Frugal Living Archives - Frugal Coupon Living

Camping Hacks, Tips and Tricks

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

April 1, 2019 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Frugal Living, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media, Summer, Travel

Camping Hacks, Tips and Tricks on Frugal Coupon Living. Creative camping ideas to simplify your memorable family outdoor trip.

Camping Hacks, Tips and Tricks

Camping? Going to the great outdoors. Whether you are an expert camper or a novice, like me, anyone can use a little camping hacks, tips and tricks. Learn the best way to store eggs, see how to keep that toilet paper dry, or see how much light expands when you create a lantern out of a gallon jug (no cutting required!) You might love these tips so much you are taking some of them to the home, beach or your next picnic. Happy Camping!

Create your own Camping Survival Kit from The Benson Street. We see some great goods like duct tape, bandages, hand sanitizer and more!

Make your own Camping Toilet with this Tutorial from A Thrifty Mom. To me, this trick is genius. Bring a lot of plastic grocery bags – double bag if they have holes!

Organize your Kitchen with this Rolled Up Kitchen Guide from Today’s Creative Life. It looks like your entire ktichen neds are there!

Camping Packing List and Meal Planner Printables on Frugal Coupon Living. Personalize to your own family.

Make your own Campfire Bombs from Inspired by Family Mag. The will come in handy when you are ready to start the fire!

Also try this Pinecone Campfire Starter Recipe from Today’s Creative Life. This idea appears a little bit more nature friendly.

Store Toilet Paper in a Coffee Can from Life Hacker. Genius!

Stay Organized with a Mesh Hanging Organizer from Mama Momtourage. Nothiong worse than stuff all over the floor. This is a great way to be organized.

DIY Outdoor Candle Stakes from a Subtle Revelry. This is great for a little glow.

Turn a Water Jug into a Lantern Source. I have seen this used before – so genius. It makes an immediate lantern.

How creative is this Hand Washing Station from Do It and How? Well there you go – clean hands for all!

Instead of Ice, use Frozen Water Jugs – they make cold water later! Idea from Camping Blogger. That is smart, you have a nice gold drink later.

Store your snacks in these DIY Snack Containers from Stockpiling Moms. Start saving the old coffee creamers.

Stay clean with this DIY Soap Pouch from Whimsy Love. Rub a dub dub, get clean outta the tub!

Looking for easy storage, how about this DIY Plastic Bag Keeper from Curbly. This goes great with the camping toilet.

Avoid the Bulky Duct Tape Roll and Wrap the tape around objects for easy access. Idea from Happy Money Saver. This idea is genius!

Create a game for the kids with this Camping Scavenger Hunt from Creative Homemakers.

Bring a Welcome Mat to keep Dirt Out of the Tent from My Clever Nest. This will keep the mess out of the tent – I hate sand all over my floor – dirt is only for the outdoors!

Place Matches in a Mason Jar and place sandpaper on top for a strike from Like to Love. Looks like this will last awhile.

A Yoga Mat makes a Great Cushion for your sleeping bag from The 3 Day. Make sure it is thick!

Keep Scrambled Eggs in an Old Coffee Creamer Container from Lifehacker. This is truly genius. Breakfast anyone?

If going near the water, place a Cork on Your Keys so they float from Green Moxie. (this is also in our Beach Tips & Tricks!)

Repurpose an old Ketchup Bottle for Pancake Mix from Real Simple. Save your old ketchup bottles!

Turn your Storage Bin into a Toddler Tub from Living on Latte. I have seen this used at the beach too. At a public beach, fill up before going down to the sand. Play all day and when you get back, your tub of water will be nice and warm for a bath before going home!

Make Individual Shower Lanyards from The Pop Up Princess. Everyone can easily identify their bath supplies! I could see this as a fun gift if a large group of friends are camping together. The lanyard all keeps the loofah out of the dirt and off the ground.

Camping? Let’s share with you some breakfast, lunch, dinner and dessert ideas for your trip. You might enjoy these Campfire Cinnamon Rolls Baked in Oranges. Pin to Pinterest.

Also check out these Camping Hot Dogs Recipe for the Campfire. Pin to Pinterest.

We think these Fritos Bagged Walking Tacos are delicious. Pin to Pinterest.

For dessert, enjoy these S’mores Campfire Cones. Pin to Pinterest.

Also enjoy these Camping Recipes Your Family Will Love. Pin to Pinterest.

We love these Foil Packet Meals for the Grill, Oven or Campfire. Pin to Pinterest.

Original publication April 16, 2017.

WHAT’S TRENDING: Check out our Pinterest Content including Summer Ideas – Hacks, Recipes, Crafts and More on Frugal Coupon Living.

Also try Amazon Prime which includes FREE 2-Day Shipping, FREE Kindle Books, and FREE Video Streaming!

Find this and updated daily deals, recipes, crafts, and seasonal content on Frugal Coupon Living. Receive this and other in your inbox.

Dollar Store Easter Decor

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

March 10, 2019 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, Easter, Facebook, Frugal Living, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media, Spring Leave a Comment

Turn your seasonal Dollar Tree purchases into festive home decor with these Dollar Store Easter Decor and crafting ideas.

Dollar Store Easter Decor

Changing your decor for each season doesn’t have to cost a million bucks! To help your frugal and creative juices, we uncovered some of the best Dollar Store Easter Decor. Candy mason jars, plastic egg wreaths, and festive topiaries all made for just a few bucks. Inexpensive supplies turned into beautiful Easter decor.

Don’t forget! Also check out our Dollar Store Crafts and Hacks – many ideas can be used for Spring and Easter decorating.

These glitter Easter cups are a cute way to display your dyed Easter eggs. | Handmade Charlotte

A foam wreath form plus eggs equals one cute Dollar Store Easter Decor. | Crazy Little Projects (Also see our Spring Easter Wreaths.)

You will never guess what these carrots were made out of!? You will want to make this Dollar Store Easter Craft, only $1! | Little House of Four (and for another cute idea, see how she turned them white too!)

Look how these Easter garden stakes became the best topiary accents with this upcycled Dollar Tree Easter craft. | Average Inspired

These Glow in the Dark Easter eggs require only eggs and battery-operated tea lights! | Frugal Coupon Living

Did you know that The Dollar Tree sells succulents? Make this adorable Spring Picture frame! Also seen in our Dollar Store Crafts and Hacks. | The Homespun Hydrangea

GENIUS! Craft a Dollar Store wire cloche using a wire waste basket! Place over a nest. | The Gathering Place

Laurie does an amazing job with everything she touches including these Dollar Tree Easter mason jars. | Passionate Penny Pincher

We would never believe this tulip Easter wreath was made from materials at the Dollar Store until we saw similar items in our Spring Easter Wreath. Adorable with little cost. | The DIY Village

A small bunny with a big presence. Mod Podge and book pages make this adorable Dollar Tree Easter bunny. | Little Birdie Secrets

Three $1 vases make these pretty green ombre vases for spring. | Living Well Spending Less

Another cute idea from Laurie, this Easter floral vase is made from Easter Bunny Peeps and Jelly Beans – yum! | Passionate Penny Pincher

Wrap twine around an Easter egg for this Dollar Store spring craft. | Frugal Coupon Living

Stephanie made this adorable Dollar Store Craft – DIY Salt and Pepper Shakers turned into mini flower vases – don’t they look like something perfect for a farmhouse style kitchen! Also seen in our Dollar Store Crafts and Hacks. | I Heart Organizing

We made these wash cloth bunnies in my classroom a few years ago (who am I kidding, over 10 years ago) and they were a hit! | That What Che Said

Using cellophane bags and tissue paper, create these carrots for a kitchen basket. You can even gift to teachers the Friday before Easter hits! | Smart School House

Use a mason jars to make these chocolate bunnies in a jar. Another cute way to decorate and then gift! | Simple Made Pretty

Turn your seasonal @DollarTree purchases into festive home decor with these Dollar Store Easter Decor ideas. #FrugalCouponLiving #DollarTree #Easter

This festive centerpiece is made with a watering can and Dollar Tree Easter supplies. Great way for the kids to get involved. | Ribbons and Glue

This Easter egg cone tree is fun and very easy to do! You will need a floral foam cone. | Sweet Floweret

Thumb tacks and eggs – you got me there! I never would have thought about that turning out so cute! | The Kim Six Fix

Make this DIY spring cupcake stand to display cupcakes or Easter decor. | Lindsay Ann Bakes

These Easter wands would be cute displayed in a glass vase! | So Easy Being Green

Also check out our Dollar Store Crafts and Hacks – many ideas can be used for Spring and Easter decorating. Pin to Pinterest.

Take a look at this Farmhouse Easter Decor. Pin to Pinterest.

There is a Dollar Store Spring Easter Wreaths in this post. Pin to Pinterest.

Best Will You Go to Prom with Me? Promposals Ideas

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

February 10, 2019 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Facebook, Frugal Living, Instagram, Kids, Pinterest, Social Media 1 Comment

The best Will You Go to Prom with Me? Promposals Ideas. Memorable high school prom proposals that involve everything from balloons, rubber duckies to really adorable puns!

Best Will You Go to Prom with Me? Promposals Ideas

Where has time gone? It feels like just yesterday I was worrying about who was going to take me to prom and how they were doing to do it. So much pressure as a teenager to fit in, do the right thing, and create memories with your friends! We hope to eliminate some of the prom pressure with these Promposal Ideas.

What is a Promposal?

What is a Promposal? Promposals are marriage proposals for high schoolers (okay not quite as extreme as marriage, but similar in prep!) They are an adorable way they ask one another to prom, homecoming, or Sadie Hawkins dances. We collected the best Will You Go to Prom with Me? Promposals Ideas. Memorable high school prom proposals that involve everything from balloons, rubber duckies, to flowers, to really adorable puns! Enjoy!

Save these Also save these Memorable Prom Tips and Ideas, as well! Going off to college? Don’t forget our Dorm Room Hacks!

Would you be a lucky duck to have someone special as your date to prom? I would be one lucky ducky if you’d be my date to prom! Be sure to get plastic ducks for this promposal idea.| Source

Who doesn’t love flowers? This is a cute promo proposal! Plus it leaves you with something left to dry (and keep) after the proposal! You can find a deal on red roses here. | Only Women Stuff

Take me out to the ball game – using Red SOLO Cups, spell PROM and add a question mark if you have extra cups. In addition, let your lady choose yes or no on the baseballs provided! It looks like he used just under 100 cups for this idea (we counted 97 cups.) You can grab a pack of 100 SOLO cups here. | Source

Another cute idea, have you seen the movie Up? How about incorporating the theme and asking your date, “Are you UP for Prom?” with this Prom Idea Proposal. To keep the promposal theme, you could grab this UP Scrapbook for your prom adventure. | Source

Have a best friend? Why ask a mister, when you can ask a sister? This is perfect proposal for your BFF. In keeping with the theme, these gold/diamond BFF necklaces would be cute with a fancy dress. | Source

We have more adorable promposals ideas. Will you goat to Pr-AAA-am with me? If you can’t get a real goat, try this stuffed goat. She can keep it as a stuffed animal. | Source

This is idea is great for a swimmer or lifeguard and is is totally giving us Sandlot Movie Vibes – “I’d pretend to drown to go to prom with you!” | Source

Pick your prom date with this guitar pick proposal. You can pick up a personalized pick for prom, homecoming, the ball or whatever you choose!

Get those lungs ready, it is going to take a lot of breath to blow up all these balloons – Prom Balloon Proposal. This pack of 100 12-inch balloons is very affordable! | Source

Will you go to prom with me cupcake promo proposal. This clear carrier will hold 12 cupcakes. | Source

Since we are such a perfect match, will you be my prom date? Matchbox Proposal. | Source

Take a chance and go to to prom with me. Make sure you have a Monopoly Board for this promposal. You could also make a chance card out of an orange poster board, and say Take a chance, go to prom with me!| Source

Don’t let me go solo to prom! Grab your Red Solo Cups for this cute Red SOLO cup promposal. | Only Women Stuff

I’d love to go to the dance with you when pigs fly! Pick up pink balloons and pink curling ribbon for this pig promposal. | Source

Spell it out with candles for this Prom Candle Promposal. You can get a pack of 120 tealights here. | Source

The best Will You Go to Prom with Me? Promposal Ideas. Memorable high school proposals that involve everything from balloons, to LEGOs, to really adorable puns! #FrugalCouponLiving #Prom #Promposal

Change your name in her phone, then give her a call! Prom? I hope she answers and says yes! | Source

LEGO to prom? Grab a LEGO plate and this 500 piece of building bricks will be helpful! | Source

I know this is cheesy but prom? Find pizza coupons here. | Source

This punny promposal idea is so cute – I couldn’t bear going to prom without you! As a result she has an adorable lovie for a keepsake! | Source

Donuts are the bomb, do me a favor and come to prom! To fit your theme, after prom, give her this Thanks a Latte (for a wonderful night) printable card!| Source

Also save these Memorable Prom Tips and Ideas. Pin to Pinterest.

Take a look at these inspiring teen bedroom ideas! Pin to Pinterest on your bedroom and home boards.

Also check these out! Getting ready for college? These Dorm Room Hacks, Tips and Ideas will give you some great inspiration. Pin to Pinterest on your College and Dorm Boards.

13 Dollar Tree April Fools Pranks

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

February 2, 2019 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: April Fools Day, Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Frugal Living, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media, Spring 1 Comment

Thirteen clean and fun Dollar Tree April Fools pranks from as low as $20 – Easy April Fools Day prank ideas for kids from the Dollar Store.

Dollar Tree April Fools Pranks

Every April 1, April Fools’ Day is an annual celebration full of practical jokes. These jokes can have a wide range of silliness form hoaxes to playful amusement. We like to focus on the later, making sure all parties of the prank find it fun and laughable. In an effort to prepare for April Fools’ Day this year, my girls and I went up and down the aisles of the Dollar Store to find some of the most creative (and clean) Dollar Tree April Fools Pranks for Kids. This pranks can be done on kids or the kids can become involved pranking parents or even other siblings.

Also check out our April Fools Ideas for the Kitchen, Home and Office. Have fun, be kind!

Dollar Tree April Fools Prank 1: Sponge Cakes

Only two items are needed for this April Fool’s Day Prank for the kids. We tricked my husband as his birthday had just occurred when we made our sponge cake. At the Dollar Tree pick up a sponge and we found a package of Funfetti Pillsbury Icing with sprinkles. The trickiest part was not having the sponge show through. I would suggest the lightest sponge you can find (ours was dark blue.) I also suggest icing the cube, freezing it for about five minutes, icing it again, freezing again. My daughter was very patient with it, it was about four times she took it in and out of the freezer until it looked like a mini cake. Supplies include a sponge, icing, sprinkles, scissors and a butter knife.

Price: $2

Dollar Tree April Fools Prank 2: Plastic Wrap Shampoo

This is good for a container of bath wash, shampoo or conditioner. Take some plastic wrap and seal under the cap. When your family member tries to squeeze the liquid out of the bottle, it will not come out. This might be an April Fools prank you already have on hand and don’t have to purchase! Supplies include plastic wrap, and shampoo/conditioner/body wash.

Price: $2 – $3

Dollar Tree April Fools Prank 3: Kraft Mac and Cheese Juice

For this kids April Fool’s Day Prank you will need powdered Kraft Macaroni and Cheese. My frugal self pulled out the pasta and made it for the kids later in the week – who doesn’t love pasta with butter? It was easy to make our April Fool’s Day juice. I was amazed how real this looked. When I poured the powder in our pitcher, I was sure that it wasn’t going to fool anyone but it looked just like freshly squeezed orange juice with pulp. You can sift out some of the top if you feel it looks like too much pulp. Gross… but so much fun! Supplies include powdered mac and cheese, water, and a pitcher.

Price: $1

Dollar Tree April Fools Prank 4: Pop Corn

We picked up a popcorn container and a can of corn for this April Fools Day fun! After you ask the kids if they want popcorn, pour a can of corn in the cup and see their reaction! Silly but fun. Supplies include a popcorn container, a can opener and canned corn.

Price: $2

Dollar Tree April Fools Prank 5: Brown Es Brownies

Construction paper, a pan and Reynolds Aluminum Foil are all that is needed for this Brown-Es April Fool’s Day brownie prank! I took brown construction paper and layered it on top of each other. I then drew an E on the top piece of paper with a pencil. I quickly cut out six Es in one cut. On the top of the pan, my girls wrote a note to their dad – “Brownies, Love Lucy and Bella.” He fell for it after dinner! Laughs from all of us! Supplies include brown construction paper, scissors, a baking tray, aluminum foil and a pencil.

Price: $1 – $3

Dollar Tree April Fools Prank 6: JELL-O Punch

Full disclosure. Our Dollar Tree did not have powdered JELL-O so we had to grab four of the pre-made individual packs. Four filled up this entire mason jar cup To fill the cup, we melted on the stove-top until it was runny (no chunks). We pour our melted JELL-O in a mug, added a draw and put it in the fridge. It solidified just fine. After the pranks pilled up, my husband did not fall for this one but he also is not the first to grab a mug of juice out of the refrigerator. This is a better prank saved for the kids! Supplies include JELL-O (plus ingredients), a mug, and a straw.

Price: $1 – $3

Dollar Tree April Fools Prank 7: Frozen Cereal

There are a few option to this cereal prank. You can freeze a layer of ice in a bowl or you can freeze the milk, spoon and cereal in the bowl. We added a layer of water to the bowl about 2/3 up. We then frozen the layer of water. When I served the cereal and milk, just a litter was on the top layer so when you went to dig your spoon in the bowl, you hit a solid surface! Supplies include a cereal bowl, spoon, milk, cereal and water. You might have everything you need for this April Fool’s Day breakfast prank making this as low as $0!

Price: $1 – $4

Dollar Tree April Fools Prank 8: Thin Mint OREOs

The kids loved making these Thin Mint OREOs and I have to admit, they smelled so good! The prank level of how hard it was, was low, but you have to make sure you keep it clean. Otherwise it clearly is not an OREO. I also think it would work better with one of those peel back OREO containers. Using a small bag, we had to open the bag and it doesn’t make it too appealing to start eating OREOs from an already open bag. If it was the peel back container, it would be easy to lay them in the cupboard until someone went in the pantry and served themselves. Supplies include cookies, toothpaste and a butter knife.

Price: $2

Dollar Tree April Fools Prank 9: Rock Filled Shoes

So don’t do this prank when you are rushing out the door. No fun having a child clean up rocks and getting their shoes on ten minutes before school starts. Supplies include shoes with rocks, Pony Beads, marbles, toilet paper, or whatever!

Price: $1

Dollar Tree April Fools Prank 10: Caramel Ice Cream Parfait

I love this Dollar Tree prank because you can make a practical joke serving ice cream with caramel sauce but it isn’t something that you have to toss after the prank is done. In fact, my kids were thrilled to be eating the mashed potatoes with gravy! It was just as much of a treat. All you need for supplies are instant mash (the ingredients like butter and water) and gravy sauce. We picked up the spoon and glass at The Dollar Tree but they were not needed because you can use your own utensils and parfait glass.

Price: $2 – $4

Dollar Tree April Fools Prank 11: Spider Escape

This prank is playful and easy. Grab a paper cup and put on this caution note “Warning… huge, aggressive spider under cup. Do not lift!” Then tear the cup as if this aggressive spider escaped. Fun not only for the home but maybe for a common room in an office. If not for someone to fall for, at least for someone to get a small chuckle. Supplies include a cup, marker, and Post-it note.

Price: $1 – $3

Dollar Tree April Fools Prank 12: Remote Control Trick

Dad is sure to fall for this one, especially when the big game is on. Cover the remote control sensor with Scotch Tape. Be sure to draw a black circle where the sensor is completely blocking the transmission. How many times do you think he will change the batteries? Supplies include tape, a permanent marker and of course, a remote control.

Price: $2

Dollar Tree April Fools Prank 13: Bar Soap Trick

For this soap prank, you cover bar soap in clear nail polish. When you go to wash your hands, the soap will not create suds causing the hand washer to keep trying to later up the bar. This worked in our home! Supplies include bar soap and clear nail polish.

Price: $2

Thirteen clean and fun @DollarTree April Fools pranks from as low as $20 - Easy April Fools Day prank ideas for kids from the Dollar Store. #FrugalCouponLiving #AprilFoolsDay #DollarTree

Take a look at this funny list of April Fool’s Day Pranks for the Office, Home and Kitchen. Pin to Pinterest.

We have more! Take a look at all of these Free April Fools’ Day Printables. Pin to Pinterest. Check out the deals on Meijer Ad.

Nanny Appreciation Week and Babysitter Gift Ideas

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

October 5, 2018 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Baby, Facebook, Frugal Living, Instagram, Kids, Pinterest, Social Media Leave a Comment

Nanny appreciation week is the last week of September. Take a look at these creative ways to recognize your nannie as well as babysitter gift ideas to make your caregiver feel loved!

Nanny Appreciation Week

So I am new to the nanny circuit. When we had Elijah, our third, in 2016, I was able to juggle him and work from home. Work often was based on his nap schedule and because he was such a good baby, he would play while I quickly got up a post, worked on social media content, or managed the day to day tasks of owning a small business. When Eli was around 7 months old, we learned we were pregnant. At our 9 week check-up, we learned it was twins. Initially, considering a nanny wasn’t even on our radar. Our income came in and quickly went out to a list of designated spots – mortgage, groceries, retirement, activities, etc. You name it! I understood living paycheck to paycheck, I still do. After accepting the fact, twins were on the way and we would have 3 children under 14 months of age, I was either going to quit the blog, or we were going to have to shift some financial matters… we chose the later.

Finding a Nanny

My husband I researched the benefit of preschools and nannies. The benefits of having a nanny far outweighed sending the kids to preschool, especially at such young ages. This kept the kids in a familiar environment, allowed me to still work flexibly (and help), and also gave us help with the day to day happenings in the home. The twins were born premature and weighted only four and a half pounds. I knew they would need me their first few months and being able to work and having them in the next room was so important to me. We found our nanny on Care.com. Care did background checks for us and allowed us to interview and learn about a number of nannies. I can’t tell you how many commercials I saw over the years and thought “I would never hire a care taker on that site” …God laughs! We are so blessed to have picked the nanny direction and I swear God placed the right nanny in our life! She is fun, she is engaging, she sticks to the schedule I proved her (I am a Babywise mama!), and most importantly, she loves on our kids (and visa versa)!

National Nanny Recognition Week

Since 1998, Nanny Appreciation Week aka National Nanny Recognition Week has been observed the last week of September to recognize and celebrate nannies. I had no idea about this before our current nanny, but as a “Pinterest Mom” I was sure going to rock it! The pressure was on!

Nanny Candy Bar Letter

The first thing we did was a Candy Bar Letter. I have seen many candy bar letters in my lifetime (Father’s Day, coaches, teachers, etc) but I have never done one for a caregiver. Making the adjustment wasn’t too hard, our letter read…

To Our Hot Tamale aka Super Nanny, You are Mounds of fun, bring us many Snickers and Joy (add Almond Joy and cross off the almond, we forgot it), and you rarely Take 5 for yourself. We were going to give you a million bucks on Payday, but the money slipped through our Butterfinger (add a s). After paying a sad Symphony, we decide to Orbit the Milky Way to tell you that we love you to Pieces. We are Extra lucky as you were Ment (take off os) for us. Love, your little Peeps.

Since Nanny Appreciation is a week long, we did something fun and surprising for each day – sorta like a treasure hunt for our nanny. The first thing we acknowledge was all the “crap” she took – after all, she is changing diapers for three boys daily which easily equates to over a dozen diapers a day, many filled with… crap.

Day 1 – Starbucks Gift Card

The first place we hid our treasure hunt was in the diaper changing station, in the diapers. I purchased a Starbucks Gift Card and I tucked one in the first diaper she would grab.

The note read…

You take a lot of crap, have a drink on us!

Day 2 – Grocery Gift Card

Some of the benefits of having our nanny is she keeps us fed. I am in hideout mode in my room getting work done and can’t get dinner prepped without the kids immediately needing me. She is such a wonderful cook and does our grocery shopping and preps our dinners. This has been one of the biggest blessings by far. Our second hidden gift card was for our grocery store and was was hidden in the refrigerator.

The note read…

Thanks for keeping us well fed! Here are some groceries for you too. Nom Nom.

Day 3 – Dunkin’ Gift Card

Another benefit of a nanny is bathing. This is something a caregiver could not do in a day care. Our nanny bathes the boys before naps. Not only does this give them a good afternoon rest, it also allows us to enjoy the evenings with the boys without trying to accomplish the checklist of baths! In the bath tub, we hid a Dunkin’ Gift Card.

The note read…

We knew we would find you here. Thanks for keeping us clean. Donut you know we would stink without you? (Also consider, donut know what we would do without you!)

Day 4 – Shell Gas Gift Card

Another benefit of a nanny is driving the kids two and from school and filling up the gas tank. Not only does she fill up our tank with gas, she fills up our tank in general (pun intended!) There was a lot of pun in this Shell Gas Gift Card.

The note read…

We are surprised to find you here. What a relief. Thanks for the gas you put in our tank.

Day 5 – Amazon Gift Card

Being a nanny is exhausting… I know, I am a mom! Our little crew take 5 naps a day. That means she is putting in a crib or taking them, ten times a day, I am sure there are times she wishes that she could jump in there too! For this, we got her an Amazon Gift Card so she could shop in her PJs in her own bed!

The note read…

Hey, Super Nanny, Don’t you wish you could give in that bed too? Here’s to only shopping in your PJs. Night, Night.

It’s important to recognize your nanny beyond Nanny Appreciation Week. If a week is to much for you, consider doing some of these things through out the year to tell you babysitter, nanny, or caregiver you appreciate them!

Nanny appreciation week is the last week of every September. Creative ways to recognize your nannie as well as babysitter gift ideas! NannyAppreciationWeek #NationalNannyRecognitionWeek #FrugalCouponLiving

Have a new baby? Take a look at these Newborn Hacks and Tips. Pin to Pinterest.

Terrible twos? You are going to need it, also study these Toddler Hacks and Tips. Pin to Pinterest.

Copycat Sonic Cherry Limeade Recipe – Famous Drive-In Beverage

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

May 29, 2018 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Facebook, Frugal Living, Instagram, Pinterest, Recipe, Restaurant, Social Media 5 Comments

Mix up this easy Copycat Sonic Cherry Limeade – just a splash of Sprite, a twist of lime, and cherry flavoring and replicate your favorite popular drive-in beverage from Sonic. This easy summer drink recipe will be on rotation!

Copycat Sonic Cherry Limeade Recipe

Grab a Styrofoam cup and replicate this favorite drive-in beverage. Just a splash of sprite, a touch of lime and cherry and you’ll be sure to save on your favorite refreshing drink! Feel like you just rolled out of your favorite drive-thru.

Enjoy!

Copycat Sonic Cherry Limeade Recipe

Ingredients:

12 oz sprite
2 Maraschino Cherries
1/8 Lime (cut in 2 wedges)
3 tbsp liquid from Maraschino Cherry jar
1 cup Crushed Ice

Directions:

Place cherries and 1 lime wedge in bottom of a glass.
Fill with crushed ice.
Add Sprite.
Add cherry liquid and squeeze juice from second lime wedge on top.

Copycat Sonic Cherry Limeade Recipe – Famous Drive-In Beverage

Author: Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living

Scale

Ingredients

12 oz sprite
2 Maraschino Cherries
1/8 Lime (cut in 2 wedges)
3 tbsp liquid from Maraschino Cherry jar
1 cup Crushed Ice

Instructions

Place cherries and 1 lime wedge in bottom of a glass.
Fill with crushed ice.
Add Sprite.
Add cherry liquid and squeeze juice from second lime wedge on top.

One of our favorite recipes is this Simple & Southern Peach Iced Tea Recipe. Pin to Pinterest.

But the tea loving doesn’t have to stop there. Take a look at this Simple & Southern Strawberry Sweet Tea. Pin to Pinterest.

Stay cool with this copycat Lemonade Recipe – Copycat Chick-fil-A Lemonade Recipe. Pin to Pinterest.

Have a drink on us. Enjoy this Easy Raspberry Tea. Pin to Pinterest.

Dr. Seuss Food | Cat in the Hat Rice Krispie Treats

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

January 23, 2018 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Frugal Living, Instagram, Pinterest, Recipe, Social Media, Summer Leave a Comment

February 2nd is Dr Seuss Birthday. To prepare we created a Dr. Seuss food or treat for all of you – Cat in the Hat Rice Krispie Treats! Enjoy.

Dr. Seuss Food | Cat in the Hat Rice Krispie Treats

Hosting a Dr. Seuss Party? Ready for Dr. Seuss Day on March 2nd? Whatever the special occasion, we all love the classic The Cat in the Hat. Celebrate Dr. Seuss with one of your favorite characters in Rice Krispie Treat form! No one can mistake that red and white hat filled with mischief and fun! Make Dr. Seuss Day memorable with a tray of these at a party or even an after-school snack with friends! They’re so easy to make, let the kids join in the fun of stirring and decorating!

Ingredients:

Ingredients for Rice Krispies:

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
Two 10 oz. bags of mini marshmallows
10 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)

Ingredients for Dr Seuss Rice Krispies:

2 T solid shortening
3/4 cup Wilton white chocolate melts
9 large red Airheads candies (or red fruit roll ups)
Black write-on gel
Red write-on gel

Directions:

Directions for Rice Krispies:

Spray a 9 x 9 pan with Pam and set aside.
In a large sauce pan, melt the butter over low heat.
Add the marshmallows to the melted butter, stirring constantly.
Once the marshmallows are melted, remove from the heat and stir in the cereal and optional salt until well-coated.
Using a rubber spatula (spray with Pam for easier handling), transfer the cereal mixture to the prepared pan and press down firmly and evenly.
Allow the Rice Krispies to cool in the pan completely.

Assembly Directions for Dr. Seuss Treats:

Line a baking sheet with wax or parchment paper. Set aside.
Cut the prepared Rice Krispies (from recipe above) into 6 even long rectangles.
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, microwave the solid shortening for 40 seconds or until melted.
Add the white chocolate melts and stir until completely melted.
Immediately coat each Rice Krispies stick with the melted white chocolate and place on the baking sheet to “set” for at least 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, cut each Airheads piece into 2 pieces lengthwise. You will have 18 pieces total.
Once the chocolate on the Rice Krispies is dry, take an Airhead piece and wrap around a Rice Krispies stick at the very top of the stick. Pinch at the back to seal.
Wrap another Airheads piece around the stick about 1/2-1 inch down from the top one. Pinch at the back to seal.
Repeat step 7 with another Airheads piece. Complete steps 6-8 until all of the Rice Krispies have 3 airheads pieces alternating with white chocolate for the hat.
With the black write-on gel, pipe two eyes, a nose and whiskers on each stick.
At the very bottom of each stack, pipe a large “X” with the red write-on gel. Fill it in with the gel to resemble a bow tie.

Cat in the Hat Rice Krispie Treats

Author: Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living

Scale

Ingredients

1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
Two 10 oz. bags of mini marshmallows
10 cups Rice Krispies cereal
1/4 teaspoon sea salt (optional)
2 T solid shortening
3/4 cup Wilton white chocolate melts
9 large red Airheads candies (or red fruit roll ups)
Black write-on gel
Red write-on gel

Instructions

Spray a 9 x 9 pan with Pam and set aside.
In a large sauce pan, melt the butter over low heat.
Add the marshmallows to the melted butter, stirring constantly.
Once the marshmallows are melted, remove from the heat and stir in the cereal and optional salt until well-coated.
Using a rubber spatula (spray with Pam for easier handling), transfer the cereal mixture to the prepared pan and press down firmly and evenly.
Allow the Rice Krispies to cool in the pan completely.
Line a baking sheet with wax or parchment paper. Set aside.
Cut the prepared Rice Krispies (from recipe above) into 6 even long rectangles.
In a medium microwave-safe bowl, microwave the solid shortening for 40 seconds or until melted.
Add the white chocolate melts and stir until completely melted.
Immediately coat each Rice Krispies stick with the melted white chocolate and place on the baking sheet to “set” for at least 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, cut each Airheads piece into 2 pieces lengthwise. You will have 18 pieces total.
Once the chocolate on the Rice Krispies is dry, take an Airhead piece and wrap around a Rice Krispies stick at the very top of the stick. Pinch at the back to seal.
Wrap another Airheads piece around the stick about 1/2-1 inch down from the top one. Pinch at the back to seal.
Repeat step 7 with another Airheads piece. Complete steps 6-8 until all of the Rice Krispies have 3 airheads pieces alternating with white chocolate for the hat.
With the black write-on gel, pipe two eyes, a nose and whiskers on each stick.
At the very bottom of each stack, pipe a large “X” with the red write-on gel. Fill it in with the gel to resemble a bow tie.

Celebrate Dr. Seuss Day with your own Cat in the Hat Rice Krispies Treats! #drseuss @KelloggsUSClick to Tweet

We love rice Krispie Treats, check out all these other rice krispie treats we have made on Frugal Coupon Living! Many for every season!

Ready for Dr. Seuss Day on March 2nd? Pick up our FREE Dr. Seuss Party Pack Printable! Pin to Pinterest.

Also don’t forget our Copycat Sonic Ocean Water! We made our a Dr Seuss theme! Pin to Pinterest.

Also enjoy these Dr Suess Crafts Printables and Recipes! Pin to Pinterest.

Potty Training Tips and Tricks

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

September 3, 2017 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Facebook, Frugal Living, Instagram, Kids, Pinterest, Social Media 2 Comments

Potty training can be tricky. From accidents to night-wets to consistency to motivation, we have some of the best Potty Training Tips and Tricks. Hacks to help you and your toddler succeed.

Potty Training Tips and Tricks

Pin to Pinterest

Who dreads potty training? Mothers who have been there before, definitely don’t look back on this period of time with glee. I remember with my first I was in a rush to get her out of diapers and potty trained. With my second, I probably delayed longer than she needed to go but it was much easier training.

My best advice, coming from a mother who has trained two and needs to train three more, is don’t rush it. I definitely had a better experience with my second having taken my time and discussed it months before actually jumping in. She also was able to see her older sibling use the potty and wanted to do the same. When you begin, give your child a lot of liquids. I found it best to go strait to panties and to stay home. A lot of movies and a lot of fun outdoors. Initially we set a timer. If you can put your child in front of the timer, it gives them control and they like that. Consider 30 to 90 minute increments.

The best advice for getting through the night was waking your child. Well not technically waking. I picked up my child out of bed. They pretty much remained asleep and sat them on the toilet. I did this right before I went to bed, around 10 PM each evening. I whispered in their ear, “go potty” and she easily went potty. This saved us a lot from bed-wetting in the night.

Best of all, bring a sense of humor and perhaps a drink at night (mama needs it!) Enjoy these Potty Training Tips and Tricks and be sure to share with us any hacks or tricks you had when training your own child to use the bathroom.

Stickers are exciting, Here’s a fun Free Printable Potty Training Chart to help your little one stay motivated during the potty training journey. (Pick up star stickers HERE) | Alice and Lois

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Pan to stay home and drink lots of liquids. This will give you toddler plenty of opportunities for practice and success!

For convenience, when potty training store the potty seat on the wall near the toilet with a Command hook. | Everyday Organizing

Pull-ups has an amazing resource. Get your child excited to start potty training by receiving a phone call from one of their favorite Disney characters. | Pull-Ups

We all know that a toddler wants to do their own thing! This potty watch has three different reminder times (30, 60 or 90 minutes) plus flashing lights and music gently remind your toddler when to go. Get it HERE.

This tip comes from me! Potty training in the night can be hard. Limit liquids 1 to 2 hours before bed. I would always pick up my sleeping toddler at 10 PM (around my bed time) and sit her on the toilet. I would whisper in her ear to “go pee pee on the potty.” This limited our nighttime accidents by A LOT – almost non existent. I did this for months to close to a year. A potty light would be great for those night time visits.

Who wants to clean the poo? Use coffee filters when your child has to poop. Obviously these don’t flush, so just toss in the diaper pail. I always used a plastic grocery bag. | Mama Frankenstein

When traveling, you can use a diaper. Keep a cheap potty chair in your car along with a few diapers. If your child needs to go to the bathroom, open a diaper and put in the bottom of the potty chair. When he is done, wrap up the diaper and done. No mess. | A Haven of Chaos

As a mom of 5, take it from me. The worse thing to clean during potty training is the car seat after an accident. Pick up a waterproof car seat pad (or Piddlepad). We also used changing pad pads or old burp cloths. | Etsy Store LaneyJDesigns

Create a fun potty treat jar. One M&M for sitting on the potty, two M&Ms for going pee-pee and three M&Ms for going poo-poo. | A Pumpkin and a Princess

Put your child backwards on the toilet and give them a dry erase marker. Let them color away. | Source Unknown

This is one of those, why didn’t’ I think of that items. My child hated the automatic flushing toilet! Carry a pack of post-it notes in your purse. In public bathrooms, place a sticky-note over the sensor to relieve fears! | My Crazy Blessed Life

Tell those cute toddlers they get to pull the paper down to the paper – and when it gets there, they tear it off! (Honestly this would work for my older kids too – anyone else!?!) | Today’s the Best Day

Speaking of the potty, another genius idea – take a look at this potty training tip! Drop blue food coloring in the potty. Tell your child when they go, the water will magically turn green! | Source Unknown

Make your own training pants for potty training with this tutorial! | Life Sew Savory

Create a potty chart with milestones… like Candyland. Place a small sticker on each hallow square and a larger sticker on each solid square. Each solid square gets a reward. | Steps Naptime Notes

Create a potty zone with books, changing of underwear, bubbles, and or something to color. You can put a puppy pad below the toilet. | Source Unknown

Pull-Ups has the Top 5 Potty Training Games | Pull-Ups

Hit up the Dollar Store or Target’s dollar section before you begin training (remember you want to be home a few days). Have a reward potty treat bag for hitting milestones. | Embellish Goods

These might be useful, take a look at these Top 10 Potty Training Apps. | Source Unknown

Toddlers are tricky – happy one moment, screaming the next. Take a look at these Toddler Tips – Why didn’t I think of that hacks and tricks?! Pin to Pinterest.

Are you a new (even a repeat) mama? I am a mama of 5 and these Newborn Tips, Hacks and Tricks are pretty creative. Pin to Pinterest.

April 2019
S	M	T	W	T	F	S
« Mar
	1	2	3	4	5	6
7	8	9	10	11	12	13
14	15	16	17	18	19	20
21	22	23	24	25	26	27
28	29	30