New Cash back App: BrandClub!

Is it new, or just new to me? Yes. both. I discovered BrandClub over the weekend while browsing one of my favorite Reddit subs.

I downloaded it right away and got to work, checking it out and setting up my account. here’s the rundown:

  1. Download Brandclub Get the iPhone or Android app to sign up for a free account.
  2. Link Your Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Chewy accounts. The app scans your previous purchases, as well as any future purchases. When you purchase from brands that BrandClub works with, you earn cashback via the app, which can then be sent to a Venmo or Paypal account.
  3. You can also earn cash by taking up to three brand surveys per day (I took three Tampax surveys today and earned $6.00), joining brand clubs in the app (the funds are released when you purchase stuff from that brand at one of the linked accounts above), or promote products (sharing specific product links on social media, and earn a commission when those products are purchased).  So really, you can earn a lot of money depending on how much work you want to put into this app.

I have had this app on my phone for less than a week and I’ve cashed out $23.00! If you want to give BrandClub a shot, click the link here to download the app. You’ll start with $10 free. This is my referral link, and I’ll also earn a bonus too. It’s a win/win.

I’ll be posting updates as I continue to use BrandClub and let you know how it pans out.

 

Talk Back: Have you used this app before? How much have you earned?

 

Feeding San Diego Together Tour: More Free Food In Your Neighborhood!

Y’all know I post a list of free food resources monthly, but this one just came to my attention courtesy of Brooke from Saving in the 619.

Feeding San Diego has a Together Tour, where they work with local venues to host drive through food giveaways throughout the month all over San Diego County. No proof of need required!

Every registered attendee will receive about 50 lbs worth of dry goods, fresh produce, and frozen meat protein.

During the event, you will receive valuable resources on how to access other Feeding San Diego distributions close to your home. In addition, our team can provide information about CalFresh, and how to apply.

Visit the website here and find your next local event! From Chula Vista to San Marcos, there are events all over the county all month long, all year long!

4/25/2022 Weekly Meal Plan

0a5e9dab796cea8a07eabe4eb4795b9e.jpgIt’s that time again! I put a few Dream Dinners into the fridge to thaw for this week, and I’m plotting and scheming to make this weeks menu.

This afternoon once I’m home from work, I’ll get to work on this week’s CSA Box- Chopped and preparing!  Our veggies and fruit are delivered by Yasukochi Family Farms CSA. For $28, it’s a great deal. I don’t have to pick anything, go to the store, or carry it upstairs. I can’t go to the store and get the same amount we get weekly for $28. Seriously. It’s a deal. They email a preview of what will be in the boxes over the weekend, so I can start thinking about what I’d like to make.

A quick trip to the store to pick up milk, coffee, cream, and a few other things and we’ll be good for the week!

We’ve been trying a lot of new foods lately, thanks to the really great freebies from Social Nature lately too. It’s fun to try new foods.

For those of you that are new to meal planning, I’ve got an easy 101 style post here with super easy tips and steps. After you get that down, here is info about batch or freezer cooking.

I’ve gotten a pretty good inventory of the pantry, freezer, and fridge done (I try to update it after every shopping trip), so I’m able to plan meals and use up what we’ve got with little waste.

I only post our dinner plans for the week, because our other meals are usually the same each day.

Breakfast: Coffee with 1/2 and 1/2  for me, and pancakes or something along those lines for the kids. They are also into fruit and bagels for breakfast. Lately, the big kid has been digging protein shakes in the morning. This is his favorite kind. 

Lunch: I have a plastic tote in the cupboard full of self-serve snacks. I buy treats and snacks in bulk and fill up snack-sized zip-top bags. I’m back to packing lunches again. However, school lunches are free this year- Little Bit has been buying her lunch and expanding her palate.  The big kid still brings lunch from home.

Dinner: I picked up our April Dream Dinners order on Friday afternoon and we’ve got meals for the next month or so.  When we have them, I serve 2 Dream Dinners a week. It’s perfect for those nights when we have lots going on, and it’s a great way for the kids to try new cuisines!

  • Monday: Nug night- crinkle fries, apple slices & strawberries
  • Tuesday: Sticky Ginger Turkey meatballs, rice, stir-fried veggies
  • Wednesday: Baked Pasta with veggies, salad
  • Thursday:  Honey Mustard glazed chicken, roasted broccoli, mashed potatoes
  • Friday: Takeout night!
  • Saturday:  Leftovers
  • Sunday: Veggie soup, garlic bread

Fetch Rewards: 4,000 points per friend? Game on!

Get social with friends on Fetch!

Earn 4,000 points when you invite a friend to Fetch and they snap a receipt. Once they’re in, the real fun begins with monthly leaderboards, a friend activity feed, and more!

Head to the app and share your referral code now through 4/24/2022. And right now there are some really great bonus point offers!

If you haven’t signed up for Fetch Rewards yet, or want to learn more, check out my post here. Find the Fetch Rewards app in your app store, and when you download it and scan any receipt, use my code ND2TB when you sign up and you’ll score 4,000 bonus points. I’ve earned $60 so far in 2022 just by purchasing my regular groceries and scanning all of my receipts (grocery, mass merchandiser, gas receipts, restaurants, you name it).

It is simple, takes minutes, and the points really rack up!

4/22/2022 Friday Freebies and Deals!

It’s time to celebrate Friday! It’s Spring and there are all sorts of great freebies and deals this week.

Mask Mandates are changing constantly in California and can vary by city and county, so please do your part if you are going to any in-person freebies.

2022 Birthday Freebies are here!

Freebies:

Free McCormick Products
Free Eye Patches + $25 Amazon Gift Card
Free Pretzel at Wetzel’s Pretzels
Free Pulled Pork Classic Sandwich at Dickey’s
Free Gamer Supps GG Energy Sample Pack
Free Sample of Hit! Balm Extra Strength or Daily Relief
Free SmartPants Multivitamins at Select Stores
Free Alcatel Phone Cases & Protectors
Free iPhone Phone Cases & Protectors
Free Perfect Bar at Walmart or Target
Free Dove Dry Spray, Dog Biscuit, Neuriva, Persil & More
Free Anti-Aging Oil Serum + $100 eGift Code
Free Dallas Cannabis Company Sticker
Free Cosmic Bliss Organic Grass-Fed Dairy Ice Cream
Free Apple AirTag Accessory
Free Ready Sports Drink at Walmart & Giant Eagle
Free Sample of Moroccanoil Treatment
Free Subscription to Harper’s Bazaar Magazine
Free Sweeter Juice Skin Products
Teachers – Free Neutrogena Sunscreen Sample
Free Bath Soak, Body Scrub or Body Spray
Free 5×7 Photo Print From Walgreens
Free Medium Fries w/ Any $1 Purchase at McDonalds – Every Friday
Free Kids AirTag Accessory
Free Mr. Bubbles Bath Time Fun Kit
Possible Free $200 Radio Research Study
Free Applegate Deli Meat
Free Popchips
Free Sensodyne Whitening Toothpaste
Hero Skin Squad – Free Beauty Products
Free Keys Soul Care Skincare Samples
Free Gatorade Zero with Protein at Walmart
Free Tablet Accessories
Possible Free $250 Low Income Study
Free Conair Water Flosser
25 Free Disney Movie Insiders Points
Free Sample of Vichy Mineral 89 Probiotic Concentrate
Free Wowables Paper Towels
Free EPIX Channels Preview – Starts Today

Deals:

Barbie Clearance as Low as $3.99 + Extra 25% Off at Target
Walgreens Custom Photo Poster $1.99 with Coupon (Reg. $12)
All Rocket Dog Shoes Under $35 + Extra 10% off at Checkout
Gold Plated XL Initial Necklace ONLY $19.97 (Reg $75)
2-Tier Countertop Fruit Basket Bowl ONLY $9.99 (Reg. $17)
Nexcare Max Hold Waterproof Bandages 60-Ct ONLY $5.64 (Reg. $11)
Burt’s Bees 6-Piece Set ONLY $8.91 (Reg $13)
60% Off NYDJ Denim + Extra 10% Off at Checkout
Crayola Scribble Scrubbie Safari Animals ONLY $9.99 (Reg. $26)
.925 Sterling Silver Heart Crystal Earrings ONLY $6.99 (Reg $40)
Handheld Milk Frother ONLY $9.00 (Reg. $17)
Waterproof Curtain Panels ONLY $6.50 (Reg. $13)
Any Size Reversible Comforter Set ONLY $41.99 (Reg. $100)
Sunham Soft Spun Cotton Bath Towels ONLY $6.86 (Reg. $14)
T-Fal Excite Nonstick Cookware Set ONLY $59.49 (Reg. $200)
Roll up Dish Drying Rack ONLY $9.25 (Reg. $17)
Frigidaire Compact Refrigerator ONLY $159.99 (Reg $400)
Paw Patrol Elbow & Knee Pad Set ONLY $9 (Reg $15)
Green Toys Cupcake Set ONLY $13.80 (Reg. $30)
Ozark Trail Air Mattress Twin ONLY $7.97 at Walmart
Reebok Seamless Racerback Bra 2-Piece Set ONLY $6.99 (Reg $25)
Home Expressions Bath Rug ONLY $8.44 (Reg $22)
Personalized Pendant Necklace ONLY $16.99 (Reg $45)
Wonder Nation Toddler Girls Shoes ONLY $7.55 (Reg $28)

Tryzaon: Host a Keys & Kingdoms Piano Party

We’ve been participating in Tryazon events for three+ years. We’ve gotten to try all sorts of fun toys, games, and food.  You can learn more about Tryazon here.

Fun, effective music education is now easier than ever to achieve with this Tryazon Featured Party opportunity from Keys & Kingdoms! Featuring the first ever role-playing adventure game for kids (ages 6-15), Keys & Kingdoms teaches real musical skills and abilities in a whole new way! Unlike traditional games, kids master the piano as they explore immersive lands, craft weapons, learn new songs and unlock the musical power hidden within themselves!

Tryazon hasa total of 50 hosting spots open for this opportunity! Those selected get to receive a party pack with a selection of Keys & Kingdoms products, to sample and share with friends and family! Learn more and apply here: https://www.tryazon.com/keys-and-kingdoms-piano-party/

2022 Earth Day Freebies and Deals!

Earth Day is April 22, 2022. Unlike in past years, there aren’t a lot of cool freebies for those of us in Southern CA. There are freebies in other parts of the country, but I won’t focus on those because, well, I’m in Southern CA, and freebies in the midwest don’t do me any good.

Freebies:

Deals:

There are a lot of free shipping deals, or free samples when you purchase deals for Earth Day, but I’m not really about those. One deal that I do love that is available all year round, but really ties into Earth Day is the the H&M clothing recycling offer. You’ll recieve a 15% off voucher when you take in a bag of clothes to be recycled, up to 4 vouchers for a large trash bag. More info and details can be found here

If you have a little kid, Target is running it’s carseat trade-in April 18-30, 2022. During that time, guests will have the opportunity to recycle an old, expired or damaged car seat and redeem a coupon on their Target app or Target.com/circle for 20% off one car seat, stroller or select baby gear. The coupon can be redeemed through May 14, 2022.

And if you are looking to recycle or sell your old technology, check out Gazelle. 

You can sell or recycle your old technology (phones, tablets, laptops, etc.) and earn cash or a discount on a new/new to you device. Help Mother Earth and yourself!

Despite what you read online there are NO Origin Freebies, Disney Store Freebies, Free milkshakes on the west coast, Mac Freebies, Sephora Freebies, Ice Cream Freebies, or free coffee from Starbucks. 

And don’t forget, there will be more Freebies and Deals on Friday morning!

Costco Membership Deal!

Costco is one of my favorite places to stock up on essentials. If you haven’t been in a while, it’s time to mask up and head over!

Right now there is a great deal for new memberships! Purchase a Costco Membership Activation Certificate to join as a new member and receive a  Costco Shop Card.

  • Gold Star Members receive a $10 Costco Shop Card.
  • Gold Star Executive Members receive a $20 Costco Shop Card.

It’s as easy as 1,2,3!

  1. Purchase your Costco Membership Activation Certificate here.
  2. Receive your Costco Membership Activation Certificate by email.
  3. Bring your Costco Membership Activation Certificate to any U.S. or Puerto Rico Costco location to join as a new member.

Here are my top five Costco Bargains:

  1. Rotisserie Chicken
  2. Butter
  3. PBFit
  4. Kodiak Cake Flapjack Mix
  5. Krusteaz Pancake Mix
  6. Bananas
  7. (Bonus) Their Gas Stations frequently are .20-.30/gallon cheaper than the “discount” stations.

The San Diego Festival of Science & Engineering is back!

After a two-year hiatus, the San Diego Festival of Science and Engineering is back in action and better than ever! Events include two block parties, interactive classroom learning, a movie night, a recycled art competition, weekly podcasts, a group hike, and much more! “We are so excited to be back this year! This next month is packed with both in-person and virtual events for families in our community,” said Sara Pagano, Managing Director of the Festival. “After a two-year hiatus, more than ever, our annual celebration of all things STEAM is so needed to inspire the next generation to a love of science and art.”

Starting tomorrow, there are tons of fun events for kids of all ages to enjoy through mid-May!

Barrio Logan Science and Art Expo Mercado Del Barrio: 1900 Main Street, San Diego, CA 92113 

  • April 16th 2022, 10:00AM-2:00PM

  • Combining culture, science, and art, the day will include a mix of student competitions, art displays, live exhibits, hands-on STEAM booths, and more!

  • This is a family-friendly environment where curiosity and exploration intersect creativity and culture.

Live Stage Event at Fleet Science Center 10am-2pm

  • Thursday, April 28th, 2022

  • Live stage performances featuring all things STEAM: rockets, reptiles, robotics, and more! Lineup to be announced soon.

North County STEAM Block Party 1628 Lomas Santa Fe Dr, Del Mar, CA 92014

  • May 1st 2022, 12:00PM-3:00PM, San Dieguito County Park

  • Join other industry partners and community organizations for a scavenger hunt with a twist.

  • Attendees will receive park maps for a scavenger hunt through the park’s nature trails, along with passport books to visit the booths to win prizes.

  • The day will include a family-friendly band and BYOP (bring your own picnic) if you choose!

STEAM Movie Night Waterfront Park: 1600  Pacific Hwy, San Diego, CA 92101

  • May 7th, 2022, 5:30PM-7:30PM. The movie starts at 7:30pm

  • The theme of the night will be “building community with STEAM.”

  • Before the movie starts, attendees will be able to engage with different booths, each with hands-on STEAM activities.

Live Well Trails Challenge Ranger-led hike starts at 10:00AM, at the Birdwatching on the Nature Center Loop at San Elijo Lagoon.

  •  May 7th, 2022 9:00AM
  • Participants will adventure to some of the most popular and picturesque parks in San Diego with the first one being at Nature Center Loop at San Elijo Lagoon.

Classroom Connections  

  • March 15th-May 15th
  • This year the San Diego Festival of Science & Engineering will match classrooms at various grade levels with local STEAM industries to cultivate STEAM excitement and provide resources that many classrooms go without.

Stump a Steam Pro Saburo Muraoka Elementary School: 1644 Santa Alexia Ave, Chula Vista, CA 91913

  • Wednesday, May 4th 1-2:30pm

  • Science speed round discussion for 3rd graders to introduce them to a dozen STEAM professionals from different industries.

  • Students will have the opportunity to “stump” the pros to win points for their class.

Weekly “Women Who Inspire” Podcast Through May 10th (All new this year!)

  • Episodes will cover successful women in the science, engineering, and art fields. They will dive into their backgrounds and find out what influenced their career trajectory.

For more information, visit lovestemsd.org or call 858-455-0300 ext. 4152. Connect on Facebook (facebook.com/loveSTEMsd), Instagram (@lovestemsd), and Twitter (@LoveSTEMsd).

4/15/2022 Freebies and Deals of the Week!

Like most things in post-pandemic life, we are still facing delays in the reconstruction of the kitchen. HOWEVER-I’m getting y’all some top-notch freebies and deals this week- Enjoy and stay safe!

Mask Mandates are changing constantly in California and can vary by city and county, so please do your part if you are going to any in-person freebies.

2022 Birthday Freebies are here!

Freebies:

Free Godiva Chocolate
Free Dior Addict Shine Lipstick Sample
Free Sample of Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair
Free BrightParents Pregnancy Test & Calendar
Free Shameless Pets Premium Cat Treats
Free Sample of Aveda Smooth Infusion Perfect Blow Dry
Free Differin Gel After Rebate
Free Dave’s Killer Bread Product
SampleSource VIP – Free Boost Diabetic Nutritional Drink
Free Tresluce Beauty Palette
Free Lane Bryant Gift Card Giveaway
Free Healthy Heights KidzProtein and KidzProtein Vegan
Already Got the Covid Booster? Get Paid $325 for a Vaccine Study
Free Sample of L’Oreal Revitalift Hyaluronic Acid Serum
Free Shameless Pets Premium Dog Treats
Free Sample of Enfagrow Toddler Formula
Free Sample of Sakara Life Metabolism Super Powder
Free Ken’s Dressing & Marinade
Free Muscle & Joint Pain Relief Products
Teachers – Free Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures Kit
Free Medium Fries w/ Any $1 Purchase at McDonalds – Every Friday
Free Insurmountable PC Game
Free Benny the Farting Bunny Saves Easter eBook
Free Showtime Channels Preview – Starts Today
Free XCOM 2 PC Game

Deals:

Women’s 5-Pack Short Sleeve Tees ONLY $19.99 (Reg $33)
Foldable Fairytale Castle ONLY $15.23 (Reg $50)
Disney Mickey Mouse Toaster ONLY $22.49 (Reg $30)
Oakmont Custom Rutherford Whiskey Glass 4-Ct $21.99 (Reg. $86)
UGG Mini Shearling Boots ONLY $65.98 (Reg $155)
M3 Naturals Anti Cellulite Massage Oil ONLY $19.54 (Reg. $50)
OmniBoost Travel Booster Seat ONLY $24.93 (Reg. $45)
Sparkle Allure Heart Jewelry Set ONLY $13.99 (Reg $60)
Barbie’s 50% Off Prices Start at Only $3 with Coupons
Kids Adventure Race Track ONLY $21.49 (Reg. $40)

Echo Show 8 ONLY $59.99 (Reg. $110)
Buy 3 Save $5 Select Skincare on Amazon
Charter Club Denim Jacket ONLY $25.44 (Reg $80)
4 Disney Movies for $1 + Free Shipping
Steve Madden Dome Backpack ONLY $29.93 (Reg $75)
Free 16×20 Canvas from Canvas People Mother’s Day Gift
Bogs Women and Girl Boots as Low as $5.99 + 10% Off at Checkout
Chefman Electric Burr Coffee Grinder ONLY $19.99 (Reg $40)
Kate Spade Harlow Crossbody ONLY $59 (Reg $279)
Cooks 1.5-Liter Deep Fryer ONLY $29.99 (Reg $60)
Champion Women’s Pajama Shorts ONLY $14.99 (Reg $26)
MUK LUKS Fleece Lined Embossed Leggings ONLY $9.99 (Reg. $24)
MKF Collection Libby 3-Piece Tote Bag ONLY $48 (Reg $299)
Melissa & Doug Construction Building Set ONLY $11.24 (Reg. $23)
Baby Girls Tunic & Leggings Set ONLY $22.80 (Reg $38)
Baby Phat Women’s Puffer Jacket ONLY $37.93 (Reg $129)
FREE Jimmy Choo Bag w/ Large Fragrance Purchase at Macy’s
Flawless Beauty Fridge ONLY $44.99 (Reg $60)
4-Piece Mixing Bowl Set ONLY $9.99 at Macy’s (Reg $30)
Mario + Rabbids Nintendo Switch Game ONLY $14.88 (Reg. $60)
Hisense 40-Inch Roku TV ONLY $198 (Reg $224)
CoComelon Large Building Blocks ONLY $20.62 (Reg. $37)
Pajama and Robe Set 3-Piece ONLY $7 (Reg $20)
Too Faced 3-Piece Skincare Set ONLY $14.50 (Reg $29)
60% Off Lucky Brand + Exclusive 10% Off at Checkout
KidKraft Outdoor Picnic Table Set ONLY $74.49 (Reg $130)