Birthday Bonuses

Birthday's are another fun way to get freebies from restaurants and stores. I just celebrated mine, and no I will not tell my age! Let's just say old enough to learn a few savings tips but young enough to learn more!

When you are out and about, notice who has birthday clubs. I got on several mailing lists that I don't even recall signing up for. This year I received a Vicoria's Secret gift card for $10, a Mervyn's gift card for $10, a free entree at Sizzler's, a free hamburger at Red Robbins, and a free meal at Hometown Buffet. I also received discount cards from Hallmarks, Toyota service, and Bath and Body works. Not bad for just getting older! I even forgot to get my free car wash from a neighborhood business. My employer also gives a nice little bonus, two movie tickets and a $5 Starbucks gift certificate.

So start noticing which companies want to honor you (and keep your business), and you'll be pleasantly surprised. Happy Birthday to you whenever it is and many happy savings. Lisa:)

Redbox

I don't know about you, but I have been so busy watching the Olympics that I haven't had time to watch a movie. As you know I already suggested getting your dvds and videos free at your local library. If you aren't happy with their selection or are not lucky enough to live where there is a larger library that is well stocked, then there are still a couple of other options that are less expensive than going to your local Blockbuster or Hollywood Video store.

Many grocery stores and in some areas, McDonald's have a Redbox. This is a nice little vending machine that is for dvds. It only costs one dollar per dvd per day. Nice price, eh? Just remember to turn them back in on time. There are other brands besides Redbox so check around. When you first sign up with Redbox you get a couple of free rentals as well. You can check it out on redbox.com.

Also, if you watch a lot of movies you might want to check out Netflix. You pay a yearly fee and get to keep your movies out without late penalties. They are mailed right to your home and you put them back in the prepaid envelope and mail back when you are done. A little more money but well worth it in my case. Netflix can also be found at Netflix.com.

Wishing you many movie adventures, with money to spare. Lisa

Brown Bagging It

Okay, lets be real. Most people who bring their lunch to work really don't use brown bags anymore. I find people tend to use their plastic grocery store bags or have purchased a lunch cooler like I have.

It is much less expensive to plan ahead and not be tempted to eat out each day. I buy easy to pack items that I like and that are healthy. I'm vegetarian so sometimes I have to get creative or I get stuck in a rut. But lately I take string cheese, v-8 juice, low fat microwave popcorn, a fiber one bar, cherry tomatoes and fruit. It's all healthy, low fat and filling.

If you want to make sure you can stick with it, be sure to pack things that you will look forward to eating. Don't get in a boring peanut butter and jelly rut. Though that is rather tasty now and again! Make sure you get some fruits and veggies in there and a treat as well.

It is much less expensive than going out for lunch each day. And that means more money for your banks. They must be filling up by now.

It must not feel like a punishment or sacrifice or you know you won't do it. I give myself a treat every now and then by going to McDonalds and getting an ice cream cone. It is less than a dollar and only 3 points on Weight Watcher's. Can't beat that and it tastes soooo good on a hot summer day.

So get creative and start packing those lunches, and happy savings. Lisa