Author Topic: What small things did you do TODAY to save money? (Read 8356945 times)

dandarc · « **Reply #3300 on:** May 04, 2015, 04:40:58 PM »

One blood

midweststache · « **Reply #3301 on:** May 04, 2015, 05:18:39 PM »

Ate lunch out and felt really bad that I gave into my Broccoli Cheese soup craving, so I made eight veggie burritos that I threw in the freezer, and had the leftover filling for dinner tonight. Now I have no excuse to not eat at home for the next week and a half! (These burritos are on top of this week's dinner meal plan, all vegetarian.)

BF is out of town for work, so we switched transit passes. He has my pay-per-use pass, which he *might* need when he gets back in town, while I have his unlimited pass in case I decided to run errands out of the neighborhood (like getting my stupid license renewed... ugh).

Kept the lights off all day today; opened windows for light instead. Also prolonging use of the AC--just keeping windows open and an upright fan going. I'll be OK; the BF is less heat-tolerant, so this may eventually give once he gets back from traveling.

2ndTimer · « **Reply #3302 on:** May 04, 2015, 05:43:54 PM »

Clipped and shared a coupon for the kind of ice cream bars my neighbor likes. Got to keep that frugal network humming! Came home and baked four dozen corn and sausage muffins. They freeze well.

Kwill · « **Reply #3303 on:** May 04, 2015, 05:56:08 PM »

I bought a pork picnic shoulder yesterday because it was on sale for $1.19 per pound, which seemed pretty good for any sort of meat in this area. I saved 5 cents by turning in a bottle for the deposit. I don't drink soda, but a friend left the bottle in my recycling when she visited. I didn't know what to do with the pork, but I found a slow cooker recipe today that I was very happy with. I think the leftovers will probably make lots of lunches this week.

I also googled around to find a cheaper drycleaners and got a coupon discount, too.

Singularity · « **Reply #3304 on:** May 04, 2015, 09:02:02 PM »

Quote from: dandarc on May 04, 2015, 01:44:54 PM

Not strictly saving money, but donating blood after work today. I'm a couple weeks late on that, and got a text that they'll give a free movie ticket with a donation today. So between that and the $10 gift card received for donating a couple months ago, the wife and I will be having a < $5 movie date sometime this month.

Check if you can donate Plasma for money. Here they are offering $110 for your first 2 donations of plasma (including online coupon).

lunahsol · « **Reply #3305 on:** May 04, 2015, 10:50:23 PM »

My "smoothie packs" contain a handful or so of baby spinach, half a banana, one carrot (chopped), about 6 strawberries and 2 cups of water (sub 1 cup of water for some soy yogurt if I have it, which is not often). Also, misc berries (fresh or frozen) if I have them. Put into the blender (Vitamix) and give a whirl. The "packs" consist of all of the ingredients (except the water/yogurt) put into a ziploc and into the freezer. Plus, the freezer gives the fixins a nice consistency when blended without adding ice.

Convenience is key. These are easy to grab and throw into the blender without the need to chop and portion out every morning. I am way more likely to make these if I put the contents into a baggie in advance. It is super healthy and saves a ton of cash.

My bucks saved for today may not be super impressive, but . . .
* no money spent
* homemade lunch and work-provided coffee
* no extra driving

Rural · « **Reply #3306 on:** May 05, 2015, 03:50:03 AM »

Did not spend part of the grocery gift card which was my office holiday gift this winter on precooked rice as I was tempted to do. Instead I bought spices and "exotic" ingredients I can't get near home as I planned to do and then went home and cooked up two pounds of brown rice. We ate one portion with supper and I put five meal-sized portions in the freezer, all for the cost of one (insufficient) pack of precooked rice.

Pooperman · « **Reply #3307 on:** May 05, 2015, 05:05:34 AM »

Took advantage of the fact that I live in NJ to get free money. The casinos have online versions and they run bonus money promotions every now and then. Most are not worth it (I.e deposit money then get bonus and wager 25x the deposit to get the bonus payout). Sometimes though, you've got a 50/50 on getting something out of it. Today is cinco de mayo. The borgata is running a promotion where they will give you some amount of bonus money from $1-$1000. I got $15. The rules were wager that amount in a single bet and get whatever you win, if anything. Not my money, give it a try any ways, so I originally thought I had to wager $15 in total, not in one go, so I had made several small bets, one of which ended up getting me to $120 or so. I realized that I had to make the big bet. So I did and lost (it was $25 since I wouldn't find a smaller one). Ended up taking out about $95 in money I didn't have before.

I can say with 100% certainty that I've made money at casinos. I never bet my own money in this sort of thing except for one time which was the first time I went to a casino during college. My town had one and I was curious enough to spend $20. It was boring. Anyways, about $200 out of the casinos so far. For anyone who lives in NJ, take a look at the casino promotions. Free money.

dandarc · « **Reply #3308 on:** May 05, 2015, 06:23:23 AM »

Quote from: Singularity on May 04, 2015, 09:02:02 PM

Quote from: dandarc on May 04, 2015, 01:44:54 PM
Not strictly saving money, but donating blood after work today. I'm a couple weeks late on that, and got a text that they'll give a free movie ticket with a donation today. So between that and the $10 gift card received for donating a couple months ago, the wife and I will be having a < $5 movie date sometime this month.

Check if you can donate Plasma for money. Here they are offering $110 for your first 2 donations of plasma (including online coupon).

Good tip for others. I'm on the double-red-cell list due to blood type - doubt they would pay me for the plasma. On a side note, double-red-cell is awesome - I always feel better afterwards. It's like getting a gatorade shot right up your arm.

MountainGal · « **Reply #3309 on:** May 05, 2015, 12:54:24 PM »

Lately I:

~Used an ecoupon for a free treat for DH, and $1 off two Mother's Day cards
~Used my value card to save .10/gallon at the pump
~Stocked up on supplies at Sam's Club
~Compiled errands while in the big city after attending a peaceful protest
~Batch cooked a pork roast for nachos, sandwiches and enchiladas, boiled eggs and made a Cheesy Chili Spaghetti Squash Casserole
~Made homemade cheesecake
~Have been using vinegar and baking soda instead of buying expensive, stinky cleaning products
~Have been bringing my usual filtered water, coffee, breakfasts, lunches and snacks to the office
~Am taking Friday off which saves on fuel :D

4alpacas · « **Reply #3310 on:** May 05, 2015, 01:11:37 PM »

Quote from: dandarc on May 05, 2015, 06:23:23 AM

Quote from: Singularity on May 04, 2015, 09:02:02 PM
Quote from: dandarc on May 04, 2015, 01:44:54 PM
Not strictly saving money, but donating blood after work today. I'm a couple weeks late on that, and got a text that they'll give a free movie ticket with a donation today. So between that and the $10 gift card received for donating a couple months ago, the wife and I will be having a < $5 movie date sometime this month.

Check if you can donate Plasma for money. Here they are offering $110 for your first 2 donations of plasma (including online coupon).
Good tip for others. I'm on the double-red-cell list due to blood type - doubt they would pay me for the plasma. On a side note, double-red-cell is awesome - I always feel better afterwards. It's like getting a gatorade shot right up your arm.

I looked into doing the double red blood cell donation, but I don't qualify (my weight < 150). I do try to donate blood when the Red Cross comes to my workplace. The last few times I scored a coupon for a free pint from Baskin Robbins. Since I live a few blocks from a Baskin Robbins, it's a great excuse to go for a walk and get ice cream.

Today I packed my lunch, snacks, and breakfast.
I been drinking water and a LOT of tea.
I carpooled to work.
I showered at the gym.

Rheagar · « **Reply #3311 on:** May 05, 2015, 01:36:18 PM »

I just changed cell phone providers from ATT to Consumer Cellular. ATT was 100/month for 2 lines, unlimited voice/text, and 3GB data. Now we are paying 60/month for 2 lines, unlimited text, 750 talk minutes, and 3GB data.

That's 40 bucks a month in savings and they even use ATT's network, so it should be absolutely no different. And to top it all off my employer reimburses me 100/month for a cell plan, so I'm essentially getting paid 40 bucks a month for our family cell plan!

Ysera · « **Reply #3312 on:** May 05, 2015, 02:10:59 PM »

I've stopped buying myself chips and crackers for snacks. I've always known they were unhealthy and loaded with preservatives and dyes, but I have a real salt tooth. Lately I've been making my own corn tortilla crisps in my counter top oven using canola oil and salt. They taste fantastic, are great for dipping, are more filling, and I can't eat them as mindlessly as chips in a bag since they need to be prepared. I bought a bag of 100 corn tortillas at Costco for $3.99. That's less than a bag of Tostidos at my local grocery store! My husband loves them, too.

PJ · « **Reply #3313 on:** May 05, 2015, 03:55:56 PM »

Yesterday, I attended a leadership breakfast. For some reason (usually they're full or close to it) a number of people didn't show up. So I had half a bagel with cream cheese and a delicious variety of fruit for breakfast, then, agreed to take enough leftovers (a pastry, more fruit) to serve as my lunch. I ate in the car, after a long luxurious visit to one of the bigger libraries that was on my way home. Took out some books, audiobooks, and CDs.

Today, I was running late this morning but made a point of taking the time to eat breakfast before I left for work. Doesn't really take that long to have a cup of tea, and to make some toast. I used some sweet bread that was gifted to me by someone at the church. It was yummy! I also brought my lunch to work today.

midweststache · « **Reply #3314 on:** May 05, 2015, 05:05:12 PM »

Had one of the burritos I froze yesterday for lunch, along with half an avocado that was left in the fridge; delicious! I'm eating them vegetarian, but I can adapt the recipe for chicken burritos so that BF can enjoy too.

For dinner I made a lentil soup that used up half a bunch of kale, a half a small jar of tomato paste, and some older yogurt in the fridge. Also, BF doesn't like lentils all that much, so it's a good meal to make for when he's gone. It'll keep me in lunches for at least another day or two.

Unsubscribed from Target and eBay ads. No more online shopping temptation from these store (also, less digital clutter).

duellingbanjos · « **Reply #3315 on:** May 05, 2015, 07:01:18 PM »

I've taken to packing my work lunches from the veggie drawer of my fridge, and sometimes I add a hardboiled egg. I also drink the free coffee at work and water to rehydrate. I figure I'm saving at least $3-5 a day.

homehandymum · « **Reply #3316 on:** May 05, 2015, 11:03:32 PM »

DH brought home a whole banana box full of bananas at the weekend, because they were super cheap. Today I peeled and froze them into bagged lots for our weekly banana pancake breakfasts

Stachetastic · « **Reply #3317 on:** May 06, 2015, 06:47:26 AM »

Yesterday we hosted family for Cinco de Mayo and served steak fajitas using marked down steak and clearance bell peppers. All the rest of the fixings came from Aldi, and we had ice cream left over from my son's birthday party for dessert.

Today I packed breakfast and lunch, as always.

GardenFun · « **Reply #3318 on:** May 06, 2015, 07:18:47 AM »

Ran out of pop. Made DH lemonade for his morning beverage. Prevented him from stopping at the gas station and paying $1.69 for a bottle.

Joshin · « **Reply #3319 on:** May 06, 2015, 08:38:48 AM »

As always, these are technically from yesterday

* I've figured out how to make most of the family favorites in the crockpot since the over crapped out again, including sloppy joe stuffed rolls (think sloppy joe bierocks). Who knew a crockpot could bake rolls? The bottoms even browned!

* Walked to the store to pick up bananas instead of driving.

* Elder son brought home 10 individual tubs of yogurt, 4 apples, and a dozen oranges yesterday in his backpack. He was at an event that served lunch to the teens and he was shocked at the waste when he saw people tossing these items. He asked and got permission to place a box to collect them by the garbage can, then brought his loot home to share. I'm done proud of that boy!

* harvested some chives and assorted herbs, for both fresh use and drying.

* Younger son set up a container in the freezer to catch the citrus peels coming into the house over the next few months. Candied peels are now the plan for general holiday gift giving!

* I've been battling some skin and thyroid issues lately and the doctor confirmed that I have a wheat allergy yesterday (boo). Fortunately, I'm a low carb, somewhat paleo-ish eater, so the biggest loss for me is the occasional pasta dish, some Asian favorites, and some of my beloved microbrews. So, I spent the evening creating my own personal wheat-free cookbook, which should get rid of any temptation to eat high-priced and overly processed gluten-free convenience foods while I adjust our pantry and eating habits.

* Signed kids up for the free summer bowling program, and put elder son on the lottery list for a local skills clinic being held this summer (he would get to intern with a veterinarian, if he is selected). Staying on top of these freebies breaks up summer monotony and gives my poor homeschooled kids more opportunities ;)

* Wrote the final check for elder's scout leadership camp yesterday, which was 100% from money he earned. As a reward for his hard work, we covered the $30 fee for his Order of the Arrow ordeal camp that is later this summer. Did I mention that I am proud of that kid?

4alpacas · « **Reply #3320 on:** May 06, 2015, 09:39:48 AM »

Quote from: homehandymum on May 05, 2015, 11:03:32 PM

DH brought home a whole banana box full of bananas at the weekend, because they were super cheap. Today I peeled and froze them into bagged lots for our weekly banana pancake breakfasts

So jealous! I mix frozen banana with a little bit of peanut butter and cocoa powder. It's an amazingly sweet ice cream substitute. My husband prefers it without the peanut butter though.

Bracken_Joy · « **Reply #3321 on:** May 06, 2015, 09:40:50 AM »

Quote from: Joshin on May 06, 2015, 08:38:48 AM

* I've been battling some skin and thyroid issues lately and the doctor confirmed that I have a wheat allergy yesterday (boo). Fortunately, I'm a low carb, somewhat paleo-ish eater, so the biggest loss for me is the occasional pasta dish, some Asian favorites, and some of my beloved microbrews. So, I spent the evening creating my own personal wheat-free cookbook, which should get rid of any temptation to eat high-priced and overly processed gluten-free convenience foods while I adjust our pantry and eating habits.

I bet this will turn out to be a blessing in disguise =) If you haven't already, I recommend visiting the "share your paleo badassity" thread.

Kudos on putting together the cookbook. Do you meal plan? If you make a grocery list for each dish it can help, IME.

2ndTimer · « **Reply #3322 on:** May 06, 2015, 10:10:10 AM »

Elder son brought home 10 individual tubs of yogurt, 4 apples, and a dozen oranges yesterday in his backpack. He was at an event that served lunch to the teens and he was shocked at the waste when he saw people tossing these items. He asked and got permission to place a box to collect them by the garbage can, then brought his loot home to share. I'm done proud of that boy!

This boy will go far. He has already learned to run counter to his peer group when they are doing something stupid.

In keeping with the spirit of the thread: Found some slightly freezer burned chicken in the back of the freezer and a little white zinfandel in the pantry. Combined it with the celery a neighbor gave me because she was going out of town and an onion I salvaged from the grocery store vegetable throw outs. Some flour, butter, garlic and spices and we are having a gourmet dinner.

1967mama · « **Reply #3323 on:** May 06, 2015, 02:09:43 PM »

*Continued hanging up laundry on the drying rack inside, since its been rainy/stormy outside

*Made buns for our beef dip for dinner - will make home fries too

*Hand washing dishes sometimes -- goal is to do it more often

Rural · « **Reply #3324 on:** May 06, 2015, 03:04:49 PM »

Gathered a bunch of new blackberry leaves and set them on a cookie sheet on the dash of the car to dehydrate into tea.

lunahsol · « **Reply #3325 on:** May 06, 2015, 07:49:58 PM »

* homemade food for all meals
* no money spent today
* scored a few free books to put up for resale
* did the math on taking the train to work vs. driving (still trying to figure out if it is a change I am willing to make, but at least I am considering it)

MsPeacock · « **Reply #3326 on:** May 06, 2015, 08:26:56 PM »

I made ham sandwiches for dinner even though I really really really super wanted to call for Chinese food delivery.

My kids liked the sandwiches better, too.

I trimmed my poor hot doggy's fur down for the summer w/ clippers rather than paying the groomer $80. I will not be starting a side-gig as a dog groomer.

Erica/NWEdible · « **Reply #3327 on:** May 06, 2015, 11:34:51 PM »

Enjoyed my bday in the best possible way - built a new duckling pen with stuff we had lying around, planted a flat of corn and drank the most delicious homemade hard cider. Dinner? Who knows! Rice and something I think. The best part of birthdays in my family is you get out of chores for a full day! I had what I wanted - eggs and black bean salsa - and everyone else fended for themselves. :)

jengod · « **Reply #3328 on:** May 07, 2015, 12:42:31 AM »

Happy birthday, Erica!

* Made my first-ever curry, adding a new food to my home cooking repertoire. Used homegrown green onions and garlic.
* Took public transport across the wilds of Los Angeles to a laundry-to-landscape greywater workshop. The bus cost money, so did the workshop, and so will a greywater install, but I think the long game qualifies as Mustachian!
* Found a dime on the ground.

Erica/NWEdible · « **Reply #3329 on:** May 07, 2015, 09:59:10 AM »

Thanks! Wow, greywater - in my dream world we retrofit a greywater system but it'd be big money and our water bills aren't as bad up here as for you guys so I think the payoff would be negative. I'm thinking about doing a redneck greywater thing with a siphon and a hose out of my bathroom window so at least bathtub water can be recaptured for ducks. :D

jooles · « **Reply #3330 on:** May 07, 2015, 01:14:15 PM »

Quote from: lunahsol on May 03, 2015, 11:03:16 PM

Hi there, mama!

Well, my prep revolved around whatever was left in my fridge/freezer that needed using up. For my lunches, etc, this week, I made:
- sweet potato/peanut butter soup
- white bean/broccoli soup
- rice milk (to be used in various recipes)
- fried rice with zucchini & orange peppers (and hot peanuts)
- tamales with pintos and (canned) ranchero sauce
- corn bread
- hummus
- smoothie packs (5 of them - spinach, carrot, banana, strawberries)
- mashed potatoes

I am left with at least 5 servings of the soups + cornbread for lunches. I will also have a smoothie to take M-F to work. For dinners, the tamales and fried rice will be staples. I can supplement with the hummus (although, feel like I need something else to serve with it).

My diet is vegan and gluten-free, so probably different than most . . . but if this can provide any inspiration, I am happy to share.

Lunahsol - Thanks for the great meal ideas. I've fallen into a rut. You've lifted me out. BTW - Do you make your own tamale base (the corn part)?

Better Late Than Never · « **Reply #3331 on:** May 07, 2015, 02:18:18 PM »

Gave DH a haircut.

swick · « **Reply #3332 on:** May 07, 2015, 02:35:10 PM »

Having lots of fun experimenting with "travel hacking" in the process discovered when my card got transferred from one bank to another, they downgraded my account (thus earning less miles) but still charged me the higher cards annual fee. I should have been paying more attention. On the bight side, they gave me a very nice bonus to make up for it.

Realized I can buy PC giftcards at extrafoods when I am traveling (and get extra points) and use them at Nofrills which doesn't take visa.

Planning a trip to Portland and found some great groupons for things we were planning on doing anyways.

Organized to be an egg PU location in our town for one of our farmers, so they just have to come to me instead of driving all over town. Free duck eggs!

lunahsol · « **Reply #3333 on:** May 07, 2015, 04:07:42 PM »

Quote from: jooles on May 07, 2015, 01:14:15 PM

BTW - Do you make your own tamale base (the corn part)?

I use Maseca. It is brand of masa harina (corn flour). Just combine the masa with enough water to get the right consistency. I also add a splash of olive oil and sometimes extra spices like cumin or a dash of hot sauce when I mix it up. But just masa & water works if you want to keep it simple.

My list for today:
* received notification from HR at work of some new benefits - need to research more to see how I can maximize them
* went to Target in search of different snacks, but came back empty handed (saving money & calories - yay!)

Ysera · « **Reply #3334 on:** May 07, 2015, 06:23:09 PM »

I didn't stop at McDonald's for iced coffee when running errands today, which I normally crave. I reminded myself how much ice they use and how little actual coffee that gives me for the price. Plus I remember the time I could swear they forgot to put any coffee in it. ("Can I order a large iced milk and sugar to go? Thanks.") So... yeah, not a hard decision. My coffee at home tastes great.

PJ · « **Reply #3335 on:** May 07, 2015, 09:34:54 PM »

Quote from: J Mo on May 07, 2015, 06:23:09 PM

I didn't stop at McDonald's for iced coffee when running errands today, which I normally crave. I reminded myself how much ice they use and how little actual coffee that gives me for the price. Plus I remember the time I could swear they forgot to put any coffee in it. ("Can I order a large iced milk and sugar to go? Thanks.") So... yeah, not a hard decision. My coffee at home tastes great.

I have something pretty similar ... was out and about today around the city and stuck in horrendous traffic on the way home. Was SO thirsty (and desperate for the bathroom at the same time!) Was driving right past a McD's, and yes, iced coffee came to mind. But I knew I'd be driving right past my parents' place a few minutes later, so held off for a bathroom break and glass of water there. The cherry ice cream they were eating for dessert when I arrived at the tail end of dinner hour was just a bonus :-)

Also, am trying to keep a couple of things unplugged (microwave) or turned off (power bar I use with my laptop) when not in used to save those electricity pennies ...

Erica/NWEdible · « **Reply #3336 on:** May 07, 2015, 10:30:04 PM »

Reorg'd leaner meaner freezer. There's space! Amazing!

Today's batch cook from the pantry:
-chickpea, cauliflower and coconut red curry with rice
-smoked portuguese sausage with white beans, tomato and green olives
-braised pork shank with pear preserves
-three kinds of bread (whole wheat kombucha sandwich loaf, whole wheat round turban-type thingie, white flour hamburger buns)

Took fish and burger meat out from freezer to thaw. Fish is a snapper I was traded for eggs.

Worked in garden. Sowed more seeds. Harvested broccoli.

"Supervised" ducklings. Total fair market value of my ducklings is $72, though my interest in keeping them happy and healthy is WAY past the financials.

Didn't buy anything. :)

lunahsol · « **Reply #3337 on:** May 07, 2015, 10:36:17 PM »

Quote from: Erica/NWEdible on May 07, 2015, 10:30:04 PM

"Supervised" ducklings. Total fair market value of my ducklings is $72, though my interest in keeping them happy and healthy is WAY past the financials.

I can't help but wonder how exactly one "supervises" ducklings?! It sounds adorable :) And good for you for giving them a quality life!

TheFixer · « **Reply #3338 on:** May 07, 2015, 10:36:51 PM »

Received new cheapo smartyphone #2 from Ting today, completing our conversion from ATT & VZW dumbphones.
Monthly savings going forward = ~$12.

Bracken_Joy · « **Reply #3339 on:** May 08, 2015, 07:37:40 AM »

Quote from: Erica/NWEdible on May 07, 2015, 10:30:04 PM

whole wheat kombucha sandwich loaf

Oh this sounds good.

2ndTimer · « **Reply #3340 on:** May 08, 2015, 08:07:15 AM »

The Hub has a Friday off. Breakfast out to celebrate? Nope, home brewed coffee and some special pastries gifted by a neighbor. Entertainment provided by the cats.

Spruit · « **Reply #3341 on:** May 08, 2015, 02:28:22 PM »

Yay for finding someone on Marktplaats with the same approximate dress size, taste and location. I restocked my wardrobe quite inexpensively. Only "problem": what do I tell my "normal" highschool friend with whom I was supposed to go shopping tomorrow? Maybe I can convince her to take a look in one of the thrift stores with me. I can still use some other items. Like a cast iron frying pan LOL.

Technically yesterday: took a chance at riding my bike through showery weather and managed to stay dry. Another busticket saved :)
A no-spend day today. Just biking, working, eating homemade breakfast/lunch/dinner. Boring but frugal.

PMG · « **Reply #3342 on:** May 08, 2015, 02:53:07 PM »

I am not walking at graduation tonight. Not spending $70 dollars on robe and cap and tassel. The degree is what I want.

I am finishing my associates at a community college and going directly to a four year school for my bachelors. I'll walk then... Or maybe I'll wait for my masters...

1967mama · « **Reply #3343 on:** May 08, 2015, 03:26:39 PM »

Made a double batch of bread dough today (21 cups of flour) and turned it into 2 pans of buns and a loaf of cinnamon raisin bread. Boiled 16 eggs for sandwich fillings and devilled eggs this weekend. Made a huge chili and a chicken rice soup a few days ago -- they're ready in the freezer. I'm going to visit my adult son (used airline points!) and am leaving food for my husband and kids so they aren't tempted to eat out or order in :-)

handsnhearts · « **Reply #3344 on:** May 08, 2015, 04:57:08 PM »

Walked around target yesterday. Took a couple of pics of things I am considering, and then came home.
Ate leftovers for lunch.
Got a lot done at home, but did't buy anything online.
Listed a few things on craigslist to sell.
Getting ready for a yard sale tomorrow. Added more items I can live without.

3Mer · « **Reply #3345 on:** May 09, 2015, 08:07:39 AM »

I wanted to go get McDonald's last night for dinner. But instead I came home (after visiting the library to get a couple books), and made spaghetti. I wanted to go pick up breadsticks to go with it, but I didn't. I found out that cheap Tastee hamburger buns work great for making garlic bread/toast! I'll not be wasting leftover buns anymore now that I know this works so well.

3Mer · « **Reply #3346 on:** May 09, 2015, 08:11:25 AM »

Quote from: BriarRose111 on May 09, 2015, 08:07:39 AM

I wanted to go get McDonald's last night for dinner. But instead I came home (after visiting the library to get a couple books), and made spaghetti. I wanted to go pick up breadsticks to go with it, but I didn't. I found out that cheap Tastee hamburger buns work great for making garlic bread/toast! I'll not be wasting leftover buns anymore now that I know this works so well.

I guess the buns were generic brand "Essentials" or something. Money saving from a previous day - these buns are cheaper than the bakery buns and we actually like them better. Since we don't eat alot of bread (or rely on it for nutrition), I don't think it really adds anything to get the bakery buns. And like I said, they make amazing garlic toast.

Erica/NWEdible · « **Reply #3347 on:** May 10, 2015, 01:21:52 AM »

Quote from: lunahsol on May 07, 2015, 10:36:17 PM

Quote from: Erica/NWEdible on May 07, 2015, 10:30:04 PM
"Supervised" ducklings. Total fair market value of my ducklings is $72, though my interest in keeping them happy and healthy is WAY past the financials.

I can't help but wonder how exactly one "supervises" ducklings?! It sounds adorable :) And good for you for giving them a quality life!

Well, it's quite involved. You get a cup of coffee and go outside and sit in the sun. THEN you spend like 30 minutes saying stuff like "Awe....." and "Squeee!!!!" while taking about 900 photos, all of which are blurry.

Then, you mutter softly to mama duck that you are not going to hurt any of the babies and very slowly refill the food and water and scrape away any muckiness that's happened under the water (ducks are messy). This takes about 2 minutes.

Then you back away slowly so mama relaxes and go inside to "get some work done" but really just refill your coffee and come back out to watch happy splashing ducklings for another hour.

I recommend specialized training before you try it so the cuteness doesn't make you explode immediately.

wintersun · « **Reply #3348 on:** May 10, 2015, 06:59:55 AM »

Quote

I recommend specialized training before you try it so the cuteness doesn't make you explode immediately.

+1!!!!

2ndTimer · « **Reply #3349 on:** May 10, 2015, 08:29:26 AM »

Quote from: Erica/NWEdible on May 10, 2015, 01:21:52 AM

Well, it's quite involved. You get a cup of coffee and go outside and sit in the sun. THEN you spend like 30 minutes saying stuff like "Awe....." and "Squeee!!!!" while taking about 900 photos, all of which are blurry.

Then, you mutter softly to mama duck that you are not going to hurt any of the babies and very slowly refill the food and water and scrape away any muckiness that's happened under the water (ducks are messy). This takes about 2 minutes.

Then you back away slowly so mama relaxes and go inside to "get some work done" but really just refill your coffee and come back out to watch happy splashing ducklings for another hour.

I recommend specialized training before you try it so the cuteness doesn't make you explode immediately.

Aha, I knew that time at the bird sanctuary watching baby geese had a reason. I am building up my tolerance. And in keeping with the spirit of the thread, the Hub and I pay a whole $15.00/year for the privilege which means our visit yesterday cost us around 25 cents each.

News:

Author Topic: What small things did you do TODAY to save money? (Read 8356945 times)