February 2012

Why Vacuums Matter

It probably goes without saying but when buying a vacuum, one can either buy cheap or look toward the seemingly extremely expensive.

Today, we made the choice to purchase a Dyson DC-25.  I had always known that they were great vacuums and that they would pick up just about everything but I was very surprised when using this product and how well it does.  It picks up dirt and grime that must have been hiding in the carpet for months or even years.  Which is gross, I know.

Before, we used to pick up the hundred dollar vacuums and find ourselves disappointed by the quality or the durability of the product.  It is the worst feeling when you are trying to clean and the vacuum just won't pick anything up.  It is a mixture of disappointment and failure.  I don't want to feel this again when trying to finish a project.

Free Sample: Gud From Burt’s Bees


What better deal can you get then to sample a product completely for free? I love free stuff, and grab at least two or three samples each week without ever paying a dime. You just have to know where to look. This week I spotted a freebie that actually comes from the makers of Burt’s Bees. I love Burt’s Bees products.

The product line is called Gud, and the product you will receive in the mail is a sample bottle of lotion. The Gud line actually includes body lotions, shampoo, conditioner, body mist, body butter, hand cream, and body wash. What makes this product line different from all other Burt’s Bees products is its bold scents. Even though Gud will capture the attention of your senses, it still does not contain harsh chemicals. The products are never tested on animals either.

Free Sample: Metamucil

Metamucil is currently offering a free sample of its MultiHealth Fiber product. My mother has used Metamucil for years, so I can attest to the fact that it has proven health benefits. The most common reason that I find people take Metamucil is to relieve constipation issues. Whether you have Irritable Bowl Syndrome, diverticulosis, or just trouble having a bowl movement from time to time, you may want to request this free sample to see if you get any relief.

Free Sun-Maid Recipe Booklet


Sun-Maid is currently offer three recipe booklets totally free for anyone who wants them. The three options include their 100th Anniversary Cookbook, the Fruit and Sunshine recipe booklet, and the New Taste of Tradition Cookbook.

The 100th Anniversary Cookbook contains a total of 20 recipes that have been made popular by Sun-Maid over the years. Of course, each of these recipes utilizes Sun-Maid products, such as raisins or dried fruits. One of the recipes is called Tropical Carrot Cake. The cookbook is even available by PDF if you prefer to view it online, or print it out from the computer.

Look for the Blue in JCPenney


When I first started seeing JCPenney’s ads on television a month ago, I couldn’t figure out what they were about. It turns out that JCPenney is no longer going to have sales, or offer coupons. They are implementing a new strategy, and I personally think it is a brilliant one.

Instead of sales and coupons, JCPenney now has three prices throughout the store that are color coded. If you spot red tags, for example, you’ll be looking at the new lower everyday prices. White tags indicate merchandise that has a special price for the entire month. Finally, the blue tags offer the biggest savings. Every first and third Friday of each month, you will find a wide range of clothes and household items that have blue tags. These tags indicate the lowest prices JCPenney has to offer.

Free Software Every Day

Save money on your essential apps and programs

While the prices of computers, tablets, and smart phone have been declining, the cost of running essential software or apps have not.  Good software can cost hundreds of dollars. To save money, people usually switch to open source alternatives that serve their purpose but are not as good as the licensed software.  So, when I come across a deal or a freebie for quality software (not a trial, not a limited version – but a registered and legal version of the software) I usually scoop it up.  Here are a few of the sites I regularly visit to find the un-pirated, licensed software/apps I need at the great price of Zero!

Free Sample: ProX Skin Analyzer

Olay is currently giving out a free ProX Skin Analyzer. It comes in the form of a headband and is designed to analyze your skin. Basically it is a personalized skin evaluation that you can do at home. Armed with the information, you can then treat your skin accordingly.

In order to get the free ProX Skin Analyzer headband from Olay, you must head to the free product request form. There you will need to fill in your full name, mailing address, birth date, and email address. Be sure to confirm your email address in the second email box. Finally, you have the option of checking the box to sign up for Olay’s newsletter, which will keep you up to date on their latest products and free sample offers. When you have finished filling out this form, click the “submit” button.

Free Sample: Timmy Bitties

What is Timmy Bitties you ask? It is an all-natural dietary supplement. Not only is the supplement full of vitamin C to combat those winter colds, but it also contains other nutrients that will help to boost your immune system. The free sample comes in a packet that you simply add to a glass of water.

Instead of sugar, Timmy Bitties is sweetened with Stevia, which doesn’t contain any calories. This is essential since the company wants to market the product to individuals who are watching their weight, as well as those who are concerned about their health. I have not personally tried this supplement yet to attest as to whether it is delicious or not, but have requested the free sample. You really don’t have anything to lose because you aren’t paying to try it.

A Gentleman's Shave

Are you in need of a great shave?  Have you felt that this modern technology in shaving is just too overrated?  What is the good of 5 blades if one blade does the same job in the same amount of time?

Well if you have ever asked yourself these odd but relevant questions, then you are in luck.  For a simple, easy price of $39.99, you can be the proud owner of your own straight razor shaving kit.  With this kit, you will always feel like the proper gentleman.  Never again will you be hiding your lame normal four or five bladed razors because you will be ahead of the curve.

Since this is a beginning kit, it comes with a practice straight razor so don’t be too worried that you may accidently end up on the wrong side of the blade.  With this stylish set, you will surely feel like Capone and can begin the days with that feeling that you may just take over the city with the shave that you just had.

Free Sample: Nutrition Bar from Life Choice

Life Choice is currently offering a free sample of one of their delicious nutrition bars. The offer is available through Wal-Mart. Life Choice is promoting four different types of nutrition bars. First, there is the meal bar, which gives you a quick boost of nutrition should you need to skip breakfast. Second, Life Choice has an energy bar. This bar will give you a bit of a pick-me-up in the afternoon when you begin to feel a bit sluggish. Third, you can try the protein bar. Protein is essential during the times of the day when you are more physically active. Finally, you can take advantage of the wellness bar, which is full of essential vitamins and minerals that are needed to keep you in tip-top shape.

Free Sample: Simple Purex


Purex is a well-known brand of laundry detergent. The company is currently giving away a free sample of its new product-Purex Triple Action Liquid Detergent. I make my own laundry detergent at home, but felt compelled to spread the word for those of you who prefer to purchase your laundry detergent at the grocery store.

Finding A Deal

When I’m looking for a great buy, I like a couple sites because they comprise many deals all on one page.  Isn’t that just special enough to make you smile?

The first site is slickdeals.net and the other, of course, is woot.com especially the sell out version of woot because of all the hot deals they display.

I check them on a regular basis, I mean multiple times a day.  Why?

Well I don’t want to miss out on something that I will kick myself for missing.  Have you ever wanted something terribly bad that you would wait ages for it to come down in price?  Well that is how I am except I like to hope that maybe, just maybe it will be on sale.  I like to hope for Ipads or tablets because that is my new thing but I would love other things too, mostly tech stuff.

I think you should check these spots out daily too because what if you see something you absolutely need and it is dirt cheap.  Doesn’t that sound wonderful?