Are you craving some pizza?  Well, thanks to the delivery option that many pizzerias have, you could be eating a warm slice in 30 minutes or less.  But are you aware that you may be incurring a delivery fee along with your extra cheese?  Many major chain pizzerias charge delivery fees not readily apparent to the customer.  So when you call to order your next pizza, inquire about the delivery fee.  It is usually no more than a few bucks per order.  If you are really strapped for cash, consider skipping delivery all together and pick up your order.  As a bonus you will get to pocket the tip as well.

Happy Savings,
Lisa- 21 Smart Ways
www.21smartways.com

As a new mom, I am constantly looking for ways to cut costs on everything from diapers to baby food.  A friend recently “clued” me in on an amazing way to save some cash.  She recommended that I use these current seasonal clearances to purchase summer clothes for my baby for next summer from now.   After I wrapped my mind around the fact that my little infant would not be that small forever, I quickly followed her advice.  Now that I think about it, I have used this concept to shop for myself for many years.   I use seasonal clearance to stock on summer and winter basics.  Fortunate for me, my clothing size has stayed pretty consistent from year to year.  In this case, I would just “fast forward” and buy my daughter’s clothing a bit larger…essentially buying “a year up”. The key is to put the clothing in a place where it is easy to find so that a year from now you can reap the rewards.  So, organization is definitely key!

Happy Savings,
Lisa- 21 Smart Ways
www.21smartways.com

I had a sandwich today for lunch and it was quite delicious.  As I bit into its simple goodness I could not help but think that it was a "recession resistant" food.

Here are some of my top picks for "recession resistant"  foods:

1. Peanut Butter
2. Jelly
3. Pasta (dry)
4. Flour
5. Potatoes
6. Fruits and Vegetables ( in-season or canned)

If you have not figured it out yet, I was eating a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Add these R&R ingredients to your grocery cart and make your dollar stretch.

Happy Savings,

Lisa- 21 Smart Ways
www.21smartways.com

Saving money can sometimes mean cutting back on extras like dining out.  However, cutting back does not necessarily mean cutting out. 

Here are a few restaurant weeks this summer; pop into one near you and experience great savings and awesome food!

New York Restaurant Week
July 12-25

Boston Restaurant Week
August 15-20, 22-27

Washington DC Restaurant Week
August 16-22

For a full list of restaurant weeks throughout the year and across the nation check out the new e-book "21 Smart Ways to Save Money Now" on our website. 

Happy Savings,
Lisa- 21 Smart Ways
www.21smartways.com  

 Are you still using incandescent bulbs? If you are… you are wasting time, energy and ultimately money.  Time is being wasted because you will spend more time replacing these standard bulbs over the course of your life (fluorescent bulbs last longer).  These bulbs “blow out” all the time.  Energy is being wasted because incandescent bulbs are less efficient.  A 15-watt fluorescent bulb can produce the same amount of energy as a 60-watt incandescent bulb!  Also, although fluorescent bulbs are more costly initially, over the course of the life of the bulb you will definitely save more money.  So be wise and don’t blow it.

Happy Savings,
Lisa-21 Smart Ways
www.21smartways.com

Do you really want to save some money on healthcare...? Well get on the move!  Studies show that people that exercise have decreased chances of diabetes, hypertension, cancer, depression and other diseases.  Not to mention, you can save money on medication and clothes too.

Happy Savings,
Lisa- 21 Smart Ways
www.21smartways.com

Well summer is in full swing and so is the heat.  But does your will to cool off wreck your budget?  Try some of these simple tips to lower your electricity bill:

• Close your blinds and curtains in the direction of the sun’s rays
• Save your chores such as using the dishwasher, vacuuming and washing your clothes for the evening when the sun has already set. Using these items during the day will only make your air conditioner work harder.
• Turn on that fan!  Your air conditioner can use all the help that it can get.

Happy Savings,
Lisa- 21 Smart Ways
www.21smartways.com

 

Independence Day is fast approaching and what a great opportunity for you to "pop" into stores for great savings.  Furniture, clothing  and grocery stores are giving consumers many opportunities to save.  For example, now is a great time to stock up on summer produce such as summer corn for the best savings and great quality.   I have been doing this for many years.  In the cooler months I take out my frozen corn and use it in soups and chowders for a great warm pick me up.  So "pop" in to a store near you and take advantage of these terrific holiday savings!

Happy Savings,
Lisa- 21 Smart Ways
www.21smartways.com 

Do you remember when life was more simple?  Restaurant menus had fewer choices, there were less television channels to “surf” and less choices at the grocery store?  Another thing you may have noticed is that things were also less convenient.  But times have changed haven’t they? We have quickly become a society of convenience. Have you noticed that when life was more simple that you also spent less?   Nowadays, you can buy your cheese already grated, your crust already removed from your bread, your eggs already boiled and your pancakes already made.  All this, from the convenience of the refrigerator or freezer section of your grocery store! 

Well, you may have noticed that with this added convenience also comes added expenses.  So if you really want to save money go back to basics.  Reconstitute your own juice beverage (frozen concentrates), grate your own cheese and remove your own bread crusts.  I still can’t believe that the product “Uncrustables” exists.

Happy Savings,
Lisa-21 Smart Ways
www.21smartways.com

It is officially the flu season.  Have you received your flu shot yet?  If not, here is something to consider: Why not shoot up for less? Before you run to your doctor's office check your local county or health department website first.  They just may be offering the shot for free to county residents or at a discounted rate.  If not, don't forget to check your local grocery stores and pharmacies.  Some establishments offer special coupons and/or discounts for a limited time to patrons as an added incentive.  Isn't time you got your shot?

Happy Savings,
Lisa-21smartways.com
http://www.21smartways.com/