Harris Teetet Triple coupons days

Triple coupon weekend is this coming weekend, January 1 - 4, 2009. Remember to stick to sale items to really make a good saving. Some items, even with triple coupon discount are still cheaper at Walmart and Target. Items that will be free this weekend after your triple coupon are Hungry Jack mashed potatoes and Kotex pantyliners. The Gum and Oral B toothbrushes will cost just pennies after the triple coupon.

Happy New Year and Happy saving!
Thrifty

Free and cheap ways to watch TV

Free: Hulu.com, the streaming-video love child of NBC Universal and News Corp., is one of the best places on the Web to find free video content. While Fox and NBC have contributed the bulk of the media, some Comedy Central programming and movies from the likes of MGM, Warner Bros. and Universal are also available. New television episodes usually appear the day after they air, but the licensing contracts vary by show. All the content is free, but you will have to suffer through advertising spots.

Free: Joost Cost - Originally set up as a peer-to-peer video distribution network, Joost ran into a bunch of problems since its January 2007 launch — it had little appealing content and forced viewers to use an unwieldy media player. That changed in September 2008, when it relaunched as a browser-based streaming service. Most full episodes come from Viacom and CBS, both investors in Joost. Joost also just released an application for the iPhone that lets you stream its video content when connected to wi-fi hot spots.

For more free online TV viewing, go to http://www.forbes.com/2008/12/08/ditch-your-tv-tech-personal-cx_mji_1208ditchtv.html for the complete article.

Happy Viewing!
Thrifty

Savvy online shopping!

If you want to compare prices of an item at various stores or be informed of a price drop for a product, even after you have made a purchase, the following three sites will do that for you. http://www.pricespider.com and www.pricegrabber.com compare prices, while http://www.priceprotectr.com will alert you of a price drop. If the price drops after you've made your purchase, you still want to know as many stores will give you a refund for the difference within a 30 to 60 days period.

Happy shopping!
Thrifty

Census Jobs

If you're in the market for a part-time or full-time job, the government is currently hiring people to work in the 2010 census. These jobs can start as early as January 2009 if you want to work full-time or you can do the 10 week flexible schedule enumerating in 2010. Go to http://www.census.gov/2010censusjobs/howtoapply.php or call 1-866-861-2010 for more information.

Happy Holidays!
Thrifty

Great gifts under $30

Go here:

http://shopping.yahoo.com/articles/yshoppingarticles/168/great-gifts-under-30/

I especially like the eco-friendly water bottle!

Happy shopping!
Thrifty

Shopping deals

Apparently Black Friday has come early this year. For more info, go to http://tech.yahoo.com/blogs/hughes/35180

Enjoy the flurries
Thrifty

Christmas gifts online

If you have not started your gift shopping yet, here are a few online stores to get you going!

Anyone: http://www.gifts.com/, http://www.giftideasetc.com/, http://www.amazing-christmas-ideas.com/category/christmas-gift-ideas/
Her: http://www.links2love.com/gifts_4_her.htm
Mom: http://www.everything4mom.com/, http://ezinearticles.com/?Unique-Gifts-for-Mom&id=101881
Him: http://www.askmen.com/entertainment/mrtech_100/126_tech_gadgets.html
Dad: http://fatherhood.about.com/od/christmasholidays/tp/creative_gifts.htm
Coke memorabilia: http://www.coca-colastore.com/cokestore/ - Free shipping on orders over $50.00

Homemade gift ideas: http://familycrafts.about.com/cs/giftgiving/a/120400a.htm

Happy shopping!
Thrifty

Online shopping rebates

If you shop online often, you may want to go to www.ebates.com and register with them. This way you get a percentage back from your purchases you would have made any way! For signing up, you get a free $10.00 gift card or $5.00 in cash. Sounds like a deal all around!

Happy Shopping!
Thifty

Leappad Books on sale

For 70% off leappad books go to http://www.leapfrog.com/en/shop/leappad_classics.html and stock up with educational gifts for friends and family kids.

Happy shopping!
Thrifty

Fresh Christmas Trees

Nothing like the smell of a fresh tree in your house during the festive season!

NC Grown Fraser Fir Christmas Trees and Wreaths-cut fresh from Spruce Pine NC, ready for pickup in Morrisville beginning Thursday, Nov. 28th.

Tree Prices: Wreath Prices:
5'-6'=$25 8"=$10
6'-7'=$30 12"=$18
7'-8'=$40 16"=$22
8'-9'=$50 20"=$25
9'-10'=$60 30"=$35
10'-11'=$70 12" double-sided=$25 16" double-sided=$30
25' bundle garland/roping=$30

Contact Tim or Anna Walters by email or telephone:
Tim (919)740-1432, overheretim@yahoo.com
Anna (919)604-4361, anna.walters@yahoo.com

This is a pre-order only opportunity. Payment is due in full at the time the order is placed. Pickup at 108 Waltons Creek Rd., Morrisville during the following hours:

Friday, Nov. 28th: 4pm-9pm, Saturday, Nov. 29th: 9am-9pm, Sunday, Nov. 30th: 1pm-5pm
If you'd like to see pictures of the actual Christmas tree farm in Spruce Pine and what the trees will look like, visit this website: www.stonewallchristmastrees.com

Enjoy the build-up!
Thrifty

Coupons

If you're looking for a coupon for a specific store or product, go to the website for the store or product. Many sites have coupons for printing or sign-ups for special offers. Examples are:

Smart Balance: http://www.smartbalance.com/SBContact.aspx
Silk Soy Milk: http://www.silksoymilk.com/SpecialOffers.aspx
Firestone: http://www.firestonecompleteautocare.com/jumppump/index.jsp

Also, go to MommySavesBig for printable coupons for groceries, retailers and restaurants amongst other categories. The link is http://printable-coupons.blogspot.com/ There's a great coupon for Joann's right now, one for 40% off expiring November 1 and one for 50% off expiring tomorrow!

So hurry and save!
Thrifty

Passport Pictures

Anyone who has needed passport pictures recently will know how expensive they are inspite of the price, really poor quality! Judging by my own recent experience at Walgreens and what I have since read online, forget about going to the local drug stores where few of the employees know how to take a good quality passport picture.

If you are a Basic member of AAA, pictures are two for $6.00 and free if you have a Plus membership. A good price AND good quality!

There is also a free online service where you can do-it-yourself! So if you have a digital camera and someone handy to take your picture, click, upload and print. You can then print 6 passport pictures ( 2 X 2) as one 4 X 6 photo. Just cut your 6 pictures and viola! Don't have good printer? Upload your picture to the site and they will validate and mail to you at a cost of $5.99 for 6, or print at your local drugstore or Walmart for pennies. Go to:
http://www.epassportphoto.com/ for complete instructions.

Happy saving!
Thrifty

Changes to the NC State Fair for 2008

For those of you who enjoy going to the State Fair the day before to buy food without having to pay at the gate, that day is today. Here is a Facebook reply I got from the NC State Fair Facebook page: "the food vendors are set up and probably would sell their wares today. We've never had an official "free" day, but we know many people made that a tradition. Today would be the day to come for that, because the gates won't be open until 3 p.m. tomorrow. Have a great time!"

There is also an Unlimited wrist band for rides, for sale and valid October 16, 2008 only. Here is more information from the NC State webpage:
$25 for unlimited rides good only on Preview Day, Thursday, Oct. 16
Unlimited Preview Day Ride Wristbands will be available from Powers Great American Midways on Preview Day, Thursday, Oct. 16, ONLY.
The Preview Day Ride Wristbands will only be available for purchase and use from 4 p.m. to midnight on Thursday, Oct. 16. The Preview Day Ride Wristband will only be accepted by ride operators on Preview Day, Oct. 16.
The Preview Day Ride Wristbands will only be available for purchase from ticket booths operated by Powers Great American Midways. Preview Day Ride Wristbands will not be sold at the entrance gates.

Fairgrounds gates - On Thursday, October 16, the fairgrounds gates open 3 p.m. to midnight. From October 17-26, fairgrounds gates open 8 a.m. to midnight (must have advance ticket to get in the gate between 10 p.m. and midnight) Exhibit Halls - On Thursday, October 16, exhibit halls open 4 to 9:45 p.m. From October 17-26, exhibit halls open 9 a.m. to 9:45 p.m.Midway rides - On Thursday, October 16, Midway rides open 4 p.m. to midnight. From October 17-26, Midway rides open 10 a.m. to midnight. Ticket booths - Open 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Enjoy the fair!
Thrifty

NC State Fair

Fun and food are here again with the NC State fair starting next week. Entry and ride tickets are cheaper when bought in advance. Go to http://www.ncstatefair.org/2008/tickets/index.htm for complete ticket information.

On a different note, an uplifting site to go to is www.operationnice.com.

Enjoy!
Thrifty

Free cultural experience

This Saturday October 11 from 11:00a to 8:00p is the Diwali Festival of Lights celebration at Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Cary, NC. Entrance is free and there is food, clothing and crafts for sale.

Cary Diwali pays tribute to Indian art and culture. This year's theme is Santulan-An Expression of Harmonious Equilibrium.
Price: free
Age Suitability: All Ages

Cary Diwali pays tribute to Indian art and culture. This year's theme is Santulan-An Expression of Harmonious Equilibrium.
Treat yourself to a unique cultural experience at Cary Diwali 2008. Cary Diwali pays tribute to Indian art and culture. This year’s theme is Santulan — An Expression of Harmonious Equilibrium. Performances will reflect the theme by presenting a balance of the latest in Indian music and dance along with more traditional forms. This year’s featured performer is the Bollywood actess, singer and VJ Raageshwari “Ragz.” A bazaar will offer a wide variety of handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, music and food to delight the senses. Special exhibits will showcase India’s past and present. Diwali, which means “row of lights,” will conclude with a fireworks display over the lake at the Koka Booth Amphitheatre. Hum Sub, Inc. proudly presents this festival in cooperation with the Town of Cary Parks, Recreation and Cultural Resources. For more information call (919) 460-4963.
Location: Koka Booth Amphitheatre at Regency Park, 8003 Regency Parkway, Cary

Enjoy!
Thrifty

News and Observer

If you subscribe to the News and Observer, you can register online and then make use of the coupons and offers in the Zone Subscriber Rewards section. Offers include discounts on tickets, buy one get one free and give aways to movies, the fair, dvd's, ballet, museum exhibits, the zoo and more! Coupons are for restaurants such as Cici's and Cold Stone Creamery. Logon and save!

Happy Saving
Thrifty

Saving gas!

There are a number of alternatives to driving all the way to work on a daily basis. The Triangle Transit website gives links to pages for Carpools, Vanpools, Bike/Walk and even a link to Telework! On the carpool page for example, you can register to find others interested in carpooling as well. Look into this, a really useful option!

The Triangle Transit website is http://www.gotriangle.org/.

Happy saving!
Thrifty

Cold Stone Ice Cream Social

Apex Cold Stone is partcipating in the free ice cream social on September 25, 2008.

"To cap off this special month, don't miss the 7th Annual World’s Largest Ice Cream Social at participating Cold Stone Creamery locations nationwide, a special night to join together and share the simple pleasures of life with a FREE ice cream and family fun. On September 25th from 5:00 - 8:00PM, guests will be treated to a 3 oz. serving of Jack or Emily's Creation. All donations will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation."

Happy eating and giving!
Thrifty

Insurance

Auto: To see if you're getting the best rate for care insurance, visit the website of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, and click on NAIC States & Jurisdictions to find your state's insurance department. Most provide comparative premium quotes based on standard customer profiles. You can also get quotes from insurers by phone or over the Internet, although this sets you up for unwanted calls, mail or email. You can also compare premiums from multiple carriers by using independent Web sites, such as Insweb, Insurance.com, and Insure.com.

Life: Life-insurance premiums have dropped dramatically since the 1990s, so depending on when you bought yours, you may want to compare your rate to the going rates today. If your health had room for improvement when you bought your life insurnace, consider adopting a healthier lifestyle to get yourself re-rated for a lower premium. Check with your doctor before getting into shape to apply for a new policy or new rates. You can get premium quotes at LifeInsure.com. Don't cancel your existing policy until you have a new one already in place.

Happy saving!
Thrifty

Large Appliance purchases

Try not to buy a large appliance before Christmas. Appliance dealers often have sales in the winter or have regular seasonal sales. Home computers in particular are seasonal items and will cost more before Christmas. Besides, with all the other expenses around Christmas, why would anyone want to stretch their budget at this time?

Start planning on Christmas gift shopping if you have not already started!

Happy saving!
Thrifty

Chick-fil-A Labor day free chicken strips

Chick-fil-A is having a Cheer For Chicken giveaway on Labor Day. This Labor Day, from 10:30 a.m. to close, wear any football team logo into any Chick-fil-A location for a FREE three-count of Chick-n-Strips. Go to http://www.cheerforchicken.com/ for all the details.

Happy Eating!
Thrifty

Saving on Food

Plan menus around sales on fresh chicken, fish, meat, dairy and produce. Choose recipes based on what’s on the biggest sales in your grocery store’s flyer, leftovers in the refrigerator and what you have on hand. This eliminates leftovers going to waste!

Avoid expensive pre-packaged meals and eat more low-priced, high-nutrition foods such as beans and potatoes. Try less-expensive store brands, sign up for store discount or loyalty cards and stock up on staples that are on sale. Remember that some stores allow you to buy one item at half price, when sales are buy one, get one free. This means you don't have to buy two if you only need one!

If you tend to be an impulse buyer and/or shop with kids, make use of a grocery service offered by the store. Call in your order and pick up when ready. Harris Teeter has a $4.95 service fee, waived for new Express Lane shoppers. For more details on this service, go to:
http://www.harristeeter.com/shopping/express_lane/express_lane.aspx

Happy saving!
Thrifty

Saving on Prescriptions

Kroger, Target and Walmart have $4 generic prescriptions for a typical 30-day supply and $10 for a typical 90-day supply.

Kroger claims to have over 300 generic medications at this rate.

For more information go to:
http://www.kroger.com/Generic/Pages/index.html
http://sites.target.com/site/en/health/generic_drugs.jsp
http://www.walmart.com/catalog/catalog.gsp?adid=1500000000000006817770&cat=546834&dest=120741

Happy Saving!
Thrifty

Plan now for winter heating costs

Another good insert from Good Morning America on planning now to save on heating costs for the winter. Go to http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=5574287&page=1

Happy planning!
Thrifty

Save money on Pets

Good Morning America had a few good tips on saving money on pets, including their food, healthcare and insurance. http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=5560830&page=1 has the details.

Happy saving!
Thrifty

Cut Your Spending by up to $500 Per Month

We've all heard the "make your cuppa at home" savings line and quite frankly it's old! For great new tips on real savings, see this page: http://finance.yahoo.com/banking-budgeting/article/105450/Cut-Your-Spending-by-%24500-Per-Month

Happy saving!
Thrifty

RDU airport parking

This is late in the day, but better late than never! You can park free up to August 9, 2008 at the Fast Park & Relax parking lot on Fast Park Drive, close to Lumley Road off 540.

For more info go to http://fastparkrelax.com/Raleigh-Durham-Airport-Parking.aspx

Enjoy the free parking!
Thrifty

Harris Teetet Triple coupons days

Today and tomorrow the Harris Teeter 3 day triple coupon sale is on-going. Remember though to really save by buying items that are on sale already. Many items are still cheaper when bought at Target or Walmart, even if the coupon is only discounted once. So, don't go overboard with the triple coupons as they're not always a saving.

Happy saving!
Thrifty

Free summer movies reminder!!

Don't forget about the free movies at Regal theatres.

For the Free Family Film Festival showtimes and information, go to: http://www.regmovies.com/nowshowing/familyfilmfestivalschedule.aspx?state=NC For schedules outside of NC, go to http://www.regmovies.com/nowshowing/familyfilmfestivalschedule.aspx and select your state. Popcorn and soda's are $1 each! You can't beat that!

In Apex, the Beaver Creek movie schedule is:

07/22/2008-07/24/2008: Charlotte's Web (G) and Bratz (PG)
07/29/2008-07/31/2008: Wallace And Gromit (G) and Alvin And The Chipmunks (PG)
08/05/2008-08/07/2008: Peter Pan (PG) and Shark Tale (PG)

Enjoy!
Thrifty

Saving on Food

Suddenly it is fashionable to save! Soaring gas prices mean food prices increasing. As a result, websites with saving tips on meals have seen a marked increase in traffic.

www.thriftyfun.com, www.hillbillyhousewife.com (don't be put off by the name!), http://www.betterbudgeting.com/frugalrecipelist.htm, http://www.cookcheap.com/ and www.hopefulhousewife.com are all sites where you can find recipes and/or good tips for saving on foods.

www.allrecipes.com, has a Quick and Easy link which has low-budget meals amongst others.

Remember though, that eating cheap should still be healthy! http://www.eatbetteramerica.com/ is a site I enjoy.

Happy saving!
Thrifty

Sites with savings

If you have not already logged onto redplum.com, this site is worth looking at. This site has information, coupons (always welcome!) and competitions.

To find out how to save up to $451 per month, go to http://finance.yahoo.com/banking-budgeting/article/105062/Turn-451-A-Month-Into-A-Million-Bucks This page also suggests saving this money to make a million dollars in 35 years. Oh well, just saving that amount to use on vacations or saving for your kids college would be a big help!

Happy saving!
Thrifty

Free summer movies

For the Free Family Film Festival showtimes and information, go to:

http://www.regmovies.com/nowshowing/familyfilmfestivalschedule.aspx?state=NC

For schedules outside of NC, go to http://www.regmovies.com/nowshowing/familyfilmfestivalschedule.aspx and select your state.

Last year they had popcorn and soda for $1 each! Parents were free and kids paid $1 for admission. You can't beat that!

Happy watching!
Thrifty

Energy saving tips

Good Morning!

Here are a few tips I found in the "Comforts of Home" newsletter of PSNC energy.

1. Choose a professional car wash - 45 gallons of water per car as opposed to 80 - 140 gallons when washing at home.

2. Turn your thermostat up in the summertime to 78 degrees. Every degree higher saves up to 8%! A setting of 78 degrees uses 35% less energy than a 70 degree setting.

3. Use your outdoor natural gas grill to keep your kitchen cooler and reduce energy bills. Natural gas grills are environmentally friendly; using natural gas instead of charcoal reduces CO2 emissions by 26%! Visit psncenergy.com/grills for grill specials.

4. Reduce long distance carbon emissions by vacationing locally and enjoying all NC has to offer! Learn more at nc.org

Happy saving!
Thrifty

Cheap flights

If you intend travelling some time this year, take a look at this page for deals on Southwest airlines. Other airlines with competitive prices are mentioned as well. http://www.smartertravel.com/airfare/sale-fares-on-southwest.html?id=2565001&source=dealalert&value=2008-05-15+00%3A00%3A00&u=D67962EE02

Happy flying!
Thrifty

Gas

Isn't it something to see a $3.74 sign at the gas stations? We have already covered how to save gas by driving conservatively. Here are a few more tips for saving at the pump.

1. Discounted gas: There are 3 Krogers in this area where you can save 10c per gallon if you have shopped for at least $100 in a month at any Kroger store. Raleigh, Durham and Fuquay Varina have the Krogers with the gas station. So if you live in or will be in one of those 3 places close to the Kroger gas station, you could fill up there and a dollar or two.

2. Cash back: Some credit cards give you 3% to 5% discount on gas. Also, if you are enrolled in a reward program with your credit card, you could ask for a gas card. I just received a $50.00 gas card for Exxon from my card. Considering I don't pay any interest on the card (I pay the balance due every month), this is quite a bonus! :)

3. Don't drive: Of course, the only real saving is driving less. Plan your trips to run several errands at a time.

4. Share costs: Only 12% of working people car pool here in the US! Yes, it is not as convenient if you have to wait 10 minutes while your colleague delays. However, that could amount to a considerable saving at the gas pump! Car pooling with neighbours and friends for kid's social activities is another great way to save and you get to socialise more!

Happy driving
Thrifty

Saving

Good morning from a chilly Apex.

With the state of the economy, we need to go to extra lengths to save. Here are a few tips:

1. Use a piggy bank: This may sound too simple, but saving your change every day in a piggy bank can give you $20 to $50 at the end of the month without too much effort. Deposit this into your savings account.

2. Automatic deduction: Have your employer deduct money from your paycheck and deposit it directly into a savings account.

3. Plan your purchases: If the offer is 'valid only for today', then it's not worth buying. If you can't have the time to plan and budget for a purchase, don't buy it.

4. Use the tax rebate, any tax refund or money left over at the end of the month and deposit in a high-yield savings account or an IRA.

5. Saving here and there: Cut down on restaurant trips and all those small expenses, like coffee or ice-cream while out. Saving $4.00 here and $10.oo there adds up! These savings can be used for upcoming summer outings.

Happy saving!
Thrifty

Mother's Day gifts

Ideas for gifts for all ages of children to give Mom on Sunday is the topic today. So, if you have not bought or thought or that special gift yet, here are some ideas:

1. Amcor GPS $99.99 - Linens N Things (L n T)
2. Digital photo frames: 5.6" Tru Photo Digital Frame with remote control, $69.99 - L n T
3. Digital frames $68.99 - $109 - Target
4. Grandma, Nana or Mom heart shaped pendants, $39.99 -K-Mart
5. Sharper Image digital frame with key chain $17.99 - Belk's
6. Buy any fragrance for more than $30.00 and receive a free watch pendeant with necklace and bracelet - Ulta. Also has a $3.50 coupon in the Sunday paper.
7. Jewelry and spa certificates are always welcomed by Mom's.
8. Flowers and candy.
9. Home made gifts are popular as well.
10. Lots and lots of love, hugs and kisses!

Happy Mother's Day to all Mom's for Sunday!
Thrifty

Ten tips on saving gas

1. Less than a minute warm-up time is enough, even on a cold morning.
2. When starting from dead stop, accelerate slowly.
3. Drive at the speed limit. This is safer and it saves gas.
3. Idling your engine for one minute consumes the same amount of gas as re-starting the engine. Don’t turn the engine off and on needlessly.
4. Extra weight in the car, trunk, or on top of your car will reduce your mileage. If you can, get rid of extra tires and unnecessary items inyour car.
5. Avoid "reving" the engine, especially just before you switch the engine off; this wastes fuel needlessly and washes oil down from the inside cylinder walls, owing to loss of oil pressure.
6.
7. When you’re on the highway, keep your windows closed. Open windows reduce mileage by about 10%.
8. Eliminate jack-rabbit starts by accelerating gradually when starting from dead stop.
9. Have regular tune-ups and change your air filter often to ensure gas efficiency.
10. Buy gasoline at coolest time of day (mornings or evenings) and do not fill tank to the top. Overfilling results in sloshing over and out of tank. Never fill gas tank past the first "click" of fuel nozzle, if nozzle is automatic.

Also, walking uses no gas and is good for you! :)

Happy walking
Thrifty

Baskin Robbins special

A reminder that tonight is the Baskin Robbins 31c scoop night!

Enjoy
Thrifty

Baskin Robbins special

Baskin Robbins is having a special on April 30th, 2008 from 5pm-10pm. 2.5oz scoops are only 31c, in honor of America's Firefighters. Find out more at http://www.baskinrobbins.com/Promotion/31cent.aspx

Yummy!
Thrifty

Utility savings

You could save quite a bit in the laundry room, up to $250 per year! How?

1. Wash clothes in cold or warm water: Washing in cold water will also prevent fading. Heavily soiled clothes or dish towels may need hot water.
2. Even when washing with hot water, always rinse in cold water. There is no benefit to rinsing in warm or hot water and it wastes energy anyway.
3. Dry clothes for the minimum amount of time to get them dry. If your dryer has a moisture sensor, use it as it will sense when the clothes are dry and may even go through a "cool down" cycle.
4. Don't overfill the washing machine or tumble dryer, but at the same time, don't wash a few items on large or super settings. This wastes, water, detergent and energy!
5. Use coupons for your laundry detergent and buy in bulk. You can stock up on detergent when on sale. Pairing a sale price with a coupon is a double saving. Also, the bigger the container, the cheaper the unit price. Detergent stores well! :)

Tax D-day!

If you have not filed yet, you still have the weekend to do it. The sooner you file, the sooner you'll get your 'rebate'. Also, if you have already filed and want to know where your refund is, go to https://sa2.www4.irs.gov/irfof/lang/en/irfofgetstatus.jsp

Happy filing!
Thrifty

Free Milkshakes samples!!!

Here is information for a freebie:

The Triangle-area Chick-fil-A stores are going to be giving out FREE milkshake samples every Friday this month from 5 to 8 p.m. Here's the flavor schedule:
*April 4: Coffee Caramel
*April 11: Cookies & Cream
*April 18: Chocolate
*April 25 Strawberry

Enjoy!
Thrifty

Harris Teeter Triple Coupons

Harris Teeter is having triple coupons today and tomorrow, March 28 and 29, 2008.

So clip and save!

Happy savings
Thrifty

Tax Rebate/Stimulus Payment

Many are excited about the stimulus payments (or tax rebates). Remember though, that you to receive a payment, taxpayers must have a valid Social Security number, $3,000 of income and file a 2007 federal tax return. The IRS will take care of the rest. This is on the IRS website at http://www.irs.gov/newsroom/article/0,,id=177937,00.html

If you are filing for an extension, this will delay your payment.

Happy filing!
Thrifty

Destress and declutter!

Before you buy new things, really think about whether they will really improve quality of life, or if they will just cause you stress (from having less money) and eventually add clutter to your home. Spending less can reduce stress. After all, the best things in life are free! Remember too that unless you need that sale item, don't buy it. You may be saving 50% on sale, but you will save 100% if you don't buy it! ;)

Happy saving!
Thrifty

Date night!

Date night and no sitter? This Friday night, Imagine that Learning Center on Ten Ten Rd is having Parent's night out. The fee is $7.50 per hour for the first child and $5 per hour for each sibling, from 5pm - 10pm. 919-362-6007 http://imaginethatlearningcenter.com/

Right next door is a place called Right on Track, their fee is $15.00 for the whole night, 6pm - 10pm! Now that's a deal! They have a theme night and Friday night is 'Going to the Fair'. For $3 more they will give dinner, which can be pizza or chicken nuggets, veggies and juice. On http://www.insiderpages.com/b/15240107501 you can find a coupon for 2 hours free when you buy 2 hours of care. (Not valid on parent's night out.) Contact details are: 919-362-1619; 2137 Ten Ten Rd Apex, NC 27539 http://www.rightontrackkids.com/

Apex Recreation Center is having their Parent's night out on March 14 from 5.30 - 9.30pm and the fee is $17 for residents and $23 for nonresidents.

In the Cary/Morrisville/Apex area, Roxy will come to your house to babysit. Her fee is $5 per hour for the first child and $1 per hour for each sibling. Her number is: 919-924-9634.

No more excuses for not having that date night.....

Happy dating!
Thrifty

Car and air trips

To calculate the cost of gas for an upcoming trip, go to http://www.fuelcostcalculator.com/ This AAA site lists 140 cities, one of which is Raleigh. You could use this to get an idea of your gas expenses when planning a trip. For cheap gas prices in your zip code, go to http://www.gasbuddy.com/ or http://autos.msn.com/everyday/gasstations.aspx

Last-minute airline deals can be found at http://www.smartertravel.com/ You can also sign up with United and US Airways for their mid-week releases on deals.

Happy travelling!
Thrifty

Date night!

If you're anything like me, you don't enjoy paying double the money for half the service on special days like Valentine's Day. So, if you haven't had your date yet to celebrate your love, Bistro 64 has some good options.

Thursday February 21st, we are introducing our new bar menu and beginning our 1/2 off Bar Menu Thursdays! Also, the same day we have a complimentary wine tasting at 5:00pm, hosted by Alex Gray of Turner Wine Imports.

Remember our other weekly events:
Martini Mondays: All 64 Martinis are 1/2 off! Less than $5 each
Monday-Thursday 3 course menu $25 per person 5:00-6:00pm
Friday and Saturday: Live Music beginning at 7:00pm in our cozy bar.
Visit our site to view our music schedule and learn about our house band, Fred Westbrook and Blue T. www.bistro64.com

And Bistro 64 is a smoke-free restaurant! Yeah!

Happy dining!
Thrifty

Sports Physical, Kindergarten Exam and other

Looking for affordable healthcare in the Apex/Cary area? Access Healthcare does school sports and camp physicals for just $25.00! The daycare entrance exam, regular office visits and work physicals are only $45.00! That's less than the minute clinic for a office visit. The telephone number is (919) 363-0190 and the location is 1031 W. Williams St. Suite 106, Apex, NC 27502. The website is http://prosites-bforrest.homestead.com/

Happy saving!
Thrifty

Ale House specials and kids

The Ale House all over the NC, SC and FL have a kid's special. Every Tuesday is Kid's Night at the Carolina Ale House! NC & SC:: Kid's Eat for .$99! FL:: Kid's Eat Free with the purchase of an adult entree of $8.99 or more.

Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays from 4:30 - 6:00pm and Wednesdays from 5:00 - 7:00pm there's an Appetizer Buffet for $2.99

Go to http://www.carolinaalehouse.com/index.php for information on events and other specials.

I hope you all had a great Valentine's Day yesterday and did not get caught up in the exorbitant dinner prices and less than good service!

Happy Savings!
Thrifty

Tax Refunds

For you early birds who have already filed taxes, you can check on the status of your refund on the IRS website at:
https://sa2.www4.irs.gov/irfof/lang/en/irfofgetstatus.jsp

Wait at least 10 days after e-filing (and requesting a direct deposit) and 4 weeks (also with direct deposit) before making an enquiry.

Happy saving!
Thrifty

This is telephone contact information taken from the IRS website.

Live Telephone Assistance: When calling, you may ask questions to help you prepare your tax return, or ask about a notice you have received.

Telephone Assistance for Individuals:Toll-Free, 1-800-829-1040 Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. your local time (Alaska & Hawaii follow Pacific Time).

Telephone Assistance for Businesses:Toll-Free, 1-800-829-4933Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. your local time (Alaska & Hawaii follow Pacific Time).

Telephone Assistance for Exempt Organizations, Retirement Plan Administrators, and Government Entities:Toll-Free, 1-877-829-5500Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Central Time.

Some specific services are not available during the full hours of operation.
Exceptions are as follows:
Complex tax law calls are answered Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Central Time. Basic Employer Plans (EP) tax law calls are answered 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time.

Telephone Assistance for people with hearing impairments:Toll-Free 1-800-829-4059 (TDD)Hours of Operation: Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. your local time (Alaska & Hawaii follow Pacific Time).For further information, see Tax Topic 102.

Telephone Assistance for people who live outside the United StatesHours of availability vary by location. Please see our International Services page. Face-to-Face AssistanceIn certain areas, IRS also has local offices you may visit to receive assistance.

Happy filing!
Thrifty

Great Harvest Bakery, Cary

Anyone who would like a coupon for a buy one, get one free loaf of bread from Great Harvest Bakery in Cary (Maynard and High House) can email me.

Yummy bread!
Thrifty

Kroger coupons and Autozone free services

Groceries: Sign up at http://www.kroger.com/mykroger/Pages/default.aspx and receive information on sales and e-coupons. If you would like to try out the e-coupons page before signing up, go to:
http://www.kroger.com/in_store/Pages/savings_offers.aspx for this week's coupons.

DIY Guys
Car tools: If you need a specialty (and usually expensive!) tool to fix your car, go to Autozone and make use of their "Loan-a-tool-service". You leave a deposit with them, use the tool, return the tool and receive your deposit back. For a complete list of tools, go to http://www.autozone.com/in_our_stores/loan_a_tool/loan_a_tool.htm They also offer free testing of certain parts and free battery charging. Vehicle repair guides can be found on their site at http://www.autozone.com/shopping/repairGuide.htm and there is a trouble shooting page as well.

Happy saving!
Thrifty

Tax time

It's that time of year again, but there is no need to get stressed out. If you have a simple situation and you're filing your own taxes, remember to go to www.irs.gov or call 1-800-829-1040 for information or if you need help.

There are several online sites where you can e-file your federal return free. Remember though that state filing is not free on these sites. If you choose to e-file and use direct deposit for your refund, processing time is about 10 days. Filing on paper takes about 4 - 6 weeks.

Paying a tax preparer can be well worth the money if your situation is not simple. Always ask for the fee upfront and don't use a tax preparer that charges a percentage of your refund. Stay away from the "rapid refunds", "instant refunds" or "refund anticipation loans". The fees that go with these loans are exorbitant and as I mentioned, you could get your refund in 10 days if you file electronically and choose to have your refund deposited directly into your bank account.

Feel free to contact me with simple tax questions.

Happy filing!
Thrifty

Timing is everything!

There's a best time of day, month or year to shop for certain items.

Groceries: Most grocery stores discount their goods that are close to the expiration date, first thing in the morning. So, shopping mid-morning gives you a chance to save on meat, fruit and vegetables. To make sure it's a saving, use the meat within a day or two or freeze it. Consume fruit and vegetables within a day or two or cut up and freeze.

Car wash: Some car washes have off-peak prices. Autowash in Apex has $2.00 off from 8am - 9am and 6pm - 8pm.

Eating out: Some restaurants have certain days when kids eat free or at a discount. Ice-cream stores have certain items on special depending on the day of the week. Similarly, some restaurants have drinks specials on different days of the week. Get to know when your favorite places have your favorites on special so you can save without even having to clip a coupon!

Car buying: This can be a complex one, so for more detailed information, go to http://blogs.consumerreports.org/cars/2007/08/car-buying.html
The quick answer seems to be month end. The last two days of the month or the last weekend of the month. The end of the summer is also a good time as the winter months are generally slow, so car dealers try to get rid of inventory before that. If you're buying in the winter, go on a really cold day near the end of the day. My husband recently struck a good deal on a really cold day at about 5pm. This sure was a serendipitous experience!

If you have any tips for our fellow readers, please feel free to email me.

Happy savings!
Thrifty

Rebates

Rebates can be time consuming and tedious at the best of times, but can save you quite a bit. Just recently I bought a PC with a $200.00 mail in rebate. That's a rebate worth mailing in!

To make sure that your rebate is processed as quickly as possible, follow the tips below:

1. Make sure the rebate offer has not expired when shopping retail and that the cashier hands you the correct coupon (if a coupon is required).

2. Read the fine print and make sure you follow all instructions to the T!

3. The infamous UPC and sales receipt is required for most rebates. Do not send copies, but keep copies of everything yourself. You will need a copy of the receipt and possibly the UPC should you have a problem with the product after mailing off your rebate.

4. Mailing out material and tracking - Depending on the amount the rebate, consider sending all of the rebate information using US Certified Mail. Certified Mail provides you with a mailing receipt. A record is kept at the post office of delivery. A return receipt can also be purchased for an additional fee, although available only with First-Class and Priority Mail. (http://www.usps.gov/ for more information)

5. Checking Your Mail - Some reports say that up to 50% of rebate checks are never cashed. This is because they can look like junk mail when they arrive in your mailbox. Don't throw out junk mail so easily when expecting a rebate - it may not look like money, but it is! Also, ensure you cash your check right away. Most rebate checks need to be cashed within a limited time, some as little as 14 days. Just deposit or cash it right away.

6. Returning a product after the rebate has been sent out - check on the policy of the store regarding this issue.

7. Make photocopies of everything! This warrants repeating. This helps if your rebate does not arrive in time and you need make an enquiry or if you have a problem with your item and need to have it exchanged/replaced.

8. Mark your calendar or set a reminder on your cell phone for a certain date to check if you have received your rebate. Some rebates take up to 8 weeks and by then you may have forgotten that you are due a rebate.

Happy savings!
Thrifty

Leapfrog sale

http://www.leapfrog.com/ is having a 70% off sale at the moment, while stocks last. It's a good time to grab some fun stuff for the kids!

Watch out for my blog on rebates tomorrow.

Have saving!
Thrifty

Airfare specials

Right now a number of airlines are having sales. www.skybus.com is the link to Skybus which flies out of Greensboro for this area. They say they have 10 seats for $10 (plus taxes) on each flight, although I have not found any yet. The other prices start at $40 per ticket, one way.

Jetblue and Airtran also have some deals going albeit not in the same low price range of Skybus.

Happy Saving!
Thrifty

Sales and coupons

This week, January 6 - 12, Target is selling GE 13 W compact fluorescent light bulbs for $4.99, buy 1 get 1 free! That's a super saving on these light bulbs. Remember they last 8 - 10 times longer than regular bulbs and use between 70 and 75% less energy!

In this week's Sunday paper, there is a coupon for $2.25 for a box of electrasol tabs. That's a saving of nearly 50% (Harris Teeter sells a box of 20 for $4.99) or up to 78%! These tabs cost $2.89 for a box of 20 at Target. That's a cost of only $0.64 out of pocket before tax!

Happy saving!
Thrifty

Triple coupon days

My hot tip today is the triple days at Harris Teeter from January 3 through January 5, 2008. This means that your coupon will be tripled up to a 99c value. Limit is 20 coupons per household per day. A .75c coupon is then worth $2.25! If you stick to items for which you have coupons, you will pay for example $20 for a $60 purchase!

Here’s to triple savings!
Thrifty