deal

4/12/2021: Weekly Meal Plan!

Abby H.

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The CSA emails us in advance to give us a heads up as to what may be in our boxes on Monday, so that’s helped me be able to meal prep and write up this post last night.. But I went to bed early and forgot to hit POST.

I picked up a full order from Dream Dinners on Friday afternoon, and I’ve got three DD meals planned for this week. I’m working through the freezer too, and I’m planning on making vegetable soup with some homemade stock in the freezer and some freshly frozen veggies. I freeze fresh veggies towards the end of the week so that we have room in the fridge for all of the new CSA goodies.

Veggies and fruit are delivered each Monday by Yasukochi Family Farms CSA. For $25, 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 $25. Seriously. It’s a deal. I spend about an hour on Monday afternoon cleaning and prepping veggies for the rest of the week.

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. If you are looking for a kitchen inventory printable, I like the kitchen inventories here. They are great printables.

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.  The kids are nuts about pancakes. The Big Kid has been on a protein shake kick in the AM.

Lunch: The little kiddo and I usually have something quick and filling, lately it’s been sandwiches on croissants, and strawberry yogurt.  Big kid takes his lunch to school.

Dinner: Usually, I do a crockpot meal on Mondays, but now that we are home all the time, we’ve been having an odd combination of fully home-cooked, scratch meals, and frozen entrees and veggies. I have been posting our meal plans on Instagram too- As well as pics of stuff we are doing to keep busy.

  • Sunday: Roasted loaded cauliflower, Salad, Garlic Baguettes
  • Monday:  Orange ginger chicken, rice, roasted veggies
  • Tuesday:   Vegetable Soup and Cheddar Biscuits
  • Wednesday:  Meal o’ Snacks!
  • Thursday: Chicken tikka Masala, rice, salad or veggies
  • Friday:  Pizza/Takeout Night
  • Saturday: Breakfast for Dinner (Pancakes, Eggs, Fruit)

Please stay safe you guys!

Talk Back: What are you cooking for dinner this week?

Tryazon Event- Organize the Kids’ Clutter with Deflecto!

Abby H.

Tryazon has another really cool party/event opportunity- perfect for families that are homeschooling, distance learning, or are a teacher in school.

Clean up the kids’ clutter while fighting germs with Tryazon Featured Party opportunity, from Deflecto. Featuring a diverse line of antimicrobial storage and organizational products for kids specifically designed for the art, craft, and education markets. Deflecto’s kids storage now includes SteriTouch® an antimicrobial agent used to inhibit the growth of odor-causing microorganisms, mold and mildew. Durable, stackable and washable storage to keep parents and teachers organized!

Tryazon has100 hosting spots open for this opportunity! Those selected get to receive a party pack valued at $75+ with a variety of Deflecto products to share with friends and family! Learn more and apply here.

If, you’ve never heard of Tryazon (pronounced Try-uh-zon ☺), Tryazon is a service dedicated to getting innovative products into people’s hands and mouths, in fun settings like the party we had today. They offer excellent product samples and savings for all who participate.

Cents of Style Fashion Friday LIVE!!- 4/9/21- HUGE Jewelry Collection Starting UNDER $6- NOTHING over $7.99

Abby H.

** This post also contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

Jewelry

YOU WILL NOT WANT TO MISS this Fashion Friday SPECIAL- because this Cents of Style sales event is HUUUGE!!

There are SO many amazing Earrings, Bracelets & Necklaces! We are offering OVER 90 accessories starting UNDER $6 each with this EXTRA 20% OFF code– Crazy right?

Deal Details:

FREE shipping over $35!
COUPON CODE: CHIC
ACTIVE: NOW-4/13/21 at midnight

 

JewelryJewelry

April is Financial Literacy Month! Budgeting and Savings Tips

Abby H.

Today I learned that April is Financial Literacy Month. Which is just in time for tax day (which has been extended this year, but it traditionally April 15th).

One of my favorite topics for this blog is how to save money. So I thought I’d put together a post with links to some of my best ways to save money and throw out some tips and tricks that work for me.

Last year I wrote a three-part series about making a practical budget that a family can adhere to and how to get some extra help if you need it. This was written during the pandemic, so there is a lot of information and resources especially for those feeling the financial panic that many felt during the height of the pandemic last year.

If you already have a budget or feel that your spending is out of control and you aren’t to the point yet where you feel that you need a budget, I did a series of posts in late 2019 about how to reign in the out-of-control spending.

  • Part One- Start in the Kitchen
  • Part Two- Entertainment Some of these tips may not be applicable right now, as so many public places are still closed or have limited services (Like gyms and libraries).
  • Part Three- Shopping Around to Save. Internet, cell phones, health insurance (and that’s just three examples), a lot of times you can save money with a few clicks or a phone call.

Keeping an eye on your Credit Score is another great way to be financially literate. I wrote this morning about Credit Sesame, which I personally have used for at least 9 years.

And finally, if you feel like you need a little more help than the posts above to get a handle on your finances, check out Simplifi by Quicken. To celebrate Financial Literacy Month, Simplifi is offering a 30-day FREE Trial of Simplifi by Quicken.

  • Simplifi by Quicken was named the Best Budgeting App & Tool by the New York Times’ Wirecutter!
  • The app helps you stay on top of your money in less than 5 minutes per week.
  • After your free 30-day trial save 38% off the regular price. That’s $29.99 billed annually for the first year. For the cost of one lunch date, you can have a year of budgeting at your fingertips.

Talkback: What are your tips and tricks to saving money and staying on budget?

Cents of Style: FAVORITE & NEW Lounge Sets Up To 70% OFF!!

Abby H.

** This post also contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.sets

It’s time to get comfy!

This week Cents of Style is offering SUPER POPULAR lounge and jogger sets! These pieces are comfy and will be so cute to snuggle up in anytime and anyplace and ANY weather!

Since we’re always in the mood for much-needed R & R, why not do it in a fabulously gorgeous lounge set….I mean, why not? These sets come in a variety of sizes (S-3X) and tons of colors.

To take advantage of this deal, use the coupon code GETCOMFY making these Start at $15!! Don’t forget FREE Shipping over $35! The code is active until 4/13/21 at midnight.

sets

 

Time to Buy a New Laptop (With Gazelle)

Abby H.

**This post contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.

Last year or so, our desktop died (video card). I took it to the magical wizards at our local Apple Authorized repair shop and the very nice dude looked at my (at the time) 8-ish-year-old computer and said.. “Ma’am, I can’t fix that. Apple doesn’t make parts for it.”

In the meantime I’ve been using a laptop a friend loaned me. It’s time to rejoin the 21st century and buy a new laptop. As much as I appreciate the loaner, it’s older, and I need something faster and with a functioning webcam.

So I’ve been looking online. First, of course, I went to Amazon, because, well that’s where most people start these days. Honestly, I do not want to buy a laptop on Amazon. I bought an iPad through them last year and after 6 months, it died. I had insurance, so they replaced it for free, but it was a pain in the tuchus.

I remembered that Gazelle sells refurbished laptops! So, I took a look at their website. In addition to phones and tablets, you can sell and buy laptops through Gazelle!

And if you are a new customer, you can receive $20 off your first purchase of $200+ on Gazelle using Coupon Code AFF21NEW.

There are a few great options for my laptop needs, so I’ll be making my choice in the next week or so. I am so looking forward to a new laptop!

If you aren’t looking for a laptop, but a phone, check out this deal! Get $75 off Galaxy Note 20, 10+, 10; $50 iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max; and $25 off iPhone 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, XR at Gazelle (Through 4/12/2021)

I’ll update y’all as soon as I make a choice. I’m really looking forward to having something new (to me) that’s all mine. And if you have any recommendations on where to get a laptop, I’m all ears!

April 2021- New Month, New Coupons!

Abby H.

file000786402730Here is your monthly reminder!  A new month means new printable and electronic coupons!

Check out the following sites:

One of my favorite websites is the Sunday Coupon Review.  It helps me plot out scenarios in advance and I can email friends to ask for coupons in advance. Remember if clipping coupons isn’t your thing, but saving money is, check out my list of Smartphone apps that can save you the big bucks! New offers are added on the Smartphone Savings Apps all the time!

April is here! Easter Sunday is this coming Sunday, so there will be deals for candy and egg dying supplies (and don’t forget markdowns in the days following the holiday). April is National Gardening Month, keep your eyes peeled for deals and sales at home improvement stores, as well as stores like Dollar Tree and Walmart. For a complete list of types of foods and items that will be on sale, check out this post on the cycle of sales.

 

Here are a few of my favorite new coupons:


Save $0.50 when you buy TWO BOXES any flavor/variety Betty Crocker™ Fruit Shapes OR Mott’s® Fruit Flavored Snacks
Save $2.00 when you buy ONE (1) Nature’s Own® Perfectly Crafted Loaf and ONE (1) Sabra 8 oz – 10 oz Hummus (Available at Walmart)
Save $1.50 any ONE (1) Carnation Breakfast Essentials® Nutritional Product
Save $3.00 ONE Venus® Razor (excludes Venus® Disposable Razors and trial/travel size)

New PinchMe Samples Drop 4/6/2021

Abby H.

Sample Tuesday is Coming 4/6/2021- Mark your calendars, set an alarm on your phone!

Don’t have any idea what I am talking about? PinchMe! Join PINCHme and receive free samples that you can provide feedback on.

PinchMe is awesome! Once you are signed up, they will email you reminders when new samples are about to drop, and remind you when it’s time to leave feedback.

Answer a series of questions about your household and shopping habits in the Member Profile. PinchMe learns what you like and offer samples just for you.

Once you’ve had a chance to try the samples, complete a short feedback survey to tell PinchMe what you think of the samples.

What are you waiting for? Sign up here and get on the free sample bandwagon! I’ve gotten all kinds of awesome sample/trial size items, as well as full-sized items to try out from PinchMe!

3/26/2021 Friday Freebies and Deals!

Abby H.
bright boxes

This week was the first week of spring break. It was pretty busy: library, park, zoo, and lots of play time outside (weather permitting). This week there aren’t as many freebies, but there are some pretty good ones! Quality over quantity!

A new year means new birthday freebies. I put together a list for 2021. Check it out here.

Most of these freebies and deals are online. I am not encouraging anyone to go into stores or go out into public. Mask up, wash your paws, stay socially distanced!

Freebies:

Free Eva NYC Mini Styler
Free Johnny Rockets Burger for Joining & On Your Birthday
Free Sample of Sasmar Personal Lubricant
Free Subscription to GQ Magazine
Free Cottonelle Down There Care Box
Free Sample of Glow Recipe Watermelon Toner
Free Sesame Street Fire Safety Color & Learn Activity Book
Free Gardening Gifts at Lowes in April
Free End Gun Violence Sticker
Free Lamination of COVID-19 Vaccine Card at Office Depot/Max
Free Subaru Drive & Drive Performance Magazine
Free Medium Fries w/ Any $1 Purchase at McDonalds – Every Friday
Free Subscription to Bon Appetit

Deals:

KidKraft Magnetic Dollhouse Set ONLY $59.79 (Reg $130)
Paint by Sticker Zoo Animals ONLY $5.01 (Reg. $10)
6 Pairs of Water Drop Flower Rhinestone Earrings ONLY $3 Shipped
Girls Dresses 2-Packs ONLY $6.79 Shipped at The Children’s Place
Comfy Buckled Cork Thong Sandals ONLY $21.99 (Reg $45)
Shark ION Robot Vacuum ONLY $149 (Reg $300)
MUK LUKS Women’s Camila Boots ONLY $34.99 (Reg. $65)
AUKEY True Wireless Earbuds ONLY $17.99 (Reg. $50)
Green Toys Shape Sorter Truck ONLY $14.00 (Reg. $30)
Peter Rabbit Book and Toy ONLY $9.98 (Reg. $17)
Peter Rabbit Blu-ray DVD ONLY $10.00 (Reg. $20)
WowWee Ploosh Kissimal Interactive Plush ONLY $5.43 (Reg. $13)
Green Toys Dune Buggy Pull ONLY $8.50 (Reg. $20)
8 x 10 Rugs up to 90% Off + Exclusive Extra 10% Off at Zulily
2 Scoops Plush Tie Dye Unicorn ONLY $7.50 (Reg $15)
MUK LUKS Men’s Moccasin Slippers ONLY $13.99 (Reg. $30)
Nike Kids Shoes ALL $34.99 (reg $80)
Fire HD 10 Tablet 64GB ONLY $107.99 (Reg $190)
Platform Perforated Sneakers ONLY $29.99 (Reg $60)
Portable Makeup Bag ONLY $9.99 Shipped (Reg $20)
WowWee Pixie Belles ONLY $4.79 (Reg. $15)
Twin Waterproof Mattress Protector ONLY $37.99 (Reg $64)
Conair Hot Curling Brush 2 for $6.43 on Amazon
MUK LUKS Men’s Camouflage Slippers ONLY $14.99 (Reg $40)
Bella Pro Series Touchscreen Air Fryer 2qt ONLY $24.99 (Reg $50)
Leggings by Marika All Styles ONLY $10.99 (Reg. $60)
Under Armour Adult Sackpack ONLY $10.99 (Reg $15)
6 Piece Travel Bags ONLY $12.99 Shipped (Reg $25)
Bella Egg Cooker ONLY $7.99 at Best Buy (Reg $15)
X Marks the Spot Dresses as Low as $4.99 on Zulily
Sheet Sets up to 70% Off + Score Free Shipping Through Sunday
LEGO Sale + Score Free Shipping Through Sunday

SheSpeaks: New Snack Shopping Program!

Abby H.

SheSpeaks has a  Snack Food Shopping Program! To participate, you’ll purchase a specific snack food at an approved Walmart store. The item will cost approximately $5. You’ll be reimbursed $10 for your purchase within two weeks of you submitting your receipt!

To qualify for this program, you will need to be able to shop at a Walmart store on this list. (Due to limited availability, this product is only available at certain stores in AK, AZ, CA, HI, ID, MT, NM, NV, OR, TX, UT, WA, WY.)

To get started, click here.