Important Announcement: The NEW ThriftyGrl website is officially here!!

We are pleased to announce that the new ThriftyGrl site is up and running and ready to go!

Yes, readers, this is the first official post! We have spent months and months pondering and planning this very moment, so we hope you won’t be disappointed!

What’s new/different?
-First off: Obviously the look! We got a custom graphic, changed up the colors, and changed to a different 3 column layout.

-Organization: It pretty much is the same, but we tried to clean it up and make it more user friendly.

-Links: Many of you commented that figuring out exactly where to click (to visit a link) was kind of tricky. Enough said. Posts will keep regular text black, but links will appear in bright pink. So any time you see a bright pink word, it is linked to another website, picture, or the post page (this should be easy to figure out given the content of the post). We hope this helps to clear up any confusion!

-Contact: The contact tab has been deleted; all of the ways to contact us can be easily located on our homepage!

-Button: Fan of ThriftyGrl? We added a custom button that you can grab and add (easily!) to your website!

Now we want to hear from you! What do you think of the new site? Let us know!

Leave a comment and be entered to win a 2GB MP3 Player!  Everyone was so excited about the last MP3 Player giveaway that we wanted to give you a chance to win another one!

Here are the specs:

-Element Electronics MP3 Player
-2GB Memory
-LCD Display with 7 Backlight Options
-7 EQ Modes
-Voice Recording Feature
-Lyric Display Feature
-Supports MP3/WMA/WAV Format
-Multi-Language Display
-5 Playback Functions
-**USB Cord Included
-**Ear Buds Included


Interested? Here’s how to enter to win!


Giveaway Details:
We will be giving away a 2GB MP3 player to a verified email subscriber via random number generator. Contest starts as this is posted and ends Wednesday, January 6, 2010 at 12:00PM EST (you must be a verified email subscriber by that time to be entered to win). One entry per email subscriber for the “First Entry”. The number of additional entries you are eligible for depends on how many of the “Additional Entries” items you complete. (See full list below). Entering falsified information/fake additional entries will immediately null and void all of your entries and remove you from the contest completely. The email address you sign up with on the entry form must be the same as the email address used to subscribe to ThriftyGrl with. The winner of the giveaway will be notified immediately following the close of the contest. The winner will need to respond by Friday, January 9, 2009 at 9:00PM EST, or they will forfeit the prize and another winner will be drawn. This contest is eligible for both US and Canada residents only.

How to become an email subscriber:
In the upper right hand corner under the title "Subscribe", enter your email address. You will receive a confirmation email and it is VERY important that you click the link in the email to confirm your subscription (otherwise you are not actually signed up and therefore not eligible for the contest). If you have additional questions about being a verified subscriber, click HERE to read a previous post about it.

**You must be a verified email subscriber to enter this giveaway.

First Entry:
Here’s how to enter! Leave a comment on this post with the following information:

• First Name
• Last Initial
• Email Address
• Your feedback on the new website!

Note: ALL items above must be in your comment for you to be eligible to win!

  Additional Entries:

Leave a separate comment for each additional entry with your First Name, Last Initial, email address, and the following (pertinent) information:

Note: ALL items above MUST be in your comment for you to be eligible to win!

     1. Visit ThriftyGrl's Twitter page here and become a fan!
     2. ReTweet ThriftyGrl's giveaway on Twitter!
             Example: RT @ThriftyGrlJ has a new site – you’ll wanna check it out! Leave feedback by 1/6 & be entered to win an MP3 Player! http://tinyurl.com/y9gr3ke
     3. Visit ThriftyGrl's Facebook page here and become a fan!
     4. Place a message about the giveaway on your Facebook wall and leave a link to it.
          Example: ThriftyGrl has a new site – you’ll wanna check it out! Leave some feedback and be entered to win an MP3 Player! Contest ends 1/6.  http://tinyurl.com/y9gr3ke
      5. Blog about the giveaway or help spread the word on other blog/giveaway sites. Leave me a link for each one you do.
      6. Add ThriftyGrl to your blogroll and leave me a link to your page.
      7. Grab my button, add it to your page, and leave me a link to it.

Thanks for the feedback!  Good luck and Happy New Year!

In this day in age, you have to have legal disclaimers for giveaways.  Here's ours:  Winner hereby releases ThriftyGrl.com, its employees, subsidiaries, successors & assigns of any and all liability including, but not limited to, any injuries caused from use and/or misuse of giveaway items; shipping errors caused by: 1) incorrect information from giveaway participants; errors, omissions, and 2) negligence on the part of any services used to deliver said giveaway items; and incorrect information provided by said item's manufacturer.

And the winners for the two ThriftyGrl Giveaways are...

Both of our giveaways have officially ended and we have our winners!

..............................................

The winner of the $25 BJ's Gift Card is

Ashley S.!

(random number 1)

and...

The winner of the Progresso Prize Pack is

Kristi N.!

(random number 28)

Congrats to the both of you!

 You both will be receiving an email from ThriftyGrl momentarily. Please respond as soon as possible (no later than 2pm EST 1/1/10 ) so MyBlogSpark can send you your prizes.

**As for everyone else, stay tuned for yet another giveaway as well as the unveiling of the new ThriftyGrl website later on this evening!  

New Fuddruckers deal: Feed the family for $20!

Fuddruckers just announced a GREAT family deal:  Feed a family of four for $20! 

Dinner includes the following:

• Two 1/3lb burgers with fries & drinks (soft drinks or domestic beers!)
• 
  
  Two kid's meals (hamburger or hot dog) with fries & drink (milk or soft drink)
  
  
  
• Advertisement states:  Tax not included. Substitutions and add-ons extra. Must order at least 4 meals including 4 sides and 4 drinks. Participating locations may vary.

If you have ever eaten at Fuddruckers before, then you know that this is a great deal!  They have delicious food at great prices!

Click here for more info.

Click here to visit their website and find a Fuddruckers nearest you!

New Yankee Candle Coupon: $10 off any $25 purchase

There's a new Yankee Candle in-store coupon available!  It's for $10 off a $25 purchase and is valid until January 23.  If you are headed out shopping, click here to print it and take it with you.  Hopefully there will be some great sales to pair it with!  If I am able to get to the mall and run across any, I'll let you know!

Did you know about The IKEA Sale???

Did you know about "The IKEA Sale" that is currently going on? 

It started December 26 and runs until January 10!  If you know anything about me, then you know that I am a HUGE IKEA fan!  They have AWESOME stuff at AMAZING prices!  I can't get enough - I have traveled over 4 hours each way, loaded large box trucks, and even stopped during a layover at the airport just to shop there!  I cannot say enough about this store!  : )

OK, on to business... The IKEA Sale features a deal each day (for one day only), which includes the following:

-Thursday, December 31:  SPARSAM low energy bulbs:  normally $6.59/2 pack, on sale for $0.99!

-Friday, January 1:  LINNARP furniture is on sale!

        *LINNARP desk:  normally $119, on sale for $49!

          *LINNARP bookcase:  normally $249, on sale for $99!

          *LINNARP TV bench: normally $249, on sale for $99!

-Saturday, January 2:  MALM 3-drawer chest:  normally $79.99, on sale for $39.99!

-Sunday, January 3:  OFELIA SKAL full/queen duvet cover set:  normally $29.99/3 pieces, on sale for $14.99!

For the rest of the daily deals, click here to visit IKEA's website!  (As always, make sure to check that your local store participates in these sales before heading out - especially since for many people, IKEA is quite a drive!)

As if IKEA didn't offer great deals already... they are offering the following during their sale:

          -Kids eat FREE!  (Saturday, December 26- Sunday, January 3, 11am - closing.  No adult purchase necessary.  See website for more information.)

          -FREE breakfast!  (Saturday, December 26- Sunday, January 3, until 11am.  Limit one per customer.  See website for more information.)

Woo-hoo!  I can say that I will be there shopping this weekend, enjoying the sale, and eating my free breakfast! : )

Is anyone else out there a big fan of IKEA fan like I am??

Tupperware sale - 40% off!

Are you a Tupperware fan? 

(If you know my mother, then you know the definition of Tupperware fan!  Lol...) 

Well, one of our very loyal ThriftyGrl readers, Angela M., sells Tupperware on the side and has informed me of a sale that starts January 9th and goes until February 12th!  She says that Modular Mates are 40% off! 

Angela also tells me, "If people are interested they can contact me by phone or e-mail there (on her Tupperware site), and there are a lot of other good deals going on for the new year to be healthier, more organized, save money on wasting food, and more earth-friendly in 2010."

Sounds like a great way to start the New Year to me!  : )

Click here to visit her Tupperware site and see all of the deals she is offering!

Attention HBO Big Love fans: FREE download of "A Juniper Creek Christmas"!

My good friend Stef shared this next freebie with me... 

Christmas may have passed, but it is still the holiday season!  Fans of HBO's Big Love are in for a treat - you can listen to and download "A Juniper Creek Christmas" by clicking here!

Thanks Stef! : )

Free pregancy journal

Prenexa is currently offering a FREE pregnancy journal!  It includes "tips from diet to travel and even exercise. There is also space for your notes and memorabilia collected during this exciting time."

Want one?  Click here!

Reminder: FREE January kid's workshops!

Just a reminder of the upcoming FREE kid's workshops in January!

Home Depot:
 Home Depot offers Kid’s Workshops that are FREE “How-To-Workshops” for children ages 5- 12. These workshops are offered on the first Saturday of each month between 9am to noon at all Home Depot stores.

• Saturday, January 2:  Calendar 

Click here for more info!





Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinic:
Lowe’s offers Kid’s Workshops that are FREE. They are offered on Saturdays between 10am to 11am. You do have to register in advance for these.

• Saturday, January 9:  Coin Bank
• Saturday, January 23:  Tic Tac Toe

Click here for more info and to register!

NEW Michael's Coupon: 25% off your ENTIRE regular price purchase January 1st!

Michael's is offering a one day only coupon for New Year's Day:  25% off your entire regular price purchase!

Click here to print your coupon now!

(See coupon for exclusions)

Exciting new announcement: HUGE changes coming to ThriftyGrl!

We are very excited to announce that ThriftyGrl is undergoing some HUGE changes for the New Year!

..................................................................................................

I know change can be scary – but hear us out! Basically we are getting a complete makeover, but our content will remain the same!

Why the change? We wanted a more custom, professional look to our website. We also wanted to make it more visually appealing and user friendly.

What’s going to stay the same? The freebies, coupons, deals and tips all will continue as usual! The facelift is our only change – in hopes of making the site easier to navigate and use.

Who’s behind all of this? ThriftyGuy and I have been pondering this for quite some time now and have finally made the decision to go ahead with the renovation! Thanks to Cebong Ipiet, one of the most talented blog designers I have come to know, our ideas have come to life! (Click here to visit her website and see more of her creations!) A fun little fact: she actually designed our current website layout! That is why I went to her for our custom website – she is extremely talented, very affordable, and great to work with! I definitely recommend her if you are looking for someone to help you with your blog or website!

When will the change occur? We will implement the new layout on New Year’s Eve (Thursday, December 31) in the evening hours. The website will still be up and running during this process, but please bear with us as everything is loaded and finalized.

One more thing... We want to hear from you, our loyal readers! Once the new look is implemented and our first official post is made, we want to hear from you! Tell us what you think about the new site and be automatically entered into a giveaway for a great prize! (**Details of contest to follow.)

I hope you all are as excited as we are and find the new website easy to navigate, visually appealing, and fun to use!

We’ll see you all (officially) on the new site January 1, 2010!

Get ready for a great year!  : )

ThriftyGuy's Deal of the Day

Today's deals are full of Freebies! The first Freebie is for the PC game Velvet Assassin. This World War II based award winning game is offered today for Free, all you will have to pay is $4.99 for the shipping. This gamis is rated M for Mature. You can check out more about the game HERE. This deal will expire at Midnight EST on 12/30.

Today's second Freebie you may remember back from 10/13. Well, if you were not able to take advantage then, now is your second chance! Do you know what time it is? Today second Freebie is for two free watches, all you have to pay is $4.99 for the shipping. It is a Roman Numeral style watch with a Crocodile embossed straps.  Click Here for the deal. This deal will also expire at Midnight EST on 12/30.

The final Freebie for today is for the Eltron Battery Operated Mini Shaver. This shave is great for traveling, the office, or in the car (but not while driving). The Eltron Mini Shaver doen't have to plugged into an outlet because it runs off of one AA battery.This shave is so mini, that it only measures 3.5" x 1.75" x .5"! Take advantage of this great deal by Clicking Here. As I mentioned before, this shaver is Free, all you will have to pay is $5.99 for shipping. This deal will also expire at Midnight EST on 12/30.

ThriftyGuy's Deal of the Day

Today's first deal is for a 26 piece Storage Container set from Finelife model NV-00375. These containers come with a dial on them so you can set the date from when the food was from. They are also dishwasher, microwave and freezer safe. You will alos get a set of measuring spoons with your order. The Finelife containers only cost $9.98 and that inludes the shipping. Get your set HERE before this deal expires at Midnight on 12/29.

The next deal is for a 5 disc set of The Pink Panther cartoons. With over 13 hours of this cartoon classic, your kids will be entertained for hours. In addition to the cartoons, there is also some Special Features that incclude the history behind The Pink Panther and much much more. Get your set HERE for only $14.98 (includes S&H) before this deal expires at Midnight on 12/29.

The third deal is for a SanDisk 8GB Micro SDHC memory card. This memory card is used on many mobile phones as well as mant other devices. The memory card is NEW and only cost $9.99 (plus $5.99 S&H). This deal, just like the others, will expire at Midnight on 12/29. Check it out and get yours HERE.

The fourth deal today is a Freebie! Get your Ultra High Resolution Multicoated UV Filter for Cameras for FREE (just pay $3.99 for S&H). With 13 different sizes to choose from (25mm - 77mm) you will be able to find the right size. Get yours HERE before this deal expires at Midnight on 12/29.

Just a reminder about our giveaways....

Hey everyone!  Just a friendly reminder that we have TWO giveaways going on right now!

One is for a $25 BJ's gift card (click here to enter) and the other is for a Progresso Prize Pack, stuffed with lots of good things to help you make a delicous meal (click here to enter)!

Both are being held until this Thursday, December 30, 2009 at 10am.  Make sure to enter if you are interested - we would love for you to win!! : )

Good luck!

P.S.  A HUGE change is coming to ThriftyGrl...and with it, another giveaway : )  Stay tuned for more information on this site-changing update! : )

Attention NC residents - HUGE deal on The News & Observer Newspaper!!

If you are anything like me, then you LOVE to read the paper - and get all the coupons that come with it!  I was bummed to see that our NC paper - The News & Observer, raised it's rates this year to $195 a year!  That is A LOT of money!!!  The good news is that now through January 30, 2010, the N&O is offering a HUGE discount for households without an active subscription.  The prices being offered are as follows:

Monday - Sunday Subscription:

• $100 for 52 weeks (normally $195)
• $50 for 26 weeks (normally $97.50)
• $25 for 13 weeks (normally $48.75)

Friday - Sunday Subscription:

• 
  
  $80 for 52 weeks (normally $150)
• $40 for 26 weeks (normally $75)
• $20 for 13 weeks (normally $37.50)

I can personally vouch that these are some of the lowest prices I have EVER seen!

Want to subscribe?  Click here to visit their website and make sure to use code SCWINTER.

Disclaimer on subscription card readers:  Offer good only to households without an active subscription.  Offer not valid for mail delivery.  Prices subject to change during term.  Payment must be made within 14 days of subscription start for discounted rate to apply.  The N&O reserves the right to refuse service to anyone.  Offer expires 1/30/10.  Questions?  See site for more info!

LHJ Magazine: Just $5.99 a year!

Are you a fan of Ladies Home Journal Magazine?  If so, then listen up!  They are currently offering a 1 year subscription (for yourself or to give to someone else) for only $5.99 a year! 

Interested?  Thisdeal is being offered on their website... you can get it by clicking here.

Health Magazine Deals - Over a dozen FREE downloads and a year subscrition for only $5!

Health Magazine has partnered up with Amazon to bring you some great deals! 

Per Amazon,

"The editors of Health magazine want you to start the New Year off right. To help you slim down, tone up, and feel energetic and beautiful this year, they're offering up over a dozen downloads featuring all kinds of great tips and tricks, free to Amazon.com customers.
Plus, if you subscribe this week, you'll also receive a free bonus--the All You Guide to Health and Fitness. It's 120 pages full of tips and tricks to help you accomplish your health and fitness goals in 2010. Get real, attainable solutions that give you the tools you need to be the best and healthiest you can be.

Have a happy and healthy new year!"

If you are interested in purchasing the magazine subscription, please note that the $5 subscription offer expires January 2.

 Click here to visit their website and get more info!

Deal Alert: Parenting (School Years) Magazine $2.99 for a two year suscription!!

Tanga Magazines is currently offering Parenting (School Years) Magazine for only $2.99 for two years when you use the coupon code 1b62 at checkout. When you go to the main page, the price will come up at $29.99, but after you enter the code, $2.99 for two years is a heck of a deal!This deal will only be around for today (12/28) only so get yours while you can! Click here to check it out and don't forget to use the coupon code 1b62 at checkout!

ThriftyGuy's Deal of the Day

The first deal is for the SAKAR model OSA-SEB Noise Cancelling Earbuds. These headphones will work with any iPod, MP3 player, CDplayer, portable DVD player, and Laptop.These earbuds are FREE, all you will have to pay is $4.99 for shipping. Click Here to check them out. This deal will expire at Midnight on 12/28.

The second deal is for the Formation model CEW040 Wireless Speaker System. Simply plug in your iPod, TV, DVD, PC or Home Theatre System into the transmitter and the wireless speaker will play the audio up to 30 feet away from the transmitter. The wireless speaker system is only $7.99 (plus 4.99 for S&H). Click Here to check them out. This deal will expire at Midnight on 12/28.

The next deal is for the Magna Pro Magnetic Tool Holder. Simply attach the tool holder to the ladder, around your waist, or even to your wrist. This tool holder will not just hold your nails and screws, but it is also strong enough to hold some tools. The Magna Pro Magnetic Tool Holder is only $5.99 (add $5.99 for S&H). Click Here to get yours and watch the video, it's pretty funny. This deal will expire at Midnight on 12/28.

One was great, but how about ANOTHER giveaway??? Enter to win an AWESOME Progresso Prize Pack!

The New Year is sneaking up on us quickly and ThriftyGuy and I have themed it, "New Year, New You."  We want to try to be as healthy as possible, both when it comes to exercise and eating healthy.  Our goal is to eat right - but we also want our diet to consist of a variety of delicious foods.

Recently, MyBlogSpark and Progresso gave me a wonderful opportunity, which will help with our goals for the New Year.  They sent me prize pack conisisting of the following:  Progresso panko, a carton of Progresso broth, a measuring cup, slotted spoon, soup ladle and a sheet pan for baking (talk about an AWESOME prize pack!)  It also included a Progresso Soups & More recipe book, which featured delicous recipes (including some that used the panko bread crumbs!) 

ThriftyGuy and I used our set to make (healthy) delicous chicken - cooked in the broth and then breaded with panko and a variety of seasonings we threw together from the kitchen - Yummmm!!!

Intrigued by the idea of using panko and broth?  Here is some helpful and interesting information from MyBlogSpark regarding these great products!

If you’re looking for some helpful cooking tips and exciting new recipes, visit Progressofoods.com and Progressobroth.com for celebrity chef Michael Chiarello’s expertise on casual weekend entertaining, preparing a holiday feast or inspiration for a weeknight meal - all using Progresso panko bread crumbs and Progresso broth.

If you’ve never cooked with panko before, now is your chance because it’s never been easier. Progresso’s panko is a flaky bread crumb which adds a light crispiness to your food and is available in two flavors, plain and Italian.

Progresso broths are 100% natural and use high quality ingredients to achieve a great homemade taste. They are fat free, gluten free, contain no preservatives, no added MSG and no artificial flavors. Progresso broth is available in chicken and reduced sodium chicken and beef flavors.

Chef Michael Chiarello appears daily on the Food Network and can also be seen on Top Chef Masters. In addition, he runs and owns Bottega Restaurant in Napa Valley, CA. Below are just a few of Chef Chiarello’s tips to help you create quick, flavorful meals you and your family will enjoy.

Sample Panko Tips:
· Breading 1-2-3: Panko adds the perfect light crunch to fish fillets, chicken breasts and pork chops. Dip in flour, then beaten egg and coat both sides in Panko before frying or baking
· Faux Fried: Instead of frying, bake Panko-coated chicken in a 400F oven for 20 minutes to get the same crispy crunch without the fat

Sample Broth Tips:
· Give New Life to Leftovers: Time in the fridge can steal moisture and flavor; drizzle a little broth over last night’s pasta or casserole before reheating
· Better than H20: Water adds moisture, not flavor; replace water with broth when you cook potatoes, rice and grains

Check out ProgressoFoods.com and ProgressBroth.com for additional tips, recipes and videos from chef Chiarello. There is even a great recipe for Oven-Fried Chicken Tenders which both kids and adults will enjoy – we hope you’ll try it out and let us know what you think.

Also available on ProgressoFoods.com is a coupon for $1.00*off any two Progresso products (excluding Soup and Broth) . At ProgressoBroth.com you’ll find a coupon for $.50 off a package of broth (this coupon is also located on ProgressoFoods.com!)

I like these products for several reasons:  they are inexpensive (especially with the coupons!!), easy to use, and a healthy way to make your meals taste delicious!

Want to win the SAME prize pack that I did (the one pictured above that includes Progresso panko, a carton of Progresso broth, a measuring cup, slotted spoon, soup ladle and a sheet pan for baking)? 

Here's how to enter:

Giveaway Details: We will be giving away the Progresso Prize Pack to a verified email subscriber via random number generator. Giveaway starts as this is posted and ends Thursday, December 31, 2009 at 10:00AM EST (you must be a verified email subscriber by that time to be entered to win). One entry per email subscriber for the “First Entry” Form. The number of additional entries you are eligible for depends on how many of the “Additional Entries” items you complete. (See full list below). Entering falsified information/fake additional entries will immediately null and void all of your entries and remove you from the contest. The email address you sign up with on the entry form must be the same as the email address used to subscribe to ThriftyGrl with. The winner of the giveaway will be notified immediately following the close of the contest. The winner will need to respond by Friday, January 1, 2010 at 2:00PM EST, or they will forfeit the prize and another winner will be drawn. Sorry, but this giveaway is for U.S. residents only.

How to become an email subscriber:
In the upper right hand corner under the title "Subscribe", enter your email address. You will receive a confirmation email and it is VERY important that you click the link in the email to confirm your subscription (otherwise you are not actually signed up and therefore not eligible for the contest). If you have additional questions about being a verified subscriber, click HERE to read a previous post about it.

**You must be a verified email subscriber to enter this giveaway.

First Entry:



Additional Entries:
 For additional entries:
     1. Visit ThriftyGrl's Twitter page here and become a fan!
     2. ReTweet ThriftyGrl's giveaway on Twitter!
             Example: RT @ThriftyGrlJ AWESOME Progresso Prize Pack Giveaway from ThriftyGrl! Enter 2 win by 12/31. http://tinyurl.com/ya8xhlh
     3. Visit ThriftyGrl's Facebook page here and become a fan!
     4. Place a message about the giveaway on your Facebook wall.
          Example: AWESOME Progresso Prize Pack Giveaway from ThriftyGrl! Enter 2 win by 12/31. http://tinyurl.com/ya8xhlh
     5. Blog about the giveaway and leave me a link to it.
     6. Add ThriftyGrl to your blogroll.



**Thanks again to Progresso who provided me with the free product, information, and prize pack through MyBlogSpark™.  Also a big thanks to MyBlogSpark for allowing us to hold this giveaway!  Good luck readers - this is a great prize to win!!

Announcing our next giveaway... $25 Gift Card to BJ's!!

I have never belonged to a big wholesale club but have always wondered if paying the membership fees were worth it.  Recently I was able to see for myself what they have to offer:  BJ’s Wholesale Club and General Mills provided me with a free trial membership, gift card, coupons and information through MyBlogSpark.  What an awesome opportunity! 

On my first visit to BJ's, I was overwhelmed at everything they have to offer - you would never need to shop at another store again!  I was nervous that big warehouse clubs don't offer the same type of sales that regular stores do and that I wouldn't be able to use coupons at them - boy was I wrong about both!  They run some GREAT sales and you can use up to TWO coupons per item:  a BJ's coupon PLUS a manufacturer's coupon (unfortunately they do not double or triple, but still, there are savings to be had!)

On our first trip, I was on a mission.  I had my $25 giftcard (thanks to BJ’s Wholesale Club, General Mills, and MyBlogSpark) along with some Christmas money from my parents.  My mission?  A 32 inch HDTV for our bedroom (ours has seen it's better days, but you all know me - I will wait and suffer until the right deal comes along!  And thankfully it finally did!)  ThriftyGuy and I found some great deals there but were in absolute awe over the deal we ended up getting.  They had a Sony Bravia 32 inch HDTV on sale for $379!!!  That, paired with the $25 gift card, made it a deal we couldn't refuse!  **I would like to add that this same exact TV is on sale right now at Target for $449.  So I would say that we got one heck of a deal!

Our next trip was more food related.  We are pretty well stocked, but wanted to see what we could get for our money.  BJ's has multiple sheets of coupons located by their customer service desk, along with the stack they had sent me in the mail.  And of course we lugged our huge coupon book with us (which really tickled the guy standing at the front of the store - he couldn't believe how huge and organized it was and kept wanting to look at it, lol.)  We found so many good deals that day, including the following:

• Banana's:  3lbs for $1.93!
• Solo cups:  136 for $1.99 (after BJ's and manufacturer coupon)!
• Pistachio's (already shelled):  1 lb for $5.99 (after coupons)
• Downy Fabric Softener:  Two bottles of 174 loads each for a total $17.98 
• Meat:  They were having numerous sales on their meat!
• And finally:  Lobser Bisque.  I must mention this because ThriftyGuy and I appreciate a good, fresh lobster bisque and they offer it! : )

**Important Note: I know the Downy Fabric Softener price sounds expensive, but consider this. Harris Teeter currently has bottles of (40 load) Downy on sale for $5.49. BJ's price was $11.99 for 174 loads (normal every day price; they are also currently offering a $6 off 2 bottles of Downy coupon in store).  If you do the math, the Harris Teeter deal comes out to $0.14/load. The BJ's deal is actually cheaper, coming in at $0.05/load! Doesn't sound like much, but it adds up!!  If you really are looking to compare them at their regular prices, the normal Harris Teeter price ($5.99/40 loads) comes out to $0.15/load.  One bottle (174 loads) of BJ's Downy (priced at $11.99) is still only $0.07/load - and that's an EVERY DAY price!

There were so many other good deals:  soap, shampoo, face wash, razors.  All products were already at a good price, but when paired with 2 coupons were great deals!  Also if you go, be sure to check out some of the new items from General Mills:

• Nature Valley Nut Clusters – 100% Natural, bite-sized clusters with granola, nuts and a touch of honey – and a resealable package which makes it great for sharing
• Progresso High-Fiber Soups – This 6-pack of soup is a great way to get your fiber with the great taste you know and love from Progresso
• Green Giant Complete Skillet Meal – A convenient and great tasting solution for a quick and delicious dinner for the family
• Pillsbury “Big Deluxe” Chocolate Chip Tub – Perfect for entertaining or as an everyday treat

I do want to note that BJ's is currently offering a FREE 2 month trial membership (you must activate it by 12/31).  Click here to print the coupon for yours.  I am very happy to say that unlike other clubs, you do NOT have to pay a penalty fee (like an extra 10%) if you are not a member when you checkout.  The trial membership acts as an actual membership for those 2 months - so you can enjoy all the amenities that a regular member does!

If you decide that you want to continue to save money on great products for longer than the trial period, ask an associate at the club about how to take advantage of the special new-member offer for $45, which includes a $10 coupon and an extra two months of membership (for a total of 14 months!). If you sign up for the offer, you also will receive:

• A Member Savings Book with more than $1,000 in coupons and instant rebates
• “Sign up and Save” coupons worth $117 in savings
• 2 cards (one for you and someone else in your household)
• A no risk 100% money back guarantee on the fee if you are not satisfied

*Note:  New Member offer can vary by Club.

Want to see where there's a BJ's closest to you?  Click here to locate your nearest club.

Want to win a $25 gift card to BJ's courtesy of BJ’s Wholesale Club, General Mills, and MyBlogSpark?
Here's how to enter to win:

Giveaway Details: We will be giving away one $25 BJ's Gift Card to a verified email subscriber via random number generator. Contest starts as this is posted and ends Thursday, December 31, 2009 at 10:00AM EST (you must be a verified email subscriber by that time to be entered to win). One entry per email subscriber for the “First Entry” Form. The number of additional entries you are eligible for depends on how many of the “Additional Entries” items you complete. (See full list below). Entering falsified information/fake additional entries will immediately null and void all of your entries and remove you from the contest. The email address you sign up with on the entry form must be the same as the email address used to subscribe to ThriftyGrl with. The winner of the giveaway will be notified immediately following the close of the contest. The winner will need to respond by Friday, January 1, 2010 at 2:00PM EST, or they will forfeit their prize and another winner will be drawn. Sorry, but this giveaway is for U.S. residents only.

How to become an email subscriber:
In the upper right hand corner under the title "Subscribe", enter your email address. You will receive a confirmation email and it is VERY important that you click the link in the email to confirm your subscription (otherwise you are not actually signed up and therefore not eligible for the contest). If you have additional questions about being a verified subscriber, click HERE to read a previous post about it.

**You must be a verified email subscriber to enter this giveaway.

First Entry:


Additional Entries:
 For additional entries:
     1. Visit ThriftyGrl's Twitter page here and become a fan!
     2. ReTweet ThriftyGrl's giveaway on Twitter!
             Example: RT @ThriftyGrlJ $25 BJ's Gift Card Giveaway from ThriftyGrl! Enter 2 win by 12/31. http://tinyurl.com/y8wctz6
     3. Visit ThriftyGrl's Facebook page here and become a fan!
     4. Place a message about the giveaway on your Facebook wall.
          Example: $25 BJ's Gift Card Giveaway from ThriftyGrl! Enter to win by 12/31. http://tinyurl.com/y8wctz6
     5. Blog about the giveaway and leave me a link to it.
     6. Add ThriftyGrl to your blogroll.

**Thanks again to BJ’s Wholesale Club and General Mills who provided me with a free trial membership, gift card, coupons and information through MyBlogSpark.  Also a big thanks to MyBlogSpark for allowing us to hold this giveaway!
Good luck readers - this is a great prize to win!!  : )

 

ThriftyGuy's Deal of the Day

The first Freebie you may remember back from 11/28. Well this deal is back again! This deal is for the GGI model FMLE01 FM radio transmitter. This is a very simple to use transmitter that will play music from your iPod or MP3 player and plays it through your car radio or home stereo. It offers four radio stations to choose from (106.7, 107.1, 107.5, 107.9) so make sure one of those stations in your area come in as static, or this unit may not work for you. I purchased one like this for ThriftyGrl for long road trips and see loves it, it sure beats channel surfing. The FM radio transmitter is FREE today, all you have to pay is $4.99 for shipping. Click Here to check it out. This deal will expire at Midnight EST on 12/27!

The next Freebie is for a USB AC Power Adapter. Simply plug the adapter into the wall and plug in any USB device and it will charge it for you. This will work out get when you are on the go and do not have a computer near by. The USB wall charger is FREE today, all you have to pay is $4.74 for shipping. Click Here to check it out. This deal will expire at 10:00 EST on 12/28 or when their stock runs out, whichever comes first!

Old Navy Weekly coupon locations posted!

Old Navy Weekly updated either late last night or early this morning. We were unable to get the $50 off a $100 purchase coupon this week, but I am sure we will have more to come in the future. Listed below is where you can find all of the coupon locations. The coupons are good until 1/7/10. Happy Shopping!

• $5 off $25 purchase - Click on Heather's picture to get on her page and give her 5 stars
• $10 off $50 purchase - Click on Josh's picture to get on his page and give him 5 stars
• $15 off $75 purchase - From anyone's page, click on the star before the words New Years New Look
• 10% off purchase - Click on Josh's picture to get on his page and click on the Sweatshirts
• 15% off one kids item - Click on Kimmy's picture to get on her page and click on the Graphic Hoodies
• 15% off purchase - Click on Kimmy's picture to get on her page and give her 4 stars
• 20% off purchase - Click on Kelly's right thigh (left on the screen)
• $50 off $100 purchase - Click on Heather's picture to get on her page and give her 5 stars, then click on Josh's picture to get on his page and give him 5 stars, and then click on Kelly's necklace

FREE Veterinary Exam for your pet!

Yep, you guessed it.  That's our little ThriftyDog - Rita. 

Can you tell she's spoiled?  : )

If you have a pet, then you know that keeping up with their veterinary care is a necessity - although it can be very expensive!  Banfield, which is the name of the Vet Clinic at Petsmart, is offering a FREE New Pet exam!  It's easy:  Complete a quick form for instant access to a printable coupon. Then print and bring the coupon to your pet's first scheduled exam at your local Banfield, and the exam is FREE!

Click here to get your coupon now!

What's your New Year's Resolution? FREE 2 Week pass to 24 Hour Fitness!

With the New Year sneaking up on us, I know that many people resolve to be healthier, exercise more, and lose weight.  Well, if you are one of those people and want to try out a gym, 24 Hour Fitness is currently offering a FREE, 2 week pass to it's facilities!  You can choose from over 400 clubs, access a variety of amenities, and try free group exercise classes! 

Interested? 

Click here for more info and to get your FREE pass now!

Heads Up: Bath and Body Works Semi-Annual Sale!

I know that everyone is pretty fond of the Bath and Body Works Semi-Annual Sale, where you can save up to 75% off.  Well, wait no longer ThriftyGrl readers - it is here!  You can start shopping the deals online TODAY or in store beginning tomorrow!  I got a flyer in the mail announcing the following special deals:

• Bath & Body Works Classic Fragrances Body Lotion for $3 (save $6.50; offer valid December 27 - 30)
• Anti-Bacterial Hand Soaps for $3 (save up to $2; does not specify valid dates)
• Wallflowers Plug-In Diffuser Starter Sets & Refills $5 each (save $7.50; valid December 31 - January 3)
• Mix & Match:  Buy 2 Get 2 Free (choose from Aromatherapy, Odor Eliminating Home Fragrance, and True Blue Spa; save up to $50!  Valid January 4 - 10)

To find more great deals and offers, click Here!

Note:  I have not come across any printable coupons that are still good at this point in time (they have all expired and I don't know of any new ones).  Hopefully you have some left from in store purchases or from the bottom of your receipt to pair with these sales!  That would make for some REALLY great deals!!

On the twenty sixth day of December, Old Navy Weekly gave to me...

A coupon for 15% off your purchase!

Old Navy Weekly has reset the Winter Funderland Edition of their page! Each day in December they will have a different offer. This week's Item of the Week is for Women's 5-Pocket Jeans for $19. Today's (12/26) coupon location is listed below.
To get today's coupon, click on the present labeled "December 26". When the picture pops up, watch the video. Then your coupon for 15% off any kids item will pop up!

Day after Christmas shopping deals : )

Hey everyone!  I know it's been a little while since I've been on (big thanks to ThriftyGuy for filling in for me since I have been working and we have had family visiting!!)  Thanks again for all of the birthday and holiday wishes that have been pouring in!  You guys are the best!  : )

Anyway, on to today's events:  ThriftyGuy and I got up at the crack of dawn this morning (4:45am - no joke!) to hit up some stores and try to get some good deals.  Here's what we found...

Old Navy opened at 6am (which was our first stop).  There are some good deals there (although I was hoping for more discounts and more inventory - some items were picked over with limited sizes left).  They are having a 60% off sale on select items throughout the store.  And of course don't forget to hit up the clearance section - ours was FULL of stuff!  All in all, we got some great deals (including adult jeans - which are all on sale for $15 today!  Kids are only $10!)  And it was really fun to look around the store and randomly give away a $50 off $100 coupon!!  I found two new friends (one of which is a reader from Boise, ID - what are the odds?) who was shopping with her friend; both were very excited to get the coupon!  Congrats girls - I hope you were able to buy some great stuff with it!! : )

Our next stop was at Michael's, where they have already discounted items up to 60% as well.  This is especially great if you want to stock up on holiday crafts or decorations for next year!  Note:  Make sure to take a 40% off coupon with you in case you find a regular priced item you want to use it on.  Don't have one?  Click here to print one now! 

Our last stop before heading home (so that we could post the Old Navy coupon giveaway : ) was to Target.  The $1.00 section had a bunch of stuff discounted at 50% off.  The store didn't look to busy/crowded until we turned the corner to the Holiday Section and OMG(!)  It looked like the day after Thanksgiving!  People were everywhere, scrambling to get discounted items (all holiday items are 50%) off.  One hit were Oreo cookies, which were ringing up at $1.39 a package (ThriftyGuy wants me to note that they are regular and NOT double stuffed, but that didn't seem to stop people from GRABBING them off the shelves!  Imagine if you had a coupon to use with that sale!!)  There were aisles and aisles full of great discounted items - lots to look at.  I was bummed to see that all of the Queen flannel sheets (on sale for $10) were gone.  There were plenty of holiday treats and goodies as well as decorations, cards, and gifts left!

Well, that about sums up our finds this morning.  I wanted to be sure to alert you all that there are some good deals to be had out there.  Make sure to take your coupon books with you (depending on where you are headed) and be careful!  There are tons of people out shopping today - all in a mad search for a good deal!  : )

If I come across anymore deals, I will let you know....  If you come across any, feel free to leave a comment and share it with the rest of us!  : ) 

Hope you all have a great day!

ThriftyGuy's Freebie of the Day

Today's Freebie is for the Ped Egg. You may remember this post back from 11/19. Well if you mised out on it then, or want another one, now is your second chance! This little device will help to remove calluses and dead skin on your feet without any effort and zero pain! On top of that, there is no mess to clean up because all of the shavings are collected inside of it. You can buy it here for the very low price of FREE, all you will have to do is pay for shipping ($5.99) and it is yours! This deal will expire at midnight on 12/26!

And the (Old Navy Coupon) Winners Are....

The Old Navy Coupon Giveaways have officially ended and we have our winners!

Congratulations to Lindsay N.

(random number 23)

&

Congratulations to Carol D.!

(random number 66)

You will see an email in your inbox titled, "Congratulations ThriftyGrl Old Navy winner!" There is nothing to verify or do Bethany - simply print and use your coupon! Remember that it expires today!

Again, congratulations!!!

As for the rest of you, stay tuned for the upcoming Old Navy Weekly reset, where hopefully we'll have some more coupons to give away!

Merry Christmas from ThriftyGrl

ThriftyGrl and I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas.

ThriftyGuy's Freebies and other Deals for Christmas

The first Freebie is for the Stafford model ST3889 food slicer and peeler. This easy to use set includes a hand guard so you will be much less likely to hurt yourself while slicing food. All you will have to pay is $4.99 for shipping and handling. This deal will expire at Midnight EST on 12/25. Click here to get yours today.

Want to add a little holiday spirit near your computer at home or at work? The second Freebie is for a lighted Christmas Tree that you can plug into any USB port. This cool tree ships to you for the low price of $5.90. This deal will expire at Midnight EST on 12/25. Click here to get yours today.

The next Freebie is for the Spic and Span Microfiber Dusting and Polishing Cloth. These microfiber cloths are scratch and streak free, lint free, reusable, and are machine washable! Shipping cost will vary (to ship to me was $3.99). This deal will expire at Midnight EST on 12/25. Click here to get yours today.

Another Freebie I found would be a great gag gift. Have fun changing the channel on someones TV without the remote. This little universal remote attaches to your keychain and will provide you with lots of entertainment.This remote ships to you for the low price of $4.99. This deal will expire at Midnight EST on 12/25. Click here to get yours today.

The next deal I found is for a pair of Nintendo Wii Boxing Gloves. These boxing gloves will help to better simulate the boxing games and make them more realistic. This pair of gloves are only $5.99 and the ship for FREE. This deal will expire at Midnight EST on 12/25. Click here to get yours today.

The last Freebie I have for today is from Taco Bell. Taco Bell is giving away a Free Fresco Taco. The coupon will be good for either seven days from the time you printed it or once 1 million tacos are given away. Click here to get your free taco!