How I Celebrated The Holidays For Under $500

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  1. Use gift cards received throughout the year. Save gift cards you receive throughout the year and then use them on gifts. I also cashed out points and got gift cards for gifts too. Some of my fave points programs or ways to earn cash:

2. Inventory wrapping paper, decorations, etc. My go-to's for wrapping paper and supplies are buying on clearance the year before. Last year the holiday clearance was sparse, so here are more tips for saving.

Costco and Sam’s Club sell big rolls of wrapping paper that are only $10 each. A really great deal, especially if you wrap a lot of presents.

Hallmark.com also has a Crown Club, sign up for free here. It is easy to earn points and they regularly email $2 coupons and sometimes mail them. Recently I was able to get BOGO wrapping paper plus could use a $5 off coupon, with free shipping.

3. Do Less Baking. Back in the day, our grandmothers made 10 kinds of old-fashioned cookies. Many people no longer have the time to do this. Consider picking one or two holiday favorites. Another way to keep the cookie tradition alive is to host a cookie exchange with friends.

4. Use Payment Plans. If you are short on cash this holiday season, try one of several payment plans that offer options with no interest charged. I have used Klarna, Sezzle and Affirm and have had positive experiences with all of them.

5. Stock up on pantry necessities. For example, Target has had Betty Crocker cookie mixes, Betty Crocker boxed potatoes, and more at really good prices lately. Match up with coupons for more savings.

My go-to for holiday staples are Sam’s Club, Costco, Meijer and Target. My friends also like Aldi’s too for rock bottom prices on basics like flour, sugar and more.

Plus don’t forget online shopping to make life easier! Get started below with free cash to spend on groceries:

6. Shop Early Holiday Sales. Many big-box retailers have started their holiday sales now. Target, Amazon, Best Buy, Sam’s Club and more are offering deals now. Take advantage and avoid supply chain shortages.

7. Taking advantage of $10 off $10 coupons. I received coupons from Kohl’s and JCPenney a few weeks ago which were $10 off $10 any item. I found (2) really nice gifts at both stores and used the coupons.

8. Spend less on stocking stuffers. I had stocked up “end of Christmas sale” last year and am always on the lookout for small gifts. I love the Target Bullseye section for more deals, usually $5 and under.

9. Order holiday cards early. This year I ordered my cards in October. Though it felt weird to order holiday cards before Halloween, I received an awesome Shutterfly deal in my e-mail that I had to use. I received free cards and only paid shipping.

10.Regift…creatively. That’s all I’m going to say. My family might be reading this!

11. Consider only buying gifts for kids. Perhaps for the adults, make handmade gifts- homemade fudge is always a winner!

MORE RESOURCES:

Tips for a Budget Friendly Party

Grandma’s Sugar Cookies

50 Best Christmas Cookies

Pandemic Shortage Items List

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If you can, stock up on stuff you need. The economy might be bumpy going into 2022/3.

  • New Automobiles, Used Vehicles and Parts
  • Arabica Coffee Beans
  • Lumber, Paper Pulp, Toilet Paper, Cardboard, Books.
  • Wheat, barley, beans, peas
  • Gaming consoles and graphics cards
  • HVAC equipment, parts, refrigerant
  • Silicone rubber
  • Appliances
  • Chicken Wings
  • Pool Liners, Chemicals, Chlorine Tabs
  • Drywall
  • Printers and Ink
  • Holiday gifts. If you are shopping for toys especially, I would start looking at the Amazon and Target sales.

Free $5 For Famous Dave's BBQ

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FEATURES AND BENEFITS INCLUDE:

  • A FREE sandwich or burger just for signing up
  • A saucesome gift for your birthday
  • Earn “Bones” to get discounts on future visits
  • Effortlessly order from your phone so your ‘Q is waiting for you
  • Find your nearest Dave’s and receive offers and info

Use my code DianeS1458 and click on https://engagement.punchh.com/b/famousdaves to get an INSTANT $5!

National Ice Cream Day Freebies July 18, 2021

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7-Eleven: The store is celebrating its birthday all month by dropping a free small Slurpee into every 7Rewards account in July, including National Ice Cream Day.

Baskin Robbins: It’s the perfect time to try the new Creature Creations, a magical lineup that includes a Dolphin, Shark and Sea Turtle with their own unique personalities that come to life through a playful cup design, edible white chocolate topper and a colorful explosion of sprinkles. On Sunday, July 18 Baskin-Robbins will serve up a free Kinetic Sand Scented Ice Cream Cone container with any purchase of $10 or more, while supplies last. Customers will discover one of two delicious scents, Mint Chocolate or Strawberry Banana, inside the ice cream cone container that doubles as a mold.

Carvel: In celebration, the brand is offering a special one-day treat on National Ice Cream Day. The offer is redeemable until the end of August, so fans can enjoy Carvel all summer long. Additionally, fans who purchase a new Churro product on July 18 will receive a special card with one of these surprise offers on a variety of Carvel menu items, which can be redeemed throughout the summer (valid through August 30):

  • BOGO Sundae: Buy One, Get One Free Sundae (Soft Serve Only)
  • BOGO Cup/Cone: Buy One, Get One Free Cup or Cone (Soft Serve Only)
  • Free Junior Cone: Free Jr. Cone with any $5 (or more) purchase (Soft Serve Only)
  • $1 Off Sundae Dasher: $1 off purchase of a Sundae Dasher®
  • Free Topping: One free topping with the purchase of any size cup of ice cream

As a bonus, fans can also visit at Carvel.com/icecreamday for a chance to win free ice cream for a year!

Dairy Queen: For this one day only, participating DQ stores nationwide are offering fans $1 off any size Dipped Cone (excluding kid cones) with the DQ mobile app.

Friendly's: On July 18, join the Friendly’s Sweet Rewards Club and you’ll get a free medium sundae.

go Puff: From July 13 to July 18, the convenience store delivery app is offering any two pints of Ben & Jerry’s and Talenti Ice Cream for just $8. You can also take 25% off a six-pack of Good Humor treats.

Godiva: BOGO 50% off on soft serve and sundaes at participating reopened locations.

Graeter's: The Ohio-based ice cream company with locations in Chicago, Pittsburgh, Indianapolis and across Kentucky, is celebrating their 150th birthday with $1.50 cones through July 20. The offer is available for Sweet Rewards members in-store only.

Instacart: Spend $20 on Dreyer’s ice cream products and get $5 off your order or free delivery through July 31.

Pressed Juicery: For one-day only (Sunday, July 18), Pressed customers can get a size 1 plant-based soft serve (freeze or mini-frozen) with up to 3 toppings for $2. Offer is limited to 3 per customer and only available in-store at select Pressed locations.

Milk Bar: Get a $1 soft serve with B’day Crumb for National Birthday Do Over Month, inviting everyone to celebrate the birthday they didn’t get to celebrate like normal last year. 

ReThink Ice Cream: The ice cream company is offering a buy-six-get-two free deal on its website through July 31. 

Rite Aid: Get their new Thrifty ice cream for 2/$7 or $4.59 each.

Sensodyne: To redeem a free kit this National Ice Cream Day, tweet #LiveEveryMoMint on National Ice Cream Day, Sunday, July 18 starting 12AM ET. You can also enter to win prior to National Ice Cream Day starting July 1 by visiting https://liveeverymomint.fooji.com/#start.

Serendipity3: The iconic NYC landmark restaurant is giving out free pints of  their super-premium ice cream brand, Serendipity Brands to all customers on Sunday, July 18, while supplies last. Serendipity Brands offers flavors inspired by Serendipity3 desserts, including Frrrozen Hot Chocolate plus Selena Gomez’s flavor, Cookies & Cream Remix. 

TCBY: National Ice Cream Day is coming up on July 18 and with flavors like Limeade Sorbet and hand-scooped Birthday Cake, TCBY is offering delicious summer deals – be the first to know by downloading the free TCBY Loyalty app and registering for the brand’s loyalty program. It’s TCBY’s 40th birthday, and to celebrate, new TCBY Insider members receive special perks now through July 31.

Whole Foods: To celebrate National Ice Cream Day, from July 7 through July 20, Whole Foods Market will offer 35% off all ice cream and frozen treats, including new items from Milk Bar, Jeni’s and 365 by Whole Foods Market, plus Prime Members save an extra 10%! All ice cream and frozen treats (including dairy-free varieties) sold at Whole Foods Market do not contain the 150+ preservatives, flavors, colors and other ingredients we’ve prohibited from food.

Yogurtland: In honor of National Ice Cream Day, Yogurtland will be offering 3x the points for Real Rewards members for all in-stores and online orders! This summer, find flavors like Big Pop Sorbet, Passion Orange Guava Tart, Acai Bowls, and more! Guests must be Real Rewards Members to receive bonus points.

Your Pie: The nation’s first fast-casual pizza franchise, will be celebrating National Ice Cream Day by offering guests a free gelato on Sunday, July 18.  Customers using the Your Pie app will receive a one-day redeemable offer for one free scoop of gelato valid on July 18.  No purchase necessary.

Free Disney+ For 6 Months

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Amazon Music Unlimited customers can now score several months of Disney Plus for free, and the offer extends to new subscribers as well as existing users.

Amazon announced Monday that existing Amazon Music Unlimited subscribers in the US and Canada can activate three months of Disney’s streaming service for free through a new promotion. New Amazon Music Subscribers, meanwhile, will be able to access six months of Disney Plus through the offer.

Go HERE to get your deal!

Free Movie Tickets, Popcorn and More

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Take the family to “kids camp” every Wednesday at AMC Theatres.

Every Wednesday of the summer, AMC Theatres hosts a kids camp where you can pay just $4 per child’s ticket to watch Kid-Friendly Films like Trolls, The LEGO Movie 2, Wonderpark, and more!

Even sweeter, that $4 ticket includes a KidsPack of AMC snacks, complete with a kid’s popcorn, fountain drink, and FrootiTooti fruit snacks! Head on over here for more details and to find a participating AMC Theater near you.

Stop by the Summer Movie Clubhouse at Cinemark Theaters.

From June 16 – August 4, participating Cinemark Theaters will be hosting an 8-Week Cinemark Summer Movie Clubhouse event every Wednesday. See kid-friendly movies for just $1.50 per ticket, and save on snacks too with $1 off kids’ snack packs, large popcorns, and large drinks during Summer Movie Clubhouse showtimes.

Head on over here for more details, showtimes, or to find a participating theater near you.

 

Climb aboard the Summer Movie Express at Regal Cinemas.

This summer, participating Regal Cinemas, United Artists, and Edwards Theaters will be hosting their Summer Movie Express every Tuesday and Wednesday at 10 AM. Moviegoers of all ages are invited to enjoy a selection of family-friendly films for just $1. Visit their site for more details and to find a participating theater near you.

Choose your own price for Kids Camp at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema.

All summer long, kids ages 3 and up can enjoy classic and family favorite films at Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas for just $1, $3, or $5. Choose your own ticket price and buy your tickets online to reserve your seats in advance. All proceeds benefit three local non-profits. Movie selection and dates may vary by location, so visit this page for more information!

Catch a $2 movie at Classic Cinemas every Wednesday.

From June 9 through August 11, Classic Cinemas will be showing family-friendly movies for just $2 per ticket. Showtimes will be staggered starting between 9:30 AM and 10:00 AM, and one stadium at each theater will be reserved for a sensory-friendly screening. Visit their site for the 2021 lineup and more details.

 

Check out the Children’s Summer Series at Studio Movie Grill.

From May 31 through September 3, participating Studio Movie Grill locations will be hosting their Children’s Summer Series. These titles are scheduled for the first showtime of the day every Monday through Friday. Tickets are $6 and include a small popcorn and a small drink.

Take the kids to the Family Fun Series at Harkins Theaters.

From June 11 through July 22, My Harkins Awards Members can see a family favorite movie for only $3 ($5 for non-members). Plus, Awards Members can get 50% off a Kids Combo each weekday before 6 PM. You can find more information about the Harkins Theaters Family Fun Series here.

 

Take the kids to a movie for just $2 at Metropolitan Theatres.

From June 8 through August 12, Metropolitan Theatres is having a Summer Kids Film Series every week for just $2 per ticket. For $10, you can upgrade your child’s ticket to a Kid’s Package, which includes a movie and lunch at MetroLux Dine-In Theatres. Dates and times vary by location – head on over here to see program availability near you!

See 10 movies for $10 at Megaplex Theatres.

Starting May 26, Megaplex Theatres are showing one kids’ movie a week for 10 weeks and offering up passes to see all 10 of the movies for just $10. Passes may be purchased online or at any participating Megaplex Theatres Box Office. Head on over to their website to see the summer movie schedule based on your location.

 

Take the whole family to Phoenix Theatres for FREE movies all summer long!

At 10 AM every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday morning this summer, Phoenix Theatres will be showing family-friendly movies for FREE! Doors open at 9 AM and all age groups are welcome. Plus, they’ll have a special Kiddie Meal available! Find a location near you.

Movie fans of all ages can see FREE family-friendly movies at Marquee Cinemas.

All summer long, Marquee Cinemas will be showing FREE kids’ movies for the whole family. Participation will vary by location, so head on over here and select your local cinema for titles and showtimes near you.

 

 

10+ Freebies For Good Grades

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APPLEBEE'S

The A is for Apple Program gives kids a certificate for a free kids' meals. This program is only open to schools, though. If you're a parent, contact your child's teacher to let her know about this program that offers rewards for students.

   

BASKIN-ROBBINS

Earn a free scoop of ice cream. Bring in your report card showing good grades to get your freebie.

   

CHICK-FIL-A

A report card with A's and B's earns either a free 8-pack of chicken nuggets or a free ice cream cone. Chick-fil-A also offers a program for schools. Students can earn a free kids' meal for good grades, perfect attendance or other student achievements. For access to these freebies, your child's school will need to contact the restaurant.

   

CHUCK E. CHEESE

Kids earn game tokens for their grades. There's a limit of 15 tokens allowed per child and a food purchase is required.

COLDSTONE CREAMERY

Kids can earn free ice cream for good grades. Students must earn a straight-A report card. Kindergarten students up to fifth graders can participate.

   

JUSTICE STORES

Tween girl retail store Justice will give you $5 off your purchase. Bring in a good report card that's been issued within the past 30 days.

   

KRISPY KREME

Get a free doughnut for an A when you visit a Krispy Kreme shop (not a convenience or grocery store that sells Krispy Kreme doughnuts). The limit of doughnuts handed out for A's depends on the store, but it can be as high as 6 per report card.

   

LONG JOHN SILVER'S

While this program is only open to schools, it rewards students with meals for a number of achievements on top of academic excellence. School administrators need to contact the local restaurant to participate.

   

MCDONALD'S

Straight-A kindergarten through 5th-grade students can earn a free Happy Meal when they bring in their report cards along with a voucher from the school. 

   

PIZZA HUT

If you have 3 A's on your report card, you get a free Personal Pan Pizza and a small soda or milk. The offer is only good for elementary and middle school students. Dine-in only.

   

WENDY'S

A report card with A's and B's earns a delicious treat. Show the cashier your report card before ordering.

 

Tip: Before you visit any of the businesses listed, be sure to call the store first and ask for the manager. You want to verify that particular location is participating before you promise your star student a reward. If the store isn't participating, call other locations in your city. Since many are franchises, one store may not be participating but the location down the street is giving out rewards for students.

15+ Military Freebies + Discounts

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Tip: Be sure to read the fine print on each military freebie offer to find out if you are eligible and what you need to show them to prove your eligibility.

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    Free Admission to Theme Parks

      

    Under the Waves of Honor program, active duty, activated or drilling reservist, or National Guardsmen gets free admission into any of the Anheuser-Busch theme parks once a year. The program also offers discounts for veterans.

    The free admission is good for SeaWorld Orlando, SeaWorld San Antonio, SeaWorld San Diego, Busch Gardens Tampa, Busch Gardens Williamsburg, Sesame Place Langhorne, and Discovery Cove.

    Those who are eligible will get one free single-day admission ticket each year and other possible discounts that vary by park.

  •  

    Free Museum Admission Around the Country

    Active military members and their families can get free admission into over 1,500 museums around the country from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

    Visit the website and click on your state to see which museums in your area are participating in this Blue Star Museums program.

    There's also a newer program, Blue Star Theater that gives out free and discounted theatre tickets to 130+ theaters around the country.

  •  

    Free National Park Pass for Military Families


    Veterans, active-duty military members, and their family members can get a free annual pass to more than 2,000 national parks in the United States.

    This has an $80 value to it and is completely free to those in the military.

  • Veterans Day Free Meals and Other Freebies


    Every Veterans Day, restaurants around the country give out free meals and other freebies to veterans.

    Most of these free meals are also for those on active duty so be sure to read the fine print to see what free food you can get.

     

  • Free Wedding Dresses for Military Brides

    Through the Brides Across American program, military brides can get a free wedding gown from a bridal shop near them that's participating in this annual event that takes place in July.

    The bride or their fiance will need to have been deployed within the past 5 years or about to be deployed and have not had a formal wedding.

  • Free Landscape Services for Military Families

    GreenCare for Troops is a program where volunteers in your area will come and take care of a military member's yard for free by providing services like lawn mowing, trimming, pruning, fertilizing, pest control, and maintenance.

    There's also SnowCare for Troops where volunteers will come and remove snow for military families while their loved one is away serving.

  • Free Photography Sessions For Military Families

    Operation: Love ReUnited connects you with a photographer in your area who will volunteer to perform a free photography session for military members who are ready to deploy, currently deployed or those who are coming home.

    Besides the session fees being waived the photographer will also provide some free photos or albums at no charge.

  • Free Grants for Military Kids to Participate in Activities

    Our Military Kids is a very special program that awards grants for costs of sports, fine arts, camps, and tutoring programs while their military parent is away at service or recovering from an injury.

    This program is for children of those in the National Guard or Reserves and are deployed overseas as well as Wounded Warrior service members.

  • Free Online Tutoring for Kids

    Students in U.S. military families are eligible to get free tutoring through Tutor.com.

    These free online tutoring sessions are available 24/7 and are for students K-12.

  • Free Tickets for Activity Military and Veterans

    Through the Veteran Tickets Foundation, individuals and organizations donate tickets to events like sporting events and concerts. Active duty military members, veterans, and their families can use these tickets to attend the event for free.

    Check the website to see what free tickets are available for events in your area.

  • Free Bedtime Story Video Recordings for Military Kids

    United Through Reading is giving away free apps to members of the military who are deploying or already deployed. When deployed, members can visit a United Through Reading site or use the app to make a UTR recording. Service members can also record stories before deployment.

    The deployed service member can record a video of themselves reading the story which the child can then watch as many times as they'd like.

  • Free Welcome Home Banners

    BuildASign gives away free welcome home banners to military friends and families that welcome home a loved one from deployment.

    There are 15 sign designs to choose from and all can be customized with your choice of text and colors. 

  • Free FICO Score

    SaveandInvest is offering free FICO credit scores to military families.

    You can register for a free credit score by contacting a PMilitary Financial Educator in your area.

    MORE MEMORIAL DAY FREEBIES AND DEALS HERE

Baby Yoda Cookies

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Just use an angel cookie cutter, trim off the top and there it is- Baby Yoda! Use brown and green icing to decorate.
Here's the sugar cookie recipe: 

    1 1/2 cups butter, softened 

    2 cups white sugar 

    4 eggs 

    1 teaspoon vanilla extract 

    5 cups all-purpose flour 

    2 teaspoons baking powder 

    1 teaspoon salt 


In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Stir in the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cover, and chill dough for at least one hour (or overnight).    Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C). Roll out dough on floured surface 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Cut into shapes with any cookie cutter. Place cookies 1 inch apart on ungreased cookie sheets.    Bake 6 to 8 minutes in preheated oven. Cool completely. 


Icing Recipe: 
In a medium bowl, mix powdered sugar and butter with spoon or electric mixer on low speed. Stir in vanilla and 1 tablespoon of the milk. Gradually beat in just enough remaining milk to make frosting smooth and spreadable. If frosting is too thick, beat in more milk, a few drops at a time.


First, I doubled the recipe and mixed everything in my Kitchen Aid mixer. My grandma mixed most of her cookies with a spoon, the old-school way. 

Then I wrapped everything in wax paper to chill for a few hours. Then get out your angel cookie cutters and start cutting out.
Photo Source Unknown

 

Amazon Shopping Tips

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  1. You can find out Amazon's most heavily discounted item each day by visiting Camelcamelcamel.
  2. Cool discounts can also be found on Amazon's Gold Box
  3. Considering Amazon Prime? It's definitely worth it if you order at least 10 items that cost less than $25 per year.
  4. Prime Members also get free access to over a million songs and hundreds of playlists with Prime Music.
  5. Students with an .edu address can get a six-month Prime Membership for free.
  6. Moms can get a free three-month membership to Prime plus exclusive Amazon Mom  benefits.
  7. You are allowed to share your Prime membership with up to four additional family members living in the same household.
  8. If you look for items in stock near your shipping location, you may be offered one-day shipping.
  9. If you regularly buy an item, you can get discounts on it through the Subscribe and Save  program.
  10. Want to find free books on Kindle that are actually good? Search "Kindle Books Under $2."
  11. You don't actually need a Kindle to read a Kindle book. Amazon has Kindle reading apps for Windows, Mac, iPad, iPhone, Android, Windows Phone 7, and BlackBerry.
  12. Find deep discounts on refurbished and open-box items (including cell phones, computers, and Kindles) with Amazon Warehouse .
  13. Download the app and find deals faster.
  14. Prime members get 1 free Kindle book a month.

20+ Stores That Price Match Amazon

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1. Advance Auto Parts

Advance Auto Parts will price match any identical or comparable product, which is pretty rare! With their Price Match Guarantee, you’ll hit the road knowing you have the best price (and product).

2. Ashley Homestore

Ashley Furniture will price match any identical and in-stock item on Amazon. Check out their entire Pricing Policy, so you know you’re getting the best deal.

3. Bed Bath & Beyond

 

You can get the best price match in store, by email, or by phone with Bed Bath and Beyond’s Policy. Read all the details on their Worry-Free Price Match Promise.

4. Best Buy

Best Buy claims that no one will beat their prices – and that includes sales made directly from Amazon! With their Price Match Guarantee, you can get the best deal in-store and online.

5. Dell

Dell will not only price match before you buy, but they’ll also price match up to 30-days after you buy! Items must be sold directly from Amazon to be eligible for their Price Match Guarantee.

6. Dick’s Sporting Goods

 

Any item that’s an exact match and sold directly by Amazon are eligible for Dick’s Price Match Guarantee. Not only will you receive the best price, but you’ll still get to collect your Scorecard rewards when purchasing through them.

7. Dyson

Within 30 days of your purchase, you can get with the best price with Dyson’s Price Match Guarantee for any item that is sold directly through Amazon.

8. Fry’s Electronics

The cost of shipping is always included for any verified, identical item with their 30-Day Price Match Promise. As a bonus, if you’ve already purchased an item with Fry’s and find a better online price, they will refund you 110% of the cost you paid!

9. GNC

All you have to do to take advantage of their Price Match Guarantee is show any associate the Amazon price online, and they’ll give you your discount. Products must be the exact same, including flavors and serving sizes.

10. Golf Galaxy

Golf Galaxy claims that they will not be undersold. With their Pricing Policy, you’ll receive the best price at the time of purchase (and up to 30 days after buying), guaranteed, for any items sold directly from Amazon.

11. Home Depot

The Home Depot Guaranteed Low Price policy gives you the best price at checkout for an identical item sold by Amazon. Some products, such as seasonal, discontinued, clearance, and others are not included, so brush up on their policy before heading to the store!

12. HP

You can score a new desktop or laptop with HP’s Price Match Policy if you find a better price on Amazon. The item’s model number and detailed specifications must be exact before taxes.

13. JCPenney

Price match with JCPenney’s Lowest Price Guarantee. Not only will they price match, but they’ll also give you an additional 5% discount for any priced item sold directly on Amazon.

14. JOANN Fabrics

Identical, in-stock items on Amazon found for a lower price within 7 days of your purchase will be price matched with JOANN’s Price Match Pledge. Seasonal items, doorbusters, and other restrictions apply and are not applicable for price matching.

15. Kohl’s

When shopping Kohl’s, simply show a store associate your phone with the identical item you want to purchase, and they’ll honor the lower price in store with their Price Match Guarantee. (Prices during the week of Thanksgiving will not be honored.)

16. Lord + Taylor

Any item sold on Amazon that is an exact match in size, color, and is in stock will be price matched with Lord + Taylor’s Price Policy. Item must be purchased on the same day as the valid online price.

17. Lowe’s

An associate at Lowe’s can price match any eligible items in store. Some brands and certain products (including delivery and installation fees) are not included in the price guarantee (or may make them ineligible). Check out their entire Price Match Guarantee before buying.

18. Nordstrom

Nordstrom will price match any item that is the same size, color, and in stock on Amazon or sold by any U.S. based seller on Amazon. Their Pricing Policy restricts any items that are on flash sale, discounted items, or outlet prices.

19. Petco

You can price match any identical item at Petco that you find on Amazon by calling their number and requesting a price match. Since their Price Match Guarantee contains this added step, do a little planning before you head to the store.

20. Staples

With Staples Price Match Guarantee, they will give you the best price for in-store shopping only. If you find a lower price within 14 days of making your purchase at Staples, they’ll refund you the difference.

21. Sur la Table

The Price Match Guarantee offers you the ability to compare prices, not only from Amazon directly but also from products sold from select retailers selling on Amazon. They will accommodate in-store purchase with an associate or online purchases by calling their customer service.

22. Target

Even if you find a better price sold directly on Amazon, Target will price match it. Their Price Match Guarantee does not include third-party sellers, and stores in Alaska and Hawaii are excluded.

23. Tractor Supply Co.

Tractor Supply will match any competitor’s online or in-store price on any item that is identical to the item on Amazon. Their Price Match Guarantee does not include prices from third-party sellers or other prices instant rebates, mail-in offers, and other listings. Make sure to read all their guidelines before heading to the store.

24. Walmart

Walmart’s Price Matching Policy will match any identical item sold directly by Amazon. Prices on third-party items or stores in Alaska or Hawaii are restricted from these special offers.

Best Rewards Programs: Regal, Papa John's, More

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1. Ace Hardware

Sign up for Ace Rewards, and you’ll get 10 points for every dollar you spend. Accumulate 2,500 points, and you’ll earn a $10 reward — which is equivalent to getting 4 percent back.

You also receive 1,000 points just for signing up, plus coupons and sale reminders.

2. AutoZone

Join AutoZone Rewards, and you’ll earn one credit every time you make a purchase of $20 or more. Once you earn five credits, you’ll get a $20 reward. That could equate to as much as 20 percent back, depending on the total amount of your five purchases of $20 or more.

3. Best Buy

Join the My Best Buy program, and you’ll earn 0.5 points for every dollar spent. Once you hit 250 points, you get a $5 reward.

 

4. CVS

Sign up for the ExtraCare rewards program, and you’ll score 2 percent back on purchases. Rewards are paid out four times a year — in January, April, July and October.

However, it’s worth noting that you must spend $50 per earning period — or earn at least $1 in ExtraBucks Rewards — to get your rewards. Also, some items at CVS — including prescriptions and copays — do not qualify for the 2 percent back, according to the ExtraCare frequently asked questions page.

5. Dick’s Sporting Goods 

Members of the Dick’s ScoreCard program get one point for every dollar they spend. With 300 points, you get a $10 reward. That amounts to 3 percent back on every purchase.

ScoreCard members also enjoy exclusive coupons and access to special events.

6. Kohl’s

Enroll in Kohl’s Yes2You Rewards program, and you’ll get a point for every dollar you spend. Once you accumulate 100 points, you’ll receive a $5 reward. In essence, it’s like getting 5 percent back on every purchase you make.

You’ll also receive eight other offers during the year, a special gift on your birthday and opportunities to earn bonus points.

7. Office Depot/Office Max

Sign up for Office Depot/Office Max Rewards, and you’ll get 2 percent back on purchases.

Spend $500 within a 12-month period, and you’ll earn VIP status. That gets you 5 percent back in rewards on ink, toner, paper and copy/print/ship services.

You’ll also get free shipping with no minimum purchase requirement, and receive free product samples and a gift on your birthday.

8. Papa John’s

Enroll in Papa Rewards, and you will get one point for every $5 you spend. As few as 10 points can earn you a reward. You’ll also collect 10 points on your birthday. 

9. Petco 

Pets can be expensive, but you can keep them from taking a bite out of your wallet by joining Petco’s Pals Rewards program. Members get one point for every dollar they spend, and a $5 reward once they reach 100 points. That’s a 5 percent savings on every purchase.

10. Regal Entertainment Group

If you love the movies, join the Regal Crown Club. When you do, you’ll get 100 credits for every dollar you spend on tickets and concessions. You can use the credits for things such as free admission or free food.

The more Regal movies you take in, the greater your reward. For example, once you see 20 movies during the year, you’ll earn “Diamond” status — the highest of three bonus levels — and get 1,000 extra credits for each visit.

11. Staples

Members of Staples Rewards earn either 2 percent or 5 percent back on in-store purchases, depending on how much they spend in a 12-month period.

Members also get free next-day shipping on orders of more than $49.99, and other perks.

12. Starbucks

In the Starbucks Rewards program, you earn two stars for every dollar you spend. You will also enjoy perks such as free in-store refills and a birthday reward.

Earn 300 stars and you will qualify for Gold Level status. Customers at this level get added perks like a reward of a free eligible beverage or food item for every 125 stars.

13. Ulta Beauty

Join Ulta’s Ultamate Rewards program, and you will earn one point for every dollar you spend. Once you reach 100 points, you will be eligible to redeem them for $3 off your next purchase.

That means Ultamate Rewards members get the equivalent of 3 percent back on their purchases — although members get even more back if they accumulate more points before redeeming them. For example, 2,000 points earns you $125 off your next purchase. That’s the equivalent of 6.25 percent off.

You also can earn up to five points on some special offers. And not only will you receive a birthday gift, but you also can earn double rewards for all purchases you make during your birthday month.

10+ Things You Can Get Free at the Library

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Read for Free

Libraries are known for books, offering fiction and non-fiction hardbacks, paperbacks, and eBooks. The eBooks can be downloaded into nearly any format to fit your computer, eReader or other device. The downloaded books will expire at the end of their loan period so no returns necessary. Overdrive is one provider of download services to libraries. 

Magazines and Newspapers for Free

Magazine titles from Reader's Digest to Vogue to Hot Rod, including back issues are available for loan. Local newspapers and the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, New York Times and others are available for reading in the library.

Free Periodical Searches

If you are a high school or college student, you will be required to cite sources, footnote your thesis, or find some obscure fact for a class. If you find you need an article that appeared in Time Magazine on global warming from 2004, the library will have it on a database. The only cost would be for print/copies. Here's a quick look: EBSCO Periodical Search.

 

Librarian Access 24/7

If you can't find the answers you need, librarians await your question. In New York City, they have Ask NYPL, (your local libraries will have different names for this feature), which gives 24/7 access to an online research librarian.

 

Internet and Wi-Fi

You can have free internet access and Wi-Fi, all you need is a library card. Be aware that most libraries utilize "censoring" programs for juvenile users, and parental consent may be required to use the Internet.
The average cost of internet service is between $20 and $45 per month as of 2014.

 

Learn a Foreign Language

If you're traveling abroad on business or vacation, then check out the free foreign language learning databases. Using a service from BYKI, patrons can choose to learn over 70 languages. Their interactive learning site offers individual learning, flash cards, and words of the day.

 

Job Preparation 

Learning Express enables you to study for hundreds of tests, including civil service, military entrance exams and preparation tests for SAT/ACT, MSAT, LSAT and dozens of others. You will find practice tests at all levels. You can practice, save your test, see your results and try again all for free.

 

Find Your Family History

For family genealogists, libraries offer free access to search programs such asAncestry.com, and HeritageQuest.com. These databases usually require you to search in the library, but occasionally some libraries will allow you to search from home after logging in with your library card number. Some libraries also have research librarians and genealogists on staff to assist with your search.

 

Free Books for Parents

The library is a significant resource to parents. Where else could your children find a free summer program that encourages reading, allows them to take home armloads of books free and usually gives them prizes for encouragement? Throughout many summer programs, authors, wildlife experts and a myriad of others drop by bringing their special knowledge to share.

 

Free Auto Repair and other Databases

For those who don't like to read for recreation, there are practical free databases in auto and truck repair provided by ARRC, reference databases such a Kelly Blue Book, Antiques Weekly and Standard & Poor.

 

Other Free Services

Many libraries have a notary on staff (there may be a fee for notary services), offer tax forms, have dedicated internet computers to the IRS and Social Security sites, voter registration forms, test proctoring and fax services, and larger metropolitan libraries offer passport processing.

More Netflix Secret Codes

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Kid & Family Movies

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Muppet Movies

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Movies by Age

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Teen Viewing

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Restaurants Offering Family Deal Bundles

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KFC

KFC's $30 fill up can feed a family of four...twice. Each $30 fill up meal comes with a choice of either an eight-piece original recipe or extra crispy chicken and a 12-piece chicken tender. Along with that, it includes a large coleslaw, four biscuits, two large orders of mashed potatoes, and gravy.

Panda Express

Get four bowls for just $20 using the code "4BOWLS420" on your online Panda Express orders through April 30. Bowls come with one side and one main dish.

Denny's

Whether you want a big breakfast (hello, pancakes) or need to cover dinner for the night (burgers please!) Denny's has large portioned orders that you can customize all you want ranging from $25 to $29.

Chick-fil-A

Chick-fil-A's family meal includes 30-count chicken nuggets and gallons of their sweet tea. If you'd rather substitute in chicken sandwiches or mac & cheese for sides, you have options.

Olive Garden

Olive Garden's buy one, take one deal lets you get one hot meal to eat now, and one cooled and packed meal to enjoy later.

Subway

Subway is running a Family Takeout Special where you will get a free Footlong with the purchase of two Footlongs.

Jack in the Box

Jack in the Box is offering three different meal deals, depending on how many people you have a home to feed. There's a burger meal, chicken meal, and a breakfast meal.

LongHorn Steakhouse

LongHorn Steakhouse has bundles for families of four with entrees like hand-breaded chicken tenders, sirloin steak, parmesan-crusted chicken, and baby back ribs all available with sides of your choice.

Einstein Bros Bagels

You can order a family-sized meal from Einstein Bros Bagels if you call ahead or use the mobile app. There are three different kits that can feed up to eight people, including a hot & ready brunch box, take & make pizza bagels, and a take & make deli kit.

Red Lobster

Red Lobster is offering family meal deals, and the menu selection is pretty impressive. From Atlantic salmon to linguini alfredo, you can feed the whole family—with cheddar bay biscuits, too, of course!

 

Source: Delish.com

DIY Teacup Wreath

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Materials


Directions

1. Use E 6000 to glue dinner plate to the center and the saucer to the center of that.

2. Position the teacups on their sides, handles resting on the plate rim, all around the circle.

3. Use hot glue on the sides of the cup to hold them to the wood round.

4. Use a few drops of E6000 to glue the handles to the plate.

5. Glue ribbon to the edge of the plywood.

6. Make a bow and attach to the front.