Today is Sunday. Do you know what that means? Well, if you are a true frugal then you know that today is coupon day for the local papers. My local Sunday paper is $1.25. That is money well spent for the amount of coupons that I will find and use. But here is the key to getting the most for the $1.25 that you are spending.
You must know when the grocery store changes its weekly sale specials. My day is on Wednesdays of each week. I will make my grocery list out then. I list what I need immediately and what I do not need right away, but will be running out of shortly. This will save time when clipping coupons. If an item is on sale, plus I have a coupon I am on the way to saving money. With gas prices soaring I do not run from store to store to get my groceries. I utilize my local grocery store, which is about 5 minutes away. I am saving gas and supporting the local (not big box store) economy.
Now once I am finished with the coupons I will actually read the paper. I utilize the paper as a source of marketing and networking for my small business. I search for local businesses or existing clients that made the news and will drop them a note of recognition in the mail. Searching the local classifieds is a great way to find items that you may need. Buying it slightly used from someone in your area is another way of supporting the local economy.
There are still a few ways to stretch that money you spent on the Sunday paper. Once you have read it, pass it along to someone else to read. Do you have a neighbor who could use it or some of the coupons that you could not use. Pass it on to them. Do you have a pet that could utilize it? Potty training a puppy, lining the bottom of the bird, hamster or gerbil cage? Did you also know that newspapers are the best thing in the world to clean windows with? Use a solution of vinegar and water and clean glass tabletops, car windows and anything glass. It leaves no streaks. My dad showed me this trick years ago and it really works.
Another idea that I have utilized is keeping newspaper in the trunk of my car. No, I am not crazy. Spread out the newspaper and place it over the floor mats in your car. This is a trick I use when I have mud or any other unwanted substance on the bottom of my shoes. This keeps my floor mats clean. Just recycle the dirty newspapers away once you have reached your destination. This also works great for messy kids entering your vehicle for the ride home!
If none of these tips work for you then clip your coupons, read the paper and recycle it! Never just throw away anything that can be utilized.
Have a great Sunday and start saving money!!
