Win a $500 Walmart GC from Nickelodeon!

This post may contain affiliate links. Click to read our Disclosure Policy . Click to read our Privacy Policy

Submit your Holiday Money Saving Tip now!!!!!  

   

A HUGE thanks to Nickelodeon for sponsoring our Holiday Money Saving Tips Contest. My kids were HUGE Nick Jr. fans when they were little.

Right now you have the chance to win a $5oo Walmart GC right here at CQ as well as all the other Eleven Moms.  That means you have 20 chances to Win BIG!

 Be sure and read the rules carefully. Since this is a huge prize you will have to do a little work! I only ask that you choose one money saving tip! Choose wisely because your tip could be featured on Walmarts Eleven Moms page.

How to Enter: 

 

1. Subscribe to our Blog !

2. Submit your tip here!

Extra Entries!: (make a seperate post for each one)

1.Make a video about your money saving tip and this contest,mentioning ConsumerQueen.Com and post it on your blog or upload it to YouTube and post the link here!

2. Tweet our contest !(1 per day) Copy and paste this:

Please RT: Win a $500 Walmart GC at:  https://www.consumerqueen.com/?p=5523 #nick11

Extra entry for each Deal or Tip you post in our Grocery Forums !Post the link here to what you post.

4. Post this on your blog or mention in your newsletter(forward a copy to melissa@consumerqueen.com)

5. Vote for me for a Shorty Award in Finance!

https://shortyawards.com/user/consumerqueen  for extra entry 

All entries must be recieved by 9:00 CST on Dec 15th!

You must include your email address when you enter. I will not hunt you down!

Winner will be chosen at Random and will be announced

You will have 24hrs to claim your prize! 

Similar Posts

922 Comments

  1. One thing that has saved a good amount of money for my family is for my husband and I to bring our own lunch to work. Though we both work at schools and could get pretty cheap lunches, it is even cheaper for us to fix something early in the week and divvy it up to eat over several days!

  2. One thing that has saved a good amount of money for my family is for my husband and I to bring our own lunch to work. Though we both work at schools and could get pretty cheap lunches, it is even cheaper for us to fix something early in the week and divvy it up to eat over several days!

  3. I have leaned alot from all the 11 moms. Learning how to really shop with coupons and make them work for me has been great.

  4. I have leaned alot from all the 11 moms. Learning how to really shop with coupons and make them work for me has been great.

  5. I first heard about the site from Jack & Ron, and I like your info so much i subscribe via rss. I call myself very froogle but others call me cheap, lol.

    Basically all my friends come to me if they are looking to find something for a good price. They way i do this is i keep up with all the prices online and store, its kinda of my morning hobby. I check craigslist every day for stuff im interested in to see what the used price is. If i really want something and do see it on craigslist then i check ebay.

    After I know the used price now it’s time to find the new price. One of my favorite sites is http://www.dealnews.com they are awesome at listing up-to-date deals. Buy.com & amazon are good places to check.

    Then after all this i’ll go to google product search and look for it there. If i decide to buy online anytime during check out you see a place for a promo or coupon code i go check coupon mountain or retailmenot to see if i can get an extra 10-20%off or free shipping.

    So the best way to save money is be patient and dont impulse buy do research on product and price.
    thanks
    dm

  6. I first heard about the site from Jack & Ron, and I like your info so much i subscribe via rss. I call myself very froogle but others call me cheap, lol.

    Basically all my friends come to me if they are looking to find something for a good price. They way i do this is i keep up with all the prices online and store, its kinda of my morning hobby. I check craigslist every day for stuff im interested in to see what the used price is. If i really want something and do see it on craigslist then i check ebay.

    After I know the used price now it’s time to find the new price. One of my favorite sites is http://www.dealnews.com they are awesome at listing up-to-date deals. Buy.com & amazon are good places to check.

    Then after all this i’ll go to google product search and look for it there. If i decide to buy online anytime during check out you see a place for a promo or coupon code i go check coupon mountain or retailmenot to see if i can get an extra 10-20%off or free shipping.

    So the best way to save money is be patient and dont impulse buy do research on product and price.
    thanks
    dm

  7. I take my coupons with me EVERYWHERE… you never know where you might find a good deal that is made even sweeter with a coupon!

  8. I take my coupons with me EVERYWHERE… you never know where you might find a good deal that is made even sweeter with a coupon!

  9. The biggest money saving tip I have is buy only what you know you are going to use…you are not saving money if its going to rot or you are going to tosss it..in fact its stupid. Think and don’t be a glutton when it comes to coupons- sure if you are going to share the items or donate all is great..but people letting food go to waste is silly. This also goes for products that expire- don’t stockpile items out of greed of a good deal if its not going to be used its not a good deal in the long run.
    Subscriber

  10. The biggest money saving tip I have is buy only what you know you are going to use…you are not saving money if its going to rot or you are going to tosss it..in fact its stupid. Think and don’t be a glutton when it comes to coupons- sure if you are going to share the items or donate all is great..but people letting food go to waste is silly. This also goes for products that expire- don’t stockpile items out of greed of a good deal if its not going to be used its not a good deal in the long run.
    Subscriber

  11. My tip for saving money if for people with little ones at home. I make my own baby food. It is very easy and very cheap. All you need are some ice cube trays a blender and a bag of frozen veggies. As an example for about 1.50 at walmart you can make about 2-3 weeks worth of pureed green beans.

  12. My tip for saving money if for people with little ones at home. I make my own baby food. It is very easy and very cheap. All you need are some ice cube trays a blender and a bag of frozen veggies. As an example for about 1.50 at walmart you can make about 2-3 weeks worth of pureed green beans.

  13. I buy coupons in bulk on ebay. My son drinks soymilk and we use Huggies baby wipes. I can buy 20 coupons for under $2 and shipping is usually only a dollar. I use these at stores that double, some here in CA no longer do that. I also take part in four coupon trains from groups on CafeMom. I have newspaper delivery, use the paper for diaper changes, reuse the plastic bags from grocery to toss them out. I reuse baggies for snack items. I use lock & lock containers for my sons lunch and rinse and reuse them. He has several juice boxes for his drink instead of the disposable ones from store. It costs less doing it this way.

  14. I buy coupons in bulk on ebay. My son drinks soymilk and we use Huggies baby wipes. I can buy 20 coupons for under $2 and shipping is usually only a dollar. I use these at stores that double, some here in CA no longer do that. I also take part in four coupon trains from groups on CafeMom. I have newspaper delivery, use the paper for diaper changes, reuse the plastic bags from grocery to toss them out. I reuse baggies for snack items. I use lock & lock containers for my sons lunch and rinse and reuse them. He has several juice boxes for his drink instead of the disposable ones from store. It costs less doing it this way.

  15. To save money we use pictures we have taken of our son through out the year, and my son and I make them into ornaments, cards, decorate picture frames. It saves a ton of money and our family love the pictures! We have also made music cd’s of songs we know the recipient would love.

  16. To save money we use pictures we have taken of our son through out the year, and my son and I make them into ornaments, cards, decorate picture frames. It saves a ton of money and our family love the pictures! We have also made music cd’s of songs we know the recipient would love.

  17. We have a set game night and a movie night every week. It actually gets to be as much fun as eating out or going out for a movie, because the whole family gets excited for it, prepares for it and takes part in it. We like the Disney Scene It, Sorry, and movies from Redbox. They’re things that we already have and Redbox can be picked up at Walmart or our local grocery store for $1 or free on Mondays. Better than saving money, we can laugh together.

  18. We have a set game night and a movie night every week. It actually gets to be as much fun as eating out or going out for a movie, because the whole family gets excited for it, prepares for it and takes part in it. We like the Disney Scene It, Sorry, and movies from Redbox. They’re things that we already have and Redbox can be picked up at Walmart or our local grocery store for $1 or free on Mondays. Better than saving money, we can laugh together.

  19. Show your love & appreciation through homemade coupons, favors, just do something for family, friend, stranger or foe from the heart—priceless. It feels so much better that you made someone smile, then whether or not they’ll like the ‘gift you bought’.

  20. I sign up for freebies on the internet! I’ve gottne everything from Swiffer Dusters to mints that way. BzzAgent and VocalPoint are both great sites for freebies and you just have to give them feedback to be a member!

  21. Show your love & appreciation through homemade coupons, favors, just do something for family, friend, stranger or foe from the heart—priceless. It feels so much better that you made someone smile, then whether or not they’ll like the ‘gift you bought’.

  22. I am already subscribed.

    Tip: decluttering! I use FlyLady a lot for inspiration, but the particulars aren’t nearly as important as the attitude. If you approach everything with the idea that it must earn space in your home either by being used regularly or being loved, it eliminates a lot of STUFF! Then, once you get in the habit of requiring things to earn their space, you also get in the habit of bringing fewer things in, in the first place, knowing that you will likely be decluttering them not too far down the road!

  23. I am already subscribed.

    Tip: decluttering! I use FlyLady a lot for inspiration, but the particulars aren’t nearly as important as the attitude. If you approach everything with the idea that it must earn space in your home either by being used regularly or being loved, it eliminates a lot of STUFF! Then, once you get in the habit of requiring things to earn their space, you also get in the habit of bringing fewer things in, in the first place, knowing that you will likely be decluttering them not too far down the road!

  24. I sign up for freebies on the internet! I’ve gottne everything from Swiffer Dusters to mints that way. BzzAgent and VocalPoint are both great sites for freebies and you just have to give them feedback to be a member!

  25. Re-read the labels on products like laundry detergent, shampoo, dishwashing liquid, etc. The products change and the recommended about has gone down on many of the products because they are more concentrated these days. If you are still using the old amount you might be wasting money.

  26. Re-read the labels on products like laundry detergent, shampoo, dishwashing liquid, etc. The products change and the recommended about has gone down on many of the products because they are more concentrated these days. If you are still using the old amount you might be wasting money.

  27. I have 4 month old twins so saving money is HUGE for our family.

    I cut coupons, match sales ads and create a shopping list so I don’t buy extra items.

  28. I have 4 month old twins so saving money is HUGE for our family.

    I cut coupons, match sales ads and create a shopping list so I don’t buy extra items.

  29. Having a large family it is extremely important to save money. We have 5 children and 3 which are teens and they seem to eat us out of house and home on a continuous basis. They are also home schooled so they are home to eat 24/7.

    So…I have developed a 2 week menu…and stick to that menu and clip coupons and shop according to the menu for that 2 week period.

    At first my husband did not think it was possible to shop for 2 weeks and couldn’t understand why we couldn’t just go to the store when we needed an item.

    Well, after he saw me in action at the grocery store with my coupons and menu he realized it was a great idea. It keeps us from buying needless items that will surely spoil and well as junk food.

    We no longer order out every couple days because we have a menu and the food available.
    We have saved an average of 300-400 dollars! We used to spend $400 a week and now we spend less than $300 every 2 weeks:)

    My family is eating healthier and my children are all learning not only how to cook but how to clip coupons and save money. That is the best lesson I could ever teach them.

  30. Having a large family it is extremely important to save money. We have 5 children and 3 which are teens and they seem to eat us out of house and home on a continuous basis. They are also home schooled so they are home to eat 24/7.

    So…I have developed a 2 week menu…and stick to that menu and clip coupons and shop according to the menu for that 2 week period.

    At first my husband did not think it was possible to shop for 2 weeks and couldn’t understand why we couldn’t just go to the store when we needed an item.

    Well, after he saw me in action at the grocery store with my coupons and menu he realized it was a great idea. It keeps us from buying needless items that will surely spoil and well as junk food.

    We no longer order out every couple days because we have a menu and the food available.
    We have saved an average of 300-400 dollars! We used to spend $400 a week and now we spend less than $300 every 2 weeks:)

    My family is eating healthier and my children are all learning not only how to cook but how to clip coupons and save money. That is the best lesson I could ever teach them.

  31. I have a huge family, which includes 5 daughter in laws. All year long I collect up free samples of everything from pot holders to shampoo, perfumes and books. There are freebies all over the web. Then I make up baskets for them for Christmas. The girls just love getting their baskets since they never know what I’ve found over the year! Plus lots of these samples are really nice fragrances or hair care products that they couldn’t normally buy. When they get into them there is always much swapping , trading and bartering going on! Plus- its always fun to throw them a curve—like the newly wed who will get Luv samples this year! LOL
    I just subscribed. Thanks!

  32. I have a huge family, which includes 5 daughter in laws. All year long I collect up free samples of everything from pot holders to shampoo, perfumes and books. There are freebies all over the web. Then I make up baskets for them for Christmas. The girls just love getting their baskets since they never know what I’ve found over the year! Plus lots of these samples are really nice fragrances or hair care products that they couldn’t normally buy. When they get into them there is always much swapping , trading and bartering going on! Plus- its always fun to throw them a curve—like the newly wed who will get Luv samples this year! LOL
    I just subscribed. Thanks!

  33. My best money saving tip. Do not go shopping when you have no extra money to spend(basically do not spend what you do not have let alone all the extra cash you may have should be used to pay off debt first). If you do have some extra money price comparison shop first(basically find the best deal for your money).

  34. My best money saving tip. Do not go shopping when you have no extra money to spend(basically do not spend what you do not have let alone all the extra cash you may have should be used to pay off debt first). If you do have some extra money price comparison shop first(basically find the best deal for your money).

  35. I only use cash and stick to our budget for daily shopping. With holiday purchasing, I take it one step further-I have a detailed plan of what I’m buying, who it’s for, and a per person price limit. I try to shop in a wide variety of stores so I get the best price and make homemade whenever possible!!!!

  36. I only use cash and stick to our budget for daily shopping. With holiday purchasing, I take it one step further-I have a detailed plan of what I’m buying, who it’s for, and a per person price limit. I try to shop in a wide variety of stores so I get the best price and make homemade whenever possible!!!!

  37. I always go shopping the day after Christmas, which here in Canada is called Boxing Day. Great sales on Boxing Day and I start purchasing for the next year!

    I buy wrapping paper, ribbons, tags, tape, ornaments, gift bags, xmas stuffies etc all on Boxing Day and usually at 75% off the retail price!

    I save mucho money and haven’t paid full price for anything mentioned above for years!!

    Thanks

  38. I always go shopping the day after Christmas, which here in Canada is called Boxing Day. Great sales on Boxing Day and I start purchasing for the next year!

    I buy wrapping paper, ribbons, tags, tape, ornaments, gift bags, xmas stuffies etc all on Boxing Day and usually at 75% off the retail price!

    I save mucho money and haven’t paid full price for anything mentioned above for years!!

    Thanks

  39. I compare the price of the item I want to different stores around here. Usually the PX on post (the PX is like a huge WalMart for us Military folks) has the lowest prices, plus no tax! So I shop around for a while & then make my decision on where to buy.

  40. I compare the price of the item I want to different stores around here. Usually the PX on post (the PX is like a huge WalMart for us Military folks) has the lowest prices, plus no tax! So I shop around for a while & then make my decision on where to buy.

  41. The best thing that I do to save money during the holidays is to limit gift-giving. With my siblings, our gift to each other is that we don’t get each other gifts – simply gifts for the kids that fall under a set price range.

  42. The best thing that I do to save money during the holidays is to limit gift-giving. With my siblings, our gift to each other is that we don’t get each other gifts – simply gifts for the kids that fall under a set price range.

  43. I post items that I no longer want ot can use on freecycle and then I ask for things that I need. Recycling is better than buying

  44. I post items that I no longer want ot can use on freecycle and then I ask for things that I need. Recycling is better than buying

  45. Saving money this christmas can be as easy as having a coke and a smile. If you save coke points you can order gift subscriptions for popular magazines like redbook and good house keeping. When you have enough points you simply let them know where to send the magazine.

  46. Saving money this christmas can be as easy as having a coke and a smile. If you save coke points you can order gift subscriptions for popular magazines like redbook and good house keeping. When you have enough points you simply let them know where to send the magazine.

  47. Shop the sales but stick to your “sale” list or that $5 book you are giving your sister in law just turned into a book for her and a video for you and a cd for your husband.

    I subscribed. Thanks!

  48. Shop the sales but stick to your “sale” list or that $5 book you are giving your sister in law just turned into a book for her and a video for you and a cd for your husband.

    I subscribed. Thanks!

  49. I shop a lot at thrift stores when they have the prices half off. It takes some searching but I find lots of new things.

  50. I shop a lot at thrift stores when they have the prices half off. It takes some searching but I find lots of new things.

  51. Instead of throwing recyclable cans and bottles into the bins provided by the scavenger company keep them at home in large plastic bags.
    When you’ve collected enough to justify the trip take them to a recycling center (combine this errand with another such as grocery shopping). Recycling only takes minutes and often pays as much as
    $40.

    Thanks for the contest. Best wishes for happy holidays!

  52. Instead of throwing recyclable cans and bottles into the bins provided by the scavenger company keep them at home in large plastic bags.
    When you’ve collected enough to justify the trip take them to a recycling center (combine this errand with another such as grocery shopping). Recycling only takes minutes and often pays as much as
    $40.

    Thanks for the contest. Best wishes for happy holidays!

  53. My best one money saving tip is to conserve engery at home. Simple things such as turning off lights when you leave a room and setting the thermostat just a couple of degrees lower/higher depending on the season are super easy to do yet do pay off! It really does make a difference in your electric/gas bill!

  54. My best one money saving tip is to conserve engery at home. Simple things such as turning off lights when you leave a room and setting the thermostat just a couple of degrees lower/higher depending on the season are super easy to do yet do pay off! It really does make a difference in your electric/gas bill!

  55. Coupons have probably saved me at least $1,500 this year. The ones I find online save me about $15 every time I go to the store, which adds quickly.

    And I shop around before I buy anything.

    Also, I’d recommend cooking your own food instead of buying fast food. It’s cheaper.

  56. Coupons have probably saved me at least $1,500 this year. The ones I find online save me about $15 every time I go to the store, which adds quickly.

    And I shop around before I buy anything.

    Also, I’d recommend cooking your own food instead of buying fast food. It’s cheaper.

  57. My best money saving tip is to never buy things on credit. We start early in the year to buy gifts for the family getting the best possible deals so that by Christmas it is not a burden and we can relax and enjoy Christmas!!!
    cjnedrow@gmail.com

  58. My best money saving tip is to never buy things on credit. We start early in the year to buy gifts for the family getting the best possible deals so that by Christmas it is not a burden and we can relax and enjoy Christmas!!!
    cjnedrow@gmail.com

  59. The most money saving tip I can give if shopping on-line is always sign up for e-mails from your favorite sites. I get so many discount coupons in my e-mail. It really helps
    save.

  60. The most money saving tip I can give if shopping on-line is always sign up for e-mails from your favorite sites. I get so many discount coupons in my e-mail. It really helps
    save.

  61. Thanks so much for this wonderful giveaway. I subscribed.
    My best money saving tip is to use coupons. Whenever we shop, I make sure to make a list from the store flyer and go through my coupons before going into the store. We save so much with using coupons.
    Thanks again and Happy Holidays!

  62. Save money by starting early and jumping on sales as soon as they arise throughout the year. By the time Christmas comes, you’ll already be set!

  63. Thanks so much for this wonderful giveaway. I subscribed.
    My best money saving tip is to use coupons. Whenever we shop, I make sure to make a list from the store flyer and go through my coupons before going into the store. We save so much with using coupons.
    Thanks again and Happy Holidays!

  64. Save money by starting early and jumping on sales as soon as they arise throughout the year. By the time Christmas comes, you’ll already be set!

  65. I guess my best idea is also a great family tradition. Me and my daughters make Christmas decorations from all types of items, most of them found outside around our home. This is soo much fun and we just add them to the previous years collection. I will have great decorations and a great way to remember all the fun we had spending time together making them. And this is so much cheaper than buying new decorations each year. And any decorations we do buy comes from the after Christmas sales.

  66. I guess my best idea is also a great family tradition. Me and my daughters make Christmas decorations from all types of items, most of them found outside around our home. This is soo much fun and we just add them to the previous years collection. I will have great decorations and a great way to remember all the fun we had spending time together making them. And this is so much cheaper than buying new decorations each year. And any decorations we do buy comes from the after Christmas sales.

  67. I just subscribed and here is my money-saving tip:

    We have a large family so all the adults have agreed to only BUY presents for the kids. For the adults, each separate family makes a creative home decor gift with items unique to where we live (since we are spread all over the country- we do pinecone centerpieces, etc. for Colorado and my California sister does seashell wall hangings, etc.). Then we exchange with a different family each year. Saves on gifts and on holiday decor for next year!

  68. I just subscribed and here is my money-saving tip:

    We have a large family so all the adults have agreed to only BUY presents for the kids. For the adults, each separate family makes a creative home decor gift with items unique to where we live (since we are spread all over the country- we do pinecone centerpieces, etc. for Colorado and my California sister does seashell wall hangings, etc.). Then we exchange with a different family each year. Saves on gifts and on holiday decor for next year!

  69. While shopping online for excellent deals is really a good strategy, shopping the day before Thanksgiving is really great too. Most retailers have gathered items throughout their store and price them up to 90% off. We usually go late in the evening and really find lots of great deals and most people are at home getting ready for Thanksgiving.

  70. While shopping online for excellent deals is really a good strategy, shopping the day before Thanksgiving is really great too. Most retailers have gathered items throughout their store and price them up to 90% off. We usually go late in the evening and really find lots of great deals and most people are at home getting ready for Thanksgiving.

  71. I like to buy hamburger meat and other meat when it has the reduced, sell by today stickers on them. When I buy the hamburger meat, I like to cook all the meat and seperate the meat into 1 pound sections, so when I am ready to make tacos, sloppy joes, spegetti, or hamburger helper, I am one step closer to preparing my meal!
    shannonsnow@cox.net

  72. I like to buy hamburger meat and other meat when it has the reduced, sell by today stickers on them. When I buy the hamburger meat, I like to cook all the meat and seperate the meat into 1 pound sections, so when I am ready to make tacos, sloppy joes, spegetti, or hamburger helper, I am one step closer to preparing my meal!
    shannonsnow@cox.net

  73. We get all our DVD’s, books and cd’s from our local library. We have done this for hear and save hundred’s of dollars!

  74. We get all our DVD’s, books and cd’s from our local library. We have done this for hear and save hundred’s of dollars!

  75. Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent light (CFLs) bulbs. These bulbs use 75% less energy and last 10 times longer. They do take some getting used to, and they won’t work in every light fixture. But use them where it makes sense and save energy and money.

  76. Replace incandescent bulbs with compact fluorescent light (CFLs) bulbs. These bulbs use 75% less energy and last 10 times longer. They do take some getting used to, and they won’t work in every light fixture. But use them where it makes sense and save energy and money.

  77. No money for gifts? Simply look for rebates throughout the year and save all those products that end up costing you not one red cent. At Christmas have your family draw numbers and they can pick items from your FREE bin. Sometimes they can go around two or three times picking free items. Our family loves this and it’s turned into a tradition and almost more fun that gift opening.

  78. No money for gifts? Simply look for rebates throughout the year and save all those products that end up costing you not one red cent. At Christmas have your family draw numbers and they can pick items from your FREE bin. Sometimes they can go around two or three times picking free items. Our family loves this and it’s turned into a tradition and almost more fun that gift opening.

  79. My tip is to use coupons and shop the early sales. Also use eBay, it is a treasure trove for those hard to find gifts.

  80. My tip is to use coupons and shop the early sales. Also use eBay, it is a treasure trove for those hard to find gifts.

  81. This one is my favorite. You know those huge crowds of people that shop beginning on Black Friday and pretty much every day after …Well, I have learned that most of those great bargains are also available on the company’s website. This time of year, many of them offer free shipping. Plus, if you do a search for coupon codes and / or promotional codes, you will find that a huge number of retailers have hidden offers where you can receive additional discounts on top of these “doorbuster” savings without leaving the comfort and warmth of home. Some of these discount codes are pretty significant!

  82. This one is my favorite. You know those huge crowds of people that shop beginning on Black Friday and pretty much every day after …Well, I have learned that most of those great bargains are also available on the company’s website. This time of year, many of them offer free shipping. Plus, if you do a search for coupon codes and / or promotional codes, you will find that a huge number of retailers have hidden offers where you can receive additional discounts on top of these “doorbuster” savings without leaving the comfort and warmth of home. Some of these discount codes are pretty significant!

  83. It is very easy to save money. Do not buy what you don’t really need. Do not spend more than you earn. Do not buy a house you can’t afford, or a car.

  84. It is very easy to save money. Do not buy what you don’t really need. Do not spend more than you earn. Do not buy a house you can’t afford, or a car.

  85. watch out for sales and ads and shop at that time. go to places like: walmart, target and big lots. you really can save alot and you just might be able to get the majority of your list done.

  86. watch out for sales and ads and shop at that time. go to places like: walmart, target and big lots. you really can save alot and you just might be able to get the majority of your list done.

  87. I like to have little “surprises” for my grandchildren when they come to visit throughout the year. My husband and I enjoy going to the centralized garage sales (one stop shopping, like church, organization, school) and pick up items. Some are new and some are “almost” new. The children love them and always ask what did you find at the garage sales. You can get great items for 25 cents to a dollar (books, purses, games,toys,jewelry,crafts,etc)

  88. I like to have little “surprises” for my grandchildren when they come to visit throughout the year. My husband and I enjoy going to the centralized garage sales (one stop shopping, like church, organization, school) and pick up items. Some are new and some are “almost” new. The children love them and always ask what did you find at the garage sales. You can get great items for 25 cents to a dollar (books, purses, games,toys,jewelry,crafts,etc)

  89. i buy everthing on sale an with coupons if possible use trask bags to wrap large gifts and bags then can be used as they were intended ribbons and bows can be any color on bags an i use whits or green bags. i also wrap my gifts all gifts in foil. tape is’nt needed nor is boxes more than 2 hands and very little storage is needed for abox of foil in fact most kitchens have at least one box on hand

  90. i buy everthing on sale an with coupons if possible use trask bags to wrap large gifts and bags then can be used as they were intended ribbons and bows can be any color on bags an i use whits or green bags. i also wrap my gifts all gifts in foil. tape is’nt needed nor is boxes more than 2 hands and very little storage is needed for abox of foil in fact most kitchens have at least one box on hand

  91. We found a great deal on an artificial tree on Christmas Eve last year. We figured that, given the cost of live trees around here, if the tree lasts more than three years, we’re saving money in the long run.

    I’m also a big fan of buying up stuff on clearance after Christmas and storing it until the next year. It’s like Christmas all over again when you go to open it up!

  92. We found a great deal on an artificial tree on Christmas Eve last year. We figured that, given the cost of live trees around here, if the tree lasts more than three years, we’re saving money in the long run.

    I’m also a big fan of buying up stuff on clearance after Christmas and storing it until the next year. It’s like Christmas all over again when you go to open it up!

  93. I love making gifts and I keep a stash of supplies that I typically buy throughout the year when things go on clearance. When the weather turns cooler, I get inspired to start sewing, knitting, baking, painting and crafting.

  94. I love making gifts and I keep a stash of supplies that I typically buy throughout the year when things go on clearance. When the weather turns cooler, I get inspired to start sewing, knitting, baking, painting and crafting.

  95. I have always saved ornaments from years gone by and take them out and paint the ones that are plain or change the pictures on the already painted ones. I also use my pinecones from my tree and make beautiful wreaths by spray painting them. They have lasted for over 10 years. I just repaint, and they look like brand new. Also, I design my own Christmas cards with recycled paper photo copy them for 5 cents.

    As far as lights, I still use the ones from 2000. I make sure to pack them carefully and they still work. To save money on electricity I only put them on for 2 hours a night, from 8-10 when people are driving around to see all the beautiful displays. Christmas items made from the heart go a long way and have so much meaning.

  96. just like we switch lightbulbs, switch your xmas lights to energy saving LED lights…or even solar powered outdoor lights.

  97. I have always saved ornaments from years gone by and take them out and paint the ones that are plain or change the pictures on the already painted ones. I also use my pinecones from my tree and make beautiful wreaths by spray painting them. They have lasted for over 10 years. I just repaint, and they look like brand new. Also, I design my own Christmas cards with recycled paper photo copy them for 5 cents.

    As far as lights, I still use the ones from 2000. I make sure to pack them carefully and they still work. To save money on electricity I only put them on for 2 hours a night, from 8-10 when people are driving around to see all the beautiful displays. Christmas items made from the heart go a long way and have so much meaning.

  98. just like we switch lightbulbs, switch your xmas lights to energy saving LED lights…or even solar powered outdoor lights.

  99. My kids are making our Christmas cards this year instead of buying store bought cards. It’s an inexpensive gift for someone, and it’s more personal.

  100. My kids are making our Christmas cards this year instead of buying store bought cards. It’s an inexpensive gift for someone, and it’s more personal.

  101. Save money and trees when sending holiday cards. At most photocard websites you can also get photo card postcards. They are cheaper to order and will cost less in postage since you will only need a postcard stamp. They will also save paper by eliminating the need for an envelope!

  102. Save money and trees when sending holiday cards. At most photocard websites you can also get photo card postcards. They are cheaper to order and will cost less in postage since you will only need a postcard stamp. They will also save paper by eliminating the need for an envelope!

  103. I have three grocery stores locally, that are literally within a couple of miles of one another. I receive their weekly circulars and sit down and plan meals according to their sale items. I also stock up on the loss leaders offered at each store and take advantage of their offers of $10 off of a $50 purchase.

    Between doing all of these things, being prepared ahead of time with detailed grocery lists, stocking up and taking advantage of manufacturers coupons I have cut down our grocery bills by an incredible amount.

  104. I have three grocery stores locally, that are literally within a couple of miles of one another. I receive their weekly circulars and sit down and plan meals according to their sale items. I also stock up on the loss leaders offered at each store and take advantage of their offers of $10 off of a $50 purchase.

    Between doing all of these things, being prepared ahead of time with detailed grocery lists, stocking up and taking advantage of manufacturers coupons I have cut down our grocery bills by an incredible amount.

  105. I subscribed. Here is my tip:

    I put the cash that I want to spend on each friend/family member into separate envelopes with their names on it. As I purchase gifts for that person, the money to pay comes from the envelope with their name on it, and the change goes back in. The item and amount spent is noted on the front with a running total spent.

  106. I subscribed. Here is my tip:

    I put the cash that I want to spend on each friend/family member into separate envelopes with their names on it. As I purchase gifts for that person, the money to pay comes from the envelope with their name on it, and the change goes back in. The item and amount spent is noted on the front with a running total spent.

  107. This past year I started saving up all my money from doing online paid surveys and point opportunities etc and I’m using that money and the giftcards and THATS IT to pay for my daughter and sons Christmas presents! It may just be a dollar here or there, but it does add up!!

  108. This past year I started saving up all my money from doing online paid surveys and point opportunities etc and I’m using that money and the giftcards and THATS IT to pay for my daughter and sons Christmas presents! It may just be a dollar here or there, but it does add up!!

  109. To save money during the holidays, I go out in my yard and snip evergreen boughs and bittersweet from the bushes. I stuff these in old urns I have outside.

  110. To save money during the holidays, I go out in my yard and snip evergreen boughs and bittersweet from the bushes. I stuff these in old urns I have outside.

  111. Give A present in a present (for example, a hat in a matching scarf, jewelry in a wooden box, cookies in a reusable tin or cookie jar, barbecue grill utensils or picnic supplies in a tablecloth, kitchen gifts in towels or all-purpose cloths).

    mamamy26@gmail.com

  112. Give A present in a present (for example, a hat in a matching scarf, jewelry in a wooden box, cookies in a reusable tin or cookie jar, barbecue grill utensils or picnic supplies in a tablecloth, kitchen gifts in towels or all-purpose cloths).

    mamamy26@gmail.com

  113. We spend only cash in an envelope system. Once the cash is gone from our envelopes there is no more buying that item until the next payday. Food, household items, clothing, hair care, makeup, entertainment, babysitter… You name it, we spend cash on it.

    Needless to say it hurts more to spend cash than it does to swipe a card! And I spend far less on everythng!

    JLHalsted(at)hotmail(dot)com

  114. We spend only cash in an envelope system. Once the cash is gone from our envelopes there is no more buying that item until the next payday. Food, household items, clothing, hair care, makeup, entertainment, babysitter… You name it, we spend cash on it.

    Needless to say it hurts more to spend cash than it does to swipe a card! And I spend far less on everythng!

    JLHalsted(at)hotmail(dot)com

  115. I use food for decorations. String popcorn and cranberries into garlands. Use clove studded oranges as decorative and aromatic centerpieces.

  116. I use food for decorations. String popcorn and cranberries into garlands. Use clove studded oranges as decorative and aromatic centerpieces.

  117. My best tip is shopping for holiday decorations AFTER Christmas is over! In the past I have gotten expensive and gorgeous items for up to 80% off. I hit ever big store that carries decorations (Home Depot, Wal Mart, Target, etc) and buy them up. I have reuseable crates downstairs and there they sit until after Thanksgiving. It’s all brand new and I save alot of money this way!

  118. My best tip is shopping for holiday decorations AFTER Christmas is over! In the past I have gotten expensive and gorgeous items for up to 80% off. I hit ever big store that carries decorations (Home Depot, Wal Mart, Target, etc) and buy them up. I have reuseable crates downstairs and there they sit until after Thanksgiving. It’s all brand new and I save alot of money this way!

  119. At the end of the Christmas season when everything goes on sale and is marked down, buy all your Christmas wrapping paper, bows and ribbons, gift tags, Christmas cards, tissue paper, Christmas ornaments, Christmas decorations, and so on for next Christmas. You can save a lot of money by doing this. Thanks.

  120. At the end of the Christmas season when everything goes on sale and is marked down, buy all your Christmas wrapping paper, bows and ribbons, gift tags, Christmas cards, tissue paper, Christmas ornaments, Christmas decorations, and so on for next Christmas. You can save a lot of money by doing this. Thanks.

  121. My favorite money saving tip is to make homemade goodies from your kitchen and put them on decorative plates/platters/containers from yardsales or thrift/consignment stores. It’s an inexpensive and from the heart gift.

  122. My favorite money saving tip is to make homemade goodies from your kitchen and put them on decorative plates/platters/containers from yardsales or thrift/consignment stores. It’s an inexpensive and from the heart gift.

  123. Every three days we have leftover night. Not only does it save us money , it feeds us , and cleans out the fridge as well!

  124. Every three days we have leftover night. Not only does it save us money , it feeds us , and cleans out the fridge as well!

  125. The best money saver I use all the time is a family recipe handed down from my Mom. Cook cheaper cuts of beef in a mixture of 1 can of cola (diet or regular), a packet of onion soup mix and 1 can of cream of mushroom soup.
    You cannot taste the cola and the mixture makes the meat so tender plus yields a rich, succulent gravy.
    My family swears they are eating top sirloin when in fact I buy stew meat and serve it over noodles for an easy, cheap version of beef stroganoff.
    Of course I buy Walmart’s brands along with coupons for even more savings!

  126. The best money saver I use all the time is a family recipe handed down from my Mom. Cook cheaper cuts of beef in a mixture of 1 can of cola (diet or regular), a packet of onion soup mix and 1 can of cream of mushroom soup.
    You cannot taste the cola and the mixture makes the meat so tender plus yields a rich, succulent gravy.
    My family swears they are eating top sirloin when in fact I buy stew meat and serve it over noodles for an easy, cheap version of beef stroganoff.
    Of course I buy Walmart’s brands along with coupons for even more savings!

  127. my tip is that with a large family,I hunt all year,yard sales,clearance sales,an put it all away until needed,it saves me tons of money on gifts

  128. my tip is that with a large family,I hunt all year,yard sales,clearance sales,an put it all away until needed,it saves me tons of money on gifts

  129. I subscribe to your blog. I am stoked about this giveaway. I could really use the gc for Christmas for my 3 little ones. Wish me luck!!!

  130. I subscribe to your blog. I am stoked about this giveaway. I could really use the gc for Christmas for my 3 little ones. Wish me luck!!!

  131. I almost forgot my tip…I play “the grocery game” and save tons of money on my grocery/cleaning supplies/toiletries bill every week. You should check it out if you are a couponer!!

  132. I almost forgot my tip…I play “the grocery game” and save tons of money on my grocery/cleaning supplies/toiletries bill every week. You should check it out if you are a couponer!!

  133. Go to discount stores and pick up non perishable items like canned goods that are limited in variety, but chaper than even at walmart.

  134. Go to discount stores and pick up non perishable items like canned goods that are limited in variety, but chaper than even at walmart.

  135. One money saving tip: finding free events and activities. I once planned a whole trip out of town attending free festivals, free concerts, free nature walks, and free admission days to museums. This holiday season, my family can’t afford to go out of town so we are pretending to be “tourists” and I’ve filled our calendar with great local seasonal events – all free!

  136. One money saving tip: finding free events and activities. I once planned a whole trip out of town attending free festivals, free concerts, free nature walks, and free admission days to museums. This holiday season, my family can’t afford to go out of town so we are pretending to be “tourists” and I’ve filled our calendar with great local seasonal events – all free!

  137. We have a big side freezer. What we’ve done that has saved alot of money is to keep a list and update that list, of everything in the freezer. As soon as we knew what was in the freezer, we found we didn’t have 20 steaks stored in there from 2 years ago!

  138. We have a big side freezer. What we’ve done that has saved alot of money is to keep a list and update that list, of everything in the freezer. As soon as we knew what was in the freezer, we found we didn’t have 20 steaks stored in there from 2 years ago!

  139. Bring cash only when you shop for Christmas so that you are not tempted to buy on credit, and begin you holiday shopping by going to the dollar stores and thrift stores. It’s amazing how many new items show up at thrift stores, and how many name brand items that were once $15-$40 show up at the dollar stores.

  140. Bring cash only when you shop for Christmas so that you are not tempted to buy on credit, and begin you holiday shopping by going to the dollar stores and thrift stores. It’s amazing how many new items show up at thrift stores, and how many name brand items that were once $15-$40 show up at the dollar stores.

  141. Before you hit the stores – go shopping in your (gift) closet! Chances are you will find lovely gifts you bought on clearance that are too young for your children/their friends anymore, or deorations you bought at 90% off that you never used. List them on-line (maybe Craigslist), sell them for CASH, then go shopping for what you really need and want this year!

  142. Before you hit the stores – go shopping in your (gift) closet! Chances are you will find lovely gifts you bought on clearance that are too young for your children/their friends anymore, or deorations you bought at 90% off that you never used. List them on-line (maybe Craigslist), sell them for CASH, then go shopping for what you really need and want this year!

  143. My money saving tip is to just make a list of exactly what you want to buy and stick to it!! Also, I get 6 sets of coupons each week so I buy things on sale and with a coupon and I stock up on things only when on sale (for a great deal too).

  144. My money saving tip is to just make a list of exactly what you want to buy and stick to it!! Also, I get 6 sets of coupons each week so I buy things on sale and with a coupon and I stock up on things only when on sale (for a great deal too).

  145. Take a good look at your Christmas card list. With postage at 42 cents a stamp, if you remove 25 people from your list you can save $10. Eliminate local people you are going to see, and maybe those you haven’t seen in years…they will probably thank you.

  146. Take a good look at your Christmas card list. With postage at 42 cents a stamp, if you remove 25 people from your list you can save $10. Eliminate local people you are going to see, and maybe those you haven’t seen in years…they will probably thank you.

  147. Instead of greeting cards, sent postcards instead. They are less expensive to buy and mail. Also, you can buy blank cards and make your own personalized design. Money-saving and unique.

  148. Instead of greeting cards, sent postcards instead. They are less expensive to buy and mail. Also, you can buy blank cards and make your own personalized design. Money-saving and unique.

  149. save the trimings from your christmas tree, pruning bushes, evergreens and use them for a wreath or swag for your door and table. Add decorations with things you alredy have like nuts, ribbons{saved from presents all year}toys,ornaments etc.Its all free

  150. save the trimings from your christmas tree, pruning bushes, evergreens and use them for a wreath or swag for your door and table. Add decorations with things you alredy have like nuts, ribbons{saved from presents all year}toys,ornaments etc.Its all free

  151. We have a big family. For Christmas, we each draw one name and we buy one gift for that person. We set a limit for amount to spend. It saves us all a lot of money. It’s much cheaper than buying a gift for everyone and it doesn’t break anyone’s pocketbook. We all have fun.
    Thank you for offering this great giveaway.

  152. We have a big family. For Christmas, we each draw one name and we buy one gift for that person. We set a limit for amount to spend. It saves us all a lot of money. It’s much cheaper than buying a gift for everyone and it doesn’t break anyone’s pocketbook. We all have fun.
    Thank you for offering this great giveaway.

  153. My best money saving tip is to buy for more than one meal. We have standbys that we get every two weeks that we go shopping. With things like chicken cutlets, spaghetti noodles, ground beef, turkey dogs, frozen veggies, kidney beans, tomato sauce, milk, cheese, and bread you can make a multitude of meals.

    *subscribed on sage*

  154. My best money saving tip is to buy for more than one meal. We have standbys that we get every two weeks that we go shopping. With things like chicken cutlets, spaghetti noodles, ground beef, turkey dogs, frozen veggies, kidney beans, tomato sauce, milk, cheese, and bread you can make a multitude of meals.

    *subscribed on sage*

  155. I have learned to take my coupons with me everywhere I go. It helps when I see something on clearance or a good sale. I have also learned not to buy it just because I have a coupon for it. I also have a great friend Melissa that helps me out!!!

  156. I have learned to take my coupons with me everywhere I go. It helps when I see something on clearance or a good sale. I have also learned not to buy it just because I have a coupon for it. I also have a great friend Melissa that helps me out!!!

  157. The best tip I can give to have a frugal holiday is to plan ahead. I start shopping for the next Christmas the day after Christmas! I always find amazing deals that are even better than the before-Christmas sales. I keep a notebook and write down everything, including where I “hide” the gifts once they are bought. Throughout the year, when I come across an incredible deal, I buy it early, write it down, and store it at home. I’m usually done with shopping before the holiday season even comes around, and I have spread it out over the year so everything doesn’t hit at once!

  158. The best tip I can give to have a frugal holiday is to plan ahead. I start shopping for the next Christmas the day after Christmas! I always find amazing deals that are even better than the before-Christmas sales. I keep a notebook and write down everything, including where I “hide” the gifts once they are bought. Throughout the year, when I come across an incredible deal, I buy it early, write it down, and store it at home. I’m usually done with shopping before the holiday season even comes around, and I have spread it out over the year so everything doesn’t hit at once!

  159. i just subscribed to your blog and will twitter your contest today!
    my best money saving tip is: make a menu! then make your grocery list from it! it insures you always have your ingredients on hand so no more last minute runs to the store and far fewer impulse purchases!

  160. i just subscribed to your blog and will twitter your contest today!
    my best money saving tip is: make a menu! then make your grocery list from it! it insures you always have your ingredients on hand so no more last minute runs to the store and far fewer impulse purchases!

  161. We give gifts of time – either by making coupons for things like doing the dishes for a week… or no football for an entire weekend…

    Or by planning things for our family… like giving baby sitting for a friend or family member so that they can go have a date night.

  162. We give gifts of time – either by making coupons for things like doing the dishes for a week… or no football for an entire weekend…

    Or by planning things for our family… like giving baby sitting for a friend or family member so that they can go have a date night.

  163. Keep plugged in decorations in mind when contemplating your electric bill. Unplug Christmas lights and decorations (and for that matter, other applicances, etc.) when not in use. So much unused and wasted energy continues to go through those plugs, even when they are in the ‘off’ position, which is a drain on the environment AND on your electricity bill. The US Dept of Energy says that not only do appliances continue to draw electricity while the products are turned off, but in the average home nearly 75% of all electricty used to power electronics is consumed by products that are switched off. It will become a good and easy habit once you do it enough!

  164. Keep plugged in decorations in mind when contemplating your electric bill. Unplug Christmas lights and decorations (and for that matter, other applicances, etc.) when not in use. So much unused and wasted energy continues to go through those plugs, even when they are in the ‘off’ position, which is a drain on the environment AND on your electricity bill. The US Dept of Energy says that not only do appliances continue to draw electricity while the products are turned off, but in the average home nearly 75% of all electricty used to power electronics is consumed by products that are switched off. It will become a good and easy habit once you do it enough!

  165. I am not a coupon regular, but sometimes you can get things for free with them. My fave way to use coupons? With all Kroger stores you can load coupons to your card. If you only load things you know you will use, its a handy discount at the register! I haven’t got anything for free yet, but I have saved some money buying things I buy anyway, so its a great deal for me!

  166. I am not a coupon regular, but sometimes you can get things for free with them. My fave way to use coupons? With all Kroger stores you can load coupons to your card. If you only load things you know you will use, its a handy discount at the register! I haven’t got anything for free yet, but I have saved some money buying things I buy anyway, so its a great deal for me!

  167. We save money by not using credit cards or if we do use them we pay off the full amount within that month! For our Christmas gift buying we start early in the year and try to get good deals throughout the year so there isn’t any last minute panic buying!!
    cjnedrow@gmail.com

  168. We save money by not using credit cards or if we do use them we pay off the full amount within that month! For our Christmas gift buying we start early in the year and try to get good deals throughout the year so there isn’t any last minute panic buying!!
    cjnedrow@gmail.com

  169. I do a lot of my shopping online, which saves on gas and crowds, but the shipping can be a large expense if you are not careful. The best thing I have found is with Amazon.com if you join their Amazon Prime, for $9.99 a month (which can be cancelled at any time, and they give a free 2 week trial) they will ship anything you order with 2 day shipping at no charge. A major site like Amazon has so many options for presents, that you can do the majority of your shopping and save big bucks on shipping.

  170. I do a lot of my shopping online, which saves on gas and crowds, but the shipping can be a large expense if you are not careful. The best thing I have found is with Amazon.com if you join their Amazon Prime, for $9.99 a month (which can be cancelled at any time, and they give a free 2 week trial) they will ship anything you order with 2 day shipping at no charge. A major site like Amazon has so many options for presents, that you can do the majority of your shopping and save big bucks on shipping.

  171. Gift cards are actually great presents that save a lot of money. You stay within budget and you don’t have to worry about taxes as most cards only cost the amount of the card. It also saves on wrapping paper as you can just put it in a card. Plus the person gets what they want!

  172. Gift cards are actually great presents that save a lot of money. You stay within budget and you don’t have to worry about taxes as most cards only cost the amount of the card. It also saves on wrapping paper as you can just put it in a card. Plus the person gets what they want!

  173. I can think of many money saving tips but I will limit them. The first is if you have children let them draw pictures and frame them in cheap frames. My little girl’s grandparents love receiving her “artwork”. It isn’t pages from a coloring book that we put in cheap frames but drawings on white paper or construction paper or matte board.
    Another money saving tip is related to food. I know I spend alot more during this time of year on food so I really keep my eyes open for coupons.
    Thanks for the opportunity.

  174. I can think of many money saving tips but I will limit them. The first is if you have children let them draw pictures and frame them in cheap frames. My little girl’s grandparents love receiving her “artwork”. It isn’t pages from a coloring book that we put in cheap frames but drawings on white paper or construction paper or matte board.
    Another money saving tip is related to food. I know I spend alot more during this time of year on food so I really keep my eyes open for coupons.
    Thanks for the opportunity.

  175. Wrap your christmas gifts in recycled items such as newspaper[comics make cute wrappings]calendar pages ,grocery bags etc.

  176. Wrap your christmas gifts in recycled items such as newspaper[comics make cute wrappings]calendar pages ,grocery bags etc.

  177. The Dollar Store. Seriously. Stocking stuffers get so expensive and really add up. And if your house is anything like mine, the stocking stuffers get tossed aside for bigger and better presents. $10 fills a stocking at the Dollar store. Fuzzy slipper socks, lip gloss, stuffed animals, candy, hair things, markers, floam, silly putty etc…$1 each.

    For online shopping check http://www.retailmenot.com before you check out anywhere. Chances are there is a discount code to be found.

    ckbruce(at)rocketmail(dot)com

  178. The Dollar Store. Seriously. Stocking stuffers get so expensive and really add up. And if your house is anything like mine, the stocking stuffers get tossed aside for bigger and better presents. $10 fills a stocking at the Dollar store. Fuzzy slipper socks, lip gloss, stuffed animals, candy, hair things, markers, floam, silly putty etc…$1 each.

    For online shopping check http://www.retailmenot.com before you check out anywhere. Chances are there is a discount code to be found.

    ckbruce(at)rocketmail(dot)com

  179. I shop for gifts year-round on clearance aisles, endcaps at Target, Lands End Overstocks, and anywhere else I can find them! I’m also a subscriber!

  180. I only buy an item at the cheapest place I hate to pay more for the same thing when I know it is cheaper somewhere else. I love to use coupons you can save more then you think you can.I love to make cards and love to paint crafts of all kinds,makes nice gifts and something from the heart!
    tishajean@charter.net

  181. I shop for gifts year-round on clearance aisles, endcaps at Target, Lands End Overstocks, and anywhere else I can find them! I’m also a subscriber!

  182. I only buy an item at the cheapest place I hate to pay more for the same thing when I know it is cheaper somewhere else. I love to use coupons you can save more then you think you can.I love to make cards and love to paint crafts of all kinds,makes nice gifts and something from the heart!
    tishajean@charter.net

  183. Couponing has become my new money saver. I don’t need to change what I purchase and I am still saving money. My grocery bill has dropped by about 25% just by taking a few extra minutes to clip and use coupons.
    beccaj73[at]hickorytech[dot]net

  184. Couponing has become my new money saver. I don’t need to change what I purchase and I am still saving money. My grocery bill has dropped by about 25% just by taking a few extra minutes to clip and use coupons.
    beccaj73[at]hickorytech[dot]net

  185. The best way to save money during the holidays is to pare down your list of gift recipients and to give handmade/homemade gifts whenever possible (this is especially nice the gift is from a child)!

  186. The best way to save money during the holidays is to pare down your list of gift recipients and to give handmade/homemade gifts whenever possible (this is especially nice the gift is from a child)!

  187. I have been able to save a lot with coupons! I find the important thing is to stay organized. I have about seven little photo albums which I use to keep my coupons in. Each book keeps a different category of coupons. Then when I go in the store I can easily find the coupon I want by simply flipping through the photo album!! It makes things so much easier!
    cjnedrow@gmail.com

  188. I have been able to save a lot with coupons! I find the important thing is to stay organized. I have about seven little photo albums which I use to keep my coupons in. Each book keeps a different category of coupons. Then when I go in the store I can easily find the coupon I want by simply flipping through the photo album!! It makes things so much easier!
    cjnedrow@gmail.com

  189. I buy all of my gift wrap, decorations, and Christmas cards after the Holiday. This saves me a good bit of money and I am ready to wrap the gifts as I buy them.

  190. I buy all of my gift wrap, decorations, and Christmas cards after the Holiday. This saves me a good bit of money and I am ready to wrap the gifts as I buy them.

  191. I make one or two kinds of treats in HUGE bulk amounts at the begining of the season that can be frozen. I take them out in small amounts and use them for when we have guests over, as gifts and when we need to take something to a holiday party. Saves time and money, buying in bulk and only once.

  192. I make one or two kinds of treats in HUGE bulk amounts at the begining of the season that can be frozen. I take them out in small amounts and use them for when we have guests over, as gifts and when we need to take something to a holiday party. Saves time and money, buying in bulk and only once.

  193. To save money on Christmas wrapping paper, use old chip bags, cut down the middle, wash with soap and water. Flip them inside out and use the shiny side as wrapping paper.

  194. To save money on Christmas wrapping paper, use old chip bags, cut down the middle, wash with soap and water. Flip them inside out and use the shiny side as wrapping paper.

  195. Great site! I subscribed. One of my favorite money saving tips is to put all of the ‘free’ things to good use!! I make ‘gift baskets’ for friends and relatives comprised of all my free goodies that I get throughout the year! All of my friends can’t wait for my gift each year! I load up each basket with tons of toothpaste, shampoo, candy, and everything else you can imagine! It looks as though I spend hundreds… little do they know most of it is free!! I wrap it all nicely in a basket with a bow!

  196. Great site! I subscribed. One of my favorite money saving tips is to put all of the ‘free’ things to good use!! I make ‘gift baskets’ for friends and relatives comprised of all my free goodies that I get throughout the year! All of my friends can’t wait for my gift each year! I load up each basket with tons of toothpaste, shampoo, candy, and everything else you can imagine! It looks as though I spend hundreds… little do they know most of it is free!! I wrap it all nicely in a basket with a bow!

  197. My biggest money saving tip is this: subscribe to websites like this!! It is true – I have saved an insane amount of cash since I began reading all the money saving blogs out there! You guys not only show me how to save money on groceries but last week I actually had CVS pay me to shop there. Thank you so much for your site – I truly appreciate it 🙂

  198. My biggest money saving tip is this: subscribe to websites like this!! It is true – I have saved an insane amount of cash since I began reading all the money saving blogs out there! You guys not only show me how to save money on groceries but last week I actually had CVS pay me to shop there. Thank you so much for your site – I truly appreciate it 🙂

  199. Tweeted about the giveaway also – https://twitter.com/an_bhean/status/1034838303 – and on the money-saving side, I’ve got a freezer full of food that was marked down two to three days before “Sell By” date. If you have freezer space, this is a great way to stock up, particularly on meat! I have a lot of luck finding discounted pork tenderloins that are still good, just closing in on the date.

  200. Tweeted about the giveaway also – https://twitter.com/an_bhean/status/1034838303 – and on the money-saving side, I’ve got a freezer full of food that was marked down two to three days before “Sell By” date. If you have freezer space, this is a great way to stock up, particularly on meat! I have a lot of luck finding discounted pork tenderloins that are still good, just closing in on the date.

  201. A good way that we can limit our funds on gifts for family and friends is we get out the calendar and we jot down a night that’s good for both of us.

    I invite them over for a yummy dinner and dessert.

    There are 5 in my house here so cooking for a couple extra mouths really isn’t much considering we usually have leftovers that I freeze for quick lunches or dinners.

    We not only get to save some money on gifts, but in the end it’s priceless because we get to spend some quality time with them.

    To us, that’s the gift that keeps on giving.

  202. My best money saving tip: “super couponing”– combine a coupon with a sale or two. Get things free. This is what I do and it works well for me. I am able to share with my friends and family this way!

  203. I have started making homemade gifts for Christmas. I bake cookies and make homemade candies and put them in gift boxes from the dollar store. I also will give paintings and drawings as gifts. People appreciate the effort of a gift you have made yourself.

  204. I have started making homemade gifts for Christmas. I bake cookies and make homemade candies and put them in gift boxes from the dollar store. I also will give paintings and drawings as gifts. People appreciate the effort of a gift you have made yourself.

  205. Buy your Christmas decorations all throughout the year, not just after Thanksgiving. After Christmas is usually the best time and Estate Sales are great places to find stuff too.

  206. Buy your Christmas decorations all throughout the year, not just after Thanksgiving. After Christmas is usually the best time and Estate Sales are great places to find stuff too.

  207. My suggestion is to use EBAY! I am always selling things on Ebay as I clean out my son’s clothes, shoes, toys, etc. Even if you don’t think anyone will buy it…someone will! Even if it’s only for $5, that’s money to put toward the next size up or new birthday toys, etc. It’s much more convenient than planning a yard sale or the overhead of a consignment shop. It really helps with growing kiddos!

  208. My suggestion is to use EBAY! I am always selling things on Ebay as I clean out my son’s clothes, shoes, toys, etc. Even if you don’t think anyone will buy it…someone will! Even if it’s only for $5, that’s money to put toward the next size up or new birthday toys, etc. It’s much more convenient than planning a yard sale or the overhead of a consignment shop. It really helps with growing kiddos!

  209. To save money, and time… Just go to the Nickelodeon website (Nickelodeon.com), and click on the “shop” link, and connect to the hottest toys for your kids this Christmas, with savings up to 15% in their outlet shop!

  210. To save money, and time… Just go to the Nickelodeon website (Nickelodeon.com), and click on the “shop” link, and connect to the hottest toys for your kids this Christmas, with savings up to 15% in their outlet shop!

  211. Search the internet for coupons and free shipping codes. You’ll be amazed at what you can find to save you money.

  212. Search the internet for coupons and free shipping codes. You’ll be amazed at what you can find to save you money.

  213. A good way that we can limit our funds on gifts for family and friends is we get out the calendar and we jot down a night that’s good for both of us.

    I invite them over for a yummy dinner and dessert.

    There are 5 in my house here so cooking for a couple extra mouths really isn’t much considering we usually have leftovers that I freeze for quick lunches or dinners.

    We not only get to save some money on gifts, but in the end it’s priceless because we get to spend some quality time with them.

    To us, that’s the gift that keeps on giving.

  214. Instead of our usual gift exchanges with my sisters and their families, we are having a second hand gift exchange. All gifts must be from a garage sale, consignment store, or a hand me down. This is definitely saving us money and I am excited to see everyones great finds on Christmas morning.

  215. Instead of our usual gift exchanges with my sisters and their families, we are having a second hand gift exchange. All gifts must be from a garage sale, consignment store, or a hand me down. This is definitely saving us money and I am excited to see everyones great finds on Christmas morning.

  216. My best money saving tip: “super couponing”– combine a coupon with a sale or two. Get things free. This is what I do and it works well for me. I am able to share with my friends and family this way!

  217. According to the US Department of Energy, if all conventional incandescent Christmas lights in the country were replaced with LED lights this season, annual energy savings would total two billion kilowatt-hours—enough energy to power nearly 200,000 homes for an entire year.

    Also, never shop without a sale AND a coupon.

  218. According to the US Department of Energy, if all conventional incandescent Christmas lights in the country were replaced with LED lights this season, annual energy savings would total two billion kilowatt-hours—enough energy to power nearly 200,000 homes for an entire year.

    Also, never shop without a sale AND a coupon.

  219. Even though they are annoying, it really does pay to use the “frequent shopper” cards that every single store is now issuing. I’ve had great luck, especially with grocery stores sending extra and targeted coupons based on items I buy frequently. Now if I could just find a discount for a larger purse to hold all the cards . . . 🙂

  220. Even though they are annoying, it really does pay to use the “frequent shopper” cards that every single store is now issuing. I’ve had great luck, especially with grocery stores sending extra and targeted coupons based on items I buy frequently. Now if I could just find a discount for a larger purse to hold all the cards . . . 🙂

  221. I have a few money-saving tips for the holidays:

    1. Buy anything you can the week after Christmas, when it’s up to 90 percent off–not only decorations for your own home but also wrapping items and gifts for others–to use for next Christmas.

    2. Look for deals in which you get something free–either something you can use or give as a gift (last year, I bought a certain number of $50 AmEx gift cards and received a $25 “electronics” gift card free).

    3. Speaking of gift cards, only buy those with no fees or no-fee specials (AmEx’s gift card fees are pretty steep so I usually won’t buy them, but right now they have a special with no fees)! Or buy all your gift cards at one store (such as WalMart, which has a variety of cards to select from), and save a lot of time and gas!

    4. Buy items in bulk or at stores that have smaller items for less (or buy so many and get so many free), and make up gift baskets with candy, lotion, soap, candles, etc.!

    Thanks to you and Nickelodeon for such a great contest, and Happy Holidays to all!

    cherise420[at]yahoo[dot]com

  222. I have a few money-saving tips for the holidays:

    1. Buy anything you can the week after Christmas, when it’s up to 90 percent off–not only decorations for your own home but also wrapping items and gifts for others–to use for next Christmas.

    2. Look for deals in which you get something free–either something you can use or give as a gift (last year, I bought a certain number of $50 AmEx gift cards and received a $25 “electronics” gift card free).

    3. Speaking of gift cards, only buy those with no fees or no-fee specials (AmEx’s gift card fees are pretty steep so I usually won’t buy them, but right now they have a special with no fees)! Or buy all your gift cards at one store (such as WalMart, which has a variety of cards to select from), and save a lot of time and gas!

    4. Buy items in bulk or at stores that have smaller items for less (or buy so many and get so many free), and make up gift baskets with candy, lotion, soap, candles, etc.!

    Thanks to you and Nickelodeon for such a great contest, and Happy Holidays to all!

    cherise420[at]yahoo[dot]com

  223. My money saving tip is for gifts for teachers and friends. I always try and find cute containers or bags on clearance throughout the year. Then I find items to fill up the containers. I try to use a theme on each gift, such as Pasta Night (pasta, sauce, breadsticks) or Warm and Cozy (hot chocolate, marshmallows, cookies). These make for inexpensive yet heart-felt gifts!

  224. My money saving tip is for gifts for teachers and friends. I always try and find cute containers or bags on clearance throughout the year. Then I find items to fill up the containers. I try to use a theme on each gift, such as Pasta Night (pasta, sauce, breadsticks) or Warm and Cozy (hot chocolate, marshmallows, cookies). These make for inexpensive yet heart-felt gifts!

  225. Drive the speed limit!! By leaving on time and not being in a hurry, you can save a lot in gas expense. You might even find that your traffic lights are timed for the posted limit and you won’t be wasting gas sitting at the lights.

  226. Drive the speed limit!! By leaving on time and not being in a hurry, you can save a lot in gas expense. You might even find that your traffic lights are timed for the posted limit and you won’t be wasting gas sitting at the lights.

  227. I keep all of the appliances unplugged unless I am using them, except for the items that need to be plugged in at all times in order to operate properly. It all adds up and saves energy.

  228. I keep all of the appliances unplugged unless I am using them, except for the items that need to be plugged in at all times in order to operate properly. It all adds up and saves energy.

  229. The dollar stores are great places to stock up on stocking stuffers. They also usually have neat things for crafts, babies, and toddlers.

  230. The dollar stores are great places to stock up on stocking stuffers. They also usually have neat things for crafts, babies, and toddlers.

  231. Recycle your Christmas ornaments within your family. Maybe your mom has something she hasn’t used in a while that you would really like to have or vise versa.

  232. Recycle your Christmas ornaments within your family. Maybe your mom has something she hasn’t used in a while that you would really like to have or vise versa.

  233. My best money saving tip is to use reward programs from your credit card company to pay for Christmas presents. Every 2 years we cash in our reward points and it’s usually enough to pay for the majority of our gifts. This year we got $600 in Amazon and Target gift cards. It’s a good thing too as money is super tight this year. Just make sure to not pay late and pay your bill in full each month or it isn’t really free money.

  234. My best money saving tip is to use reward programs from your credit card company to pay for Christmas presents. Every 2 years we cash in our reward points and it’s usually enough to pay for the majority of our gifts. This year we got $600 in Amazon and Target gift cards. It’s a good thing too as money is super tight this year. Just make sure to not pay late and pay your bill in full each month or it isn’t really free money.

  235. there is a coupon for almost everything you buy, what a savings to use them. iF you have a store in your area that doubles coupons , you can save a lot of money doing this, even get somethings free.

  236. there is a coupon for almost everything you buy, what a savings to use them. iF you have a store in your area that doubles coupons , you can save a lot of money doing this, even get somethings free.

  237. Cut down your cable to the most basic package and get a one at a time movie rental subscription. Makes so much sense to pick the stuff you really want to watch.

  238. Cut down your cable to the most basic package and get a one at a time movie rental subscription. Makes so much sense to pick the stuff you really want to watch.

  239. Shop all year round for holiday and birthday presents. When you have a little extra money or see something on clearance pick it up and hide it away! Sometimes things are hidden away so long I pull out the stuff from my hiding spot and its almost like christmas for myself seeing what i have hidden in there

  240. Shop all year round for holiday and birthday presents. When you have a little extra money or see something on clearance pick it up and hide it away! Sometimes things are hidden away so long I pull out the stuff from my hiding spot and its almost like christmas for myself seeing what i have hidden in there

  241. I’m a single mom of 4, so saving money is mandatory! Freezer cooking saves the most money (and time) for us. Not only is it very frugal, but there is always at least a meal ‘starter’ in the freezer, thus ending last minute takeout for lack of ingredients!

    You don’t have to start with elaborate menus and load the freezer with recipes your family may or may not eat. It can be as simple as keeping prebrowned beef or precooked chopped chicken in zipper bags in the frezer. These alone are the starter for 1000’s of meals, using your own recipes you know to be loved by your family. It’s a huge timesaver to have this step already done for you at the end of a long day and gets a meal on the table very quickly!

    All the information you need to get started freezer cooking is available at the library or internet for free! Merry Christmas!

  242. I’m a single mom of 4, so saving money is mandatory! Freezer cooking saves the most money (and time) for us. Not only is it very frugal, but there is always at least a meal ‘starter’ in the freezer, thus ending last minute takeout for lack of ingredients!

    You don’t have to start with elaborate menus and load the freezer with recipes your family may or may not eat. It can be as simple as keeping prebrowned beef or precooked chopped chicken in zipper bags in the frezer. These alone are the starter for 1000’s of meals, using your own recipes you know to be loved by your family. It’s a huge timesaver to have this step already done for you at the end of a long day and gets a meal on the table very quickly!

    All the information you need to get started freezer cooking is available at the library or internet for free! Merry Christmas!

  243. I’ve been trying to save money
    to buy something for my honey.
    But the money seems to dissapear
    whenever my hand and card get near.
    So I have to put that card away
    and just use cash when I pay.
    So then when my money’s gone
    I know it’s time to go back home.

  244. I’ve been trying to save money
    to buy something for my honey.
    But the money seems to dissapear
    whenever my hand and card get near.
    So I have to put that card away
    and just use cash when I pay.
    So then when my money’s gone
    I know it’s time to go back home.

  245. I subbed! I forget to leave my email on my tip. kaytewatts AT aol DOT com (I think I will probably be the only Kayte leaving a tip)

  246. I subbed! I forget to leave my email on my tip. kaytewatts AT aol DOT com (I think I will probably be the only Kayte leaving a tip)

  247. We use an artificial tree — I can’t stand the thought of killing a beautiful tree year after year plus it save us a lot of money over our lifetime. We also use LED lights which save an awesome amount of energy/money.

  248. We use an artificial tree — I can’t stand the thought of killing a beautiful tree year after year plus it save us a lot of money over our lifetime. We also use LED lights which save an awesome amount of energy/money.

  249. I look for free sample items posted on the internet. And stock up on non-perishable items in the buy 1 get 1 free specials.

  250. I look for free sample items posted on the internet. And stock up on non-perishable items in the buy 1 get 1 free specials.

  251. We try to save money by shopping at thrift stores. It is amazing the different clothes and items that can be found at a small fraction of its original price. Sometimes the brands and quality are much greater than I would ever be able to afford!!
    cjnedrow@gmail.com

  252. We try to save money by shopping at thrift stores. It is amazing the different clothes and items that can be found at a small fraction of its original price. Sometimes the brands and quality are much greater than I would ever be able to afford!!
    cjnedrow@gmail.com

  253. I always do my holiday shopping with eBates.com. This site links to over 900 merchants and offers cash back for my purchases. Every few months I receive a check! Around the holidays most stores offer free shipping and some don’t charge tax! Plus, I save time, gas, and the headache of dealing with mall parking and long lines. I also refer my friends and family to help them save money- and by doing so, eBates gives a credit to both of us! Can’t beat that!

  254. I always do my holiday shopping with eBates.com. This site links to over 900 merchants and offers cash back for my purchases. Every few months I receive a check! Around the holidays most stores offer free shipping and some don’t charge tax! Plus, I save time, gas, and the headache of dealing with mall parking and long lines. I also refer my friends and family to help them save money- and by doing so, eBates gives a credit to both of us! Can’t beat that!

  255. do a google search for “coupons off” – lots of sites have coupons for percentages off or free shipping that won’t be listed on the site itself – check out several different sites.

  256. do a google search for “coupons off” – lots of sites have coupons for percentages off or free shipping that won’t be listed on the site itself – check out several different sites.

  257. almost everything you buy has a coupon, use them where they double coupon,never pay full price , watch sales and match coupons to things you want to buy.

  258. almost everything you buy has a coupon, use them where they double coupon,never pay full price , watch sales and match coupons to things you want to buy.

  259. Buy in bulk at Sam’s or walmart and split up into smaller gifts. For example a large jar of hot chocolate put into smaller jelly jars and wrap with last years ribbon and raffia and pair with homemade cookies.

  260. Buy in bulk at Sam’s or walmart and split up into smaller gifts. For example a large jar of hot chocolate put into smaller jelly jars and wrap with last years ribbon and raffia and pair with homemade cookies.

  261. We try to save money by keeping a strict budget. We set aside so much out of each months income for extras and to save for emergencies and try not to go beyond our budget unless necessary!
    cjnedrow@gmail.com

  262. We try to save money by keeping a strict budget. We set aside so much out of each months income for extras and to save for emergencies and try not to go beyond our budget unless necessary!
    cjnedrow@gmail.com

  263. I wrote a post on my blog. Tip: I make my own household cleaners including laundry and dishwasher detergents.grogereva2(at)aol(dot)com. Thanks for the giveaway!

  264. Tip: To save money I grow my own vegetables,culinary, and medicinal herbs (I make my own herbal remedies). grogereva2(at)aol(dot)com

  265. Turn old happy meal toys, especially figurines, into ornaments by screwing a tiny eye hook to the top & tying some ribbon through the eye to let it hang. We did this when we had a bunch of Disney characters from old happy meals. The kids still love them, years later! Email the family newsletter or Christmas card-save on stamps & cost of printing/making the cards. Cut snowflakes out of paper, laminate them, & hang them on the tree or decorate the windows with them.
    merrileemacqueen@hotmail.com

  266. Turn old happy meal toys, especially figurines, into ornaments by screwing a tiny eye hook to the top & tying some ribbon through the eye to let it hang. We did this when we had a bunch of Disney characters from old happy meals. The kids still love them, years later! Email the family newsletter or Christmas card-save on stamps & cost of printing/making the cards. Cut snowflakes out of paper, laminate them, & hang them on the tree or decorate the windows with them.
    merrileemacqueen@hotmail.com

  267. We have saved a lot of money this year in our Christmas gift giving by winning some nice items. It takes time to enter the contests but it has really been financially beneficial!
    cjnedrow@gmail.com

  268. We have saved a lot of money this year in our Christmas gift giving by winning some nice items. It takes time to enter the contests but it has really been financially beneficial!
    cjnedrow@gmail.com

  269. My best money saving tip is to take only cash to the grocery store along with a list that you have gotten from your menu for 1 or 2 weeks. If you stick to only that list and use cash (leave the debit card and checkbook home), you will save money because you won’t buy junk or unnecessary items.

  270. My best money saving tip is to take only cash to the grocery store along with a list that you have gotten from your menu for 1 or 2 weeks. If you stick to only that list and use cash (leave the debit card and checkbook home), you will save money because you won’t buy junk or unnecessary items.

  271. I wrote a post on my blog. Tip: I make my own household cleaners including laundry and dishwasher detergents.grogereva2(at)aol(dot)com. Thanks for the giveaway!

  272. Tip: To save money I grow my own vegetables,culinary, and medicinal herbs (I make my own herbal remedies). grogereva2(at)aol(dot)com

  273. I subscribed. The thing that helps us the most in keeping to our budget, it is plan ahead for any foreseeable or even possible expenses and plug it into our budget. We use YNAB which REALLY helps. If the expense is large enough that we need to save for it (anything over $1000 definitely and sometimes even smaller amounts of there are several expenses in a given month!), I start shifting any money I can find toward it…even little bits.. until we have enough.

  274. I subscribed. The thing that helps us the most in keeping to our budget, it is plan ahead for any foreseeable or even possible expenses and plug it into our budget. We use YNAB which REALLY helps. If the expense is large enough that we need to save for it (anything over $1000 definitely and sometimes even smaller amounts of there are several expenses in a given month!), I start shifting any money I can find toward it…even little bits.. until we have enough.

  275. I started a coupon trade with a few coworkers. We trade the coupons that we don’t use. Once a month I mail all the unused coupons to the military. (They can use expired coupons).

  276. I started a coupon trade with a few coworkers. We trade the coupons that we don’t use. Once a month I mail all the unused coupons to the military. (They can use expired coupons).

  277. I try to find most of my gifts throughout the year by watching for great sales and clearance items. You would be surprised by how much can accumulate! Thanks!

  278. I try to find most of my gifts throughout the year by watching for great sales and clearance items. You would be surprised by how much can accumulate! Thanks!

  279. We make most decorations for the holidays. Making your own wreaths really adds a personal touch and can be changed out every Christmas which brings in new colors each year.

  280. We make most decorations for the holidays. Making your own wreaths really adds a personal touch and can be changed out every Christmas which brings in new colors each year.

  281. I purchase store brand products whenever possible. There are a few things I won’t compromise on, but most items are just as good and are even produced in the same factory as the name brand. As long as it works and the quality is the same, what does it matter who makes it?

  282. I purchase store brand products whenever possible. There are a few things I won’t compromise on, but most items are just as good and are even produced in the same factory as the name brand. As long as it works and the quality is the same, what does it matter who makes it?

  283. I love to shop at estate sales to find unique one-of-a-kind gifts at wonderful prices! This weekend I scored a beautiful gold plated mirror for the vanity with one side magnifying and it is so beautiful. We paid $8 and it has birds and flowers and is 24 K gold plated and made by a company with a name imprinted on it way back in the 1950s. What woman wouldn’t want this for a gift? Even my husband loves it!

  284. I love to shop at estate sales to find unique one-of-a-kind gifts at wonderful prices! This weekend I scored a beautiful gold plated mirror for the vanity with one side magnifying and it is so beautiful. We paid $8 and it has birds and flowers and is 24 K gold plated and made by a company with a name imprinted on it way back in the 1950s. What woman wouldn’t want this for a gift? Even my husband loves it!

  285. For teachers gifts and extended family I bought plastic Christmas jars at the $1 store and matching hang tags. We are baking mini sugar cookies and packaging them in the jars with the tags and a ribbon. These make adorable, inexpensive gifts and provide a fun family activity.

  286. For teachers gifts and extended family I bought plastic Christmas jars at the $1 store and matching hang tags. We are baking mini sugar cookies and packaging them in the jars with the tags and a ribbon. These make adorable, inexpensive gifts and provide a fun family activity.

  287. My money-saving tip is to decorate with fresh greenery. I went to our local petting zoo where they sell Christmas trees and purchased two bundles of greenery for $12. I cut them and placed them ALL over my house–on tabletops, shelves, the mantle, and even in transom windows. They look and smell beautiful for SO little money. Plus, the money I spent at the petting zoo was a donation to a good cause.

  288. My money-saving tip is to decorate with fresh greenery. I went to our local petting zoo where they sell Christmas trees and purchased two bundles of greenery for $12. I cut them and placed them ALL over my house–on tabletops, shelves, the mantle, and even in transom windows. They look and smell beautiful for SO little money. Plus, the money I spent at the petting zoo was a donation to a good cause.

  289. I save money year round by going to the Super Cuts Training Studio for my family’s haircuts and for my hair colors!!
    Thanks
    Amiee

  290. I save money year round by going to the Super Cuts Training Studio for my family’s haircuts and for my hair colors!!
    Thanks
    Amiee

  291. Yesterday they had green giant veggies at Crest for 2/$1 which is a great price if you have coupons for them it would be even better!

  292. At the holidays, we all want to give to those that need it most – but often that conflicts with the already tight budget for our own family gifts, etc.

    This year my boys and I (my husband is currently deployed) are saving money by eating soup. I have made a number of different kinds of soup that usually provide up to three meals for us. We usually eat it the night I make it and then I freeze the other portions (I even used leftover Thanksgiving turkey for one of them!) So, whenever I pull out a soup for dinner we put $5 in a jar to save for a Charity of our choice. My kids are making the connection of ’sacrificing’ in order to bless others…

    And in the meantime, I have learned some really great soup recipes! =)

  293. At the holidays, we all want to give to those that need it most – but often that conflicts with the already tight budget for our own family gifts, etc.

    This year my boys and I (my husband is currently deployed) are saving money by eating soup. I have made a number of different kinds of soup that usually provide up to three meals for us. We usually eat it the night I make it and then I freeze the other portions (I even used leftover Thanksgiving turkey for one of them!) So, whenever I pull out a soup for dinner we put $5 in a jar to save for a Charity of our choice. My kids are making the connection of ’sacrificing’ in order to bless others…

    And in the meantime, I have learned some really great soup recipes! =)

  294. I’m subscribed!

    And my tip is

    1) take your spare change from the car ash tray/cupholders, bottoms of handbags, and coat pockets to the bank and run it through one of those coin counter machines. It gives you a voucher that you can use for cash. I then deposit that cash immediately back into your bank account. It is pretty shocking how much money you can find in “spare change”… First time I did this was over $100 dollars (well over).

    hellokittiemama at gmail dot com

  295. I’m subscribed!

    And my tip is

    1) take your spare change from the car ash tray/cupholders, bottoms of handbags, and coat pockets to the bank and run it through one of those coin counter machines. It gives you a voucher that you can use for cash. I then deposit that cash immediately back into your bank account. It is pretty shocking how much money you can find in “spare change”… First time I did this was over $100 dollars (well over).

    hellokittiemama at gmail dot com

  296. Yesterday they had green giant veggies at Crest for 2/$1 which is a great price if you have coupons for them it would be even better!

  297. If you live near a college, you might be able to find a discarded tree, wreath, and/or other decorations in mid-December after the students have finished their exams and left for home. Another way to recycle is to make edible decorations from foods such as kale and apples.

    If you aren’t able to get a recycled tree you might want to wait until very shortly before Christmas and negotiate for price discounts on perishable decorations such as a tree.

  298. If you live near a college, you might be able to find a discarded tree, wreath, and/or other decorations in mid-December after the students have finished their exams and left for home. Another way to recycle is to make edible decorations from foods such as kale and apples.

    If you aren’t able to get a recycled tree you might want to wait until very shortly before Christmas and negotiate for price discounts on perishable decorations such as a tree.

  299. Instead of buying gifts, I hand-make gifts for my friends and family with their special needs or wants in mind. For example, I am making my sister and her hubby fleece throws because their new home gets cold at night. This ends up saving me a lot of money, plus it is something from the heart that no one else will have.

  300. Instead of buying gifts, I hand-make gifts for my friends and family with their special needs or wants in mind. For example, I am making my sister and her hubby fleece throws because their new home gets cold at night. This ends up saving me a lot of money, plus it is something from the heart that no one else will have.

  301. I like to set a grocery/spending budget each week and then try to spend less. Any leftover money is used towards our gift or vacation fund!

  302. I like to set a grocery/spending budget each week and then try to spend less. Any leftover money is used towards our gift or vacation fund!

  303. Definitely using my hands to make goodies to share with everyone. Especially green tomato blueberry jam. It is a great use for the tomatotes in my garden that didn’t ripen and it still tastes wonderful.

  304. the way that I save money is I sign up for everything: Vocal Point, BzzAgent, etc. – I do get junk mail but I also get coupons & samples in the mail alot! I also make my own gifts and Christmas cards since I am a papercrafter.

    thanks CQ for your contest!!!

  305. the way that I save money is I sign up for everything: Vocal Point, BzzAgent, etc. – I do get junk mail but I also get coupons & samples in the mail alot! I also make my own gifts and Christmas cards since I am a papercrafter.

    thanks CQ for your contest!!!

  306. Making a family and friends cookbook. I did this about four years ago and it was a BIG hit and only ended up costing about 20.00 per book…not bad folks !!
    I called or emailed family members and our closiest friends. Told them I was making a cookbook, wanted thier best recipes…two or three each person. I gave them a deadline for the recipes to be turned in and then I got busy making the books…myself. I typed each recipe, put a related food picture on each page, printed the pages, put them in sleeve covers and put the pages into a 3-ring binder with a beautiful coverpage. These were the best gift I ever gave…everyone loved them, and it’s something that will be in the family forever !!

    Thank you and Merry Christmas !!
    tholix at pineland dot net

  307. Making a family and friends cookbook. I did this about four years ago and it was a BIG hit and only ended up costing about 20.00 per book…not bad folks !!
    I called or emailed family members and our closiest friends. Told them I was making a cookbook, wanted thier best recipes…two or three each person. I gave them a deadline for the recipes to be turned in and then I got busy making the books…myself. I typed each recipe, put a related food picture on each page, printed the pages, put them in sleeve covers and put the pages into a 3-ring binder with a beautiful coverpage. These were the best gift I ever gave…everyone loved them, and it’s something that will be in the family forever !!

    Thank you and Merry Christmas !!
    tholix at pineland dot net

  308. Definitely using my hands to make goodies to share with everyone. Especially green tomato blueberry jam. It is a great use for the tomatotes in my garden that didn’t ripen and it still tastes wonderful.

  309. I bring coupons with me everywhere and see if I can pair them with clearance items – I’ve scored razors at Target for .90!

  310. I bring coupons with me everywhere and see if I can pair them with clearance items – I’ve scored razors at Target for .90!

  311. We are huge on cutting coupons. For everything, not only groceries! We use them for haircuts, car oil changes and repair, dry cleaning, etc. On everything that we possibly can we try to use coupons!
    cjnedrow@gmail.com

  312. We are huge on cutting coupons. For everything, not only groceries! We use them for haircuts, car oil changes and repair, dry cleaning, etc. On everything that we possibly can we try to use coupons!
    cjnedrow@gmail.com

  313. Just because you have a coupon does not mean you have to buy it. There are MANY coupons that come out for things we don’t use and probably wont ever. We try to live simply, no neet to spend money on something that will just add clutter because we had a coupon for it.

  314. Just because you have a coupon does not mean you have to buy it. There are MANY coupons that come out for things we don’t use and probably wont ever. We try to live simply, no neet to spend money on something that will just add clutter because we had a coupon for it.

  315. Bonus Entry:
    I shop all the clearance racks at the stores and find great deals!! Especially, Target I love the end cap clearance!

  316. Bonus Entry:
    I shop all the clearance racks at the stores and find great deals!! Especially, Target I love the end cap clearance!

  317. Bonus Entry:
    I shop all the clearance racks at the stores and find great deals!! Especially, Target I love the end cap clearance! Use coupons on the clearance stuff and get it really cheap!

  318. Bonus Entry:
    I shop all the clearance racks at the stores and find great deals!! Especially, Target I love the end cap clearance! Use coupons on the clearance stuff and get it really cheap!

  319. My best money saving tip for the holidays is this: When exchanging gifts with the extended family, set a limit and exchange names. This way you’re only buying for one person. Another fun twist is to make rules, for example, the gift you buy has to start with the first letter of your name or the person you are buying for.

  320. My best money saving tip for the holidays is this: When exchanging gifts with the extended family, set a limit and exchange names. This way you’re only buying for one person. Another fun twist is to make rules, for example, the gift you buy has to start with the first letter of your name or the person you are buying for.

  321. We try to save money by getting things on sale throughout the year. We also have given pictures as gifts, we just buy a frame. My husband is a musician so he has recorded some of his music himself and we have given that as gifts. I have made jewlery, and candies…..we have alot of people to buy for on a small budget, so it helps to make us creative with our gifts:) This year I have purchased some items on Etsy and that has been really helpful in saving money and finding cute unique things.
    ggp42304(at)gmail(dotcom)

  322. We try to save money by getting things on sale throughout the year. We also have given pictures as gifts, we just buy a frame. My husband is a musician so he has recorded some of his music himself and we have given that as gifts. I have made jewlery, and candies…..we have alot of people to buy for on a small budget, so it helps to make us creative with our gifts:) This year I have purchased some items on Etsy and that has been really helpful in saving money and finding cute unique things.
    ggp42304(at)gmail(dotcom)

  323. I love to entertain family and friends at the Holidays, so our house is generally a rotating party for about five weeks. That can get expensive! My best entertaining tip for setting an impressive spread on a budget is to have a one or two “highlight” dishes, surrounded by less expensive food to fill hungry tummies. For example, for a “highlight” I might do a couple of exotic cheeses, brie baked in puff pastry, or phyllo dough triangles stuffed with something rich and decadent. But I fill in with fresh veggies and canned black olives with ranch dip, hummus, and crostini (baguettes thinly sliced and toasted in the oven). Bread, veggies, potatos, and eggs are all inexpensive and filling. With one great dish that leaves people talking, combined with attractive presentation and ambiance, and even a budget queen can entertain like royalty.

  324. I love to entertain family and friends at the Holidays, so our house is generally a rotating party for about five weeks. That can get expensive! My best entertaining tip for setting an impressive spread on a budget is to have a one or two “highlight” dishes, surrounded by less expensive food to fill hungry tummies. For example, for a “highlight” I might do a couple of exotic cheeses, brie baked in puff pastry, or phyllo dough triangles stuffed with something rich and decadent. But I fill in with fresh veggies and canned black olives with ranch dip, hummus, and crostini (baguettes thinly sliced and toasted in the oven). Bread, veggies, potatos, and eggs are all inexpensive and filling. With one great dish that leaves people talking, combined with attractive presentation and ambiance, and even a budget queen can entertain like royalty.

  325. ok…..here are a few tips that have really helped me out this year….i am a poor college student.

    1. pack your lunch

    2. walk when u can….who dosen’t want smaller thighs,eh?

    3. Cut coupons!! lots of people my age don’t do this, but if u use coupons…u could buy more or donate and help a few others

    4. search oklahoma radio stations, look for koma 92.5fm and magic 104.1fm websites, they are having a 1/2 off holiday guide!!! Great resource for gifts. Saved me BIG time!

    5. Subscribe to the website of your favorite brands/stores….just doing this, you will be sent a few deals. I love NEW YORK & CO. !

    -bluespider

    slushie17@yahoo.com

  326. ok…..here are a few tips that have really helped me out this year….i am a poor college student.

    1. pack your lunch

    2. walk when u can….who dosen’t want smaller thighs,eh?

    3. Cut coupons!! lots of people my age don’t do this, but if u use coupons…u could buy more or donate and help a few others

    4. search oklahoma radio stations, look for koma 92.5fm and magic 104.1fm websites, they are having a 1/2 off holiday guide!!! Great resource for gifts. Saved me BIG time!

    5. Subscribe to the website of your favorite brands/stores….just doing this, you will be sent a few deals. I love NEW YORK & CO. !

    -bluespider

    slushie17@yahoo.com

  327. I just take my coupons with me everywhere and always look online for more to print. I always check the clearance racks just to see if the things I need or use could be there.

  328. To save money during the holidays, a few select friends and I agree to ‘celebrate’ Christmas during another random month throughout the year. Think, Christmas in July, only pick your own month! This way we still have fun picking and receiving gifts later on, but that’s one less on our list to stress about right now!

  329. I just take my coupons with me everywhere and always look online for more to print. I always check the clearance racks just to see if the things I need or use could be there.

  330. To save money during the holidays, a few select friends and I agree to ‘celebrate’ Christmas during another random month throughout the year. Think, Christmas in July, only pick your own month! This way we still have fun picking and receiving gifts later on, but that’s one less on our list to stress about right now!

  331. Ortega
    jjort4@sbcglobal.net

    I love to do the comp. ads at walmart so I don’t have to go to each store having the “good” deal. It takes more time, but saving money is soooo worth it. My coupons stay with me all the time. I get a lot of info and tips from this site.

    I am also subscribed to the blog. This site ahs changed soooo much in the last 4 or 5 years. It has so many more members and it is doing GREAT!!!!

  332. We bring out lunch to work- we eat at home- I cut 5 papers worth of coupons every Sun. I trade coupons to get the most out of the ones we use and the ones we dont.

    My money saving tip: Be consistent! No need to spend retail you are able to save money by shopping sales and clipping coupons! We use Walmart every Sunday because we get the lowest prices and they have the best selection

  333. We bring out lunch to work- we eat at home- I cut 5 papers worth of coupons every Sun. I trade coupons to get the most out of the ones we use and the ones we dont.

    My money saving tip: Be consistent! No need to spend retail you are able to save money by shopping sales and clipping coupons! We use Walmart every Sunday because we get the lowest prices and they have the best selection

  334. We bring out lunch to work- we eat at home I cut 5 papers worth of coupons every Sun. I trade coupons to get the most out of the ones we use and the ones we dont.

    My money saving tip: Be consistent! No need to spend retail you are able to save money by shopping sales and clipping coupons! We use Walmart every Sunday because we get the lowest prices and they have the best selection

  335. We bring out lunch to work- we eat at home I cut 5 papers worth of coupons every Sun. I trade coupons to get the most out of the ones we use and the ones we dont.

    My money saving tip: Be consistent! No need to spend retail you are able to save money by shopping sales and clipping coupons! We use Walmart every Sunday because we get the lowest prices and they have the best selection

  336. Ortega
    jjort4@sbcglobal.net

    I love to do the comp. ads at walmart so I don’t have to go to each store having the “good” deal. It takes more time, but saving money is soooo worth it. My coupons stay with me all the time. I get a lot of info and tips from this site.

    I am also subscribed to the blog. This site ahs changed soooo much in the last 4 or 5 years. It has so many more members and it is doing GREAT!!!!

  337. my best holiday money saving tip is to give crafted or baked items. These tend to cost less, but definatly have heart and soul. People seem to be very appreciative of these gifts made with love and it sure helps my pocketbook!

  338. my best holiday money saving tip is to give crafted or baked items. These tend to cost less, but definatly have heart and soul. People seem to be very appreciative of these gifts made with love and it sure helps my pocketbook!

  339. I subcribe already. My money saving tip is to always shpp clearance merchandise first. You never know what you will find. The important thing is to always have your coupons with you. Then if you can match up the clearance merchandise with your coupons it’s a major score! 🙂 Merry Christmas!

  340. I subcribe already. My money saving tip is to always shpp clearance merchandise first. You never know what you will find. The important thing is to always have your coupons with you. Then if you can match up the clearance merchandise with your coupons it’s a major score! 🙂 Merry Christmas!

  341. I love to shop all of the after christmas sales. I stock up on all the great deals and put everything away in storage. It is so fun getting everything out the next year, becuase you forget what you have bought after a year. It is really fun when you look at all of your great gifts saying “I can’t believe I only paid $$$$ for this.

  342. I love to shop all of the after christmas sales. I stock up on all the great deals and put everything away in storage. It is so fun getting everything out the next year, becuase you forget what you have bought after a year. It is really fun when you look at all of your great gifts saying “I can’t believe I only paid $$$$ for this.

  343. Recently, I began to make my own baby wipes, using good paper towel, baby oil, baby shampoo, and boiled water. I get my paper towel on sale with coupons, and they work fabulous! I was paying so much for quality baby wipes.

  344. Recently, I began to make my own baby wipes, using good paper towel, baby oil, baby shampoo, and boiled water. I get my paper towel on sale with coupons, and they work fabulous! I was paying so much for quality baby wipes.

  345. This year we splurged again and bought a Christmas tree, not a success in my mission towards frugality. However, when we arrived at the tree lot I noticed a sign above a stack of boughs that said “Free.” My favorite! So, I have Christmas boughs decorating our house for free. The tip? Check your local Christmas tree lot for free boughs.

  346. This year we splurged again and bought a Christmas tree, not a success in my mission towards frugality. However, when we arrived at the tree lot I noticed a sign above a stack of boughs that said “Free.” My favorite! So, I have Christmas boughs decorating our house for free. The tip? Check your local Christmas tree lot for free boughs.

  347. Our holiday saving tip is, “Get back to basics.” We are eliminating exchanging gifts with people outside our circle — or should I say, dot — of friends and relatives. We have “trimmed” our holiday decorating budget as well — less lights equals less electricity. We are also spiritually getting back to basics by remembering what Christmas really means.
    Thanks for the opp and happy holidays.

  348. Our holiday saving tip is, “Get back to basics.” We are eliminating exchanging gifts with people outside our circle — or should I say, dot — of friends and relatives. We have “trimmed” our holiday decorating budget as well — less lights equals less electricity. We are also spiritually getting back to basics by remembering what Christmas really means.
    Thanks for the opp and happy holidays.

  349. Over the years I have probably saved hundreds of dollars by using my newspapers and junk mail for mulch. You can shred it or just lay down sheets of newsprint like a weed barrier. Sprinkle the paper with water to hold it in place then cover with a thin layer of wood chips, pine straw or other decorative mulch. Your weeds are smothered and no one will ever know that you are recycling right there in your own garden. Plus, earthworms love newsprint so it encourages them to come help you enrich your soil. (Be sure and shred any junk mail like credit card offers that could be used to steal your identity.)

  350. Over the years I have probably saved hundreds of dollars by using my newspapers and junk mail for mulch. You can shred it or just lay down sheets of newsprint like a weed barrier. Sprinkle the paper with water to hold it in place then cover with a thin layer of wood chips, pine straw or other decorative mulch. Your weeds are smothered and no one will ever know that you are recycling right there in your own garden. Plus, earthworms love newsprint so it encourages them to come help you enrich your soil. (Be sure and shred any junk mail like credit card offers that could be used to steal your identity.)

  351. Shop on black friday! Get your newspaper on Thanksgiving and go through it with the family. Ask your family to write their name down for every item they want on their wish list out of the ads. Their are so many sales on black friday, this alone will save you a fortune.

  352. I’VE BEEN RIDING MY BIKE FOR SHORT TRIPS & WALKING MY LITTLE GIRL TO THE BUS STOP TO SAVE GAS MONEY TO BUY EXTRA GIFTS…

  353. I’VE BEEN RIDING MY BIKE FOR SHORT TRIPS & WALKING MY LITTLE GIRL TO THE BUS STOP TO SAVE GAS MONEY TO BUY EXTRA GIFTS…

  354. Shop on black friday! Get your newspaper on Thanksgiving and go through it with the family. Ask your family to write their name down for every item they want on their wish list out of the ads. Their are so many sales on black friday, this alone will save you a fortune.

  355. money saving tip: unplug ALL computers, small appliances when not in use….not just at night but anytime your not using your microwave, toaster oven, fan etc. unplug it. Even though it’s not turned on, if it’s plugged in it’s using electricity….you can save money on your electric bill. I unplug everything in my grandkid’s room when they aren’t at my house…their computer, tv etc. I have saved noticable amounts on my electric bill.

  356. money saving tip: unplug ALL computers, small appliances when not in use….not just at night but anytime your not using your microwave, toaster oven, fan etc. unplug it. Even though it’s not turned on, if it’s plugged in it’s using electricity….you can save money on your electric bill. I unplug everything in my grandkid’s room when they aren’t at my house…their computer, tv etc. I have saved noticable amounts on my electric bill.

  357. My tip is what were doing this year instead of buying everyone on our list a expensive gifts.

    Have a family get together/present party instead of buying each individual gifts. Each adult person will spend $10 on 2 gifts one $5 gift suitable for a child and one $5 gift suitable for an adult. Following the family dinner we will all play games and let everyone reach into the special Santa sack (one adult one child) and pull out their gift. 🙂

    This will be saving all the family money this year plus I think it will help in putting family sharing back into the Holiday. We will enjoy a good meal good company and lots of fun all for a little price. 🙂

    🙂 Thank you for the wonderful giveaway! 🙂

  358. My tip is what were doing this year instead of buying everyone on our list a expensive gifts.

    Have a family get together/present party instead of buying each individual gifts. Each adult person will spend $10 on 2 gifts one $5 gift suitable for a child and one $5 gift suitable for an adult. Following the family dinner we will all play games and let everyone reach into the special Santa sack (one adult one child) and pull out their gift. 🙂

    This will be saving all the family money this year plus I think it will help in putting family sharing back into the Holiday. We will enjoy a good meal good company and lots of fun all for a little price. 🙂

    🙂 Thank you for the wonderful giveaway! 🙂

  359. shop using coupons espc. at stores like Target and Walgreens wher they let you use a store coupon and a manufacturers coupon on each item you purchase. If there is a rebate it saves even more and sometimes the items are free.

  360. shop using coupons espc. at stores like Target and Walgreens wher they let you use a store coupon and a manufacturers coupon on each item you purchase. If there is a rebate it saves even more and sometimes the items are free.

  361. My big savings tip is organization, I not only use a huge coupon organizer but I even get emails with the flyers of the stores I want to shop in so i can compare prices before I go out! the more organized you are the more money you can save!

  362. My big savings tip is organization, I not only use a huge coupon organizer but I even get emails with the flyers of the stores I want to shop in so i can compare prices before I go out! the more organized you are the more money you can save!

  363. Gifts from the heart are better than gifts from the wallet. For instance I’m giving my mother-in-law a scrapbook of pictures of her kids and grandkids on each page they are gonna write a letter to her. She’s gonna cry her eyes out.

  364. Gifts from the heart are better than gifts from the wallet. For instance I’m giving my mother-in-law a scrapbook of pictures of her kids and grandkids on each page they are gonna write a letter to her. She’s gonna cry her eyes out.

  365. Create your own “living” evergreen wreath. Start with a circular oasis. Collect evergreen and herb clippings from your yard (ie: bayberry, holly, juniper, sage, etc.) and insert them into the oasis until it’s covered. Add berries, dried flowers, etc. To finish put a candle in the center and set up on a pillar cake stand. Beautiful and inexpensive! Be sure to soak oasis once a week and mist daily to keep it green.

  366. Create your own “living” evergreen wreath. Start with a circular oasis. Collect evergreen and herb clippings from your yard (ie: bayberry, holly, juniper, sage, etc.) and insert them into the oasis until it’s covered. Add berries, dried flowers, etc. To finish put a candle in the center and set up on a pillar cake stand. Beautiful and inexpensive! Be sure to soak oasis once a week and mist daily to keep it green.

  367. I think i am well known with friends and family for being so cheap. I don’t mind because I know that we don’t have much money and I just don’t want to throw away any money I might have so I am really careful and make my dollars stretch as far as I possibly can. One way to stretch your dollar is to watch those pesky flyers for the stores that come in the paper and your mailbox. If you take time and a piece of paper each week you can write down the stores you shop in and what they have on sale. If you add a coupon with an item that is on sale sometimes you can get stuff you use everyday for next-to or nothing at all. I stock up on what I use (like cleaning supplies and shampoos) whenever they are on sale. Another tip is to buy used! Go to your local thrift store. Oh and by the way the stores that support non-profit organizations like animal shelters or hospitals are the best ones. You can get items that are basicly new to you for about a dollar. It is really great to get baby, or toddler clothes, toys and any holiday decorations. The more you go the more deals you find and you are supporting somthing in your town like an animal shelter.
    Buy your Christmas candy after Halloween when all of the Halloween candy is 75% off. Bring your own drink when ever you go out instead of stopping and getting a drink for a $1.50 or more. Don’t buy the meals at fast food joints. There is more to my cheapness but time is money and I don’t have either…hehe Thanks for the chance to win.

  368. I think i am well known with friends and family for being so cheap. I don’t mind because I know that we don’t have much money and I just don’t want to throw away any money I might have so I am really careful and make my dollars stretch as far as I possibly can. One way to stretch your dollar is to watch those pesky flyers for the stores that come in the paper and your mailbox. If you take time and a piece of paper each week you can write down the stores you shop in and what they have on sale. If you add a coupon with an item that is on sale sometimes you can get stuff you use everyday for next-to or nothing at all. I stock up on what I use (like cleaning supplies and shampoos) whenever they are on sale. Another tip is to buy used! Go to your local thrift store. Oh and by the way the stores that support non-profit organizations like animal shelters or hospitals are the best ones. You can get items that are basicly new to you for about a dollar. It is really great to get baby, or toddler clothes, toys and any holiday decorations. The more you go the more deals you find and you are supporting somthing in your town like an animal shelter.
    Buy your Christmas candy after Halloween when all of the Halloween candy is 75% off. Bring your own drink when ever you go out instead of stopping and getting a drink for a $1.50 or more. Don’t buy the meals at fast food joints. There is more to my cheapness but time is money and I don’t have either…hehe Thanks for the chance to win.

  369. Recycle, always recycle! After the presents are opened I gather up the gift-wrapping paper that isn’t torn or wrinkled and save it for next year to use on “smaller” (in size) presents!

  370. Recycle, always recycle! After the presents are opened I gather up the gift-wrapping paper that isn’t torn or wrinkled and save it for next year to use on “smaller” (in size) presents!

  371. I think dollar stores are excellent for things like stocking stuffers,candles, holiday cards and of course wrapping paper:)

  372. I think dollar stores are excellent for things like stocking stuffers,candles, holiday cards and of course wrapping paper:)

  373. buy your groceries at a discount grocery store.
    in our area there are Aldi’s and Sav-a-lot
    stores , the items are just as good if not better then the big chain stores.but they cost drastically less

  374. buy your groceries at a discount grocery store.
    in our area there are Aldi’s and Sav-a-lot
    stores , the items are just as good if not better then the big chain stores.but they cost drastically less

  375. Save money by buying kid’s special occasion clothes at consignment shops. They are usually in near new condition, having been worn just once.

  376. Save money by buying kid’s special occasion clothes at consignment shops. They are usually in near new condition, having been worn just once.

  377. My tip for SAVING MONEY as well as making the Holidays Greener is to skip the Christmas gift wrapping entirely. Change things up and have some FUN with your children and your family and have them hunt through the house for the gifts (of course your gift will have a Christmas gift tag on it). If you hide the presents under chairs and beds, in closets, in cupboards or the crisper drawer of the refrigerator, etc. everyone will have a great time. And don’t worry about any missed gifts because if you think you might forget, make a list of where you hid them ahead of time. You will save to much MONEY on not having to purchase any Christmas wrap and ribbon this year AND just think of all the time you will save not having to wrap all those gifts and all the unnecessary paper you will save too! Happy Holidays everyone!

  378. My tip for SAVING MONEY as well as making the Holidays Greener is to skip the Christmas gift wrapping entirely. Change things up and have some FUN with your children and your family and have them hunt through the house for the gifts (of course your gift will have a Christmas gift tag on it). If you hide the presents under chairs and beds, in closets, in cupboards or the crisper drawer of the refrigerator, etc. everyone will have a great time. And don’t worry about any missed gifts because if you think you might forget, make a list of where you hid them ahead of time. You will save to much MONEY on not having to purchase any Christmas wrap and ribbon this year AND just think of all the time you will save not having to wrap all those gifts and all the unnecessary paper you will save too! Happy Holidays everyone!

  379. I make a gift list, set a budget for each person and stick to it. It’s a fun challenge to see how much I can come under budget with a little bit of research and creativity.

  380. I make a gift list, set a budget for each person and stick to it. It’s a fun challenge to see how much I can come under budget with a little bit of research and creativity.

  381. I save by decorating a silk ficus every year for whatever holiday’s I want to decorate. Xmas trees cost too much these days.

  382. I save by decorating a silk ficus every year for whatever holiday’s I want to decorate. Xmas trees cost too much these days.

  383. I found that a meal plan saves us a ton of money. I make a menu for the whole month, if I know what we are having for dinner, we don’t eat out as much. I made a list of 30+ meals and let the kids choose 4 or 5 then put them on the calendar.

  384. I found that a meal plan saves us a ton of money. I make a menu for the whole month, if I know what we are having for dinner, we don’t eat out as much. I made a list of 30+ meals and let the kids choose 4 or 5 then put them on the calendar.

  385. My daughter always ask what I want for Christmas. I cleaned out my closets this year and gave the clothes I can’t wear or just don’t wear. to our local Christian Center. I matched out everything and had one outfit that I needed a blouse or sweater to wear with it. This is what I told my daughter I wanted. This should not cost very much for the type I need. I would rather she not buy anything but she will anyway. This way she will not spend but a small amount and she is on short time and work and her husband works outside and work depends on the weather.We did not do any spluge spending this year. We stuck exactly to the list we made. We saved about half of the money we usually spend. We shopped only sales. I grocery shopped ahead for the family dinner and bought most of it when it was on sale.

  386. My daughter always ask what I want for Christmas. I cleaned out my closets this year and gave the clothes I can’t wear or just don’t wear. to our local Christian Center. I matched out everything and had one outfit that I needed a blouse or sweater to wear with it. This is what I told my daughter I wanted. This should not cost very much for the type I need. I would rather she not buy anything but she will anyway. This way she will not spend but a small amount and she is on short time and work and her husband works outside and work depends on the weather.We did not do any spluge spending this year. We stuck exactly to the list we made. We saved about half of the money we usually spend. We shopped only sales. I grocery shopped ahead for the family dinner and bought most of it when it was on sale.

  387. Since my husband and I are just students we have been learning a lot about going green and saving money. We read that even when appliances are turned off but still plugged into the outlet they still use energy and run the meeter. We have taken out all the appliances we are not using and turned down the heater just a few degrees at night and have changed out bills from $197 and $98 to $98 and $18. A good way to save while celebrating the holidays.

  388. Since my husband and I are just students we have been learning a lot about going green and saving money. We read that even when appliances are turned off but still plugged into the outlet they still use energy and run the meeter. We have taken out all the appliances we are not using and turned down the heater just a few degrees at night and have changed out bills from $197 and $98 to $98 and $18. A good way to save while celebrating the holidays.

  389. I cut coupons and then I match my coupons to the current sales that are going on at the local stores in my area. I also buy store brands when available.

  390. I cut coupons and then I match my coupons to the current sales that are going on at the local stores in my area. I also buy store brands when available.

  391. My tip is to shop ahead all through the year for Christmas and birthdays. In summer I go to as many garage sales as possible and buy presents and usually by Christmas time I am set in the present department. 🙂

    I subscribe to your blog.

    Thank you

  392. My tip is to shop ahead all through the year for Christmas and birthdays. In summer I go to as many garage sales as possible and buy presents and usually by Christmas time I am set in the present department. 🙂

    I subscribe to your blog.

    Thank you

  393. I save a ton of money at the holidays by buying all my gift wrap, gift bags, and ribbon at the dollar store. Different dollar stores specialize in different items, so if the gift wrap selection at one isn’t what you want, try another. The savings is worth it!

    oinkmoobaa (at) yahoo (.) com

  394. I like to shop Walmart after Christmas clearance. Last year I got beauty baskets for $3.00 and now able to give them out to teachers and other for this Christmas!
    Carla
    cpullum(at)yahoo(dot)com

  395. I save a ton of money at the holidays by buying all my gift wrap, gift bags, and ribbon at the dollar store. Different dollar stores specialize in different items, so if the gift wrap selection at one isn’t what you want, try another. The savings is worth it!

    oinkmoobaa (at) yahoo (.) com

  396. I like to shop Walmart after Christmas clearance. Last year I got beauty baskets for $3.00 and now able to give them out to teachers and other for this Christmas!
    Carla
    cpullum(at)yahoo(dot)com

  397. I’ve subscribed to you blog!

    My holiday tip is:

    I save up my coins all year long, then in December, I go to Coinstar and buy a bunch of giftcards. It is so easy to do and it doesn’t seem like you’re spending much. The coins really do add up and whatever I have saved up is how much I spend on Christmas gifts!

  398. I’ve subscribed to you blog!

    My holiday tip is:

    I save up my coins all year long, then in December, I go to Coinstar and buy a bunch of giftcards. It is so easy to do and it doesn’t seem like you’re spending much. The coins really do add up and whatever I have saved up is how much I spend on Christmas gifts!

  399. One money saving tip that really helped me this year was to start buying presents for people in July and just buy a few presents each month. By spacing it out and looking for things on sale it wasn’t a blast to our checking account in December. Also we choose names for our big family gatherings!! I could sure use this card to start saving in January!
    Thanks!

  400. One money saving tip that really helped me this year was to start buying presents for people in July and just buy a few presents each month. By spacing it out and looking for things on sale it wasn’t a blast to our checking account in December. Also we choose names for our big family gatherings!! I could sure use this card to start saving in January!
    Thanks!

  401. i buy gifts on ebay you can find some awesome deals and you dont have to wait in lines or even leave the comfort of your own home 🙂

  402. i buy gifts on ebay you can find some awesome deals and you dont have to wait in lines or even leave the comfort of your own home 🙂

  403. My money saving tip is during the day when we r home keep the heat to a comfortable level if u get a little cold have a comfy blanket with u and when u go to bed turn your heat down more because you are going to be under your covers anyway that saves a lot on your heating bill nyckia@msn.com

  404. My money saving tip is during the day when we r home keep the heat to a comfortable level if u get a little cold have a comfy blanket with u and when u go to bed turn your heat down more because you are going to be under your covers anyway that saves a lot on your heating bill nyckia@msn.com

  405. I buy a big turkey even though there is only four of us, since all the rest of our family lives 1200 miles away. I make extras so that I can freeze the leftovers. When the money gets tight during the up coming couple of months I pull out the frozen leftovers and have a couple of meals. That saves money and helps with getting us through the long months so we are a one income family. We have also traded our big huge fresh cut Christmas tree for a small fiber obtic tree which saves on electricty by using no lights.
    Thank you for a chance to win and give those I love a much happier holiday season.

    Happy Holidays….

    camper223[at]live[dot]com

  406. I buy a big turkey even though there is only four of us, since all the rest of our family lives 1200 miles away. I make extras so that I can freeze the leftovers. When the money gets tight during the up coming couple of months I pull out the frozen leftovers and have a couple of meals. That saves money and helps with getting us through the long months so we are a one income family. We have also traded our big huge fresh cut Christmas tree for a small fiber obtic tree which saves on electricty by using no lights.
    Thank you for a chance to win and give those I love a much happier holiday season.

    Happy Holidays….

    camper223[at]live[dot]com

  407. I buy gift cards at my local grocery store to shop with and earn Fuel Perks I have pumped 3 free tanks of gas this month!

  408. shopping at walmart is a very big “deal” in my household. With 5 people in the house, (2adults, 3 kids) we spend a lot of money at walmart this would realy help.

  409. shopping at walmart is a very big “deal” in my household. With 5 people in the house, (2adults, 3 kids) we spend a lot of money at walmart this would realy help.

  410. I organize my grocery coupons by aisle (frozen, cereal, paper, etc.), and store them in an expandable coupon folder. That way they’re organized and handy for each shopping trip.

  411. I organize my grocery coupons by aisle (frozen, cereal, paper, etc.), and store them in an expandable coupon folder. That way they’re organized and handy for each shopping trip.

  412. I only shop with cash because using credit or debit cards makes it too easy not to keep track of what you spend.

  413. My tip for saving money is to shop the after Christmas sales for gifts for the following year. We shop at a variety of stores that offer up to 80% of gift items. We usually can get real nice Mothers Day and Fathers Day gifts as well as Birthday gifts. Plus, sometimes we get additional coupons for exyra instore savings.

  414. My tip for saving money is to shop the after Christmas sales for gifts for the following year. We shop at a variety of stores that offer up to 80% of gift items. We usually can get real nice Mothers Day and Fathers Day gifts as well as Birthday gifts. Plus, sometimes we get additional coupons for exyra instore savings.

  415. Thanks for the chance to win! These giveaways are great!

    One of the ways I save our family a lot of money is to use Walmart’s price matching system. Instead of driving to several different stores and spending extra gas and time, I bring the flyers from competing groceries stores and I use their ads to get their sale price at Walmart. I also use my coupons! Last week, I got Tide for $3.99 a bottle doing this and fresh bananas for .29 a lb. This not only saves me money, but also saves me WORK. Being the Mom of four children under 10 years of age, anything that saves me time, gas and effort is a life-saver! I’m amazed at the amount of people that don’t take advantage of this wonderful program! It literally could save one family thousands of dollars!

    Hope this helps someone!
    Melanie

  416. Thanks for the chance to win! These giveaways are great!

    One of the ways I save our family a lot of money is to use Walmart’s price matching system. Instead of driving to several different stores and spending extra gas and time, I bring the flyers from competing groceries stores and I use their ads to get their sale price at Walmart. I also use my coupons! Last week, I got Tide for $3.99 a bottle doing this and fresh bananas for .29 a lb. This not only saves me money, but also saves me WORK. Being the Mom of four children under 10 years of age, anything that saves me time, gas and effort is a life-saver! I’m amazed at the amount of people that don’t take advantage of this wonderful program! It literally could save one family thousands of dollars!

    Hope this helps someone!
    Melanie

  417. We put aside money each month during the year, then limit holiday spending to the amount we’ve saved to avoid additional year-end expenses. We also give only one gift per family for our relatives, instead of one gift per person. Popular gifts include movie tickets, a new DVD, a board game, or a fun theme-dinner basket that the family can enjoy together.

  418. We put aside money each month during the year, then limit holiday spending to the amount we’ve saved to avoid additional year-end expenses. We also give only one gift per family for our relatives, instead of one gift per person. Popular gifts include movie tickets, a new DVD, a board game, or a fun theme-dinner basket that the family can enjoy together.

  419. I just subscribed to your blog!

    My favorite holiday money saving tip is to make homemade gifts. My sisters and I have made a tradition out if it actually. We get together every year and make gifts for our huge group of nieces and nephews. If we have time we even make neighbor and friend gifts. It saves us a grundle of money and we have memories to cherish forever!

  420. I just subscribed to your blog!

    My favorite holiday money saving tip is to make homemade gifts. My sisters and I have made a tradition out if it actually. We get together every year and make gifts for our huge group of nieces and nephews. If we have time we even make neighbor and friend gifts. It saves us a grundle of money and we have memories to cherish forever!

  421. I always like to make a list of everything I want to buy for my loved ones. Whether it’s a dream gift, a must have or a stocking stuffer. I love to save money so I always subscribe to their email list through a separate email address and check it every few days. I actually found amazing deals and got most of the must haves and few dream gifts half the price!

  422. I always like to make a list of everything I want to buy for my loved ones. Whether it’s a dream gift, a must have or a stocking stuffer. I love to save money so I always subscribe to their email list through a separate email address and check it every few days. I actually found amazing deals and got most of the must haves and few dream gifts half the price!

  423. I do a lot of scenic photography, and everyone seems to think I’m pretty good at it. For Christmas, I save money by blowing up some of my most beautiful prints and getting a friend of mine who has a graphics and framing business to frame them for me for free, in exchange for my permission to print up and sell 10 copies of each photo I get framed for free. He gets great artwork to sell to others, I get free framework done, and my friends get beautifully frames gorgeous photos for their walls… it’s a win, win, win situation for all of us. An added bonus for me is that some people have bought my photos from my friend then come back asking to buy more, so I’ve even managed to make some money selling my photos through his business, giving me money to spend on other gifts for other people, and making Christmas even less of a budget buster because I always save the money I earn from selling those photos for spending at Christmas time.

  424. I do a lot of scenic photography, and everyone seems to think I’m pretty good at it. For Christmas, I save money by blowing up some of my most beautiful prints and getting a friend of mine who has a graphics and framing business to frame them for me for free, in exchange for my permission to print up and sell 10 copies of each photo I get framed for free. He gets great artwork to sell to others, I get free framework done, and my friends get beautifully frames gorgeous photos for their walls… it’s a win, win, win situation for all of us. An added bonus for me is that some people have bought my photos from my friend then come back asking to buy more, so I’ve even managed to make some money selling my photos through his business, giving me money to spend on other gifts for other people, and making Christmas even less of a budget buster because I always save the money I earn from selling those photos for spending at Christmas time.

  425. Hello, I just subscribed to your blog, and am completing the holiday money-saving tip portion of my entry. I find around this time of year, we tend to eat more and be sedentary (in the Midwest, no one really wants to brave the cold).. This behavior tends to rack up heating and food bills; rather than buying more material junk as gifts for my younger relatives (who still expect stuff for Xmas and are the bulk of my holiday purchase as such), I take them ice skating at the downtown Chicago rink or swimming at the indoor gym. It’s so much healthier for the body and mind to spend time outdoors, even when it’s cold. In essence, when there’s kids on holiday from school for weeks at a time, it’s best to encourage them to play outside so the tv/computer/food bills stay at manageable levels!

  426. Hello, I just subscribed to your blog, and am completing the holiday money-saving tip portion of my entry. I find around this time of year, we tend to eat more and be sedentary (in the Midwest, no one really wants to brave the cold).. This behavior tends to rack up heating and food bills; rather than buying more material junk as gifts for my younger relatives (who still expect stuff for Xmas and are the bulk of my holiday purchase as such), I take them ice skating at the downtown Chicago rink or swimming at the indoor gym. It’s so much healthier for the body and mind to spend time outdoors, even when it’s cold. In essence, when there’s kids on holiday from school for weeks at a time, it’s best to encourage them to play outside so the tv/computer/food bills stay at manageable levels!

  427. Tips so you don’t have to buy any drain declogger. I saw this on tv. You put a little baking soda in the drain and pour some vinegar on it and it works just as good as draino. I know it helps that all I use and its safe.

  428. Tips so you don’t have to buy any drain declogger. I saw this on tv. You put a little baking soda in the drain and pour some vinegar on it and it works just as good as draino. I know it helps that all I use and its safe.

  429. I subscribed!

    I like to do a little shopping here and there throughout the year. When there is a sale and I see something that one of my friends or family members might enjoy, I buy it and save it. Around Christmas I take those “gifts” that I’ve been collecting and saving throughout the year and it takes the weight off of Christmas shopping. I am not stressed about time or going to busy shopping malls (although I still inevitably have a gift or two to purchase). Since I distribute my purchases throughout the year and I buy on sale I end up saving a lot of money

  430. I subscribed!

    I like to do a little shopping here and there throughout the year. When there is a sale and I see something that one of my friends or family members might enjoy, I buy it and save it. Around Christmas I take those “gifts” that I’ve been collecting and saving throughout the year and it takes the weight off of Christmas shopping. I am not stressed about time or going to busy shopping malls (although I still inevitably have a gift or two to purchase). Since I distribute my purchases throughout the year and I buy on sale I end up saving a lot of money

  431. My best tip about saving money is to simply stay out of stores as much as possible. IF you must go shopping, go with a plan and a budget…and stick to it!
    Also, we save a lot of money by limiting our gift purchases. We mostly buy for the kids and our parents. Not many others. And you know what? They don’t mind. Really, who needs another Yankee candle or BBW bath wash?
    Thanks for this chance to win.

  432. My best tip about saving money is to simply stay out of stores as much as possible. IF you must go shopping, go with a plan and a budget…and stick to it!
    Also, we save a lot of money by limiting our gift purchases. We mostly buy for the kids and our parents. Not many others. And you know what? They don’t mind. Really, who needs another Yankee candle or BBW bath wash?
    Thanks for this chance to win.

  433. My tip is to always make a list and stick with it when shopping to avoid impulse purchases and never go shopping on a hungry stomach because you might make additional splurges on food. Thanks!
    lisalmg25 at gmail dot com

  434. My tip is to always make a list and stick with it when shopping to avoid impulse purchases and never go shopping on a hungry stomach because you might make additional splurges on food. Thanks!
    lisalmg25 at gmail dot com

  435. My money-saving tips are to use coupons; monitor the local circulars for good sales and be sure to take them with you when shopping; and cut out any unnecessary purchases at supermarket.

  436. My money-saving tips are to use coupons; monitor the local circulars for good sales and be sure to take them with you when shopping; and cut out any unnecessary purchases at supermarket.

  437. This year I made most of my Christmas gifts, and baked for everyone else on my list. It definitely takes more effort to spend time making gifts, but I know the effort is appreciated. Thanks for the chance to win!

  438. This year I made most of my Christmas gifts, and baked for everyone else on my list. It definitely takes more effort to spend time making gifts, but I know the effort is appreciated. Thanks for the chance to win!

  439. Pull out cash instead of plastic where feasible – a) be prepared for the difficulty, b) be amazed at how reducing impulse purchases add up to savings 🙂

  440. Pull out cash instead of plastic where feasible – a) be prepared for the difficulty, b) be amazed at how reducing impulse purchases add up to savings 🙂

  441. My holiday money saving tip is if you just have to buy wrapping paper, gift bags, Christmas Cards, etc. to buy them at the Dollar Store. Those things are a lot cheaper at the Dollar Store than at other stores especially in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

  442. My holiday money saving tip is if you just have to buy wrapping paper, gift bags, Christmas Cards, etc. to buy them at the Dollar Store. Those things are a lot cheaper at the Dollar Store than at other stores especially in the weeks leading up to Christmas.

  443. I only shop with cash because using credit or debit cards makes it too easy not to keep track of what you spend.

  444. I just subscribed. My money saving tip is to buy non name brand food. You can save lots of money that way. Thanks for the chance to win.

  445. I just subscribed. My money saving tip is to buy non name brand food. You can save lots of money that way. Thanks for the chance to win.

  446. I’ve found that many chain stores have better prices online than in the store due to the fact that they are all separate businesses and even thought they carry the same products -the prices aren’t necessarily the same. I learned this the hard way by buying an item for $58 in the store and came home to see that it was $39.50 online – I called to see if there was a mistake and was told that each store sets its own prices and they may not be the same as onine. A significant savings that will more than cover any shipping costs. So Check online first – saves you time and headache checking out at the store! Your time is priceless.

  447. I’ve found that many chain stores have better prices online than in the store due to the fact that they are all separate businesses and even thought they carry the same products -the prices aren’t necessarily the same. I learned this the hard way by buying an item for $58 in the store and came home to see that it was $39.50 online – I called to see if there was a mistake and was told that each store sets its own prices and they may not be the same as onine. A significant savings that will more than cover any shipping costs. So Check online first – saves you time and headache checking out at the store! Your time is priceless.

  448. I always start shopping early in the year. Even the week after Christmas. This is when I get great buys on toys for birthdays throughout the year. Also, I always go to consignment sales with good deals such as mothers of multiples. This is where I get most of my gifts and clothes. I am able to buy entire wardrobes for my kids up through size 16 for 50 dollars. They also only sell clothes that aren’t stained etc.

  449. I always start shopping early in the year. Even the week after Christmas. This is when I get great buys on toys for birthdays throughout the year. Also, I always go to consignment sales with good deals such as mothers of multiples. This is where I get most of my gifts and clothes. I am able to buy entire wardrobes for my kids up through size 16 for 50 dollars. They also only sell clothes that aren’t stained etc.

  450. A couple months ago I asked a home improvement store if they had any old wallpaper samples they were getting rid of. They gave me a bunch! At the time I used it to wallpaper my daughter’s wooden Barbie house. Then one day I realized it could be used as wrapping paper. Some of the designs even work for Christmas paper. The presents look great!

    rconway111@gmail.com

  451. A couple months ago I asked a home improvement store if they had any old wallpaper samples they were getting rid of. They gave me a bunch! At the time I used it to wallpaper my daughter’s wooden Barbie house. Then one day I realized it could be used as wrapping paper. Some of the designs even work for Christmas paper. The presents look great!

    rconway111@gmail.com

  452. Shop online for your gifts! Use ebates for rebates after you buy, use search engines to search for online coupons and codes and take advantage of free shipping. Do this all year long, and December will be fairly relaxed (except for the baking, decorating and Christmas-light wars with the neighbors).

  453. Shop online for your gifts! Use ebates for rebates after you buy, use search engines to search for online coupons and codes and take advantage of free shipping. Do this all year long, and December will be fairly relaxed (except for the baking, decorating and Christmas-light wars with the neighbors).

  454. I do a lot of my shopping at charity store. That way my money goes to a good cause and I can cloth my four kids cheap.

  455. I do a lot of my shopping at charity store. That way my money goes to a good cause and I can cloth my four kids cheap.

  456. Do your shopping online! Not only do you save on gas, but many sites offer free shipping around Christmas! You can even have your gift shipped directly to the recipient, saving you postage to send it yourself!

  457. Do your shopping online! Not only do you save on gas, but many sites offer free shipping around Christmas! You can even have your gift shipped directly to the recipient, saving you postage to send it yourself!

  458. I spent three years paying off all my credit cards, and only use cash now. For christmas, I make a list of the santa gifts I’m getting, the Mom gifts, and the friend gifts (always homemade!) make myself a budget and look for the sales. With the economy the way it is now, finding sales on the popular items is easier than ever. Just be patient and remember, if it’s not on sale today, it’ll probably be on sale tomorrow!

  459. I spent three years paying off all my credit cards, and only use cash now. For christmas, I make a list of the santa gifts I’m getting, the Mom gifts, and the friend gifts (always homemade!) make myself a budget and look for the sales. With the economy the way it is now, finding sales on the popular items is easier than ever. Just be patient and remember, if it’s not on sale today, it’ll probably be on sale tomorrow!

  460. I subscribed.

    My tip to plan ahead. The memories are made with activities you do with your family, not the gifts. So take time to bake a batch of cookies or watch a movie together. Play a board game, sing carols, see the lights, go to church together etc. Things don’t have to look perfect to make good memories. Leave Martha Stewart type things to her to do. Spend time with the kids instead and let them do things their way. I used to redecorate the tree after the kids helped, but I stopped that. If they’re happy, it’s ok with me. People who stop by won’t ever be impressed with our pristine perfection, but they’ll know that we’re happy because we’re all part of Christmas.

  461. I subscribed.

    My tip to plan ahead. The memories are made with activities you do with your family, not the gifts. So take time to bake a batch of cookies or watch a movie together. Play a board game, sing carols, see the lights, go to church together etc. Things don’t have to look perfect to make good memories. Leave Martha Stewart type things to her to do. Spend time with the kids instead and let them do things their way. I used to redecorate the tree after the kids helped, but I stopped that. If they’re happy, it’s ok with me. People who stop by won’t ever be impressed with our pristine perfection, but they’ll know that we’re happy because we’re all part of Christmas.

  462. My tip: Use the internet to its fullest potential. Search for and research your major purchases first to see where you can get a good deal. Don’t worry about buying online; there are several safety measures taken to preserve your identity. BUT… Keep in mind to only shop at those sites you trust, and that OTHERs trust. I try to look for online reviews of the site as well. If you shop at a store often, the best way to receive discounts is to sign up for their email notifications. I get the best deals that way. If you miss out on one, you can always do a search for online coupon or promotion codes too.

  463. My tip: Use the internet to its fullest potential. Search for and research your major purchases first to see where you can get a good deal. Don’t worry about buying online; there are several safety measures taken to preserve your identity. BUT… Keep in mind to only shop at those sites you trust, and that OTHERs trust. I try to look for online reviews of the site as well. If you shop at a store often, the best way to receive discounts is to sign up for their email notifications. I get the best deals that way. If you miss out on one, you can always do a search for online coupon or promotion codes too.

  464. Combine coupons with store sales. I save all the coupons that come in the Sunday paper and wait to purchase items until they are on sale – combined with coupons. Often times you can write to corporations asking them for coupons for items you use frequently and often times they will send them to you.

  465. Combine coupons with store sales. I save all the coupons that come in the Sunday paper and wait to purchase items until they are on sale – combined with coupons. Often times you can write to corporations asking them for coupons for items you use frequently and often times they will send them to you.

  466. Take advantage of free family fun! Every year I print out the ABC Family 25 Days of Christmas programming schedule, and I pick out kid-friendly choices such as Frosty, etc. We spend each evening after THanksgiving until Christmas doing something holiday related together, and on those nights we have free entertainment.

  467. Take advantage of free family fun! Every year I print out the ABC Family 25 Days of Christmas programming schedule, and I pick out kid-friendly choices such as Frosty, etc. We spend each evening after THanksgiving until Christmas doing something holiday related together, and on those nights we have free entertainment.

  468. Saving tip, carpool when shopping! Save Money on gas, bring your own water bottle, so when you get thirsty you will not have to buy a drink!

  469. My best tip would be to teach your

    children to value old fashion hard

    work instead of commercialized Fads.

    Have them make their own christmas

    cards and tree decorations. If you

    have a Gift exchange amongst adult,

    have it a NO BUY rule… you have to

    make it with your own hands!

    I’m sure that’s not the kind of tip

    your looking for especially in this

    day and age!

    Also, I make a list of whom I need to

    buy for IN JANUARY, then throughout

    the year I buy items on clearance

    and/or with coupons. Stick to the

    list. Do not impulse buy! My wallet

    does not know what retail means

    because I refuse to purchase gifts at

    retail. I’m not a scrooge…really.

    It’s just that when your bring home

    pay is less than 1,000 per month you

    stretch where and when you can.

    Same goes for decorations, those that

    we don’t make, we purchase AFTER the

    holidays and put them away for the

    following year.

    Stockpile items with coupons so you

    are buying them at about 90% OFF.

    Purchasing a case of ketchup, mayo,

    beans, whatever… will keep you from

    paying full price throughout the rest

    of the year! One time I bought 9

    PALLETS of toilet paper (15 four packs

    to a pallet) because I had a coupon

    that made them free. We gave 1 pallet

    to the food pantry, divided 1 pallet

    up among friends & family and the rest

    we kept. It last 2 years!

    Thanks
    Tammy OHagan
    tammyohagan ~~~ AT ~~~ westco ~~~ DOT

    ~~~ net

  470. My best tip would be to teach your

    children to value old fashion hard

    work instead of commercialized Fads.

    Have them make their own christmas

    cards and tree decorations. If you

    have a Gift exchange amongst adult,

    have it a NO BUY rule… you have to

    make it with your own hands!

    I’m sure that’s not the kind of tip

    your looking for especially in this

    day and age!

    Also, I make a list of whom I need to

    buy for IN JANUARY, then throughout

    the year I buy items on clearance

    and/or with coupons. Stick to the

    list. Do not impulse buy! My wallet

    does not know what retail means

    because I refuse to purchase gifts at

    retail. I’m not a scrooge…really.

    It’s just that when your bring home

    pay is less than 1,000 per month you

    stretch where and when you can.

    Same goes for decorations, those that

    we don’t make, we purchase AFTER the

    holidays and put them away for the

    following year.

    Stockpile items with coupons so you

    are buying them at about 90% OFF.

    Purchasing a case of ketchup, mayo,

    beans, whatever… will keep you from

    paying full price throughout the rest

    of the year! One time I bought 9

    PALLETS of toilet paper (15 four packs

    to a pallet) because I had a coupon

    that made them free. We gave 1 pallet

    to the food pantry, divided 1 pallet

    up among friends & family and the rest

    we kept. It last 2 years!

    Thanks
    Tammy OHagan
    tammyohagan ~~~ AT ~~~ westco ~~~ DOT

    ~~~ net

  471. I do Once-a-Month cooking/freezer meals. This helps me so much with menu planning and with 3 kids 4 and under (with another on the way) I only have to make one very short trip to the store each week for milk and produce. Buying in bulk from Sam’s Club and avoiding “impulse buying” each week saves me time and money- and sanity!!

  472. I do Once-a-Month cooking/freezer meals. This helps me so much with menu planning and with 3 kids 4 and under (with another on the way) I only have to make one very short trip to the store each week for milk and produce. Buying in bulk from Sam’s Club and avoiding “impulse buying” each week saves me time and money- and sanity!!

  473. We save money at the holidays by keeping a $5 dollar gift limit for all of our nieces and nephews, it makes us be creative and put a lot of thought into a good gift. Such as making jewelry or home-made playdough.

  474. We save money at the holidays by keeping a $5 dollar gift limit for all of our nieces and nephews, it makes us be creative and put a lot of thought into a good gift. Such as making jewelry or home-made playdough.

  475. My whole family goes over all of the stores sales ad, pick out our picks, then go to WalMart because they price match. So instead of going to all of the other stores and wasting gas, time, and energy, we buy all of our gifts at WalMart for just as inexpensive prices.

  476. My whole family goes over all of the stores sales ad, pick out our picks, then go to WalMart because they price match. So instead of going to all of the other stores and wasting gas, time, and energy, we buy all of our gifts at WalMart for just as inexpensive prices.

  477. Make sure you take ALL your coupons with you when you go to the store. It’s awful to see an unadvertised special or a good deal that you just missed when you looked through the ad and to have a great coupon for that item–in your coupon box at home. Ask me how I know. 😉

  478. Make sure you take ALL your coupons with you when you go to the store. It’s awful to see an unadvertised special or a good deal that you just missed when you looked through the ad and to have a great coupon for that item–in your coupon box at home. Ask me how I know. 😉

  479. I’ve saved all the holiday art my kids have made over the years. I hang that up on the walls (along with current holiday art), in collections around the house, entry way, stairway, hall, etc… its quite charming and the kids love to see that I have saved their creations from years past. Then, after making a ton of paper snowflakes that we hand by thread from the ceiling, all we need is our lovely old Christmas tree, a hand-me-down from Grannie, and there is no room for any fancy expensive decorations. I just love it.

  480. I’ve saved all the holiday art my kids have made over the years. I hang that up on the walls (along with current holiday art), in collections around the house, entry way, stairway, hall, etc… its quite charming and the kids love to see that I have saved their creations from years past. Then, after making a ton of paper snowflakes that we hand by thread from the ceiling, all we need is our lovely old Christmas tree, a hand-me-down from Grannie, and there is no room for any fancy expensive decorations. I just love it.

  481. I’ve learned a lot about couponing and how to get multiple flyers by asking people to save coupons and buying extra newspapers. It is worth the savings!

  482. I’ve learned a lot about couponing and how to get multiple flyers by asking people to save coupons and buying extra newspapers. It is worth the savings!

  483. My holiday money-saving tip is: Don’t be afraid to ask for a price match! Many major retailers are willing to do this for your business. It’s just very important to have evidence of the price, such as an ad. This can save you a lot of money by not having to drive to many different stores. Also, if the original retailer is out of stock on the item, it gives you a chance to pick it up somewhere else for the same price.

  484. My holiday money-saving tip is: Don’t be afraid to ask for a price match! Many major retailers are willing to do this for your business. It’s just very important to have evidence of the price, such as an ad. This can save you a lot of money by not having to drive to many different stores. Also, if the original retailer is out of stock on the item, it gives you a chance to pick it up somewhere else for the same price.

  485. Spend what you can on what you can being in debt on the holdiays isn’t really a holiday. Sometimes you just can’t give a gift, but let your kids know that giving gifts isn’t what the holidiays are all about but a chance to be together.

  486. Spend what you can on what you can being in debt on the holdiays isn’t really a holiday. Sometimes you just can’t give a gift, but let your kids know that giving gifts isn’t what the holidiays are all about but a chance to be together.

  487. When you make your list of who to buy gifts for, include an amount you wish to spend. Don’t go over that amount, no matter how much you think they’ll love something you’ve found. And, if you make grocery lists, use a different color for items you have coupons for so you don’t forget to use them.

  488. When you make your list of who to buy gifts for, include an amount you wish to spend. Don’t go over that amount, no matter how much you think they’ll love something you’ve found. And, if you make grocery lists, use a different color for items you have coupons for so you don’t forget to use them.

  489. I almost always purchase things on sale. I love the after Holidays sales when things go to 50% off or more. That’s when you can find some great bargains. Thanks for having a great contest and Happy Holidays!

  490. I almost always purchase things on sale. I love the after Holidays sales when things go to 50% off or more. That’s when you can find some great bargains. Thanks for having a great contest and Happy Holidays!

  491. In addition to the usual coupon clipping, buying on sale, price matching, making a list, etc. I have found that I save a lot of money by using cold hard cash for purchases. If you don’t have the money, you cannot spend it! It really cuts down on impulse buying!!! Thank you for the opportunity to participate in this giveaway! Happy Holidays to One and All!!!!

  492. In addition to the usual coupon clipping, buying on sale, price matching, making a list, etc. I have found that I save a lot of money by using cold hard cash for purchases. If you don’t have the money, you cannot spend it! It really cuts down on impulse buying!!! Thank you for the opportunity to participate in this giveaway! Happy Holidays to One and All!!!!

  493. Don’t wait until the New Year to make your resolution…you save a small fortune this holiday season if you resolve not to spend money you don’t have. Tough as it may sound, once you make that commitment it will become easier. Decide what you want to spend in total and compare that to your gift list of recipients. Be fair and divide the monies equally and then start thinking about what type of gifts will give you more bang for your buck. You won’t regret it I promise you…when others are lamenting their credit card debt you will no worries. Get in the habit of setting aside an extra $10-$20 whenever you can during the coming year and it will be even easier next year to experience the joy of giving without going into debt to do so.

  494. Don’t wait until the New Year to make your resolution…you save a small fortune this holiday season if you resolve not to spend money you don’t have. Tough as it may sound, once you make that commitment it will become easier. Decide what you want to spend in total and compare that to your gift list of recipients. Be fair and divide the monies equally and then start thinking about what type of gifts will give you more bang for your buck. You won’t regret it I promise you…when others are lamenting their credit card debt you will no worries. Get in the habit of setting aside an extra $10-$20 whenever you can during the coming year and it will be even easier next year to experience the joy of giving without going into debt to do so.

  495. I use coupons and thanks to wonderful bloggers like Melissa I’ve saved several spots that tell me the sales for the week for the various stores I shop, I print the list, highlight what I need to get, so I’m ready to go to the store. This saves me time and brain power. Thank you, Melissa, for all your hard work!

  496. I use coupons and thanks to wonderful bloggers like Melissa I’ve saved several spots that tell me the sales for the week for the various stores I shop, I print the list, highlight what I need to get, so I’m ready to go to the store. This saves me time and brain power. Thank you, Melissa, for all your hard work!

  497. The best tip I ever got from my MIL years ago was Christmas shop for NEXT YEAR as soon as the current is over. I start buying a few gifts a month after Christmas is over. It really has a huge impact on #1 over spending #2 your budget and #3 using credit cards!

    Thanks for the chance to win this great gift!

    Toni-Lynn
    @Holly_GPB

  498. Think about what they people on your list REALLY want, don’t buy them two or three things that they might like, get them something practical and useful, you’ll save money and they will love their gift!

    jcarter462@YAHOO.COM

  499. Think about what they people on your list REALLY want, don’t buy them two or three things that they might like, get them something practical and useful, you’ll save money and they will love their gift!

    jcarter462@YAHOO.COM

  500. Before I checkout with an online purchase, I ALWAYS do a quick search to see if I can find any coupon codes that would apply to my purchase. I’ve saved a lot of money this way.

  501. Before I checkout with an online purchase, I ALWAYS do a quick search to see if I can find any coupon codes that would apply to my purchase. I’ve saved a lot of money this way.

  502. To save money at Christmas I buy clearance/free items throughout the year and store them in a special place. I keep a list of what i have and who it’s for and also another list of extra stuff that could make nice gifts for random people on my list. Then, I donate any extra items to charity!

  503. To save money at Christmas I buy clearance/free items throughout the year and store them in a special place. I keep a list of what i have and who it’s for and also another list of extra stuff that could make nice gifts for random people on my list. Then, I donate any extra items to charity!

  504. The best tip I ever got from my MIL years ago was Christmas shop for NEXT YEAR as soon as the current is over. I start buying a few gifts a month after Christmas is over. It really has a huge impact on #1 over spending #2 your budget and #3 using credit cards!

    Thanks for the chance to win this great gift!

    Toni-Lynn
    @Holly_GPB

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *