Over recent years I have been hearing the word Freegan time and time again. The word Freegan is used to represent an Anti - consumerism movement in which its members believe in things like finding shelter through becoming squatters, obtaining food through "rescuing" still good items of food that have been thrown away by restaurants or markets and while the word is a combination of Free and Vegan, not all Freegans are Vegan, however some are and in general many of the ideologies are the same.
Being a Freegan is an interesting idea and concept on many fronts. Our society can tend to be over - indulgent and driven by all things "label" but is being a Freegan safe? Are there health risks? Take a look at this Wikipedia article on what it means to be Freegan and let us here at Mooching with JADE know your thoughts.
Nothing like a hot debate over an ism...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freeganism
xo - Dana
Monday, October 10, 2011
Monday, September 19, 2011
Most of you, if not all of you have been to or know about Farmer's Markets. When thinking of Farmer's Markets people tend to think more about food and snacks and edible items but one thing to remember is that most Farmer's Markets have lovely flowers and bouquets. What you might spend 50 dollars and more for on a floral website or in a flower shop, you can get at a Farmer's Market for ten dollars or under. Looking to make your desk at work a little happier? Surprise your honey? Stop at the Farmer's Market near you and grab a bouquet! Below you will find a list of some great Farmer's Markets in NYC and LA :) - Enjoy - xo Dana
http://www.experiencela.com/destinations/farmersmarket
http://www.grownyc.org/unionsquaregreenmarket
http://www.experiencela.com/destinations/farmersmarket
http://www.grownyc.org/unionsquaregreenmarket
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Tips for frugal travelers
So I recently got back from a nice summer vaca in Chi-town and Detroit, and was able to see both cities on the cheap! I wished the shopping wasn’t so amazing as I still burned a hole in my wallet, but it was more bang for the buck. =)
Some tips/awesome finds:
Empty water bottle: So crucial for so many reasons. I bring an empty bottle to the airport, get through TSA, then fill it at the water fountain. No paying $4! I bring the bottle w/ me everywhere, as it’s easy to refill at museums, shopping centers, etc.
http://megabus.com: International bus site, super cheap, clean, and easy to use! My bus ride from Chicago to Detroit was only $18 and about 6 hours. Easy peasy and cheaper than gas for driving!
www.charmingcharlie.com: Very pretty, organized, and affordable jewelry/bag store I stumbled across in Chicago. Multiple locations. Earrings and necklaces ranged from $4-$12, and they looked really expensive!
www.platoscloset.com: Again, stumbled across this stylish thrift store w/ a good friend in Detroit, but there are many locations. I got tops for about $6, super cute! And they had adorable sundresses around $12, and don’t get me started on the purses!
And finally I have to give a shout out to the redeye. Save $ on a hotel room and just fly overnight and check in your bags in the morning until it’s time to officially check in. Coffee is cheaper than an extra night, and you’ve got adrenaline pumpin to see a new city anyhow!
Safe travels,
A of J.A.D.E.
Some tips/awesome finds:
Empty water bottle: So crucial for so many reasons. I bring an empty bottle to the airport, get through TSA, then fill it at the water fountain. No paying $4! I bring the bottle w/ me everywhere, as it’s easy to refill at museums, shopping centers, etc.
http://megabus.com: International bus site, super cheap, clean, and easy to use! My bus ride from Chicago to Detroit was only $18 and about 6 hours. Easy peasy and cheaper than gas for driving!
www.charmingcharlie.com: Very pretty, organized, and affordable jewelry/bag store I stumbled across in Chicago. Multiple locations. Earrings and necklaces ranged from $4-$12, and they looked really expensive!
www.platoscloset.com: Again, stumbled across this stylish thrift store w/ a good friend in Detroit, but there are many locations. I got tops for about $6, super cute! And they had adorable sundresses around $12, and don’t get me started on the purses!
And finally I have to give a shout out to the redeye. Save $ on a hotel room and just fly overnight and check in your bags in the morning until it’s time to officially check in. Coffee is cheaper than an extra night, and you’ve got adrenaline pumpin to see a new city anyhow!
Safe travels,
A of J.A.D.E.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf in NYC
Well, the time has come and the coffee joints in a very coffee centric city are now getting even more plentiful!
New Yorkers love choices and they love coffee but the big question is, will the addition of the first ever Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf be a success? Their prices are just about the same as Starbucks but with NYC chock full of mom and pop coffee houses and street cart coffee at a cheaper price, it's hard to say.
My prediction is that this will be a new trend for a little while and will then fizzle out...
Many people from CA live in NYC so I'm sure they will love the new addition, but if you ask me, nothing beats a good ole NYC coffee cart 75 cent cup of Joe!
http://www.zagat.com/buzz/the-coffee-bean-and-tea-leaf-opens-today-in-midtown
New Yorkers love choices and they love coffee but the big question is, will the addition of the first ever Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf be a success? Their prices are just about the same as Starbucks but with NYC chock full of mom and pop coffee houses and street cart coffee at a cheaper price, it's hard to say.
My prediction is that this will be a new trend for a little while and will then fizzle out...
Many people from CA live in NYC so I'm sure they will love the new addition, but if you ask me, nothing beats a good ole NYC coffee cart 75 cent cup of Joe!
http://www.zagat.com/buzz/the-coffee-bean-and-tea-leaf-opens-today-in-midtown
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
MASON JARS!
I've gotten made fun of for this in the past (and well still do in present time) but nothing will ever stop me from thinking that Mason jars are quite possibly the most versatile thing out there.
If you take a little time to clean out old pickle jars, mayonaise jars, sauce jars, you name it, you are going to be left with these wonderful glass jars that can be re-used over and over again as cups, vin
tage cocktail glasses (think Long Island Iced Tea served with an 1920's flare), storage containers, candle holders...the list goes on.
I encourage you to think before you throw your next jar into the recycle bin...
Also note, this idea is becoming quite trendy in the wedding world...What a fun way to serve fun drinks...Long live the Mason jar!
If you take a little time to clean out old pickle jars, mayonaise jars, sauce jars, you name it, you are going to be left with these wonderful glass jars that can be re-used over and over again as cups, vin
tage cocktail glasses (think Long Island Iced Tea served with an 1920's flare), storage containers, candle holders...the list goes on.
I encourage you to think before you throw your next jar into the recycle bin...
Also note, this idea is becoming quite trendy in the wedding world...What a fun way to serve fun drinks...Long live the Mason jar!
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Crossroads Clothing Stores
I know that Crossroads is a place that (if you know me at all) I talk about too much, but there is good reason! Crossroads is not only a great place to find on trend clothing and accessories on the cheap, but you can bring in your clothes, shoes and accessories and sell them for cash or store credit.
For each item of yours that they take, you get 35% of the price they are going to sell it for or if you would rather do store credit, you get 50% of the price!
This is a fun way to shop without hurting your wallet.
Think of it as a clothing exchange or a way to make a few extra bucks if you are having a tight week...come on now, you all know you have some clothes and shoes and other assorted items in your closet that you sure could stand to get rid of!
Check out their website for locations and details:
http://crossroadstrading.com/used-clothes-stores/
For each item of yours that they take, you get 35% of the price they are going to sell it for or if you would rather do store credit, you get 50% of the price!
This is a fun way to shop without hurting your wallet.
Think of it as a clothing exchange or a way to make a few extra bucks if you are having a tight week...come on now, you all know you have some clothes and shoes and other assorted items in your closet that you sure could stand to get rid of!
Check out their website for locations and details:
http://crossroadstrading.com/used-clothes-stores/
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Free Ways to get in Shape!
Many people feel that working out is too much of an expense right now because classes are expensive, gym memberships are expensive, the list goes on...well I am here to tell you that there are many great ways to work out that do not include any money at all! With summer upon us there is no time like the present to whip your body into shape and put on that bathing suit that you have been afraid of! Below is my list of great ways to get in the groove without having the dollars move out of your wallet!
1 - If the company you work for has a free on site gym...USE IT!
2 - If your apartment building has a free on site gym...USE IT!
3 - Run or speed walk around your neighborhood for 30 minutes three times a week
4 - Take the stairs at work instead of the elevator (apply the same rule in your apartment building)
5 - Walk during your lunch break. Think before you get in the car (or on the subway or bus)...if your lunch destination is less than a mile from where you work, WALK IT!
6 - While watching TV at night use arm weights and during commercial breaks get up and do squats.
I hope that some of these tips help you to get in shape for free!
We wanna see you all looking good for less in your favorite beach wear
(and remember if you have any illnesses or injuries, talk to your Dr first!)
Enjoy!
D of J.A.D.E.
1 - If the company you work for has a free on site gym...USE IT!
2 - If your apartment building has a free on site gym...USE IT!
3 - Run or speed walk around your neighborhood for 30 minutes three times a week
4 - Take the stairs at work instead of the elevator (apply the same rule in your apartment building)
5 - Walk during your lunch break. Think before you get in the car (or on the subway or bus)...if your lunch destination is less than a mile from where you work, WALK IT!
6 - While watching TV at night use arm weights and during commercial breaks get up and do squats.
I hope that some of these tips help you to get in shape for free!
We wanna see you all looking good for less in your favorite beach wear
(and remember if you have any illnesses or injuries, talk to your Dr first!)
Enjoy!
D of J.A.D.E.
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Girly freebies at The Perfect Cup by Skinny Cow
Save Cash at the Caf
When dealing with a cafeteria who charges extras for everything from 15 cents if you add honey to your hot beverage to $1 if you get avocado on your sandwich, it is especially thrilling when you actually find a deal. I’ve got 3 :-)
The first is applicable to many cafeterias. Since items from the salad bar are charged by weight, rather than putting the dressing on the salad, put it in a small container on the side. You will enjoy the added benefit of no soggy lettuce when you get back to your desk to munch. I’ve even gotten so bold as to add blue cheese crumbles to right into the salad dressing container! If you are more virtuous you could keep a bottle of dressing from home at the office to avoid adding the ounces to your greens.
The next 2 are specific to our office. If you get fruit in the morning they have separate dishes for each fruit in the salad bar section. Again, this must get weighed. However at lunch they serve the same offering of fruits as the morning but all mixed together in a fruit salad as a side dish. This costs significantly less. With some planning ahead you can still have your am fruit by buying fruit salad the night before and sticking it in the fridge. Or you could have a late breakfast around 10:30 when they start setting up for lunch.
Finally, today’s find: sides a la carte are only $1.50 so on a day with good side options you can put together a pretty cheap meal. I got a heaping portion of mac n' cheese and mixed vegetables for only $3.
What are your cafeteria tricks?
The first is applicable to many cafeterias. Since items from the salad bar are charged by weight, rather than putting the dressing on the salad, put it in a small container on the side. You will enjoy the added benefit of no soggy lettuce when you get back to your desk to munch. I’ve even gotten so bold as to add blue cheese crumbles to right into the salad dressing container! If you are more virtuous you could keep a bottle of dressing from home at the office to avoid adding the ounces to your greens.
The next 2 are specific to our office. If you get fruit in the morning they have separate dishes for each fruit in the salad bar section. Again, this must get weighed. However at lunch they serve the same offering of fruits as the morning but all mixed together in a fruit salad as a side dish. This costs significantly less. With some planning ahead you can still have your am fruit by buying fruit salad the night before and sticking it in the fridge. Or you could have a late breakfast around 10:30 when they start setting up for lunch.
Finally, today’s find: sides a la carte are only $1.50 so on a day with good side options you can put together a pretty cheap meal. I got a heaping portion of mac n' cheese and mixed vegetables for only $3.
What are your cafeteria tricks?
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Tea Exchange
Here's an idea for all of you tea lovers out there...
Do a tea exchange!
Myself and some girlfriends at work today did one and its a great way to try new teas before you go out and buy a whole box (without knowing whether or not you will actually like it).
Here's the idea. You and your friends agree on a date and on that day each of you brings in a tea bag for each of the other people. Depending on how many of you decide to do this you could end up with a box chock full of varying teas to try.
Today I ended up with Green Tea, Ti Kuan Yin Tea, Lipton Tea, etc.
It's lots of fun and a great way to get some super sampling on with little effort/cost...
Give it a try, maybe you will end up finding your new favorite tea flavor!
Enjoy!
D of J.A.D.E.
Do a tea exchange!
Myself and some girlfriends at work today did one and its a great way to try new teas before you go out and buy a whole box (without knowing whether or not you will actually like it).
Here's the idea. You and your friends agree on a date and on that day each of you brings in a tea bag for each of the other people. Depending on how many of you decide to do this you could end up with a box chock full of varying teas to try.
Today I ended up with Green Tea, Ti Kuan Yin Tea, Lipton Tea, etc.
It's lots of fun and a great way to get some super sampling on with little effort/cost...
Give it a try, maybe you will end up finding your new favorite tea flavor!
Enjoy!
D of J.A.D.E.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Cappuccino in Italy!
I'm just back from a great trip to Rome and one of my favorite parts of the trip was getting a Cappuccino every morning at the local caffe! One of the greatest parts about this morning journey was that in Rome the Cappuccinos ranged from .90 to 1.40 euros which is approximately the equivalent of 1.05 to 1.85 cents! I was in heaven! How tired are you of paying over 3 dollars, many times closer to 4 or 5 at Starbucks!
My main message in this blog is that it's important to travel and when you do, it's important to seek out the bargains!
If you happen to find yourself in Rome or any part of Italy for that matter, be sure to wake up with a nice Cappuccino, the taste will please you and the price will please you even more!
A true European treat!
Enjoy!
D of J.A.D.E.
My main message in this blog is that it's important to travel and when you do, it's important to seek out the bargains!
If you happen to find yourself in Rome or any part of Italy for that matter, be sure to wake up with a nice Cappuccino, the taste will please you and the price will please you even more!
A true European treat!
Enjoy!
D of J.A.D.E.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Heading to a Far Away Land??? Pack Light!
Since I am about to leave on a trip to Italy I thought now would be a great time to talk about packing light and saving tons of money on checked bags.
So many of you are over packers...come on, you know you are...don't try to deny it!
The thing is so often we think we will need all of these items that we never will during the length of the trip, while on top of that it's so rare that you will be traveling some place where you wouldn't be able to buy something you might need in a pinch.
Think of it like this...just because you are going away for 10 days does not mean you need ten pairs of shoes. Really, when you are home do you wear a different pair of shoes everyday? Probably not, so why should it be different when you travel? When you are home do you change your clothes three times in a day or more, again, probably not! So really you don't need a million outfit changes.
We so often get consumed with what we need when in truth all we really need for a trip, or life in general, can fit into one suitcase.
Before you pack two toothbrushes because well you might lose one, really think about it...when was the last time you lost a toothbrush?
Before you pack the skirt you haven't worn in ten years, the heels that hurt your feet, the camera that you don't know how to use, the blow dryer that wont work cause you are going oversees, the ten books that you wont read, the 12 extra pairs of socks and underwear that will return home clean...take a deep breath. You are not facing the end of the world, you are going away for a week.
Trust me you will be so much happier when you and your one bag walk onto the plane and you don't have to pay a fee to check bags or have to wait for that bag to be the last bag off the shoot at baggage claim, or worse yet, your bag gets lost!
Much like family and good friends...if you always keep everything you need close to you, you will never have a problem.
xoxo
D of J.A.D.E.
So many of you are over packers...come on, you know you are...don't try to deny it!
The thing is so often we think we will need all of these items that we never will during the length of the trip, while on top of that it's so rare that you will be traveling some place where you wouldn't be able to buy something you might need in a pinch.
Think of it like this...just because you are going away for 10 days does not mean you need ten pairs of shoes. Really, when you are home do you wear a different pair of shoes everyday? Probably not, so why should it be different when you travel? When you are home do you change your clothes three times in a day or more, again, probably not! So really you don't need a million outfit changes.
We so often get consumed with what we need when in truth all we really need for a trip, or life in general, can fit into one suitcase.
Before you pack two toothbrushes because well you might lose one, really think about it...when was the last time you lost a toothbrush?
Before you pack the skirt you haven't worn in ten years, the heels that hurt your feet, the camera that you don't know how to use, the blow dryer that wont work cause you are going oversees, the ten books that you wont read, the 12 extra pairs of socks and underwear that will return home clean...take a deep breath. You are not facing the end of the world, you are going away for a week.
Trust me you will be so much happier when you and your one bag walk onto the plane and you don't have to pay a fee to check bags or have to wait for that bag to be the last bag off the shoot at baggage claim, or worse yet, your bag gets lost!
Much like family and good friends...if you always keep everything you need close to you, you will never have a problem.
xoxo
D of J.A.D.E.
Friday, June 3, 2011
Free music!
Summer is here and there's nothing better than going to a free show, especially during the warm summer nights! I always check out KCRW sponsored shows as most are free and the music is always good:
http://www.kcrw.com/events/summer-nights-2011
Also, I'm a fan of Grand Performances. They have world music and often give free instructional dance lessons on Fridays. Check out their July schedule especially for the free noontime concerts for the lunch crowd:
http://grandperformances.org/en/gp/events/calendar.html?month=6&day=3&year=2011&langId=en
To top it off, I often get ads for free downloads from:
http://www.emusic.com/
Right now they offer a $20 credit (which is pretty much 20 songs) that you can d/l legally and for free. Their cancellation policy is really easy. Trust me, I've tried. ;)
Enjoy and happy grooving!
A of J.A.D.E.
http://www.kcrw.com/events/summer-nights-2011
Also, I'm a fan of Grand Performances. They have world music and often give free instructional dance lessons on Fridays. Check out their July schedule especially for the free noontime concerts for the lunch crowd:
http://grandperformances.org/en/gp/events/calendar.html?month=6&day=3&year=2011&langId=en
To top it off, I often get ads for free downloads from:
http://www.emusic.com/
Right now they offer a $20 credit (which is pretty much 20 songs) that you can d/l legally and for free. Their cancellation policy is really easy. Trust me, I've tried. ;)
Enjoy and happy grooving!
A of J.A.D.E.
Friday, May 27, 2011
Sangria Recipe
For all holiday weekends, its key to have fun!
Usually that fun involves good friends, food and drinks and maybe even an out of town trip.
As the summer time quickly approaches and with the first warm weather three day weekend upon us, I thought this would be a great time to share an inexpensive sangria recipe.
It's the perfect drink for a backyard bbq, a beach party, sitting on the porch and kicking back...hanging on the terrace or rooftop...you get the idea!
Simple and cheap sangria:
Carlo Rossi Sangria Wine (large jug only 6 dollars, serves many many people!)
Handful of strawberries
Handful of blueberries
One lemon
One orange
One mango
Small bottle of ginger ale
Poor the Carlo Rossi Sangria Wine into a large jug, dice up the fruit and toss that in, then add all of the ginger ale. Let your Sangria sit in the fridge for about an hour or two and then you are ready to serve!
Have a great holiday weekend and be safe. (this recipe is only for those 21 and over!)
D of J.A.D.E.
Usually that fun involves good friends, food and drinks and maybe even an out of town trip.
As the summer time quickly approaches and with the first warm weather three day weekend upon us, I thought this would be a great time to share an inexpensive sangria recipe.
It's the perfect drink for a backyard bbq, a beach party, sitting on the porch and kicking back...hanging on the terrace or rooftop...you get the idea!
Simple and cheap sangria:
Carlo Rossi Sangria Wine (large jug only 6 dollars, serves many many people!)
Handful of strawberries
Handful of blueberries
One lemon
One orange
One mango
Small bottle of ginger ale
Poor the Carlo Rossi Sangria Wine into a large jug, dice up the fruit and toss that in, then add all of the ginger ale. Let your Sangria sit in the fridge for about an hour or two and then you are ready to serve!
Have a great holiday weekend and be safe. (this recipe is only for those 21 and over!)
D of J.A.D.E.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Thrifty gifties :-)
Along Dana’s day-old-bagel lines, I too like to make off-peak purchases especially when it comes to gift supplies. I was finding the thrill of buying the perfect gift for someone at a bargain price was quickly diminished after the cashier rang up a card and gift wrap and the total was close to half the amount of the gift itself! Now I keep a container in my closet where I store gift bags, wrapping paper, tissue paper and ribbons. I stock up on these after Christmas, buying the most neutral ones I can find. I’ve noticed that many stores discount not just the Christmas-themed paper and bags but also solids as well. So I snatch those up and use them year round.
You don’t have to wait until Christmas to build up your supply. Today I found greeting cards for $1 so I stocked up on birthday, anniversary, thank you and congratulations cards. When you compare this to the $4+ they charge at Hallmark, it’s a steal! I keep them all in a shoebox (sorted by category) in the same closet I store my wrapping supplies. With cards for all occasions, I’m always prepared when a card-worthy event pops up and I’m no longer caught off guard when my husband informs me that dinner we are on our way to is actually for someone’s birthday. The important thing is to get the most generic cards (not directed specifically at the sender’s sister, for example) so you’ll be sure to be able to use them.
Some other cheap options:
The 99 cent store is another place to turn when you need gift bags or tissue paper.
When people give me a gift in a bag, after I open the gift I fold up the bag and add it to my arsenal. Most people don’t even bother to write on the tag attached to the bag and if they do, I tear it off.
What do you do to save on gift wrap expenses?
What other items do you buy off-peak?
E. of J.A.D.E.
You don’t have to wait until Christmas to build up your supply. Today I found greeting cards for $1 so I stocked up on birthday, anniversary, thank you and congratulations cards. When you compare this to the $4+ they charge at Hallmark, it’s a steal! I keep them all in a shoebox (sorted by category) in the same closet I store my wrapping supplies. With cards for all occasions, I’m always prepared when a card-worthy event pops up and I’m no longer caught off guard when my husband informs me that dinner we are on our way to is actually for someone’s birthday. The important thing is to get the most generic cards (not directed specifically at the sender’s sister, for example) so you’ll be sure to be able to use them.
Some other cheap options:
The 99 cent store is another place to turn when you need gift bags or tissue paper.
When people give me a gift in a bag, after I open the gift I fold up the bag and add it to my arsenal. Most people don’t even bother to write on the tag attached to the bag and if they do, I tear it off.
What do you do to save on gift wrap expenses?
What other items do you buy off-peak?
E. of J.A.D.E.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Pandora Radio
Who can get through a day of work without music???
Not me!
Not any of us J.A.D.E. girls for that matter!
This is where Pandora internet radio comes in. Pandora offers 40 hours of free music a month! Plus the best part is that you can create your own stations based on artists you like. Are you a Moby fan, a Rush fan a Rascal Flats fan? No matter what type of music you like, type in the artist/group's name and Pandora will create a station for you featuring that artist/group and other bands/musicians with a similar sound.
This is also a great way to get to know the music of other artists who you may not have heard of before but who have a sound you enjoy.
Click the link below to get your Pandora stations going!
http://www.pandora.com/
PS - My Pandora station is currently playing Massive Attack :)
Rock on!
D of J.A.D.E.
Not me!
Not any of us J.A.D.E. girls for that matter!
This is where Pandora internet radio comes in. Pandora offers 40 hours of free music a month! Plus the best part is that you can create your own stations based on artists you like. Are you a Moby fan, a Rush fan a Rascal Flats fan? No matter what type of music you like, type in the artist/group's name and Pandora will create a station for you featuring that artist/group and other bands/musicians with a similar sound.
This is also a great way to get to know the music of other artists who you may not have heard of before but who have a sound you enjoy.
Click the link below to get your Pandora stations going!
http://www.pandora.com/
PS - My Pandora station is currently playing Massive Attack :)
Rock on!
D of J.A.D.E.
Monday, May 16, 2011
Well, it's Monday, the start of the work week and many of you may already be thinking about what to do when the weekend rolls around yet again...
For those upcoming weekend plans, I have a tip for you...Wine tasting!
Many of you are already familiar with the Napa Valley and Sonoma in Northern CA or with Santa Inez and Santa Barbara in Central CA, but many of you are not yet up on Temecula in Southern CA. Temecula is close to North County San Diego and about a 1.5 - 2 hour ride from LA (depending on where in LA you live).
Temecula is the home of some 12+ wineries, many with award winning, nationally and internationally recognized wines. The great thing about wine tasting in Temecula is that it has not yet become over - crowded and commercialized. You can have a great day and feel like you are away on vacation in a secluded, mellow environment.
As per usual we like to tell you about deals, the greatest part about most of these wineries is that they have very affordable wine tasting prices! Most of the wineries offer wine tastings for between 6 and 12 dollars and you get to keep the glass! Also, you can get free tours and free snacks at many of the locations.
Check out the link below for information about Temecula CA wineries. Us J.A.D.E. girls hope that you have a fun and relaxing weekend amongst the grapes!
http://www.temeculawines.org/wineries-vineyards/
Enjoy!
D of J.A.D.E.
For those upcoming weekend plans, I have a tip for you...Wine tasting!
Many of you are already familiar with the Napa Valley and Sonoma in Northern CA or with Santa Inez and Santa Barbara in Central CA, but many of you are not yet up on Temecula in Southern CA. Temecula is close to North County San Diego and about a 1.5 - 2 hour ride from LA (depending on where in LA you live).
Temecula is the home of some 12+ wineries, many with award winning, nationally and internationally recognized wines. The great thing about wine tasting in Temecula is that it has not yet become over - crowded and commercialized. You can have a great day and feel like you are away on vacation in a secluded, mellow environment.
As per usual we like to tell you about deals, the greatest part about most of these wineries is that they have very affordable wine tasting prices! Most of the wineries offer wine tastings for between 6 and 12 dollars and you get to keep the glass! Also, you can get free tours and free snacks at many of the locations.
Check out the link below for information about Temecula CA wineries. Us J.A.D.E. girls hope that you have a fun and relaxing weekend amongst the grapes!
http://www.temeculawines.org/wineries-vineyards/
Enjoy!
Friday, May 13, 2011
Togo's Sandwiches
The weekend is here!
Come on, I know you are excited :)
Today's deal is a no - brainer because it's about sandwiches! And let's face it, who doesn't like sandwiches?!?!
Togo's is a great sandwich shop, a chain like Subway, except many feel that the sandwiches are better at Togo's.
Everyday they have a different sandwich on special and for $5 dollars you get that sandwich plus chips and a drink! Some of the choices include Turkey and Cheese, Tuna, Turkey and Cranberry and many more!
If you aren't familiar with Togo's check out the link below.
http://www.togos.com/
Also, if you are in the mood for something on the smaller side, they have mini sandwiches for the low price of $3!
YUM
D of J.A.D.E.
Come on, I know you are excited :)
Today's deal is a no - brainer because it's about sandwiches! And let's face it, who doesn't like sandwiches?!?!
Togo's is a great sandwich shop, a chain like Subway, except many feel that the sandwiches are better at Togo's.
Everyday they have a different sandwich on special and for $5 dollars you get that sandwich plus chips and a drink! Some of the choices include Turkey and Cheese, Tuna, Turkey and Cranberry and many more!
If you aren't familiar with Togo's check out the link below.
http://www.togos.com/
Also, if you are in the mood for something on the smaller side, they have mini sandwiches for the low price of $3!
YUM
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Free Cone Day!
Psst psst, know what's awesome? Ice cream! Know what's even better? Free ice cream! Today is Free Cone Day at Haagen-Daaz! Only good between 4-8 pm, so save room after dinner! :)
J of J.A.D.E.
J of J.A.D.E.
Monday, May 9, 2011
The Big Cheese
If you love grilled cheese and are in St. Louis, you need to check out The Big Cheese!
The Big Cheese is a tasty grilled cheese cart which appears at the Tower Grove Farmers Market in St. Louis every Saturday between now and November. They also appear at the Market's Downtown location during lunch on Thursdays.
The Big Cheese is run by Dave and Susana and in addition to great grilled cheese, getting a smile from these friendly faces is an extra bonus!
Their grilled cheese is made from local ingredients from the finest farms showcasing the idea that supporting local businesses is the way to go (and the way to get the freshest food! What could be better???)
It seems to me that if you have a free Saturday and are in the St. Louis area heading to the Farmers Market to check out The Big Cheese is a no brain-er! Tasty grilled cheese prepared for you by great people with the best local ingredients..Need I say more! I think it's time that you mark your calendars!
Be sure to try out The Big Cheese and let us know what you think!
Have a cheesy day!
D of J.A.D.E.
The Big Cheese is a tasty grilled cheese cart which appears at the Tower Grove Farmers Market in St. Louis every Saturday between now and November. They also appear at the Market's Downtown location during lunch on Thursdays.
The Big Cheese is run by Dave and Susana and in addition to great grilled cheese, getting a smile from these friendly faces is an extra bonus!
Their grilled cheese is made from local ingredients from the finest farms showcasing the idea that supporting local businesses is the way to go (and the way to get the freshest food! What could be better???)
Be sure to try out The Big Cheese and let us know what you think!
Have a cheesy day!
D of J.A.D.E.
Friday, May 6, 2011
If You Don't Know Now Ya Know! Nut Carts!
Today's bit of advice comes straight off the street.
In an effort to expand on my NYC coffee cart post from last week, I realized that there is another great piece of NYC cart fabulous-ness that I absolutely must share with all of you readers...
NUT CARTS!
Much like the coffee carts which line the streets of NYC, there are also great carts that sell bags of roasted and coated peanuts, cashews, almonds and more! Think of the coating as a sweet candy shell made of honey, roasted to perfection.
These bags of nuts cost between 1 and 3 dollars and are an amazing bang for your buck. A sweet and somewhat healthy (as nuts are healthy) treat as you are walking down the street.
A true NYC goodie!
D of J.A.D.E.
In an effort to expand on my NYC coffee cart post from last week, I realized that there is another great piece of NYC cart fabulous-ness that I absolutely must share with all of you readers...
NUT CARTS!
These bags of nuts cost between 1 and 3 dollars and are an amazing bang for your buck. A sweet and somewhat healthy (as nuts are healthy) treat as you are walking down the street.
A true NYC goodie!
D of J.A.D.E.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
Don Cuco's Sunday Brunch
What's not to love about Champagne Brunch??? Exactly, nothing!
Sunday Brunch really is one of the most fun food outings that one could have.
One of the key ingredients to a good Sunday Brunch is Champagne and the other is a buffet fit for a King or Queen!
At Don Cuco's in Glendale, CA you will find both and at a price that will be music to your wallet!
For $17.99 you will have access to a gigantic buffet with more food choices than you could imagine as well as an omelet bar (so fun!) this is of course in addition to the endless Champagne! FUN!
I suggest this Brunch for Mother's Day :) how could mom not feel loved after that!
Check out the link below for more details...
http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/5/64360/restaurant/LA/Don-Cuco-Glendale
Enjoy!
D of J.A.D.E.
Sunday Brunch really is one of the most fun food outings that one could have.
One of the key ingredients to a good Sunday Brunch is Champagne and the other is a buffet fit for a King or Queen!
At Don Cuco's in Glendale, CA you will find both and at a price that will be music to your wallet!
For $17.99 you will have access to a gigantic buffet with more food choices than you could imagine as well as an omelet bar (so fun!) this is of course in addition to the endless Champagne! FUN!
I suggest this Brunch for Mother's Day :) how could mom not feel loved after that!
Check out the link below for more details...
http://www.urbanspoon.com/r/5/64360/restaurant/LA/Don-Cuco-Glendale
Enjoy!
D of J.A.D.E.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
Go Metro!
You know those days when not even your favorite band can save you from the boredom of sitting in bumper to bumper LA traffic? I don't because I take the Metro to work! Instead of cursing $4.30 a gallon while sitting on the 101, I get to enjoy the company of a very colorful crowd during my daily commute. True, there are the occasional individuals who don't believe in bathing or some very vocal Elton John wannabes who are compelled to share their love of song while on a crowded train amongst strangers, but this is exactly why we love LA, right? Right!
Metro is offering a free three day passes good to use on their buses and rails. Time to start planning that trip to Long Beach, Hollywood or Little Tokyo! Just remember to bring your hand sanitizer. ;D
J of J.A.D.E.
Metro is offering a free three day passes good to use on their buses and rails. Time to start planning that trip to Long Beach, Hollywood or Little Tokyo! Just remember to bring your hand sanitizer. ;D
J of J.A.D.E.
Happy Hour Just Got Extra Happy
From 5/6-5/15, between the hours of 3 pm-5 pm, Starbucks is offering any of their blended Frappuccinos at half off! So whether you need that java chip to get you through the day, have been wanting to try their strawberries and creme, or are going to create your own blended frap, enjoy it at a 50% discount! Doesn't that make the deal even sweeter?
J of J.A.D.E.
J of J.A.D.E.
Monday, May 2, 2011
First Class Free
If you love to work out, but don’t want to pay $15-$20 bucks a pop for a class, this list is for you! There are tons of new student specials you can take advantage of at all the yoga/pilates studios, and most are first class free! It’s possible to studio hop for months and not pay a dime. Enjoy!
Yoga Shelter
Multiple Locations – Studio City is closest
First week free – unlimited classes!!
Mission Street Yoga
Pasadena
They always have a lot of cool events/workshops for free. J
Liberation Yoga
Mid-city
One of my favorites – there’s kind of an outdoor garden/patio where they practice
Dharma Yoga
Long Beach
I’ve yet to try this, but friends have rave reviews. Outdoors and donation-based.
Runyon Canyon Yoga
Hollywood
Used to go almost every day, donation-based. On a hill outdoors in the park, occasional gopher sightings!
Pop Physique
Multiple
A tad pretentious but pretty cool. Similar to barre method. Sign up for their newsletter to get free classes.
YAS
Multiple
Usually first class free, and also free on the day of your birthday!
Lulu Lemon
Multiple
The Pasadena one has some interesting free classes. I’ve taken the SD yoga class and enjoyed it a bunch. I’m not a runner but they do promise free snacks after their Sat morning run club, which is very encouraging, haha.
Silverlake Bikram Yoga
Silverlake
$20 for 1 week special.
IDA Hollywood
Hollywood
Call them to double check, but it’s normally 1st class free if you ask the front desk. They have a lot of awesome 1 hour dance classes!
Pilates Plus
Multiple – downtown LA is closest
This is w/ the reformer. A decent first class free for us, but the teacher will definitely make or break your experience.
Enjoy!
Alice
Free Samples at Trader Joe's
Many of you may already be in love with Trader Joe's, but for those of you who are not yet aboard the love train, you better hop on!
Not only does Trader Joe's have great deals on food and wine (think 2 buck chuck aka Charles Shaw wine for $1.99)...all day everyday there are free samples being given out there. While you are walking through the store shopping for all of your great deals, you will also be treated to a little slice of pizza, a mini garden salad a slice of cheese, you name it! I must say that Trader Joe's has some of the best free samples ever!
Of course they are savvy and hope that after tasting a free sample, you will buy the product, but hey, what's wrong with that! Good ole marketing skills never hurt any business and you will get the benefit of finding out about great new food that they sell while having a treat to help your shopping trip move along faster.
Enjoy!
D of J.A.D.E
Not only does Trader Joe's have great deals on food and wine (think 2 buck chuck aka Charles Shaw wine for $1.99)...all day everyday there are free samples being given out there. While you are walking through the store shopping for all of your great deals, you will also be treated to a little slice of pizza, a mini garden salad a slice of cheese, you name it! I must say that Trader Joe's has some of the best free samples ever!
Of course they are savvy and hope that after tasting a free sample, you will buy the product, but hey, what's wrong with that! Good ole marketing skills never hurt any business and you will get the benefit of finding out about great new food that they sell while having a treat to help your shopping trip move along faster.
Enjoy!
D of J.A.D.E
Friday, April 29, 2011
NYC Coffee Carts!
I know I know I know, many of us have a fond place in our hearts for designer coffee such as Starbucks, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, etc...but if you are a New Yorker, or plan to visit New York, be sure that while you are there you forgo the 4 dollar Chai Latte and grab a 75 cent Cup of Joe from your friendly street corner coffee cart!
These carts are great...in the morning, up until about 11am, you will find them lining the street corners in the City with a great selection of bagels, rolls, doughnuts, pastries, tea and good ole coffee! You can often get a bagel and a cup of coffee for a dollar or a dollar fifty.
Aside from the wonderfully frugal aspect of these carts you will also find that your neighborhood coffee cart guy is happy and smiley and gives you a friendly hello which will put a spring in your morning step.
Moral of the story...don't forget the little guy, for many reasons...taste, friendliness and frugal-ness!
D of J.A.D.E.
Enjoy your weekend
These carts are great...in the morning, up until about 11am, you will find them lining the street corners in the City with a great selection of bagels, rolls, doughnuts, pastries, tea and good ole coffee! You can often get a bagel and a cup of coffee for a dollar or a dollar fifty.
Aside from the wonderfully frugal aspect of these carts you will also find that your neighborhood coffee cart guy is happy and smiley and gives you a friendly hello which will put a spring in your morning step.
Moral of the story...don't forget the little guy, for many reasons...taste, friendliness and frugal-ness!
D of J.A.D.E.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
The 99 Cent Store!
For some shopping at the 99 Cent store is a secret obsession, for others it's something you wear proudly because you know that a truly savvy shopper values the great deals that can be found there. Others haven't yet taken the time to stop into a 99 Cent store, for those of you, I say do it now!
I strongly suggest to those of you who live near a 99 Cent store to stop in (if it's not already part of your regular routine)...gone are the days of the 99 Cent store only selling no name products and second rate quality.
Here is a list of some of the most recent, AMAZING, bargains that I found at the 99 Cent store...all name brands I might add!
Pack of three Sorrento String Cheese for 99 Cents
4 Yoplait Yogurts for 99 Cents
Various Pastas for 59 Cents a box
Land O' Lakes Butter 99 Cents for a box of four sticks
Greeting Cards for all occasions 99 Cents each
Irish Spring Bars of Soap (2 Pack) 99 Cents
VO5 Shampoo and Conditioner in various scents 99 Cents
And the list goes on!
Don't be afraid to make the 99 Cent store part of your shopping experience, trust me, you won't be disappointed!
D of J.A.D.E.
I strongly suggest to those of you who live near a 99 Cent store to stop in (if it's not already part of your regular routine)...gone are the days of the 99 Cent store only selling no name products and second rate quality.
Here is a list of some of the most recent, AMAZING, bargains that I found at the 99 Cent store...all name brands I might add!
Pack of three Sorrento String Cheese for 99 Cents
4 Yoplait Yogurts for 99 Cents
Various Pastas for 59 Cents a box
Land O' Lakes Butter 99 Cents for a box of four sticks
Greeting Cards for all occasions 99 Cents each
Irish Spring Bars of Soap (2 Pack) 99 Cents
VO5 Shampoo and Conditioner in various scents 99 Cents
And the list goes on!
Don't be afraid to make the 99 Cent store part of your shopping experience, trust me, you won't be disappointed!
D of J.A.D.E.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Day Old Bagels...WHY NOT!
So here's the question...if you buy a package of bagels from the supermarket, you keep them around at your house for at least a week, so when going to a bagel store or bakery, why not buy the day old bagel or muffin...Let me tell you, there is no reason not to!
Most bagel stores and bakeries feature greatly reduced prices on bagels, muffins, scones and other baked goods that they made fresh or received in their store the day before. There is nothing wrong with them, they are not stale or moldy, they are just as good as if you would have purchased them the day before.
Groundworks Coffee (with various locations in LA) features daily, a basket of baked goods from the day before at prices between 50 cents and a dollar which is more than 50% off what the baked good was the day before.
In these times when people are feeling the budget crunch and the pinching in the wallet, I suggest trying a day old bagel or muffin...and trust me, you will need the extra two dollars to put into your gas tank for those rising fuel costs!
PS - while at any bagel store or bakery if you ask one of the workers if they have day old products, I guarantee they will and you will walk out with a lot of loot for a little bit spent.
Enjoy!
D of J.A.D.E.
Most bagel stores and bakeries feature greatly reduced prices on bagels, muffins, scones and other baked goods that they made fresh or received in their store the day before. There is nothing wrong with them, they are not stale or moldy, they are just as good as if you would have purchased them the day before.
Groundworks Coffee (with various locations in LA) features daily, a basket of baked goods from the day before at prices between 50 cents and a dollar which is more than 50% off what the baked good was the day before.
In these times when people are feeling the budget crunch and the pinching in the wallet, I suggest trying a day old bagel or muffin...and trust me, you will need the extra two dollars to put into your gas tank for those rising fuel costs!
PS - while at any bagel store or bakery if you ask one of the workers if they have day old products, I guarantee they will and you will walk out with a lot of loot for a little bit spent.
Enjoy!
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
The Mooching Journey Begins!
As it happens, I have always been excited by free samples, discounts, deals, anything where I felt like I was getting something for nothing or should I say, something without having to feel the pinch in my wallet! This is not to say that I am cheap, just frugal and I understand and get excited by putting my money towards the important things in life (like trips to far away lands - where also as it happens, I go in search of free stuff!)...
Over the last year I have been fortunate enough to meet three other women who also share a love for all things free, deal savvy and sample-tastic!
We have collectively decided to pool our resources (that would be our vast knowledge of where, how and when to find such awesomeness) and share it with the world!
We hope that you enjoy our blog as we give you great advice on where to go for the best of the best in LA, NYC and lands of far!
To get things started I am going to make a recommendation for those of you who are in or around LA. If you happen to be in the Downtown area be sure to take a walk through the Farmer's Market near City Hall (1st Street and Spring). There you will find a bounty of free fruit and veggie samples along with samples of nuts, candy apples, flan, kettle corn and best of all, there is a stand that sells giant baked yams that will fill your belly for a whole day at the low cost of $4.75...who can resist a giant hot yam with butter and cinnamon and sugar sprinkled on top??? NOT ME!
Jeanne, Alice, Dana (that's me) and Elizabeth...the collective J.A.D.E girls, wish you happy mooching! We hope that you follow our blog to get the best advice on all thats out there to be advised on!
xoxoxoxo
Enjoy!
Over the last year I have been fortunate enough to meet three other women who also share a love for all things free, deal savvy and sample-tastic!
We have collectively decided to pool our resources (that would be our vast knowledge of where, how and when to find such awesomeness) and share it with the world!
We hope that you enjoy our blog as we give you great advice on where to go for the best of the best in LA, NYC and lands of far!
To get things started I am going to make a recommendation for those of you who are in or around LA. If you happen to be in the Downtown area be sure to take a walk through the Farmer's Market near City Hall (1st Street and Spring). There you will find a bounty of free fruit and veggie samples along with samples of nuts, candy apples, flan, kettle corn and best of all, there is a stand that sells giant baked yams that will fill your belly for a whole day at the low cost of $4.75...who can resist a giant hot yam with butter and cinnamon and sugar sprinkled on top??? NOT ME!
Jeanne, Alice, Dana (that's me) and Elizabeth...the collective J.A.D.E girls, wish you happy mooching! We hope that you follow our blog to get the best advice on all thats out there to be advised on!
xoxoxoxo
Enjoy!
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