A burning question...

So, inquiring minds want to know...

What did your sweetie get you for Christmas? And, what did you get him/her?

Sometimes finding that perfect gift is a difficult task, so I wanted to find out if you succeeded this year! Was he surprised? Did she tear up?

My "funny" gift from my guy: A SNUGGIE! Hehe! 

TV Show DVDs for Incredible Prices on Amazon!

Heads up to those of you still in the mood for a little online shopping:

The team at MoJo Savings posted about Amazon's incredible TV show dvd deals! If you love shows like The Office, 30 Rock, House, etc. you should really check out the great prices! I may or may not have ordered a set for a friend. :-) You can find deals here for sets around $15 that are worth $60! 

I have no idea how long these prices will last, but they were still available at 11pm tonight. 

BOGO Fandango Movie Tickets!

CODE HAS EXPIRED
This probably won't last long...but I just had to share this awesome deal!


Coupon Pro posted a Buy One Get One Free deal for movie tickets at Fandango! Here are the details:
1.Go to this web page.
2.Enter your zip code


3.Select "Browse Moves" from the top and select your movie


4.Click on "Get Tickets" for your movie


5.Select "View All Theaters" above your zip code


6.Select your Movie Time


7.Add 2 tickets to cart


8.Enter code SAMSUNGTAB in promo code box


9.Complete checkout process


10.Hooray!
 
Expires 12/26/10. Please let me know if the code stops working.

Frugal Christmas Date Ideas

There are only a few days left until Christmas! Who's excited?! {Me! Me! Me!}

Maybe you're looking for some ideas for some last minute frugal Christmas dates?

Here are a few things you and your sig. other could do together to celebrate the holiday season:

-Bundle up and take a walk around the neighborhood looking at Christmas lights! If it's too cold for that, hop in the car and visit your favorite decorated areas. Make sure to take some warm cider or hot chocolate. If you're in the car, crank the Christmas radio station up loud {or find the Pandora Christmas station on your smart phone}!

-Make ornaments together. Yeah, not all guys are crafty or want to sprinkle glitter on ornament balls, but if you're feeling a little adventurous, grab some plain ornaments and decorate away!

-Decorate a gingerbread house together. You can buy the kits at the grocery store. Just don't eat all the shingles off the roof before you're finished decorating!

-Bake gingerbread or sugar cookies and decorate them together! Or, if you're in the traditional mood...learn to bake a fruitcake or a rum cake.

-Watch classic Christmas movies together. Pop some popcorn and drink a cup of eggnog while watching movies like "It's a Wonderful Life," "How the Grinch Stole Christmas," "Miracle on 34th Street," "Rudolph," and of course "Elf."

-Wrap your presents together. Not everyone enjoys the wrapping process of being Santa, so "suffer" together in sharing with the task. {This is not for everyone. Some of Santa's elves would prefer to work alone.}

-Start a Christmas tradition--something that fits you and your sweetie's couple personality. Be creative and have fun!

Do you have any additional Christmas date ideas? I'd love to hear them!

MOBILE: $17 for $35 2-hour Painting Class {Buy TODAY only}

MOBILE Fans: Here's another great date idea for you!

Spend a fun evening with friends or your sweetie at Paint Party Studios in West Mobile! Today's Living Social deal is a Two-Hour BYOB Painting Class for $17 (a $35 value)!

Buy this deal TODAY (before time runs out!) here.

Surprise Date...YOGA?!

Saturday, December 18, 2010 will go down in history as the day I went on the most unique date of my life.

:-)

Yep. This girl may have met her match when it comes to a guy who plans fun frugal dates! 

This morning, HE took me on a surprise date...and boy, was I shocked! HE told me we would be somewhere inside and to wear athletic clothing. HE had heard me saying that I wanted to work out more often, so I thought maybe we were going to jog somewhere or maybe do something a little more adventurous like rock climbing.  I never would have guessed we were going to take a yoga class together! {I'm giggling now thinking about our 75 minute long class!}

I'm not known for my athleticism or flexibility, so I was really nervous about attending the class, especially with HIM. I could literally picture myself falling over in the middle of a balancing position!

We actually had a lot of fun (and quiet laughs)! The view from our downtown "classroom" was spectacular. Our instructor was exceptionally helpful when teaching the class, knowing we were the only beginners in attendance. We tried not to laugh at ourselves too often, especially when attempting those almost impossible moves (like the one where you put your knees inside your elbows and keep your feet off the ground!).

We definitely made some fun memories this morning! I never expected a guy to be as creative with a date as to include a yoga class! That's one confident man!

The class was only about $9 per person. Yoga is definitely not for everyone, but it was fun for us to try.

Now, let's see what other fun frugal dates HE will create! :-)

Happy Dating!

MOBILE: $50 gift certificate to TRUE fine dining for $25 BUY TODAY

MOBILE/BALDWIN County Friends:

Fine dining, FOR LESS!

Living Social Mobile's Daily Deal (which is similar to Groupon) is a $50 gift certificate to TRUE (next to the Wine Loft) for $25. TRUE is one of my favorite fine dining restaurants in Mobile. Delicious entrees, side dishes and desserts! Go here to find out more about the deal. You can only buy the gc today! {I've never purchased a Living Social deal. Please let me know about your experience if you do.}

Also, you can get $25 gift certificates to TRUE  for much less during 80% off sales on restaurant.com. (you probably aren't allowed to mix the two deals.) I'll let you know the next time there is a good online sale!

Dominos Pizza 50% Off Code

Pizza date night: order a pizza... half off!

Dominos Pizza is celebrating their 50th anniversary and offering 50% off an online carryout pizza order. Use code {50offpizza} when ordering online. Read more details on their Facebook page. Expires 12/19/10.

Thanks, MoJoSavings!

Groupon Mobile Deal:$15 for $30 @ the Wine Loft

Mobile and Baldwin County friends: Looking for a great deal on wine and appetizers?

Today's Groupon Deal is $15 for $30 worth of wine and French Cuisine at the Wine Loft in Mobile's Legacy Village shopping center! Details and buy here.

My favorite appetizer at the Wine Loft is the Baked Brie En Croute (with Vanilla Infused Honey, Spiced Pecans & Balsamic Reduction) $13.

If you're the wine and cheese type of couple...this deal is for you!

Free Movie Rental at Blockbuster Stores 12.05.10

You can make Sunday Date Night on the couch: Get a free rental at BLOCKBUSTER stores tomorrow!

Pick out a movie from the middle section of your local Blockbuster tomorrow (Sun., 12/5/10) and rent it for free! Just say the phrase "Blockbuster has new low prices" at the register. This is up to a $2.99 value and is only good for "Top Pick" or "Value" movie rentals.

Read more details here.

Thanks, MoJo Savings!

Groupon MOBILE: 1 Diving Class Lesson for $12

MOBILE & BALDWIN CO. Friends: Today's Groupon Mobile deal may make a fun Christmas gift or date!

For the next couple days, Groupon Mobile is offering an introductory scuba-diving class lesson at Gulf Coast Divers for $12 ($24 value).

Here are some Groupon details about the class:

During the three-hour Introduction to Diving class, students plunge through the water’s shimmering surface to learn the basic techniques of underwater gill work. Classes are held in a 15 ft. 125,000-gallon bathtub and illustrate the risks, myths, and joys of diving in a safe, rabid-dolphin-free environment. If you don’t have your own diving equipment, a friendly staff member will set you up with all the necessary bells, whistles, and tridents to make your experience as streamlined as possible.

Go here to purchase your Groupon!

 

Free Original Glazed Doughnut at Krispy Kreme!

Mmm, this is a sweet deal that I'll be taking advantage of...with or without a date! 

Hey, Krispy Kreme fans, check this out! Sign up for the Friends of Krispy Kreme enewsletter here and receive a coupon for a free original glazed doughnut! Get your honeyboo to sign up, too, and make it a {frugal and sweet}date!

Thanks, Money Saving Mom!

Tips for the Unemployed: My Happy List

To follow up my PART 1 Career Update, I've come up with a list to encouraged any one who may unemployed. 
Please do not lose hope! Unemployment is temporary.

These are some things that helped me remain happy while unemployed:

-Do something you've always wanted to do, but never had the time before.

-Get out of bed every morning...and then make it. Making your bed always makes life seem a little more put together.

-Wear your favorite outfits. Keep yourself looking cute/sharp. You'll feel more confident. Don't let yourself go.

-Make a positive change. Get a cute haircut. Stop a bad habit.

-Stay positive. Laugh. Know that unemployment is temporary.

-Be spontaneous.

-Keep yourself in a routine, if possible.

-Talk with friends and family who will encourage you.

-Organize your closets. Clean out your car. Do those chores you never seemed to have time for before.

-Pick up a new hobby. It doesn't have to be an expensive one. Just something you can

-Dream BIG. Write down your dreams/desires and then figure out how to implement them.

-Write down your goals. Career and life goals.
-Don't beat yourself up. Yes, make sure to spend a significant time searching for jobs and contacting future employers, but don't cry if you don't reach a goal of job searching 35 hours a week (yeah, I tried that and crashed).
-Trust God. No explanation needed.

I hope this lists encourages someone. I know we don't go through events like this without a reason. Being unemployed twice made me stronger, more confident and more grateful. Please email me if you need someone to talk to about unemployment. {piggybankdating @ gmail dot com}

A Huge Update: PART 1

Here it is...THE BIG JOB UPDATE!

I try not to post much about my personal life on this blog, since I would prefer to focus on frugal date deals and tips. But, I thought I should catch everyone up on what's been going on in my life over the past year.

Work Life: Remember this post in Jan. '10 when I told you I had been laid off due to the economy? The last week of December, I found a temp job that turned into a full time job by March thanks to very the caring staff at a non profit organization. I worked there until the end of September, when I was laid off again (once again because of the economy). Instead of getting worried and down on myself like the previous unemployment time, I embraced my time off. 

Although I didn't announce it, I was unemployed for a month and a half (Oct. '10) before deciding to take one of the jobs I was offered. During that month of unemployment----I dreamed. And, I dreamed big! I spent hours brain-storming, thinking about what I wanted in life and implementing some of those desires. I checked off all the things on my never-ending "to-do" list. I took spontaneous shopping trips (out-of-town). I focused on family and friends. I started an Etsy shop with my mom selling vintage items. I ate LOTS of ice cream. And, I worked out all the time...losing almost 10 pounds. Best of all, I continued to learn to be alone all day (I'm an extravert!) and remain happy (more on that in PART 2).

Then I got bored. I had done most of the things I wanted to do. I desired purpose, a more stable routine, a job. And, that's when doors opened. Second interviews happened. Phone calls were answered. I had multiple options.

God is faithful. 

I'm now working full time in marketing again! My focus is on web marketing and content, and I'm learning so much at once. It's a challenge I'm not taking lightly.

Thank you for being faithful readers. Thank you for being interested in the deals and tips I post for you! I hope you are enjoying saving money and enjoying many frugal dates! Thanks for trusting a single girl writing a dating blog...more on that in PART 2!

Have a wonderful Saturday!

40% Off TODAY at GAP!

Looking for a new date outfit? 

Get 40% ALL merchandise at Gap's "Flash Sale" today (Sat., 11/20/10)! Just mention FLASH40 at the register. 

Here's the details found on the Flash Sale event page on Facebook:

All existing Gap, BR or Old Navy cardmembers will receive 45% off when they use their Gap, BR or Old Navy Credit Card. To save 40% just mention FLASH40 at the register. Mention FLASH45 if you have a Gap, Banana Republic or Old Navy Credit Card. Offer valid at Gap Stores in the U.S. and Canada Only. Not valid at Outlet/Factory stores or gap.com. No adjustments on previous purchases. Not valid for cash or cash equivalent. Gap, Banana Republic or Old Navy Credit Card must be used to receive 45% off. Cannot be combined with any all other promotions or MPC discounts.

Thanks, MoJo Savings! 

Starbucks BOGO Holiday Drinks

Not gonna lie...I'm really excited about this deal!

Starbucks is offering you and a friend an afternoon treat! Buy one holiday drink and get the other free! This offer is available afternoons (2pm-5pm) tomorrow (11/18/10) through Sunday (11/21).

Visit the Starbucks website for more information and a list of holiday drinks.

Get an afternoon "pick-me-up" for you and a date!

 

Free Appetizer at Ruby Tuesday with Purchase

Dining out? Get a free appetizer with that entree!

"Like" Ruby Tuesday on Facebook for a coupon for a free appetizer with any entree! 

Thanks, Southern Savers!

Today's Groupon Deal: Video Footage Preservation

Live in Mobile and looking for some great Christmas gift ideas?

Transfer old VHS/Camcorder footage to DVD for a great price! Today's Groupon Deal is $9 for 120 minutes of footage transferred to DVD at Lighthouse Productions! Lafe at LP is a friend of mine, and I know he would do a fabulous job preserving your memories!

Use your wedding video (or your parents) and have LP transfer it to DVD for a special Christmas gift for your spouse or family. Or, get those dusty childhood videos preserved for a special Christmas gift for your mom. You know...the video of you riding your bike for the first time? That would be the perfect gift.

Go here to buy this great Groupon deal! Hurry, this deal expires today!

Bath & Body Works: $10 off $30 coupon

If you're heading to buy early Christmas gifts, make sure to grab this coupon! It may make some of your gifts a little more affordable!

Get $10 off your total purchase of $30 at Bath & Body Works with this coupon (print and online)! Expires 11/21/10. 

Thanks, Couponing to Disney!

MAJOR Photo Deal! 365 free prints from Snapfish

This is the MONSTER photo deal! Get ready to upload some pictures, folks! Like, a year's worth!

Snapfish is offering their best deal yet! 365 FREE 4x6 prints with any $10 purchase! Here are all the details from Snapfish:

With this offer you can get up to 365 FREE 4" x 6" mail-order prints with any $10 purchase. That's like a whole year of smiles for FREE! So get a head start on your holiday shopping and get plenty of prints to share with family come Thanksgiving.

To get your FREE prints, place 365 4" x 6" prints in your cart with a $10 purchase, and usecoupon code 2010MY365 at checkout before 11:59PM PST on November 20.

	Don't have 365 photos to print? Don't worry, you can still receive free prints with your $10 purchase – just choose 100 or 50 FREE 4" x 6" prints, whatever number suits you best! Use the corresponding coupon code below to redeem this amazing deal. For 100 FREE prints, use coupon 2010MY100 at checkout before 11:59PM PST on November 20. For 50 FREE prints, use coupon 2010MY50 at checkout before 11:59PM PST on November 20. Get started uploading your photos here! Sign in or create a new account.

Free Tacos at Jack In The Box 11/16

Here's a super "cheap" meal deal!

Get two free tacos from Jack In The Box on Tuesday, 11/16/10 after 2PM! No purchase necessary. 

Thanks, The Frugal Girls!

Restaurant.com 80% off sale!

Dine out on a dime!

Restaurant.com is having another 80% off sale! It's time to stock up on certificates to your favorite local restaurants! Search for restaurants here. Use the code GIVE at checkout for major savings! 

Expires 11/15/10.

Veteran's Day Freebies for Military!

Veteran's Day is this Thursday, Nov. 11! 

If you are active military or a veteran, Thursday is your day! Money Saving Mom  and The Frugal Girls have compiled lists of VDay FREEBIES just for you! The lists include free/cheap food and entertainment deals! 

Check out the list here and here!

Corner Bakery Cafe: Free Soup

It's the perfect weather for some FREE warm soup and a handsome date!

Get a free cup of homemade soup with this coupon from Corner Bakery Cafe when you purchase a sandwich or salad. Expires 11/30/10.

Thanks, MoJo Savings!

Express Clothing Coupon!

Need a new date outfit?

Head to Express with this coupon for $15 off $30 or $30 off $75! Or use the code 7799 at checkout online. Expires 11/7/10. Clearance items are excluded.

Thanks, MoJo Savings!

T.G.I. Friday's BOGO salad or sandwich coupon

Here's a great dining out deal for you and your sweetie!

Use this T.G.I. Friday's printable coupon for a buy one get one free salad or sandwich deal! Expires 11/7/10. Not valid on 3 course menu, burgers, and lunch menu.

Thanks, MoJo Savings!

Just a little update!

Hello, friends! Just wanted to write a quick post to let you know I haven't forgotten you! I've been extra busy lately with a few side projects. One is a brand new Etsy shop my mom and I started! We're selling some vintage items we have acquired. We're just getting it started, and I didn't realize how much work would be involved to get it going! 

I've also been busy doing some of this: 

I will continue to search for and post relevant frugal date ideas and deals! Thanks for your support and for reading this blog! I would love to hear from you. Do you have any success stories using Piggy Bank Dating tips? Please share! 

Snapfish: 100 prints for free!

Do you have a lot of photos that need to be printed?

Snapfish.com is offering a special for prints! Purchase two 8x10 sized prints and get 100 4x6 prints for free! Use the code {SCARYPRINTS} at checkout. Expires 10/2/10. Get started here.

Use your prints for gifts (framed or in a scrapbook)!

Thanks, Amanda!