Monday, March 4, 2013

Lemons, lemons, lemons



When life brings you lemons . . . rejoice!!

We are lucky enough to be blessed with a healthy lemon tree on our property, along with limes and sour oranges.  We love cooking with them, but there are so many other uses for lemons!  Since I have an overabundance of sour oranges, I plan on experimenting to see if they are as effective as lemons.

Did you know that lemons can be frozen whole?  Place whole lemons in a bag to keep them all in one place.  Thaw them out when you are ready to use them. The juice will taste fresh, however, the texture of the lemon will be soggy.

Jillee of One Good Thing, one of my very favorite blogs, has written numerous posts on the many uses of lemons.  Her latest post is all about the health benefits of lemons, which also includes links to past posts on other uses for lemons.  Check out the rest of her blog while you are there . . . love her DIY recipes, a must for other frugalistas out there!

Click here to go to the article


Sunday, October 7, 2012

Glory Foods Gift Basket Giveaway



What is better than Southern comfort
 food homemade from scratch?

The answer is a Southern comfort
 food made from Glory Foods products!


Glory Foods is the category leader in Southern-style, heat-and-serve products including seasoned canned vegetables, cooking bases, hot sauces and fresh greens. They have an array of ready-to-eat and fresh products, including spinach, fried apples, low-sodium green beans, cornbread mix and fresh kale.


How would you like to win
free gift basket full of 
Glory Food products?  

Frugal Follies is hosting a giveaway!
Click here to enter!

This giveaway ends on Friday,
 October 26, 2012, at 12:01 am.







Friday, October 5, 2012

Paradise Grove Avocado Giveaway


The avocado is one of my favorite things!

My latest discovery is using it in place of mayonnaise for a chicken salad sandwich.  Usually I love to have it mixed in a salad or serve sliced with salt and pepper.

Life in the Lost World is hosting a giveaway for a box of Haas Avocados from Paradise Grove Avocados  . . . click here to enter.

Hurry!  The giveaway ends on October 23!


Sunday, September 30, 2012

Homemade Deodorizing Disks



Being a fabulous frugalista sometimes means making your own stuff.  Actually, I prefer homemade items for cleaning since I control what goes into it.  No more toxic fumes and burnt, stuffy nose from my old method of using bleach and other harsh chemicals for just about everything.

Let's face it, cleaning items are expensive!  It doesn't matter how many coupons you gather up, it adds up quickly . . . unless you have a free coupon.

You probably already have the simple ingredients in this recipe for deodorizing disks . . .


  • 2 cups baking soda
  • 1 – 2 cups distilled water (or you can boil your water for 10 minutes.)
  • Lavender essential oil (or whatever oil you choose. Citrus would be good too!)
  • Silicone mold or muffin pan


  • Click here for the tutorial from one of my favorite blogs . . . One Good Thing by Jillee.



    Thursday, September 20, 2012

    WOW! $600 Gift Card Giveaways!! Ends tonight!!



    It has been a while, but I'm back in the swing of entering sweepstakes and giveaways!

    The world of giveaways, sweepstakes and freebies has exploded since I last participated.  I'll be featuring my favorite ones regularly!

    Tonight I went on a mission of finding awesome sweepstakes and sought out an old friend, Icefairy's Treasure Chest.  I hit the jackpot of giveaways in just one blog!!  I've placed her blog button on my sidebar . . .


    icefairy's Treasure Chest

    Rather than try to explain it myself, I'll use her words . . .
    This month I've teamed up with some great blogs to give you the chance to win over $600 in cash or gift cards! Each participating blog is giving away a gift card or cash prize valued at $25 or more. Be sure to enter them all and receive one extra entry for each giveaway you have entered! 
    The bad news is that all the giveaways end September 21, so hurry up and enter the giveaways . . . I love gift card giveaways!

    Click here to go there!




    Sunday, July 22, 2012

    Natural Lemon Vinegar Cleaner (updated)



    This cleaning recipe is a frugalista's dream!

    I'm really excited about finding so many natural cleaners without toxic chemicals to use around the house.  Especially when it is stuff I already have!  

    Our lemon and lime trees produce lots of fruit, so there is an abundance of lemon and lime peels that usually get throw into the compost pile or the trash.  And I always keep a large jug of white vinegar to keep the drains clean and smelling good!

    Click here for instructions . . . can't wait to try this cleaner!



    UPDATE:  
    Click here for 25 uses for lemon peels
    from One Good Thing by Jillee



    Tuesday, July 10, 2012

    Clothes dryer problems?


    Appliances are one of those things that I hate to go out and buy.  Being the frugal person that I am, all home remedies are exhausted before even calling the repair man . . . they are very expensive too!

    It has been a while since the clothes dryer has been acting up and not drying the clothes in one cycle. We would have been grateful for two drying cycles!  It would take forever to get laundry done!

    After cleaning out the lint vent and replacing the thermostat (ugh, the part alone was expensive . . . The Captain changed it out, saving on labor costs), it still was not working properly, although a little better.

    Stubbornly frugal and still not wanting to give in and buy an expensive dryer, I decided to do some digging around the internet to see if anyone else was having the same problem.

    I finally found the answer that eventually solved the problem and I am so sorry that I can't think of where I found the information since I am so grateful to whoever that was!!

    Sometimes it is simple, little things that make a difference in the way things work.  It was so simple, I almost felt silly for even trying the suggestion . . . and I dismissed it for a while.  After continuing to struggle with the laundry, I thought, why not try?

    Fabric dryer sheets and fabric softener container waxy ingredients that clog up the lint screen, making it impossible for proper air ventilation.  I imagine it could also start a fire!

    So . . . out came the lint screen for a good cleaning . . . and voila . . . the dryer is working perfectly!

    Check your lint screen out and see if water doesn't penetrate it.  Water will just bead up on the screen if it needs to be cleaned.  All it takes is water, a little dishwashing liquid and a toothbrush.  Problem solved or prevented!

    Most people would go out and buy a new one.

    Anyway, it sure is nice to be able to get the laundry done quickly :)



    Wednesday, May 30, 2012

    The Wonders of Dawn Dishwashing Liquid


    TUB AND SHOWER CLEANER


    Take a spray bottle and fill it halfway with white vinegar. Heat in the microwave. Fill the rest of the way with blue Dawn. Put lid on and shake to mix well. Spray on your tub and shower walls. Allow to sit for a few minutes and rinse away. It will totally melt all the gunk, slime, sludge and other stuff that builds up including a bathtub ring.
    Click here for an awesome article . . . Original Blue Dawn, Not Just for Dishes Anymore from the blog One Good Thing by Jillie, where you will find a listing of lots more uses for Dawn that will save you money!



    Tuesday, April 3, 2012

    Simple's Cleansing Facial Wipes . . . a Klout perk!



    I just received my newest Klout perk today!


    Simple, sensitive skin experts, and UK’s #1 facial skincare rage, is now available in the US. Simple has no dyes, artificial perfumes or harsh irritants that can upset your skin. 

    The product I really loved . . . the cleansing facial wipes!  Since we live in Florida and spend a lot of time outdoors, these cleansing wipes come in handy.  They leave the skin feeling clean and refreshed . . . love them!  I will be purchasing more when the free product is used up :)


    Do you qualify to receive full size samples of Simple's Cleansing Facial Wipes and Replenishing Rich Moisturizer?  Click here to find out!



    Influencer disclosure: 

    I was given a free product or sample because I'm a Klout influencer. I was under no obligation to receive the sample or talk about this company. I get no additional benefits for talking about the product or company.



    Join me on Klout!












    Thursday, March 15, 2012

    Free body lotion from Burts Bees Gud



    My newest Klout perk for being an influencer was this awesome "gudee box" of three full sized products from Burts Bees gud.  So far, it is one of my favorite perks :)))  

    The body lotion is one of the best I have tried . . . the smell of  Floral Cherrynova is awesomely delicious and left my skin smooth and silky!

    Get your free sample of body lotion
     while supplies last!

    I love being a Klout influencer :)))

    I was given a free product or sample because I'm a Klout influencer.
     I was under no obligation to receive the sample or talk about this company.
     I get no additional benefits for talking about the product or company.








    You have to smell it to believe it. Good thing we are still giving out samples! Share this post to tell all your friends about how they can get a FREE Body Lotion sample!

    Samples available in the U.S. only while supplies last. Limit one per household. Ages 13+. Takes 4-6 weeks for delivery.

    CLICK the link below to request a sample: http://www.facebook.com/Gud/app_173756732737396


    Friday, January 20, 2012

    Sweet Treats!



    Gina's Italian Kitchen, my food blog, 
    will be featuring sweet treats
     now until Valentine's Day!

    Come by and check it out the
    sweets for your sweetie :)




    Thursday, January 12, 2012

    Kitchen Stuff on Sale Now


    Stock up on these following items
     while the stores have too much
     inventory left from the holidays!
    It happens every year . . .

    1. Fruit & Citrus: These items are usually heavily stocked, intended as holiday gifts.  If you can't use them right away, citrus can be juiced, pureed or even frozen (most fruits can be frozen).  Plan your menu around these items while they can be purchased for a fraction of their original price!
    2. Baking Supplies:  Look for discounts on flour, sugar, baking soda (which can also be used for your cleaning needs) . . . Basic staples are stocked in large quantities for holiday baking.
    3. Pie Crusts & Phyllo Dough:  Take advantage of discount prices . . . same as baking supplies!  Grocery stores buy these items in bulk for holiday baking. Stock up!  Don't forget you can freeze pies :)
    4. Cookie Cutters & Icing Supplies:  You will find inexpensive cookie cutters and icing tips at discount prices, although the inventory could be picked over . . . you never know!
    5. Yogurts:   We tend to make our resolutions to lose weight in January, so it is logical that yogurt and other assorted "healthy" items will be purchased in large quantities by the stores and sold at a discount.  Just stick a popsicle stick in the top of yogurt you anticipate will not be used by the expiration date and pop them in the freezer for some handy healthy treats.
    6. Sponges & Cleaning Supplies: You can count on deals for pricier specialized items like hand brooms or single sponges that might otherwise be over your budget.
    7. Cookie Mix-Ins: Just when you made your resolution to lose weight, you will be tempted by the deep discounts on items like wrapped caramels, chocolate chips, marshmallows, chocolate bars, candies, nuts, dried fruits, sprinkles and other assorted cookie items for the next several weeks.
    8. Winter Alcohol Packs: Beer, wine, hard liquors and gift sets are sold at reduced prices this time of year . . . stock up for that Super Bowl party! 
    9. Super Bowl Foods:  Time for the start of the big push for party items like soda, chips, crackers and cheeses.  
    10. Festive Beverages & Mix-Ins: Be on the lookout for holiday items like gingerbread and peppermint teas, holiday coffee creamer and flavorings . . . big markdowns on these items this time of year!

    Happy Frugal Shopping!



    Friday, December 30, 2011

    Traditional January Bargains and Deals




    Happy New Year!
    Let's go January Shopping!


    One of the greatest ways to save money is to wait until after the holidays to make major purchases.   Retail sales drastically drop after the holiday season . . . why not help retailers move their merchandise, keep their cash flow going to make new purchases and help yourself to some major bargains at the same time?  


    The following items are Traditional January Bargains and Deals . . .



    Wrapping Paper and Christmas Cards . . . General Holiday Items
    Why not purchase these items for next Christmas at a fraction of the price?  Retailers need to get rid of left over holiday merchandise . . . they really don't want to store it!



    Linens and Bedding
    Stock up on your bedding, linens, towels during the "White Sales" in January . . . major discounts mean big sales that retailers depend on after the holiday rush.



    Big Appliances
    Take advantage of stores moving older inventory not sold through the holidays by offering huge discounts at the beginning of January.

    Carpet and Flooring
    You get your greatest carpet and flooring deals before February 15, when they are at their lowest demand.  Prices typically pick up when buyers receive tax refunds and sales increase.

    Furniture

    Just like the appliance stores, furniture stores need to make room for new inventory in January.  You will typically save 10-50% on the "older" furniture.



    Happy Shopping!



    Wednesday, December 28, 2011

    FREE Printable 2012 Calendars


    Freebie alert!

    Super cute feminine printable 2012 Calendar!

    Check it out . . . click here





    Thursday, December 15, 2011

    Monday, November 14, 2011

    FREE Japanese Home Cooking EBook


    Get your FREE Japanese Home Cooking EBook!

    Click here

    Wednesday, November 9, 2011

    FREE Sewing patterns ~ Projects for the Home


    Sign up for the Sew Daily newsletter and get free
    project ebooks!  This is just one ebook available :)

    Click here 

    Happy Sewing!







    Saturday, October 15, 2011

    Frugal Halloween Costume Ideas



    The cost of a Halloween costume can be very pricey.

    Why not get some frugal inspiration from the following list,
     get creative and come up with your own Halloween costume?


    Do you really want to look like everyone else
     on Halloween night?  Be unique!


    Cruise the thrift stores to get some ideas . . . think Halloween creativity as you look through all that stuff.  Click on the link for an insightful article about thrift stores and Halloween.



    Have you ever used face paint?  It can be very inexpensive and easy to find at your local party store.  Some of the most awesome Halloween looks involved face paint and no elaborate costume!


    How about Homemade Halloween Masks?  You can come up with an awesome mask with little supplies . . . equates to fabulous and frugal.  Click on the link to Woman's Day for some ideas.


    Look around the house . . . revamped old clothes or recycled items (like garbage bags) can become a unique and interesting Halloween costume for a fraction of the cost of a purchased costume . . . or better yet . . . free.



    Sunday, October 9, 2011

    Check out my new daily paper ~ Crafting News by Gina



    Readers of my blogs know how much
     I love crafting and DIY projects.

    One of my other blogs, LaBelladiva,
     regularly features projects from Bloggerville.


    That was not enough for me . . . 
    I've started a new daily paper . . . 
    check it out!





    Tuesday, September 27, 2011

    Keep Fresh Cut Flowers Fresher Longer



    Whether they are from your garden or a fabulous romantic gift from your special love, you want them to stay as fresh as possible for the longest time.

    Don't you hate it when they start wilting immediately?  

    Fresh flowers are one of the luxuries that I love to indulge in.  A bouquet of fresh flowers is relatively inexpensive at the grocery store, but they usually don't last very long at all.  Being the frugal person that I am, I would buy them more often if I knew I could make them last longer than one day . . . seems like a waste of money for just one day!  

    I was very happy to find the following article which includes instructions on how to make them last longer:


    Click here for the informative tutorial w/video!


    Tuesday, September 20, 2011

    Organize your hair accessories!


    Do you waste money buying duplicate
    hair accessories simply because they
    are scattered all over the place?  

    If you find yourself having a difficult time finding
    a hair accessory when you need it, this simple
    solution may be just what you need!

    I'm so guilty!!

    Using toilet paper or paper towel tubes is a great
    solution.  Make them pretty and color coordinated
    by using some modge podge and fabric or tissue
    paper to decorate them . . . or paint them.

    Do you have any tips on 
    organizing hair accessories?