Frugal Friday

The week ahead is expected to be fabulous, but not frugal, with a trip to Hawaii. I focused on cleaning out the fridge as much as possible before I left. M tends to not be on top of creative menus, and using up leftovers.  

Saving on things we buy

• Used a grocery store reward to pick up some Memorial Day weekend barbecue items. 
• I've tried to build in a few fun treats over the past week or so, as the boys are studying hard for finals. I took them to boba on Monday, and used a $5 reward for one of the drinks. 

Earning money

• Nothing on this front, but I did get to drive to & from the district office (school) to turn in Sam's work permit form, to allow him to work this summer. ;-) 

Avoiding spending

• I adjusted our plans in Hawaii from a formal photo shoot, to just doing the free photo that comes with our hotel package. I figure we can have someone else take extra photos as needed. We will get one great picture, and my mom can have that as part of her gift. 
• M had a conflict & couldn't drop me off at the airport today, but I was able to use Uber credits
• Packed a lunch & snack for the flight, and brought my own water flask to fill at the airport
• I really wanted a premium economy seat, but I was on the upgrade waiting list (I have status, thanks to some pre-COVID work travel). Better than premium, I got upgraded to first class for free! I'm thrilled. I think I'll treat myself to a free drink before we arrive, and the flight is long enough that the extra leg room will be very appreciated.
• Arranged carpools for multiple kid activities, saving everyone time & money. 

Eating what we have 

• We finished off the last of a large bag of gyozos. I don't know how M prepares them, but they are amazing every time. He uses a lot of seasoning, and pan fries them. They are an easy Friday dinner for us, served with a protein option. We bought this particular bag at Costco, on sale for $7 or so. We've made 6 or so dinners (x3 diners) out of them, so they've been a great value. 
• Used up the oranges from our neighbor's tree, and made a double batch of orange muffins (we skip the glaze). This recipe also used up the remainder of an open tub of yogurt (in place of the sour cream). 
• I used the remainder of the orange juice in a fruit smoothie. The giant bowl is now off of my counter. Hurrah!
• I made Rice Krispie treats, to use up most of an open bag of cereal.  
• I had a salad with the dregs of a bag of lettuce, plus a leftover piece of chicken from one of the boys. That was lunch one day, which worked fine. 
• Had leftover roasted potatoes (dinner out last weekend) 2x with eggs, to make a breakfast burrito. Delicious & it felt good not to toss them. 
• Finished off a bag of edamame, from the freezer. 
• Used two pieces of chicken that Nick had as a dinner leftover, and turned them into sandwich wraps. The first one was Mexican themed, with salsa. With the second one, I added sliced tomato & a bit of mayo. Both were great, and no waste with the chicken. 

For others

• Hosted a call for a volunteer organization
• Donated some outgrown, but still fantastic condition teen Nike shoes on Buy Nothing. 
• Was selected for an advisory council at a local public university. Details to come, but it sounds exciting!

That's it from my side - what about you? Any wins to share?