Friday, January 30, 2009

Life Tip-Sanity Saver, Stop Telemarketing Calls!

Hello All-

Time is money and time is valuable. If you haven't yet signed up on the Federal Do Not Call List to remove unsolicited telemarketing calls, do it!

I joined this program about 8 years ago and the calls (or lack of them!) has been wonderful.

To sign up (it takes a couple minutes) visit www.donotcall.gov

It is worth it to sign up and enjoy the removal of unsolicited calls. Companies you have done business with in the past or are currently associated with can still call you. See site for all details!

Happy Living!

Summer H.

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Steal-Costco Boxed Card Sets

Hello All-

Costco offers a great boxed card set every year and it is a fabulous deal! This year there is around 40 cards (I forgot to count before I started using), but still at $14.49 this is exceptional savings over buying cards at local card shops, etc.

I like these cards because they have a custom look, but not a custom price! They come in a nice storage box that allows you to stay organized and they have cards for a variety of categories.

If you compare pricing, and if you haven't paid attention lately the cost of cards is astronomical...many starting around $3 each, that would take you to around $70 if you bought all these cards individually!

I love to have a stash of cards on hand for parties and events and just notes to friends and this is one of the easiest ways to accomplish this task for me.

I only have 1 disadvantage of this set, but the savings outweighs it! This year they have tried to improve this, but some of the card shapes (and it is noted on sleeve so you won't make a mistake) require extra postage. However, many of the cards I either hand deliver or slip into gifts so it isn't a problem typically.

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Steal-Entertainment Book 2009

Hello All-

If you haven't yet picked up your 2009 copy of the Entertainment Book...here is a great offer that I hope you won't pass up!

The coupons in this book are invaluable and you will save the price within use of 1 to 2 coupons, so it is a great coupon investment!

The book retails for $25 and if you have been reading my blog you know I told you that they will offer various discounts throughout the year, but you can't save as much if you wait, so this is a great early in the year offer that I wouldn't pass up!

They are selling the book for $16.25 and it costs $1 shipping, but you must use this link: www.entertainment.com/bigvalue (then type in zip code and you are ready to order!)

Also, this is a great gift idea for friends/family! Who doesn't want to save money??

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Savings Class-Update

Thanks to all my loyal and occasional blog readers! I hope this service helps you save money and live richly!

I have decided to branch out my blog service to education (that is my true love!) and am going to start offering savings classes to individuals, companies and organizations!

The focus of this class will be coupon use as well as online savings tips and the best part is it is FREE...it doesn't get better than this!

My first class will be offered tentatively in February (I had hoped January...but the holidays got away from me!). I am firming up the date and will announce it once it is firmly established, so if you are interested please let me know and I will add you to my contact list for class updates!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Sunday, January 25, 2009

Deal-Lands End Kids Clothes

Hello All-

This post is a rave about a company that has been slowly expanding their kids line and I have to give them kudos for the work they have done to increase the trendiness, but keeping the classic looks associated with their origins.

If you haven't shopped at Lands End Kids then let me run down what you are missing...Gymboree quality/stain resistance + Mini Boden funky/trendiness + Childrens Place pricing. I think you will agree with my comparison once you check them out at:
www.landsend.com/kids.....You rarely find this type of quality/fun at such affordable prices and they have even added SPF enriched clothing this year!

The best part? They are an online e-tailer, but you can return to Sears! So, if something doesn't work out you don't have to ship it back!

Happy Saving & Shopping!

Summer H.

Saturday, January 24, 2009

Savings Deal-Great Blog with Printable Coupons!

Hello All-

I found a great blog with wonderful printable coupons. I will add the link to my blog too, but check this site out....a great coupon resource and all you have to do is print!

http://printable-coupons.blogspot.com/

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Friday, January 23, 2009

Deal-Gap/Old Navy/Banana Rep. 30% Off + Free Ship!

Hello All-

Exclusively on-line this weekend Gap/ON/Banana are offering 30% off "NEW ARRIVALS". Make sure you click on this tab in the menu bar of any retailer, you can combine from all companies in 1 shopping cart, but discount will only apply to NEW ARRIVALS...this was a bit confusing, hope to save you that!

Also, if you spend $150 you can get free shipping...this is a bit steep for them, so I might suggest if you have a GAP Card or other store card from the 3 stores to try their free shipping options to see if your code will work (mine did not), but its worth a try! Or consider combining an order with a friend to save on shipping! You can return Gap Kids online purchases to the Gap retail store at Valley River Center.

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Monday, January 19, 2009

Savings Tip- Magazines Gift + Sharing

Hello All-

Magazines are fun and are a great idea for an inexpensive gift for a friend!

They are also an easy alternative for giving an inexpensive gift that will last typically the whole year. Your friend will think of you each time they get their new magazine each month.

Look for promos where magazines you receive might offer a gift or incentive to you if you give the magazine as a gift. Typically it takes a bit for the 1st issue to arrive, so you can give the current copy with a "gift certificate" for the future issue or print a copy of the cover (go to mag website) and give a certificate, some magazines will send announcements of the gift too!

Also, consider sharing magazines with friends if you have similar interests. You can subscribe to one, they to another and then you can swap each month once you are done reading!

Ideas for gifts include:
Parents or Parenting-baby shower
Real Simple, Hallmark, All You, Ladies Home Journal-Friend Birthday
Outdoor Life, Shape, Fitness-Outdoor enthusiast

There are so many choices out there that you will have no problem locating the appropriate one!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Deal-Clinique GWP (Gift With Purchase) at Gottschalk's

Hello All-

Just a heads up, Gottschalk's will be doing the Clinique GWP starting Feb. 22. I always encourage people to take advantage of GWP because you usually get great products to keep or give when you buy items you use anyway.

If you combine the Macy's at Gottschalk's GWP you can end up with around 4 gifts/year.

I am not sure what the GWP will be yet this year, but that is the start date and these can sell out, so I would head in towards the beginning of the promotion.

Note: I know Macy's will presale for the GWP with their charge card. You go in prior to the sale, pick out your items and you have to wait to pick them up until the promo period has started, but it is less busy to pick out items prior to the sale and then breeze in to pick up your stuff once the sale starts. I am sure Gottschalk's does some similar option, so ask if you have their store card.

Hint: Make friends with the associates in this dept., they are often on a bit of commission and will call you or notify you if items are newly released or special promos are happening. It works...trust me, I use this technique all the time!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Deal-Marie Callender's Coupons + Newsletter

Hello All-

The state of the economy is hitting the U.S. hard, especially for restaurants. If you eat out, make sure you are using coupons which are readily available!

Marie Callender's has all types of new offers/coupons, but to get them you need to sign up for their newsletter. They send out monthly coupons you can print/clip/use. This month that included 20% off total bill and some new cheaper menu pricing options.

It pays to sign up for newsletters, it is the easiest way to score coupons for places you shop/eat!

If you don't like to give out your email, consider signing up for a free email account through Google, Yahoo, etc. and have all your coupon/sign up mail go to this account so it isn't mingling with your other account!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Savings Tip- eBay, Store Research, Comparison Shopping

Hello All-

I am currently building a house and I am moving into the phase of interior decorating. This is always a challenge as you have so many things to think about and of course I am looking for bargains. I am not on a strict time line, so I can be a bit flexible and search out my options, but even if you are on a time crunch for picking up a specific item, this is a worthy savings tip!

I am currently working on acquiring all my lighting fixtures (don't stop reading if you think this wouldn't apply to you, the savings idea can apply to all types of products!). I have decided to go with a certain finish (oil rubbed bronze). I have a limited budget and I want to stick to it, but I also want high end fixtures that will last a LONG time! This is a hard combination as I have found out! I want simple classic pieces and you would think the simpler the easier, but often the simple items are found in high end retail establishments, that would burst my budget in a few fixtures!

Alas, I started researching to see what I could get for the best price and within budget. I started off by making a list of what I needed. I then picked my style (vintage farmhouse meets old schoolhouse look). I knew I had a look to stick with, but I was flexible (depending on price) on what my actual fixtures looked like. I checked several stores that carry "period lighting" and a local hardware store to see what I had to work from. I found that some of the stores that carry "period lighting" were way over priced for the materials and others could deliver and customize at a reasonable price. I decided my best bets were to look at 2 stores (Rejuvenation-Portland) and Restoration Hardware on-line.

I had reviewed what Rejuvenation carried and their process. I knew the lighting lingo (enough to communicate) and my parameters for lighting needs. I called the store directly to see when they might offer a sale. This is a great idea as many stores offer semi or annual sales on certain product lines and if you can wait, you stand to gain a great deal of savings. I called on Jan. 9, I found out that they were having a sale on Jan 17. I visited the store on Jan 11 and was disappointed to find out that the sale was only for damaged/returned/clearance, etc rummage sale instead of a 1st quality sale. I missed that sale (Nov/Dec)....rats! I knew this store was above my budget, but I loved the look of the period pieces they offer and for the price I can't find anything else comparable. I talked to an associate who let me in on a few secrets! The items for the rummage sale were currently available prior to the rummage sale at a reduced price. They would go an additional 25% off once the sale started and they would go for a larger discount off as the sale continued to run and the inventory would increase the day of the initial sale. This was excellent news (it cost me nothing, but to ask!!). My husband and I ran up the stairs to see what they had. We were able to score 4-5 fixtures at a fraction of the original price and decided to make the trek to Portland again for the rummage sale to see if we could pick up a few more pieces at the additional discount. On Jan. 17 (opening day of sale), we drove up to Portland and I am happy to report picked up 6 additional fixtures and a doorbell chime for 60% off original retail! I was so excited adding up the savings on the way home! It took some time, but so far I am within budget and I got the fixtures that were my first pick! None of the pieces I purchased had any defects, it was a real blessing.

I was able to do this because:
-I inquired about sales/talked to the associate to get insider information (always offer to get a business card or make sure they get credit for the sale if they are on commission)
-I was willing to spend my time (driving) and time (rummaging) to save some BIG bucks!


Restoration Hardware is another company that offers some bathroom hardware/ceiling fan and other misc. items that I am interested in, but at prices I am not! I called the store to see if they were offering some special incentives (they were not) or to see if I could ship an item from the store that was offered catalog/web only for no shipping (you can't either!...many stores let you do this...so ask!) so I was hitting a brick wall! I was frustrated, the closest outlet is in Seattle (road trip?), but that seemed pointless as I don't want to drive too far and eat up my savings in gas, so I checked out eBay for the items that I wanted to see if I could find them. I really wanted this Acero Ceiling Fan, on sale at Restoration for $459, optional remote $40. I got it on eBay for $220 with remote...new in box! That is a great savings! I also picked up a doorbell (regularly $50) for $16.95! Since then, Restoration Hardware is currently offering a good incentive deal which I might take advantage of if I can't find my items on eBay.

How I did this:
-Call the store directly always and see if they are offering any specials or inquire if they will match competitor store deals. Also, some stores will ship items if purchased in the store if they aren't actually carried in the store...so ask!
-Search on eBay for the matching item. Sometimes you can get these items at far below retail value. For example, the fan I wanted was a name brand that RH sells, but so do other stores, so I was able to save a bundle and get my first pick item!


If you have some time to wait, have some time to devote to research (or ask your child to research for you...they are good at that!), can be a bit flexible-you can save a bundle of money. I have already saved over $1000 on retail price of my housing fixtures and am below budget. I worked the system to my advantage, got my 1st level picks and can be proud I didn't just pick up the phone or log on and paid full price for these items!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Steal-Bath & Body Works Clearance + Packaging Swap + Coupon Book

Hello All-

Bath & Body is always working deals so use it your advantage!

Right now, they are swapping out their packaging on their Signature Line so all the old packaging has been reduced to $5. Stock up if you have a favorite scent!

Also, the storewide clearance is happening with deals from 50-90% off! They actually have quite a few things in the 75-90% section, including some nice bags/toiletry cases, etc. that can serve various purposes. I picked up a fun small zipper bag (perfect for catching random loose items in my purse) for 80 cents! They have tons of these right by the register! They are zippered pouches in cream and gray.

If you spend $30 in store, make sure they give you the Spring Coupon Book. They forgot to give me mine, but I went back for it!

Also, before going to the store google "Bath and Body Works Printable Coupon", there is one floating around out there for a Free Signature Product with any purchase. You could go buy the pouch I talked about above for 80 cents and get a $5 Signature Collection item (coupon only works on old packaging) for FREE!!! It's truly a great deal!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Friday, January 16, 2009

Deal-Costco Gift Cards

Hello All-

Check out Costco's selection of gift cards online, enter "gift cards" in the search section of their website for all kinds of discount cards, saving you at least 20%!

Also, search Spa Finder in the search box and they are offering a $100 gift certificate for $79.99! I checked and no spas in Eugene/Springfield accept them, but this might be a good gift idea of a recipient in an area that does use this service. You can visit www.spafinder.com to see what spas are available in which areas.

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Deal-Schwan's Free Product with Order!

Hello All-

Schwan's is offering customers a free product with an online pre-order or phone pre-order.

Just visit www.schwans.com and order your items, you must have a $60 minimum order. Then enter promo code "9K" and get a free ice cream carton or pizza with your order!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Savings Tip-Mortgage Rates Drop!

Hello All-

If you haven't checked into refinancing your mortgage to a lower fixed rate and you are at 6% or more....please call your mortgage lender and check on rates!

This is a substantial savings with rates hovering in the high 4's to low 5's right now, that can add up to several hundred dollars of savings each month!

The rule of thumb on this is if you plan to stay in your house for at least 4-5 years or longer and you will save the cost of fees to refinance in 1 year, it is worth the initial cost.

I was at 6.75% and just lowered to 5.25%, a substantial monthly interest savings!

This is an easy way to save money!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Steal-Pottery Barn In Store 15% Discount

Hello All-

Now through Jan 20 Pottery Barn is offering 15% additional discount on certain sale items in store only! This offer applies to decor, entertaining and accessories.

Check it out, no coupon needed!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Steal-Rite Aid (Kimberley Clark Product Deal) + Diaper Hint

Hello All-

(I start with a baby/diaper story, but if this isn't for you please keep reading the saving story is!)

It's spring and the baby boom is in full progress! I have gotten a few invitations to showers asking (its optional) to bring a pack of diapers for the new mom to be. This is a great idea and of course I want to help, but I also have a limited gift budget and I hated for the diapers to cut into that, so I got creative! I hope you will too, these are the kinds of ideas that allow you to spend and share!

At Rite Aid this month, one of the rebate deals is if you spend $25 on Kimberley Clark products you will get a $10 Rite Aid Gift Certificate by mail. This is a really good deal IF you combine this offer with coupons and items that are on sale in the store this week! They have an extensive product line, so you will easily find products you need/use on a regular basis (Kleenex, Kotex, Huggies, etc).

Huggies are on sale for $9.99 for the Supreme & Snug/Dry lines. These are in various quantities of 30-42 depending on size. Clip the coupons from the RG this past Sunday, they had 2 coupons for $1.50 off a pack of diapers. Rite Aid is offering a $2 rebate on 1 pack of diapers as well. So, if you bought 2 packs of diapers at $9.99 each, you will save $2 for the rebate and $3 from the coupons, bringing the diaper total to $14.98 for both packages.

To get me to $25 dollar mark, I purchased a huge package of Scott toilet paper, on a hot buy for $7.49 and 2 6 packs of Kleenex tissues (travel packs) for $1.99 each. All products I need/use and I will get the $10 Rite Aid Gift Certificate at the end of the month. I will then use this for things I need next month or use it towards some additional rebate savings next month.

Rite Aid has a really easy request on-line system for rebates and you can add to the rebates throughout the month and at the end of the month if you don't request your money, they automatically send it to you, so they couldn't have made it any easier!

I was able to get 2 packs of diapers at a great price to bless those new mom's to be and I saved some money myself...a great combination! You don't have to buy diapers to take advantage of this deal, you can buy any Kimberley Clark products. They are easy to locate around the store, the signage is good or check the rebate directory with the weekly ad when you enter the store, it lists all the options!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

FREE-Suave Product 1/14 Only!

Hello All-

Suave is giving away 1 free product (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, etc.) if you register for a free coupon today 1/14 on their website!

Just visit www.suave.com and click on "Suavenomics" at the top of their page. You will fill out a couple of questions to send your coupon and you are all done!

It will take you 2 minutes, take advantage of this great deal!

Thanks to a loyal reader in Jefferson, OR for this tip! Keep 'em coming, I always want to share your tips, stories and ideas with others, so please send them to me at summerhighfill@yahoo.com

Thanks and Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Saturday, January 10, 2009

Deal-Fresh Body Market VIP Discount!

Hello All-

Fresh Body Market (maker of fun bath & body products) that are high end and contain many vegan and organic ingredients are fun to add to your current product line up and now is the best time as you can get the VIP discount of 31% on orders of $30 or more!

They have a limited product line, but everything I have tried has been awesome! I recommend the Strawberry Slush soft soap and all the bubble baths (packaged like milk jugs in strawberry, chocolate and vanilla...yummy!

These items are great to have in your gift closet because they are unique and versatile for people of all ages!

Hint: consider combining an order with a friend to save even more!

Visit: www.freshbodymarket.com and enter code VIP31

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Deal-Southwest Airlines

Hello All-

I promised to post some travel tips when I returned from my vacation and although my suitcases have yet to be unpacked (hate this part!), I wanted to pass along some airline travel deals!

If you haven't ever flown Southwest, but you really want to go on a vacation I highly recommend this airline! It does have a few weird policies, which I will discuss, but the quirks make the cost so great so keep up the good work!

Southwest is considered a discount airline, but don't let that fool you! They actually offer way more perks than many of the airlines and this keeps me flying with them!

They only fly out of select cities (so for us Eugene/Springfield folks, that means a drive to Portland). I definitely suggest you price compare flight options before deciding if a trip to Portland is worth it, but many times especially if you have 2+ people flying it may be. Remember to calculate in parking (cheapest option is $9.50/day with coupon (must have on you) when checking out of Thrifty parking) or a stay at a local hotel that offers free parking (depending on your trip duration, if it is more than 5 days I would recommend checking into an airport hotel because your hotel bill would be less than paying for parking!

Anyway, back to SWA. They have a unique business model that keeps their prices low and service great! You can find the best airfares on-line at www.southwestairlines.com, they don't require a round trip for best fares and actually they sell 1 way fares, so this helps score even better deals. I recently did a Portland-San Diego departure and an Ontario to Portland return and it cost $300 for the ticket...that is a good deal for West Coast travel. Anything $300 or less is a good deal. Hint: West Coast travel is the most expensive in the U.S. (lucky us huh?) and we have the fewest choices, so travel along the Western corridor is so pricey if you are considering a trip to say Disneyland, price compare Disney World as flights to Florida can be much cheaper than to California....go figure???

Southwest (herein refered to as SWA) has an open seating policy. Don't let this wig you out, it is actually kind of fun! You just want to be in the A boarding section. To get into the A boarding section, get a Rapid Rewards account (this is free...it's there frequent flier program) and check-in for your flight on-line at the 24 hour prior departure option. This will almost always guarantee you the A section. If you haven't flown with them before, they have A,B,C boarding groups. A gets on first, B second, C third. The closer you are to the front of the group the more options you have. If you are flying with kids under 5 you can board as a family between A and B if you don't have an A boarding pass...this is a change to the previous policy, but it works good in case you end up in the C group, you will still get to sit together. My daughter enjoys selecting her seat!

SWA feeds you! This doesn't happen much anymore, but they offer drinks/snacks on all flights and will even give you (gasp!) refills which was nice for my starving child on our recent flight!

They have comfortable leather seats with more leg room than I have found on competitor airlines and the staff are hilarious! My daughter was in stitches as they announced "last one off is a rotten egg!". Our last crew broke into song a few times too, so that made it fun. Their employees enjoy their jobs and it shows!

They work hard to get you to where you need to be and have a good track record for on-time flights. On our last trip I experienced a few bumps, but they worked with passengers to do their best. We got stuck in Las Vegas with a potentially canceled flight on New Years...not exactly the city you want to be in that night! But, they hurried us onto the plane early to avoid a cancellation into San Diego because of fog. We did make it and early too, so I think this airline remembers that it is the people who keep them flying...that is a nice change!

Check them out, I think you will be happy and I know you will save $!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.

Deal-Walgreen's Photo Developing (Exp. 1/10)

Hello All-

Watch for good photo developing deals in the New Year! I like to shop around and find out the best deals for my pics!

Since getting back from my vacation I had 240 photos to develop. It would be easy, but not very cost effective to simply order all these through 1 developer (unless they had an excellent % off deal!). I look for pictures to be developed for 8 cents or less, this is a good deal.

Here is what I did:
1) Walgreen's is offering 50 prints for $5. I uploaded 50 pics to them and got this deal. I love the quality and customer service and I get them within 1 hour.
2) I then uploaded all my photos to Snapfish (I hope to make a photo book when they go on sale). They offer a prepaid option where you can pre-pay for all types of developing at a reduced price. You can buy 250 digital print credits for $19.99 (8 cents each), plus accounts get all types of free credits so check your account...I noticed I have 20 free prints good through the end of the month! I will use those first and then my prepaids.

It takes a bit of work to shop around, but splitting out your orders through various developers can save you money!

Happy Saving!

Summer H.