Sunday, September 28, 2008

Savings Tips-Online Retailer Update

Hello-

Those of you who read my blog read about my story of the on-line retailer that would not allow a return of shoes because they were "on sale".

Some stores have odd return policies or really stringent ones. However, if you don't see that policy clearly posted (within reasonable requirements)- for example on the check out page and you end up in an issue where an item can't be returned consider challenging the charge with your credit card company if you paid with a card.

I recently did this when the company wouldn't let me return and the policy was nowhere on the site, only on my receipt that came with the item. I challenged it with AMEX, my card provider used for the purchase and I WON!!! I was so excited, I got my money back and I got to keep the shoes! I will sell the shoes as they didn't work, but due to the stores lack of policy being clearly stated I won my case.

This is a challenge that I have used over 5 times due to on-line retailer issues and I highly recommend using a credit card when making large or on-line purchases because you do have the backing of credit card protection you may not have when paying by debit card and you won't have when paying with cash.

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Deal-Walgreen's Puffs Tissue & Charmin TP

Hello All-

If you have read my blog for awhile you know I am all about combining coupons when possible, but many of you ask me for examples.

Here is 1 example for Sunday, October 28 (Register-Guard)
-P&G Coupon insert clip coupons for Charmin & Puffs
-Walgreen's Insert clip coupons for Charmin & Puffs

You can use both of these coupons in conjunction with each other since 1 is a store coupon and the other is a manufacturer coupon.

The puffs coupon is the best deal. Boxes are 89 cents, limit 2, but you have a 25 cents off 1 box coupon so that takes that one box down to 64 cents! The charmin comes down to 3 packages of 6 double rolls for $9.75.

Hint: sometimes when a weekly coupon circular(s) have multiple coupons I would use I go buy an additional paper that ends up paying for itself or ask a friend for their coupons if they aren't using them! You could then use then the multiple manufacturers coupons for each item you purchases of Puffs and/or Charmin. You can only use the store coupon 1 time, but for example if you bought 2 boxes of Puffs (the store coupon limit) then you could present 2 Puffs manufacturers coupons bringing both boxes down to 64 cents instead of just one.

Also, while in store check out the new October FREE items in the Easy Saver Catalog and stock up on those!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Steal-Walgreens 10 cent photo developing!

Hello All-

Walgreen's is offering a 10 cent photo developing sale through October 4. You have to order 50, but if you have photos you have been waiting to develop it is a good time to do it!

Those in Eugene, OR you have Walgreen's opening soon, so this is a great place to try out if you haven't yet had your film developed there I would check them out, I have always received excellent service and like the quality.

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Steal-REI 20% Coupon

Hello-

REI members get a 20% off coupon on most items in store now through Mid-October. If you are an REI member you should have received or will receive shortly your Fall mailer with the coupon inside.

This is a great coupon because many items typically excluded on certain lines is included in this sale (North Face for example).

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Deal-Old Navy Petite + Tall Coupons

Hello All-

Old Navy has recently introduced petite and tall sizing on their website selection.

I have 2 coupons (1 for petite, 1 for tall) if you you spend $50 you can get $10 off. I am not using them so if you want one, email me summerhighfill@yahoo.com and I will mail to you.

Hint: If you aren't tall/petite by their height suggestions, but you are long torso for example (I am), the Tall shirts actually fit me better than the standard sizes. So, it might be good to try out the petite/tall if you have long legs and little torso or shorter legs/longer torso.

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Steal-Old Navy Store Clearance

Hello All-

Thanks to a savvy shopper I heard about the Old Navy clearance currently happening at retail locations. 50% off discount on previously marked down merchandise and some people were receiving an additional 40% off coupon when they spent $50...so ask about this if you aren't handed one in store.

When they do clearance sales like this, they are typically overstocked on merchandise and trying to move it quickly. It is a great time to stock up on items you need now or in the future!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Friday, September 26, 2008

Steal-Gap 20% off Weekend Sale (Stores & On-Line)

Hello All-

Gap typically offers 10-15% off coupons, so when they offer a 20% discount and you need soemthing, it's a great time to stock up!

This weekend Gap is offering a 20% discount on sale items in store and online. They are also running their Fall Sale so great discounts are to be had including the adorable Junk Food shirts...on sale now!

To order online use code: "SALE20", to purchase in store email me and I can send you printable coupon if you need it....summerhighfill@yahoo.com

Don't forget if you have a Gap card and you receive free shipping to enter that code for on-line purchases!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Happening/Deal-Classic Movies Regal Cinemas

Hello All-

Regal Cinemas is offering replays of movie classics on Wednesday nights (typically at 7:45) for a reduced price of $5. Upcoming features include: Breakfast at Tiffany's, Goonies, etc.

If you are looking to see a new movie or a nostalgic one...check this option out!

Visit www.regalcinemas.com for all the information!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Steal-Victoria's Secret Panties 7/$25

Hello All-

If you are a Victoria's Secret panty fan, take advantage of this great offer through Sept. 29.

All panties from the VS Cotton, Pink and Pout lines are 7/$25! This offer is only in stores, not on-line.

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Deal-Free Lotion Victoria's Secret Stores

Hello All-

The retailers are expecting bleak holiday shopping and already the freebies are beginning to suck you in! Don't be sucked in by the awe of savings, but take advantage of the savings and save yourself some $!

Right now at Victoria's Secret stores with a $15 purchase in beauty you can get a free Very Sexy Dare lotion, 6.7 oz size (not a sample!) value $20. Email me for the coupon link...summerhighfill@yahoo.com This offer is good through October 12 at a store near you. If you are at the Valley River Center store, it would be a purchase from the left side of the store (the beauty products, lotions, etc.)

Those who read my blog...this is the type of item that I will use to tuck in my gift closet or stocking stuffer supply. You do have to make a purchase (think a treat for yourself or a gift for someone with the $15 purchase) and then nab something for free! It truly pays to plan ahead!

Steal- $5 Savings Walgreens (Friday & Saturday)

Hello All-

I just love Walgreen's new promo tool....running a $ off coupon typically on Friday/Saturday. They don't do it every week, but when they do it is a great way to stock up on their weekly loss leader items that you use and keep some extra money in your pocket!

This weeks coupon is $5 off a $20 purchase this Friday & Saturday...email me at summerhighfill@yahoo.com if you need the coupon link.

Hint: Get a weekly flyer and the EasySaver catalog for September and let the savings begin! I make it a game of trying to see how many coupons I can use to maximize savings. Buy things you will use (paper products) to help boost the initial $20 requirement. You can use Walgreens coupons, Manufacturers Coupons and the $5 coupon together to maximize your savings! If you haven't yet purchased the "free after rebate" products this month...go this weekend! Buy the products that are part of the free promotion, use your coupon and redeem your rebate on-line, it's like they paid you to take those items home! This months items I have tucked away for a few stocking stuffers (Nivea men's body wash, Chemistry hair repair, lip gloss, nail polish, etc.) It is fun to make a game out of trying to get free stocking stuffers, so far most of my stuffers for the 12 people I buy for I have obtained for free this year, just tuck them away...its easy!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Steal-Free Youth Events!

Hello All-

We live in an area where there are lots of Free opportunities for fun!

I make a note in my calendar to check updates to some of the places that offer free events 1x/month and I update my calendar from there. You could also check my blog for updates from time to time too!

Free sites to check out:
-Barnes & Noble
-Borders Bookstore
-Eugene Public Library
-Springfield Public Library

All of these venues have events that happen on a fairly regular basis and 98% of the time they are all free. I have been to events at all of these places and feel that they are worth your time/effort to get there!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Deal or Steal- School Book Orders

Hello All-

There truly isn't a better way to obtain books at a fraction of the cost then through school book orders.

Trust me...with my education background, savings skills and reading obsession I feel I am in the know on book pricing.

Book orders are one of the cheapest way to obtain new books for kids. If your child is in a school chances are a book order comes out about 1x/month. It does require planning ahead and a bit of a wait to get them, but it is worth it.

Hint: this is a great way to stock your gift closet. I always look for books that are classic or fit a theme I know one of my recipients would go for. I buy them and tuck them away!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Tip- Keep Your Kids Busy...While They Wait!

Hello All-

A great tip of things to have handy when you will be waiting awhile at an appt. or any time!

This tips are courtesy of Parents Magazine.

Emergency lollipop (at least you will get some quiet time!), fave book, bandages, travel-size magna doodle, notepad and crayons, audio story, deck of cards, sticky notes. Hint on the audio story...I got smart and loaded a few "books on cd" onto my iPod...talk about a life saver. I usually have my iPod with me, so I just make sure I have a few books along and this has really helped make the wait not so challenging.

For those of you who know me personally, I wait alot for appt. as I have a family member that requires a driver to appointments. I know these things will make my life easier and I hope they will for you too!

Happy Tips!

Summer H.

Sunday, September 21, 2008

Deal-Border's Book Store Educator Discount Weekend!

Hello All-

Oct. 3-5 at Borders is the Educators Savings Weekend. Save 25% off list price of most items in store (a few exclusions-food), but a great opportunity to come close to matching the discounts on Amazon.

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Deal-Netflix Info/Free Trial!

Hello All-

I love Netflix! For any busy mom (or person!) being able to get movies delivered to your house and having no late fees is a huge convenience!

I have been using Netflix for about 4 years now and really love the options associated with their services.

Right now, I have the ability to share a 1 month free trial with you...if you are interested, email me at summerhighfill@yahoo.com and I will get you set up with your free trial!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Friday, September 19, 2008

Steal-Gift Certificates from Restaurant.com!

Hello All-

I have just discovered a great gift or personal use idea!

Visit the website www.restaurant.com where you can search for gift certificates for restaurants across the U.S. Then visit www.spoofee.com where you can surely find a coupon code...the best I have found so far is 80% OFF!! Today's deal was 60% off, so it does vary...watch it I would say wait until it is 60%+.

Just enter the promo code and save! The options in Eugene, OR are paltry...The Cooler is the only restaurant right now listed, but if you have family out of town (The Cali selection is great!)..you might be able to score a great deal on a gift certificate or if you are traveling and plan on eating at a restaurant, a great way to keep some travel $ in your pocket.

My Deal: purchased a $25 gift certificate to The Cooler in Eugene, OR for my brother-in-law for his Christmas stocking for $4!

It's easy...you print the certificate from home and you can present it to your recipient!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Happening-Clifford at Barnes & Noble!

Hello All-

Clifford will be making an appearance at Barnes & Noble on October 4. Check their website for additional details. This is a FREE event!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Footloose Massage Center- 10% Off September Foot Treatments

Hello All-

The month of September Footloose Massage Center is offering a 10% discount on all foot treatments.

Great time to get some great massage and other services at a good price!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Deal-Macy's Shop For A Cause-Sept. 20

Hello All-

Macy's is hosting Shop for a Cause on Saturday, September 20. You buy a savings pass for $5 to be used all day. This fee goes to support local charities.

This coupon is good for many items, including many items that don't typically go on sale. Coupon is good for 20% off (electronics too!).

Save some money and help a great cause!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Deal-Albertson's Goldfish Crackers

Hello All-

Albertson's is featuring Goldfish crackers (all varieties) as 10 for $10 this week! Great time to stock up!

Hint: This is a great time to stock up for snack helper days!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Blog Format Update

Hello All-

Those of you who have been reading for awhile may have noticed a slight change to my blog format, but I thought I would make a more formal notation on how I plan to change the titles of future posts.

I am going to be using a format of tagging entries as Steals, Deals, Happenings, Savings Tips....this will help me keep my data straight and allow you to follow certain topics if you desire!

Happy Reading & Saving!

Summer H.

Deal-Old Navy BFF Weekend- 20% off!

Hello All-

This weekend Sept. 19-21 you can save 20% on all your Old Navy purchases. You can save on-line and get free shipping by using promo code BFF or you can visit the store with a friend and tell the cashier the password BFF for the same savings.

A great time to stock up on essentials!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Happening-Detering Farms Apple Picking!

Hello All-

Thanks to one of my Fab 5 friends we recently visited Detering Farms (just outside Coburg) for their UPick apples. What a treat! You can visit the orchard, grab a bucket and pick your desired amount. At 47 cents a pound for tree fruit and 25 cents a lb for ground fruit you really can't go wrong on making a memory and scoring some yummy apples!!

This was such a fun opportunity for the kids who participated! This farm is much quieter than some of the others in town and the staff was awesome!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Thursday, September 18, 2008

Deal-Macy's Mens Night Out-Coupon Offer

Hello All-

Macy's is hosting a Men's Night Out, Oct. 1. Many mens pieces are on sale, but I have an additional 20% off coupon that I will give to one lucky blog reader!

If you want the coupon, email me at summerhighfill@yahoo.com and I will mail it to you....this coupon is good that day only, so email me soon!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

Deal-Victoria's Secret ($10 Off + Free Panty)

Hello All-

Victoria's Secret is offering $10 off and a free cotton panty when you make an IPEX purchase. This offer came through an email, which I would be happy to forward to you, just email me at summerhighfill@yahoo.com

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Deal/Happening- Willamalane Classes (Springfield, OR Rec)

Hello All-

Looking for inexpensive activities for your child birth to 5? Check out www.willamalane.org (this is Springfield, OR rec division). They now offer on-line registration which makes things MUCH easier!

They have a great new teacher (Candace) that teaches the 3-5 year old classes. She used to work for another child activity company that starts with "G" and she comes with a wealth of knowledge and is a great teacher!

They have many offerings and most are very inexpensive compared to other activities around town.

Hint: I highly recommend Fairy Tale Theater, making a return this Fall they expect this class to fill up so sign up if you are interested, it was a great summer class when my daughter took it! Your child will love it!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Steal- Fruit Roll Ups/Box Tops Education Offer

Hello All-

Many schools rely on Box Tops for Education to support some of their projects. Right now visit www.MyFruitRollUps.com/Sample to sign up for the Box Tops for Education newsletter and receive a FREE fruit roll up sample as well as a coupon offer for $10 some customized (by you!) fruit roll ups!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Deal-Barbie Diamond Castle Dolls-Sale

Hello All-

If you are saving up your Barbie receipts for the $50 Prepaid Visa reward, Toys R Us has the 2 Diamond Castle dolls that are part of the promotion on sale this week for $16.99!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Happening- Cold Stone Ice Cream Social

Hello All-

World's Largest Ice Cream Social, Sept. 25, 5-8 p.m. at Coldstone Creamery!

You get a FREE 3 oz. Make A Wish Creation for just stopping in. I haven't attended one of these yet, so it may be busy, but wanting to post as it is FREE!!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Deal- Toys R Us Grandparents Coupon!

Hello All-

In this weeks Toys R Us Ad there is a 20% off coupon for grandparents to use. I believe the voucher is available in store too.

Grandparents go to the customer service desk with voucher and get a coupon for 20% off 1 item. I used a similar coupon for the teachers voucher and it had FEW restrictions, it was a great coupon!

Hint: Have them buy an upcoming birthday/Christmas gift!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Friday, September 5, 2008

Steal- Macy's 1 Day Sale Savings Hints!

Hello All-

If you have read my blog you know that I used to work at Macy's and have offered hints in the past on how to maximize savings at this retail establishment.

Macy's runs a 1 day sale once a month and this is the best day of the month to make purchases as many items are on sale. Lately they have been offering a $10 off a $25 just reduced/sale/clearance purchase made before 1 p.m. Take advantage of these types of offers!!

The key is you have to buy before 1 p.m, but then the selection is better early in the morning, so it is the best time to shop. One Day Sales always have a preview day as well, so it is actually a 2 day sale. These coupons are typically offered on both days.

This is a great time to buy wedding gifts!! Many registry items will go on sale in the home department for around 50% off, combine your coupon for a great deal.

If you are a Macy's card holder they will mail you a coupon prior to the sale, but the Register Guard usually has the coupons too. I usually head in with 2-3 coupons, from my mailing and clipped from the paper. I combine my purchases into $25 increments or as close as possible to maximize my savings.

My savings today: My daughter wanted a hoodie ($26) and a long sleeve tee ($24) while we were shopping on Thursday. The wonderful sales person (Lynn-Children's)- reminded me of the 1 day sale and put my items on hold for Friday. I went back in and both items were on sale 50% off, bringing the total to $26. I then applied my $10 off coupon, bringing both items to $16!! An excellent deal! I have used these coupons all the time to snag bargains on the clearance rack too, I then save these items for upcoming birthday/Christmas gifts I know I need to buy...this is a great way to save money and avoid the hassle of last minute shopping where savings are going to be harder to obtain....you can save more when you plan to plan ahead!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Deal- Old Navy Baby Sale Time!

Hello All-

Old Navy is having their semi (I think) annual baby time sale, up to 5T. Sale is on-line and in store, check it out for great savings, up to 40%!

My Pick: toddler girl fleece pants/jackets...these were a staple in our home for the past few years!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Happening- Fun "Ball" Gift Idea

Hello All-

This gift idea just put a smile on my face and it just made me laugh....I had to share it!

Visit: www.sendaball.com and starting at $19.95 you can send an actual ball with a specific message to your recipient. The ball arrives via USPS inflated! It looks very fun....I may have to try it soon.

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Happening-Elmo Show, Hult Center Eugene, OR

Hello All-

Elmo is arriving at the Hult Center Eugene, OR in late November. Tix go on sale October 14 for all show dates.

Visit www.hultcenter.org for details!

Happy Savings!

Summer H.

Steal-Birthday Club Offers!

Hello All-

It is great when companies you frequent have clubs or free memberships you can sign up for because of course they want to congratulate you on your birthday! Take advantage of these free coupons!!!!

So far (my day is Sept. 10), I have received a free burger at Red Robin (plus, they will give you a free ice cream too!), $10 off my next food bill at Original Roadhouse Grill, $5 off a $25 purchase at Hallmark, Free ice cream creation at Coldstone Creamery, Buy One Get One Free Smoothie at Orange Julius, $10 off coupon for Victoria's Secret, 50% off meal at Bates Steakhouse-Eugene.

All I had to do was fill out the membership information, this is a great way to get exclusive free items and coupons! Take advantage of these types of offers. The easiest way to sign up is to visit websites of stores/restaurants you frequent and let the savings roll in!

Hint: Sign up your family members too!! This gives you additional opportunities to save.

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Steal- Lands End-Free Shipping Offer!

Hello All-

One lucky reader can take advantage of free shipping on their next Lands End order! I have a promo code that will allow you to get free shipping and I can share it with one person.

The promo code is AUTUMN and the Pin is 9432


Happy Savings!

Enjoy!

Summer H.

Deal-Kohl's Cares For Kids- Books + Plush

Hello All-

Always on the prowl for supplying my gift closet with great deals I wanted to tell you about the Kohl's Cares For Kids promotions! Each season Kohl's presents a collection of books and matching plush animals for the books. Each item runs $5 with net proceeds supporting children's charities.

Right now they are featuring a collection of books by Eric Carle. These are full size, hardcover books for $5 each! A great deal over the retail price and you are supporting a great cause. They also have the matching animals featured in the books (elephant, polar bear, etc.)

Visit your local Kohl's store to pick up your items today (in the Gateway Mall, Oregon store) they are by the entrance into the main mall.

Happy Savings!

Summer H.