Weekend Wrapup: What I’m Reading

I’m always looking for new ways to save! Here are a few of my favorite frugal tips & money saving ideas this week:

Homemade Play Kitchen: This kitchen is not only less expensive than a comparable store-bought model, but it’s the cutest darn thing I’ve seen in years! We have had the Little Tikes Country Kitchen for about 10 years, but I imagine this would hold up even better. How much fun would it be to personalize it with your choice of paint colors & custom curtains?

Expired Coupons Help Military Families: It’s been awhile since we’ve shared this information, but it is so important! Coupons can be used at the commissary for up to 6 months past the expiration date. Mailing leftovers overseas is a simple thing we can do to help someone else—it also helps alleviate the guilt of not using that really great coupon on time! Mel suggests posting on a coupon forum to find someone who can use your expired coupons.

Coupons Not Necessarily for Junk Food Junkies: I loved this Q&A with Go Erie’s lifestyle columnist—it busts the myth that coupons are only for junk food. I’ll admit to loving my fair share (or more) of junk food, but I feed my children healthy, natural foods. It is possible to shop smart & eat healthy foods.

Effective Haggling Can Bring Results: This article on haggling struck me as interesting this week, since my mom was just telling me the other day how proud I would been that she talked the furniture store into taking $100 less on my nephew’s new bed. I keep telling her a price tag is just a starting point. I think she’s finally starting to believe me. I loved that this article talked about effectively negotiating lower prices even at retailers like Target & Macy’s.