You can take the girl out of Kansas but you can’t take the Kansas out of the girl. Representing our Kansas City Royals in the new shirt Jesse bought me and cheering them on as they head to the World Series!!
So, I’ve been a little quiet here the past two days.
Tuesday we had some big meetings here in Nashville with a team of people to discuss some future projects we’re working on (I’m just about ready to burst with excitement — more details coming soon!) and then we went over to hang out with some friends and watch the Royals game.
Our Nashville friends are {mostly} all rooting with us for our boys from Kansas City with us and we keep getting multiple generous offers to please come hang out while the games are on so that we can watch the games on real cable TV instead of our creative non-cable solution. 🙂
Wednesday morning, I got up in the wee hours of the morning to finish two business projects that were due yesterday. And well, by the time they were done, I was so tired, that I went back to bed at 8 a.m. and slept for a few hours. I guess my body was behind on sleep!
At any rate, it was so nice because we stayed home all day long yesterday. I never even made it out of my yoga pants. And a quiet day at home was just what my soul needed.
The highlight of yesterday was definitely the Royals winning and making it to the WORLD SERIES! If you know my husband, you know what a HUGE deal this is. I’m just so happy for him… this has been a dream of his since he was a little boy and he never believed it would actually happen. And it HAS!
Today, I finally got around to making the Starbucks Inspired Hot Cocoa that reader, Amber, shared with me a few days ago. She’d left a comment saying that they had made it and loved it… so naturally, because I love all things Starbucks, I asked her if she’d share the recipe. She graciously emailed it to me along with details.
I took the recipe and Trim Healthy Mama-fied it. So here’s the original recipe + my tweaks:
Starbucks Inspired Hot Cocoa
3 cups whole milk (I used one cup half and half + 2 cups almond milk.)
6 Tablespoons cocoa powder
2 Tablespoons coconut oil
4 Tablespoons sweetener of choice (I used Xylitol.)
1 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 oz. espresso
Pinch of Kosher salt
Put it all in Vita-mix and use the hot soup option (or start on 1 and gradually increase to 8 and leave there for 5-7 minute, until hot). If you don’t have a Vita-Mix, I’d recommend bringing it to a boil on the stove top, stirring constantly.
Serve immediately. Makes 4-6 servings.
We all agreed that this was very yummy! And it is definitely something I’ll be making again. It was so easy to make and such a fun treat — and much less expensive than Starbucks!
Tell Us How You Saved & You Could Win a $50 Starbucks Gift Card
How did YOU save today? Just for fun, I’m giving away a $50 Starbucks gift card to one reader who leaves a comment on this post telling us how you saved. I’ll choose and post a winner tomorrow.
This giveaway is over with and the winner is Jessi (admin@). You should have received an email with information on how to claim your prize.
The winner of this week’s earlier Mrs. Meyer’s giveaway is Riza {missriza@}. You should have received an email with details on how to claim your prize.
kasey says
saved money by cleaning the house instead of hiring someone!
Tiffany says
Can the hot cocoa recipe be kept warm in a crockpot without separation? I want to make this for a yard sale Saturday 😀 Thank you for the recipe!
Crystal Paine says
Hmm, I’m not sure on that. Let us know if you try it!
Stacy Moss says
I saved by finding substitute ingredients for a recipe I wanted to make, but did not want to go to the store and buy what I didn’t have. 🙂
Annie C. says
Went on a walk at the park for some family fun! It was a beautiful day here in Texas.
Jessica says
We just moved and left our built-in desk with filing cabinet behind. I was tempted for several weeks to go out and buy a new filing cabinet. Instead, I spent the day cleaning and found a perfect spot for our files in one of the cabinets in our new house. I kept the files in the moving box (where they fit perfectly), trimmed the box a bit, and voila! my free filing cabinet!
sharon says
Used shell gas card to save .03 a gallon.
Christine says
We saved this week by packing our own lunch instead of buying food at the State Fair.
Jackie says
i make cook at home and do my own kefir yogurt. I always pack a small cooler with water and snacks for the kids.
Linda G says
Took the time to make a grocery list and organized coupons to go with my list. Used several high value coupons before they expired.
Theresa L says
Hey, Crystal! I’m life long Red Sox fan (as a New England girl, it’s kind of a pre-requisite!) and I was THRILLED they won last year, but I’m rooting for your Royals this year. They were not even contenders for SO long that it’s nice to see them in the Series!
Tammy says
I saved by packing lunch for the zoo trip rather than eating there.
SooJin says
I saved by using leftovers to make lunch for my kids and me!
Mark says
I saved today by making my kids a picnic style lunch instead of fast food. We had cheese, crackers, bananas, almond butter and pretzels.
Tracy says
I saved today by a Random Act of Kindness at Starbucks actually. The person in the drive thru line before me paid for my Mocha Latte and pumpkin bread. I paid for the person behind me. Then later on this afternoon, I got another Mocha Latte and paid for the person behind me. I hope I made someone smile today and maybe made their day a little happier. Just like someone did for me.
april edens says
I shopped at Aldis instead of my usual grocery store….saved $30!
Wendy Sanders says
I used Gas Buddy app to find the cheapest prices for mid grade gas in my area!
Anna says
Before heading out for the day, I made my husband a cup of coffee to go and a cup of homemade hot cocoa for me, so we wouldn’t be tempted to stop while driving.
Jackie Brown says
Oh let me count thy ways: packed my husband, daughter, son and my own lunch for work, drank tap water instead of bottled, took my own coffee and popcorn to game and went grocery shopping after I had a snack and with a list 🙂
april says
I saved by canning homemade applesauce. I bought a half bushel that came out to only 32-cents per pound! I used jars that I already have and lids that I bought on sale. I keep the skins on and puree them with the apples, that adds some fiber and the only waste is the core. The added bonus is that I used Jonathon apples so the sauce is a beautiful dark pink!
Jilli says
Instead of driving our daughter to an event at the neighborhood school, we walked her up. When it’s over we will walk back up and get her.
No gas used and we got a bit of exercise 🙂
Renee Anderson says
We created an at home game of hungry hungry hippo with a boot box and plastic balls from our ball pit! Tons of fun and lots of exercise/energy burn for the little ones!
Cathy F. says
I saved today by raking all of our leaves the old fashion way. It was a savings because I didn’t use fuel for the leaf blower or pay someone else to do it for me. It was better for my budget, the environment and my biceps! 🙂
Katy P says
I gathered up a van load full of toys, etc that we don’t really need and am having a yard sale in the morning. I also saved by taking advantage of the free books at our library instead of buying any new ones.
Christine W. says
The biggest way I saved today was by making my kids cute felt ornaments for their Christmas presents instead of buying something at the store. I used felt from last Christmas. I also meal-planned for the next week with recipes that we had most ingredients for already and if I had to buy items (e.g. cilantro), I made sure we could use it for another recipe instead of wasting it.
Cynthia says
I hung my clothes outside to dry and made fabric softener from vinegar & lavender lowers.
Arianna says
May the best team win!
I’m in the Bay Area and we are cheering for the San Francisco Giants!
Amanda Y. says
Had a homemade dinner (with eggs as the protein) vs. the order out pizza I really wanted! 🙂
Denise says
I made a homemade coffee latte this afternoon for myself instead of stopping by for my usual Dunkin’ Donut latte.
Megan says
I waited to go to the grocery store to get a few things until the whole family went to the hardware store since we were going to drive past it anyways instead of making a special trip.
Cheri Sheehy says
My family was almost out of kcups and our local convenience had them for b1g1f (7.99 ea). I got 4 boxes for the price of 2! Plus they usually have bananas at a great price of .38/lb., but when they get over ripe, they mark doen to .25/lb. bought 15 lbs-will eat some now, plus froze some for smoothies and bread. Uploaded recept to checkout 51 for the .25 back on bananas. Spent $19 at the store and saved $18. Plus sold some items on our towns online rummage sale and made $50!!
Amy says
My husband fixed a clogged drain….Yay..no plumber needed!!
Kandice says
The closest Target is a 45 minute drive, so I researched coupons and competitor’s prices before and during my trip there.
Crystal says
How I saved today: I exercised at home – running on rebounder. I earned 99 SwagBucks and 25 Bing rewards. My Mom took me out for lunch, and I saved the leftovers to have for dinner. My husband is working tonight so it’s just me for dinner, so that makes my dinner free.
Peggy K says
Continued to pick apples from our trees to make applesauce and pie filling. So much cheaper and healthier than store bought!
Heidi says
We are HUGE Royals fans here in KC! To save $, I bought royal blue t-shirts for our 3 kiddos @ Jo-Ann’s as they were on sale for 3/$9 this week! I bought some inexpensive Royals iron ons too! This was MUCH cheaper than buying youth t-shirts at full retail price which are averaging $15 – $25 a piece online or at local stores! Our kids’ school has been having Royals spirtwear days during playoffs, so they’re SUPER excited to wear their new shirts for the World Series games! Go Royals!!!
Crystal Paine says
I LOVE this!
Cindy says
I used an empty Starbucks bag to get a free cup of coffee at Starbucks today.
Lisa says
I saved by researching which urgent cares were still open after 8 p.m. instead of heading to the ER when my daughter needed stitches last night… :/
Amber says
I took a lot of clothes to a consignment store. I don’t miss them, and now I’ve got store credit to update my wardrobe instead of spending money on new clothes!
Wendy Lee says
We ate at home all week. Not a big deal for some families, but we usually eat out at least once. Home cooked meals are money savers for us.
sarah o. says
We ate leftovers today instead of eating out. We also made new crayons from pieces of broken ones instead of buying a brand new box.
Ellie says
As a KCMO resident, I am loving this post!!! We are all Royaling so hard here!
Crystal Paine says
🙂
Maureen C says
Go Royals!
Temps in So Fl are in the 60s at night and low 80s during the day with low humidity so we turned off the A/C yesterday. It’s so nice to open the windows. Much louder, but so nice to let the freah air in.
Tina Mugglin says
I stayed home!
Olivia Mullins says
Instead of buying pine straw for our flower beds I gathered up all the pine straw my neighbor had raked out of his yard and put out for trash. I then raked my pine straw and will rake some pine straw out of the street to Finnish the project. Definitely a lot of work, but it will save us about $100
Brenna says
I packed a snack pack full of healthy treats for my daughter while she ran errands with my husband. They won’t need to stop for “snacks”s later & I know that she is eating something nutritional.
Melissa says
Today I uploaded my WalMart receipt to Savings Star. That program really works. Even with our ad matching and coupons. I somehow still missed $3.77 last week! I was worried this program was crap.
Kristy says
I saved by fixing my coffee at home this morning, rather than stopping by McDonald’s!
Kim Loomis says
I chose not to order an item online! Didn’t need it!
Angela K says
Received my foaming hand soap pump in the mail from Amazon today. Also, I had asked my mother-in-law if she had an empty bottle that I could have and she brought one over today. So I made 2 foaming hand soaps today!!! And this was totally inspired by your post. I am pretty money saving savy and usually have a hard time thinking of new ways to save, but I had never thought of this. Genius!!!
Kris says
Just wanted to say thank you! We have saved in soo many ways because of your site. To name only one:
This week got we bought 2 Up&Up Target brand diapers size 6 104 pack for about $25. Almost like buy one get one free! Found out about the deal because of this website, and details how to get it
Crystal Paine says
Yay! This makes me so happy!
Kristen says
I’m currently refreshing my towels by washing with vinegar and baking soda instead of giving into the temptation to buy new towels .
Melissa says
I made homemade Italian Dressing Mix with ingredients that I already had on hand. It’s healthier, too!
Kylee says
Instead of buying draino I used a plunger in the kitchen sink to unclog a backup. I’m sure this was not the best practice but it did save me 8.00 and the sink is working. Hahaha
Brandy Fisk says
We used a coupon to go to the Fontenelle Forest for free today. It was a free field trip and we packed a picnic lunch to enjoy there too.
Jackie Blanchard says
Getting ready for our camping weekend in charge of food. Instead of buying a bunch of new things I looked in the pantry and made snacks out of what we already had. We even had a box of brownie mix! Everyone will enjoy these treats and I’m glad I saved a little $$.
Amanda Holloway says
I saved my sanity by getting a Starbucks! I was having a really bad day and decided to treat myself to a Chai Tea Latte.
Kathryne says
I picked up a movie from the library for our family to watch this weekend instead of renting one.
Darcy Dugan says
I saved today by bringing my breakfast (cereal, milk and coffee) and lunch (manicotti) from home (to work)!
Kimberly in NC says
I hung cloth diapers up to dry on my rack in the laundry room.
Cambria says
I saved by going to a FREE community event for an evening activity! Love that our town does these and that our little one looks so forward to them 🙂
becky says
I saved by packing a snack for my son while out shopping so i wouldn’t be tempted to buy him one in the store.
Jessica says
Today my husband is repairing our dryer instead of buying a new one or calling a repairman.
Allie Dunn says
Went through my house and unplugged things we were not using so we could save on electric.
Christina says
I just sold some great pieces on ebay! Yippee!
Michele says
Found the perfect picture for our
bathroom re-do at a yard sale.
Kelli says
Go Royals! We live in Nebraska, but my husband was born and raised near Kansas City, MO. Emotions are on high in his (and my) family with the Royals in the World Series. So exciting!
Carla says
Like another commenter, I just hung a load of laundry out to dry. It’s rained all week here in Michigan, so it’s a treat!
Angel says
Due to the DIY project in the kitchen I ordered pizza. Instead of purchasing paper plates I asked the pizza place and they provided them for free! We had our drinks and pizza at home which was cheaper than eating out and with plastic cups we already had in the house, I had no dishes… which is really good when I also have no access to my sink!
Stephanie says
I used old socks on my swiffer instead of buying more swiffer pads. Better for my budget and the environment!
Jen smith says
My baby boy is almost 7 months old and way overdue for pictures. I’ve been meaning to contact a photographer. Instead, I borrowed my mom’s nice camera and took baby to the back yard amongst the greenery and fall foliage. Not only did we save a lot of money, it was entertaining! Dad, big brother & big sister joined the fun trying to make baby smile as they stood all around me. 🙂
Karen says
I saved by not visiting the grocery store when out of one item & making due till the next scheduled visit!!
Jennifer says
Made my coffee at home vs. getting Starbucks!
Margy Richardson says
Trying not to touch the bank account for groceries this month so today I sold a few things on a local site and plan to use the money for our groceries this month.
Heather @ My Mothermode says
Today, I think our heat came on for the first time this year, but I did not have to worry! Our attic space is finally insulated thanks to a DIY project, so no more hot or cold air blowing straight through the ceiling. Our home is much quieter with the A/C and heat staying off a lot more. The power bills are dropping!
Trish says
We share rides with another family to get out kids to and from school. The Mom of the other family works a few days each week and I work everyday, so today we would have both been at work when our kids got out of school. Instead of paying for after school care my husband went to work early so he could leave early to get all the kids. This saved both families money, so it was a win/win 🙂
Monica says
I am taking advantage of the Halloween candy sales pairing them with coupons to get an awesome deal to fill a piñata for both of my daughters’ Birthday party that we are having together to save even more money!
Rachel says
I’ve been saving lately by making my own lattes at home with my favorite new toy: my $6 milk frother! I think they may even taste better than buying one! I love me some starbucks but not their prices.
Jennifer B. says
I saved by “making do” with what I had on hand for dinner. After grocery shopping in the morning, you’d think I would have come home with all that was necessary for dinner, but I neglected to purchase shredded lettuce for our tacos. I had already planned to utilize cherry tomatoes we had left from a veggie tray instead of buying a Roma, but just “spaced” the lettuce need. We don’t buy iceberg lettuce except as shreds (spoiled, I know), so we didn’t have any on hand. I cut up some spinach and used that instead and it was actually very good.
catherine says
We’re expecting another baby and are looking for a bringing home outfit. Instead of just going to all of the stores and finding one, I went to the one for which we already had a gift card. It was like a free outfit and I don’t feel bad for not having a new going home outfit for the baby
Kaila says
I saved by purchasing my son’s Halloween costume from a consignment sale…for $3!!
sherry says
Decorated with current items rather than buying new ones, all meals made at home.
Kim says
I brought lunch to work all week!!!
Lisa says
W00t! Didn’t know you were from Kansas! Me too! <3 the Royals!
Angela B. says
Good Luck to the Royals…my husband is a huge Giants fan so he was very excited last night when they beat the Cardinals to make it into the World Series. It’s gonna be great to watch both teams.
Lily Smith says
We are saving by getting X-Men: Days of Future Past from the library for our weekly Friday night movie and having home cooked popcorn snack.
Elizabeth says
We ate sandwiches and salad in the park instead of heading to the nearby McDonald’s when we were done.
Suzie says
Keeping up with my Swagbucks daily goal so I can make my first 21 day bonus next week. Saving for a Christmas present for my honey.
Krystal says
Today is usually a day I go out with coworkers for lunch. I brought mine instead. (trying to pinch some pennies!)
Heater says
I saved by buying great clearance-priced socks and tights in a size ahead for my girls to wear next spring! Only $1.18 for a 3 pack of cute socks!
Lynn L says
It was my birthday on the 15th so I used the many, many free or nearly free coupons that I am mailed yearly when the birthday rolls around. Free merchandise, free entrees, coffee drinks, desserts, really too much to do it all. It’s always a fun week of freebies this time of year for me! Yay!
Sherri Martinez says
I’m going to make chicken stock in the from chicken bones of the chicken I made earlier in the week. Tastes so much better than store bought and with my slow cooker it’s easy peasy. Glamorous, right?
Kirbee N. says
My husband is heading today to a bike race event in Omaha for his birthday (crazy, I know). Instead of spending the money on a hotel, he asked around and found a place to pitch his tent for the night. It might be chilly (he does have a down sleeping bag and some good wool blankets), but I appreciate so much that he’s saving us so much money by NOT getting himself a hotel room.
Beth says
Shelled almonds from our tree so free almonds….made dinner at home….took a walk with my daughter after dinner for exercise.
Danielle says
I bought fabric to make my baby a Halloween costume rather than spend double on a store bought costume. Also wanted to add that is a cute pic of you! Glad to see you looking so happy!
Tori says
My husband registered his email address on his GM card (that has a zero balance) and we got a $10 starbucks card! Great little treat!!
ashley says
my hubby cooked dinner, when I said “here’s the deal you can either cook or I’m going to get pizza” he’s a keeper! 🙂
Ryan Williams says
We bought the diapers at Target with the coupon and cartwheel you told me about!! It broke down to 9 cents a diaper. Thank you!!
jenna says
Packed lunch for work!
Busy Mama says
The kids had a home ed Geography Fair tonight, and I made sure they ate at home before we left to avoid the inevitable, “I’m hungry,” when we were in town. I saved the cost of Subway!
becky davis says
stayed home, made breakfast, lunch and supper at home, washed and hung outside a load of clothes, made a loaf of bread and a pound cake, haven’t ordered anything off of the computer for almost a month.
Ashley says
We saved by waiting an extra day for grocery shopping.
chantel says
We were invited, by a local realtor, to a free pumpkin patch trip last night. Normal price was $6.00 per person, so we saved $36.00. It was fun for our little ones and we got tons of great pics.
jenny says
Our vacuum broke so I’m using the shop vac instead which we own instead of buying a new vacuum
Kristy says
I really need to go out to the store, but since I work in the morning, I’m going after work to save gas and combine trips!
Angie says
Go Royals! We are life long Royals fans too, and are soooo excited about the World Series! Here’s how I saved on my Royals shirt (purchased long ago). A woman’s medium is about the same size as a youth XL, so I purchased a boy’s XL shirt for myself, which was about half the cost of a women’s shirt. Granted, it’s not quite as cute as the women’s shirts, but I figure I’ll a woman’s shirt on sale some time, and then eventually my boys will be big enough to fit into the XL (sooner than I care to think about!)
Crystal Paine says
Way to go — so creative!
Beth says
Yes! I’ve done this for gym shorts too– it depends on the style, but sometimes I find some that work really well! Not as cute, but they get the job done!
Emily says
We were on a short trip to the Mall of America but we used lots of coupons to get some great deals!
Amber J says
I found an recumbent exercise bike at a thrift store for only $20 (Walmart retail value of $169). Perfect condition except for some tears in the vinyl seat covering. So I bought $2.97 worth of a fun patterned vinyl at Walmart, dug out my husbands staple gun, and within an hour I had a BETTER than new piece of custom work out equipment!
Emily says
Today I’m going to save by cooking dinner at home then going to a local fall festival – cheap/free date night!
Vickie says
Today I’m canning apple slices from the bushel of apples we bought.
Joleen says
We have a big fund raiser event tonight — a formal affair. Rather than buying a new dress, I am going to wear one I already had in the closet. I am going to accessorize to the party theme – with items already in my jewelry box. So, rather than buy a new outfit I only needed to buy $1 worth of bobby pins at the Dollar Store this morning for my 50’s up do that my co-worker so generously agreed to do for me (saving the time and cost of the beauty saloon) since I am a failure at doing my hair!
Rachael says
We ate in our hotel room during a conference stay instead of eating expensive room service (the hotel is far from restaurants and grocery stores too).
Amy says
Discovered my daughter has a shortage of all/winter dresses – discovered that a skirt/top she already owned with the addition of a cardigan (which we also owned.)
JenniferV says
I made a graham cracker crust from scratch rather than buying it premade. Cheaper and it looks nicer in my pie plate than a metal, disposable pan!
Barb says
I earn swagbucks to buy birthday and Christmas gifts. I shop with coupon deals to stock up Christmas gifts too. Gift shopping all year long for clearance items saves me lots too.
Nancy says
Yesterday I babysat for some extra money, $40 for an hour and a half… plus they gave me cash as a late birthday present! That’ll be my grocery money for the week and I won’t even have to touch my actual paycheck!
Sweta says
Got free movie tickets by using my Bing rewards and an old AMC gift card that I’ve had forever.
Krystal says
Listed Items we are getting rid of to sell! Hopefully they will! & I stayed home all day with kids even though I felt like shopping but realized it wasn’t urgent 🙂
Andrea Curtis says
Today, we are staying home! If we don’t go out, we won’t be spending any money 🙂
Lauren says
I just did three loads of laundry and hung them to dry – we can’t hang them outside so every square inch of my house is covered in hanging wet laundry! It may look a little funny, but it’s saving me money by not using my dryer. 🙂
Jessi Fearon (@TheBudgetMama) says
Thank you so much for sharing this! 🙂
Today, I saved by cancelling our Sunday Newspaper subscription. I used to be a coupon queen but now that I shop primarily at Aldi, I hardly use coupons anymore. It simply is not worth the cost of paying for a subscription on the off-chance that there will be coupon that I actually need.
I can’t wait to try this recipe!
Sarah B. says
I used what I had in the fridge to make “scrappy nachos” instead of thawing another meal or running to the store.
Elaine says
I cooked a huge amount of French toast w/ bread that I bought from our bakery discount store for 50 cents a loaf..and it was organic! It is going into the freezer for easy meals.
elisabeth says
I bought an odwalla smoothie that was marked down and used a dollar off coupon. My daughter and I had a delicious smoothie with our breakfast for only .69.
Amara says
We purchased clothing at Goodwill– whopping grand total of $3.98 for a couple of sweet dresses for my baby girl. So much fun!
Danielle says
I found a recipe for Sweet n Sour chicken (which is one of our favorites at the Chinese place nearby). it was literally SO EASY–I had everything on hand, even! It was delicious and we actually preferred it to the $20 we pay for our family to get it out!
Katie G says
I made my own sugar scrub instead of going to a salon!
Jodi Epps says
I brown-bagged my lunch instead of eating out.
Randi says
We’re eating out the fridge and pantry this weekend…not a super exciting way to save money, but it is effective in getting rid of leftovers 🙂
Amy Lauren says
I saved by eating leftovers for dinner instead of going out with friends. I think I might try your Starbucks hot cocoa recipe too!
Kendra says
I bought some gently used-new-to-me shorts on $1 day at Goodwill as well as a new and sealed in the box game for $4.75 that’s $18+ on Amazon that my children have been wanting!
gloria says
Today I saved by utilizing the ideas from Money Saving Mom and bought from Target the personal hygenine products for a steal. I also vacummed my car at home instead of using an expensive vacum at a car detailer.
Karalee says
We found a 1/2 bushel of gala apples on sale for $7!! They make great apple sauce! Just cubed them up and threw them in the crockpot with a couple of cinnamon sticks. Delicious & without all the preservatives!
Crystal Paine says
What a great deal!
Flora says
I love bargain everything so it’s hard to chose but my most recent saving strategy ( which my boys love, and I love that they love, ha!) was using coupons at the grocery store saving us $24 dlls! I LOVE Starbucks everything too but often make my own Chai Tea at home but love to splurge going to Starbucks on special occasions! Thank you for the hot cocoa idea !
ann says
We took a trip to the State Park and enjoyed the trails and a “Fall Tram Tour” (both free). We took snacks and lunch from home, and shared the ride with family members. We had a great “free” day! 😀
Kalyn says
I saved money by bringing my lunch instead of going out.
Mary says
Took all of the empty soda cans back for the deposit when I went grocery shopping.
Allyson @ All Our Days says
We used Swagbuck TV to get more bucks and I uploaded my grocery receipts to snap and checkout51.
Heather Schneider says
An odd one, but we FINALLY convinced my mother in law that she really needed to go to rehab instead of our home or her home as she left the hospital yesterday. She was too needy medically for us to really help her properly and her home was not an option as it currently takes two people to help her stand. Why is this a money saver? Rehab will cost her $25/day and she should not have to stay very long. If she tried to come to our house we would have spent almost $300 on items to help her (bedside commode, rubber sheets, bed railing/cane, and such) and if we got her home and couldn’t make it work insurance may not have covered rehab, but they do when it is direct from hospital. So crazy, but true that we saved money by getting more (short term) health care for her!
Lindsey says
We turned the heat down two degrees below normal.
Laura says
Thanks to Google and YouTube, instead of calling someone about or freezer that is leaking I was able to buy the correct part and follow the video showing me how to replace it!! No more puddles on my kitchen floor for he cost of a small $16 part : )
Elizabeth says
I had a lot of leftovers in the fridge and we have been eating creative versions of leftovers for dinner for the past 3 days. So far my family has not complained and I’ve been glad I could use up the food before it went to waste.
ashley lins says
i helped my son save – picking a toy that was on sale when he went on a shopping trip to spend his birthday gift card 🙂
Mona says
I’ve been using the PO’s free pick up service (you have to have one priority or express mail package). Whenever I have packages to mail from my etsy shop, I print the labels the night before and schedule a pick up for the next day. That means no special trip to the PO (it isn’t near any place we normally go).
Debbie James says
I used my coupons to get starbucks for my son who just returned from a year deployment in Iraq.
Robin Y says
My kids wanted to go to Central Market for dinner & to play on their playground afterwards (yes, they have a playground!). I knew that for all of us to eat there would cost $20-25. I made my own dinner out of leftovers at home, then bought my kids’ dinner at Central Market. I allowed myself a small indulgence there so I wouldn’t feel deprived. Worked out wonderfully, and I save at least $8!
Erin M says
I have to get continuing ed hours for my counseling license, but going to workshops can get very pricey, so I’m finding ones that I can use online & locally that are offered for free! So far, I’m working on a 10 CEU workshop online that’s free & a friend invited me to 2 different free workshops her employer is offering!
Kaylee says
I stayed home all day, and didn’t spend any money by doing so!
Lee Privette says
We use the reserve system at our library. Since we homeschool we need books on a lot of different topics, so instead of spending a mint in books we reserve the and pick them up at the front desk. It’s so nice to have them all I one place! We’ve even been able to borrow some curriculum from our library.
Carly says
We had ice cream at home instead of going out for ice cream!
Tina says
I saved by staying home all day instead of going shopping like I wanted to. Since I was home, I decided to try and make money so I listed clothes we no longer wear on Ebay. On ebay I posted things as auctions because those are free and buy it nows cost money. I also made bread from scratch instead of going and buying it at the store.
Emily f says
We need to bring desserts for several meals for a church event this weekend. I made them all from scratch and said no to several recipes that required ingredients I didn’t already have.
A says
made soup for dinner in the crock pot, great on a rainy day!
Anna says
We had date night at Chick-fil-a using a coupon, giftcard and a couple dollars.
Ruth says
I canned tomatoes given to us from a friend. We pureed them to use to make sauce in the winter
Becky Przy says
I made my own laundry detergent, so easy and cheap!
Corey Lesko says
Picked up some cardboard boxes
Someone had they no longer needed and will use those to turn them into games for a fall festival we are having at church instead of buying poster board like I originally thought.
Christine says
I used a coupon today, something I almost never do!
Tina says
I am planning on dyeing my hair for the first time, and instead of paying the high prices of having it done at a hair salon, I bought a $5 box of hair dye and will attempt to do it at home. Wish me luck!
Andrea Tindall says
Shredded old papers to use as packing material for our move and put the word out that we are looking for boxes and other packing items to family.
Tabitha Miller says
I bought summertime items like kids sprinklers, goggles, etc for 75% off at target to save for next year!
Julie says
its been a long week at work and home. A new biggby opened by us and sent out bogo free coupons so my hubby and I relaxed tonight with coffees from biggby using our coupon. Still deciding how they compare to starbucks 🙂
Jen says
I hung my laundry outside to dry. Last month I tried this as much as I could, and it saved $35 off of my electricity bill. $35 will add up over time! Looking forward to the extra savings! Also, my husband learned how to change the oil in our car, savings lots too!
Su says
I saved today by only buying groceries that I could use double coupons. thx
Rachel says
Had a very busy couple of days at work ahead of me. I usually stay at the office later and by the time I get home, I am so tired, we end up buying food. I got up early to make a double batch of beef stew in the crock pot. Had dinner when I got home from work ready and enough leftovers for a few additional meals.
Alison says
Wen my husband to turn n his nightstand light the other day for some reason it didn’t turn on. He then changed the lightbulb and it still didn’t work. So I took the shade of that light and stuck it on an old lamp. I had been searching high and low for a new shade and this did the trick!
Jessica says
I had my husband actually go to the library to check out books for his research project instead of buying them off amazon.
Kristan says
My kiddos used free tokens for the farmers market and purchased themselves apples for snacks. But mostly we just spent a bunch of $ to give gift cards to friends who lost their 3 month old baby a few days ago. I save $ so we can be generous when times like this arise! (Though I did also splurge on a kids hot chocolate at Starbucks for my 2 year old…hoping it didn’t include espresso like this recipe!)
Mary says
Made homemade apple butter in the crock pot and used swagbucks for all my web searching.
Ab.grace says
I got some great deals at Harris Teeter, super double coupon week!
Mindy says
Today I saved by bringing my own bags to the grocery store where they give me credit for every bag I use. It’s just 3 cents per bag, but every little bit each trip adds up. An added perk to being eco-friendly!
Aimee R says
I made a yummy pumpkin smoothie ( and healthy) instead of going to Starbucks. 🙂
Karissa says
I gave instead of saved today! 🙂
Joy A. says
My husband and I are also KC Royals fans and yes, them making it to the World Series is such a big deal and is awesome!! We also have been watching it on MLB.com since we do not have cable or regular tv reception. My husband’s brother has cable so he has been inviting us over to watch the games when he is not working.
Laurie says
Today we saved by making homemade applesauce & laundry detergent. Fun, frugal day with my three year old. 🙂
Katherine says
I saved by packing lunches for my kids. Buying at school costs $2.50.
Erin says
I packed my lunch today. I also let out a formal dress so a coworker wouldn’t have to buy one.
Kristen says
I saved money by skipping lunch and waiting until dinnertime to eat. I try to remember that there are much less fortunate countries than ours, where people eat much less often than twice per day. It’s so humbling.
Angelia Fairey says
I saved money today by buying the cheaper rolls at the grocery store today… They ended up being delicious!
Angela says
The rim of my sunglasses broke and I was about to throw them out and go buy a new pair…but I super glued it back together. You can barely notice where it’s glued unless you look real close!
Brighid says
I saved by not going anywhere and not buying anything. I didn’t buy extra onions for one recipe; I used shallots that I’d already stored from my garden. Leftover pasta and pesto from the freezer was part of dinner too.
Anne Marie says
My husband works for The Voice of the Martyrs, and he went with VOM to Nepal over the summer. The folks from Nepal who acted as their guides and translators are here in town, and so my husband wanted to invite them over for dessert or else take them out for dessert. I made a nice, traditional, all-American apple pie. Much tastier and less expensive than going to a restaurant for dessert.
monica says
Today I saved money by staying at home and balancing the checkbook 🙂
Diana Anderson says
I scored diapers at 3cents per!!!!
Erin Branscom says
I saved by “shopping” my library and placing books on gold instead of buying them off of Amazon! 🙂
Bridgette says
II saved by buying all stuff that was on sale for 40% off or more today!
Amanda says
We saved money today by using a Solofil cup instead of a K-cup in my Keurig. A bag of coffee goes a long way in a Solofil!
Beth says
Resisted impulse buy at walmart while looking at Halloween candy. Even though I thought about those darn candy apple m&m ‘s all day! Also got flu shots , hoping to escape the season of sick kids!
Krista abeyta says
I saved today by using coupons and cartwheel ( and getting a gift card back) buying much needed diapers at target. Also saved by avoiding starbucks at target too! Ate leftovers for lunch and dinner!
Jean says
Although I am traveling abroad right now, I still managed to save a little money today. I brought library books to read on the flights. Since our checkout time is 14 days and I will not be returning for 18 days, I need to renew while I’m away. Since my library website blocks incoming requests from Asia, I logged into my home server via “gotomycomputer.com” and logged in through my stateside internet connection. Voila, late fees avoided.
Crystal Paine says
That’s impressive! And I hope you have great travels!
Jean says
Thank you, sometimes you have to get creative when you travel to China. I also saved the cocoa recipe and am totally going to try it out when I get back home. 😉
susie h says
Made applesauce with Apple’s given to me. And ate from my garden for lunch again.
Nikki says
Today I saved by taking advantage of Harris Teeter’s double coupon week, in which they are doubling coupons up to $2.00! I scored some serious savings. 🙂
Alyssa says
I saved by resisting the urge to go to target, because I knew I would be incapable of not looking at the clothes/boot section 🙂
Jessica says
I clipped coupons for a future shopping trip!
Sara Cunningham says
Today I used a birthday reward from Starbucks that I have from having registered a gift card. I got a free drink and got to get out of the house for a little bit.
Tamah Collier says
I saved by using home made bathroom cleaner to clean my bathroom.
Debbie Fox says
I saved today by making my coffee at home (even tho stopping at Starbucks on my way to work was oh so tempting) and by having a homemade breakfast cookie for breakfast. I made a double batch last month and froze them individually to grab for a quick breakfast. I also convinced my daughter we should make tacos for supper instead of going to Taco Bell. Bleh! Mine are much better anyway!
Faith says
I hung the towels and sheets on the pulley wash line instead of using the dryer. Just crawled into bed and the sheets smell like fresh air and sunshine! 🙂
Ashley Bradford says
I decided to stay home all day rather than run to target “just for fun”. Those “just for fun trips” can get you in trouble!
Sarah says
I saved by making coffee at home instead of going to Starbucks!
Jean says
Our family all got our flu vaccinations today. Hopefully that will keep us from getting the flu and save us money in doctor visits and medicines.
Amanda says
I saved by doing my own yard work!
Cindy says
Making a handmade card and homemade treat for a friend with chronic illness.
Analisa says
I printed some coupons today. I find that printed coupons are way better than what I find in the paper, and I only print what I need. Since we have a black and white laser printer we bought (on sale) a few years ago it costs next to nothing to print. The toner is cheap and lasts forever.
Elizabeth says
I saved by not going through Starbucks on my way out of town this morning!
Ashley Flores says
I saved by not leaving the house! It’s small but I like to keep life simple 🙂
Hilary says
I saved today by utilizing my library- Did you know that most libraries will hold books, CDs, and DVDs for you upon request? My library handles all that through their website/my account. It is AWESOME for when you have little ones to take to the library! My almost 2-year old loves to pull the books off the shelves, so I try to spend the LEAST amount of time possible in the library itself! Most library days I will have movies, music CDs, story CDs for the kids, and books waiting for me- and I don’t even have to look through the shelves! Then we can enjoy Story Time without stress! It is also helpful for FREE resources for homeschool. If we are on a particular unit, I can request books on the subject without having to spend a lot of time at the library looking for them.
I also saved by cleaning out my coupon file. I found coupons that I did not even know I had that I can use THIS WEEK! Which was awesome because my grocery store just changed their coupon policy and some of the major competitor coupons I used to be able to use are obsolete now. But God is good- He always provides…even in the little ways!
Melanie says
We cleaned up all of our leftovers for dinner!
Brandi George says
I did really good today. I meal planned for next week and I waited to grocery shop until after I picked up my daughter from school. The market is on the way home from her school(saved gas). I then went to bj’s and bought diapers with coupons and used the bonus savings on gas to fill up my tank. I used the free air machine to fill up my tires and then when I got home my hubby did an oil change on my car himself. We bought the oil with a nice coupon I won from autozone. Not a bad day if I say so myself!
Meredith says
I saved money by making a batch of chai seed and yogurt puddings for breakfast and putting them in individual glass jars with a rotating date made function which I got for my birthday. They go in lunches and for breakfast on the road if we are going somewhere. Healthy and cheap and yummy!
Brandy says
Rather than running the AC we opened up the back door with screen.
Beth says
Ha! We turned the furnace back to 64 to keep it from running and we’re opening up the curtains to let the warm sunlight in during the day! It’s chilly here!!
Alexandra Fa says
I made dinner instead of going out to eat
Helen Lara says
I made 12 crockpot freezer meals: the soups and the ground beef. Alot of those call for canellini and black beans. Probably about 10 cans. Instead of buying all those cans, I saved by cooking my own beans and using them for the meals. Cheaper and healthier!
Katie says
I saved money today by making a picnic lunch for me and my son which we ate outside, when I had been tempted to just go through a drive thru and pick up something quick. I saved money and made memories! 🙂
Tammy says
I saved today by canning applesauce! My friend gave me 2 bushels of apples and I had enough left for 4 pints, which I made this afternoon. I’m so happy to say that we ate/put them all up! Now to get some more! 🙂
nora says
My husband is traveling on business next week. We worked it out that I could come with. Got someone to sit for us. Woohoo.
Heather says
I saved by utilizing produce from our garden. Our garden has been a huge source of savings this year and I’m so grateful for the blessing. I made roast for supper and ran to the garden and dug out some potatoes and carrots. Delicious, nutritious and cheap!
Melissa says
I shopped at CVS and used coupons and ECB to get some really good deals. I also stopped after work so as not to use extra gas for the trip.
Stephanie says
We celebrated a birthday this evening and made the cake instead of buying one from the bakery. Big savings!
harshamg says
I used 3 Krispy Kream coupons…got 3 free doughnuts. .along with additional 3 free doughnuts. .because as per their policy…u can get free doughnut if the fresh doughnuts are in procrss…
I had 2 h&m store gift card..which I got for free from gifting app..n I got 12 lacy panties for free..today those were for on deal .. at my LOCAL H&M STORE. .
SO TOTALLY win win…… awesome day.. 😉
Phoenix Sheffield says
I saved today by having freezer meals thawing in the fridge so when we rushed home after baseball practice dinner took me only a few minutes to heat up rather than getting fast food on the way home. I also make coffee at home daily. Starbucks is a rare treat. 🙂
ann in E. oregon says
Today I saved by making homemade bread and serving left-overs for supper! Also, my order from Tropical Traditions arrived today and I saved by buying my palm oil shortening on a 40% off + free shipping sale! :-))
Kristin W says
Today I saved by splitting a sandwich with my friend! We went out to lunch together, which was so fun, and decided to split a sandwich rather than each buy a whole one! Better for our wallets, better for our waists and the visiting was just good for my soul.
Meg says
Today I saved by buying a new cloth diaper 🙂 It cost a little more upfront but the trickle down savings are amazing!
Holly @ Holistic Holly says
Yum! I need to try this recipe soon! I saved today by cooking up the last of the squash produce I bought on sale 2 weeks ago because it was about to go bad. No food wasting here!
Annmarie says
I worked at home today. I paid no commuting or dry cleaning costs. I ate leftovers for breakfast and lunch, plus my own drinks and a snack. When I am at home, even when I work late, I am able to cook dinner, instead of any temptation to get take-out, and eat at a reasonable hour. I know people who drive to work in an expensive car, pay tolls and parking, use the “same day” dry cleaner on Saturdays because it is the only day they can get there before they close, and buy everything they eat from a restaurant. Most people cannot afford this, so they charge it and then pay interest on the balance. Ok, I would never do all of those things in a day, but when work is stressful, even frugal me might succumb to a Starbucks drink and a deli salad.
Becki @Running with Team Hogan says
I saved money today by remembering (at 10:30 pm) that it was the last day to change my amazon subscribe and save order. I had two items to postpone and found one other to order to keep my 20% off. I accidentally missed this one month and ordered an extra case of gluten-free lasagna noodles. Oops!
heidi says
I really do love reading these, but I think they would be more helpful if we didn’t include the standard “used coupons, ate at home, packed a lunch” stuff. Those are all awesome things we can do everyday, but i’d enjoy reading more original things we don’t do on a daily or weekly basis. Don’t at all mean to be critical, it’s just so time consuming to read through hundreds to find a few new ones.
Dee says
I brought stuff in to participate in my first-ever consignment sale today! I saved us money by (hopefully) earning a little–but also by not shopping while I was there, lol.
OFG says
I Lowered my tv bill but asking for a lower rate and decreasing the number of channels we receive.
jen keith says
Refried beans in the crockpot, my absolute favorite bean recipe!
Jen Smith says
Today the mailman brought three books I requested from paperbackswap.com and I received a call from the library informing me the books I had on hold are ready for pick up. Welcome fall and cozy reading adventures!
Crystal Paine says
Yay for new books!
Lauren says
Today I saved by stacking coupons with cartwheel and gift cards back to stock up on diapers for my little guys. With two in diapers I can’t afford to not save!!!
heidi says
I cut my sons hair. I’ve been cutting our kids hair for 29 yrs. So, conservatively speaking, if I cut each of the 9 kids hair 4 times per yr, from 2yr to 18 yrs old, worth $10 per cut…that’s a savings of at least $5,760. Yee-ha! (wow, now that deserves a starbucks 😉 )
darla says
I ate at home instead of eating out like I wanted to!
Annie says
I had a friend for lunch, and instead of making a whole new meal, I was able to creatively purpose some leftovers and used the last few tablespoons of pumpkin in a jar to make cookies! 🙂
Sara says
I saved today by taking the time to plan my shopping trip and stacking my coupons for a total savings of about 85% off retail for my groceries and personal items.
Sherry Gay says
My Husband & I took advantage of a little known service of our Health Insurance co…Humana … home visit of a Doctor in our home … we received mini exams .. help with diet …our RXs … discussions about personal health… discussions and mini exams of our mental health…the Doctor was in our home for almost 2 hours……cost to us ZERO …..it was amazing! !!
Erin says
We saved by doing a little research online. Last week a furnace repairman quoted us repairs of around $1400. After researching the parts online my husband ordered & installed them himself for under $150! He has no experience with repairs like that but there were so many people online willing to share their expertise! Thankful for a husband willing to get his hands dirty to help us save money!
Jessica says
Today I saved by eating the free food at work 🙂 Also cooked at home for dinner = no money spent!!!
zina says
I got organic baby food on clearance, and I used a Target digital coupon!
rebecca says
I saved today by eating dinner in (instead of going out) right after a long day involving work, school, two kid’s dentist appointments, two kid’s soccer games, and various homework assignments. I was so tempted to grab a pizza on the way home, but stuck to the plan and had a healthy dinner on the table in just a few minutes once we arrived. Money saved! 🙂
Marin Rozelle says
I saved by eating all our meals at home, bringing coffee to the park, and visiting the library for new books!
Jennifer Rust says
We saved today by using dinner leftovers for lunches and using our frozen bananas to make a sweet treat this afternoon.
Melody says
Today I saved by visiting the library for some new books!
NaDell says
I made a picnic for my three year old and I to enjoy between helping at the middle school lunches checking out playground balls to the kids.
sarah says
I saved by volunteering with my kids at a local jack i’lantern festival. We spent about an hour lighting the candles in the Jack o’ lanterns and then were given free tickets to the event for later in the evening.
Deena says
I saved today by eating lunch at home and creating a new meal out of left overs from a previous meal for dinner!
Chris says
I saved money by asking Wal-Mart if they accept competitor coupons. Saved $25 on a new tire!
Emily says
I used the Up & Up diaper deal that you posted. $10 gift card, Cartwheel, $10 off $40 coupon (thanks for posting!)…but made it an even sweeter deal! I was picking up a coffee at Starbucks before I started shopping (the free one you get by bringing in an old package) and I noticed that there was a fall coupon book there. There was another coupon for a few more bucks off an Up & Up purchase. So I saved even more! And the 5% redcard discount too. The cashier was said I was his best deal of the day so far. 🙂
Micaela says
I bought store brand toiletries instead of brand names, went “shopping” in my pantry for dinner ingredients, and spent as much money on ingredients for about 9 months worth of DIY laundry detergent as I would have spent for 1 or 2 months worth of regular detergent.
Tracy Robertson says
I went to my grocery store website online before shopping this morning. I am able to click on coupons there and save a lot by planning my trip to the grocery store ahead of time.
Lydia says
I bought 40 lbs. of chicken for super cheap and froze it for lots of meals over the next several months.
Lisa says
Went shopping at Khols, but instead of buying something there, went down the road to Goodwill and bought a super cute top for $4! Whoo! Hoo!
Danissa says
Did a mystery shop at a restaurant and got dinner for myself and my family for free.
Laurie says
I have been patiently waiting for the summer clearance at Sears to go down. Today it was all 1.99! Stocked up on work clothes for my husband!
Bobbie Jo Shockley says
Didn’t make the extra trip to the grocery store. Trying to use up what we have in the house.
Bekki says
Today I saved by making our own soup, salad, and breadsticks lunch at home instead of splurging on it at a certain popular restaurant. It was super tasty, satisfied the craving, and cost WAY less than going out!
Laura says
Today I finally got a little “alone” time to run a few errands. I thought I would enjoy myself more by visiting our local coffeehouse and getting my favorite drink – almond steamer with whip. However I knew that I had to buy some much needed toiletries (using coupons of course) and skipped the drink!! I was also able to take advantage of the Huggies wipes deal posted earlier this week too!! Yeah for me and I still cherished my much needed alone time!
Holly says
I saved by cooking pork that we stocked up on when on a great sale at the grocery store. We had frozen veggies bought on sale and with a coupon. Tomorrow I will save by using my gas points rewards for switching a prescription. 🙂
Joan says
Saved today by shopping my fridge/freezer!
Dana says
So, my sister in law was looking for a babysitter for her children while her and her husband had some time away for the weekend. I thought hey! Why dont you send your kids over here, and then in turn watch our kids for a weekend? So thats what she did, Ka-ching! Money in the bank! Looking forward to our getaway sometime soon, with free babysitting 🙂
Autumn says
Today I saved by eating in for the most part of the day. I went to the library instead of the bookstore AND I cooked dinner with only the items we had around the house today.
Rebecca Batton says
I saved gas today by staying home!
kathleen says
I saved today by being crafty with an old halloween costume. I had a white furry bunny mascot costume that i bought at the thrift store for $10 a few years back. Well, one year i used it as a bunny. The next year, i put black felt spots on it was a dalmation costume. This year, i removed the spots and added a grey furry tail. I made a new headpiece with a fabric crown and now i am using it as a max costume(where the wild things are). 🙂
Jen says
I carpooled with co-workers – saves money and good for the environment!
Alessandra says
I saved by not going out to eat even though we got home pretty late. We had food at home and ate leftovers rather than buying crap in a drive through! 🙂
Deanna says
I’ve stuck to my menu plan all week. I’m feeling accomplished.
Guadalupe says
We saved by staying home this week for our schools fall break!:)
Jenny says
I used my Amazon giftcards from Swagbucks to buy household products and Christmas presents.
Amanda says
I saved today by packing nutritious snacks and a meal to take to work with me! It’s starting to look like Fall here in Tennessee so I think I’ll try this recipe this weekend!
Morgan says
I’ve been doing a little redecorating lately. Today I “shopped the house” and moved accessories around instead of buying new!
Julie C Rader says
I went grocery shopping at Aldi today, and bread was marked down to $.25 a loaf! Woot!
rebecca m says
Today I saved by making supper at home even though I really, really wanted to order pizza!
Susan Carey says
I save by packing and taking my lunch to work with me everyday! I have saved hundreds of dollars this school year by doing that!
Jenni says
A few things today. We just returned from visiting family. In order to stay in budget we used cash only and brought out own food. Also I cut my husbands hair.
It’s good thinking like this. Makes me feel more accomplished:)
Tai says
Making my one year olds food!!! Try not feeding jar stuff.
Rae says
I almost purchased a pair of shoes at Shoe Carnival for $40 but instead went down the street to Goodwill and found a nice pair for $5 = a savings of $35!!! Woohoo!
Tracey says
I saved by using a printable coupon at Ulta for some beauty items I wanted to purchase for my daughter.
Jennifer says
LOL I skipped Starbucks today to save money.
Pamela J says
I saved money today to by combining trips to save gas.
Carolyn says
Our daughter takes violin lessons… and today we saved because her teacher is a university student…who charges 70% LESS than the going rate for a professional lesson in our area. 🙂
Rebekah says
I saved today by eating up the leftovers and cleaning out the ‘fridge. I definitely put off grocery shopping for a couple days by shopping in my own house first!
sara wood says
I saved today by making myself wait until I got home to have dinner even though I was so hungry!!!
Elena says
I made coffee at home instead of going to Starbucks.
Hannah says
I saved by emptying out my vacuum bag of all the dust and crumbs, rather than buying a new one. Yes, it’s a little gross and tedious, but in addition to it not costing money, I usually rescue a few missing Legos!
JB says
Shopped the sales at the grocery and used coupons. Not that exciting, but a tried and true money-saver.
Karen says
Insurance… Used it today to take my sick child to the doctor.
Pam says
We saved by staying home this morning, eating lunch at home then packing snacks and beverages for our afternoon adventures out and about.
Theres says
I’ve been doing this for about 5 years in order to save- I used handkerchiefs and cloth napkins. I’ve saved plenty on tissues and paper napkins. =)
Maggie says
Today I saved by eating the first servings of split pea soup that we made in the crockpot- half the meat, double the vegetables (courtesy of previous soups, because I cut and froze the leftover carrots and celery rather than letting it go to waste). This was a win because I was definitely not in the mood to cook, and would’ve ended up eating out somewhere.
Lindsay says
I made my own coffee at home instead of hitting up Starbucks and enjoyed the beautiful weather outside with my kids instead of paying for time at an indoor play place like we had planned.
Abby says
I saved today by carpooling to work, as I do pretty much every other day, too.
Emily says
I made homemade iced tea for work instead of buying bottled. Whole box of tea costs less than one bottle store bought.
Twila says
I saved today by uploading a receipt to Snap. I also saved by buying some herbs I needed at a bulk food store instead of the grocery store, where they would have cost me at least another time as much as what I paid.
Katherine says
I Went grocery shopping at Aldi first before Walmart and got a bunch of items (especially produce) for cheaper!
Megan says
I saved by checking out books from the library and got some amazing deals at the grocery store by combining coupons and store rewards. Meijer has some great deals this week!
Becky says
Made your black bean soup recipe for supper with beans I soaked last night–yummy! Reminds me of panera bread’s black bean soup.
Amy says
I went to an estate sale today and bought laundry soap, bleach, Shout, napkins, paper plates, sponges, and a big box of baking soda for only $5 total!
Jen says
We saved by packing a picnic supper to enjoy this beautiful fall day at the park….when what I REALLY wanted was to grab a Jimmy John sandwich!!
Cara says
I saved today by choosing to cook dinner after getting home a little late instead of grabbing something fast!
Kelli Bhattacharjee says
I can’t wait to give this yummy recipe a try. Thanks for sharing!
Angela says
I made a pot of tea and reheated it throughout the day! I also made a conscious effort to turn off all lights in the house everytime I left a room!
Katherine Lewis says
We saved today by cooking lunch at home. We ate out yesterday and it was $15. That’s a lot for lunch.
Anissa says
Defrosted some meat that had been hanging around to long in the freezer! I am trying to get it inventoried and this was a fun find. It made a fantastic dinner!
Mel says
Instead of having my husband stop at the grocery store on his way home for what I thought the ideal vegetable would be for our dinner, I used what we had in the fridge. It was a great way to save money, to be resourceful and not waste, and to clear out the fridge. Yay for small savings that add up over time!
Abbie Laitinen says
Made a big batch o’ granola instead of buying the premade stuff.
Shannon says
We used a redbox code to watch a free movie!
Charlotte says
I saved by going under my grocery budget and stashing that amount away.
Halsy says
I saved today by meeting up with a friend and our babies for free storytime at the library.
Allison says
I saved today by bringing my lunch to work and by not buying anything out of the vending machine even though I was kind of tempted.
Ashley says
I used up potatoes that were about to go past the point of no return.
Jennifer r. says
I saved money today by cooking dinner at home rather than eating out.
Michelle says
I saved today by using a free reward on my Starbucks card to enjoy a coffee date with a friend!
Alex h says
I saved money today by sewing my favorite shirt that was a little torn.. It looks as good as new now!
krista says
Went to Target and a great deal on 2 boxes of diapers!
Stephanie says
I saved by making dinner at home instead of going out to eat.
Kate says
I had budgeted for a treat from the bakery, but I opted to get the “day old” version and save 50%
Stephanie says
I saved several ways today – I was on a roll. :). Here are three from today.
Call a plant nursery to inquire about a tree I had ordered from them a few months ago. They agreed what I was seeing was not right and offered to ship me a new one free of charge. (I had not even thought to ask for a replacement tree. I really just wanted to make sure it was worth planting.)
Found that I could use a recent background check of mine in place of having to pay for a new one to volunteer at my kid’s school.
Used previously frozen tomatoes in place of buying fresh ones in a soup dish.
Kris says
I saved by cubing and freezing some leftover stale bread and cornbread to make stuffing or bread pudding at some point.
Libby says
We ate leftovers for lunch. Strategically getting in the far lane on the way home from errands so the van wouldn’t magically steer us to the drive thru.
Melinda D says
I bought a rotisserie chicken at Costco ($4.99). With that, we (4 of us) have had chicken sandwiches for one meal (two of the kids had the drumsticks), chicken and white bean soup for another meal, 2 of the kids will have chicken sandwiches in their lunches tomorrow, I fed the dogs some of the undesirable parts (saves on treats/dog food) and I will make homemade stock with the carcass for the freezer.
Andrea says
I saved today by borrowing ebooks from my library.
April says
I packed a lunch for my kids when i knew we would be gone during lunchtime.
Stacey says
I saved today by bringing my lunch to work instead if eating from the cafeteria.
Matti says
Started work on making our own organic bed pillows with wool stuffing!
Sara Mulder says
Today I was really craving nachos from our local taco truck…but instead I made a grilled cheese sandwich and soup!
Jessica says
So I’d like to pretend I did something to save money today (because I love Starbucks and I’d love a gift card lol) but I was running late today and didn’t get a chance to pack my lunch (which I usually always do) so I did have to spend $5 to eat out. But I’ve got my lunch packed for tomorrow and I’m back on track.
Darce says
I saved today by buying the ingredients to make my son’s birthday cake instead of buying him a cake from the bakery. I know he would like it either way – it tastes yummy no matter what! 🙂
Rebecca says
I saved today by staying at home, throwing some chicken & rice in the crock pot this morning, and mending a few clothing items!
Brittany says
I saved today by eating leftovers even when they didn’t sound good to me. 🙂
April D. says
I saved today by packing my lunch instead of eating out. I’m on a plan to save up for the upcoming Christmas season.
Kim says
I saved today by only purchasing groceries on sale ; stacking coupons on top of the sale items; & using grocery rebate apps (Checkout51, Snap, Jingit, & Saving Star). I also purchased a package of three flashlights using a free coupon the manufacturer mailed me. (Their batteries had leaked & ruined a flashlight, so they mailed me the free replacement coupon after I contacted them.)
Andrea T. says
I’ve been under the weather since Tuesday, suffering from a terrible Migraine. Today I saved by opening a can of chicken soup from the pantry, instead of going out to pick up Fresh Chicken Soup from my favorite restaurant. No fun!! But guess what? I saved…
Krista says
I had my husband check the price of Starbucks ground coffee at Target, and it was on sale for $1 off per bag. While checking, he came across a $2 off 2 Starbucks items coupon someone had left on the shelf! We saved $4! I also bought a new vacuum cleaner and used a 20% coupon, which was a savings of $40. I also saved by not stopping at Starbucks after buying the vacuum.
Jen says
I volunteered to work an extra shift on Saturday.
Melody says
Dyed my faded black pants a dark black again along with some socks,the curtain from the laundry room, and my key fob that I love that had too much white and just looked dingy 🙂 I also made some cleaning rags out of old t-shirts. Also, made banana muffins out of some bananas that needed use up.
erin lopez says
Today I saved big on diapers at Target with coupons and the checkout app. It’ll be great not spending big on diapers for the next two/three months becuase of this great deal. Love saving that money!
Megan Baxter says
Today I saved by doing my grocery shopping at Aldi, and graciously accepting 2 doz eggs from one of my hubby’s co-workers!
lyss says
I saved my sanity by resting today, as I’m not feeling the greatest. A friend helped me save gas money and time by bringing our daughter home from school. : )
Natalie says
I saved today by using my reusable lunch pail and containers vs using ziploc bags and throwing them away.
Jackie says
We made a homemade dinner instead of going out on a busy weeknight. Then we turned off the heater and snuggled together to watch a movie.
Anna says
To be honest today was not a great ‘mom’ day, so my own mom helped me out. She picked up a gallon of milk for me so I didn’t have to waste gas running to the store. In other news since I’m a part-time teacher as well, I “saved” a student from failing today as I worked with him for 45 minutes on homework to help get his grade up. Not exactly what you’re going for in this post, but it was definitely a highlight of my day.
Crystal Paine says
Way to go, Anna! And I hope tomorrow is a better day for you!
Mary Jo says
We are moving next week (just 35 miles from where we are now), so I decided today that we are going to eat from the pantry throughout the week instead of doing a big grocery shopping trip tomorrow like I normally woild. It will save grocery money and mean we have less to pack! 🙂
Diane says
Today I saved by making my own pizza dough in the bread machine (yay, dough cycle!) for homemade pizzas.
Eunice B says
I stayed home all day today…I like to think I saved money, but the car was in the garage getting serviced. 😉
Amy says
I saved by staying home today and not going out and spending any money.
WilliamB says
Today I made a cake instead of buying one and, as usual, cooking from scratch.
Irene Delgado says
Today i just not only save, but also win money. I sell all my old accesories, the ones that I dont use anymore, i gain $35 for them. Also, I was on swagbucks when i was waiting for my next class at college. I love to save money and make good and make the best buys 🙂
Jean Cameron says
had leftovers for lunch
vi says
We saved today by eating from the freezer and pantry. Bonus we have leftovers for work tomorrow.
Jacki says
Today I made the fourth dish out of a half bone in ham. It cooked so long in the crockpot that it fell off of the bone. It tasted like smoked meat so I added barbeque sauce and had pulled pork sandwiches. My husband couldn’t believe it was the same ham. I told him to wait until next week when we have his favorite ham and beans! I purchased it at Easter time and stored it in the freezer. It was 1.19 a pound back then!
Jessica says
I saved money using Checkout 51 and Snap today. I also investigated why Ibotta doesn’t work on my new tablet, but was not able to get it to go. 🙁
Jess says
I saved money today by working on Swagbucks after I tucked my daughter into bed instead of reading or watching a show on the internet. Your Swagbucks posts have been inspiring me to see how many I can get each day! 🙂
Crystal Paine says
Yay! I love this!
Justina says
I made homemade pizza for lunch–yum!
Jessica says
My husband took the kids to family story time at the library while I stayed home and finally tackled the mending pile! I repaired one pair of his gym shorts, one glove of my daughter’s, one pair of my son’s pajamas and one of my skirts.
Meghan says
I saved by getting a paleo recipe book I’ve wanted to check out through interlibrary loan, instead of the bookstore. I hate waiting for books to come in, but I utilize every week.
Sonya says
I saved today by using recycled paper in my printer — to print coupons, of all things!
Coleen M. says
I drove past a couch on the curb. One cushion was ripped, but the other was in great shape. I thought it would make the perfect dog bed! The cushion not only looks nice, but it is much sturdier than a dog bed from the pet store. My puppy was thrilled and so was my pocket book.
Crystal Paine says
This is so creative! I love it!
Ellen says
I saved today by making the pumpkin chocolate chip muffins on this website! They are sooooo good, and my kids beg me to make them. I ate them for lunch – guilty pleasure – but I justified it by telling myself that the pumpkin was healthy.
Rachael Speer says
I saved today by paying off our two final interest-baring loans — our vehicle & mortgage payments! What an incredible feeling & a huge weight off my shoulders which I never realized was there!! Then we celebrated by getting Dominos for dinner — not exactly saving $$, but you gotta celebrate something so significant, right?! 🙂
sarah d says
We saved today by checking out free books from the library and using a coupon for our lunch.
Also, I would love to hear your thoughts on the Vitamix. I rarely spend money on myself but I feel like the Vitamix would be a great purchase. I think I would use it so much, especially for my daily smoothie in the morning.
Laura says
Was out hours past lunchtime, at the dentist with my son. Ordered WATER to drink ( with lunch at Panera) instead of Coke. Woo Hoo, that might not seem like much to some, but I have been a COKE-A-HOLIC for years. Have been making much progress in reducing my Coke consumption. And no we could not wait till we got home to eat, we still had 2 stops at Aldi to make! 🙂
sarah says
I took leftovers to work today for lunch and my husband used a $5 subway gifts we won to buy his lunch.
Jen H says
We came home to eat after a Dr appt and then went to my sisters to sew skirts for a bazaar. I don’t go through the drive thru anymore!
Barb says
Today I saved by checking out a local discount store when running a work errand (this is totally okay for my work situation). I got a new rug for $1.25 and a few large tubes of mud masks (stocking stuffers) for 55 cents a piece. Then I swung by a discount grocer and grabbed some ham for tomorrow’s dinner for $1.30!
Kathleen says
We saved because we didn’t go anywhere today
Charity says
I used a rain check from Kroger to get inexpensive cereal and free milk.
Maura Rawlette says
Today I saved on a big day of fun by just taking my son for a $2.25 per game bowling. It was cheap and he LOVED it!
Kimberly says
I saved by making homemade playdoh with my boys!:-) I think it’s much softer than store bought too!!
Jennifer Meybaum says
Getting my brother-in-law’s used trumpet from 30+ years ago so that my son can use it for 5th grade band. Wow! We’ll save plenty in trumpet rental fees at the music store over the next couple of years! It just needs a good cleaning!
Melissa says
I made my afternoon coffee at home instead of buying it!
Rachel says
I saved today but not leaving my house!! I also talked myself out of buying another Christmas present for my daughters – I already have plenty for them!!
Ann says
I made homemade chicken noodle soup using up some bits and pieces from our freezer, garden, and pantry. Yummy, almost free meal, and made my son very happy. 🙂
Kristy says
I stayed home and off any internet shopping sites. That always helps
We ate up leftovers for lunch
And I made myself a white chocolate mocha at home.
Laura young says
We walked while playing golf and saved the cart rentL fee. And exercised for free too.
Jamie says
Started our Christmas shopping using some awesome coupons.
Amy says
We finished a sheet of sparkly smile stickers, so I snipped around the “leftover” sparkly edges to make some sparkly star looking stickers. My son was just as excited and motivated by them, and it made me happy I could stretch the stickers a bit farther.
Carrie O. says
By switching our business account from a bank that charges $10 a month if you drop below a certain amount, to a different bank that has totally free basic business checking!
That’s a potential annual savings of $120 a year!
Teresa says
I saved money today by comparison shopping all the grocery ads then only getting the produce that was on sale. Now we are snacking on the grapes.
Dee Wolters says
I began making a baby quilt. In the last couple of years I have been learning to quilt. While I am not very accomplished, yet, I enjoy giving hand made gifts. Because I use scraps of fabric for most of the quilt, it is very inexpensive. The other fabrics I buy on sale.
Added bonus, when I sew in the evenings while watching tv with my family, I do not snack
Deb says
My son has outgrown his clothes (again!). Instead of running to the store to buy pants that fit, I had shopped ahead at garage sales this summer. Today I pulled out the garage sale pants washed them up and he is good to go – AND it has saved me a small fortune.
Diane G says
Ordered some household supplies on Amazon using giftcards earned thru Swagbucks.
Elly says
I saved today by making apple jelly using apple peelings and cores leftover from the dried apples I am preserving. It is delicious and a great way to use up scraps that would otherwise go to waste. And my house smells amazing!
Julie C says
Roasted up our last turkey from last November’s sale; great way to serve slow roasted turkey sandwiches, turkey tacos, turkey stir fry and turkey soup all from one $5 turkey (for a family of 9!)
Made our own coffee stead of going out, printed up some supplemental phonics sheets instead of buying the book I saw yesterday, and made our own fresh whole wheat bread with wheat berries from the co-op.
Watching a free movie now online and going to take a nice warm shower with my homemade soap and scrub soon. Ah…really need it!
Lauren says
We stock up on baby/toddler items at Target and Babies R Us when they are on clearance, so we have a bunch of gifts on hand for baby showers, children’s bdays, etc. I am thankful to be applying a David Ramsay principle… save like no one else so you can give like no one else. 🙂
Chanda says
My husband and I went on a date and we used grandma as a babysitter instead of hiring someone 🙂
Jess says
I saved by taking my lunch to school, studying outside and at home instead of going for coffee, and eating leftover chicken spinach pasta for dinner.
Charity says
I went to Target to buy diapers but saved $15 on them using coupons.
Genny says
I saved by packing lunch, bringing my coffee to work, and used the gas saving mode when I drove.
Tricia says
Eventhough I was going to be on the road all day for work, I packed my lunch and ate in the car. Instead of stopping to get something to eat.
Diane says
My daughter and I decided to splurge today and get blizzards at DQ. Instead of ordering 2 small blizzards, we ordered a larger one and then split it at home to save a couple of bucks!
Amanda says
I’m part of a ministry at our church that delivers meals to families that just welcomed a baby. Instead of signing up for 3 different days and making 3 different meals, I made a giant pot of chili and a double batch and cornbread and split it between the families and delivered them all today. Not only did I waste less time, but I wasted less because would have ended up making more than needed. It worked great and the families were all graciously accepting of their meals.
Danielle says
I made homemade tomato sauce with some of the last tomatoes from my garden.
Anna C says
Today I saved matching coupons and sales and by making a pumpkin spice coffee at home instead of buying a latte out!
Sarah says
I saved today by making homemade pizza for dinner. I also saved all of my veggie scraps to use for homemade veggie broth later.
Jennifer says
I love all things Starbucks too!
I saved money today by skipping Old Navy and the mall and hitting a great resale shop near my house for winter wear.
I also brought a piece of spinach feta lasagna from the freezer with me to work for lunch. I’ve had a really successful week bringing my lunch to work. I can’t remember the last time I managed to bring something every day 🙂
Sherry says
I saved $34.99 + tax this week! I’m an avid cricut/scrapbooker and I’ve wanted a Clip and Spin Organizer for a long time (round top hold clips that sheets of stickers/etc hang from and it spins to see them easily – $34.99 at the local craft store). So after checking one out up close, I went home and made my own! I used the pole and base from an old lamp that no longer worked, the top wire circle from the lampshade and a nut/bolt to fasten it all together. It looks great, works perfect and only cost me $2.50 for the clips!
Asmith says
I saved by air drying clothes
Candice says
Saved today by bringing all my meals to work and not eating out!
Deb says
I made bread today, but that is not a special savings, since it is our normal savings. A friend was coming to lunch and we had the fresh bread with our soup. I put butter and peanut butter on the table but typically I would have run out and bought lunch meat. (So my savings was using what I had on hand.) Please don’t think I was just cheap! It is a very dear, long time friend who came over and she just loves the homemade bread. I knew the bread with butter is a treat for her.
REbecca says
Go ROYALS!!! I’m from Kansas City, (living in NW Florida now). We don’t have cable either so I haven’t watched any of the games. Glad they’ll be on Fox next week so we can watch!
I saved today, by turning the a/c off and opening the windows. It got a little warm in the afternoon (remember I’m in FL), but the humidity was low (for us) and it was bearable.
Kelli says
I cashed in some kelloggs cereal codes for a free book for my son. Gotta love a free book and free shipping!
Brooke Schrowang says
How ironic. I saved today by making homemade caramel sauce to make homemade caramel frapps. I also saved by taking a bar of Kirk’s natural soap and turning it into liquid hand soap. We save everyday by cancelling our satellite and using a Roku. We have free apps and alternate Hulu and Netflix memeberships! God is Good!!!!
Amy says
We ate from the pantry and clipped coupons.
Sarah says
I saved today by picking up my state fair ticket during pre-sale! It took an extra stop but it was on the way home and I saved $2 on the ticket!
Kayla says
I saved today by taking advantage of the deal you shared with e-pantry! Not only did I get 8 household cleaner for 20.00. I also got 20.00 in credit by referring friends!
Lori Ewart says
We saved today by comparison shopping a number of stores and online for a bedroom set. We have been looking for three years and watching for used sets; however, we were not finding what we were looking for. We didn’t need the mirror or night stands, and with a Columbus Day Sale, we saved almost a $1,000 compared to what other stores were selling similar sets for. In addition, the salesman, a former carpet-cleaning business owner, told us how to best take care of our carpet and make it last. Lots of professional advice at no extra charge!!!
Deana says
Ate lunch from leftovers, played with the pug, took a nap, and earned Swagbucks. Then my six year old and I played beauty parlor and did each others nails.
Beth says
I saved today by skipping the Target deal. I don’t have a target in my town, but I was headed to a town where there was one. I got all my coupons together. When I got to the store, some of the products were sold out. Even though I could have still done SOME of the deals, it wasn’t as great of savings so I decided to pass and keep my eyes out for another time.
Lisa says
I bought items at the grocery store that will be completely free once I receive the money from the mail in rebate. I already have the rebate form completed and ready to mail!
Amanda C. says
I saved by making my own fried rice.
Renee says
We saved today, by turning the ac off for the day, and keeping the lights off until dark. Sounds silly, but every little bit helps when you are a one income, homeschooling family. We are also eating supper, with things we find in the cabinet, fridge, and/or freezer. It will be a potpourri of food:)
Jessica says
I stayed home and homeschooled my Kindergartner. A friend brought us a box of groceries. We ate leftover pumpkin bars for breakfast and my husband fixed my computer. All in a day’s work!
KMC says
We stayed home all day today! No temptations to spend money and enjoyed a relaxing day at home.
Jenny says
We saved today by staying home. I wanted to shop the Halloween decorations but decided to stay in and pull out last years decorations. We made them feel fresh by making window silhouettes out of construction paper to add something new.
Kylie V says
We made lunch and took it to pumpkin patch instead of buying lunch there!
Davonne Parks says
I saved today by coming home to cook dinner instead of picking up something out even though I’m tired 🙂
Krista Erickson says
I quit my job. Sounds like a way to make less money, I know…but, my husband got offered a job making twice what I made in the same number of hours. Our schedules conflicted and required either I quit, or we get childcare for our 3 (soon-to-be 4) children. It was a no-brainer. Child care for 3 kids would have cost more per hour than I made. Plus, now I get to be a stay-at-home mom again!
Jennifer says
Congratulations! And good luck 🙂
Krista Erickson says
Thank-you! We are really excited!
Ellen says
congratulations! That is awesome news! What a blessing to be home with them.
Krista Erickson says
Thank-you! We have been blessed exceedingly this year!
Melissa says
Made foaming hand soap!
Lisa Riddle says
I saved by carpooling to work.
Reva says
Had a milk shake from Steak n Shake during the half price hours (2-4 pm)
Amber C. says
Since we live fairly close to my children’s school, I saved my family money today by walking to pick my children up from school.
Not only did it save us gas money, but we all were able to get in some extra exercise and sightseeing too! 🙂
Sharon says
We saved today by making bread and muffins from scratch, rather than purchasing store-bought ones. Ours were much healthier and tastier! 🙂
Jennifer says
MMM.. I too love all things Starbucks and have to try this one!
Today I made my own granola from bulk organic oats, almonds, coconut, flax seed, real maple syrup and seasoning. Much tastier than the store bought stuff and cheaper too! I also stretched the wings and a thigh leftover from a roasted chicken and what I could scrounge from teh pantry into a casserole to feed us for two days, thus putting off another trip to the grocery store.
I think I’ll go try that hot cocoa now. 🙂