tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4043404081318686152024-02-20T18:22:52.840-08:00busy mom bargainsDaniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-79396978759864790742020-03-23T11:26:00.003-07:002020-03-23T11:26:39.537-07:00coronavirusYes, this is a bargain hunting blog. However, I would be remiss to pretend like the entire world wasn't in crisis. I would love to be able to share this post with my kids in 5-10 years as they learn about our pandemic in history class (my youngest likely won't remember this time) to give them an idea of what our family unit is currently doing.<br />
<br />
My husband had been in school full-time at a university in the city we live outside of. They extended his spring break to last two weeks then switched entirely to online learning. Today is his first day of that. He is supposed to begin his Master's program in May, but it is for teaching. If schools remain closed into the next school year, we do not know what this means for his program due to student teaching requirements. For now we are operating under the assumption he will be a student again come May.<br />
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Yesterday, Ohio's governor issued a stay at home order. Our family had already been practicing social distancing. We used to all go shopping together, but from the time I got home from a business trip on March 12th, we modified our routines so only one of us would go get supplies when absolutely necessary. We also religiously use hand sanitizer every time we got into the car. We also wash our hands after unloading items. Our schools announced they would be closing until at least early April on 3/12 and we immediately bought a chest freezer. We had been discussing it for over a year (our kitchen was poorly designed so our fridge is unusually small--the freezer is exceptionally tiny) and decided now was the time to pull the trigger. We didn't fill it up but we definitely bought way more frozen items than we normally do to help spread out our grocery trips.<br />
<br />
My work encouraged those of us who were not needed in the lab to start working remotely last week. As such, I have shifted to entirely working from home. My husband's mom previously watched the kids while he was in class and I was at work. We made the decision that for her safety (ours also), we should maintain social distance. As such, my husband and I are working out the balance of entertaining and caring for our children while also getting our work accomplished. I work for an incredibly understanding employer (thank goodness) and they have been more than accommodating given the circumstances.<br />
<br />
If push came to shove, we could probably survive on the items in our pantry for a solid 3-4 weeks. Ironically enough, a lot of these items are due to my bargain hunting and not the pandemic. I have not bought any paper products since February because I had a stockpile from when the items hit my buy price. I did see the writing on the wall in February in terms of food, so I finally made an emergency food tote (we do get tornadoes here, so it is probably wise to have anyway). Otherwise I have not cleared shelves or gone crazy. In fact, we should be under budget on groceries this month.<br />
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Our kids are adapting. Our 5-year-old sobbed when she watched the video her preschool teacher sent out saying hi. She misses her teacher and her friends. Our 7-year-old is doing okay. He is bummed about missing various activities in school and he definitely misses playing with friends, but he is okay. The youngest has no frame of reference and is loving that the 5 of us are here all day, every day. I will admit this extra time together has been lovely. We wish we could spend time with our extended families, but that is not wise at this moment. Now that the weather is starting to break we are able to spend a lot more time in our backyard which definitely helps.<br />
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I did not vote for Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, but I have been so impressed by his leadership. He had appointed qualified individuals and (arguably more importantly) <i>listens</i> to their advice. He has been making very difficult decisions given the ramifications on the economy, but I genuinely believe he is doing so in the interest of saving lives. He is also working closely with individuals in the sectors most affected by this to try to provide them financial relief. I don't agree with all his policies, but his leadership in a time of crisis has left me inclined to vote for him should he run for reelection. Of a greater note is Dr. Amy Acton. DeWine appointed her to be the director for the Ohio Department of Health. LET ME TELL YOU: she is a QUEEN. She is calm. She is collected. Her <a href="https://www.wkyc.com/article/news/health/coronavirus/who-is-ohio-public-health-director-dr-amy-acton/95-930c562c-30ea-4cc9-96d6-0cf3d384247f">story</a> is inspirational. She has been the calm and wise medical expert Ohio needed. I am personally pushing for her to run for president. I haven't told her that, but I think she should.<br />
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Overall, we will endure. We are praying for health and safety of all those who continue to work to keep life moving. We are praying that this will be over soon. We are praying for all those who have lost jobs. I have witnessed a whole lot of kindness in my community (supplying food to those who lost work, rallying to keep free/reduced lunches supplied to the kids who need it, etc.) that has restored my faith in humanity. Here is to hoping that by June things will be somewhat normal again...Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-40549093827416756342020-03-06T06:43:00.000-08:002020-03-06T10:06:35.752-08:00cheap kids clothes round upI have been scouring Amazon the last few days for affordable clothing for future seasons. I've found some amazing deals along the way! We are talking $2-$3 per item. I figured this would be the easiest way to share them. Please note these are affiliate links. Not all sizes/patterns are cheap but here are a few:<br />
<br />
<b>GIRLS</b><br />
XS fit and flare dress in skate/blue - <a href="https://amzn.to/32UxgPn">2 pack for $9.32</a><br />
L fit and flare dress in skate/blue - <a href="https://amzn.to/3aE6jSN">2 pack for $7.10</a><br />
2T leggings in skate- <a href="https://amzn.to/39AhQm0">4 pack for $12.10</a><br />
2T twirl scooter skirts in elephants/pink - <a href="https://amzn.to/2VPHcbb">2 pack for $6.97</a><br />
XS short-sleeve ruffle tops in kitty ninjas - <a href="https://amzn.to/2TtDr9W">3 pack for $9.16</a><br />
XS knit dolphin hem shorts in fruit/red - <a href="https://amzn.to/2VOMwMb">2 pack for $7.06</a><br />
XXL leggings in math - <a href="https://amzn.to/2In3Nnx">3 pack for $8.98</a><br />
2T Disney leggings in Star Wars Rebel - <a href="https://amzn.to/2VP5nXn">4 pack for $13.93</a><br />
4 active tank and short set in pink love - <a href="https://amzn.to/38sfeFo">2 pieces for $4.79</a><br />
S sleeveless tank tops in sports - <a href="https://amzn.to/32WPtfh">3 pack for $5.63</a><br />
2T sleeveless tank tops in sports - <a href="https://amzn.to/2Tu3o9x">3 pack for $5.81</a><br />
3T sleeveless tank tops in sports - <a href="https://amzn.to/2PRTITI">3 pack for $5.44</a><br />
XS sleeveless tank tops in sports - <a href="https://amzn.to/2v0d5mD">3 pack for $4.84</a><br />
3T long-sleeve thermal tops in gamer girl - <a href="https://amzn.to/2VSd8vx">2 pack for $7.42</a><br />
M sleeveless tank tops in floral - <a href="https://amzn.to/2Iq38ls">4 pack for $9.14</a><br />
L sleeveless tank tops in floral - <a href="https://amzn.to/2VTZkkj">4 pack for $9.14</a><br />
XL sleeveless tank tops in floral or cat/bird - <a href="https://amzn.to/3cAFqkn">4 pack for $9.14</a><br />
XS sleeveless tank tops in shine bright - <a href="https://amzn.to/2TwVe09">4 pack for $9.14</a><br />
S sleeveless tank tops in floral - <a href="https://amzn.to/38viqQy">4 pack for $9.14</a><br />
M sleeveless tank tops in floral - <a href="https://amzn.to/32XkEab">4 pack for $9.14</a><br />
2T terry knit shorts in skate - <a href="https://amzn.to/2VQkzUj">2 pack for $6.02</a><br />
3T terry knit shorts in skate - <a href="https://amzn.to/3cDqSk0">2 pack for $5.46</a><br />
4T terry knit shorts in skate - <a href="https://amzn.to/38vEVog">2 pack for $6.15</a><br />
XS terry knit shorts in skate - <a href="https://amzn.to/2uXMKW7">2 pack for $5.91</a><br />
S terry knit shorts in skate - <a href="https://amzn.to/2vBvDKi">2 pack for $6.65</a><br />
L terry knit shorts in skate - <a href="https://amzn.to/3axgnN9">2 pack for $6.61</a><br />
2T bike shorts in unicorn - <a href="https://amzn.to/2TLqp6q">3 pack for $7.41</a><br />
L bike shorts in coral star - <a href="https://amzn.to/39sr4QY">3 pack for $9.73</a><br />
XL bike shorts in unicorn - <a href="https://amzn.to/2VMEPpL">3 pack for $7.56</a><br />
XXL bike shorts in unicorn - <a href="https://amzn.to/38vusJs">3 pack for $9.09</a><br />
XS capri leggings in outside - <a href="https://amzn.to/330kMph">3 pack for $8.66</a><br />
S capri leggings in outside - <a href="https://amzn.to/2In24Pe">3 pack for $6.73</a><br />
M capri leggings in outside - <a href="https://amzn.to/2TIx955">3 pack for $6.69</a><br />
L capri leggings in outside - <a href="https://amzn.to/2vNbpNF">3 pack for $6.57</a><br />
3T capri leggings in outside - <a href="https://amzn.to/2TwXrbX">3 pack for $8.19</a><br />
4T capri leggings in outside - <a href="https://amzn.to/38vEkTH">3 pack for $6.83</a><br />
3T knit short-sleeve a-line t-shirt dresses in rainbows - <a href="https://amzn.to/2TDAH8Q">2 pack for $8.02</a><br />
4T cartwheel short in camo/pink/blue - <a href="https://amzn.to/3av003N">3 pack for $7.93</a><br />
XS cartwheel short in camo/pink/blue - <a href="https://amzn.to/3cAIX1T">3 pack for $6.47</a><br />
M cartwheel short in camo/pink/blue - <a href="https://amzn.to/2xhqyXV">3 pack for $6.25</a><br />
L cartwheel short in camo/pink/blue - <a href="https://amzn.to/32Woi41">3 pack for $6.75</a><br />
XL capri leggings in feathers - <a href="https://amzn.to/2TLsX4u">4 pack for $10.97</a><br />
XL capri leggings in tossed fruit - <a href="https://amzn.to/2VSeYwy">4 pack for $10.17</a><br />
XXL capri leggings in feathers - <a href="https://amzn.to/33227th">4 pack for $9.92</a><br />
2T capri leggings in feathers - <a href="https://amzn.to/39FzFjD">4 pack for $9.98</a><br />
XS tank top in cyan/fuschia/heather gray - <a href="https://amzn.to/39wbeES">3 pack for $8.52</a><br />
XS tank top in bright white/even stripe navy/cherry blossom - <a href="https://amzn.to/2vASgP3">3 pack for $5.77</a><br />
XS pull-on woven shorts in olive/chambray - <a href="https://amzn.to/2TtQb09">2 pack for $7.67</a><br />
2T long-sleeve tees in grey camo/coral - <a href="https://amzn.to/2wyd8q3">2 pack for $6.53</a><br />
<br />
<b>BOYS</b><br />
6-12M cotton pajama set in skate dogs - <a href="https://amzn.to/2PStoJw">4 pieces for $6.70</a><br />
XS active tank and shorts set in red/grey - <a href="https://amzn.to/39ps9sR">2 pieces for $3.26</a><br />
L active tank and shorts set in white/blue - <a href="https://amzn.to/38pFZKB">2 pieces for $4.12</a><br />
XL active tank and shorts set in red/grey - <a href="https://amzn.to/2PSJNO5">2 pieces for $4.06</a><br />
S short-sleeve t-shirts in chompers - <a href="https://amzn.to/39uhi0P">5 pack for $13.85</a><br />
XS active mesh shorts in yellow/blue - <a href="https://amzn.to/39u9ZWJ">2 pack for $7.69</a><br />
S short-sleeve t-shirt in kung fu kid - <a href="https://amzn.to/2xgm1oF">3 pack for $6.95</a><br />
S short-sleeve t-shirt in moto yeti - <a href="https://amzn.to/2v4xHdu">3 pack for $6.71</a><br />
M short-sleeve t-shirt in moto yeti - <a href="https://amzn.to/2v2KKfq">3 pack for $7.02</a><br />
L short-sleeve t-shirt in moto yeti - <a href="https://amzn.to/2IrTEWV">3 pack for $6.71</a><br />
M short-sleeve t-shirt in neon dino - <a href="https://amzn.to/2ImXfW8">3 pack for $6.52</a><br />
2T active muscle tank tops - <a href="https://amzn.to/3cAZYcr">2 pack for $4.06</a><br />
4T active muscle tank tops - <a href="https://amzn.to/2PRS7xc">2 pack for $3.98</a><br />
XS active muscle tank tops - <a href="https://amzn.to/2wEsXeL">2 pack for $4.79</a><br />
XS sleeveless tank tops in go banana - <a href="https://amzn.to/2Incpun">3 pack for $7.62</a><br />
S sleeveless tank tops in go banana - <a href="https://amzn.to/3avSPbw">3 pack for $9.81</a><br />
M sleeveless tank tops in go banana - <a href="https://amzn.to/38wGbaK">3 pack for $8.12</a><br />
M sleeveless tank tops in sports - <a href="https://amzn.to/2TDDkre">3 pack for $7.66</a><br />
L sleeveless tank tops in where's the beach - <a href="https://amzn.to/2TJTQpK">3 pack for $7.84</a><br />
XL sleeveless tank tops in globe respect - <a href="https://amzn.to/2TMHKfD">3 pack for $6.62</a><br />
XL sleeveless tank tops in where's the beach - <a href="https://amzn.to/2VPcIGp">3 pack for $6.60</a><br />
XXL sleeveless tank tops in where's the beach - <a href="https://amzn.to/2VOejfG">3 pack for $7.60</a>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-34690106086467137142020-03-05T00:01:00.000-08:002020-03-05T00:01:03.479-08:00disney world vacation cost breakdownOne question I see posed a lot on the Disney boards is how much to budget for a trip. I thought it might be helpful to share my family's cost breakdown for those in the planning stages. For reference, we could have done this trip for a <i>lot</i> less than we did. However, we knew this would likely be the biggest (and potentially only) Disney trip we ever took, so we opted to do things a bit "bigger."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5rru6rHjgwidy9_uD_kYnznmPsmn_qIQAJzvjSuhrfeKWiIGtp55B3rr-ubHmrQ7mf4nfJ-8MmUQsjp3-qKcY7bolHNor6etU9kYnoc834cHtvC1WAC_8Hq1LlX9nyy5dDuAFBT10wl5C/s1600/71490996_10215131035375715_1594007138303213568_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="768" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5rru6rHjgwidy9_uD_kYnznmPsmn_qIQAJzvjSuhrfeKWiIGtp55B3rr-ubHmrQ7mf4nfJ-8MmUQsjp3-qKcY7bolHNor6etU9kYnoc834cHtvC1WAC_8Hq1LlX9nyy5dDuAFBT10wl5C/s400/71490996_10215131035375715_1594007138303213568_o.jpg" width="296" /></a></div>
We traveled from September 28-October 5, 2019. Our tickets were for 2 adults + 2 children (my youngest was under 3 and therefore everything she did - from park tickets to character meals - was free). We flew from Cleveland to Tampa and stayed overnight at <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/5315329">this Airbnb</a> the night of 9/28. We had decided to rent a van and drove it to Orlando from 9/29-10/5 where we stayed at <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/13095190">this Airbnb</a> with my parents + my husband's parents (so we split the cost). The day we arrived in Tampa we visited the Florida Aquarium which I <b>highly </b>recommend. It had a jellyfish touch pool (the big sell for our kids) as well as an outdoor splash pad! During our time in Orlando, we did 2 full park days (Magic Kingdom and Epcot) and one night at the Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party (MNSSHP). Jon and I agreed we'd skip the party next time--there wasn't nearly as much open as we expected and it was a sold out night so it was crazy crowded.<br />
<br />
<u>Transportation</u><br />
+Flights: We used Southwest Chase Visa credit card points, so all we had to pay was taxes + fees, which came out to $28 to fly to Tampa and $28 to fly to Cleveland. We did buy tickets for everyone, so this was for 5 round-trip flights.<br />
+Rental Van: We rented the car through Costco Travel. I kept rebooking it as the price dropped leading up to the trip (this saved me over $200). It ended up being $321.87 for a minivan for 8 days. This was slightly more expensive than it could have been because we picked up at Tampa airport and returned to Orlando airport so it was at least $50-$100 more than if we had the same pick-up/drop-off location.<br />
+*Parking: We decided to drive to the parks. At the time of our trip, regular parking was $25 per day. 3 days x $25 meant our parking cost was $75.<br />
<i>Total Cost: $452.87</i><br />
<br />
<u>Lodging</u><br />
+Tampa Airbnb: $145.37<br />
+Our portion of Orlando Airbnb: $614.52<br />
<i>Total Cost: $759.89 for 7 nights or $108.56/night</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7IjOZAv9vawWnUkpeCmzb3fUhcud0WQ_6nqiIrfnUzPuhp5lKrIfY-rbvkfWmjOq-8O5GtS9GjzlSsbzEUXmg0hrgpV7TL6l2Gz-P6hEeRSRRtUh0ksPHOr3oZOOHgAicenssNZ6EYPez/s1600/71495991_10156914464928823_7471197092879269888_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7IjOZAv9vawWnUkpeCmzb3fUhcud0WQ_6nqiIrfnUzPuhp5lKrIfY-rbvkfWmjOq-8O5GtS9GjzlSsbzEUXmg0hrgpV7TL6l2Gz-P6hEeRSRRtUh0ksPHOr3oZOOHgAicenssNZ6EYPez/s320/71495991_10156914464928823_7471197092879269888_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<u>Disney Tickets</u><br />
+*2 Park days: $437<br />
+*MNSSHP: $266.26<br />
+*Memory Maker: $169 (but family chipped in so we ended up paying about $115 of it)<br />
<i>Total Cost: $818.26</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fCN11DdRAOpfW6haI1E2Ik7R1zOvAZqDTU8YsEivtQXTWOAMZMOUPMNfHA-KA26rb-iANomhqlFVNZ-d3zX2g8NF0AkctiqfbqsVF59Z-tEtAtOL1l2g-GwuFzm5sQNTyAS7gCtRtuPd/s1600/69844811_10215115490147094_3541124158148575232_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7fCN11DdRAOpfW6haI1E2Ik7R1zOvAZqDTU8YsEivtQXTWOAMZMOUPMNfHA-KA26rb-iANomhqlFVNZ-d3zX2g8NF0AkctiqfbqsVF59Z-tEtAtOL1l2g-GwuFzm5sQNTyAS7gCtRtuPd/s320/69844811_10215115490147094_3541124158148575232_o.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<u>Character Meals</u><br />
Note: I HIGHLY recommend doing these, especially if you don't want to stand in outrageous lines in the parks. They are definitely expensive, but for us the cost was proportionate to the experience we had. All the costs I listed here include the local taxes + a 20% tip.<br />
+*Ohana (breakfast): $155.93<br />
+*Chef Mickey's (brunch): $189.14<br />
+*1900 Park Fare (dinner): $224.95<br />
<i>Total Cost: $570.02</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<u>Souvenirs</u><br />
This out of pocket cost for us was actually $0. Since our families knew we'd be going, they had been giving our kids Disney gift cards to use in the parks at holidays and birthdays. Each child had $100 to spend which was MORE than enough and it worked out great because they knew they had $100 and once it was gone it was gone. Not once did they ask us to buy them something!<br />
<br />
<u>Food</u><br />
I didn't track it religiously at the time, so I just looked at our bank accounts to determine what we spent on eating out (both at restaurants and within Disney) the entire trip. The total came out to $273.98 on dining out, or $34.25 a day. One of the huge perks to having stayed at houses with full kitchens meant we did a big grocery run the day we drove into Orlando and cooked our own food. This undoubtedly saved us a ton of money. I didn't include grocery costs here because that would be part of a normal budget for a week on vacation or not.<br />
<i>Total Cost: $273.98</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf52EK5lFkQ7KCWFMENewoMBLGVrYozgerDEUJ_jyTOmETFUp7mc5yICjZqTfNXpavYBxQe87KyGJKM4itU3Kh07wkupuJvWUTgsDiJ_e_ouRclNBzTjfqF6_ONs73QY6bA-o9V34poYKR/s1600/71752810_10215077763563953_8384689134400176128_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf52EK5lFkQ7KCWFMENewoMBLGVrYozgerDEUJ_jyTOmETFUp7mc5yICjZqTfNXpavYBxQe87KyGJKM4itU3Kh07wkupuJvWUTgsDiJ_e_ouRclNBzTjfqF6_ONs73QY6bA-o9V34poYKR/s320/71752810_10215077763563953_8384689134400176128_o.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<u>Florida Aquarium</u><br />
+5 tickets: $121.30<br />
<br />
<b>TOTAL COST: $2996.32</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
*Paid for with Disney gift cards that I bought at a 5% discount at Target / reimbursed the expense through Swagbucks or other money-making apps. Based on this 5% discount I managed to save an additional $104.58 by doing it this way.<br />
<br />
Things of note:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>We did the character meals on our non-park days. This helped us get more "Disney" for less money. Our kids were almost 3, almost 5 and newly 7 at the time of the trip and 2.5 park days was a <i>lot</i>. You know your family best - some families can go every day for two weeks straight. I knew we were <i>not</i> that family and I am glad I didn't let the peer pressure of "you have to do every single park!" change my mind.</li>
<li>I've heard a lot of people say to skip Epcot if you can't do all 4 parks and have young kids. Epcot was actually our 7YO's favorite park! We loved it too--my husband is vegan and we were there during the Food & Wine Festival and he went crazy sampling all the great vegan foods around the world. My girls seemed indifferent to it though I think Frozen was their favorite ride. Definitely glad we did this park.</li>
<li>Memory Maker was worth it for us. To not feel like I had to constantly snap pictures at different experiences was great.</li>
<li>I've heard so many people say that it's way cheaper/better to stay onsite. This was not the case for us. Our Orlando Airbnb gave us so much room to spread out, a private pool, and access to the resort pool (which had water slides, a lazy river, etc.) and the ability to cook many of our own meals. We liked being able to come and go as we needed (without having to wait for buses!) and the cost to park at the parks was nominal. </li>
<li>If you have dietary restrictions, Disney is incredible. Jon (vegan) never had issues finding something good he could eat. My youngest had a dairy allergy and Disney has allergen menus available if you ask. It was a great experience--something our local amusement park could learn from!</li>
<li>Download the My Disney Experience app. We ordered a lot of food ahead in the parks so we didn't have to wait in line. Along the same vein, familiarize yourself with how Fast Passes work! Our Magic Kingdom day we never waited in line for more than 10 minutes because of the Fast Passes and by 3:30 pm when the kids were super hot and exhausted we felt like we had seen all we really cared to see and didn't have any qualms calling it a day.</li>
<li>Be there for rope drop (park opening). We got so much done in the first 2 hours each day before it started to get crowded.</li>
<li>Be flexible but have a general plan. I had extensively researched ride height requirements and studied the map of Magic Kingdom prior to our trip. I wanted to avoid zig-zagging all across the park so I had a general list of what rides I thought the kids would love the most and which "land" in the park they were in. This made our MK day so much smoother without the stress of a rigid schedule. </li>
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If you have any questions or want me to share more specifics about anything, please don't hesitate to comment!</div>
Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-92128361245538163132020-03-04T05:26:00.001-08:002020-03-04T05:26:11.202-08:00how i continue to save my family money<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-small;">Please note- there may be some referral links in here. I tried to specify where!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">We did our <a href="https://busymombargains.blogspot.com/2019/01/lately.html">big Disney trip</a> back at the end of September! I funded this entire trip through money-making apps, Swagbucks, and selling stuff we had no use for at garage sales. There was no greater feeling than returning home after an amazing vacation and not worrying about the impending credit card bill! If anyone is interested, I can do a breakdown of our expenses to help you plan for/budget your own Disney World vacation.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Anyway, since that trip, my husband returned to school full-time to become a teacher. That means were are solidly in the one-income family camp. I budgeted diligently in 2019 and used that / the lack of substitute teaching income he would now be bringing in to make our 2020 budget more realistic. And let me tell you: thinks are <i>tight</i>. Granted, our monthly budget includes squirreling away savings earmarked for specific funds--such as unexpected car repairs, local day camps, a small amount for travel, etc. In any case, I knew we would have to watch every single cent this year. While I haven't been as religious about using <a href="https://www.swagbucks.com/refer/daniellefilipko">Swagbucks</a> as I did when I had a savings goal (Disney) in mind, I like knowing I had a little bit of an extra buffer outside of our savings account. We do hope to take another big vacation (my 7-year-old has read all 7 Harry Potter books since Christmas, so we are thinking a split stay between Universal/a few days at Disney) eventually, but between my husband's school and ultimately (hopefully) him finding a full-time teaching job right after, the earliest we could do it would be summer 2022. So if I can even slowly start saving for the prospect of that, it would just be a bonus.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">So what do I do now? Swagbucks can absolutely be time consuming. I'm not nearly as obsessed with hitting my daily goal each day so I dabble where I am able. That being said, I've already cashed out $180 just from Swagbucks in 2020. As far as much less time consuming apps, these are what I have been using regularly:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWC59z2axVeRjmfPx7ahiVQII-3SdIoox1hFjNcODC0KYSdyyJC5YLQXQ77lUt-6ER_2POFSSxUbbBKpifj6MXuIv4VQR6Mf5ciWN2nyLh2T3kipjxjGeHazCxaQGVOH4bxSIT0Ue5m4bU/s1600/IMG_4783.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="591" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWC59z2axVeRjmfPx7ahiVQII-3SdIoox1hFjNcODC0KYSdyyJC5YLQXQ77lUt-6ER_2POFSSxUbbBKpifj6MXuIv4VQR6Mf5ciWN2nyLh2T3kipjxjGeHazCxaQGVOH4bxSIT0Ue5m4bU/s640/IMG_4783.PNG" width="290" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">1. <a href="https://www.myachievement.com/">Achievement</a>. This is an app that you sync with your Fitbit (or other similar fitness tracker) app and it passively earns points which can be cashed out to $10 in PayPal once you hit 10,000. It is a slow earner, but you don't really have to do anything specific with it. If you open it periodically there are short bonus surveys which can lead to more lucrative offerings. For instance, I was offered a spot in a clinical study about the flu in 2020. Just by answering brief surveys through an Achievement portal, my flu study could net me up to $106 depending on how diligently I participate this year. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">2. <a href="https://www.swagbucks.com/refer/daniellefilipko">Ibotta</a> (referral link if you use code beavlaf at registration). To use Ibotta, you search for stores you normally shop at (mostly grocery stores) and clip coupons in the app for products you plan to buy. When you complete your purchase you upload a snap of your receipt and receive credit back. This can be cashed out once you hit $20 to PayPal, Venmo, or a variety of gift cards. So far I've earned $667.42 just by using it!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">3. <a href="https://www.receipthog.com/">ReceiptHog</a>. This is an app that you just snap a picture of any receipt you receive and it uploads to the app. You earn coins for receipts and you can also earn bonus surveys for extra coins. These coins can be cashed out to Amazon or Visa gift cards or PayPal. Since I began using this app I have earned $80 and I am on the cusp of earning another $25. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">4. <a href="https://fetchrewards.onelink.me/vvv3/referralemail?code=FB2WH">Fetch Rewards</a> (referral link, use code FB2WH during sign-up to get a bonus $2). This is similar to ReceiptHog except it's only for stores that sell groceries. You cash out to a variety of gift cards ranging from Amazon to Dunkin to Target (and a lot more). So far I've earned $53 and I am almost to another $10 reward.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">5. <a href="https://app.adjust.com/oqlq9t9?label=PPTWZQ1N">ReceiptPal </a>(referral link, we both get bonus points if you use it to sign up). This is just like ReceiptHog except you are limited to how many receipts you can upload per week. You can cash out to Amazon or other retail gift cards. I couldn't quickly figure out how much I have earned from this app since I began using it, but I currently have enough for a $10 reward (I am saving until I hit $50) and I believe I earned over $25 last year.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">6. <a href="https://www.coinout.com/">Coinout</a>. Same idea as ReceiptPal. Snap pics of any receipt and get coins which can be cashed out to PayPal, your bank or a gift card. So far I have over $5 in it and I cashed out $15 last year. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">7. <a href="https://go.rakuten.com/DANIEL36231?eeid=44748">Rakuten </a>(formerly ebates. Referral link - you'll get a $10 welcome bonus if you use it and spend $25). I installed the Rakuten button for my browser and it alerts me whenever a site has a cashback option. You simply click to activate the cash back and then do your online shopping. Once a quarter they either cut you a check or send it to your PayPal. My lifetime earnings are $457.41 and that's just for doing online shopping like I normally would.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">8. <a href="https://getsk.co/kind845803">Shopkick</a> (referral link, use code <span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;">KIND845803</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222;"> to get bonus kicks when you sign up).</span> You open this app before walking into stores to get walk-in kicks and you can scan specified barcodes in stores to earn kicks also. These can be cashed out to PayPal or gift cards. I haven't been nearly as diligent using this since we did Disney but I do still open it when I walk into stores that have kicks available. I've cashed out $85 since I began using this app.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">9. <a href="https://b.ewd.io/code?c=xc2te">Drop</a> (referral link, use code xc2te to get $5 in credit). I have been using this app way more since we came back from Disney. The reason is because I do a ton of Walmart Grocery pickup. If you place the pickup order through Drop, you earn 3000 points ($3) each time! These points can be cashed out to gift cards like Gap, Macy's, Domino's, etc. I have found the easiest way to use it is to build my grocery pickup order on my computer (while logged into my Walmart account) and then just submitting the order through Drop. I've earned $30 already and I am $2 away from an additional $30. You do have to link a credit card to this app for it to work, but I have had zero issues with security since I began using it early last year.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I know this seems like a lot of work, but snapping receipts takes me less than a minute total across all the apps. When you are living close to paycheck to paycheck, it is easy enough to get in the habit of using these. The pay-off has been worth it for me and it's a great way to make a little extra money.</span></div>
Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-61698417225389542662019-09-03T04:04:00.000-07:002019-09-03T04:04:01.734-07:00recent amazon buys<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibhyphenhyphenIn5LLNTT8a7-Dfc50VfG63jt4eyuIwjOQP03I-7QzrxXmFRAEE1-dJPyzFDPAq_nw0WaeovnZ5IGA-Y_iiW1waOuIktXX_S7y4xpTjYJNCs1HTjFsYiNZ76Symd_D0fwr2BdWexozZ/s1600/pinkalicious.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="499" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibhyphenhyphenIn5LLNTT8a7-Dfc50VfG63jt4eyuIwjOQP03I-7QzrxXmFRAEE1-dJPyzFDPAq_nw0WaeovnZ5IGA-Y_iiW1waOuIktXX_S7y4xpTjYJNCs1HTjFsYiNZ76Symd_D0fwr2BdWexozZ/s320/pinkalicious.jpg" width="317" /></a></div>
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My youngest is obsessed with Pinkalicious, so when I saw <a href="https://amzn.to/2LfjPSN">this Halloween book</a> on sale for $2.76 I couldn't pass it up!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5T0B8EpXmuDSONtcxSBT-55EpWEMXjVz7b13X7VG6KBC08uL0QdWnkF1dfWoYKTJ5JE_vOj7-hdst48uMFW8ISkO8HWHA8-0F72U4n7N-rLvG9DbdSHe76lPiz6tiHpAh7S56m2XqZOu/s1600/sunscreen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="453" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5T0B8EpXmuDSONtcxSBT-55EpWEMXjVz7b13X7VG6KBC08uL0QdWnkF1dfWoYKTJ5JE_vOj7-hdst48uMFW8ISkO8HWHA8-0F72U4n7N-rLvG9DbdSHe76lPiz6tiHpAh7S56m2XqZOu/s400/sunscreen.jpg" width="266" /></a></div>
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I'm by no means a 'crunchy mom' but I am pretty obsessed with trying to only buy super safe personal care items like sunscreen, laundry detergent and dish soap. I use <a href="https://www.ewg.org/">EWG</a> as a handy reference to determine what products are safest. So when I found <a href="https://amzn.to/2ZIXSj7">this highly rated (per EWG) sunscreen</a> on sale for just over $5 I snatched it up for our upcoming vacation.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvV9W5lEfeR54mn8-EcLl8NXG-RbDeQt4xh0bbnQxBQSl4nMBij1ebd8Euj_wboLrF7dMvkGhLGajjr7aOvvN3Ep4vuZGKGZmYtPRHpGxUNwhwx0Yf0IvReEFCFNaAI786lNDjaK15UhC/s1600/robot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1500" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSvV9W5lEfeR54mn8-EcLl8NXG-RbDeQt4xh0bbnQxBQSl4nMBij1ebd8Euj_wboLrF7dMvkGhLGajjr7aOvvN3Ep4vuZGKGZmYtPRHpGxUNwhwx0Yf0IvReEFCFNaAI786lNDjaK15UhC/s400/robot.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Speaking of deals, I was able to snag <a href="https://amzn.to/2ZN6LIi">this Builder Bot Toy</a> for the toy closer for a mere $5!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDMIXbbrT1A7hGuZtLuMJbHZbJ4hETA_EKUS3CzlnujcF4RW9OQEWo7Ce5IXqxcakpzKo4FNortlpK_SHJS22TgYernlF6aYGcCDOckANlY049IpPOtnDn8Q6b7-Kx9bnevZwvZqz8ED8L/s1600/leo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="676" data-original-width="311" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDMIXbbrT1A7hGuZtLuMJbHZbJ4hETA_EKUS3CzlnujcF4RW9OQEWo7Ce5IXqxcakpzKo4FNortlpK_SHJS22TgYernlF6aYGcCDOckANlY049IpPOtnDn8Q6b7-Kx9bnevZwvZqz8ED8L/s320/leo.JPG" width="146" /></a></div>
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My littlest is getting ready to start gymnastics so I snagged <a href="https://amzn.to/2NSECxr">this cute leotard</a> for about $12.</div>
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Note: affiliate links used. Linking up with <a href="https://txtanya.blogspot.com/">Tanya</a>. </div>
Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-25815024156538253302019-04-11T05:38:00.003-07:002019-04-11T05:38:48.978-07:00how to get round-trip airfare for a family of 5 for freeAs we prepare for our upcoming Disney vacation, one cost I did not have to worry about was airfare. We signed up for the <a href="https://www.referyourchasecard.com/223/JHOPK914IB?fbclid=IwAR1dEzW9B59_ro-n29TPQ_tI54keFBgcq2g-H02bVgFjNJ0lavdZvMieV7Y">Southwest Chase Visa</a>* where every dollar we spend earns us points we can use on airfare. The best part? If you charge $1000 on your new Southwest Rapid Rewards card within the first three months of opening it, you earn 40,000 points.<br />
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When we signed up for the card we easily hit our charge requirement in the first month by charging our groceries, utilities, and gas for our cars. Those 40k miles go a <i>long</i> way if you book the most affordable Wanna Get Away fare. You also earn 3000 points on the anniversary of opening your card and 1 point per $1 charged to your card. Our Southwest Visa is our primary card (we pay it off in full each month) and those points really do add up fast. There is a $69 annual fee, but considering we would have spent close to $1000 in airfare for the five of us, the annual fee is worth it.<br />
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Even better? If you book a flight and notice your fare drops in points after you've booked, you can easily rebook the same flight and get refunded the point difference! Simply login to your account on Southwest's website, click My Account at the top, and scroll down to the flight information for the flight you want to change. There is a Change link right beneath that - if you click it you can re-select your original flight and it will tell you what your credit is. I actually just rebooked our flights to Florida this morning because they had dropped in point value from about 8000 points per person to 4186 points per person!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_DYeLBiIWQX9OLxDNWaKy3Vl5DleSm8qVjPqVEk1GG45YutxhicpoobZKJh-juJV5BZuG4IY4CQ6UI77HZrhHPmeBNEdEqBXSS_QG8Yqqa2ZkDYhUpk_itGJuS4Hh-unlctafT3HVx8Oe/s1600/57176981_10213936367149756_7077953550864613376_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="360" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_DYeLBiIWQX9OLxDNWaKy3Vl5DleSm8qVjPqVEk1GG45YutxhicpoobZKJh-juJV5BZuG4IY4CQ6UI77HZrhHPmeBNEdEqBXSS_QG8Yqqa2ZkDYhUpk_itGJuS4Hh-unlctafT3HVx8Oe/s400/57176981_10213936367149756_7077953550864613376_n.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
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What's even better is you can use your points for more than just airfare--Southwest has a rewards store that includes products ranging from designer clothes and bags to lawn equipment to gift cards for retailers such as Disney, Alamo and Amazon. The 14,875 points I saved by checking the flights daily and rebooking is almost enough for $125 in Disney gift cards. You can roll your savings from rebooking to make your vacation even more affordable! If you travel even once per year, this reward card is definitely worth it, especially since it's been our experience that Southwest is the most family-friendly airline.</div>
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*Affiliate link used. Thank you for supporting BMB!</div>
Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-67204774325134279072019-04-02T05:57:00.002-07:002019-04-02T05:57:23.605-07:00prime purchases: disney must-have shopping list{clear I always love seeing what people are buying these days! Thought I'd join a link-up and share what I've bought for Disney because we moved our trip up to this fall! We hoped to squeak it in right before Star Wars Land opened, but of <i>course </i>they are moving ahead of schedule so now it is opening around a month before we leave! Anyway, after extensive research, here are a few things we've bought this month:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielJL63W0kqXEGnQ51NO4EIN6tesI36GnG8CRH6ctUv-GQgnq1JCOHgMxNFDZ2WBHePCccWyJP1Rru4mA3xIaluxayab_4cKsRuZQURiv3bLBgFD6SA-xeWTaA1Ozr47XVp7zIxyp5umKE/s1600/91BGTdnA9cL._SX679_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="635" data-original-width="679" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEielJL63W0kqXEGnQ51NO4EIN6tesI36GnG8CRH6ctUv-GQgnq1JCOHgMxNFDZ2WBHePCccWyJP1Rru4mA3xIaluxayab_4cKsRuZQURiv3bLBgFD6SA-xeWTaA1Ozr47XVp7zIxyp5umKE/s320/91BGTdnA9cL._SX679_.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{<a href="https://amzn.to/2Usr7rL">cooling towels for that hot Florida sun</a>}</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGSKJvyWta_dftAbXQf5ZIpR5tX22qjiCkc1Z-QQfhaFHG_yquYlElRaAN0_mSp6vKBSfL9VTvujq-5UsSeo_FG4MycrHMsCO8r1C53yi1Q3rTjmbD-CJr9w4AJ1JGk4VRbxqR4OQXiwQq/s1600/51oi3h7a15L._SX679_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="679" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGSKJvyWta_dftAbXQf5ZIpR5tX22qjiCkc1Z-QQfhaFHG_yquYlElRaAN0_mSp6vKBSfL9VTvujq-5UsSeo_FG4MycrHMsCO8r1C53yi1Q3rTjmbD-CJr9w4AJ1JGk4VRbxqR4OQXiwQq/s320/51oi3h7a15L._SX679_.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{<a href="https://amzn.to/2TQgWJh">silicone fasteners so our Magic Bands don't fall off</a>}</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZaD0gC0zTDNFFmiaTbGM0SB_agUa2QUWP-Nc5hY8zMmhdOn_fbCxUK_OHWntkFgH80QH9bv8m8FP14cHQDoOiHzRrg_pE_m2YgoWWr6okHR6bwGEHEwfwtQTzWm8S1Vzpgfm-U3BpZJNJ/s1600/81IBPJXCBKL._SX679_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="654" data-original-width="679" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZaD0gC0zTDNFFmiaTbGM0SB_agUa2QUWP-Nc5hY8zMmhdOn_fbCxUK_OHWntkFgH80QH9bv8m8FP14cHQDoOiHzRrg_pE_m2YgoWWr6okHR6bwGEHEwfwtQTzWm8S1Vzpgfm-U3BpZJNJ/s320/81IBPJXCBKL._SX679_.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{<a href="https://amzn.to/2WGRasU">clear bags for the stroller to expedite time in security lines</a>}</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu8jV_tlZB7fUm1MBLtiP9tBFFM46G7-FoUCvbHqSw1julx4XiW-Oo4oZaDRQUdaQQjYeYe1ina4c8mhh3K8aDyCwSN7BK4PO7DpayrbhLAA0pew3WK8UXfrMPimI_RTj51hxWUTxZvzCP/s1600/812EJksqzLL._SL1500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu8jV_tlZB7fUm1MBLtiP9tBFFM46G7-FoUCvbHqSw1julx4XiW-Oo4oZaDRQUdaQQjYeYe1ina4c8mhh3K8aDyCwSN7BK4PO7DpayrbhLAA0pew3WK8UXfrMPimI_RTj51hxWUTxZvzCP/s320/812EJksqzLL._SL1500_.jpg" width="255" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{<a href="https://amzn.to/2WMq6Zl">misting fan</a> because Florida}</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDeSXAozWkSsTC9IkDB39-b7Y9k8b5c2C5_JKXRR5BB95BYVMzPUpVH9xajwgS3mFqNhQMdQkJRtS1fXWuEoxbg1zw9IWoUfe2IOv5k3METLCD2u2i0G6Mgi9AkbNU1cBQyHQKMiSZUayR/s1600/untitled.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDeSXAozWkSsTC9IkDB39-b7Y9k8b5c2C5_JKXRR5BB95BYVMzPUpVH9xajwgS3mFqNhQMdQkJRtS1fXWuEoxbg1zw9IWoUfe2IOv5k3METLCD2u2i0G6Mgi9AkbNU1cBQyHQKMiSZUayR/s1600/untitled.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{<a href="https://amzn.to/2WFQUtT">phone charger bank</a> since you use for phone to check wait times, schedule fast passes, etc.}</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTjmoQ1oOmJq1xBFhdtLUsnmpJWV1T00_Q055Lqz1V3m8Zcyw7-0rXFVX06Jlh-iyqC5g0tffDhI_DiwVdVusJeDDYd9QcP4RIam8oOjT-PlU5CbozNN2QJa-R85sPO3A1_8EhdI15M3H/s1600/81f%252BF5PeowL._SX679_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="679" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTjmoQ1oOmJq1xBFhdtLUsnmpJWV1T00_Q055Lqz1V3m8Zcyw7-0rXFVX06Jlh-iyqC5g0tffDhI_DiwVdVusJeDDYd9QcP4RIam8oOjT-PlU5CbozNN2QJa-R85sPO3A1_8EhdI15M3H/s320/81f%252BF5PeowL._SX679_.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{<a href="https://amzn.to/2WF1YaP">disposable rain ponchos</a>, because unexpected rain storms and who wants to carry around a wet poncho?}</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIj2CXn7BghTeJ8zCHduNCJjPdbY7L0Bsv272Nh4AVFKfFtLOv8OEmNMsSM3GBm-JxC9KFVL0yHfRRF30dbOsy5ZTZzCb3cE7ksmclpGp0sTzkjqkz_wotB3pRpxNVjeEYgc3yvXVKr7eI/s1600/61%252BZfwqgDoL._SX679_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="679" data-original-width="679" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIj2CXn7BghTeJ8zCHduNCJjPdbY7L0Bsv272Nh4AVFKfFtLOv8OEmNMsSM3GBm-JxC9KFVL0yHfRRF30dbOsy5ZTZzCb3cE7ksmclpGp0sTzkjqkz_wotB3pRpxNVjeEYgc3yvXVKr7eI/s320/61%252BZfwqgDoL._SX679_.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{<a href="https://amzn.to/2I7tkSX">water filter bottles</a> because rumor has it the fountain water from Disney does not taste great and these can be filled then squired into respective Contigo cups}</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgijhoZqxocjs4ZNZrt6kLzN_IhwDDhYAIPnYjQYWqAl0zX86Yafv-nxHmOzDEtMH709xWLO5V_U6e_NoB0jrn9myQVBpCjgi2raLi7g6vHaI0O5klEZ8fziMV2-3I6XxxsWt2ctOytu4vI/s1600/71sImMtXUpL._SL1500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1500" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgijhoZqxocjs4ZNZrt6kLzN_IhwDDhYAIPnYjQYWqAl0zX86Yafv-nxHmOzDEtMH709xWLO5V_U6e_NoB0jrn9myQVBpCjgi2raLi7g6vHaI0O5klEZ8fziMV2-3I6XxxsWt2ctOytu4vI/s320/71sImMtXUpL._SL1500_.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">{<a href="https://amzn.to/2FRppIz">this belt</a> because I can't bring myself to do a bonafide fanny pack and I don't want to carry a purse!}</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Other items we are planning on taking into the park include: hand sanitizer, baby wipes/diapers, sunscreen, bug repellent, snacks (granola bars, fruit pouches, etc.), some bottled water (for when we aren't near a fountain), a change of clothes for each kiddo/an extra pair of shoes in case one pair gets really wet, first aid kit and lip balm.</div>
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Linking up with <a href="http://txtanya.blogspot.com/">Tanya</a></div>
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Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-18201264315053553812019-01-14T05:06:00.000-08:002019-01-14T05:06:01.803-08:00Money Making App Spotlight: Drop<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OqCi0MDXRrc3g4E1Vol9_DMFoLPx-XG5UyWF_Bd4VFJJtWYHsG_mL8wGa5egWxkLbJRCY-iG3ujHoUOEJc2cIqg2rNxr-bZpS5rbky_fBbtVyWzqEQyr4FjKq3vBnrqRrSfnfsJ2Nuv2/s1600/IMG_4855.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_OqCi0MDXRrc3g4E1Vol9_DMFoLPx-XG5UyWF_Bd4VFJJtWYHsG_mL8wGa5egWxkLbJRCY-iG3ujHoUOEJc2cIqg2rNxr-bZpS5rbky_fBbtVyWzqEQyr4FjKq3vBnrqRrSfnfsJ2Nuv2/s640/IMG_4855.PNG" width="360" /></a></div>
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If you're familiar with <a href="https://busymombargains.blogspot.com/2018/10/money-making-app-spotlight-dosh.html">Dosh</a>, <a href="https://b.ewd.io/code?c=xc2te&fbclid=IwAR2w6es8efSNvCvC3IojX0KeDfwsNLeqFbyuh3akOs1IH4LiKvjL952OItI">Drop</a> is a similar concept. You download the app, create an account and link a credit card. When you create your account, though, you get to select 5 retailers that you shop at the most to get an even higher percentage of cash back on your transactions. The best part? The options are amazing! Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts, Whole Foods, Target, Trader Joe's, Lyft, etc. Then every time you use your linked card at those locations, you earn points towards gift cards. Link the card once and periodically check in to redeem and that's it! They do have extra "power" offers where you can earn extra (for instance, $40 back at Blue Apron) that are always changing, but this is totally not required. Plus, if you sign up with <a href="https://b.ewd.io/code?c=xc2te&fbclid=IwAR2w6es8efSNvCvC3IojX0KeDfwsNLeqFbyuh3akOs1IH4LiKvjL952OItI">my referral link</a>, you will get $5 automatically when you link your first card.Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-24364745642249241652019-01-11T04:41:00.000-08:002019-01-11T04:50:46.858-08:00latelyHave you ever found yourself just existing? That sounds really depressing and I don't mean it to--existing in a way that is neither good nor bad, it just is? I feel like that's where I've been since November. Things aren't bad, not exceptional either. They just <i>are</i>. Anyway, I discovered that when I am just going through the motions I don't necessarily feel the need to write or be creative. I've mentioned missing blogging to a few people but it was never enough to really make me want to do it. Life is crazy in this season and I don't want to pressure myself to carve out time for something if passion doesn't strike. It struck in this moment (passion is a strong word to use though, ha!) so here we are.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWAew06tsRv9qCyvI2mdfGTm3v35urYVhlnBBXoK-_-Fd7-Mst7UNQQsTSqlnnuy5jGK7SYrTPD5JGYXnSPWDAZGc-v_eTVH-XGyXua6F0LZlCux1RSzYV3bk7Es9mC6DqIAV_qwNmuh4/s1600/IMG_3872.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWAew06tsRv9qCyvI2mdfGTm3v35urYVhlnBBXoK-_-Fd7-Mst7UNQQsTSqlnnuy5jGK7SYrTPD5JGYXnSPWDAZGc-v_eTVH-XGyXua6F0LZlCux1RSzYV3bk7Es9mC6DqIAV_qwNmuh4/s400/IMG_3872.JPG" width="300" /></a></div> 1. I am in full-blown Disney planning mode. It is looking like we may be going as early as February 2020 (originally I just figured we'd do the second half of the year, though that may still end up being the case depending on crowd levels when the new Star Wars portion of Hollywood Studios opens this fall!) By using my plethora of money-making apps + Swagbucks, I have our vacation 72% saved for! That includes 2 character meals (Cinderella's Royal Table + Ohana, probably), 3 park days / 6 vacation days, a car rental, an Airbnb, parking at Disney, and about $500 worth of spending money for the week! Not too shabby for just a year's worth of very minimal effort!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLacRJNaeC6UjwJt7UJkdDGJ50W11_bMMpMIt8xGD2LdHRQRnhZg_fNNAlMrrzHNgea1OL4nPAADsed2jn26kCpn_FMUuIqrnY9MohdS4Z59VxCbh8qKS7Qz8O04vclJCXWG_rUGKZkTE/s1600/IMG_4652.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLacRJNaeC6UjwJt7UJkdDGJ50W11_bMMpMIt8xGD2LdHRQRnhZg_fNNAlMrrzHNgea1OL4nPAADsed2jn26kCpn_FMUuIqrnY9MohdS4Z59VxCbh8qKS7Qz8O04vclJCXWG_rUGKZkTE/s320/IMG_4652.JPG" width="320" /></a></div> 2. I am loving every second of start-up life. If you are new around here, I left a very stable job in August for the very unpredictable world of tech start-ups. It was definitely a leap of faith and thus far I have no regrets. We get pet visitors usually weekly (thanks to coworkers and their love of animals!), I can take as much time off work as I need when I need it, and they even surprised us all with a totally unexpected cost of living raise this year. 2019 is going to very much be a make-or-break year for us and we hope to launch our first product this fall or early next year.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmaE3eovK8syOW7e_dAgJy7Y7M4ytNbwxv2ldkjUN-G3oguceBLh77pQXac6RoYtOEhlOzu53NzR-R1OxBgHe0AKJztgW97k4YCL5A7O12SN_pSIpZs5d_jPCZfyS6X3omli2sOCcg1Mg/s1600/IMG_4770.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmaE3eovK8syOW7e_dAgJy7Y7M4ytNbwxv2ldkjUN-G3oguceBLh77pQXac6RoYtOEhlOzu53NzR-R1OxBgHe0AKJztgW97k4YCL5A7O12SN_pSIpZs5d_jPCZfyS6X3omli2sOCcg1Mg/s320/IMG_4770.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> 3. I am still impulsive when it comes to house projects, much to Jon's dismay. I ironed (yes, ironed, using a wet washcloth as a buffer between the iron and the wall) the super bold wallpaper off our half bathroom walls last weekend. Our bathroom still looks like this and I don't really have a game plan yet because the walls don't look like they were ever skim-coated when the house was built. I may try to spackle the worst parts and then just hope for the best... but even if I did that we don't know what color we want to paint it (Jon mentioned something about dark blue and some sort of damask pattern, I believe). Taking suggestions!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiocpcmLehZX7vcc2dWCbaiC-Sk70_TwAfrn9bKCIdS4dqaEskabmzq73xuCDJ1ckilPWgy6xrlOqJmvawN7-Y6Xj_eSuT3l0YJBkXfmqnXquppEIjEu52lSNm8POigQsqUeZpQOFY_yY8/s1600/IMG_4786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiocpcmLehZX7vcc2dWCbaiC-Sk70_TwAfrn9bKCIdS4dqaEskabmzq73xuCDJ1ckilPWgy6xrlOqJmvawN7-Y6Xj_eSuT3l0YJBkXfmqnXquppEIjEu52lSNm8POigQsqUeZpQOFY_yY8/s320/IMG_4786.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> 4. Winter is finally here. I hate all of it except for the adorable 90% off Target Christmas pajamas we got for this big girl. 49 days until spring!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRocm_iOlKbeRR6EEeA2qqMpcWgA5_V4_BW_7x-yBaIu-m2uZY7jJPFdmpmmN-95cu7b8XfJ0QDM4Hc6otHuZa7-X35YPNe0mnPFm3ToffptNC3gQufkXVkLfXJxED-4nuSEzIaQ-9qjA/s1600/IMG_4790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRocm_iOlKbeRR6EEeA2qqMpcWgA5_V4_BW_7x-yBaIu-m2uZY7jJPFdmpmmN-95cu7b8XfJ0QDM4Hc6otHuZa7-X35YPNe0mnPFm3ToffptNC3gQufkXVkLfXJxED-4nuSEzIaQ-9qjA/s320/IMG_4790.JPG" width="240" /></a></div> 5. I am trying very hard to lose 22 pounds. I've been using my <a href="http://www.protrackerapp.com/">ProTracker app</a> daily and also trying to exercise at least 5 days per week. Thus far it is (slowly) working because I am down 6.8 pounds since December 26. I can't be sure, but I think this is the least I've weighed since I last gave birth way back in 2016.Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-59212331443465357262018-11-02T06:36:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:46.929-08:00Money Saving Products: Ecoegg<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7C8lBjzWx3ZJHHJqDnZWYD8DTiZf9kNAMrZ2Giu4SnHPGfdB9z-_bP6ioBXvfvYQcsLfRQ2qXTGiAoXTGYi2HXKVuQh8J2Ousdt1yK8DNB3LStIRlFRV7zdniaF0XSleomdqVIpZyRuo/s1600/ecoegg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="1231" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7C8lBjzWx3ZJHHJqDnZWYD8DTiZf9kNAMrZ2Giu4SnHPGfdB9z-_bP6ioBXvfvYQcsLfRQ2qXTGiAoXTGYi2HXKVuQh8J2Ousdt1yK8DNB3LStIRlFRV7zdniaF0XSleomdqVIpZyRuo/s400/ecoegg.jpg" width="327" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Have you ever heard of this!? The <a href="https://amzn.to/2yK5pn6">Ecoegg</a> is an entirely natural solution that replaces laundry detergent for 720 loads! For $34.99 you could do several years worth of laundry. Furthermore, the company offers a 10-year guarantee. Considering how expensive detergents, especially natural ones, cost these days, this product could save you hundreds of dollars.</div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-52851125695051151632018-10-28T21:01:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:46.969-08:00just a little PSA<div style="text-align: center;">If you live in Cuyahoga County, early voting is happening now! </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwQhYK8uasNt4p_He8DDjJy9WkZ1AWBWI7821RozGEkZMob9CSUFLxSLnYrMt-WtKVShgOS6wEGwjH8tZ6ACVgYwB0nANntfKyRVUpXBWHQZiTRgTAINYw7iq7Vmly8VY42KSr39QRk3w/s1600/IMG_2383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1280" data-original-width="960" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwQhYK8uasNt4p_He8DDjJy9WkZ1AWBWI7821RozGEkZMob9CSUFLxSLnYrMt-WtKVShgOS6wEGwjH8tZ6ACVgYwB0nANntfKyRVUpXBWHQZiTRgTAINYw7iq7Vmly8VY42KSr39QRk3w/s400/IMG_2383.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Make sure you get out and vote! Our futures depend on it. :)</div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-77052123911958804322018-10-25T21:01:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:47.013-08:00Money Making Website Spotlight: Swagbucks Daily Poll (Part IV)<a href="https://www.busymombargains.com/2018/10/money-making-website-spotlight.html">Part I</a>, Part II and Part III. I highly recommend you start from the beginning before diving in or it will get very overwhelming very fast.<br /><div><br /></div><div>Yesterday I discussed completing my To Do list every day. The first item on this list is the Daily Poll. You can find the Daily Poll in two sections: clicking the hyperlink in your To Do list will take you directly there. Otherwise, you can find it under Answer on the left sidebar of Swagbucks' website:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiorl13lACuvAxV-agYGCSnadXKAarinjTVULXczmVhdNBJsbpdeM1SEG39MnoIn3kcPRETPKwPnRtpiKLBfSHpo9BTHBIf9i1froAiqt8FZ9XXC4wtNRCLDbrMeMKepOLheaVf_wNL3TI/s1600/answer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="261" data-original-width="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiorl13lACuvAxV-agYGCSnadXKAarinjTVULXczmVhdNBJsbpdeM1SEG39MnoIn3kcPRETPKwPnRtpiKLBfSHpo9BTHBIf9i1froAiqt8FZ9XXC4wtNRCLDbrMeMKepOLheaVf_wNL3TI/s1600/answer.JPG" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis_-NOm2TCWoDNjbK2US1K-Bp0Y19DPfAEDZGSC4Gwv1NYN9ho5j_rPjnVapXojR0O6Ps677eT9t7Z1rPv_P8WMjTkcHKktiGW_YGMcpqH0GuNNQzQfzm8j5aTsKl2ldVrXn634xQEyO8/s1600/poll.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="161" data-original-width="1009" height="102" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis_-NOm2TCWoDNjbK2US1K-Bp0Y19DPfAEDZGSC4Gwv1NYN9ho5j_rPjnVapXojR0O6Ps677eT9t7Z1rPv_P8WMjTkcHKktiGW_YGMcpqH0GuNNQzQfzm8j5aTsKl2ldVrXn634xQEyO8/s640/poll.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Once you click this link, you are redirected to a simple poll question. You will receive 1 SB for answering the question. This resets to a new question every day. It takes less than 10 seconds to complete.</div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-71827273986206601852018-10-24T21:01:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:47.049-08:00Money Making Website Spotlight: Swagbucks Dashboard (Part III)<a href="https://www.busymombargains.com/2018/10/money-making-website-spotlight.html">Part I</a> and Part II can be found here. I highly recommend you start from the beginning before diving in or it will get very overwhelming very fast.<br /><br />So as indicated in Part II, the first thing I do every day is hit my blue goal.<br /><br />The second thing I do is complete my daily To Do list. This list can be found on the left sidebar of the Swagbucks home page (if you are on mobile you may have to scroll down a bit.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5XAPoD8qI7EvLGPgp4NIJGtMBSGDqthu0V1j-YPeYLAVSFKfbYLiQMRdhN0lg4CxFifl66TUfBc2Jx8OSyHALWhIki01MEZu6He0nEkWXYgtZjZ5SMal1-5JGU3MVpwm82asbQ3XVyoM/s1600/to+do.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="577" data-original-width="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5XAPoD8qI7EvLGPgp4NIJGtMBSGDqthu0V1j-YPeYLAVSFKfbYLiQMRdhN0lg4CxFifl66TUfBc2Jx8OSyHALWhIki01MEZu6He0nEkWXYgtZjZ5SMal1-5JGU3MVpwm82asbQ3XVyoM/s1600/to+do.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Just like hitting your blue goal results in bonus SBs, so does completing your To Do list each day. Furthermore, by completing the list you are earning SBs towards your goal, so it is a win/win. Each of the items listed here are hyperlinks and will take you to the appropriate area on the Swagbucks website to fulfill the item. Some of them you don't have to do anything beyond clicking it (Daily Search and Deal of the Day) whereas others you have to actively try to complete the task, like the Gold Survey. The Gold Surveys will be the most trying of your patience and perseverance. In the following days, I will be breaking down each of these sections individually.</div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-30525116658804073282018-10-23T21:01:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:47.089-08:00Money Making Website Spotlight: Swagbucks Dashboard (Part II)There are multiple avenues to earn money from Swagbucks. Before I dive into those sections, there are a few basic principles I follow every day to get the biggest bang for my buck. The first is to always hit my blue goal (which will sound foreign if you are unfamiliar with Swagbucks).<br /><br />Once you <a href="https://www.busymombargains.com/2018/10/money-making-website-spotlight.html">login to Swagbucks</a>, you will notice a Daily Goal section at the top of your page.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN7qTA1UZMDUFvirVp3Hof8rCHDa4f15t8HS4uCn5NOMRWBFgzfWgEYsl16SsKA2GduDJadTgrpmfw7KF84hMdcZKxu4zRFxdmB1KFg6h_n2W_yjt4jDRCZQ4K4tOqBE57Uc_h79p5xPE/s1600/daily+goal.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="98" data-original-width="1600" height="34" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN7qTA1UZMDUFvirVp3Hof8rCHDa4f15t8HS4uCn5NOMRWBFgzfWgEYsl16SsKA2GduDJadTgrpmfw7KF84hMdcZKxu4zRFxdmB1KFg6h_n2W_yjt4jDRCZQ4K4tOqBE57Uc_h79p5xPE/s640/daily+goal.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br />If you click on your Daily Goal, it will list out two sets of numbers - one is in blue and one is in red. It will say Goal 1 / Bonus 1 for the blue goal and Goal 2 / Bonus 2 for the red goal. Essentially, if you earn the specified amount of Swagbucks (SBs) listed in your Goal 1, you will earn bonus SBs, as indicated in Bonus 1. In my case, if I earned 99 SBs that day, I would get a bonus of 7 SBs. These bonuses are paid out by the 5th of each month.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIIN47raEtVU9vGwRhL0ew0YTFVVfS2oLuhY6wpfmQSEUn47ugSDahG6nv7Go0tReCemIREN4TBProshOa0qvn-EDCrGouQq9oopBcrZ2WFEc3FJSCsSXEhRJViopRCsobCazwpOgxI9I/s1600/blue+goal.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="367" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIIN47raEtVU9vGwRhL0ew0YTFVVfS2oLuhY6wpfmQSEUn47ugSDahG6nv7Go0tReCemIREN4TBProshOa0qvn-EDCrGouQq9oopBcrZ2WFEc3FJSCsSXEhRJViopRCsobCazwpOgxI9I/s400/blue+goal.JPG" width="342" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Why do I care about hitting my daily blue goal? Because of the Winning Streaks, as indicated at the bottom of the daily goal screen.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcXsMpNWbzDMeJXiD42xmSzUEkQshoe9eI5e_80w_XiUsgOnykLCihyjYd7sgBeMguQxd-aNFVoGFVJtG3d3W_jpRV0pd4j8hwzMFsT8VJYLO0yXxh2zjpnBABspvoPNvUv15V_1AAF8o/s1600/winning+streak.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="537" data-original-width="357" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcXsMpNWbzDMeJXiD42xmSzUEkQshoe9eI5e_80w_XiUsgOnykLCihyjYd7sgBeMguQxd-aNFVoGFVJtG3d3W_jpRV0pd4j8hwzMFsT8VJYLO0yXxh2zjpnBABspvoPNvUv15V_1AAF8o/s1600/winning+streak.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Winning streaks are another way to earn bonus SB. If you hit your blue goal every day each month, that earns you $3. So just by hitting my daily blue goal (note: red goals are NOT counted towards the winning streak so do not stress if it is far too high) you are getting bonus SBs for the goal itself but also towards a bigger payout. The winning streak awards also hit before the 5th of the next month. And that's it! Your goal will increase if you consistently hit it, but I have never seen my blue goal exceed 115 SBs. Weekends are also a lower blue goal to make hitting it easier. My personal goal is to hit at least 100 SBs ($1) per day regardless of what my blue goal says. It hasn't been particularly challenging to do.</div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-70780741151317417112018-10-22T21:01:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:47.123-08:00Money Making Website Spotlight: Swagbucks (Part I)Swagbucks is a website you can use to earn money for doing tasks like watching videos, answering surveys, or shopping through their link (similar to <a href="https://www.busymombargains.com/2018/10/cash-back-website-spotlight-ebates.html">Ebates</a>). I had started using Swagbucks many years ago but after a handful of failed survey attempts and making literally pennies I threw in the towel.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6hLVtdTkFwFHYV0EYUwGxcbCwSrG9NaPvDlvIbVZWH7LhDs3rBWj0ZuNBYmsb1EczieUB1GoYM2D8xPYwYL-fBkK7In9ulLJxluli-zDacx0EnO8J-m4kF6Zn5glcOAkwiHAURPO03Z0/s1600/swagbucks.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="990" data-original-width="1600" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6hLVtdTkFwFHYV0EYUwGxcbCwSrG9NaPvDlvIbVZWH7LhDs3rBWj0ZuNBYmsb1EczieUB1GoYM2D8xPYwYL-fBkK7In9ulLJxluli-zDacx0EnO8J-m4kF6Zn5glcOAkwiHAURPO03Z0/s640/swagbucks.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Fast forward about five years and suddenly I am trying to save for a Disney vacation on a budget that doesn't leave much left at the end of each month. I couldn't justify siphoning this little bit of money away for something frivolous so I decided to figure out how people were able to use Swagbucks to fund their Disney vacations. I did a ton of research and finally understood it all. You can cash out to a variety of gift cards (including PayPal) from Swagbucks. 100 Swagbucks (often referred to as SBs) are the equivalent of $1.<br /><br />Swagbucks is somewhat of a complicated beast. For the sake of brevity, I will be writing multiple posts just to make it easier to understand. So far, I have earned close to $2400 using Swagbucks and I started using it actively in December 2017. My Disney vacation (which won't be happening until sometime in 2020) is half funded thanks to it. I spend less than an hour per day using Swagbucks and that is spread out throughout the day so it isn't a huge commitment. If you have an hour to mindlessly scroll Facebook each day, you have an hour to make money! It is all about your mindset: this isn't typically a huge immediate payout (though there are exceptions!). But if you are saving for something long-term and are patient, it really does add up.<br /><br />So how do you get started? First, <a href="http://www.swagbucks.com/refer/daniellefilipko">create an account</a>.<br /><br />Disclaimer: if you sign up using my referral link, Swagbucks will match 10% of your earnings and give it to me (so you don't lose anything, they just pay out above and beyond to whoever refers you). If you don't want me to benefit from you using Swagbucks, by all means - don't use my link. But if you do use my link, I genuinely appreciate it as it does take time (and money) to keep this blog going.<br /><br />Anyway, once you create an account you will want to get acclimated with the different sections of Swagbucks. I will start taking you through each section and what I personally do every day over the next several posts.Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-75640114603172062632018-10-21T21:01:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:47.159-08:00Money Making App Spotlight: ShopkickShopkick is an app that's a pretty slow earner (at least for me) but is really easy to use (once you form the habit!). Essentially, you earn 'kicks' for things like walking into a store, scanning specific product barcodes, watching short video clips, and sometimes buying specific items. These kicks can be redeemed for gift cards to places like Walmart, Amazon, TJ Maxx, Target, Disney, etc.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUOY3MnXaN9TfZRebJyq8r1DJcwv5jo-Gyqjjl4FhMcj1g6WL0LZYTO6khF1-eO-JWqfJqzNQV8lAZzSnJwZ2Gfk8L1JNCZ1ODGmo3jDLq19qs-gfBndsB1_B6_5ReCvZgpUAabqaB_yo/s1600/IMG_2228.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUOY3MnXaN9TfZRebJyq8r1DJcwv5jo-Gyqjjl4FhMcj1g6WL0LZYTO6khF1-eO-JWqfJqzNQV8lAZzSnJwZ2Gfk8L1JNCZ1ODGmo3jDLq19qs-gfBndsB1_B6_5ReCvZgpUAabqaB_yo/s640/IMG_2228.PNG" width="360" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>I use Shopkick the most at Target when we are already there doing our regular shopping. I almost always get a walk-in (15-50 kicks usually) for having the app open while entering the store, then I can usually get up to 400 or so kicks per visit by scanning specified item barcodes.<br /><br />Also, every day, I click into the Discover section of the Shopkick app. There will be short video clips (less than 30 seconds) in here that have a kick value associated with them. There are always 3 quick kicks available per day and usually there will be one or two more videos for 3-5 kicks as well.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgu2u4lnDy8hrDNLB09iBSGCbxVXEYLn8k7vvoJaJy8pSM9i8M93xXX4JE6Mu1mY2G_Nuogvz6tppgPPaJ3fJl6GhSjyvMBM2YRtNG5ViUzPMr27vvOeiBnpNrKWg3iFfb41zSUbt_1AA/s1600/IMG_2229.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgu2u4lnDy8hrDNLB09iBSGCbxVXEYLn8k7vvoJaJy8pSM9i8M93xXX4JE6Mu1mY2G_Nuogvz6tppgPPaJ3fJl6GhSjyvMBM2YRtNG5ViUzPMr27vvOeiBnpNrKWg3iFfb41zSUbt_1AA/s640/IMG_2229.PNG" width="360" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">I've already earned one $25 Disney gift card and I am more than 80% of the way to my second. If you use <a href="https://getsk.co/kind845803">my referral</a> and complete your first walk-in or scan within 7 days of joining, we will both earn 250 kicks.</div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-56839910351080622922018-10-21T16:11:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:47.205-08:00$4, 4-minute DIY no sew children's ponchoI recently scored a very cheap poncho on Amazon thanks to a coupon code. As soon as my oldest daughter saw me wearing it, she asked for one also. Since we are on a tight budget and I didn't know if she would wear it, I ventured out to find a cheap alternative. Jon and I managed to make each of our kids one for less than $5/kid. The best part? All we had to do was make some cuts and it took less than 5 minutes to do!<br /><br />We used 3/4 yard of fleece for each of the girls (they are 4 and almost 2) and 1 yard for our very tall 6-year-old. The 2-year-old had a lot more extra fabric than the 4-year-old so we probably could have gotten away with a 1/2 yard for her.<br /><br />The process is easy!<br /><br />1. Trim the fleece so it has straight edges (doesn't have to be critically straight since it will just hang).<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3GlY7-iPEFrd0C_Js7sz7Kal1wU9MSoPWGqMGJUKR13ZtAdaLZmtQRJKaBdt9H2JC1fu5qBpPQ4tC9uie-SKDJUj4Zdz5QnvV9ZPNq8f3jztolkLvyXTs21vWpbKkPqAEUSq5PO6rMAo/s1600/IMG_2286.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3GlY7-iPEFrd0C_Js7sz7Kal1wU9MSoPWGqMGJUKR13ZtAdaLZmtQRJKaBdt9H2JC1fu5qBpPQ4tC9uie-SKDJUj4Zdz5QnvV9ZPNq8f3jztolkLvyXTs21vWpbKkPqAEUSq5PO6rMAo/s400/IMG_2286.JPG" width="300" /></a></div> 2. Fold the fleece in half diagonally.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn0hASO67flh8mApL_DdKHafbXWbdMT5nWAAU4jby4JXHIxoz_cXr_j7Efkb6dDDlsqUm4_tnuIt_mQilShhpjvSGRJU9rVomnkD_0bn9N1RLoQKGC-OnH1cfKYeT7UDtwjnZFlUOtNic/s1600/IMG_2287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn0hASO67flh8mApL_DdKHafbXWbdMT5nWAAU4jby4JXHIxoz_cXr_j7Efkb6dDDlsqUm4_tnuIt_mQilShhpjvSGRJU9rVomnkD_0bn9N1RLoQKGC-OnH1cfKYeT7UDtwjnZFlUOtNic/s400/IMG_2287.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> 3. Use a cup--yes, a small drinking cup--to trace your line. START SMALL! We initially tried with a children's bowl and it was way too big. Fleece is stretchy and you want the head hole to be smaller than your child's head. Place your cup half on the fleece in the center.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWlU6axnVQBzO42W0UJdPs6jjjcxZIp0UvkleBgv7aJU-YbBu3tY13a7PdvKaYemnnBPaklN4bdPxHIuJp7IezvU3ehyphenhyphenkCKcm96QW5yOXzzkacocPa4GA04CslUZQ0jgKjPRD31cekLzg/s1600/IMG_2288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWlU6axnVQBzO42W0UJdPs6jjjcxZIp0UvkleBgv7aJU-YbBu3tY13a7PdvKaYemnnBPaklN4bdPxHIuJp7IezvU3ehyphenhyphenkCKcm96QW5yOXzzkacocPa4GA04CslUZQ0jgKjPRD31cekLzg/s400/IMG_2288.JPG" width="300" /></a></div> 4. Trace the cup with a sharpie.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKseh7e50zak1s8sV7A-LzWoT5CCCNK3cb2J1Q7MoREtYEUTpm2oKBsYsxpObaap92GIL2vXa48zwAsw14FC6QgTrViaJzwMK-lB608LVtXJ7WxUb-ohc6mMr019yS3CczzbdKkc-aVdk/s1600/IMG_2289.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKseh7e50zak1s8sV7A-LzWoT5CCCNK3cb2J1Q7MoREtYEUTpm2oKBsYsxpObaap92GIL2vXa48zwAsw14FC6QgTrViaJzwMK-lB608LVtXJ7WxUb-ohc6mMr019yS3CczzbdKkc-aVdk/s400/IMG_2289.JPG" width="300" /></a></div> 5. Cut along your line and see how that fits your child.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAAFSOZI7mpRGwZ_p_h3DydaSFeoh-nU05hUUQswxKJEVMhfXIhQTdCzEn7_ZiSTp42Z0i25EZSd12DGygyJ_KyC2g9lXgRNzoz4E_yAE1flxI9ZnSXqJKmMPP7u3Gfd3vW2Oq2DpS8jM/s1600/IMG_2290.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAAFSOZI7mpRGwZ_p_h3DydaSFeoh-nU05hUUQswxKJEVMhfXIhQTdCzEn7_ZiSTp42Z0i25EZSd12DGygyJ_KyC2g9lXgRNzoz4E_yAE1flxI9ZnSXqJKmMPP7u3Gfd3vW2Oq2DpS8jM/s320/IMG_2290.jpg" width="240" /></a></div> If necessary, slightly enlarge the hole.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRyJQ65m5OFXCV1hlXxLHDCeC5bDo_mxb24gmkjTAslYBqivI9x4OYUeeKeESRStl8p1HYam-6iBSIHRcHM1IhWY79zwWNWGfhF0q-6arqqeACSqzzVsbqu-yZqsPi7_yc51TKvkC288c/s1600/IMG_2291.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRyJQ65m5OFXCV1hlXxLHDCeC5bDo_mxb24gmkjTAslYBqivI9x4OYUeeKeESRStl8p1HYam-6iBSIHRcHM1IhWY79zwWNWGfhF0q-6arqqeACSqzzVsbqu-yZqsPi7_yc51TKvkC288c/s320/IMG_2291.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>Voila! I may try to add some fringe or something to the edges, but for now this was hands down the easiest and cheapest project we've undertaken to date.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl6E0n4mVlkvbIRsw5HmVia27EA81XssGd4ijB3Zo6QYc6_WU9UX6_Zg9TjKg0akThtFA4a-CN_mferC-MRFnq62VPKXkSKvIyHWrOmEICjqPRhm39rLNqIbyVkLSMuHYA6JeJOoE8caw/s1600/IMG_2295.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl6E0n4mVlkvbIRsw5HmVia27EA81XssGd4ijB3Zo6QYc6_WU9UX6_Zg9TjKg0akThtFA4a-CN_mferC-MRFnq62VPKXkSKvIyHWrOmEICjqPRhm39rLNqIbyVkLSMuHYA6JeJOoE8caw/s640/IMG_2295.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-65032988263463157512018-10-19T21:01:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:47.245-08:00Mixed Diet Meal Plan - Week of October 20thOne of the biggest ways I save money is by meal planning. I know you've probably heard it before, but it's true. If we do a good job sticking to a meal plan, we can feed our family of 5 for about $600 per month. Jon is vegan, our youngest is allergic to dairy but is not vegan, and the rest of us are omnivores (though I lean more vegetarian than carnivore). Having different dietary restrictions can be a total pain in the butt and makes meal planning all the more important. Generally speaking, I try to plan our meals around the Aldi weekly specials because I can usually get the biggest bang for my buck that way. I also try to incorporate ingredients I might not use all of for one meal into the other meals for the week (for example, when a recipe calls for a stalk of celery) to minimize waste.<br /><br /><u>Saturday</u><br />Meal: <a href="https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/228859/slow-cooker-french-onion-soup/">Slow cooker French onion soup</a> (use dairy-free cheese for the youngest)<br />Groceries Needed: onions, beef broth, baguette, shredded cheese<br /><br /><u>Sunday</u><br />Lunch: <a href="https://www.gimmesomeoven.com/cozy-autumn-wild-rice-soup/">Gimme Some Oven's cozy autumn wild rice soup</a> (vegan)<br />Dinner: It's our oldest daughter's birthday and she requested Costco pizza<br />Groceries: mushrooms, wild rice, vegetable broth, spinach, sweet potatoes<br /><br /><u>Monday</u><br />Meal: Sweet potato tacos (vegan and dairy-free)<br />Groceries: salsa, avocado, flour tortillas<br /><br /><u>Tuesday</u><br />Meal: Leftovers<br />Groceries: None<br /><br /><u>Wednesday</u><br />Meal: Coworker cookout<br />Groceries: none - company is providing food<br /><br /><u>Thursday</u><br />Meal: Spaghetti (vegan and dairy-free)<br />Groceries: marinara sauce<br /><br /><u>Friday</u><br />Meal: <a href="https://veganyackattack.com/2017/08/13/rosemary-chickpea-salad-sandwich/">Chickpea salad sandwiches</a> (vegan and dairy-free)<br />Groceries: none (covered by other groceries)<br /><br />Weekly Aldi sale items on our grocery list:<br />-4-ct. avocados: 3.29<br />-chopped kale: 2.79<br />-3-lb. bag of Bartlett pears: 1.99<br />-2-lb. bag of Honeycrisp apples: 1.69<br /><br />Weekly <a href="http://www.marcs.com/Weekly-Ad">Marc's</a> sale items on our grocery list:<br />-3-lb. bags of many apples (seriously, Jon will buy probably 4 bags): 2 for $4<br /><br />Weekly Giant Eagle sale items on our grocery list:<br />-red seedless grapes: 0.99/lb.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-26789067863816986182018-10-18T21:01:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:47.274-08:00Cash Back Website Spotlight: Bing<a href="https://www.bing.com/">Bing</a> is probably the most underused rewards program in the 'budget mom' demographic. Jon is actually the one who introduced me to it. Essentially, if you sign up for a free <a href="https://outlook.live.com/owa/">Microsoft Live</a> email account, you can earn rewards for searching the internet using the Bing search engine. Those rewards can then be redeemed for gift cards to stores like Target. Jon and I hoard all these gift cards we earn and use them to pay for the kids' birthday and Christmas gifts when the end of the year rolls around. As it stands now, if I do all of my daily Bing searches (you get bonuses for consecutive days of meeting your searches and extras, more on that below) we earn a $5 gift card about every 10 days. That may not seem like much, but it's over $180 per year when you figure in bonus points for something that takes me maybe 5 minutes per day to complete.<br /><br />So how do you start? First, create your live account. Then you can login to Bing with it.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaFwuC008ZeWPgfMDCSYhHtI2p4sW4V8ky_oYoe2sFTEtdxGIksljxE5zwxJi44ghbY1Qmy4U6VUfaqfRtHA3fGevnDHqas5iYtQmx3Pm-SJEAUxUXpqvGvcA-onm3AVqgw0czsBtFngo/s1600/Bing+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="851" data-original-width="1600" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaFwuC008ZeWPgfMDCSYhHtI2p4sW4V8ky_oYoe2sFTEtdxGIksljxE5zwxJi44ghbY1Qmy4U6VUfaqfRtHA3fGevnDHqas5iYtQmx3Pm-SJEAUxUXpqvGvcA-onm3AVqgw0czsBtFngo/s640/Bing+1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> Do you notice those squares on the bottom of Bing's homepage? If you click each one individually, they will give you points for searching. To see how many points you've earned (there is a cap each day) you can click on the little medal icon on the top right of the Bing home page.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYecRiJPlxaVNm9jVK0qbxFmAafma8NCOAAnaYNUumqa1GDYlRHTBpaLdS9kqcGZq7x9Yj6n6CVRnqWWnsc7UuWseD3twf7B5-fcEqPu02hP4w0u_21jkfV9cWIxODEzvDjjMTo9SVEDE/s1600/Bing+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="851" data-original-width="1600" height="340" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYecRiJPlxaVNm9jVK0qbxFmAafma8NCOAAnaYNUumqa1GDYlRHTBpaLdS9kqcGZq7x9Yj6n6CVRnqWWnsc7UuWseD3twf7B5-fcEqPu02hP4w0u_21jkfV9cWIxODEzvDjjMTo9SVEDE/s640/Bing+2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> Clicking the medal icon brings up this little drop down, where you can click to See All.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGtHZ5ONVnzXMj1XktUc_BX_sk5mJJQP_cGc_dRN1NlHLOJnQslrYYvoAMjarlCi4DU1y3vNyxzbyQucSEO27yrvdT_WYc6BCDClgQh6k5SdAmW2JGn_pbWwEADBkI2KmTqpIVjTAATbE/s1600/Bing+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="469" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGtHZ5ONVnzXMj1XktUc_BX_sk5mJJQP_cGc_dRN1NlHLOJnQslrYYvoAMjarlCi4DU1y3vNyxzbyQucSEO27yrvdT_WYc6BCDClgQh6k5SdAmW2JGn_pbWwEADBkI2KmTqpIVjTAATbE/s640/Bing+3.JPG" width="504" /></a></div> Once you do that, you are redirected to this page.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9rtAAi_h4cFR9045JS-70Yh75cies8vuypViQ7bUWlxoFXV-Sn_Or2r0BRg8gzMkTgUH4mSn8uyLIT4OMX5kgh8nkkCbK7QeCO0_StPTelu3LA4uwlNUqYnh9tHWbrlhpsDXgYrnl3Ak/s1600/Bing+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="762" data-original-width="1600" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9rtAAi_h4cFR9045JS-70Yh75cies8vuypViQ7bUWlxoFXV-Sn_Or2r0BRg8gzMkTgUH4mSn8uyLIT4OMX5kgh8nkkCbK7QeCO0_StPTelu3LA4uwlNUqYnh9tHWbrlhpsDXgYrnl3Ak/s640/Bing+4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> This page is your rewards dashboard that tells you how many points you've earned for the day. Every day it also offers extra ways of earning points - polls, quizzes, and just generic clicks will earn you anywhere from 10-50 points. It's these extras and either your desktop or mobile searches that earn you points towards a daily streak.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6hFGQeOvJ6YwM-of7CANXQMbpjv6KCpcFZxz7WLz_AJnK2rgd6ZO2YJZj2J-IYzbEMMn6duEa0jbqaPea360Z1rI7bkpbheD7e5M7u16itB8qp4X3caQShPtXuCjZnjF1FE3Nj0eBlto/s1600/Bing+5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="849" data-original-width="1600" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6hFGQeOvJ6YwM-of7CANXQMbpjv6KCpcFZxz7WLz_AJnK2rgd6ZO2YJZj2J-IYzbEMMn6duEa0jbqaPea360Z1rI7bkpbheD7e5M7u16itB8qp4X3caQShPtXuCjZnjF1FE3Nj0eBlto/s640/Bing+5.JPG" width="640" /></a></div> Right now, I've been good about hitting all my goals for the past 107 days.<br /><br />If you click the Points Breakdown link on the top of your rewards dashboard, this pops up:<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpskM7LkeLTSWZ5Orw4RuXMLvNBrbTHxGiK_Kg6H6eWkvMnKunTcGEeDQvTMjtVWesalYYPXjya287l4-LVB0lBnd2jgzEGyZCLcExxtJq_oRgVNvELbbjGRzTiCjyw0Z88RVmRGkBaGU/s1600/Bing+6.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" data-original-height="770" data-original-width="783" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpskM7LkeLTSWZ5Orw4RuXMLvNBrbTHxGiK_Kg6H6eWkvMnKunTcGEeDQvTMjtVWesalYYPXjya287l4-LVB0lBnd2jgzEGyZCLcExxtJq_oRgVNvELbbjGRzTiCjyw0Z88RVmRGkBaGU/s320/Bing+6.JPG" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">This tells you all the points you've earned each day. You can use Bing on your phone to hit your mobile search goals (just make sure your Live account is logged in!). The Microsoft Edge bonus is for searches done on Bing in their browser--formerly Internet Explorer. PC search is the Bing searches done on your laptop.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">It is so easy to do this. For my PC searches I always start by clicking all the boxes on the home page. Sometimes that fills up my PC goal for the day. If not, I can just start typing words into the search bar and I'll just search ones that auto-suggest. For my mobile searches, I usually just start typing and then choose a longer auto-generated search option. Then I will go and delete one letter at a time, hitting enter after every deletion as that counts as a new search. Doing this has really reduced the birthday gift burden on our family!</div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-24401149131332922722018-10-17T21:01:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:47.303-08:00Cash Back Website Spotlight: Ebates<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjicgM5_EgT_7Fo3RY964ENKm9hVtdjvEEb4S2ZdlDfq29x4OXpFfSF9JKBA7UTdAfbj9HXkPNJPjCx4vJkgI7uN99K8ZWsLAEOwthMtVKtCLP9GEakAujQvJtpyjA8QYb03wAEmIqxbSs/s1600/ebates.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="712" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjicgM5_EgT_7Fo3RY964ENKm9hVtdjvEEb4S2ZdlDfq29x4OXpFfSF9JKBA7UTdAfbj9HXkPNJPjCx4vJkgI7uN99K8ZWsLAEOwthMtVKtCLP9GEakAujQvJtpyjA8QYb03wAEmIqxbSs/s1600/ebates.JPG" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ebates Chrome extension notifies you when cash back is available</td></tr></tbody></table><a href="https://www.ebates.com/r/DANIEL36231?eeid=28187">Ebates</a> is a cash back website that allows you to earn a percent of your purchases back. The exact percent back varies - they often do sales where you might get as much as 12%-20% cash back. You can either navigate to Ebates first, then search for the store you want to shop at to be redirected there, or you can install their Google Chrome extension and it will automatically notify you if there is a cash back offer on a site you are browsing. If you create an Ebates account using <a href="https://www.ebates.com/r/DANIEL36231?eeid=28187">my referral</a>, you will earn $10 back after your first qualifying purchase. Ebates pays either via PayPal or a check. Just by activating the Ebates extension, I've earned $230 back over the past two years. When I need to make a purchase online, I always compare cash back offers between Ebates, Swagbucks and Ibotta to see which has the highest percent. This is another really easy way to earn money back for purchases you need to make.Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-65983875060383579552018-10-16T21:01:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:47.336-08:00Money Making App Spotlight: Dosh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHYYnVbOd-WZ8uMlEmCTU3EsL5aMp69F7g-QsobeZIJp2HeZ-UzS-EY4DYFgYgtwXJit9B5rxzQV4UcjRKHxqbofPxqEKICG7bIZDCpiOSgXtSUZ9pIq24g1YhCCP19XLLWL9pv4vfM5E/s1600/IMG_2131.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHYYnVbOd-WZ8uMlEmCTU3EsL5aMp69F7g-QsobeZIJp2HeZ-UzS-EY4DYFgYgtwXJit9B5rxzQV4UcjRKHxqbofPxqEKICG7bIZDCpiOSgXtSUZ9pIq24g1YhCCP19XLLWL9pv4vfM5E/s400/IMG_2131.PNG" width="225" /></a></div>The last app I'm going to focus on for now is <a href="https://link.dosh.cash/yhSMJZW2VQ?f=r">Dosh</a>. Dosh is similar to Ebates but on local purchases. For Dosh, you create an account and link your credit card. If you make a purchase at an establishment that is part of Dosh and use your linked credit card, you will automatically get cash back. If you download the app using <a href="https://link.dosh.cash/yhSMJZW2VQ?f=r">my referral link</a> and link a credit card, you will automatically get $5. Once you get to $25, you can transfer your balance to your bank account.Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-61346002983881469932018-10-15T21:01:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:47.370-08:00Money Making App Spotlight: Achievement<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwKD2rvjevol29UdUwr5rjl4lsUw8VbcMvuzIW3MnDqeD3xqb4Yo2YvfZ6yqMaTUbJZGujmIeaDn6dZtZF8f-g2TR9q4dbxY1_1IIauQbRvIG9IneaSQsZT4xxOBisk3vTd4lxa2f5JZ4/s1600/IMG_2129.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwKD2rvjevol29UdUwr5rjl4lsUw8VbcMvuzIW3MnDqeD3xqb4Yo2YvfZ6yqMaTUbJZGujmIeaDn6dZtZF8f-g2TR9q4dbxY1_1IIauQbRvIG9IneaSQsZT4xxOBisk3vTd4lxa2f5JZ4/s640/IMG_2129.PNG" width="360" /></a></div><a href="https://www.myachievement.com/">Achievement</a> is the easiest app to use. It is a very slow earner, but it is an earner nonetheless. If you have a fitness tracker (I have <a href="https://amzn.to/2RME4J1">this Fitbit</a> and I LOVE it), Achievement syncs to your tracker app and imports your data. You get points for activities--including logging food and water intake, sleep and weight--and once you get to 10,000 points you can redeem for $10 PayPal or direct deposit. You never actually have to open the Achievement app if you don't want to, though they do offer occasional surveys (usually just one yes or no question) for some extra points if you do. I love the passivity of the app but ability to redeem for real money. So far I've only redeemed once, though I am close to redeeming a second time. For next to no effort, though, I'll take it!Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-49782218722544473802018-10-14T21:01:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:47.400-08:00Money Making App Spotlight: Ibotta<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpUcRk84SEzCrMHKr_xOlwuQSBK9KtyFThiJFchJYlEy9Hq0WsYSoQTo-aBoG2jg3zho52ol3UN-Oqf72-XmcNGB5VF3z8n-HIKaKfsK7UrVWfwe-JScHvcy2bvlq9-uAIJRmpEHAtQR8/s1600/IMG_2128.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpUcRk84SEzCrMHKr_xOlwuQSBK9KtyFThiJFchJYlEy9Hq0WsYSoQTo-aBoG2jg3zho52ol3UN-Oqf72-XmcNGB5VF3z8n-HIKaKfsK7UrVWfwe-JScHvcy2bvlq9-uAIJRmpEHAtQR8/s400/IMG_2128.PNG" width="225" /></a></div><a href="https://ibotta.com/r/beavlaf">Ibotta</a> is just slightly more intensive than <a href="https://www.busymombargains.com/2018/10/money-making-app-spotlight-receipt-hog.html">Receipt Hog</a> or Fetch Rewards. Ibotta serves as a mobile coupon source. They have approved retailers that get offers for specific products. The way I use Ibotta is I make a grocery list (most of the offers are food-related) and before I go I always check the Ibotta app to see if there are any coupons for anything I need to buy. If so, I will write down the details on my grocery list (because sometimes it's more cost effective to buy a store brand even with the Ibotta offers) for reference later. I will also note if there are specific terms (sometimes the coupons may require you to buy more than 1 or there is a limit on how many times you can redeem it) that may influence my decision. After I go shopping, if there is any overlap in what I bought and Ibotta, I just take a photo of my receipt and upload it to Ibotta.<div><br /></div><div>Ibotta is more than just a grocery store app, though. You can also shop through the app online and get a certain percent back on your purchases. When I need to make an online purchase, I always compare Ibotta's cash back with Ebates and Swagbucks, which I will go into later. Once you hit $20, you can cash out to PayPal, Venmo, or a variety of gift cards. If you use <a href="https://ibotta.com/r/beavlaf">my referral link</a> to sign up, you will earn $10 after redeeming some offers. I started actively using Ibotta last summer and I've already gotten nearly $340 back.</div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-22569585187114549132018-10-13T21:01:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:47.431-08:00Recent Budget Buys<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm always on the hunt for the best deal possible. Earlier this week, Jon and I took the kids to Target. We had just inventoried our winter wardrobe and realized none of them had boots that fit. That's a necessity in Ohio! Jon checked the Target app and noticed a 20% off shoes coupon that was expiring that day, so off we went. Of course, the girls quickly discovered something very <i>not </i>winter-friendly: high heels! <a href="https://www.target.com/p/toddler-girls--disney-princess-dress-ballet-flats---pink-10/-/A-53300304">This pair</a> to be exact. Originally we said no, but upon further review, I noticed I had an extra 20% off coupon for being a Red card holder in my Target app. Between these offers and my 5% Red card discount, that brought these shoes from $19.99 to about $12.15/pair! So we decided to live spontaneously and got them each a pair. They've been a <b>huge </b>hit ever since, only made sweeter by the sweet deal we scored.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMvM2dGBkpFAFuh8T-Fxzby-YaeofXe3b34U6klSV4N6OQFsJ8N-45wI8OyjTVmxXtPolLjIPnLCrtKbuYnkO0syxc-pPri3aw9HGos84bzHIz54gN1zOMaTgYq7GzYBZvFqEGYgK6sY/s1600/IMG_2114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuMvM2dGBkpFAFuh8T-Fxzby-YaeofXe3b34U6klSV4N6OQFsJ8N-45wI8OyjTVmxXtPolLjIPnLCrtKbuYnkO0syxc-pPri3aw9HGos84bzHIz54gN1zOMaTgYq7GzYBZvFqEGYgK6sY/s320/IMG_2114.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>This isn't really a budget buy, but my favorite wins on <a href="https://winitapp.com/">Win It</a>! are those that are worth $5! I haven't discussed this yet as this app is affiliated with Sears and Kmart--who might be filing for bankruptcy in the next few days--so the app might go away. If they don't, expect a post all about how I get my household essentials (and sometimes more!) for free soon.<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8raTti38ohTUAOD4eKeS8kSuaw9gdJKxU2J9ko4ZcfZnk-betI021ahFx_U3y_qovTndUpl2rMAqdq1Y-N7Zn4AopBMx3vuuE1Zu5LZ1Fo3hHhRoEBeL0n_BjbIzYTbmJazVcw0pCvGs/s1600/IMG_2117.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="640" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8raTti38ohTUAOD4eKeS8kSuaw9gdJKxU2J9ko4ZcfZnk-betI021ahFx_U3y_qovTndUpl2rMAqdq1Y-N7Zn4AopBMx3vuuE1Zu5LZ1Fo3hHhRoEBeL0n_BjbIzYTbmJazVcw0pCvGs/s320/IMG_2117.PNG" width="180" /></a></div>We went from close to 90-degrees to about 50-degrees in Ohio this week. The kids wanted to go to the playground and forgetting just how cold 57-degrees can feel, we acquiesced. I regretted it immediately, especially since I didn't bring a sweater. After about half an hour of playing in the wind, we called it and headed home. That cold weather called for our first hot chocolates of the season! I got my son's mug on clearance at Target last December (post-Christmas sales for the win) for less than a dollar. The girls had Santa and Christmas tree mugs from the same sale. These are the kids' favorite things about hot chocolate!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaWS1ZJyZoJN9YqoqArXG3AXSeX_MGUQEyGRF8WvTQxkvQgO64Ym6Iq8vtZzprqsNRMHjANtxUW1R2cS_I71i0ZtcsTlx-Lu1WGuKPReiWzOJBd-MB-RemUG5f2jDGFQZDd3eWuXqd9vM/s1600/IMG_2127.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1422" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaWS1ZJyZoJN9YqoqArXG3AXSeX_MGUQEyGRF8WvTQxkvQgO64Ym6Iq8vtZzprqsNRMHjANtxUW1R2cS_I71i0ZtcsTlx-Lu1WGuKPReiWzOJBd-MB-RemUG5f2jDGFQZDd3eWuXqd9vM/s320/IMG_2127.JPG" width="284" /></a></div>On Thursday, Shutterfly offered an amazing sale - a TON of freebies if you just pay shipping (which they usually jack up in price for the freebies to recoup their losses). We're talking free puzzles, memory games, bags, mugs, notepads, prints, coasters, ornaments, luggage tags--the list goes on and on. Well, there was also a coupon where if you spent at least $10 and ordered in the app you could get free shipping. So that's exactly what I did :)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9SF0zvmx503vdCvFtcOK3KzvSpx2qFkdI7aWR7S1982WocYXk6oED7AeHfSKaAW_Uss0LCbTPfmnDvdKevw410F5ILan7knTe3g9s8N8uT-KRO8sABUCieWjRn5cKT5PBQE7Vkpk-6HM/s1600/IMG_2130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="468" data-original-width="640" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9SF0zvmx503vdCvFtcOK3KzvSpx2qFkdI7aWR7S1982WocYXk6oED7AeHfSKaAW_Uss0LCbTPfmnDvdKevw410F5ILan7knTe3g9s8N8uT-KRO8sABUCieWjRn5cKT5PBQE7Vkpk-6HM/s320/IMG_2130.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">$12.95 for $250 worth of products? I'll take it!</div>Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-404340408131868615.post-49299650733086523922018-10-12T21:01:00.000-07:002019-01-11T04:50:47.463-08:00Money Making App Spotlight: Fetch Rewards<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo6DYfrsNJvUG7IXttY2zHo6ZKnXcwrRLx2aqzEAagQ6uS88cDUWLhyphenhyphenhrrDhxaR7ZAYiR5d-V4MoA7XCU2u-nT2w6M35GItVXw_ZGkX6qD16LWO0m8hvuBb_D1Gl8jcCXRYtkPyDJnIks/s1600/IMG_2105.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1136" data-original-width="640" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjo6DYfrsNJvUG7IXttY2zHo6ZKnXcwrRLx2aqzEAagQ6uS88cDUWLhyphenhyphenhrrDhxaR7ZAYiR5d-V4MoA7XCU2u-nT2w6M35GItVXw_ZGkX6qD16LWO0m8hvuBb_D1Gl8jcCXRYtkPyDJnIks/s640/IMG_2105.PNG" width="360" /></a></div><a href="https://www.fetchrewards.com/">Fetch Rewards</a> is very similar to <a href="https://www.busymombargains.com/2018/10/money-making-app-spotlight-receipt-hog.html">Receipt Hog</a> in that you are just taking a picture of a receipt and uploading it to an app. Unlike Receipt Hog, though, Fetch only takes grocery store receipts (or stores like Target where groceries are sold). Fetch is affiliated with specific brands, so you get rewards for purchasing those brands (these brands include Cape Cod, Hershey's, Pepperidge Farms, and Quaker). However, even if you do not purchase an affiliated brand, you often get rewarded just for submitting your receipt. Just like Receipt Hog, Fetch uses points which convert to gift cards. To earn a $3 gift card you will need 3000 points. Gift cards include Amazon, Target, CVS, Kohls, and so many more. If you use my referral code, FB2WH, when you sign up, you will earn 2000 points when you scan your first receipt. So far I have redeemed $30 worth of gift cards from Fetch Rewards.Daniellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06800574480509232152noreply@blogger.com0