Favorite Things: Slip N Slide!

I've got some great news: Summer isn't even halfway over! So why not get a cheap and cheerful addition to your backyard fun? For less than $15, you can get a Slip N Slide. Great for kids of any age, from 2 to 42. I know you won't be able to resist taking your turn. Or two. Or three. There are more souped up versions of this classic toy but I think the price is right for the original Wham-O product. Check your local drugstore; I've seen them on sale for 15 - 25% off lately. So grab a beach chair, a Diet Coke, and some friends and live it up in your own backyard.

Deal of the Day: Stride Rite 50% Off Sale

Starting tomorrow, every second pair of shoes at Stride Rite is 50% off. Plus, the sale runs all the way until August 31st. If you need some school shoes or even holiday styles for your little ones, this could be the sale for you! As always, only shop the sale if you need something and don't be afraid to get the shoes with a little wiggle room. Stride Rite shoes are well made and fit fine even up to one size larger than your kiddo's current size. I love the Sperry Top Siders and Super Ball sneakers for my son and they have a great array of Robeez which make great gifts.

Deal of the Day: Free Pastry at Starbucks

On Tuesday, July 21st, you can get a free pastry at Starbucks until 10:30 am with the purchase of any beverage. Click on this link to print the coupon. One new menu item available for sampling is the Gluten Free Orange Valencia Cake. I think that sounds like a perfect pairing for a Tall Cappuccino.

Cheap and Cheerful wants to know: Are you going? What's your favorite treat from Starbucks?

Cheap and Cheerful Cities: San Diego

What does your favorite half day outing look like? My perfect day involves shopping, mexican food and ice cream -- the ultimate trifecta! There is a cool spot in San Diego where I can indulge in all three of my favorite things without ever moving my car. Nestled in South Park on Juniper Street, you can find The Grove, a knitting shop that also has fun and funky gifts. Pick up a ball of yarn or browse a book! Then you can meander to Mexican food heaven at El Camino. Just about anything on the menu is amazing but if you are looking for something a little different, give the sweet potato flautas a try. Top off your outing with a sweet treat at The Daily Scoop, the retro-feel ice cream shop pictured above. I don't know about you, but it almost doesn't get any better than this.

Favorite Things: Shabby Apple Dresses

Maybe you've noticed that I really like colorful and unique dresses for little girls? Well, wait until you see the Shabby Baby line from ShabbyApple.com. The details are so precious and the styles look so comfortable too! All of the dresses for girls are under $40. Shabby Apple is a small company that has big plans. Be sure to check back for their Fall line in August.

Money Mantra #5: Balk at Bad Bulk

Some people say, "If one is good, two is better." But is this always true? After all, do you really need 40 rolls of paper towels in your house at one time? If you know you can consistently find paper towels for about $.66 per roll, do you need to spend $40 on paper towels in a single shopping trip? After all, you can return to the same store and get the item for the same low price as needed. For the purposes of minimizing house clutter and freeing up cash for capitalizing on better bargains, I recommend balking at bad bulk. Remember: buy one, get one half off does not save you any dough unless you need both of the items you are purchasing. And spending more just to earn free shipping does not do your wallet any favors.

Cheap and Cheerful wants to know: How do you draw the line between good bulk shopping and useless bulk "deals"?

Favorite Things: Mini Boden Tees

Who says the British are stuffy? Mini Boden, designed and made in the UK, will help change your mind about the British even if their tasty fish and chips can't win you over. With soft fabrics, unique designs, and cheery graphics, the tees in their latest catalog are almost irresitable. Until August 15th, you can get 11% off plus free shipping. While you are browsing for your little monkey, check out the adorable dresses for women too! Cheers!