frugal life

8/14/2026 Friday Freebies and Deals

Abby H.Leave a comment

Across the county, kids have started returning to school!

My big guy started back Wednesday, and he’s loving it so far.

My Birthday Freebie list can be found here. The list mostly offers what you can find in Southern California.

If you live outside Southern California, check out this list: Free Birthday Stuff: Get The Best 100+ Freebies on Your Birthday!

If your kids aren’t back to school yet and you need some adventures, here is my list of frugal fun activities in San Diego County.

For free food resources, please refer to my comprehensive list, available here.  It is focused on San Diego County, but additional resources are available outside my area.

Freebies:

FREE Pork Big Deal for Teachers at Sonny’s BBQ on August 20th For my southern friends. 
2 FREE Bath & Body Works Hand Soaps at Ulta
2 FREE Movie Tickets to The Rivals of Amziah King
FREE Sample of AESTURA ATOBARRIER365 Capsule Toner
FREE Technaflora Plant Propagation Starter Pack
FREE Solar Light + FREE Shipping
FREE Full-Size Vetality Brush-Free Daily Dental Chews for Dogs
FREE Sample of CESAR Mini-Pouch Dog Food
FREE Freshmen 6-Pack of Cookies at Insomnia Cookies – 1st 30,000
FREE BIC Soleil 5 Glide Razor 2-Pack from Target
FREE Skilled Trades Training with Home Depot Path to Pro
FREE Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie Workshop Event for Kids at Lowe’s
FREE Handcrafted Drink Every Monday at Capital One Cafe
2 FREE Movie Tickets to Spa Weekend
Calm and Cozy: Free Baby Sleep Music for Restful Nights
FREE Reward Every Week with Panda Express Wok Wednesday
FREE L’Occitane Immortelle Divine Targeted Wrinkle Care
FREE Sample of Prowess All-In-One Cat Food
FREE Air Wick Plug-In Scented Oil Warmer Device After Walmart Cash
FREE Autumn Seasonal Collection Donut at Krispy Kreme
FREE Subscription to LEGO Magazine
FREE Movie Ticket to The Magic Faraway Tree
FREE Welcome Kit with a Target Baby Registry
FREE School Bus Organizer Workshop at Home Depot
Get Started on Your Wellness Goals with Free Supplement Samples
FREE Rare Breed Dog Treats Sample Pack
FREE $25 to Spend on Adidas
Free Zaxby’s Big Zax Snak Meal for New & Existing Rewards Members
FREE History Card Game for Teachers
We Found The Best Birthday Freebies For Kids
FREE Garnier Makeup Bag at Target
FREE Sample of Vagisil White Jasmine Feminine Wash
FREE Car Wash for First Responders at GO Car Wash
6 FREE 5×7 Photo Cards at Walgreens
FREE Sea Rim Activity Book for Kids
FREE Full-Size Nature’s Meal Natural Kids’ Supplements
Chipotle Summer of Extras – FREE Chipotle, Points & More

DealsMacy’s 10 Days of Glam: 50% Off Beauty Deals | Mario Badescu, Make Up For Ever & More
Michaels Coupons: Our Favorite Coupons for 40% Off & More Deals
Tree Hut Watermelon Overnight Lip Mask ONLY $3.80 (Reg $8)
Scott ComfortPlus Toilet Paper ONLY $5 on Amazon
Real Techniques Mini Miracle Complexion Sponge 4-Pack ONLY $3.42 (Reg $9)
PetSmart Promo Codes & Coupons: 20% Off Your Order, 35% Off Your First Order with Autoship & More
Subway BOGO Deal: New Subway Coupons for August & September
Paris Hilton Epic Nonstick Pots & Pans 12-Piece Set ONLY $59.99 (Reg $100)
Thyme & Table 20-Piece Knife Set ONLY $22.47 (Reg $96)
Save Big on Skechers Shoes with Back-to-School Sale! 25% Off Kids Styles
7-in-1 Inflatable Water Slide Bounce House w/ Blower ONLY $199.99 (Reg $380)
Walmart Released New Flash Deals – Up to 65% Off All Departments
Renpho Eye Massager ONLY $39.99 Shipped (Reg $66)
Beats Solo 4 Wireless On-Ear Headphones ONLY $99.95 (Reg $200)

Recipe: Country Pork Sausage Gravy

Abby H.Leave a comment

This is a very easy breakfast to make. It goes great on toast, biscuits, and crescent rolls.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb. Bulk breakfast sausage (I like Jimmy Dean)
  • 1.5 cups milk (I used whole milk)
  • 1/2 cup All-Purpose flour
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions

  1. In a large skillet, brown and crumble sausage over medium heat.
  2. Once the meat has cooked through, sprinkle flour in the skillet. Stir the flour, coating the meat and absorbing the fat in the pan.
  3. Allow flour to cook and brown slightly, stirring frequently.
  4. Turn down the stove to low, and slowly pour milk over the mixture, while whisking. Stir constantly as the mixture cooks and the flour thickens.
  5. If the gravy is too thick, add a little milk (about 1/4 cup), and continue to cook until thick.

Subtitutions:

  • If you are dairy-free, use your favorite milk.
  • If you are gluten-free, use a 1:1 Gluten Free All Purpose Flour.
  • If you do not eat pork, turkey breakfast bulk sausage is a great replacement.

8/6/2026 Friday Freebies and Deals

Abby H.Leave a comment

This week was so busy- appointments, fun adventures, and a mountain of laundry.

We’re on the downward slide to the first day of school!

My Birthday Freebie list can be found here. The list mostly offers what you can find in Southern California.

If you live outside Southern California, check out this list: Free Birthday Stuff: Get The Best 100+ Freebies on Your Birthday!

Looking for some summer fun for you and the kids? Here is my list of frugal fun activities in San Diego County.

For free food resources, please refer to my comprehensive list, available here.  It is focused on San Diego County, but additional resources are available outside my area.

Freebies:

1 Million FREE Dunkin’ Refreshers on August 10th
Free Birthday Stuff in 2026: Get The Best 100+ Freebies on Your Birthday!
2 FREE Movie Tickets to Nimrods
FREE Sample of La Roche-Posay Toleriane Double Repair Face Moisturizer
FREE $25 to Spend at Old Navy
FREE Air Wick Plug-In Scented Oil Warmer Device After Walmart Cash
FREE ARM & HAMMER Power Sheets Chatterbuy Kit
Kids Bowl FREE All Summer
Don’t Miss this Sam’s Club Membership Deal – a Half-Price Membership!
FREE Dragon Herbs Sample Pack + FREE Shipping
FREE Sample of Fancy Feast Gems
FREE ICEE on August 18th
FREE Reward Every Week with Panda Express Wok Wednesday
The Ultimate Guide to Free Toothpaste Samples
FREE Full-Size Oh No Flo Menstrual Cramp Soothing Oil
Big List of 110 Restaurants to Get Free Food
FREE Whopper at Burger King
FREE SmartGames IQ Puzzles Party Pack
Get Your Free Teeth Whitening Samples: A Brighter Smile Awaits

Deals

Flash Sale: Up to 70% Off Women’s Shoes, Handbag and More at Macy’s
Sam’s Club Membership Benefits: Tips and Tricks to Save More at Sam’s Club
Top 43 Restaurants with Senior Discounts: Updated 2026
Lululemon Factory Outlet Stores – Your Favorite Brand at a Fraction of the Cost!
10 School Supplies to Get at Walmart.com to Avoid the Crowds
Back to School Sale on Amazon as low as $0.50
Petco Sale – Buy 3, Get 1 FREE All Dog Treats & Chews
Maximize Your Home Improvement Savings with the MyLowe’s Rewards Program
Farberware Disney 3-Piece Nonstick Mickey Head Cake Pan Set ONLY $19.34 (Reg $43)
wet n wild Enhance and Define Megawear Mascara ONLY $2.00 (Reg $4.00)
JoyJolt Disney Winnie the Pooh 4-Piece Drinking Glasses ONLY $23.99 (Reg $50)
Juicy Couture 4-Pc Viva La Travel Size Eau De Parfum Gift Set ONLY $25 (Reg $50)
Semi-Annual Intimates at Kohl’s – $29.99 & Under + Coupon!
Kids Shoes 30% Off at Target
Looking For An Alternative to Crocs? Check Out These Knock Off, Fake Crocs at the Lowest Prices
How to Coupon at Target (SO many EASY Ways to Save Even More At Target!)
Subway BOGO Deal: New Subway Coupons for August
The Children’s Place – Up to 77% Off All Shorts
What’s the Best Time to Go to Costco for Hassle-Free Shopping?
JCPenney Home Sale – Up to 50% Off + Extra 30% Off w/ Coupon
Kids & Baby Sale at Old Navy: Deals & Steals From $6
Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day 3-Pack ONLY $8.98 Shipped on Amazon (That’s $2.99 Each!)
Toys Clearance at Walmart as low as $4.97 (Reg $10)

Tryazon- SmartGames IQ Puzzles Party!

Abby H.Leave a comment

I’ve been a fan of Tryazon for about 7 years. It’s an amazing company that works with manufacturers of toys, games, food, and recreational/sporting goods. Manufacturers supply their goods to consumers to try out and review for free.

The kids and I have received toys, games, craft kits, and art supplies to test and have fun with.

Right now, Tryazon has a fun toy sampling opportunity to apply for!

 

Test your logic IQ with this Tryazon Featured Party opportunity, from SmartGames! 

SmartGames is back with their IQ Deluxe  Logic puzzle games designed for older audiences (14+). Each game comes with a full spectrum of puzzles from easy-starts to expert-level brain workouts to test your logic, planning, and spatial reasoning! Introducing IQ Star, IQ Square, IQ Pentagon, and IQ Circle. Each has 120 challenges for fresh and exciting problem-solving fun!

Tryazon has 100 hosting spots open for this opportunity! Those selected get to receive a party pack for free with a variety of IQ Deluxe Logic Games to share with friends and family!

Learn more and apply here. 

July 2026 Monthly Side Quest Totals

Abby H.Leave a comment

Quests require compasses and treasure chests, right?Why am I referring to them as “quests” and not “hustle“?

Hustling indicates moving quickly to earn money. This year, I’m doing a little bit every day, approximately 20 minutes on small surveys and small tasks. I may earn less daily, but overall, I can use small tasks to earn more through compounding.

July was so busy overall, but I made time for my side quests. I think it might have been my best month to date!

  • MyPoints:  $30 Amazon Gift Cards
  • PaidViewPoint:  $26.75 Venmo
  • G2:  $20 Amazon Gift Cards
  • Fetch:  $30 in Barnes and Noble Gift Cards
  • Rebates (WeStock, Peekage, Social Nature, and Aisle ):  $30.50 in Aisle Rebates
  • BrandClub:  $10.50 Venmo
  • TPT (I make worksheets/flashcards in my spare time for special ed classrooms). This side quest is definitely a slow trickle of money. I spent a lot of time over the summer making/uploading educational materials to my TPT account. $18.25
  • Verasight: $10 via Venmo
  • Receipt Hog: $10.00 Paypal
  • Class action lawsuits (I use SettleMate to help me find ones that I might qualify for): $22.26
  • Evidation: $10 via Venmo
  • Gist: $20 Amazon Gift Card
  • In-Person Research Study: $200
  • Recycling Bottles and Cans: $30

I spend about 20-30 minutes a day completing surveys, scanning receipts, and other tasks. It doesn’t take long, and it helps take a small load off our summer budget.

As always, the links above may be affiliate links, and I might earn money or points if you join any of the above apps or activities. This helps support my blog and family.

If you are interested in my full list of money-saving/money earning activites, I encourage you to check out:

August 2026: New Healthy Freebies From Social Nature!

Abby H.Leave a comment

 If you are into Organic/Natural/Healthy products, then Social Nature is right up your alley. Sign up and apply to sample products that you are interested in. I usually receive 4-6 offers/freebies per month, sometimes more if I have time to shop. And most of the time it’s full-size products, not just a tiny sample.

In addition to the offers where they mail you a coupon for a free product, Social Nature has started offering 100% cash-back, similar to Ibotta and Fetch Rewards. I love this because I can select exactly what I want, Social Nature tells me which local stores have it, and I can add it to my next shopping list.

And it’s just as easy as Ibotta and Fetch Rewards. Snap a pic and upload it. You can select Venmo, PayPal, or an Amazon Gift Card for your rebate.

This month, there aren’t a ton of free/100% Cashback offers available, but I’ve listed them below.

  •  Seasonal Valencia Oranges by Sunkist
  • Zero Sugar Collagen Tea by Pretty Tasty
  • Non-GMO Macadamia Nuts by Mauna Loa
  • Avo Oil Tortilla Chips by Xochitl
  • Wild Tuna in Olive Oil by Rio Mare
  • Solely Organic Fruit Jerky by Solely

There are a lot more offers for BOGO or a percentage off, including brands like Daiyo, Ripple, Calafia Farms, SunButter, Back to Nature, and Javvy Coffee, to name a few.

If you are looking for other rebate sites, similar to Social Nature, check out Aisle,  WeStock, or Peekage.

Upcoming JCP Kid’s Craft Events for August and September!

Abby H.Leave a comment

I’m all about fun, free (and cheap) activities for kids. JCPenney has two events coming up that fit the bill! Check out these fun, free crafts from JCPenney’s.

Visit the Kids Zone inside JCPenney on August 8, 2026, from 11 AM to Noon, and kids can create an axolotl pouch. The Craft includes a pencil pouch, markers, and a small notebook. Great for back to school!

If you are busy that day, there is an event in September!

On September 12, 2026, from 11 AM to Noon, kids can come create a cabin picture frame.  This craft includes wood sticks, foam pieces, glue dots, a marker, and a magnet.

7/31/26 Friday Freebies and Deals!

Abby H.

In our continuing frugal escapades this summer, today The smaller kid and their friend and I are headed off to SeaWorld. I scored a free educator pass, and Groupon had discount tickets.

I used my MyPoints points from surveys to get a Groupon Gift Card to lower my out-of-pocket.

My Birthday Freebie list can be found here. The list mostly offers what you can find in Southern California.

If you live outside Southern California, check out this list: Free Birthday Stuff: Get The Best 100+ Freebies on Your Birthday!

Looking for some summer fun for you and the kids? Here is my list of frugal fun activities in San Diego County.

For free food resources, please refer to my comprehensive list, available here.  It is focused on San Diego County, but additional resources are available outside my area.

Freebies:

Free Backpacks and School Supply Round Up (San Diego County)

FREE Handcrafted Drink Every Monday at Capital One Cafe
Sweet Surprises: How to Score Free Chocolate
FREE Ade Electrolyte Drink Mix Sample Pack
FREE Kinder Chocolate Bar After Walmart Cash
FREE LEGO Pokemon Event at Target
Get Free Catalogs by Mail: No Credit Card Needed
FREE Mini Cooler Cup at Lowe’s on August 22nd
FREE GREENIES Original Dog Dental Treats
Starbucks – Free Drink or Food Item During Your Birthday
FREE Corona Sunbrew Juicy Twist Reality TV Watch Party Kit
Free Baby Stuff – Ultimate Guide to Get Free Baby Stuff
FREE Sample of Kiehl’s 1cc CollaShot Plumping Serum
FREE Destination Dessert Donut at Krispy Kreme
FREE Duracell Batteries at Office Depot & Office Max
4 FREE Frozen Drinks at Casey’s Every Friday
2 FREE Movie Tickets to Nimrods
FREE IAMS Proactive Health Core Pouch after Walmart Cash
FREE Movie Tickets to The Rivals of Amziah King
FREE Sample of Jean Paul Gaultier Le Beau Narcisse Fragrance
FREE $25 to Spend at Sephora
FREE Samples from The Apothecary Tea
FREE Bimbo Global Race Drawstring Bag, Cooling Towel, Stickers & More
We Rounded Up The Best Free Samples for Men: Check Them Out
FREE Toy Story Woody Action Figure at Walmart
FREE Tillamook Melty Hour Chatterbuy or House Party Kit
FREE Sample of YISE Beauty Xtreme Glow Peptide Serum
FREE Crown Royal Military Care Package for Our Troops
We Rounded Up The Best Free Shampoo Samples Online
FREE Mtn Dew Baja Blast Every Time an MLB Player Hits a 420+ ft Home Run

Deals:

Bikes for the Whole Family From $48 at Walmart
Old Spice Aluminum Free Deodorant for Men ONLY $3.43 (Reg $8)
The Children’s Place Graphic Tees ONLY $5 (Reg $13) + FREE Shipping!
Purina Coupons: Save Big on Your Favorite Pet Food from Pro Plan, Purina ONE, Friskies and More
Top 10 Grocery Store Coupons This Week
Back to School Jeans Sale at Carter’s: Buy One Get two Free
Skip Name Brand Products and Save Big with Off-Brand Foods Instead
Swiffer PowerMop Multi-Surface Mop Kit ONLY $16.94 (Reg $30)
Pioneer 40-In LED Full HD (1080p) Smart RoKu TV ONLY $99.99 (Reg $170)
Cooks 6-Qt Stainless Steel Slow Cooker ONLY $26.99 (Reg $60)
Boho Fringe Thatched Tiki Patio Umbrella ONLY $79.99 (Reg $200)
Amazon No-Rush Credits: How to Use Amazon Digital Rewards Effectively
Get Senior Discounts at These 13 Grocery Stores in 2026
Carote 5-Piece Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Cooking Pot Set ONLY $21.99 (Reg $80)
LOCO 2-Burner Classic Flat Top Grill/Griddle ONLY $99 Shipped (Reg $298)

French Onion Beans- Easy High Fiber Meal!

Abby H.

I’ve seen this recipe all over social media. I watched a few videos and rummaged through my pantry. Here is my version. It’s simple and so tasty!

French onion beans

Ingredients

  • Two onions, thinly sliced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 tablespoon neutral oil or oil from sun-dried tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons garlic powder or 2 tablespoons garlic from a jar
  • 1/4 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2  teaspoon dried thyme, or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme
    Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 15-ounce cans, cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
  • 3/4 cup half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup grated Italian cheese blend

Directions

  1. In a large skillet, add butter and oil.
  2. Once the butter and oil are melted and combined, add onions and sauté on low for about 10 minutes until onions become translucent.
  3. Add garlic/garlic powder, tomatoes, paprika, thyme, and stir to combine.
  4. Cover and cook on low, stirring occasionally for 25 to 35 minutes. Onions will become thick and jammy, and will continue to become translucent and lightly brown around the edges.
  5. Over medium heat, add beans, half-and-half, and cheese.
  6. Uncover and allow to cook for 5 to 10 minutes until it is melting and bubbly.
  7. Serve with crusty Italian bread, sourdough, or crackers of your choice.

These beans stay good in the fridge 3-4 days, however, they will not last that long. They are soo rich and smooth. And very filling,

You can make this recipe vegan by using dairy-free butter substitute, coconut milk, and dairy-free cheese.

7/24/2026 Friday Freebies and Deals!

Abby H.

Comic Con is this weekend, and while the littler and I aren’t going, the big guy is going with his dad on Sunday.

The rest of the week is full of gym visits, swimming at night, and playing video games during the day to avoid the heat. I’m so tired of it being hot and humid.

The love affair with shaved ice continues… If you are looking for a good electric shaved ice machine, this is the one. 

My Birthday Freebie list can be found here. The list mostly offers what you can find in Southern California.

If you live outside Southern California, check out this list: Free Birthday Stuff: Get The Best 100+ Freebies on Your Birthday!

Looking for some summer fun for you and the kids? Here is my list of frugal fun activities in San Diego County.

For free food resources, please refer to my comprehensive list, available here.  It is focused on San Diego County, but additional resources are available outside my area.

Freebies:

Here Are 6 Ways To Get Free Baby Formula Samples
FREE GREENIES Dental Chew Treats
FREE Week of Smoothies at Tropical Smoothie Cafe
FREE Internet for 5 Years and a FREE Hotspot for Students
4 FREE Frozen Drinks at Casey’s Every Friday
FREE Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Cream, Night Cream and Neck & Face Roller
FREE Handcrafted Drink Every Monday at Capital One Cafe
FREE Coffee Mate Situation-Sip Mixed Fruit Flavored Creamer on July 27th
FREE Lunchables Snackables Chatterbuy Kit
FREE Febreze Fabric Refresher After Walmart Cash
We Rounded Up The Best Free Stuff for Senior Citizens: 20+ Freebies
Get Free Seeds for Your Garden
FREE Sample of Halo Holistic Dog Food
Free Charburger at The Habit Burger Grill for Your Birthday
FREE Whopper at Burger King with the Whopper Guarantee
FREE e.l.f. Hair Collection Event at Target
Sign up for a Free Healthy Snack Box
FREE Reward Every Week with Panda Express Wok Wednesday
FREE Wireless Zone & TCC Backpack & School Supplies Giveaway
Kids Eat Free: Big List Of Verified Restaurants Where Kids Can Eat For Free
3 FREE Boxes of Kraft Mac & Cheese Restaurant Edition
FREE Sample Pack of Saba Pads or Liners
FREE Moonpig Greeting Card + FREE Shipping
FREE Sample of Thayers Hydrating Milky Cleanser
Get Free Travel Guides: No Credit Card Needed
FREE Rubbermaid TakeAlongs Food Storage Set at Walmart
FREE Tree Hut x Lisa Frank Sugar Scrub at Target After Cash Back
FREE Maison Aurélle Designer-Inspired Fragrance Sample
FREE Pure Leaf Mental Focus Iced Tea
FREE 8×10 Photo Print at Walgreens

Deals:

Subway BOGO Deal: New Subway Coupons for July and August
Up to 30% Off Sandals at Target
P&G brandSAVER Coupons: Get Digital & Printable Coupons From Your Favorite P&G Brands
Kate Spade Gemini Mini Bag ONLY $69 (Reg $189)
Get The Latest Upside Promo Codes: Instant Discounts & Cashback
Craftsman 5-Gallon Wet/Dry Shop Vacuum ONLY $39.88 (Reg $70)
Bogg Bag Accessories on SALE – Score Phone Holders, Dividers & More | Prices Start at $5.99
Moving? Sign up for these RARE Coupons
Reebok Back to School Sale: Up to 40% Off + Extra 50% Off Sale Styles
Huge Walmart Furniture Clearance – Prices From $19.60
Elmer’s Disappearing Purple School Glue Sticks 30-Pack ONLY $7 on Amazon
Victoria’s Secret Sale – New Coupons, Freebies & Deals on Panties, Bras, & More as low as $2.99
Eureka Max Swivel Deluxe Upright Vacuum ONLY $49.86 (Reg $90)
Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Air Fryer 3-Qt ONLY $31.97 (Reg $50)
Save on 12-Pack Coca-Cola & Pepsi with These New Soda Deals For as Low as $0.33/Can
Disney Store: 20% Off Back to School & Sleepwear Orders of $60+
Ninja 10-in-1 Everyday PossibleCooker Multi-Cooker ONLY $66 at Walmart + Free Shipping!
Blink Wired Floodlight Camera ONLY $29.99 (Reg $100)
Lenox Butterfly Meadow Melamine 4-Piece Bowl Set ONLY $9.35 (Reg $21)
Spider Man Toy Organizer ONLY $14 (Reg $35)
Home Expressions Bath Towels From $3.24 at JCPenney (Reg $12)
3-Piece Comforter Sets as Low as $19.99 (Reg $80)