frugal living

7/3/2026 Weekly Freebies and Deals

Abby H.Leave a comment

This week was pretty chill- Lots of time on my weighted hula hoop, finished my sewing “in-box”, altered shorts for my youngest, and fixed some holes in shirts.

And we’ve been eating a lot of shaved ice. 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

FREE Sample of Cat Years Lickable Treats
FREE Planet Fitness Summer Pass for Teens
FREE Pizza Hut Pan Pizza with the Book It Program
FREE $25 at IKEA After Cash Back
FREE Smackin Garlic Parm Sunflower Seeds at Love’s Travel Stops
FREE Good & Gather Samples, FREE LoveShackFancy Tote Bag & More at Target
FREE Snack Product with Rebate – Up to a $21.99 Value
FREE Handcrafted Drink Every Monday at Capital One Cafe
FREE Zicam Allergy Relief Nasal Spray
FREE Amazon Prime for Students
FREE Full-Size Essential Canine Healing or Grooming Product
FREE Dog Toys
Fourth of July Freebies, Deals & More
FREE Reward Every Week with Panda Express Wok Wednesday
FREE Wireless Zone & TCC Backpack & School Supplies Giveaway on July 26th
FREE 6 pc. Chicken Rings at White Castle
Get Free Beauty Samples in the Mail From La Roche-Posay, Dove, Hermes, Giorgio Armani and Others
2 FREE Movie Tickets to Young Washington
FREE Sample of Elta MD UV Skin Recovery SPF 50
FREE Bug or Safari Animal Magnet Craft Kit at JCPenney + 10% Off Coupon
FREE Go Kart Workshop at Home Depot
FREE Full-Size Mochi Love Mini Clouds
FREE Fan Fanatics Banners & Bracelets Craft Event at Michaels
FREE NeilMed Sinus Rinse Kit or NasaFlo Neti Pot
The Best Free Skincare Samples to Request Right Now
FREE Star-Spangled Biscuit at Hardee’s
FREE $10 Off at JCPenney – Today Only
4 FREE Frozen Drinks at Casey’s Every Friday
FREE $20 Credit at Finish Line
FREE Sample of Pedigree Pouches Dog Food & Drizzlers Savory Sauce
Save Big on the Latest Titles with the 30-Day FREE Kindle Unlimited Trial (Lots of Titles! $12/mo Value)
FREE Stars & Stripes Sprinkle Cookie at Great American Cookies for Military & Veterans on July 1st – 4th
FREE Sample of Thayers pH Balancing Cleanser
FREE Beach Bucket Toy Set at Lowe’s on July 4th
Get Free Magazine Subscriptions: No Credit Card Needed
FREE Solo Cups & Lids, Olipop, Lip Oil & More for Target Circle 360 Members
2 FREE Retro Mini Prints at Walgreens
FREE MyLowe’s Money Day Giveaway at Lowe’s on July 11th & 12th
FREE Maxx Action Back-to-School Party Pack
FREE Bloomingdale’s Little Freebies Box
FREE $5 in Groupon Bucks – 1st 200,000
FREE Ice Cream Cup or Cone at Haagen-Dazs
Free Kids’ Magazines: A Gateway to Fun and Learning

Deals

Subway BOGO Deal: New Subway Coupons for July
Amazon Basics 2-Ply Paper Towels 12-Rolls ONLY $11.92 (Reg $23)
July 4th Clearance: Up to 70% Off
Oasis Beach Towels From $10.49 w/ Coupon (Reg $30)
SKIMS Discount Codes & Coupons: Up to 30% Off an Order of Panties, Bras and Shapewear
Wicked Caboodle ONLY $14.99 at ULTA (Reg $30)
H2OGO! Kids Tropical Outdoor Inflatable Mega Bouncer ONLY $148 (Reg $300)
School Supplies From 25¢ at Target
4th of July Clothing at Walmart – Prices as low as $1.00
20 Budget-Friendly Lululemon Dupes on Amazon That Perform Just as Well
Up to 75% Off Outdoor Furniture at Wayfair + Free Shipping
School Supplies as low as $0.35 Shipped at Walmart
Prime Members Save 50¢ Per Gallon on Gas – From July 2 Through July 5
Macy’s up to 70% Off Clearance
Yoo-hoo Chocolate Drink 40-Pack ONLY $10 on Amazon
Michael Kors Marilyn Medium Signature Tote Bag ONLY $67.32 (Reg $358)
Paper Mate Pink Pearl Large Erasers ONLY $5.90 (Reg $14)
All The Best Subway Coupons and Promo Codes: New for July 2026
The Best Handbag, Purse & Clutch Deals on Sale: Michael Kors, Kate Spade, MKF Collection & Coach Up to 84% Off
Coziest Pajama Coupons and Deals This Week from Macy’s, Kohl’s, Amazon, Walmart and More
JCPenney 4th of July Sale Up to 50% Off + Extra 30% Off w/ Coupon
Wonder Nation Backpacks ONLY $4.97 at Walmart

Dine Out & Earn Up To $40/Month With Upromise!

Abby H.Leave a comment

I’ve posted about Upromise before, and it is a great way to save for college for yourself or your kids, and earn cash back. I received an email this morning that you can earn an extra $5 on top of your dining cash back rewards when you reserve and dine at a Upromise® Dining participating restaurant—for up to 8 times or $40 bonus per calendar month!

There are a lot of local resturants in my area that participate in Upromise Dining too.  Find restaurants near you here.

If you are interested in learning more about all of the great ways you can save money for college with Upromise, check out their website.

Here are all of the fine print details:

*This Reservation Completion Bonus (this “Bonus”) offer is open to all members of Upromise® Dining who: login to their Upromise Dining account, book a reservation on the Upromise Dining website via the reservations widget, check-in for their reservation directly at the participating location at the day and time of the reservation as confirmed by the third-party reservation provider, and pay the check for the dine associated with the reservation with a credit and/or debit card linked to their Upromise Dining account (a “complete reservation” or “completed reservation”). For clarity, Members must complete a qualified dine at the time of their reservation to earn this Bonus. Members must remain opted-into emails from Upromise Dining with a valid, deliverable email address to earn this Bonus. Members will receive $5 cash back rewards for each completed reservation. This Bonus is limited to 1 completed reservation per day and may be earned a maximum of 8 times per calendar month for completed reservations made within the same calendar month. This Bonus offer is combinable with other Upromise Dining bonuses. Please allow up to eight weeks from the date of a completed reservation for any bonus to post to your Upromise Dining account. Please note that some participating locations offer rewards only on certain days of the week, and you may not earn your standard cash back rewards on the day and time of your completed reservation. For complete program Terms of Use, guidelines and restrictions, and the latest rewards calendar, visit our website. Other limitations may apply. These terms and conditions are subject to change (including termination of this Bonus opportunity) in our sole discretion and without notice to you. This Bonus opportunity is for a limited time only. Void where prohibited.

Fetch Rewards-Bonus Point Offers and More!

Abby H.Leave a comment

Fetch has some amazing bonus point offers.

Check your account to find more. If you aren’t already using Fetch, now is the time!

Until June 30th, you’ll start off with 2000 points after you sign up and scan your first receipt. If you are already a Fetch member, you’ll earn 4000 points when someone uses your referral code!

I cash out my Fetch Rewards points for gift cards that help me stretch my budget- grocery stores, Amazon, even Bath and Body Works!  I cashed out about $120 in rewards in 2025, and so far in 2026, I’ve cashed out about $40. I’ve been doing a lot more shopping at Aldi, so I don’t usually score the extra points for buying name brands, but every little bit helps.

 

Signing up is quick and easy if you aren’t already using Fetch Rewards! You learn more when you 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 2,000 bonus points. I scan all of my receipts (grocery, mass merchandiser, gas receipts, restaurants, you name it) and take advantage of extra point offers- the points really rack up!

6/28/2026 Weekly Meal Plan

Abby H.Leave a comment

0a5e9dab796cea8a07eabe4eb4795b9e.jpgThis weekend, I am on the ball and getting the meal plan posted on Sunday!

My goal of not doing a big grocery shop was foiled last week. I ended up going grocery shopping at Walmart when I needed to order a few things for the house- like washcloths. I have no idea where they all went. It was only $40, still well below my usual weekly grocery bill.

In the summer, we get into a groove when it comes to dinners. Easy, quick foods that are tried and true.

Breakfast: The kids tend to eat cereal, a bagel, or an MBS (Mrs. Bear Special) each morning for breakfast. I usually have a proffee. I cashed in all of my points at Einstein Bros. Bagels to get a free dozen bagels. They are sliced and individually wrapped in the freezer. They are definately going to be a hit this week for breakfast.

Lunch: I’m doing lunch meal prep for the week today- Beans and Rice bowls for myself. And a batch of Mac n’ cheese for the youngest. The big kid usually doesn’t eat a big lunch. He’ll snack or have a bag of Quest Protein chips and a sandwich.  We’ll be escaping the house on some adventures. The kids will be taking advantage of the free summer lunches (find out more here) while we are out and about.

Dinner: Because of the heat, I didn’t end up making meatloaf, so we may grill burgers instead, or make Salisbury steaks. I’m not sure which.

  • Sunday:  Gyro, Rice, Salad, Naan
  • Monday: Italian Night
  • Tuesday: Something with Ground Beef, salad, and mashed potatoes

  • Wednesday: Smoothies and Charcuterie plates (this has become a Wednesday special)

  • Thursday: Chicken Quesadillas, fruit, chips

  • Friday: Takeout night!
  • Saturday: Leftover Palooza

6/26/2026 Weekly Freebies and Deals

Abby H.Leave a comment

This week was incredibly busy for me. I delivered costumes for a play I partially costumed.

I also tie-dyed some cool stuff, worked through my alterations pile at home, and got back into using my weighted hula hoop.

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 FIFA World Cup Scarf at Home Depot on June 27th
FREE Skin Checks for World Skin Health Day on July 8th
FREE Handcrafted Drink Every Monday at Capital One Cafe
How to Score Sticker Freebies – Sticker Mule, Keds, Netflix and More
FREE 2027 Limited-Edition American Diabetes Association Calendar
FREE Full-Size Belle Aroma ScenTrio Petite Wax Warmer
FREE Beach Bucket Toy Giveaway at Lowe’s on July 4th
Get Free Samples by Mail: List of Legitimate Freebies & Free Samples From Brand Name Companies
FREE Sample of Zesty Paws Dog Supplements
FREE Coca-Cola or Levi’s Koozie Giveaway & More at Target
FREE Fourth of July Collection Donut at Krispy Kreme
FREE Vicks DayQuil & NyQuil Cold & Flu Medicine
FREE Stars & Stripes Sprinkle Cookie at Great American Cookies for Military & Veterans on July 1st – 4th
FREE Grabie Craft & Create Party Pack
FREE EXIT: The Enchanted Forest Party Pack
FREE Creed Aventus Fragrance Sample
FREE Copy of the Jiffy Mix Recipe Booklet
4 FREE Frozen Drinks at Casey’s Every Friday
FREE Frazil Slushie Every Friday in June
FREE $15 on Saltair Items at Target After Cash Back
FREE Fragrance Samples from Macy’s
FREE Original Glazed Donut at Krispy Kreme on July 4th
FREE Sample of Peak Health Digestive Enzymes Supplements
FREE Reward Every Week with Panda Express Wok Wednesday
FREE $25 at CVS After Cash Back
Here Are 6 Ways To Get Free Baby Formula Samples
Get Tons Of Free Stickers Online: Updated Monthly
FREE 6 Months of Amazon Prime for Young Adults Trial + Tons of Free Perks
4 FREE MiLB Tickets for Military, Veterans & USAA Members
FREE Olight Keychain Flashlight + FREE Shipping
FREE 15-Day Riversol Skincare Kit + FREE Shipping

Deals:

Get 50% Off an Annual Walmart+ Membership
Mario Badescu Lip Mask ONLY $7 (Reg $14)
Target Deal Days – Big Savings for Circle Members | Ends Tonight!
Wavytalk Dual Voltage Hair Dryer Brush ONLY $36.98 on Amazon (Reg $60)
Ryobi ONE+ 18V Cordless 3/8 in. Drill/Driver Kit ONLY $39.88 at Home Depot (Reg $139)
Walmart Deals & More – BIG Savings on Kitchen, Electronics and More!

Tryazon- New Crafting Opportunity with Grabie Art!

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!

Bring home over $250 worth of art supplies and kits with this Tryazon Featured Party opportunity, from Grabie Art! The idea for Grabie started during the pandemic when they experienced the healing powers of creative expression through art. Grabie is dedicated to creating supplies that are fun, innovative, accessible, and supportive for mental health. This party pack includes a wide variety of engaging art projects with everything needed to create a finished project. Art kits include: Magnet Painting Bundle, Drop to Puff 3D Sponge Kits, Mini Diamond Art Cards, Wood Painting Kits, and Shrink to Sparkles Craft Kits! Get creative with Grabie Art this summer!

Tryazon has 100 hosting spots open for this opportunity! Those selected get to receive a party pack for free with a variety of Grabie Art Kits to share with friends and family!

Learn more and apply here.

June 23rd is National Hydration Day!

Abby H.Leave a comment

Did you know that today is National Hydration Day?

While our bodies are 70-ish% water, any sort of liquid that you consume is hydrating? That means milk, soda, juice, even coffee and tea are all hydrating.

That’s Per the Mayo Clinic. I’m not making it up.

Too much of a good thing? Yes, you can be overhydrated, and that can cause an electrolyte imbalance, which can lead to cloudy thinking, nausea, vomiting, headaches, and even muscle cramps. This isn’t gonna happen unless you’re drinking over 4 L of water an hour. Overhydration does not happen often, but it can occur.

If you’re looking for ways to add hydration to your day, here are a few ways:

  • Shaved Ice is a great hydrator! We have this machine to make shaved ice, and it gets used daily. With or without syrups, it’s really yummy.
  • Add high water, fruits, and vegetables to your diet. This includes melons, tomatoes, cucumbers, lettuce, strawberries, and citrus.
  • If water is boring all by itself, try sugar-free powdered drink mixes or fruit-infused water. We have a pitcher similar to this.
  • We have a Soda Stream and have had one for over 10 years. It’s a great way to may carbonated water or DIY sodas. I love using the sugar-free powdered drink mixes to make fun, fruity sodas.
  • Carry and use a reusable water bottle or cup with a lid. Remember to wash it daily. Yes, even bottles containing water can still harbor bacteria. 

Have a Fun, Frugal Daycation with ResortPass!

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Are you looking to try something new without packing the family up for the weekend and heading out of town or spending a ton of money?

I recently discovered ResortPass through a friend who was telling me about their “daycation”.

They got a Day Room, and for less than $250, the family got access to the pool (which included water slides!), a room to shower/relax in. It sounded amazing!

Whether you want to relax poolside, rent a cabana, or get a day room, there are all sorts of hotels and resorts worldwide that are part of ResortPass.

BOGO Free Bundlets at Nothing Bundt Cake!

Abby H.Leave a comment

This offer is back!

Buy 1 Bundtlet, Get 1 Free: Valid online and in bakery from Monday, June 22, 2026, through Sunday, June 28, 2026, while supplies last.

I love it when Nothing Bundt Cakes does a BOGO. Whether you order online and use online promo code: HELLOSUMMER26, or order in store and let them know about the Buy one, get one free offer, this is a deal that can’t be beat.

And did you know that Nothing Bundt Cake also has an app? You earn points on each purchase that can be redeemed for discounts or free items! It’s available wherever you download apps.

Oh, and don’t forget when you are in the store to ask about their Books and Bundts summer reading program. Your kids can earn free cake by reading this summer.

 

 

6/22/2026 Weekly Meal Plan

Abby H.Leave a comment

0a5e9dab796cea8a07eabe4eb4795b9e.jpgI took the weekend off from blogging to hang out with the kids and work on another project.

This week is less busy than last week, so I plan on hitting up the gym for yoga as often as I can.

I did a small grocery trip yesterday morning, mostly to get popsicles and a few things that were needed for a specific meal yesterday (Father’s Day breakfast for my ex and the kids). I’m going to try to go another week without a restock shop. We will have plenty of snacks, and I’ve got ingredients to make cookies and everything on the menu for this week.

The kids will be taking advantage of the free summer lunches (find out more here) as often as we can this week.

Breakfast: The kids tend to eat cereal, a bagel, or an MBS (Mrs. Bear Special) each morning for breakfast. I usually have a proffee. I cashed in all of my points at Einstein Bros. Bagels to get a free dozen bagels. They are sliced and individually wrapped in the freezer. They are definately going to be a hit this week for breakfast.

Lunch: Between free summer lunches and the tons of snacks I’ve got in the cupboard, the kids will survive.  I have two plastic totes full of individually portioned self-serve snacks. I buy treats and snacks in bulk and fill up snack-sized zip-top bags. There are also preportioned fruits and veggies in the fridge.

Dinner: This week is another use-it-up week. We’ve got a lot of stuff in the freezer, including ground beef, nuggets, and frozen fruit.

  • Sunday:  Butter Chicken, Rice, and naan
  • Monday: Italian Night
  • Tuesday: Meatloaf, mashed potatoes, gravy, & veg

  • Wednesday: Smoothies and Charcuterie plates

  • Thursday: Nuggets, fruit, and chips

  • Friday: Takeout night!
  • Saturday: Leftover Palooza