My Frugal Life: Thrifty Midwest Mom

Hi, I am a Midwest mom of 6, and I currently don't work outside the home. I take surveys, do secret shoppers, and occasionally provide homecare. I never have the extras in life, but I would like to have some nice things. I read blogs and sign up for freebies.

Just last month, I ate at Bob Evans for free with a gift card I earned. We ate 25 dollars worth and had money on the card leftover enough for a nice tip. I have earned gift cards, cash, and I can sample new products that aren't available. I have gotten perfume, cleaners, cereal, meals, and lotion, just to name a few of the things I have done. I cashed in my points on my sites enough so I earned a Kindle 3, free shipping guaranteed and all that. It only took me some of my time.

Everyone in my family envies me for good deals and bargains. If their car breaks or clothes or other things, it makes me feel good about my choices. I have used my free gift cards for clothes, presents, school supplies, etc. Have I gotten scammed? Yes, but I learned. I also use coupons but not to an extreme as I don't have enough space for a stockpile.

I use them to help me afford nice things for my family. I also check out free things to do in my town. When I go shopping, I go straight to the clearance. I have gotten new shoes for 2 bucks and clothes for 75 cents.

I take advantage of using Kidvantage at Sears. All their kids' items are guaranteed. I am using this to help my kids clothes last longer. If they don't, they replace them for free. It is a bargain.

I also use Twitter. I post sponsor's posts, and I get paid when people click on them. I just started that, but I have earned over fifteen bucks for doing nothing. I also am a member of Amazon Prime. I am doing this as joining gets me free two day shipping; it pays for itself. I never used to shop there, but now I do. I like getting rewarded for things I am going to do anyways. I also turn in cans and use the money for things that I need.

I would love to help anyone earn more by doing less. I have thought of having a class at my local book renting service to share my ideas. I am also thinking of ways to barter with people that sell Avon, etc. There's a lot of things I can do. I am crafty and I am learning new skills to trade with others. This is my first essay I have ever written, but I would like to share the wealth and help others. Thanks for reading this.

By kealey

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