Win a $500 Gift Card to WalMart!

Share your best money saving holiday tip and you could win a $500 gift card to Wal-Mart compliments of Nickelodeon. All you need to do is visit one of Walmart's Eleven Moms, read their blog about the contest, and post your best holiday tip for an entry. You can start here with Being Frugal.net , an awesome money saving blog that you should seriously consider adding to your blog reader list.

And in the spirit of the contest, here's my best money saving holiday tip. If you're a little strapped for cash this season to buy holiday gifts, but want to give at least something, consider making a small donation to charities such as March of Dimes. You can donate as little as $1 in someone's name and it will help that charity tremendously. You can also printout a receipt that shows the gift recipient's name and the name of the charity (the amount will not show). This a beautiful, priceless gift that will make you and the gift recipient feel good. It really embodies the holiday spirit of giving.

We are Family...and Friends! Discounts Galore!

Now sing along if you know this Pointer Sisters song:

We are family (and friends),
I've got all my discounts with me,
We are family (and friends),
Come on everybody, let's spend!

Hee, hee! Well, seems like major retailers are spreading the love with their friends and family discounts before Black Friday hits. Take advantage of these special discounts to get your holiday shopping under control. Don't forget to check out the clearance section for extra savings. Also, please make sure to read the fine print of all offers for exclusions, exceptions and expiration dates.

Bath & Body Works: Pamper yourself with a 20% discount valid only online using promo code 20FRIENDS. Expires 11/16/08.

Bloomingdales: Designer brands are a tad more affordable with Friends & Family code FANDF. Pair the savings with Bloomie's current sale of 20% off Fall Favorites for Women and you'll get a runway look for less. Promo ends 11/16/08/.

Calvin Klein Underwear: For an intimate gift, click over to Calvin Klein's online store and use promo code FRIENDS2 to save 30% off your purchase. You can also save up to 50% off on select clearance items. Sale ends 11/18/2008.

Charlotte Russe: Print out this e-mail coupon and bring to your local store to save 30% until 11/18/08.

Chicos, White House|Black Market, Soma Intimates: Save 25% online through 11/16/08 with the following codes:
Chicos: 6321
B&W House: 8750
Soma: 7113

Eddie Bauer: Use online promo code HOLFANDF to save 30% (except clearance items) from 11/14/08-11/16/08.

Gap, Gap Outlet, Banana Republic, Banana Republic Factory Store, Old Navy: According to these popular retailers, it's "Give and Get" time with this special Friends & Family code that knocks off 30% off your purchase. Please note that this code can be used multiple times in-store; the online code shown is a one-time use only. Valid 11/13/08 - 11/16/08.

Harry & David: Stock up on these popular edible gifts with this printable coupon that takes 30% off your purchase through 11/16/08.

KB Toys: Use this in-store Friends & Family coupon to save 20% your purchase on either 11/17/08 or 11/24/08.

Janie & Jack: I have never seen this type of discount from Janie & Jack - save 25% from 11/14-11/16 with their friends & family promotion!

Restoration Hardware: Get 20% off your online purchase with promo code FFR2008.

Free Holiday Shipping

Save yourself from the stress of holiday crowds with free shipping offers from the following online retailers. Pair the savings by going through Ebates or other cash back sites (see list on the right) and you'll have a little extra cash to get something for yourself!

Fisher Price: Purchase $50 or more from their online store and get free shipping until 11/14/08.

HSN: Purchase from hundreds of select toys available at HSN and you'll get free shipping. Try using promo code C79238 to save an extra 15% (supposedly works on orders over $50). Expiration unknown.

KB Toys: Enjoy free standard shipping here on thousands of toys until 11/17/08.

Roxy: Get free shipping on orders over $49 (no code required). Expires 11/16/08.

Toys R' Us: Take advantage of small and big ticket items with its free shipping offer on orders of $49 or more. Expiration unknown.

Free Food Network Magazine

Attention cooks and food lovers! Get the premiere issue for free through this link from Hearst Magazines. Make sure you read the fine print - you'll be sent a bill for $15 if you like the magazine; if not, just write "cancel" on the bill and you will not be charged.

Sizing Up Shampoos

Need to switch up your shampoos? Then try these free shampoo samples listed below. Also, read here for an interesting answer to the question of whether it is beneficial to periodically change up your shampoos. I have always wondered about that!

Nexxus -Get a FREE sample of Nexxus Therappe Luxurious Moisturizing Shampoo and Humectress Ultimate Moisturizing Conditioner.

Salon Secret Sample from WalMart: Your sample will ship 11/24/08, and the name of the "secret" product will be revealed as well.

Pantene - Enjoy a free sample of Pantene Collections Shampoos.

Victoria's Secret - Get 2 Bras and Panties Under $20!

Originally this post by $20 for Charity was on how to score 2 sweaters, 2 bras and 1 panty for under $30. Unfortunately, the sweater deal has expired (darn!), but you can still get 2 bras and 1 panty for less than $20. Just follow the steps in her post (excluding the sweater deal). Also, when selecting a panty, make sure it is white, buff or ivory. The code will not go through if you select other colors. My grand total came out to $17.98 -I spend that on one bra alone! Have fun stocking up for yourself or others (i.e. Christmas gifts)!

More Free Eats on Election Day

Here's a supplement to my previous post on free food offered by national food chains on election day. All the info is from The Orange County Register (see full article here). Seems like more eateries are really trying to encourage people to get out there and vote! Also be sure to check out your local restaurants for any freebies or promotions on Nov. 4.

Starbucks: Voters will receive a free tall coffee on Nov. 4. For more details, see the ad at http://www.youtube.com/starbucks.

Pizza Hut: Pizza Hut will give a 20 percent discount to all online orders scheduled for delivery or pick-up on Nov. 4. NOTE: Valid for new online customers only.

Daily Grill: Enjoy a free appetizer rom 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. For locations, check here.

Pat & Oscar’s: Dine in after casting you vote and receive 20% off on Nov. 4. Pat & Oscar’s locations listed here.

Vote & Get Free Food!

Given the rumors that the lines at the poll will be longer than previous elections, you'll probably miss a meal just to get your vote in. So thanks to The Bargainist for this great post on select restaurants that are rewarding your civic duty (and patience) with free eats on election day. Here is the post from the website:

"A few restaurant chains are doing their patriotic duty by giving away free food on Election Day this November 4th. Start the day with a free star shaped doughnut with patriotic sprinkles from Krispy Kreme. Each customer that shows up with an "I Voted" sticker will receive one. Then head over to Shane's Rib Shack where they'll be giving away a free "Vote America Meal" that consists of three hand-breaded chicken tenders, fries and a 20 oz. drink. Here again you must show your "I Voted Today" sticker. Chick-fil-a is also fulfilling their patriot duty with a free Chicken Sandwich for all voters. Finish up the day at your local Ben & Jerry's between the hours of 5-8pm, and you'll get a free scoop of ice cream. All offers valid on 11/04/2008 only. [Thanks, Everyone!]"

Hot Weekend Deals

Here's a few deals from around the blogosphere:

6pm.com: All RSVP shoes for women are marked down to $9.99. Just type in RSVP in search box. I found lots of sandals, pumps, dressy heels and even kids shoes for $9.99. Check out these awesome floral adorned shoes that are on sale! If you purchase through CashBaq (similar to Ebates and FYI Ebates did not have a cash back option for 6pm.com), you'll receive 5% back of your purchase (plus you'll get $5 for signing up). (thanks to My Bargain Buddy)

Bev Mo: Buy one bottle of wine, get the second for a nickel! Some 150 wines are eligible for the discount which ends December 7, 2008. (thanks to The Bargain Hunter!)

Fashion Bug: Save 50% sitewide on women's apparel through Nov. 3. Check out this plaid babydoll jacket now reduced to $15.98!

MAC Cosmetics: Free shipping on any purchase this weekend with promo code 3DAY. (thanks again to The Bargain Hunter!)

$10 off $10 or more online purchase at JCPenney's - TODAY ONLY!

It's one-day sales galore! Here's another from JCPenney that cuts $10 off a purchase of $10 or more online with promo code DOOR39. Valid today only! You still have to pay for tax and shipping, but it's still a pretty good deal. To make this deal even better, use the coupon on merchandise you can find in the $9.99 clearance section or their Wednesday deals (can be found under Clearance section, then scroll all the way down on left). Thanks to the Bargainist for alerting us of this fantastic find!

E.L.F. Mineral Makeup is 50% off - ONE DAY ONLY!

If you're interested in hopping on the mineral makeup train, check out the 50% off sale (on purchases over $25) on all minerals at E.L.F. (acronym for Eyes, Lips & Face) with promotional code EGMINERALC. I added lipsticks, kabuki brushes, blushes, and oil-stopping mineral sheer all slashed to $2.50 each to my shopping cart. For mineral makeup virgins, the starter kits, which include foundation, concealer, blush, two brushes and makeup case are a steal for $10. This is my first time testing out E.L.F.'s mineral line, so I'm crossing my fingers that the products are good. Most of the products received 4 out of 5 stars which is a positive sign. Also, if you spend more than $25 (after discount), you'll receive a free subscription to Glamour Magazine (note: there's also a refund of $9.99 if you don't want the magazine - see website for details). According to my e-mail alert, this is a 24-hour sale - I received the e-mail this A.M. (10/28) so order fast!

Shop Early and Save Big

When I was younger (i.e. before kids), I used to love shopping the day after Thanksgiving. I had enough energy to wake up at 4 a.m., enough patience to brave the frenetic holiday shoppers, and enough time to wait in line to get that deeply discounted sales item.

With child in tow and a busy schedule full of school activities, playdates, errands and birthday parties, I have neither the energy, patience or time to entertain Black Friday. But that doesn't mean that good deals can't be had beforehand. In fact, better deals are sprouting way ahead of the highly anticipated post-Thanksgiving sales. Just shop early and you'll probably save more money! Here are a few deals to kickstart your holiday shopping - I'll keep posting more holiday deals under the heading "Shop Early and Save Big" so be on the lookout!

TOYS, TOYS, TOYS
Toys R Us: Get free shipping up to $15 by signing up for their free rewards program here. The code is valid 10/28/08 through 11/11/08.

Amazon.com: Currently, Amazon is offering a free 2-year subscription to Cookie Magazine with any toy purchase of $25 or more (see details here). You can opt to get a refund for the subscription, thereby recouping $15 (the value of the subscription). Also, check Amazon's Monday markdowns, where several random toys are discounted. Sign-up for their e-mail newsletter to stay on top of the sales.

LeapFrog.com: Save up to 70% selected toys, plus get free shipping on orders over $50 through 10/31/08.

RESTAURANTS
Restaurants.com: This website is slashing 80% off $25 gift certificates, bringing the cost down to a mere $2. These make great Christmas gifts for family or friends who enjoy dining out! Enter code TREATS. If you check out through Ebates, you'll get 15% cash back to boot.

I've Been Tagged!

Denise from "The Centsible Sawyer" tagged me this week to share 7 random things. So here they are:

7 Random Things About Me

1. If you saw me, you’d never guess that I was born and raised in the South. (I’m Filipino-American!)

2. I LOVE shopping at flea markets and thrift stores for clothes and shoes better than going to the mall. It’s like finding hidden treasures, and you can be sure that what you’ve bought is unique.

3. I wanted to be an actress when I was little girl. I used to rehearse my Oscar speech in the bathroom over and over again!

4. I enjoy all kinds of music, but I have a penchant for rap and hip hop.

5. I am a big foodie! I just love to eat! When I have time, I like to cook for my family and friends. I also enjoy going out to eat to try different restaurants.

6. I love watching corny, funny movies that make you laugh so hard, you can hardly breathe! My favorites are The Nutty Professor (with Eddie Murphy) and Anchorman.

7. I would love to own a boutique one day, filled with lots of beautiful clothes, shoes, purses, jewelry and other accessories every woman would want!

So, let's tag the following bloggers to learn some interesting things about them (I don't know many...) :

Afrohemian Eclectic
Crazy Coupon Mom

Free Sample of Dunkin Donuts Coffee

Extra 50% Clearance Items at Wilson's Leather

Leather is much more affordable with this sale at Wilson's Leather, offering an additional 50% off clearance items. I found this leather shopper (pictured left) for $29.94* and this chic briefcase for $39.94*. Men's leathers coats were as low as $79.94* and wallets were down to $17.44*. There's a couple of non-leather items such as this all black trench coat by Guess for $99.99* and this belted trench coat by Nine West for $59.94*. (*All prices include 50% off discount). I don't know when the sale ends, but if you're a leather lover, check it out now.

Food Savings

First of all, I want to apologize for not keeping up with my blog lately. I thought life would be easier once my daughter started preschool, but it only has seemed to have become busier! At any rate, I'm back and hopefully will be better at posting deals!

I know saving money, especially on food, has become a priority for many given the current state of the economy. Here's some money saving coupons and deals from around the blogosphere that should help you stay afloat.

FOOD DEALS
- Get 14 hamburgers and a cutting board for $1.98 (includes shipping) from Omaha Steaks, thanks to this post by My Good Cents. If you prefer to get all meat (no cutting board), you can get 20 hamburgers for $1.98 by tweaking her directions slightly as follows:

1) Go here and click on “Register and Save with Omaha Steaks”. This is for Geico Privileges and it is FREE to join and you do not have to be a member. You will receive a code in your email for $25 off at Omaha Steaks – I waited overnight for mine to show up in my mailbox, but some people say that it will take about two hours.

2) Once you get your gift certificate, click on this link http://www.shareomahasteaks.com/k/NzcsMgUYGikBFoYKBCkDCQoFBgs=/143747/trtmnt/11860/. This link will get you 12 hamburgers for FREE, but only when you click through it. (PLEASE NOTE: this link offers me a bonus when people order; if you'd prefer not to do this, use this link instead www.shareomahasteaks.com)

3) Go to the “Burgers” section and add the eight (8) 5 oz Omaha Steak Burgers for $12.99 in your cart.

4) Go to “Checkout” and you should see the 8 burgers you ordered, plus the 12 for free.

5) Enter the $25 gift certificate code from Geico.

6) Your grand total, including shipping, will be $1.98! That’s about 10 cents per burger!

FREE/ALMOST FREE COFFEE
- Get a free sample of Folgers coffee via WalMart
- Get a free cappucino from Barnes & Noble with this coupon
- Check out this post from The Bargain Hunter about getting a 5 cent cup of coffee for the entire month of October at your local Walgreens

COUPONS
- Whole Foods: Save $5 off a purchase of $25 or more with this coupon.

Hot Online Sales for Fashionistas!

Ann Taylor - Take an extra 25% off already reduced clearance items when shopping online. Take advantage of wardrobe staples such as cardigans as low as $22.49 (includes discount), suit jackets for $74 (with discount) and wool pants for $52.50. You can also indulge in trendy separates such as this silk stretch medallion print halter (pictured right) for $22.50.


Express - Express continues to lure fashionistas with a promotion for $15 off $30 or $30 off $75 with code 5882. Pair this coupon code with their current sale featuring Buy One, Get One 50% off select items, $10-20 off sweaters, and 40% off jackets and skirts and you'll score big!


Wet Seal - Save an extra 30% off select online clearance merchandise ending in .99. You'll find cute underwear as low as $1.99, lotion gift sets by Miso Pretty for $9.99 and tops for $9.99. My picks include a black mini military skirt for $9.99 (good for Fall paired with funky tights) and this Vermillion striped belted blouse for $9.99 pictured right. Use code 1107WLCE for free shipping to boot. Make sure you like what you buy as all sales items are final!

Arden B. Sale - 65% off Select Clearance Items!

If you're a fan of Arden B.'s contemporary clothing line, check out their current sale where you can take an additional 65% off the lowest marked price on select styles. There's not a whole lot to choose from, but I did find an Ikat Knee Length Skirt for $17.50 (with discount and reg. $58), baby doll camis for $7 (after discount) and shorts for about $14 (after discount). Sizes are limited, so hurry fast! All sales are final.

Food & Drink Deals of the Day

Check out these appetizing deals:

McCormick & Schmicks: Get a $20 gift certificate when you make an online reservation by 9/30/08. Follow the 4 easy steps and you'll be on your way to a seafood feast.

Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf is celebrating its 45th anniversary throughout the month of September with various offers outlined below. Not free, but paying 63 cents vs. $3.50 for a cup of tea is a bargain these days!

Tuesday, Sept. 9th: 63 cent brewed coffee
Tuesday, Sept.16th: 63 cent hot tea
Tuesday, Sept. 23rd: 20% off one pound of house blend coffee
Tuesday, Sept. 30th: 20% off any 20-count tea bag tin
Tuesday, Oct. 7th: Add a FREE espresso shot to any drink

Labor Day Weekend - Retail, Renovate or Rest?

How will you spend your Labor Day Weekend? Whether you decide to wind down and relax, stock up on end-of-summer sales or roll-up your sleeves for true labor around the home, here are some deals to help you enjoy your weekend:

Retail Therapy: If you're game enough to hit the malls and outlets this weekend, make sure to check out the following deals and coupons. For those who want to stay at home and shop in peace, take note of corresponding online promo codes:

• Aldo Shoes: Take 10% off your purchase with this printable coupon.
• American Eagle Outfitters: Here's a triple treat for you: 1) Buy any pair of jeans or T-shirts, and get another of equal or lesser value for 50% off at AE.com; 2) free shipping this Labor Day weekend; and 3) stack these savings with 40% off promo code 58734291.
  
• Avenue: HOT! Use this coupon to nab a pair of jeans for $10 (select styles only)!
  
• Banana Republic: Shave $30 off a $100 purchase or more with this printable coupon.
  
• Bath & Body Works: Labor Day savings include 50% off selected items, 5 for $15 anti-bacterial and aromatherapy collections, and buy 3 get 2 free on select signature collection or home fragrances. If you spend $15 or more, pick up a pair of free socks with this coupon as well.
• Bebe: Save 15% off a purchase of $75 or more here. Expires 8/30/08.
  
• Carter's: Take 20% off a purchase of $50 or more with this coupon. Plus take an additional 20% off clearance items and get a $10 gift check for every $35 you spend through 9/30/08.
• Bloomingdales: The Big Brown Sale will take an extra 30% - 50% off selected sales items (discount will be reflected at checkout). You'll find designer items crafted by Ella Moss, Juicy Couture, Splendid, Kate Spade, Nanette Lepore for amazing prices. This is one HOT sale in my book.
• Children's Place: Save big with this coupon for 20% off. Right before Labor Day, The Children's Place has an AWESOME sale, so this coupon will save you some serious change.
  
• Circuit City: Save 10% off a purchase of $249 or more through this link.
  
• Crabtree & Evelyn: Redeem this coupon for a free 50 ml body wash (valued at $5) with any $10 purchase.
  
• Crazy 8: Tees are $5 and selected items are up to 50% off. Also, if you sign-up for their e-mail newsletter, you'll get a coupon for $10 off a $30 purchase!
• Esprit: Receive $20 off your denim purchase here.
  
• Gymboree: Save an extra 20% off clearance items on their upcoming sale. Also, don't forget to use this printable coupon to take an additional 20% off.
  
• KB Toys: Check out this flyer that highlights all the Labor Day weekend deals including $10 bonus bucks with $30 purchase and buy one get one 50% off select video games.
• Newport News: Take an additional 20% on summer sale or new arrival purchases with promo code 514. Ends Monday 9/1/08.
• New York & Company: Take $25 off a purchase of $75 or more with this printable coupon. Pair this coupon with their 70% off sale to score some major wardrobe deals. Online shoppers use promo code 1047.
• Sally Beauty Supply: Save with these buy one, get one coupons for beauty items such as nail polish, shampoo/conditioner and tanning products.
• Sephora: Browse the virtual makeup aisle and enjoy free shipping on orders over $50.
• The Limited: Knock off $15 for every $50 you spend now through 9/21/08.
  
• Ulta: Receive 20% off one item with this printable voucher. Expires 8/30/08.
  

AT THE OUTLETS: In addition to these deals, be sure to sign-up for your local outlets' e-mail newsletters to get more coupons on your favorite stores.

• Ann Taylor Loft: Save 20% off everything with this coupon.
• Petite Sophisticate Outlet: Take $35 off a purchase of $75 or more now through 9/11/08.
• Reebok Or Rockport Outlets: Save 20% off your entire purchase here.
  

Renovate or Redecorate: Not too much to report, but these deals could help with those lingering home improvement projects.

• Aaron Brothers: Use this coupon for 50% off any regular priced item.
• Sherwin Williams: Save $10 off your paint purchase of $50 or more.

To find out why we celebrate Labor Day and how it originated, click here.

**UPDATE** : Thanks to reader Kim for passing along another great website on online promo codes - Coupon Album. Be sure to check it out this weekend!

Give the Grill a Rest This Labor Day

Forgo the grill this weekend and use these coupons instead for fun and easy meals!

• Buca di Beppo: Take $10 off a $30 hearty, gut-busting Italian feast.
  
• Chik-Fil-A: On Labor Day, don your favorite sports T-shirt or jersey to try a free 3-count of Chick-fil-A^®'s new, bigger, tastier, dippier Chick-n-Strips^™ and sauce. Head over anywhere from 10:30 a.m. to closing.
  
• Honey Baked Ham: These hams can be the star of the table on other holidays besides Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Celebrate the love of Labor Day with these coupons for juicy, savory hams.
  
• Maggiano's: Enjoy a festive Italian meal with this coupon for $15 off a $45 bill.

Freebies & Coupons of the Day

• Treat yourself to a free movie ticket from Blue Bunny. I know there are some Blue Bunny coupons out there and will post them once I find them. Here are the details: 1) Complete the official mail-in order form (e-mail required); 2) Send the original, dated cash register receipt with required purchases circled; 3) Mail items listed to: Blue Bunny® Free Movie Ticket Offer P.O. Box 4676, Dept. 03 St. Cloud, MN 56398-4676 and 4) Receive your reward via e-mail. (Offer good through 9/7/08, while supplies last. Entries must be postmarked by 9/15/2008 and received by 9/25/2008. Limit one (1) movie ticket per consumermail required).
• Try a free sample of Purex fabric softener. Due to popular demand it will take about 12 weeks to receive the sample.
• In case you didn't get your free 10 day sample of Bare Minerals foundation with kabuki brush from Sephora, pick one up from Ulta. While supplies last.
• Get a free funny T-shirt from Johnsonville that says on the back "Don't Call Me a Weenie" when you send in four UPCs from packages of Johnsonville Brats. Note that all sizes are XL - I guess if you eat a lot of Brats you'll need an XL!
  
• $1 off Jack in the Box smoothies. Expires 9/25/08.
  

Free Breakfast at Ikea 8/30/08 to 9/1/08

Ikea is luring shoppers to their upcoming sale with free breakfast from Saturday, Aug. 30 to Monday, Sept. 1. The free breakfast is valued at 99 cents and also includes a 99 cents cup of coffee. Return Ikea's $1.98 token of generosity by browsing their sale, which includes side tables for $6.99, funky floor lamps for $6.99 and the popular Poang chair for $59.

Shoe Frenzy on September 6, 2008

Attention shoe addicts! Mark you calendars on Sat., Sept. 6 from 8 a.m. to Noon to attend the Shoe Frenzy Sale in Culver City, California hosted by the Women's Clinic & Family Counseling Center. I've never been, but received this hot shopping tip from The Bargain Hunter who hears that this sale is FABULOUS! All shoes are new (donated by merchants) and most pairs are under $50 and all pairs are under $100. When you check out their website here, you'll see pictures of past sales where people have snagged Jimmy Choos for $50 and diba boots for $50.

Admission is $1 and there is free parking at the site located at Veterans Memorial Complex Auditorium, 4117 Overland Ave. in Culver City. Cash, check with ID and credit cards are accepted. Of course, all sales are final!

Deals of the Day

Happy Monday! Here are some deals to get you started for the week:

Free Star Wars Clone Wars Pocket Models from Wizkids Games. Click here for the printable coupon. You have to enter your zip code to make sure this freebie is available in your area. Also, if your kids love Star Wars, take them to visit some of the characters from the movie at Pottery Barn next month. Check potterybarn.com for dates and details.

Earn a coupon good for one free Calistoga® Brand beverage 4-pack or 6-pack (including the new Sparkling Juices!), by completing a short survey on why you prefer still or bubbly water after a taste of wine. Coupons will only be sent to residents of the following states (CA, AZ, NV, OR, WA, HI, CO, NM, ID, WY) in which Calistoga ® brand 4-packs and/or 6-packs are sold.

Rumor has it that Starbucks in Southern California will be offering free Vivanno or Sorbetto drinks on Wednesday, August 27 from 4 p.m. - 7 p.m. So Cal residents should call your local Starbucks to make sure they are participating.

Mall Bargains This Weekend

If you're headed to the mall this weekend, be sure to arm yourself with these deals and printable coupons:

Arden B.: Take $20 off a purchase of $100 or more at this stylish women's clothing store.

Coldwater Creek: Save $25 off your purchase of $100 or more with this coupon.

Crabtree & Evelyn: Use this coupon for $10 off $50 worth of bath, body and fragrance products.

Footlocker: Use this coupon to shave 30% off your purchase.

Express: Take $10 off a $20 purchase or if you're bound to spend more, take $20 off $75 with this printable coupon. Expires 8/26/08.

Gymboree: Get the kids outfitted for school with this coupon for 20% off your purchase. Expires 9/30/08.

New York & Company: Update your Fall wardrobe with this coupon for $30 off a $75 purchase. Expires 8/24/08.

Old Navy: HOT, HOT, HOT! Stock up on jeans for the entire family on 8/23 when select denim styles are on sale for $12 (men and women) and $7 (kids). No coupon required, but there is a limit of 3 pairs per person.

Payless Shoe Store: Shoe lovers can take $10 off a purchase of $50 here. Right now shoes are buy one, get one half off, so work this coupon! Expires 8/30/08.

Sephora: Stop in to receive a free 10 day sample and baby kabuki brush by Bare Minerals. No purchase required. While supplies last!

Victoria's Secret: Get a free Secret Garden Berry Kiss Product valued at $10 with any $15 purchase here.

Happy shopping!

Cheap & Free Eats

Carrows: Get a free dessert when you sign-up for their e-mail newsletter here.

Marie Callender's: Now through Sept. 5, the restaurant is celebrating its 60th anniversary by offering a slice of pie for $0.99 cents (with purchase of any entree and beverage). Click here for more info and also coupons for appetizers, entrees and brunches to further celebrate the fest.

McDonald's: Print a coupon here for a free McDonald’s Southern Style chicken biscuit or sandwich with any medium or large drink purchase. Make sure to click on “Get A Free Offer” shown at the top of the page and print the coupon in color or it will not be accepted.

Freebies and Deals of the Day

Happy Monday! Jumpstart your week with these goodies and deals:

Blockbuster: Get $10 off any purchase with promo code augappreciation. Work this deal into getting something for free by buying previously viewed videos that start as low as $3.99. You'll also get free shipping with previous viewed video purchases (first-class mail). A few notes: 1) your purchase must be at least $10; 2) you don't have to be a member, but if you are, you'll receive an additional 10% off your previous viewed video purchase; and 3) your discount won't appear until after you've entered your shipping and billing info. Thanks to The Centsible Sawyer for the tip!

Build-A-Bear: Receive a free gift each week until September 1 at Build a Bear - no purchase required. Just visit your local store and ask for your free gift. Check out the details here . No doubt when you're there picking up your free gift, you may end up buying something else! Thanks again to The Centsible Sawyer.

Jane Cosmetics: Fill out this questionnaire and receive a $2 off coupon on your next purchase.

Orville Redenbacher: Get a free sample of 100 Calorie Mini SmartCakes in either Caramel or Cheddar here.

Panda Express: Get a free single entree serving of Beijing Beef or Orange Chicken when you buy a two-item combo and drink. Click for coupon here. Expires 8/14/08. I've tried the Beijing Beef and it's yummy!

Spectacular Swimsuit Sales

When is the best time to buy a swimsuit? Now! The best bargains are right before the end of summer when retailers are trying to move merchandise to prepare for fall arrivals. Here's a list of the hottest online sales:

Amazon.com: Miracle swimsuits that normally retail for $130 are now an unbelievable low price of $30+ at Amazon.com. You can check out Nordstroms.com, Bloomingdales.com or Macys.com to see that these top-notch swimsuits, which boast to make you look 10 lbs. slimmer, are still $100 or more. The sizes range from 8-24. Finally, Amazon.com is offering a one-year subscription to Lucky, Teen Vogue or GQ (valued from $8-$12) when you spend $25 or more on apparel or shoes. You can also opt to get a refund for the subscription (see Amazon.com for promo details), shaving an extra $8-12 off your swimwear purchase. This is an amazing deal, so hurry as sizes are going fast! (Oceanus style in black pictured above).

Carabella: For those of you lucky or brave enough to sport a bikini, check out Carabella.com where there are some cute bikinis as low as $9.99. I spotted this super stylish embroidered and beaded bikini for $17.95 pictured on the right (reg. $129.95). If you prefer a one piece swimsuit, there's a few choices starting as low as $11.95. Use promo code C384 to get an additional 30% off!

Land's End: If you are a D-cup or larger, or looking for a slenderizing suit, check out this sale. You'll find plenty of flattering styles for great prices. Items of note include: Women's Custom Bandeau Tank Swimsuit for $19.99 (reg. $89); Women's DD-cup Hi-neck Slender Suit for $12.50 (reg. $88.50); and Women's Regular Solid Surplice Ring V-neck Tank Swimsuit for $19.99. There's also a nice selection of separate bottoms for $4.99; boys and girls swim shorts for $7.99; and kids bathing suits and bikinis from $9.99. For free shipping, use promo code APPLE and pin 869605030. (pictured left is Women's Custom Bandeau Tank Swimsuit in black).

Newport News: My favorite online retailer for swimsuits (I am a big fan of their Shape FX line) is offering an additional 15% off any purchase with promo code 526. You can also try promo code 635 for an extra 20% and L41 for free shipping (these are reportedly working as of today). Use these discounts in the clearance swimwear section where items are marked down considerably. You'll find separates (bottoms) for as low as $1 (yes, $1), a leopard print bikini for $1.99, tankinis for $8.99, and one pieces for $11.99. (Pictured: Tie-neck halter for $9.99 in pink)

Swimsuits for All: This online store carries swimwear for the entire family, but specializes in sizes 8-24. Check out their awesome clearance sale offering swimwear slashed from 50%-70% off. I found swimsuits that regularly retailed for $78 now on sale for $12 to $16.98. There's also some really cute kids bathing suits for as low as $6.99 for girls, and $3.99 for boys. Also, you'll get a pair of free flip flops with promo code FLIP. To get them, go to the Women's section, click on FREE FLIP FLOP OFFER, select a pair, then add promo code at checkout. (pictured left: Femme Fatale One-piece in Teal by Jantzen).

Freebies of the Day

Arby's: Get a free sausage biscuit tomorrow, Friday, August 8 between 6 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. No purchase or coupon is required. This promo is not mentioned on the Arby's website, but was found on one of their to-go bags. Here is an attachment of the promo. Make sure to call your local restaurant to make sure they are participating!

Head & Shoulders: Get a free sample of either their new dry scalp care or silky smooth products here.

$9.99 Shoes and Free Shipping at Shoetrader.com

Suit your soles to a new pair of shoes with this awesome sale at Shoetrader.com, where their clearance section boasts shoes and purses priced to sell at $9.99. Plus, there's free shipping on any order! What you'll find are plenty of sandals, from trendy polka dot wedges to comfort styles by Sofft, classic pumps, stylish flats and some boots. There are a handful of purses, but the shoes are really the biggest bargain for your buck.

My favorite picks are the leopard print buckle ballerina flats (reg. $39.99), Knotted Sabrina Pumps available in red, navy or black (reg. $69.99), Mesa Sling Sandals in black or white (reg. $39.99) and these sexy leather nailhead trimmed pumps ($69.99).

Sale ends 8/27/07. Happy shoe shopping! Special thanks to My Bargain Buddy for the tip!

Freebies of the Day - Starbucks & Sauce!

Starbucks: Get a free 12 oz. iced Frappuccino, iced espresso, iced brew coffee, or iced tea. Expires August 31, 2008. Thanks to The Bargain Hunter for the tip!

Country Bob: Sign-up for Country Bob's newsletter here and you will receive a coupon for a free, full-size bottle of their original All Purpose Sauce.

Crocs for $19.95!

If you like these lightweight and slip-resistant shoes, click over to 6PM.com to find pairs at just $19.95 (reg. $41). There are plenty of sizes for women and men; sizes for kids are limited to boys styles. College football fans can also score with special crocs featuring collegiate logos including USC, Auburn, Florida, NC State, UCLA, Georgia, LSU, Ohio State and more. Thanks to My Bargain Buddy for the tip!