Tessa's Ramblings: All rambles. All the time.

In Case You're Having Trouble...

2009-02-09T18:49:00.000-06:00

http://thefrugalshrink.blogspot.com

I've Moved...

2009-02-05T22:27:00.002-06:00

So come on over.

It's Coming...

2009-02-01T20:37:00.002-06:00

The new blog transition is almost complete. Bear with me over the next few days (making a copy of my blog is harder than I thought/have the attention span for). Very soon it will be up and running with new, regular posts!

Fractured Christmas Fun

2009-01-05T21:29:00.005-06:00

Here is a lovely self-portrait on Christmas Eve with my crutches. Yes, crutches. I also have a scooter, but I'm getting ahead of myself. About a week before Christmas Eve, I woke up with some foot pain. I ignored it, because that's how I roll. One week later, I ran to my house because it was cold outside and I noticed that my foot was hurting more. I decided to go to bed early, because I love sleeping and believe in its magical healing powers. I woke up at 3:30 am on the morning before Christmas Eve with horrible throbbing pain. Pain so bad that it made me cry, which is unusual for me. I figured that I had fractured it, so after consulting with my insurance book (yay managed care!) I found that it would be cheaper for me to go to the ER to get an x-ray than for me to go to urgent care. So I went to the ER at 4:30 am and got x-rayed. The ER doc couldn't see anything on the x-ray, but he gave me crutches and told me to stay off of it until I could visit a podiatrist.

The hospital is out of my network (again, yay managed care), so I had to find my own podiatrist referral. By the grace of God she was able to get me in the next day, on Christmas Eve. She did an exam (ow) and took more x-rays and found a fracture. I have a fractured tibial sessamoid bone, which according to my good friend the internets apparently never heals well if at all. Things are bleak, my friends. I have to stay off the stupid thing for six weeks. I am doing well at this about 75% of the time. At work and for longer distances I use a scooter thing since crutches are painful. I still use the crutches as needed, though. I can only drive very short distances and that still hurts a bit. I am definitely discouraged about the prognosis, but I am taking a bunch of vitamin C and will also start calcium this week in an effort to speed up my healing.

Did I mention that this is my very first broken bone? Pretty crazy considering that I fall down all the time...

Changes Ahead!

2009-01-01T09:55:00.002-06:00

There will be big changes coming to this blog in the next couple of months. I plan to completely relaunch in a big way and, you know, actually have regular posts. Keep watching...

New to Me Shopping Portal: Cashbaq

2008-12-17T19:48:00.004-06:00

Every time that I shop online, I try to use a shopping portal such as Ebates, Lucky Mag Rewards, or even My Points to get a percentage of my purchase back. I recently signed up for Cashbaq because you can essentially get the Entertainment Book for free if you shop through them.

I like the Entertainment Book but can't justify its price tag. For free, though, I can definitely use it enough to justify that purchase! Right now most of the Entertainment Books are going for $15 shipped. Through Cashbaq, you get a $5 bonus for signing up PLUS a $10 rebate for buying the Entertainment Book...so it is basically FREE! I won't get the check until March, but the money is already sitting in my account. And I will use Cashbaq instead of Ebates in the future if I can get a higher percentage back.

Here's my referral link if you want to give it a try, but you certainly don't need to use that to sign up.

Amazon Shoe Sale!!!!!

2008-12-15T19:41:00.001-06:00

There are a TON of great deals to be had on women's shoes at Amazon right now. Check out the link here. So far I'm abstaining. Maybe I'm turning over a new leaf...

Check Out Money-Saving Mom...

2008-12-09T20:21:00.001-06:00

She has a post on how to get a free Amazing Grace dvd here.

$6 Footstool

2008-12-02T21:06:00.002-06:00

Perfect for my bedroom!

When Bad Things Happen to Good Coupons

2008-11-23T22:05:00.004-06:00

My coupons are completely out of control and have been for months. :( It makes it very difficult to find specific coupons. Don't let this happen to you!!!!!

Have Yourself a Frugal Little Christmas

2008-11-15T12:07:00.002-06:00

It's that time again. I know that many people are on a very strict budget this year, but that doesn't mean that you can't give nice gifts for very little money. Here are some tips on how to do it:

1) Cash in those rewards points! I cashed in my MyPoints rewards and the rewards points from my credit card for Amazon gift certificates that I will use to shop for people on my list. In previous years I also cashed in those points for gift cards that I gave as gifts.

2) Use rebate money as shopping money. I'll be getting a $30+ check from Ebates soon, and I may just use that money for Christmas shopping. If you saved your rebate money all year long, you could probably accumulate quite a bit.

3) Use high dollar coupons. When you get those $10 off any purchase coupons, use them for gifts. Also remember that Walgreens has lots of gift-y items right now and they frequently put out $5/$20 purchase coupons.

4) Cash in your change jar at a Coinstar machine. You can get gift certificates from it with no service charge. Right now they are also offering a promo where you cash in $40 of change and you can get $10 in additional gift certificates by mail.

5) Use gift cards that you have received. I won a $10 gift card to a gas station at my company's health fair. That will be perfect for adding automotive things to a gift basket that I am creating.

6) Keep an eye out for free photo gifts. Nearly all of the online photo companies will offer free photo gifts this time of year- you just have to pay shipping. When I bought a digital camera, I also received a coupon for several free photo gifts. I just ordered them today and will use as Christmas gifts.

7) Keep an eye out for deals. They are EVERYWHERE right now, both online and in-store. Victoria's Secret is offering their body lotions and sprays 8/$35 right now. There is also a coupon online that you can print and get a free scrub as well. 9/$35 is a great deal and would make good small gifts.

8) Don't forget dollar stores. They have some things in stock that may surprise you and would be appropriate for gifts.

9) Give used. In my family, it is perfectly acceptable to give used DVDs and books that are in good condition. If you can find it on Paperback Swap, even better!

This season, try to think outside the (ridiculously-priced) box. Remember that one day is not worth sacrificing your finances.

Blog Hiatus

2008-11-03T19:57:00.001-06:00

I will be out of town for about a week, so posting will be even slooooooower than usual. I'll try to be better about posting when I get back...

Extra 25% Off Clearance at Marshalls

2008-10-25T17:23:00.002-06:00

Marshalls is having an extra 25% off clearance through Sunday (I think). Add to this the fact that a lot of the clearance is already cheap and you can score some great deals. I bought three shirts, one pair of capri pants, one down/feather-stuffed throw pillow, and one enormous tablecloth for $30.84.

Go forth and shop.

Duplex Pictures- Bedroom

2008-10-20T12:26:00.000-06:00

I realized that I haven't posted any room pictures since I moved from the apartment to the duplex. I have discovered that it is very difficult to take room pictures, though! :P

Here is my bed with new comforter- not frugal, about $60 from Domestications. It was so difficult to find what I wanted in the right size. There's also the Henry Link nightstands, lamps from Marshalls, and $6 vintage Nelly Littlehale Murphy print.

Henry Link standing mirror and desk. I couldn't get a good photo of the window treatment, but it is a $3 gold sheer waterfall valance that was 90% off at Kohl's.

Henry Link bureaus. Jewelry is on the top of one; I'm working on getting framed photos for the other.

Up close shot of the comforter print- it's pinker than this IRL.

Vintage $20 print from the same estate that the Henry Link furniture came from. I bought three of them- the other two are in a spare room.

Coming up tomorrow- the living room...

I Love You, MacBook

2008-10-15T19:34:00.002-06:00

Warning: This blog post may contain discussion of a nonfrugal purchase.

So. I made it all the way through grad school without a laptop. I was one of the very few people that didn't haul one to class every day. In most of my classes we were provided with PowerPoint handouts and so it wasn't necessary to have a laptop to take notes (not that I took many notes as it was). And most people just used their laptops to surf the 'net and tune out the professors.

I knew it was drawing close to time to purchase a new computer and I have been saving for a while for one. I decided to get a laptop for portability issues and because I have too much stuff taking up space. I wound up getting a MacBook because I wanted to get a computer that would last for years with fewer problems.

I love it. Love, love, love it! I've had it for about six weeks now and have mostly adjusted to the differences although I still need to read the booklet that came with it (I'm bad about that). I haven't yet transferred my files over from my PC, so I need to do that soon.

For those wondering at home, I did go through Ebates to get a percentage back from my purchase. And I also got a $100 discount and a free printer. I haven't completely lost my mind!

More Adventures in Clothing

2008-10-11T09:10:00.007-06:00

There are lots of clearance sales going on right now. It's a good time to stock up.

This was $5:

This was a bit pricier at $10, but it fit perfectly.

Cute silvery-grey shoes for $4. I was excited because I saw something similar in the window of a Banana Republic store. Now I can duplicate that outfit.

Cotton jacket with cotton lining: $7. I was excited to see the cotton lining as most are sweaty polyester.

A Trip to Staples

2008-10-08T20:15:00.002-06:00

It is no secret that I love Staples although we have had some rough patches over the past couple of years when they took away free shipping for any purchase and kept revamping their ink recycling program. Well, I am back on board! With the new Staples rewards program, you can bring in up to three ink cartridges per day (HP, Dell, or Lexmark) and you will earn $3 each in rewards. Once a quarter (I think) they will give you a rewards coupon. My coupon was for $27 this time!

I needed a memory card for my camera, so I went ahead and purchased that. I also hit up the clearance. They had a table up front with clearance where I snagged a $3 National Geographic puzzle (for the gift closet) and two .40 car folders for my nephews. My Staples also has a clearance section near the back of the store. I went to check that out and found a large expanding file that was originally $9 marked down to fifty cents! I have found similar deals at Office Depot, so make sure you check out that office supply store clearance.

A Few Graduation Photos

2008-10-06T20:22:00.008-06:00

First of all, here is my cute leopard print dress for all of you frugalites. It was $7 and the belt was $4.

Have I mentioned before that my mom laughs at me when I take pictures of my outfits in the mirror?

Before the ceremony in the ultra-flattering robe and tam.

And after being hooded and receiving my degree. I'm done!!!

Graduation Day

2008-10-04T08:08:00.003-06:00

Today is the graduation ceremony for my doctoral degree. While I have officially been "doctor" for over a month, this is the day that I have been looking forward to for eight years. I'm not sure how eight years went by so quickly (even though there were moments where they seemed to drag on forever!).

There's no way that I would've been able to get through this without the support of my family and friends. That has meant so much to me and helped to carry me through the dark times. Thanks also to my bloggy friends who have written such kind words of support over the past two years!

Finally, and most importantly, there is no way that I would have been able to accomplish this without the strength I received from my relationship with God. I knew that this was His plan for me, and that kept me going. He carried me through this entire experience.

And now, on to the celebration. :)

"That my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever." Psalm 30:12

Getting Stuck

2008-09-29T20:22:00.002-06:00

Hi, my name is Tessa and I have arthritis.

I'm 26, which in joint terms is not that old. It started when I was 17- I remember this very clearly. I took dance lessons from age 5 to age 15 and then danced on my high school dance team from age 14 to 18. If you do the math, that's 13 years of wear and tear. During my senior year, we were learning this really cool (and somewhat difficult) dance. One move involved going from a standing position to a squatting position, turning in a circle, and then coming back to a standing position. My knees started hurting a bit whenever I had to do this move, but I ignored it.

In college, I had to climb a flight of stairs every day to get to my psychology classes. That made my knees hurt, too. When I stood on my feet for long periods of time while working at a pharmacy, my knees started swelling and burning. By age 19 I was taking a Glucosamine/Chondroitin supplement daily. This helped a lot.

Within the last year, two things have happened. I have had to increase my Glucosamine dosage and my hip joints started hurting. I was not pleased. During a pain management class in grad school, I observed an acupuncturist for a day and thought I might try that in the future.

A couple of months ago, I visited my nurse practitioner. She thought I might have Rheumatoid Arthritis- the crippling, potentially disabling kind. My initial blood test came back clear and I decided to try something different. Now I am going to an acupuncturist.

People, it works!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My knee pain is GREATLY reduced. My hip pain has had less success, but I am thrilled with the results. Definitely not frugal, but 100% worth the cost. Even if I do have to lie there for 20 minutes with a bunch of needles sticking out of me. :P

Battling the Cranky

2008-09-25T13:37:00.002-06:00

I'm at home sick today, and as I've discussed before, I am not a good sick person. I am cranky and bored. My good friend Amy called me to check on me and brought me some cold medicine (the good stuff), so that warmed my bitter little heart. And is making me feel slightly strung out, but better.

Anyhoo, I am trying to entertain myself on the internets. One blog that I enjoy is Stuff Christians Like. It's in a similar vein to Stuff White People Like, but, you know, with more Jesus. It has a lot of funny stuff on it. I just laughed out loud at this post. If you've ever been to a Christian concert or heard a Christian CD that was recorded live at said concerts, you've heard that guy that screams "Jesus!". It's funny 'cause it's true.

Updating the Coupon Binder

2008-09-22T20:43:00.007-06:00

The time has come to update my coupon binder. I have had it for almost two years, and it was falling apart at the seams (literally!). It also was too small. I was able to get a new binder free after rebate and I used dividers that I already had- sometimes it pays to have an office supply addiction. The baseball card holders were fine so I just transferred them over.

Here is the front of the old binder:

Inside the old binder- it's nice and messy:

Also inside the old binder:

Here is the new PINK binder. Complete with a ClipArt decorated front cover and of course a label on the binding (not shown). Because I enjoy looking crazy.

Inside the new binder. One new thing that I have done is buy two of those zippered pencil pouches. In the front pouch, I put the coupons that I am going to use in a particular store. Then I can just grab the pouch and not have to take the whole binder with me. In the second zippered pouch I keep scissors for easy access.

The Sewage Incident: A Pointless Post

2008-09-17T20:21:00.004-06:00

Last week there was an incident at the casa de Tessa. There will be no pictures to accompany this post as I do not document disgusting-ness.

Occasionally my air conditioner unit has (supposedly) been backing up and I will have puddles on my kitchen floor and in the garage. The kitchen, garage, and ground floor bathroom are all located near each other. Last Monday, it started again. My landlord- who normally is really quick to respond- had seemingly disappeared (later I found out that he had gone out of town). By Thursday, the floor in the kitchen near the bathroom had a lot of water and I was struggling to keep up with getting towels dry enough to put down. On Friday morning, sewage started to back up in the bathroom.

I do not do well with gross things. I have serious issues with public bathrooms due to the pure disgusting-ness that lurks within. But after a few phone calls to family members and then to a plumber, all was taken care of. The plumber came within ten minutes of my phone call and had fixed the problem within ten minutes of arriving. Thank God for this going smoothly!

Of course I had to go buy a Shop Vac and then complete a five-step cleaning process: vacuum, sweep, scrub on my hands and knees, mop, and wash towels one million times until I feel they are approaching clean again. But I am getting reimbursed for the plumber costs ($60- I should have been a plumber) and all is well for the time being.

Except that now I have dreams of finding puddles in the floor. :P

Irony

2008-09-15T21:48:00.002-06:00

Here I am at age 3. I was crying because my brother (age 8 at the time) got to go to school and I didn't. I even went so far as to make up my own "Pretend School" and every day I would go off to "Pretend School" when my brother went to real school. That's about where it would end, though, because I had no idea what one actually did all day in school. I just thought it sounded very exciting.

If I had only known that I would be in school for 21 years, maybe I wouldn't have been crying.

I'm Back! With a Walgreens Post!

2008-09-13T18:17:00.004-06:00

Of all the things that I do for this blog, I find it the most amusing when I get home from a shopping trip and try to artfully arrange groceries and HBA items so that I can take a picture of them. I don't know why, but I find that pretty funny. :D

Anyhoo, as you may or may have noticed, I have been absent from this blog lately. This means that I have been absent from deal-shopping, too. When I saw the $10 off $40 coupon WG put out for yesterday and today, I decided it was time to get with it. Incidentally, those coupons are also how I typically solve the toilet paper problem. Frugal folk with easy access to CVS are ALWAYS getting free TP, but the closest CVS is an hour away. I use toilet paper as filler to get up to the required amount when WG puts out the $10 off X amount coupons.

Today's purchases and totals:
3 Quilted Northern (3 x $4)= $12.00
2 South Beach Living Cereal Bars (2 x $2.50)= $5.00
2 Crest Rinses- I had the cashier ring them up separately- (2 x $4.49)= $8.98
1 Nivea for Men Body Wash= $4.99
1 Chemistry Hair Product= $7.99
1 WG Acid Controller= $7.99
1 LypSyl Lip Moisturizer= $1.99
1 Excedrin Express Gels= $3.99
1 Revlon Nail Polish= $4.49
__________________________________________________________
Total: $57.42
- $16.00 coupons
= $41.42
- $9.00 Register Rewards generated from the Crest
= $32.42

AND I will be getting $31.44 back in rebates, so my total was .98 before tax (I paid 2.86 tax). I also got a couple of coupons that printed with my Register Rewards. One was for Glade Wisp ($3 off) and I will combine it with the $5 manufacturer's coupon whenever that goes on sale to get it for free.

Most of the stuff was free after rebate or free after Register Rewards. I thought the cereal bars were a particularly good deal as they were .50 per box after coupons.

This is why I love coupons and rebates.

Nothing to Post?

2008-09-02T20:06:00.003-06:00

Nope, nothin'. I haven't done any new and exciting frugal things lately. I'm drawing a blank...

Break

2008-08-18T19:45:00.003-06:00

Will be on a bit of a break this week as I wrap some things up with internship/work. I'm going on vacation next week at work and will post then!

The Winner!

2008-08-15T11:38:00.002-06:00

Congratulations to Chris from St. Mary's! You are the new owner of Millionaire Women Next Door. Here's the winning comment:

"I'm new to personal finance and everything I've read has been online. I don't have a favorite personal finance book because I've never read any. I've tried getting TMMO through local library, but don't want to wait forever to get to the top of the hold list. I'd like Millionaire Women Next Door to be my first."

Thanks to all for entering! I was surprised that so many said they'd never read any personal finance books. In the future I will talk more about some of my favorites.

Chris, email me at thefrugalshrink AT yahoo DOT com with your name and address and I'll get this sent out to you.

For Those With Foot Issues

2008-08-12T21:12:00.003-06:00

The expensive-but-very-comfortable-and-well-made Born brand of shoes is on sale for $30 per pair at 6pm (the shoe store, not the time). This is no $10 sale, but it is a good price for Born and those suckers will last you for years. Their boots are even on sale for $30, and they normally cost $180 and up. Worth checking out for those with problematic feet.

Book Review and Giveaway: Millionaire Women Next Door

2008-08-11T13:00:00.000-06:00

I really learned from Stanley & Danko's book The Millionaire Next Door, so when I saw this book for cheap I grabbed it. Like The Millionaire Next Door, there are definitely dry patches that you can easily skip over. However, there was still much to be gleaned.

What I learned:

1) Millionaire women have very clear goals (daily, weekly, monthly, annual, lifetime). They are more likely than their male counterparts to have these clearly defined goals.

2) Millionaire women largely have parents that set them up to succeed. Most millionaire women (not all) had parents that exhibited the following values/traits: empathy, leadership, happiness, independence, and responsiveness. These parents taught their daughters how to get along well with others, how to lead, how to be happy with where they are, how to be independent, and how to respond well to others.

3) Millionaire women began earning money at an early age. Most of these women were not the products of well-to-do parents, and their entrepreneurial spirit was evident early on.

4) Millionaire women are givers. They give a great deal to church and charity. Sometimes they give too much to family and enable their children to become economically dependent on them.

5) Millionaire women are self-employed. Sometimes they are engaged in unusual businesses. They see a need and figure out how to fill it and fill it well. Top earning careers for these women are management and consulting.

As with all of the Millionaire books, I think the most interesting part are the individual case studies. It's pretty interesting to see why people become what they become.

Want your own copy? I snagged an extra off of Paperback Swap to give to one of my readers. Leave a comment below telling me what your favorite personal finance book is and you will be entered into this giveaway. I'll draw a winner on Friday. Open to all in the U.S.

So I'm Really Going to Graduate

2008-08-06T22:39:00.004-06:00

Today I picked up a belated birthday gift from one of my friends. It is a beautiful red leather portfolio, and on the front there is a plate that she had engraved with "Dr. Mylastname." Looking at that engraved plate is the strangest experience for me. Even though I have written "Dr. Mylastname" about a thousand times before just to see how it would look. ;)

Also today I picked up some white 100% cotton bond paper for free at Staples (used my rewards certificate) to print my dissertation on. I've had to make a few minor changes following the defense, but it looks like I will be ready to print and turn in the required copies in the next week or so.

Both of these incidences were very clear reminders that I am getting ready to graduate with my doctorate. This is not something that my brain has accepted yet. I will be done with my internship at the end of August and will officially have the doctorate September 1st, although my graduation ceremony isn't until October. I have been focused on this goal since I was 17 and I have just been running as fast and as hard as I can since that time trying to get to where I am now.

Now here I am at the finish line, and I don't quite know what to do with myself. It's definitely a happy thing, but something that is going to take some time for me to wrap my head around.

Bulk Food Stores

2008-08-04T09:00:00.000-06:00

I love bulk food stores! There is a new-ish bulk food store in my hometown that I recently visited for the first time. There were tons of great deals, but I limited myself to just a few things. I picked up some powdered milk, natural peanut butter, carob chips, lentils, and chocolate covered pretzels (for the ride home ;) ). If I were more organized, I would preplan out a month's worth of menus and do more shopping in bulk. Unfortunately I will have to make do with the little organization that I currently manage.

I Have Plans...

2008-08-03T13:00:00.000-06:00

...and they will probably go horribly, horribly wrong. Much like the Great Tomato-Plant Murders of 2007. But I have to keep trying, right?

Deal Alert: $9.99 Shoes at ShoeTrader

2008-08-02T12:38:00.007-06:00

ShoeTrader has a bunch of shoes on sale right now for $9.99 with free shipping and free returns. Use code 943706 if the prices don't show up correctly in your cart. There is no good way to sort the items, so be prepared to be frustrated. However, if you have the patience there are some cute things in the midst of some frankly hideous stuff.

I'm trying to stop buying unreasonably tall and/or uncomfortable shoes due to joint problems. I've been getting rid of my unreasonable shoes but let me tell you it is no easy task to find cute low-heeled shoes!!

Here's what I bought:

Green linen sling back sandals- originally $35:

Sofft (love this brand for comfort!) leather sandals- originally $70:

Black leather sandals- originally $60:

Boring but functional leather loafers in tan and black- originally $40 each:

Original total: $245

Paid: $50 shipped

Not bad.

Vintage Purse

2008-08-01T06:47:00.004-06:00

I found this cute little vintage purse at a flea market last weekend. It's in great shape and was $7. Look at how the clasp is on the handle- I've not seen that before. The print lining and inner metal zipper are also indicators of its age. And how cute is that lining!

The New Staples Ink Rewards Program: I Like You Better. I Think.

2008-07-30T13:00:00.000-06:00

I have been quiet about my beloved Staples lately since they have taken away nearly every perk that kept me shopping there. They even changed their ink recycling policy, and I wasn't sure that I even understood it. So I waited to report back.

And I'm pretty sure I like it better than before! Basically, you can take in three ink cartridges (Dell, HP, or Lexmark) per day and they will periodically mail you one coupon for all of the ink cartridges that you've redeemed. I like it better because I could potentially save up and have quite a large coupon to spend at one time.

The downside is that I'm not frequently near a Staples store anymore, so I will have to carefully plan on recycling cartridges when I'm in the area. I have been saving ink cartridges in the trunk of my car until I could be sure that I wanted to continue with the Staples program, so I guess it's time to start recycling!

Library Book Store Guilt

2008-07-29T18:48:00.002-06:00

I love, love, love the library book store in my tiny hometown. Rather than having a yearly or twice yearly sale, the "friends of the library" open up this little book store one day a week for a few hours. I go once every month or two and buy a bunch. Because I love hearing my friends and family complain about having to lift 52,341 heavy boxes of books every time that I move.

Anyhoo, prices are cheap. The lady working at the store (incidentally, she was my first-grade teacher) tried to charge me $4 for this stack. "How about $5?" I asked, feeling guilty for spending so little and getting so much. Then I just gave her a ten and told her to keep it. I am terrified that they will close this place down, so I try to donate something extra every time that I'm there. Also, I seem to be the kiss of death for stores. If I love it, it will close.

So I say keep the change as long as you keep your doors open and let me feed my addiction.

Recent Cheapie Clothes Buys

2008-07-27T13:00:00.007-06:00

I have been finding a lot of good clothing deals lately. Here's some of my recent purchases!

Bitten by Sarah Jessica Parker suit- $8.98 per piece at Steve & Barry's. I was in need of a suit since I've lost weight and none of mine fit me right now. It's even a wool blend! Jacket is lined but skirt isn't- it definitely needs a slip underneath.

Banana Republic jacket- originally $148. Was $27.xx on sale and I had a $15 off coupon. Paid about $13. Did I tell you guys that I am going to be presenting at a national conference in November? Whoo hoo! So this is a legitimate purchase for that occasion. Ahem.

Rue 21 short-sleeved jacket- $5. This store has great clearance- I don't ever pay more than $5 here. Their stuff is not wonderfully made, but you will definitely get your $2-$5 out of it. I recently also got a cute red button-down shirt for $5. Their jewelry clearance is $3 and less.

Cato skirt- $5. It's fully lined!

Express skirt- originally $69.50, paid about $7. It has pockets! I *love* pockets on dresses and skirts!

Cato shoes- paid $4. I don't buy a lot of cheapie shoes, but these were too cute to pass up!

And the winner is...

2008-07-26T17:48:00.002-06:00

Beachnerd! Here is her winning entry:

Wow Dr. Tessa, this is a generous offer! I was flying home from a business conference and tried a friend's ipod. I declared right then and there that I want one for my birthday. Ok: I'm frugal when I make homemade pizza or salads for dinner and then use our bogo Dairy Queen coupons after seeing the free big band music on the weekends for our "date out". I'm not frugal when my daughter has the same day off of work as me. Then we go to lunch wherever she wants to go, mostly because it doesn't happen that often.

Her entry was randomly selected through one of those internet number generator thingamajigs, not just 'cause she called me Dr. Tessa and that made me smile. ;)

I have so enjoyed reading all of your entries! It is really interesting to see what is important to each of you. To be honest, I did this contest in part to make some of you comment here for the first time! I can "see" the number/location of the people who visit, but I wanted to know who you guys are. Thanks to all who commented and entered the contest.

Beachnerd, email me at thefrugalshrink AT yahoo DOT com with your name, address, what color Ipod shuffle you want, and what you would like to have engraved on it. Congratulations! :D

This Week's Walgreens Trip

2008-07-22T20:34:00.002-06:00

I'm ashamed to admit that it had been weeks since I'd hit up WG. None of the deals have looked too tempting and I've been busy, so that means no shopping. You should see my hideous pile of unorganized coupons. Terrible.

Anyhoo, this week's deals:
Therabreath Starter Kit 9.99 (will be FAR)
Dawn dish soap .49 (used a .50 manufacturer's coupon)
Air freshener 1.50 for two (used a BOGOF coupon- not a great price, but my stockpile is low)
Reynolds wrap .34 (used a .55 manufacturer's coupon)
Nature Made Vitamins 9.99 (will be FAR)
Sandwich baggies .99 (needed these)
Scotch tape 3/1.00 (remember my traumatic no-name tape story?)
Pilot 2-pack of pens 1.00 (will be FAR)
3 packs of Papermate mechanical pencils .15 total
Chocolate bar .99 (will be FAR)

Total spent after taxes (I used a previous WG gift card): $28.32.
Total that I will get back in rebates: $24.16 (including the 10% bonus)
Total spent: $4.16

Also, I told myself that this would be the year that I would stay away from the school supply deals. I'm still trying to get rid of/use up supplies from two stinkin' years ago. However, the siren song of .05 packs of pencils was too much for me to handle. It is a sickness, I tell you! One that apparently runs in my family- not that I'm blaming anyone. ;)

Ipod Shuffle Giveaway!

2008-07-21T21:04:00.000-06:00

Let me tell you about my Ipod shuffle.

For many years, I have guffawed at how everyone had to have an mp3 player, let alone one made by Apple. I should just never open my mouth.

For my birthday (June 4th), my mom offered to get me a shuffle. I thought that sounded good, since I could use it when I exercised. Since that time, I have had an ongoing love affair with this tiny thing, except for one traumatic incident where I accidentally threw away the headphones. People, it makes *everything* better!! Need some motivation for exercising? Ipod shuffle. Hate doing chores around the house? Ipod shuffle. Want to tune out your children/spouse/boss? Ipod shuffle.

I love it so much that I am going to pony up the money for one of you to have one. All you have to do is leave a comment telling me one way that you are frugal and one way that you aren't. I will randomly draw a winner on Saturday. Make sure your comment includes some way that I can reach you. This is open to anyone in the U.S., including people that I know in real life and/or relatives. 'Cause I totally believe in nepotism.

Go!

Coming next week...

2008-07-19T20:16:00.002-06:00

...a fun giveaway/contest.

What could it be???

Neglect

2008-07-16T21:31:00.003-06:00

I know, Internets. I've been neglecting you. You thought we had an agreement, right? I would try to post more often. And that is my intent, it's just that some weeks are so busy. Lately everything has been busy (in a good way!). I promise (for real this time) that I will get back with it in the next couple of days.

XOXO,

Tessa

How to Turn a $25 Giftcard Into $30

2008-07-07T18:46:00.004-06:00

ALWAYS check and see if there are coupons out there for the stores that you have giftcards from! My friend Beth gave me a Kohl's giftcard for my birthday, and I knew that there was a $5 coupon out there just for signing up for their email list. I wanted to get some bedding or other house-y stuff. After browsing through the store, I found a set of sheets for 50% off ($24.99) and a gold waterfall valance at 90% off that is perfect for my bedroom window ($2.90). After tax, I got .45 back in change. :P So use those coupons to stretch your savings, even with giftcards.

For No Good Reason

2008-07-07T18:40:00.003-06:00

But I laugh hysterically every time I see this. :P

Henry Link Furniture Photos

2008-07-01T20:33:00.007-06:00

Please excuse the terrible photos- these pictures do not do justice to how beautiful this furniture is! I have all of the above pieces + one more nightstand and a standing mirror. I'll try to take better pictures soon in the daylight.

This is all vintage late 1950s/early 1960s Henry Link furniture. It's HEAVY wood with dove tailed corners and the Henry Link name is etched inside some of the drawers. It is all an antique white color with gold trim. The coolest thing about it is that it came with the original catalog and sales receipt! As a person that loves old things much better than new things, it is a dream to find so many pieces in perfect condition. I visited this set in an antique store several times over the course of two months in deciding whether to buy it. I was able to negotiate about 20% off the price, but it still wasn't frugal!!!!! :D

Menu Plan

2008-06-29T18:56:00.002-06:00

Banana bread and banana/chocolate chip bread.

I have really fallen off the bandwagon lately when it comes to food. I have been neglecting meal planning and eating out waaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay too much. So here I go again.

Meals this week:

Breakfast- 1/2 bagel with natural peanut butter and organic skim milk (I have this every day)

Lunches/Dinners- Baked Mexican chicken casserole (already made), crockpot pizza, burritos, cereal, and I have a few single portions from previous meals frozen if I get bored or need other options (chicken carbonara, spinach enchiladas)

Fruit/Veggies- green beans, carrots, oranges, bananas

Dessert- chocolate chip oatmeal cookies (already made)

Passed!

2008-06-29T12:02:00.002-06:00

I passed my dissertation defense!! I do have to add in a few more paragraphs to clarify some info, but the worst is behind me. I was SO nervous all of last week. Normally I get "good" nervous before presentations- the kind that helps you perform well. But last week I was "bad" nervous- the kind that makes your mind go blank and/or makes you vomit. Thankfully, none of those things happened. ;)

When I complete my internship at the end of August, I will officially be Dr. Tessa!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Recent Free Stuff

2008-06-25T22:00:00.002-06:00

* Did anyone else use that great Target coupon that was $5 any 3 Band-Aids (also some other brands like Stayfree, etc.)? I automatically read the fine print on any such coupon to see if I can get something for free. Sure enough, if I could find Band-Aids cheap enough I could get 3 boxes for free. And I did. Which is a really good thing because I was almost out of Band-Aids and I am, shall we say, accident prone. I tend to cut myself frequently on things like scissors, razors, and cheese graters. True story.

* Also, a few years ago I signed up while at Goodwill for their birthday club. For the past three years they have sent me a $5 off any purchase coupon, which I used to get some free (new in package) wrapping paper.

Big News

2008-06-23T20:14:00.001-06:00

This Friday I will defend my doctoral dissertation. I really hope it goes well. :D

$5 Skirt

2008-06-18T21:05:00.003-06:00

I recently had a $10 off any purchase coupon for taking a survey for Van Heusen, which is a good thing because suddenly all of my clothes are falling off of me. I scoped out the store with the intention of getting something for free but they weren't having any super duper sales. In the back I found this skirt marked down to $14.99 from something like $36. I tried it on and loved it, so I got it for $5.12 after tax. I also tried on this really fabulous dress that looked vintage-y but would've still been $40 after coupon. And it was a black and white print and I don't need another black and white dress. Luckily my cheapskate side won out and I left it on the rack.

This ramble brought to you by Tessa's Ramblings. All rambles, all the time.

I'm Baaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaack!!!!!!

2008-06-18T21:02:00.003-06:00

Well, the move was successful although I still have a little bit of stuff that I need to move over from the apartment. I am now in a town house/duplex and it is FABULOUS. It is more rent than I was paying but it is worth every stinkin' penny.

I am still unpacking and cleaning, so pictures will have to wait. In exciting purchase news, I bought most of a vintage Henry Link bedroom set. I had intended to put it in my spare bedroom but then decided that I wanted it for myself. Pictures of that are forthcoming!

Moving...

2008-06-07T17:37:00.001-06:00

I'm in the process of moving and posting will be spotty over the next week or so. I will return with lots of pictures and new posts!

What I Did With the $10/$30 WG Coupon

2008-06-03T18:53:00.002-06:00

Last Friday Walgreens had a one day $10 off any $30 purchase coupon. June's free after rebate (FAR) items also happened to start that day. I had several scenarios in mind, but WG was out of stock on some items that I wanted to get. Here's what I wound up getting with the coupon:

* Water filter cartridge 6.99 (FAR)
* Ecotrin 2.00 (FAR)
* WG Calcium 5.99 (FAR)
* WG Glucoshot 1.99 (FAR)
* Excedrin 1.99 x 2 = 3.98
* Theragran vitamins 4.99 (FAR)
* Quilted Northern TP 4.00 x 2 = 8.00

Subtotal: 33.94
-10.00 WG coupon
-6.00 Manufacturer's coupons
______________
17.94
+ 1.30 tax
______________
$19.24 Which I put on a WG giftcard, of course. AND I will get $24.15 back in rebates.

Let me recap: I spent $19.24 and will get $24.15 back. And I didn't technically even *spend* the $19.24 since I used a WG giftcard.

This is why I love Walgreens.

Raking in the Freebies- Birthday Style

2008-06-01T18:36:00.003-06:00

As my 26th birthday rapidly approaches (June 4th), I'm finding that my inbox is filling up with freebie offers. Yay! Last year, I went to the Slickdeals freebie forum and signed up for several offers on their birthday freebie list. I'm only planning on using those that are completely free, not those that require that I buy something else (I'm looking at you, Dairy Queen and Fuddruckers!!!). Here are some of the deals that I have received so far:
* Free Love It size Signature Creation at Coldstone Creamery
* Free Bath & Shower Bubbles at Sephora
* $5 off a meal at McAlister's
* Free Gourmet Burger from Red Robin

I've also received a $15 off any purchase coupon from Banana Republic (I have a store card) and was told that I should receive a similar offer from Brooks Brothers since I have a store card there, too.

Action Shots for the Ivy Fans

2008-05-28T20:56:00.006-06:00

Perched on her favorite spot by the window:
Yawning:

Snooping while I am trying to stage a cereal photo shoot:

Coupon Myths Article

2008-05-28T20:51:00.001-06:00

If you're new to couponing or are thinking about starting, read this article.

How to Do a Stupid Budget

2008-05-26T16:07:00.003-06:00

If you're reading this blog, it's probably because you like saving money (or because you're one of my family members. One of the two.). I hate to break it to you, but a budget is CRUCIAL to saving money. I know, I know, I hate them, too. This will never be the most exciting thing that you do, but it may be the most important thing for your financial life. Money has a way of slipping through your fingers when each dollar does not have an assigned purpose. Here's a very painless way to start budgeting:

1) Write a budget every month- do not try to make one budget for a whole year. Some of your expenses are fixed and won't change from month to month (rent, insurance, etc.) but many things will change monthly. For example, in May I had to get an oil change and in June I will get a haircut. In June I will also need to have extra in the budget to get my dissertation bound. These are not fixed expenses, and if I used a yearly budget I would not have the money available.

2) Go grab your checkbook. You will use this to determine what your budget categories are and to take an average of what you spent in each category last year. Some suggested categories are housing, grocery, restaurant, entertainment, insurance, auto, clothing, medical, pet needs, gifts, savings/investments, miscellaneous, and debt. You will probably have more categories as you figure out where your funds go.

3) Use the IRS Withholding Calculator to determine what your tax responsibility will be.

4) Use an online budget calculator to give you a place to start. I like the Crown Financial calculator.

5) Print off your budget and tweak the categories and percentages until they work for you. Every dollar needs to have a "home" that it goes to. If you have extra money, it needs to go to your debt or to savings.

6) Decide if you want to use cash or if you're okay using checks. Cash is easier since you can put the assigned amount in an envelope and you can easily tell how much remains in that category. If you are diligent, checks/debit card can work for you as long as you carefully note how much is going out from each category.

7) Evaluate the budget at the end of the month. What worked and what did not? Keep these things in mind as you write your budget for the next month.

I admit that I have never been great at following a strict budget. I am determined to change this as I prepare to pay down my student loan debt. I don't want money being frittered away when it could go to my good friend Sallie Mae. Or to her cousin Citibank.

Donna Freedman

2008-05-21T19:56:00.002-06:00

Lately I have really been enjoying the writings of Donna Freedman over at MSN Money. I remember a while back when they profiled her very frugal living, and I recently found that she had been hired to write. If you have time, check it out.

Freebie: Nature Made Vitamins Samples

2008-05-21T19:46:00.002-06:00

The very wonderful Lisa, who works for Nature Made, emailed me to give me a heads up about this freebie. You can request a fourteen day supply of your favorite liquid softgel vitamin here.

Here's my Nature Made plug:
I have an unholy love for Nature Made vitamins. This is because I can purchase them at a buy-one-get-one free sale at (surprise!) Walgreens AND use coupons AND "bank" wellness rewards points. Those points add up and then they send you great $5 or $7 coupons in the mail. This means I get vitamins for very cheap.

Thanks, Lisa!

Cereal Coming Out of My Ears

2008-05-19T20:46:00.004-06:00

I went to Wal-Mart last Friday and got this stuff free after internet coupon (nosy cat not included). The Scrubbing Bubbles was a manufacturer's rebate, though, which I have already sent in. I also got Silk Soymilk for .75 per carton. After that, I went to Walgreens and bought four more boxes of cereal for .50 each after coupons and Register Rewards. Guess what I'll be eating for a while?

How to Make Your Cashier Like You (or at least not run away screaming)

2008-05-16T20:46:00.002-06:00

If you have used coupons for any length of time, you will know that cashiers generally do not like you. We can potentially cause a lot of extra work for them, and sometimes they think you're trying to do something illegal. I have heard all sorts of horror stories on the web about cashiers and coupons, but I have had generally good experiences. Here is what I do to make it easier on both of us.

1) Shop slowly. Make sure that you select the correct item for the coupon that you're trying to use. This is not the time to rush through the store.
2) Carefully select your cashier. If you're at Wal-Mart or Target, you probably have a bunch to choose from. If you're at Walgreens, not so much (at WG, check out at the makeup counter if possible). Look for someone who appears pleasant, not too tired, and fairly competent. If
3) Approach with pleasant-ness. I'm going to be honest here- I'm a pretty happy person and it shows (as a reference, I generally don't make people want to vomit, but they do sometimes laugh at my optimism). Because of this, it is much easier for me to make nice with people since it is genuine. However, large stores with bunches of people make me cranky, so even I have to fake it sometimes. Greet your cashier very happily and tell them immediately that you have coupons. Ask them where they want you to place the coupons and do so. Gently remind them when they try to "forget" to enter them in.
4) Use your coupons properly. Don't try to pull a fast one. Comply with store and manufacturer's policies, and never do something like copy coupons or try to slip the wrong product or an expired coupon past a cashier. If you do, you make all of us look bad and make it that much harder for couponers to be seen as legit. You also can be banned from stores.
5) Be polite but firm. If you're using your coupons legally and within the limits of the store's coupon policy, then request a manager. It helps to carry a copy of the store's coupon policy with you. You can email Target and get their policy, and Wal-Mart has their coupon policy here. Once I had a cashier at Target tell me something that I knew wasn't true and I politely but firmly corrected her. She didn't like it, but she did honor the policy.
6) Recognize the great cashiers! Take the time to tell their managers how easy they made your life. The cashiers that enjoy talking to me and don't mind my coupon use (or even look forward to it!) have my devotion for life.

Happy couponing!

Earning Free Gift Cards

2008-05-14T21:33:00.003-06:00

Have you heard of My Points? I've been a member for a couple of years now and have earned multiple gift cards. All you have to do is just click on a website link in their emails and you will earn 5 points. You can try their offers or use them as a shopping portal and earn points, too, but I think the best/easiest way is to just click on the email links and earn 5 points each.

If you do want to try their offers and such, I'd recommend getting an additional email address as they will submit your email address to the company that is offering the deal. If you plan to just click on the 5 points links, then it's safe to use your primary email address. I've been a member for 2+ years and have yet to see an increase in spam.

Right now I have 3,410 points. I normally save up enough points for a $10 gift card, get impatient, and cash them in. This time I'm saving up to see how long I can go before going crazy. ;) This takes at most one minute out of each day. Go earn some FREE gift cards!

New to Me Freebie: Redbox DVD Rentals!

2008-05-12T20:35:00.002-06:00

I've known about Redbox for a while. You've probably seen the machines outside of McDonald's and some grocery stores. Basically you can rent DVDs for $1 per night. One nice thing about Redbox is that they often offer FREE rental codes. It's my understanding that you just go to the machine, enter the code, and rent your movie for free. This has never meant much to me since I didn't have a machine nearby. Now I do!!!!!!! To get your first free code, go to their website and click on the get a free rental link.

Your Burning Questions Answered!

2008-05-10T07:15:00.003-06:00

Q: Why do you do all this frugal stuff?
A: Well, for one thing I find it to be really fun. I am a competitive sort of gal, and so I'm competing against myself to get the best deal on everything. I also have a jillion dollars in student loan debt that will go into repayment in October. I am not willing to have that hanging over my head for 20+ years.

Q: How did you get started doing all of this stuff?
A: I lived at home throughout grad school and really wanted to help out in some way financially since I felt like a freeloader. Unfortunately, I mostly had no income. I started printing coupons online for groceries, but was only saving a few dollars per shopping trip. One day I was standing in line and the man in front of me saved something like $18 on his one bag of groceries. I figured there had to be a better way to save, and so I started googling and found blogs and websites that explained how to shop better.

Q: Yeah, it sounds great, but who has the time to do it?
A: If you have debt and/or are just tired of paying too much money for things, then you don't have the money to not do it. I work forty hours a week and am finishing a doctoral dissertation, so I know what you're talking about. At first it will take some time to figure things out, but as you get more practiced it doesn't take any time at all. And there are websites out there that will tell you the best deals each week.

Q: How do I get started with grocery/toiletry savings?
A:
1) Buy a newspaper every Sunday and save all of the coupons. Some people prefer using a coupon clipping service so that they can get multiple coupons for particular items. I don't do this because, frankly, I do not NEED forty-seven automatic air fresheners for free. One or two is enough for me. I am in favor of getting extra stuff and donating it, but I am NOT in favor of clearing out the shelves for pure greediness. Don't do that. If you have a large family, you may need to pick up multiple papers. Walgreens sells the Sunday paper for .99, which is the cheapest price I've run across. Another good source for coupons is All You magazine, available by subscription or at Wal-Mart.
2) Check out the Walgreens ad on Sunday and try to match your coupons to the sales. Better yet, go to Pinching Your Pennies or Money Saving Mom and let them do the work for you. Both sites will tell you what is a good deal and what coupons to use!
3) When your weekly grocery store ad comes out (usually Sunday or Wednesday), apply the same principle. If it is a national chain, chances are that some place on the internet will tell you what the good deals are. Or you can use Coupon Mom.
4) Don't forget stores like Aldi and Save a Lot for basic inexpensive food needs. I *love* Aldi and do much of my grocery shopping there. I cook mostly from scratch and don't use a lot of prepackaged foods, so I don't wind up using a ton of coupons on grocery items. Save a Lot does take coupons, though.
5) CVS has a lot of great deals in the form of their Extra Care Bucks (ECB) program. I can't explain this program to you because I don't use it, but Money Saving Mom lists the good deals each week.

Q: How do I save money on clothing?
A:
1) First of all, brainwash yourself into NEVER paying full price for clothing. I *rarely* ever pay full price for anything and if I do it is usually some kind of comfortable, orthopedic-ish shoe. There are good deals to be found everywhere, you just have to look for them.
2) Don't be a snob. Once you learn how to spot a well-made garment, then you can shop anywhere. I'm not gonna lie, though, I still buy cheap little items that will just last a season. But when they cost me $7 or less, I feel okay doing that.
3) Some people find great deals on clothing at yard sales and thrifts, but I unfortunately do not. That's okay. Once again, there are deals to be had everywhere.
4) If you shop online, make sure you use a shopping portal/rebates program such as Ebates. Shopping rebates programs such as Ebates, Fat Wallet, Lucky Mag Rewards, etc., give you a percentage of your purchase price back. I use both Ebates and Lucky Mag Rewards. (If you would like a referral to Ebates, sign up using this link and we will both get a $10 bonus. I don't care if you don't use my link, just make sure you sign up with some sort of shopping portal so that you save money!!!).
5) ALWAYS search for a printable coupon if you're shopping in-store or a coupon code if you're shopping online. Also sign up for email from stores that you frequent. I get a lot of coupons and coupon codes this way.

KY3 Interview Link

2008-05-08T10:04:00.003-06:00

For my bloggy friends that don't know what I am talking about, I present to you the link to my KY3 interview here. I look/act a little goofy, but overall I think it is a good piece. I really hope it inspires people to save more money! And how exciting to be interviewed for something that I enjoy doing. :)

Link to the article here, but I want to preface this by saying that I DO NOT look as goofy as I do in the still shot that they used to accompany the article. It will be surprising to no one that they caught me with my mouth open. ;)

Welcome KY3 Watchers...

2008-05-07T06:03:00.002-06:00

...and welcome to the land of frugal living. This blog has been a bit boring lately- for the good stuff, you can start in the archives. Also click on the Frugal Blogroll button on the right- there are many great frugal living blogs listed that are much more interesting than mine. You will find that frugality is practiced on a continuum, with a wide range of variation between how frugal people are. Start small and enjoy the journey!

Walgreens Rebates- Submit Online!

2008-05-02T10:14:00.001-06:00

Hallelujah! You can now FINALLY submit your Walgreens rebates online! I just went and submitted last month's rebate and it was really easy. Check it out here.

Good News on the Dissertation Front

2008-04-28T19:54:00.002-06:00

I finally met with my dissertation committee chairperson the other day, and the news was good! She seems to think I will be able to defend my dissertation in early June. She gave me changes to work on, but they are all "do-able". I will still have to get changes from my committee member, though. For me to graduate in October, my diss has to be defended, bound, signed, and to the registrar by July 31st. It looks like I will make it with plenty of time to spare.

So I may actually graduate after all. ;)

The Little Sears Giftcard That Could

2008-04-21T19:34:00.002-06:00

A month or so ago, I got a free $5 giftcard from Sears in the mail. I can't remember why- I either signed up for email or I did a survey. Anyway, while at the mall last week I decided to go see what I could spend it on. I found the cute sale priced cuff bracelet and earrings above and thought I had taken care of the giftcard. Well, the jewelry was half off AND buy one get one free. So I went back again and got the necklace and clear beaded bracelet and...........

I still have $2 left on the giftcard. I guess that's what they call better than free. ;)

More for Your Rebate

2008-04-14T19:00:00.002-06:00

Manufacturer's rebates are a great thing, right? Free products with just a little work (Yes, just a little work. Seriously.). Watch your coupons and sales and you can get even more. Here's how:

1) Combine a buy-this-get-that-free sale with a rebate. Walgreens recently had certain razors on sale and you could get a free shave gel for buying the razor. I had manufacturer's rebates for the razors. So I got two free razors and two free shave gels for the cost of tax.

2) Combine buy-one-get-one-free coupons with a rebate. A couple of months ago I had a buy-one-get-one-free coupon for Glade candles. I also had a Glade candle manufacturer's rebate, so I got two for the cost of tax.

Next time you find a good rebate, wait a little while until you buy the item. Keep an eye on the sale ads and you might get an even better deal. My free stuff stockings idea was a hit at Christmas, so I'm keeping my eyes open and trying to find all the freebies that I can.

Retail vs. Resale: Give Regular Stores a Chance!

2008-04-11T14:07:00.005-06:00

Cute li'l top I bought for $3 at Marshall's.

At the risk of being thrown out of the frugal blogging community, I've decided to share thoughts on clothes purchasing. I love thrift shops and yard sales. LOVE. But not for clothes. Now, that doesn't mean that I don't give it a try. I have zero problems with secondhand clothing if I could find some that I like. And that, my frugal friends, is the problem. I am a picky wearer of clothing. Gasp! And much of what is available to me secondhand is not to my taste.

I want to make the argument that you CAN find clothes frugally in retail stores. For example, in the last six months I have purchased lined wool pants for $5, sundresses for $3, casual tops for $3 and under, and so on. These were all on sale racks in regular stores. You just have to know where and how to shop.

Stores with some of the best sales for cheap cheap cheap:

1) J.C. Penney- wait until they have green clearance stickers

2) Express- wait until their clearance is an additional % off

3) Marshalls and T.J. Maxx- depending on location; some get hit worse than others

4) Rue 21- you'll have to look past the navel-baring tops and pregnancy-smock looking tops to the normal-looking items on the clearance racks

5) Old Navy- wait until there is an extra % off of clearance

6) Outlet malls (seriously!)- go straight to the clearance racks, and make sure you check online for printable coupons before you go.

7) Target- look at their 75% off racks

8) For the occasional pricier buy, I like J. Crew sales (wait for an additional 20% off clearance AND a free shipping code) and Neiman Marcus Last Call Clearance (wait for a free shipping code). I assure you, these are occasional. ;)

I also sign up for mailing lists to favorite stores and have two store credit cards that offer free shipping, gift cards, and gifts on my birthday. Several times a year I get $10 off any purchase coupons for J.C. Penney. I'm also going to get a similar coupon from Van Heusen for taking a survey.

This doesn't mean that I will stop searching through thrift store racks any time soon. Sometimes they yield great stuff, like a recent Liz Claiborne no-iron cotton button down for seventy-five cents. If you can't seem to find those deals as often as you'd like, start stepping into retail stores. You might be surprised at what you find.

Express Sale

2008-04-04T08:17:00.002-06:00

Right now Express is offering an additional 20% off their clearance. This is the time to shop there!!! I bought three button down shirts that were plain colors (I have too many patterns) for $7.99 each. They are a cotton/poly/spandex blend and have a beautiful cut (long, good button placement aka no gaps, wide cuffs, darting to make it fitted, etc.). Express' woven shirts hold up well, but beware of their knits which tend to pill after washing.

Second Nature

2008-04-02T20:50:00.003-06:00

For the last few months, I've felt like I've been experiencing burn out when it comes to thinking of new frugal topics to write about. Then I wondered- have I stopped living frugally? I couldn't remember doing frugal things each day.

I still shop at Aldi for groceries, get free stuff at Walgreens (like above), use rebates and coupons regularly, send off for freebies, use free gift cards, use cloth napkins instead of paper towels, use cloth grocery bags instead of buying bags at Aldi, stock up when there's a sale on frequently used items, use a prepaid cell phone, take old ink cartridges to Staples for $3 coupons, take advantage of Walgreens' free ink cartridge refill days and occasional free photos, get free CDs from Swap a CD and free books from Paperback Swap, etc.

I realized then that the reason I can't remember doing frugal things daily is because this frugal way of life has become second nature. I don't have to think about it as much because I have done it for so long that these habits have become permanent.

That makes me happy. :)

Draft!

2008-04-01T22:18:00.004-06:00

I've finally finished a complete draft on my dissertation. Now I'm just waiting back to hear from the chairperson of my committee so that I can meet with her and begin revisions.

Yay! I should be back up and blogging more regularly soon.

2008-03-23T18:32:00.001-06:00

Interrupting Blogging Break

2008-03-21T21:19:00.002-06:00

I am still working like crazy on my stupid dissertation, but I thought I'd pop in to discuss my Easter plans.

For the first time EVER, I am hosting some of my family for Easter dinner! It will be four people, which is smaller than the usual gathering because my brother and SIL's family go to her mom's for Easter. So I am considering this my test run and my family members are my guinea pigs. Yay guinea pigs! Now, I have been waiting to host something for many, many years. I am very excited about this. I have already utilized my handy dandy guide on folding napkins into fancy shapes and have folded my "company" (aka nice and unstained) napkins into lilies. Be afraid. Be very afraid.

Now, this is not necessarily a frugal venture. I picked random recipes that sound and/or taste good, I did not base my recipe pickin' on price. These dishes don't particularly match each other, either, but I think it will be good.

On the menu:
A very yummy and easy chicken and rice dish
A variation of Pioneer Woman's Olive Cheese Bread
Green salad
Pioneer Woman's Apple Dumplings with ice cream

Still to do:
Sweep and mop floors
Pick up the spare room
Take out the trash
Move another table into kitchen
Do some cookin'
Work on stupid dissertation (oh, wait- that's every day)

:)

Busy Busy

2008-03-11T20:54:00.002-06:00

I haven't gone away forever, I promise. I'm just trying like mad to get a rough draft of my dissertation done. Because I fully intend on graduating in October...

Just Thought You Should Know

2008-03-08T21:34:00.001-06:00

Best Pizza Crust Ever

2008-03-03T18:16:00.004-06:00

From the More with Less Cookbook, pg. 142:

Combine in large bowl:
1 c. warm water
1 pkg. yeast

When dissolved, add:
1 T. sugar
1.5 t. salt
2 T. vegetable oil
1.25 c. flour

Beat until smooth. Add:
2 c. additional flour, or enough to make stiff dough. Knead until elastic, about five minutes. Place in greased bowl and let rise until double, about 45 minutes. Form 2 balls. Pat and stretch to fill 2 greased pizza pans. Let rise ten minutes.

This is seriously the best crust. I use it over and over again!

More Investing Fun!

2008-02-28T22:37:00.004-06:00

I am now the proud owner of 28 shares of something and I'm up $5.57 on my initial investment. Whoo hoo! :D I am sure that will plummet rapidly with all the Fed interest rate cuts.

Who knew that investing and saving could be so fun???

Email from Mom: Frugal and (Crafty!) Curtains

2008-02-26T19:48:00.005-06:00

Dear Daughter,

Just as Scarlet O'Hara pulled down a fabulous curtain to make herself a dress- with the same spirit, I made curtains from a tablecloth. I love these colors and had been looking at fabric for quite a while - wanting to make curtains for the family room. But the fabrics I found were too expensive. My personal challenge has always been to make something for nothing and to make it beautiful.

I wasn't even looking for it, but there it was -a tablecloth -double sided with the dark rich colors I had been looking for on one side and a beautiful stripe on the other. It was 100% cotton (looks like linen) and best of all 102" x 60" for $7.50. I knew I could take this wonderful fabric and make curtains for my family room - except there was not enough fabric for the entire project. To shorten the story- after much searching I found another package - the same reversible oblong tablecloth.

From this fabric I made one curtain (two panels) for a single window, one panel for the double door, a small valance on the double door, and I have enough to cover two throw pillows. I hemmed the panels in a way that I can use either side when the mood strikes. I am thrilled and the project -both curtains, valance and pending pillows will be $15.00 plus tax. A couple of hours and I have a new look to my room. They warm up the room and best of all they are MY creation.

Love you,
Mom

This Is Why I Like Couponing

2008-02-24T20:13:00.004-06:00

From Walgreens:

1 Chapstick Naturals
1 Clean & Care face product (on clearance)
2 Jane mascaras
2 Jane eyeshadow duos

Total after coupons: $3.07

Starting Up a Big-Girl Account

2008-02-22T10:55:00.002-06:00

Today I opened my very first Roth IRA!!! I have been thinking about starting a retirement account since I was in college, but then I went to grad school and became poor rather than getting a "real job" immediately after college. And at that time I didn't know jack about personal finance, frugality, or savings. I still am VERY limited in what I know about investing, so I am definitely playing it safe and boring.

Yay!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I went with a Roth instead of Traditional IRA for several reasons, one of which is because I know I'll be in a higher tax bracket when I retire than I am now, so I'd rather be taxed on the money now. I'm investing in medium risk, medium return index funds which fall under the relatively safe and boring category. If you're new to investing or personal finance, I highly recommend the Get Rich Slowly blog.

I am very excited. :D

Utensil Drama

2008-02-21T19:12:00.003-06:00

I couldn't understand why I had twice as many forks as spoons, or why my spoons were ginormous. Turns out that my normal sized spoons were in the top section of my silverware organizer. Where I put them. And haven't been using them all of these months.

Sometimes I think it's pretty amazing that I make through the day without seriously injuring myself.

New Lamps!

2008-02-21T19:04:00.002-06:00

I bought two, and they go so well with the flower print. :)

Growth

2008-02-19T20:43:00.003-06:00

A year ago, I wasn't sure what was going to happen with my life or where I would go for internship. There was a lot of turmoil in my life as I waited to find out and then fought for a site to go to. It turned out to be better than I could have imagined, and I wrote about it almost a year ago here.

My internship will be done at the end of August. As I seek God's will for my residency year, I find that while I still dislike the uncertainty, I am okay with leaving it in His hands.

If things had gone smoothly last year, I would not feel this way now. And now I understand why things had to be the way that they were.

Weekly Menu

2008-02-17T13:49:00.002-06:00

Maybe this will help me be more organized. ;)

Breakfasts: Peanut butter toast or pumpkin bread (I adapted this recipe), organic skim milk

Lunches: Wraps (chicken, baby spinach, feta cheese, and sunflower seeds) or PB sandwich or southwestern frozen sandwich from Aldi, pretzels, orange or grapes, Honey Bunches of Oats with chocolate clusters cereal (dry in a baggie- go to their website for a $2 off coupon!)

Dinners: Red potato casserole (ranch dressing, cheese, bacon bits- VERY healthy ;)), pepperoni and black olive pizza (from scratch), spinach stuffed rigatoni (frozen from Aldi), nachos, side dishes of frozen or canned veggies

Dessert: Fruit or ice cream

Stupid Ice Storm

2008-02-12T20:16:00.000-06:00

Well, we had another ice storm on Monday. Thankfully, my power has remained on the entire time. I went to work for a couple of hours Monday and didn't go at all today as I would've had a huge commute on slippery roads.

My car doors were completely frozen shut with a thick sheet of ice covering them. I had to take a screwdriver and chip away at the ice until I was able to open the driver's side. Then I let my car run for 30 minutes. Then I had to try to beat the ice off of my car because there was so much of it. Then I broke part of my ice scraper on some really thick ice.

After all of that, I took a trip to my happy place (Walgreen's) to purchase the deals of the week.

I'm ready for spring.

Post #300: A Procrastination Post

2008-02-10T22:07:00.000-06:00

Welcome to my 300th post. It is 10:12pm on a Sunday night and I am scrambling to finish up some evals before work tomorrow. Rather than actually do my work, I shall procrastinate. Surprising, I know.

Last weekend Mom and I hit a couple of our fave thrift stores. I always look for baskets at one of the stores because they are generally .25 each. There haven't been any good ones in the last few trips and my basket stash had dried up. I hit the jackpot this time, scoring seven medium to large sized baskets for a grand total of $1.75. I use these for gift baskets- I recently paid $5 for a gift basket in a store because my stash was gone. A quarter is much better than $5. I also found a book that I wanted for .25 and some old wooden hangers. At the next thrift I scored a bunch of fabric ribbon for a few dollars (they had an additional % off sale). I have an unholy love for ribbon and have an enormous amount of it. But I justify it because I use obscene amounts on gifts.

And now I have to get back to work.

Digital Box Converter Thingie

2008-02-06T22:42:00.000-06:00

If you're like me and will need to purchase those stupid boxes so that you can watch television in 2009, here is the coupon from the government for $40 off. You can request one or two coupons and they will ship sometime in late February or so.

Savings Extravaganza

2008-02-06T22:13:00.000-06:00

In 2007 I earned $91.51 in interest from my savings accounts at Ing Direct. In 2006, I only earned about $35. Even though the interest rates have plummeted, 3.5% interest is still waaaaaaaaaaaaay better than a traditional savings account. I think you could get a little higher interest at other online banks, but I like Ing. A couple of months ago, I set up automatic savings transfers after each payday and I am becoming addicted to logging into my account to watch my savings add up. Whee!

P.S. I think this might mean that I am a dork.

Frugal By Comparison

2008-02-03T22:58:00.000-06:00

Sometimes I purchase things not because they are truly frugal, but because they fulfill a "want" for much less. For example, I *loved* these shoes. A lot. But at $245, that wasn't happening. So...
I bought these instead:

$24.99 is still a lot for man-made materials, but it is definitely frugal by comparison. :D

New-To-Me Vintage Pretties

2008-01-29T20:11:00.001-06:00

Vintage blue wool swing coat with bracelet sleeves, $15. Because I totally needed another coat.

A close-up of the seaming and cute purple buttons...

Vintage purse, $2.

Catalogs Be Gone!

2008-01-29T20:04:00.000-06:00

I just found this website called Catalog Choice where you register and can decline all of the junky catalogs that clog your mailbox. Not the good ones that sell you shoes, of course. ;) I've just signed up so I can't give a testimonial on its behalf, but this looks like a great idea.

Vitamin Deal: Great for the Hypochondriac

2008-01-25T10:19:00.000-06:00

At Puritan's Pride, they are offering 8-cent shipping until January 27th. They are also offering a "buy two, get three free" deal on all products. The product has to be the same item and same size, however. This would be a great deal on things you take a lot of, like multivitamins and Vitamin C. Go through ebates and get 7% back.

On a side note, I was recently listening to a neuropsychologist give a lecture. He said that if a person takes a bunch of multivitamins and supplements, it's safe to say that they have some health-related anxiety. As a person that takes 5, soon to be 6 varying supplements each day, I can say that this is probably true. I am really healthy, though. :P

Optimism: Thy Name is Tessa

2008-01-23T21:01:00.000-06:00

"If an optimist had his left arm chewed off by an alligator, he might say, in a pleasant and hopeful voice, "Well, this isn't too bad. I don't have my left arm anymore, but at least nobody will ever ask me whether I am right-handed or left-handed," but most of us would say something more along the lines of "Aaaaah! My arm! My arm!"

- Horseradish: Bitter Truths You Can't Avoid by Lemony Snicket, pg. 92

You Need to Buy This Book

2008-01-23T20:36:00.000-06:00

Back in March of last year, Shannon over at Rocks in My Dryer reviewed The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers His Name by Sally Lloyd-Jones. Her review is much more eloquent than mine and I encourage you to read it. Anyhoo, after reading her review I put it on my Amazon wishlist and waited (you know, the frugal thing). With a recent gift card, I went ahead and purchased it.

Wow. If you have children, grandchildren, or even know any children, you need to buy this book. It is the very best Bible storybook that I have ever read. I had several such books as a child, and they I found them to be either A) boring or B) scary. This book is neither. It does not make the Bible into simplistic "do this and be good so God is happy" terms, either. It somehow finds a way to tell Bible stories in a kid-friendly manner while explaining why a relationship with Jesus is necessary. At the end of every Old Testament story, there is a tie-in to Jesus. For example, at the end of the story of when Abraham was going to sacrifice Isaac is the following :

"Many years later, another Son would climb another hill, carrying wood on his back. Like Isaac, he would trust his Father and do what his Father asked. He wouldn't struggle or run away. Who was he? God's Son, his only Son- the Son he loved. The Lamb of God (p. 69)."

This book is beautifully written and would be a wonderful tool in teaching children about Jesus. I must admit that I've cried my way through some of the tie-in pieces. I wish this book had been around when I was a child!

A Walgreens Story

2008-01-21T21:26:00.000-06:00

All right, I realize that I talk about Walgreens waaaaaaaaaaaaaay too much on here. I will try to hold it down from now on. But the setting is relevant for this story.

Today I went to Aldi for part of my monthly grocery shopping. I dropped $60, which is good considering how long those groceries will last. But I still get bitter spending that much money on something that is enjoyed temporarily. I know, a person has to eat. I digress.

I headed to Walgreens for my weekly deal raiding/making myself feel better after blowing $60 on something that is not shoes. I picked up 2 bags of Dove chocolates for $1/bag after coupons and a free tube of Aquafresh toothpaste after coupon (there's a $2 printable coupon on the Aquafresh website and the Advanced toothpaste is on sale for $2). There is a lot of irony in purchasing chocolate and toothpaste together, I know. And I really don't need any more toothpaste since I currently have five tubes in my stash.

So I'm wandering the aisles of my happy place when I see her. This woman is pushing a cart and she has a coupon binder! Now, I have never seen anyone out and about with a coupon binder in the year and a half that I've been couponing. Should I say something to her? Is there some sort of couponing secret word that I should say? I decide to control the crazy and say nothing.

I get in line to pay my $2 (put it on my gift card, of course) when she gets in line behind me. I can't control myself any longer. "I have a coupon binder, too." I say. Luckily I appear like a nonthreatening twelve-year-old in real life, not like some sort of weird stalker. "Really?" she asks. "Does it work for you?" Does the coupon binder *work* for me? Ha! I am flabbergasted by this question. "Oh, yes," I reply. The conversation ends and I smile and leave the store.

I think all of the couponing/frugal people out there need to come up with some sort of gang symbol to flash at each other. Otherwise, I will continue to have nutso conversations like this. :P

Ebates: Shameless Plug Ahead!

2008-01-21T14:15:00.000-06:00

I've referred to Ebates numerous times throughout the history of this blog. Here's how you use it:
1) You decide to make a purchase at an online store.
2) You go to Ebates to check if that store is in their program. MANY stores are. If it is, you click on the Ebates link for that store.
3) That link takes you to the store you want to buy from, and you will earn a percentage of your purchase back (usually 1-6%).
4) Wait until you have accumulated $5.01 or more from these purchases. Every three months or so, Ebates will send you a check if you have that amount in your account.

I have been an Ebates member for a few years and have earned $49.88 back in that time by purchasing pet food, books, printer ink, minutes for my phone, and so on. It's easy and it's free. They normally give you a $5 sign up bonus, but from now until February 14th if someone refers you and you make a purchase in that time period, you both earn $10. If you'd like to sign up under me, here's my link.