Living Frugal in Richmond VA

My problem with a couple of articles and links I posted

2009-11-25T13:13:00.000-05:00

I have problems with two of the articles/links I recently published.
One had atrocious spelling and grammar and a visible lack of editing. That article also had some reader comments that were overtly hostile, rude and racist. I know in America we are allowed our opinions, no matter how absurd or nasty, but a good site editor should prune the more offensive comments and that includes racist and hateful posts which add nothing but anger to the discussion.
The other article was essentially a good article but a portion of the article was nothing more than an advertising pitch for the site's products. I know the site is going to advertise their wares, but they should avoid using half of an otherwise timely and informative article for product pitches.
I apologize to any of my readers who were offended by these articles.
The mentioned articles contained much timely and valid information but had the above problems and I regret that my readers had to deal with those problems.
MEA CULPA!

Yet another article about BLACK FRIDAY deceptions...

2009-11-25T13:01:00.000-05:00

Worst Holiday Shopping Gotchas

More on BLACK FRIDAY Shopping and its hazards....

2009-11-23T13:13:00.002-05:00

BLACK FRIDAY Shopping and its hazards:

From Yahoo! :
Dirty Secrets of Black Friday Retailers

From Sixwise:
http://www.sixwise.com/Newsletters/2009/November/23/Shocking-Shopping-Secrets.htm?source=nl ets.htm?source=nl

The Day of Thanks and Giving...

2009-11-22T23:03:00.001-05:00

This coming Thursday, November 26, 2009 is THANKSGIVING, the day we sit down and gorge ourselves on too much food and watch football on TV.

WAIT! It's supposed to be the day that we sit down to give thanks for and share our bounty with others, no National Pig-out and Veg-Out Day that is has become!

More alarming still, it is becoming the day to rest-up for the next day which is retailers BLACK FRIDAY.

Followers of this humble blog know that I am all up for a good bargain and some frugal fun. However, I am totally against shopping on Thanksgiving and the craziness of Black Friday.

Last Black Friday a person was trampled to death in a mad Black Friday crush at a Walmart in New York. Think it couldn't happen here in old Virginia? Think again.

When Henrico County had sale of used Mac laptops for $50.00 each, old ladies, kids and a pregnant woman were knocked down by crazed, greedy bargain seekers. Luckily no one was seriously injured that time, but it could happen when lunatics bent on grabbing up cheap electronics stampede like elephants over anyone and anything in the way of their golden prize.

I know the economy is tight right now and we want bargains more than ever, but think about the madness of camping out overnight in cold weather for 'door busters' in the wee early hours, grumpy sleep-deprived, underpaid retail clerks, employees and manic, pushy people that are the typical Black Friday. I think that craziness says a lot about the ills of our society and economy.

Me, I'm looking around for bargains, but I'm NOT going out on Black Friday. I'm waiting for Cyber Monday where the only crowds will be hogged bandwidth !

And on Thanksgiving, I am going to feast with friends and give thanks for my blessings.
This year instead of the mad-dash for the bargain aisle, why don't we spend our time, money and energy with friends and family and on helping the less fortunate among us?

FARMER'S MARKET CHANGES DAYS

2009-11-22T22:34:00.000-05:00

The Farmer's Market at St. Stephen's Church has changed days from Saturday morning to Wednesday afternoon.

I am glad the market is still open but Wednesday afternoon is an inconvenient time for most of us working folks.

Recycling Shoes

2009-10-14T22:17:00.004-04:00

The above photo by M.E.Lohmeyer is of the Old Shoe House in Hellams, PA
All rights reserved. Enjoy but do not copy, alter or claim this photo as your own.

Here are some places that you can recycle old shoes, especially old athletic shoes:
http://www.nikereuseashoe.com/
http://www.soles4souls.org/about/locations.cgi http://oneworldrunning.blogspot.com/2007/05/drop-off-locations.html

Thanks to IDEAL BITE, a daily green email newsletter, for these links.

Time to think about the upcoming holidays

2009-09-17T17:41:00.002-04:00

How will your holiday (Christmas, Hanukkah or other seasonal or religious celebration)be this year?
Will it be just one more shop-a-holic fest to impress the neighbors and prop up flagging retail sales or will you be doing thoughtful, frugal giving in line with your means? It is not your sacred or moral duty to support retailers by over-spending.
Will you buy things you really can't afford and others probably don't need just to impress or placate people?
Will you dread January and all the credit card bills rolling in?
Well, folks, the time to think about this is NOW!
I have never gone way overboard splurging at Christmas. I don't have the money and I don't have that many people to shop for. I set a limit. I ask people what they might want or need and try to get them their requests within my budget.
Throughout the year, if I see something on sale or at a yard sale or thrift shop that I am sure would delight someone at Christmas, I snap it up! (With the used items, I buy only collectible or like new items. I'm frugal, but I don't want to give people scraps.)
I save gift bags and such to re-use.
In your holiday giving, don't forget charity and people near you in need. THAT is the true spirit of Christmas.

Although I don't agree with some of the political and religious views of the writer of the following essay, I think she makes a very valid point about the commercialization of Christmas and the outsourcing of our jobs that sustains the retail industry:Whose birthday is it anyway?

For resources for a simpler, more frugal holiday:

FREE MAMMOGRAMS & PAP TESTS

2009-08-30T22:27:00.004-04:00

If you are woman resident of Virginia between the ages of 50 and 64 and are uninsured or underinsured and meet certain income qualifications, you may qualify to receive a free MAMMOGRAM & PAP SMEAR TEST. Got to www.vahealth.org/breastcancer or call 1/866-395-4968.

Stock photo from: http://www.freedigitalphotos.net

FREE NEW SHOES FOR SCHOOL KIDS!

2009-08-30T21:56:00.003-04:00

If your K-12 kids need shoes for back to school and you can not afford them; help is here:
On Monday, September 7th (Labor Day) from 8A.M.-12 NOON
the Third Street Bethel A.M.E. Church at 614 North 3rd Street
is giving away shoes to K-12 children accompanied by a parent.

Stock shoe photo from: http://www.freedigitalphotos.net

A BIT OF SELF-PROMO!

2009-08-23T16:54:00.005-04:00

I am selling some books for good prices. I am pricing them according to condition and rarity and will give a discount to those purchasing three (3) or more books and an even bigger discount if you purchase the whole lot.
Right now I just have some astrology and new-age books for sale, but I will be adding others soon.
I will have some cookbooks and self-help books, among others.
I have an ad on Craigslist in the book sales area (used astrology books - Henrico Co., VA) but I will gladly email a list upon request.

FREE CLICKS TO DONATE

2009-08-23T16:43:00.004-04:00

Click to donate to animals and others. The Animal Rescue site also has partners that you can access to click to donate free food to hungry people, for child health issues, breast cancer, the rain forests and for literacy.
These clicks are free to you & take only seconds of your time.
Spread the word: the more people that click everyday, the more donations.
The sites also have shops that give most of the proceeds of sales to their respective causes.

EXPAND YOUR VOCABULARY WHILE GIVING FOOD TO THE HUNGRY!

2009-08-14T15:16:00.003-04:00

Play FREE RICE and expand your vocabulary while giving free rice to needy, hungry people! It's fun, free to you and educational!

URGENT! FOOD BANK NEEDS DONATIONS!

2009-08-11T15:12:00.007-04:00

Now more than ever, the FOOD BANK needs your donations of non-perishable foods, (watch those expiration dates!) toiletries, baby supplies, pet food,etc.
Because of the economic downturn and many job losses, recently the FOOD BANK has seen a rise in need of 20%-40%.
Please give as much as you can either directly to the FOOD BANK or through the many drives sponsored by workplaces, houses of worship. community groups, scouting troops, postal service, grocery stores and supermarkets, etc.
If you have enough food, you are blessed ! Please pass on that blessing to others in need!

Housing Search

2009-08-11T15:07:00.002-04:00

With many people losing jobs and falling behind on mortgages, rental housing is now an important option for many more people in Virginia.
Go to http://www.virginiahousingsearch.com/ to search for affordable housing in Virginia.
The site has a calculator and chart to held you determine how much you can afford to spend on rent.

A bit further afield

2009-08-07T23:28:00.004-04:00

Tomorrow I am going to go to the Williamsburg/Yorktown area. While in Williamsburg, I am going to check out the Williamsburg Farmer's Market .
Like many such markets, it is seasonal and held on Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. to 12 noon.
I heard about this market on Travelscope, a wonderful, friendly little travel program featuring traveler Joseph Rosendo. It's on PBS, Channel 24 (non-cable Channel 56) weekdays at 7:00 p.m.

Cooler seniors

2009-08-07T23:21:00.003-04:00

For cooling assistance for senior citizens call 804-343-3005.
Leave your name, phone number and a good time to call and someone will get back to you ASAP. I heard about this on WWBT-TV.

SALES TAX HOLIDAY AT THE END OF THIS WEEK

2009-08-02T22:35:00.004-04:00

August 7, 8 & 9, 2009 are the dates of the SALES TAX HOLIDAY for back-to-school items for Virginians. Check the Virginia Department of Taxation site for a complete list of applicable purchases. This tax holiday often coincides with retail sales for such items, so stock up on those school supplies at a discount and tax-free!

>!!! Check back with the Department of Taxation for the announcement of the date of the October Energy Star Appliance Sales Tax Holiday on greener, more energy efficient household appliances.

Some more Farmer's Markets

2009-08-02T18:26:00.005-04:00

Market Umbrella is an organization dedicated to bringing European style markets featuring fresh local food and wares from artisans to Richmond.

Their current markets are:

Market Emporium @ Bryan Park
Lakeside Ave and I-95, exit 80
TUESDAY'S from 3 - 7 pm
May - December

South of the James Market @ Forest Hill Park
Forest Hill Ave & 42nd Street
SATURDAY'S from 8 am - 1 pm
May - December

Market Umbrella 1st Fridays @ Quirk Gallery
311 W. Broad Street
1st FRIDAY of each month from 6 - 10 pm
Year Round

The Veggie Bus

2009-08-02T18:17:00.003-04:00

A bus, driven by Mark Lilly, is bringing fresh produce to lower income areas of Richmond, areas not traditionally served by farmer's markets and vendors of fresh and healthy produce.
Read the article in Style Weekly:
http://tinyurl.com/lwob2r

FREE ONLINE CLASSES FROM HP

2009-07-10T15:12:00.000-04:00

HP(of computer and printer fame) offers some great free classes and learning tools at:

www.hp.com/go/learningcenter

HP offers a wide variety of computer and IT classes, as well as basic business and home office education. The classes are free, totally online and lead by working professionals. You can ask questions of the instructors and chat with your 'classmates' on the discussion boards.
After succesful completion of your class, you can print out a certificate for that class.
You won't get college credit (unless your college accepts these as life long learning credit. You could ask!) but you will get excellent information and training for free.
I've taken several of these courses and I learned some skills and information at HP that weren't included in the advanced IT courses I took at my community college!

A piece of free advice!

2009-07-04T00:12:00.001-04:00

Many of you may be filling out forms these days for various reasons; job applications, college applications, loan and financial aide applications, insurance forms,etc.
I work with forms everyday and we send back forms that have not been filled out completely and according to the instructions on the forms. We have to send back as many as 50 incorrectly or inadequately filled forms a day and many people are waiting for our forms as a part of a job application process!
So a word of advice; FILL OUT THOSE FORMS COMPLETELY AND CORRECTLY!
If an area is not applicable to you, write N/A. If information is unknown to you or you don't remember, indicate UNK (unknown). If you need to get your signature notarized, do so and make you you bring proper I.D. to the notary public and that the notary's term is still current and that they have a notary number. If you are under 18, get your parent or guardian's notarized co-signature. Respect any date deadlines. If payment is required, pay only in the manner requested. Money orders are almost always acceptable.
Don't fill out or sign any area that is not yours to sign. For some reason, many people sign and date the area that is indicated for the office staff only!
How would you feel if the ONLY reason you lost out on a job opportunity or a loan was an incorrectly filled form?
Follow the above guidelines and save yourself time, money and a lot of grief.

ELEVATE AMERICA!

2009-06-20T00:01:00.000-04:00

Microsoft is offering free certification to the growing ranks of unemployed and under-employed workers in America. The link is through a WWBT TV link.
http://www.nbc12.com/Global/Link.asp?L=392600

Two New Farmer's Markets in the West End !

2009-06-19T23:43:00.000-04:00

ST. STEPHEN'S FARMERS MARKET
@ St. Stephen's Church - 6600 Grove Avenue
- SATURDAYS - 8:00 AM- 12:00 Noon
May through October

WEST END FARMER'S MARKET
@ Gayton Road & Ridgefield Parkway
Richmond, VA 23238
- WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS
8:00 AM - 12:00 NOON
April 25th through December 12th. (weather permitting)
Closed on Federal Holidays

WEST END PRODUCE HAS RELOCATED! YEAH!

2009-05-03T23:34:00.000-04:00

West End Produce, which sells vegetables, fruits, flowers and plants as well as some breads and jams,etc., has found a new location! YEAH!!!
I was so dismayed when they closed the old location and hadn't heard if they had found a new location. Today we drove as we drove up Patterson Avenue heading towards Route 288, I noticed the new stand as we drove by.
The new location is still on Patterson Avenue (Route 6)but is about a mile or more further west on Patterson Avenue than the old stand, which was at Patterson and Gaskins . The new stand is on the south side of Patterson Avenue.

Good article on coping without insurance

2009-04-22T18:19:00.000-04:00

http://www.bankrate.com/finance/insurance/dealing-without-health-insurance-1.aspx

Bankrate's article gives advice on coping if you have no health insurance or have recently lost your insurance. You can also use the site to compare insurance plans and costs.
It has some ideas for the 47+ MILLION WORKING AMERICANS (shameful! just shameful!) who, like me (And I work for the STATE OF VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES, not a small business!), are uninsured.
The state of medical insurance or lack thereof is the shame of America! We are the land of the free, the home of the brave and a country in which it seems many government and private concerns don't care if we live or die!
America is the only major 1st world, industrialized country that does not provide some sort of medical care and social safety net for ALL its citizens.
In America, you have to be rag-tag poor to get help and then many people look down on you and think you are a lazy bum.
How can we purport to be a GREAT country if we treat a good portion of our citizens like beggars and instead, we reward greed?
America, our country is now reaping what we have sown in so many ways and unfortunately, the many are paying for the gross abuses of the few.

FREE ONLINE CLASSES

2009-04-15T22:29:00.000-04:00

http://www.gcflearnfree.org/

FREE ONLINE CLASSES FEATURING ACCREDITED INSTRUCTORS AND CONTINUED LEARNING CREDITS AND CERTIFICATES FROM GOODWILL.

The classes and skill levels are basic/beginner but I am sure many people could benefit from these classes. I could use the EXCEL classes myself.

SAD NEWS!

2009-04-12T22:26:00.000-04:00

I am sad to have to report that four treasured local frugal and/or green resources have closed! It's especially distressing to see thrift stores close during times of economic distress:
CLOSED are:
~~~ The Pepperridge Farm Bakery Outlet
~~~ The Entemann's Bakery Outlet
~~~ Patterson Avenue Produce (forced to move so the space could be used to build yet another d*mn chain drugstore. *&*%%$) If he can find a decent, affordable location, he will re-open.
~~~ St. Mary's A Golden Opportunity Thrift Store.

Help when you need it!

2009-04-12T21:46:00.001-04:00

During these tough economic times, being frugal may not be not enough. Sometimes, if one has lost his or her job or had unexpected expenses, one simply needs extra help, whether that help be from friends and family or private charity or the government.
Help in extenuating circumstances should not be construed as 'living on the dole' nor should one be too proud to seek and accept such help if truly needed.
With that in mind, I am listing several resources for you.
Because I work at the Virginia Department of Social Services Home Office, I often get notice of such programs before they are announced to the general public or notice of programs that most folks would have to spend hours digging through the web to find.

I must ask one favor of my readers: Please do not seek out these resources just to be frugal or to get something for free. Please use them if you truly need them, but if you are doing okay, please leave them for those who are truly needy.

FIRST STOP: Phone 211 ! 211 is staffed by professionally trained individuals whose job is to help you find help!

Other resources:
Angel Food Ministries: http://www.angelfoodministries.com/
Angel Food dispenses a large box of nutritious food monthly for one low price. Anyone can participate.

Food bank: If you don't need to use the food bank yourself, please donate:
In addition to food stored in non-perishable containers, the food bank welcomes donations of toiletries such a toothbrushes and pastes, shampoo and soap.
AND they can use pet food donations to help distressed people feed their pets.
http://www.cvfb.org/

Need a car for work or to look for work but can't afford one?
http://www.opportunitycars.com/cars_for_low-income_families.htm

Cellphone?
https://www.safelinkwireless.com/EnrollmentPublic/home.aspx

This link was promoted on the WTVR - TV 6 website and news. I have no idea if the program works or not but I can't believe a local TV station, especially the home of reporter and advocate extraordinaire Mark Holmberg, would be deliberately promoting a rip-off. It's supposed to help people with lousy or no credit get a car.
http://1800startover.com/

Benefits, grants, etc. from the U.S. government:
http://www.usa.gov/Citizen/Topics/Benefits.shtml

Low cost and free Internet services:
http://www.freedomlist.com/

FREE TREE SEEDLINGS!

2009-03-05T21:37:00.001-05:00

It's time to start thinking about your Spring garden and yard.
Need trees?
Henrico County is giving away free bare root tree seedlings to Henrico County residents, on a first come, first served basis.

WHEN: Friday, March 20, 2009 - 8:30 AM until all trees are gone.
WHERE: Hermitage High School Parking Lot
(intersection of Hungary Spring and Parham Roads)

The following species will be available at the Seedling Giveaway:
Red Bud
Sourwood
White Dogwood
Bald Cypress
Red Maple
Winterberry Holly
Green Ash
American Holly
White Oak
Red Osier Dogwood
American Arborvitae
River Birch
Cranberry Viburnum

Shared Housing

2009-02-28T22:47:00.000-05:00

Years ago there used to be lots of rooming houses and shared housing. I used to manage a rooming house in the Fan. This form of housing was extremely commonplace during the Great Depression and is still commonplace among new immigrants to the U.S.
Nowadays, however,it seems everybody and their blasted American brother feels they must own a McMansion for with enough space for three families, even though only a small family may actually reside in the place. A big part of the housing crisis stems from people buying over-priced McMansions and assuming more mortage than they could actually afford.
With the housing and mortage crisis and ever rising rents and utility costs and with the call for more sustainable living, perhaps it's time we revisited the concept of shared housing.
Shared housing has kept some people from foreclosure, others from homelessness.
Here's a link to a national effort for shared housing.
If you have a house with some extra rooms and need some more money or you are looking for a place to live, this might be a solution for you!

http://www.nationalsharedhousing.org/

Circuit City

2009-02-28T22:34:00.000-05:00

I am very sad to see Circuit City go belly up, mostly because of the lost jobs for area residents and the lost tax revenue for the area.
I just went to their liquidation sale and got some decent, though not super outstanding, bargains. I got a stack of DVD-R discs for about $12.00 and two DVD movies for about $8.00 each.
Not much is left.
I think some reasons many of the items they are liquidating are not such good bargains is that they were priced a bit high to begin with and the discounts on some of the items is still 40% or less. With only eight days left to go on the liquidation, with store fixtures being sold and removed, (not to mention the lousy economy), I'd think they would discount as much as possible just to get rid of the rest and make a few bucks in the process. Maybe this is part of the reason retailers, even so-called discount retailers, are in such dire straits nowadays.

NEW FARMER'S MARKET NEAR WILLOWLAWN !

2009-02-28T22:22:00.000-05:00

There's going to be a new Farmer's Market in the CrossRoads Center lot.
CrossRoads Center is on Staples Mill Road, about two/three blocks north of West Broad Street.
It's opening in March. I don't know the days, hours or vendors, but add them when I know more.

WE THE SAVERS

2008-12-29T21:14:00.000-05:00

In this uncertain economic time, being frugal is more important than ever. Being a saver is part of the frugal lifestyle. Saving money allows us freedom from fear when unexpected expenses occur, allows us to buy things without going into debt and helps us secure a decent retirement and old age.
America used to be a nation of savers. No more! We are a nation of credit-crazy debtors, from the individual and family on Main Street to the head honchos on Wall Street.
The is no time like the present to start to reverse our fortunes, get out of debt and save, save, save!
It will take time, it will take courage and persistence but it can happen if we just start NOW! No amount is too little to start saving. Round up that change lurking between the couch cushions, save your change after purchases, pocket the savings from coupons and rebates. The more you do this, the easier it gets!
Go sign the pledge at We The Savers to get started.

New BJ's in the West End

2008-12-10T22:20:00.000-05:00

There's a new BJ's wholesale club near Regency Square. BJ's is a membership club offering similar products and services to Costco and Sam's Club.
If you join BJ's during their new member drive, you get three months free + a year membership and $10.00 off the normal $45.00 per year membership. The discount is available through February 2009.
You can get one free day pass to see if you like the store and do some shopping at their member prices.

Address:
1320 Starling Dr. (across from Regency Square Shopping Center)
Richmond, VA 23229

Telephone: 804-727-3500

Store Hours: Gas® Hours:
Mon. - Sat.: 9 A.M. - 9 P.M. Mon. - Sat.: 6:30 A.M. - 9 P.M.
Sun.: 9 A.M. - 8 P.M. Sun.: 6:30 A.M. - 8 P.M.

Two new natural food stores in the Richmond area

2008-12-10T21:55:00.000-05:00

One new store is WHOLE FOODS:
WHOLE FOODS can be expensive, if you buy the fancy brands and the made-to-order foods, but if you stick to their produce and their house brand products, their prices are quite competitive and often as cheap or cheaper than the supermarket. They have an in-house pizzeria, gelato bar and wine bar, as well as offering excellent breads and pastries.
BTWY: This store is HUGE! I'm told it's bigger than many of the D.C. area stores.

SHORT PUMP -11173 West Broad Street
Glen Allen, VA 23060
Phone: 804.364.4050
Fax: 804.364.4032
HOURS: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. seven days a week.
Please call to verify holiday hours.
http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/shortpump/

Another store is TRADER JOE'S:
TRADER JOE'S offers organic and gourmet foods and household products. Most of their best buys are their house brand products and are competitive to WHOLE FOODS and supermarkets. They offer very competitive prices on beer, dairy and meats.

SHORT PUMP - 11331 W Broad St, Ste 161
Glen Allen, VA 23060
Trading Hours: 9 am - 9 pm
Phone: 804-360-4098

Been avoiding this blog for awhile

2008-12-10T21:50:00.000-05:00

With the economy in the toilet, the stock market nosediving and with the thousands of job and home losses, frugal and simple living is more than ever important as a life style.
I've been avoiding the blog because the crazy financial news has been so overwhelming and has my head spinning. Add to this, my sometimes inflammatory opinions on the causes and solutions to this mess, and I've just kept the old pie hole and keyboard quiet.

2 New Bargain Outlets for Richmond

2008-05-28T20:57:00.000-04:00

Last Saturday, when I was in the West End, I happened upon a new bargain store:
Ollie's Bargain Outlet.
Ollie's is similar to a Big Lots or Salvage Barn, although Ollie's does not sell much food.

I found some bargains there. Among the items I purchased were a couple of "Dummies" books for $6.99 each. These books were recent editions and they were priced about 2/3 below retail. I also bought a Rubbermaid across the lap tray for $3.99. I have seen these advertised for anywhere between $6.99 and about 15 bucks. A huge Colgate toothpaste sold for $1.99

Ollie's has some great bargains, but you need to know prices, because some of the items are not particularly good deals.

Ollie's has a frequent customer program called Ollie's Army that offers bonus points, special deals and other perks to its members.

* 804-754-4102
12450 Gayton Road
Richmond, VA 23238

* 804-279-0314
3950 Meadowdale Blvd.
Richmond, VA 23234

Hours at both stores:
Monday - Saturday: 9am - 9pm
Sunday: 10am - 7pm

http://www.olliesbargainoutlet.com/default.aspx

VA Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday

2008-05-13T15:02:00.000-04:00

The State of Virginia is having a SALES TAX HOLIDAY in order to help Virginia citizens better prepare for what is expected to be a heavier than usual hurricane season in the Mid-Atlantic area.
Here's the link to the site that tells you exactly what items will be tax-exempt during the tax holiday.
http://www.vaemergency.com/threats/hurricane/2008taxholiday.cfm

Here's a link to Accuweather's Hurricane Forecast for 2008:
http://tiny.cc/JpWfv

New Farmers Market

2008-05-12T20:38:00.000-04:00

There's a new farmers' market in the Richmond area!
I've not shopped there but it just opened on May 3, 2008.

It's located in the Lakeside Towne Center.
The hours are:
May through November
Wednesday - 8-12 a.m. & 3-7 p.m.
Saturday - 8-12 a.m.

I'm very heartened by this new trend of more local farmers' market located in town or in the near suburbs. The trend helps the local economy, cuts down on long distance shipping fuel costs and greenhouse gas emissions and helps local folks eat better by having easy access to reasonably priced, nutritious in-season produce.

Sad news!

2008-03-03T17:14:00.000-05:00

Sad news! The relatively new Treasure or Trash Thrift Shop on West Broad Street lost its lease and has closed. I am always sad to see any local small business, especially a thrift shop, close.
I never did get the chance to check out TorT and hope the owners find another location and can re-open.

Some frugal home remedies

2008-01-19T23:47:00.000-05:00

Sometimes home remedies for your ailments work! (In the interest of not getting sued, I don't claim that these remedies can diagnose or cure any illness or medical condition)
Here are a few frugal remedies that I have personally found to be helpful:
~ Canned green beans for cold sores - At the first inkling of a cold sore eat canned green beans. Do not drain the beans and do not substitute frozen or fresh beans for canned. The cold sore will stop forming & if already started will be less serious & not last as long. Green beans work better than OTC remedies & as well as prescription remedies. Also, consider taking the amino acid Lysine, available at drugstores & health food stores.
~ Apples & apple juice for Fibromyalgia pain. I'm told it helps as much as many of the OTC & prescription remedies.
~ Artichokes for liver detoxification. Artichokes are a member of the Thistle family & contain the same liver detox herb, Silymarin, as the herbal preparation Milk Thistle. Two fresh, canned or frozen Artichokes twice weekly provide as much Silymarin as a daily 600 mg. Milk Thistle capsule.
~Magnesium for migraine headache prevention & to help prevent nighttime leg cramps. Potassium also helps the cramps. I've also heard that placing a silver spoon on the cramp or sleeping with a bar of Ivory soap under the calf of your leg can help.
~ If you get a cold take sub-lingual (under the tongue) Zinc Gluoccinate tablets. The Zinc shortens the duration & the intensity of the cold. Also, take a laxative & help flush the mucus out of your system & down the drain. And of course, there's always chicken soup!
~ For a stomach ache, take ginger ale or ginger tea or a piece of candied ginger. Ginger also helps nausea.

'Tis Going To Be The Season...

2007-11-07T22:23:00.000-05:00

'Tis going to be the season (Christmas,Hannukah,Yuletide and other winter/religious holidays) for giving presents soon.
But will it be a season for well-thought-out but frugal giving or will it be a season for going into massive debt and buying whatever new gadgets and gizmos that Madison Avenue is pushing this season?
Fellow frugal Richmonders, let's make this a frugal season in which we give presents that will truly be needed and appreciated and that also fit our budgets.
And let's not forget those less fortunate than ourselves.
If you, like me, are a Christian, keep Jesus as the reason for the season and by keeping your focus on Jesus, you will naturally avoid the yearly holiday homage to the retail industry.

Special Help for Medical Bills in Virginia

2007-10-02T21:51:00.000-04:00

If you are experiencing issues with health insurance, job retention, or debt crisis as related to your diagnosis of a chronic, life-threatening or debilitating disease, the Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF) may be able to help.
PAF operates many programs to assist with access to healthcare resources, one of which is the Virginia Cares Uninsured Program (VCUP).
VCUP provides case management assistance to uninsured Virginians diagnosed with a chronic, life-threatening or debilitating disease.
PAF also offers the Co-Pay Relief Program, which provides financial assistance to insured individuals who qualify medically and financially.

> Patient Advocate Foundation: 1-800-532-5274
> Co-Pay Relief Program: 1-866-512-3861
>This information came straight from the website of Virginia Department of Social Services, so I know it is both timely and accurate.

Country Market

2007-09-16T19:51:00.000-04:00

Sometimes a short drive or day trip can yield some great finds:
Last Saturday afternoon, I went to the Country Food & Furniture Market on Midlothian Turnpike (US Route 60) in Flat Rock, VA. Flat Rock is between Midlothian and Powhatan, VA on Route 60.
The market is in a small strip shopping center, Powhatan Station, with a gas station, Henry's Texaco, on the south side of Midlothian Turnpike.

This Mennonite run market features a deli that serves homemade sandwiches, salads and soups and a grocery that sells country-style cheeses, meats, Yoder Dairy milk, pastries, candies, various mixes and flours and herbs, spices and other seasonings. They sell homemade Whoopie Pies, which are the Pennsylvania Dutch version of the venerable southern Moon-Pie.
I bought some old-fashioned pop-it-yourself blue popcorn. It tastes so much better than the microwave stuff!

The food is very fresh and is reasonably priced. As the store is Mennonite-run, it sells no alcohol and is never open on Sundays.
A shop next door sells Mennonite hand-crafted furniture and crafts.
PHONE: 804-794-4454

About posting comments on this blog:

2007-08-18T22:33:00.000-04:00

I appreciate all your comments and ideas. However, I have one request for comment writers: please post your comments under the appropriate heading/area/post. Most of you have done this, but I occasionally find a comment under an unrelated post or heading. If you have any questions about where to post, just email me and I'll be glad to help. Your privacy will be respected.

Please visit my other new blog.

2007-07-07T01:12:00.000-04:00

My newest blog, "Diary of an Uninsured American" is about my travails as a working, uninsured American and my efforts to find affordable, accessible and competent health care .
I'm telling you, frugal Richmonders, it ain't easy!
I have been accused of being down-right cheap, but frugal friends, I just can't understand how, in the richest country in the world, how so many hard-working people can be without health care. Americans, just what is our problem? Why are we the ONLY first-world, industrialized, high-tech nation without a comprehensive national health care plan to cover its working uninsured citizens?
Why do we let seniors decide between prescription drugs or food?
Something is very wrong here and I say it is penny-wise and pound-foolish to continue to treat health care as if it were a luxury, not a necessity.
The old saying: "Our health IS our wealth" is true. Without health, the rest is moot.

New thrift shop on West Broad Street

2007-07-01T20:50:00.000-04:00

There's a new thrift shop on West Broad Street.
I've not shopped there yet; I've only seen it from the bus when I am going to work in the mornings.
I don't know the shop's merchandise or prices, but I'm putting it on this blog so all you frugal Richmonders can check it out.
Trash-n-Treasure Thrift Shop -
2711 West Broad Street (just east of the Boulevard.)
Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10a.m.-6p.m.

Lower Presciption Drug Costs

2007-06-24T18:13:00.000-04:00

In these times when so many Americans are uninsured, under-insured or paying through the nose for co-pays and deductibles, it's great to know there are ways to cut cost on prescription drugs.

Personal opinion:
Attention 2008 presidential candidates of any party:
If you have a good idea of how to solve the insurance and medical cost crisis for the working uninsured, the senior citizen, the poor family, the insured person whose condition is not covered or who lost insurance because of a pre-existing condition and the insured person who pays much of their income into medical co-pays, I am listening and I VOTE!!!

Top 17 Ways to Cut Your Prescription Drug Costs
by The Cost Containment Research Institute

1. You May Qualify for a Free Drug program.

· There are over 1,100 drugs that are made by 100 manufacturers who have free drug programs. Most major drug companies provide free medications, but rarely, if ever publicize their programs. An estimated two billion dollars of free medication is given away annually.

· Larry's father has prostate cancer and takes Casodex every day, which costs $300 a month in the US, and $180 from Mexico. He sent his father's information to see if he qualified. He recently found out his father did qualify to receive the drug free. Larry just happened to see a small article buried inside the newspaper. He never knew these programs existed.

· A complete list of drugs and manufacturers' programs is available. For more information visit: http://www.institutedc.org

2. Get a Pharmacy Discount Card for Free.

· AdvanceRx offers a free discount card to anyone that saves 13%-25% and covers all drugs dispensed at a pharmacy. For details, call 1-800-ADVANCE (238-2623) or www.advancerx.com.

· There are five free discount cards for Senior citizens. The discount cards cover over 200 popular medications.

3. Save Up to 93% by Asking for a Generic

· Use generics whenever they are available. Both brand name and generic drugs contain the same active ingredients, are the same in strength and dosage, meet the same government quality control standards.

· According to Mark Erblat, Pharmacy Director and owner of Rx For You, cost savings on brand name vs. generic will vary from drug to drug and pharmacy to pharmacy but can be significant. For instance:

· Prozac brand 20mg, 100 tablets cost $280.19 and generic sells for $29.99 (Savings 89%)

· Vasotec brand 5mg, 100 tablets costs $103.59 and generic sells for $18.19 (Savings 82%)

· Zantac brand 150mg 100 tablets costs $173.39 and generic sells for $10.99 (Savings 93%)

· Zestril brand 10mg 100 tablets costs $96.29 and generic sells for $39.99 (Savings 58%)

4. Veterans Now Qualify for More Benefits.

· Recent laws have changed that grant veterans medical benefits for certain illnesses like diabetes and hypertension, provided the veteran is subject to qualifying conditions like agent orange exposure.

· See if you qualify for benefits by checking with the Veteran's Administration.

5. Cut Your Costs in Half. by Using a Pill Splitter.

· Most pharmacies should stock pill splitters. Sometimes, medications can be broken in half and save you 50%. The reason is because several pharmaceutical manufacturers price some of their medications the same for all strengths.

· Lipitor is essentially the same price for all strengths. It is possible to save as much as $100 on a one month supply of Lipitor just by getting the larger strength and cutting in half. Ask your pharmacist.

· This method may not be appropriate for all medications and could be dangerous if used with the wrong medication.

· Begin by asking your doctor or pharmacist if your medication is available in a dose double your normal dosage (ex, if you usually take a 20 mg. pill, is a 40 mg. pill available?). If it is, ask whether there would be any problems with splitting the tablets or capsules.

· Now, do a cost comparison between the two dosages. If the higher dose is less than double the cost for your regular dose then you will be saving money by having your doctor prescribe the higher dose and then splitting it. For precision pill splitters Visit: www.precisionpillsplitters.com Cost savings is typically 32% to 50%.

. Viagra is another medication that lends itself to being split in half or quarters to save 50% to 75% depending upon the dosage required. The average Viagra user who uses two doses per week can save over $400.00 per year. For information about a specially designed precision splitter for Viagra, visit www.v2pillsplitter.com

· This method is not appropriate for all medications. Check with your pharmacist. Some easily split medications include: Ambien, Aricept, Buspar, Effexor, Lipitor, Luvox, Paxil, Remeron, Risperidal, Seroquel, Serzone, Viagra, Zoloft, Zyprexa. (Ask your pharmacist about others)

6. Save by Buying a 90 vs. 30-Day Supply.

· Most pharmacies have higher savings on a longer days supply. In addition, when it comes to people who have insurance prescription coverage, there may be other savings by getting a larger day supply.

· For instance, if you have a $10 co-pay, the insurance company will let you get only a 30 days supply in general for that $10. A 90-day supply bought with out insurance may only cost you $18.

· This would be much cheaper than paying $10 per month ($30 for 90 days). It would also save you two trips to the pharmacy.

7. Ask for an Older Medication That is as Effective.

· Many pharmacists agree, that antibiotics are probably the most over prescribed, or incorrectly prescribed medications. Often, the physician will prescribe a newer antibiotic that has been promoted as more effective. What this really means is that it is considerably more expensive.

· The newer antibiotics are often no more effective than the older antibiotics. However, they are new and covered by patent protection. Therefore, the newer medication is more effective in ensuring a nice profit for the drug manufacturer for many years.

· Since many generics are made in the same factory as the brand name ones, make sure you ask your doctor for a generic antibiotic. A great generic broad- spectrum antibiotic costs 80% less than a new antibiotic. In dollars, it costs you $20 instead of $100.

8. Over-the-Counter Drugs May be as Effective as the Prescription Drug.

· Many doctors still prescribe Pepcid 20mg to their patients. A one-month supply of Pepcid 20mg cost approximately $60. Pepcid AC, over-the-counter in 10mg strength, taking double the dose costs approximately $23.

· Most prescription cold medications average $20 to $60 for a one month supply and contain the same decongestant that is available over-the-counter for less than $2.

9. Get Only a 7-day Supply of New Medication.

· If the doctor does not have samples, ask your pharmacist to give you only a one-week supply to try. It is a federal law that medicines can't be returned once they are dispensed. If you get a month's supply and can't tolerate the medicine, you have just lost that money.

10. Stop Using Drugs You No Longer Need.

· Review all your prescriptions with your doctor at each visit. You may be paying for some drugs you no longer need.

· Doctor run www.rxaminer.com provides a custom analysis of your medications to save you money. You can get a free, no obligation, Cost Screening to find out how much you can save.

· Also ask your pharmacist to review your medications in addition to your doctor. Here is why. A pharmacist's valuable services and knowledge are free. He may also find something your doctor missed.

· A lady developed a persistent cough after she had been taking a blood pressure medication for approximately 3 months. Her doctor treated her cough with antibiotics and cough syrup for 6 months. She asked her pharmacist about her cough lasting so long. The pharmacist found that a possible side effect of her new blood pressure medication was a persistent cough. Her doctor argued but changed her medicine and her cough stopped. The lady had spent over $750 in doctor's fees and medication just to treat the cough.

· A mother was giving her daughter antibiotics to treat a kidney infection. Her daughter consistently had a fever. This continued for several months. The baby's pediatrician prescribed several antibiotics unsuccessfully. After searching the literature, the pharmacist discovered that the antibiotic had a side effect of persistent low-grade fever. In the end, the mother had spent over $500 on doctor visits and prescription cost.

· Don't hesitate to ask your pharmacist questions, their advice is free and can often save you money and aggravation. Ask questions about side effects, and drug interactions.

11. Order Your Prescription Drugs by Phone.

· You can save 20%-50% by ordering prescription drugs over the phone. Bonus, you do not have to pick them up at the pharmacy.

· Make a list of your medications, including strength and number taken daily. Then list at least six pharmacies you are going to call. Don't forget about discount mail order sources too, several are listed at the end of this booklet. Then call and get prices, ask if this is their best price available. Compare the costs.

12. Pay Attention to the Quantity.

· Find out how much medication you really may need, and make sure your doctor doesn't order you more medicine than is necessary to treat your condition.

13. Ask Your Doctor for Samples at Every visit. They Usually Have Plenty.

14. Take Only Those Drugs You Really Need.

· When your doctor prescribes medication for you, understand exactly what it's meant to do and for how long. If you are prescribed two drugs for the same symptom, ask if you really need both.

15. Buy Home Test Kits.

· Kits for determining ovulation, pregnancy and colorectal cancer, can be purchased as home tests instead of paying twice as much for similar kits at your doctor's office.

16. Cross the Border.

· If you live close to either Canada or Mexico, you can buy some medications in either country for 75% off the U.S. price.

17. AARP Members are Eligible for Many Discounts, Including Mail- Order Pharmacy Discounts.

· Ask for an AARP discount.

If you have questions about these tips or your medication ask your doctor and pharmacist.

Senior Discount Card Programs *

(G) GlaxoSmithKline's The Orange Card (888) 672-6436

· Covers all GSK's drugs. Must have an annual income below $30,000 per individual or $40,000 per couple

· 30% average at participating pharmacies

(L) Eli Lilly's LillyAnswers Card (877) 795-4559

· Covers all Lilly's drugs except controlled substances. Must have an annual income below $18,000 per individual or $24,000 per couple.

· $12 Co-pay per prescription for 30-day supply.

(N) Novartis' CareCard call (866) 974-2273

· Covers select Novartis drugs. · Tier 1 must have an annual income below $18,000 per individual or $24,000 per couple. $12 Co-pay per prescription for 30-day supply.

· Tier 2 must have an annual income below $26,000 per individual or $35,000 per couple. Receive a 25% or more discount.

(P) Pfizer's The Share Card call (800) 717-6005

· Covers all Pfizer's drugs. Must have an annual income below $18,000 per individual or $24,000 per couple.

· $15 Co-pay per prescription for 30-day supply.

(T) Together Rx Card (800) 865-7211

· Over 150 select drugs from a group of manufacturers. Must have an annual income below $28,000 per individual or $38,000 per couple. (Higher in AK and HI).

· Savings of approximately 20-40% off the amount you usually pay for prescriptions and, in many cases, substantially more.

The Cost Containment Research Institute is a public interest group dedicated to providing consumers cost saving information on medical topics. http://www.institutedc.org

I will also add that both COSTCO & WALMART have much lower prices on generic drugs. Walmart charges $4.00 an Rx for many common generic drugs and Costco slashes prices on ALL their Rx drugs.

Sometimes Cheap is NOT Frugal & simple

2007-06-22T23:35:00.000-04:00

When I think of a frugal,simple lifestyle, I think not only of cheap goods and saving money; (although that certainly can be part of the lifestyle!) I also think of sustainability and quality of life.
Organic and/or locally-produced food fits that definition. Organic food is becoming affordable, as more and more people realize the health benefits of pure food. Locally produced food is good for the local economy, cuts down on preservatives (because it doesn't have to be shipped a great distance,) saves shipping-related fuel and tastes better!
With this in mind, in addition to the produce stands and farmer's and gourmet markets I've already mentioned, I'd like to mention Brookview Farms.
Brookview Farms in Manakin-Sabat in Goochland County sells local, organic,humanely-raised and slaughtered beef and chicken, as well as various produce. The friendly farmers have a market at the farm, as well as selling at the Goochland Farm Market and at Ukrops.
Brookview goods are NOT cheap, but they are very high quality.
Check them on a fine Saturday morning.
P.O. Box 126 , 854 Dover Rd., Manakin-Sabot, VA 23103
http://brookviewfarm.tripod.com/
Tel: (804)784-3131 Fax: (804)784-2697
SATURDAY PUBLIC HOURS 9 A.M. - 1 P.M.

The Staff of Life

2007-06-20T18:04:00.000-04:00

Most people eat bread (those on an Atkins or a gluten-free diet notwithstanding)
With that idea in mind, here's a list of BAKERY THRIFT STORES:
Entenmann's Bakery Outlet (next door to TAN-A Asian Market)
(804) 673-9500
6213 W Broad St., Richmond, VA
Merita Bakery Thrift Store (BTW: Trivia- Did you know Merita bread was named for a local Richmond girl?)
(804) 321-0381
3619 Mechanicsville Turnpike, Richmond, VA 23223
Pepperidge Farm, Inc.
(804) 282-7918
411 N Ridge Rd., Richmond, VA
Wonder Bread & Hostess Cake - 2 Locations
(804) 262-8611
7301 Staples Mill Rd., Richmond, VA 23228
(804) 271-8986
3806 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Richmond, VA 23234

Check sales at your local grocery. I've found some good deals on good bread at Kroger, for example.
Although they cost a tad more than the bakery thrifts, Panera Bread & Fresh Market have excellent, fresh artisan breads for reasonable prices. Many times, I feel the quality at those stores is worth the few extra pennies. On the other hand, I find Montana Gold, too expensive.
Jean Jacques and other local bakeries such as the Westhampton Pastry Shop, (5728 Patterson Ave., Richmond, VA 23226-804/282-4413) also have good breads for reasonable prices.
Check out some of the ethnic bakeries for breads and pastries!
The SALVATION ARMY thrift stores give out FREE LOAVES OF BREAD to anyone!

Grocery & Other Coupons

2007-06-19T20:52:00.000-04:00

Sometimes using coupons can save you lots of money; just be sure you are using the coupon for something you need anyway!
In the case of grocery coupons: Try to use your coupons on sales, on double-coupon days and on other discount days (such as senior discount days) to maximize their value. Check to see if using a coupon is your best deal or if buying a generic or store brand of the same item is a better deal.
Sometimes coupons can be the best deal, especially if you prefer the name-brand item.
Some places I've found coupons:

www.valpak.com
www.smartsource.com
www.coolsavings.com
In the Sunday newspaper and in mailers such as MoneyClip & Reach.
Newspaper Websites
Manufacturers and store websites.
Email newsletters from manufacturers or stores.
Back of packages & inserts in packages and on trial sizes
Coupon dispensers on store shelves and flyers in stores.
Coupon trading boxes in stores.
Sign up for your local grocery's customer card. They will send you coupons or take coupons out of your grocery purchase receipt at the checkout.
Check-out coupons at the grocery or drugstore and coupons on the back of your store receipt.
Here's a site that thoroughly covers the topic of grocery coupon savings: http://www.grocerycouponguide.com/
If you know of a great coupon source, please post in the comment section!

Discounts and Coupons, Etc.

2007-06-19T20:38:00.000-04:00

It's possible to get discounts for various reasons:

You are a senior citizen (age limit varies).
You are a student.
You are a kid under 12.
You are disabled.
You are a member of the armed forces or are a veteran.
You work in law enforcement.
You work in the medical area.
You work for the federal, state or municipal government.
From your employer.
You are a member of AARP, AAA, VACU or various other organizations.
You are a member of a certain church or temple.
You are buying in bulk or as a group.
And these are just the ones I can think of off the top of my head!
Look around, Google and find other discounts.
Please let us know by posting a comment on this blog!

Take Back Your Time Day!

2007-06-19T17:56:00.000-04:00

Part of frugal, green living is simpler living; living that is not driven by workaholism (and that includes the endless unpaid drudge work of chores and household maintenance, as well a paid jobs,) hectic scheduling of classes, teams, religious meetings, whatever...Life ain't just about money, honey ;>
How many people these days actually VACATE when they take a vacation, IF they take a vacation? How many people spend their vacation time catching up on household chores rather than traveling and visiting friends and family or going the the beach or mountains or a museum or a concert?
How many people spend that time preparing for their next work, their next class or such instead of indulging in recreation (RE-CREATION!) or a fun hobby or past time?
When, did we as a society, become such a nation of uninteresting, no-fun drudges??? WHY? What happened to the ideals and leisure of the 60's? Why have we returned to our Puritan pasts?
National Take Back Your Time Day (USA & CANADA)proposes some solutions.
Check them out!
While you are exploring this idea, also explore the idea of National Buy Nothing Day. National Buy Nothing Day proposes that we sit out the national shop-a-thon frenzy of Retail Black Friday - the day after American Thanksgiving. Sure you can get great bargains on Black Friday, IF you get to the store in the middle-of-the-night and camp out in the cold and IF you are prepared to push & shove like a bunch of football holligans for merchandise that's probably already sold out and IF you are prepared to sacrifice precious holiday time away from your family and friends. And to me, friends, THAT'S NO BARGAIN! Besides, do you really need that super-duper wide-screen plasma TV, even if it is dirt cheap? If you must participate in such a frenzy, go online for Retail Black Monday and shop from the comfort of your home.

New Fruit & Veggie Vendor on West Broad Street

2007-06-19T17:29:00.000-04:00

The MoneyClip magazine that comes in my mail (Reach is another similar mag) has a coupon good until August 3, 2007 for 10% off your total purchase at Paradise Fruit.
Paradise Fruit is a new produce vendor located at:
9014 W Broad St., Richmond, VA 23294 (a few doors from The European Deli)
804-747-7004
Hours: Sun.:10 a.m.-6 p.m., Mon.-Sat.:10 a.m.- 8 p.m.
The same MC magazine also has discount coupons for the European Deli and for several Mexican and Asian restaurants and other businesses.

Virginia Co-operative Extension Services

2007-06-19T17:19:00.000-04:00

Virginia Co-operative Extension Services programs were designed with rural folk and farmers in mind, but their education site has tons of free information on gardening, health, money management and other topics that we city slickers can also use.

Cheaper Gas in Richmond

2007-05-28T17:50:00.000-04:00

Some recent cheaper (relatively speaking) gas stations in the Richmond area:
Centerville (out West Broad Street past Rt. 288)
Short Pump
East Coast Station on West Broad just east of Gaskins Road (near the IHoP.)
Hess and WAWA on West Broad Streets.
West Broad just below Staples Mill Road
Midlothian Turnpike, at a 7-11 Citgo station about a mile below Rt.288, just behind Wendy's.
There may be other cheaper stations, notably in Southside or the East End. I've only listed prices I've personally observed.
If you've seen a cheap gas price, please feel free to contact me or to add that station in the comment area of this blog and I'll post it here on the front page!

Further afield:
If you are traveling north up I-95, a detour at the Lady Smith exit (last exit to Rt.301) might be worth your while. Several truck stops at that exit tend to have cheaper fuel prices.
If you drive up Route 1, stations just south of Fredericksburg are cheaper than usual.
And the Kangaroo Station on Rio Road in Charlottesville is cheap!

New Asian Grocery

2007-05-28T01:01:00.000-04:00

Who'd a thunk? An Asian/Latino grocery in suburban Mechanicsville, VA!
They stock all sorts of food products from all over Asia & Latin America.
Yellow Asian Foods
7500 Jackson Arch Dr., Mechanicsville, VA 23111
(Just off Rt. 360, east of the Crown gas station.)
804-427-7052

Target Shopping Strategies

2007-05-27T23:02:00.000-04:00

I'm not usually a fan of big box discount retailers but I'm a fan of Target !
(Those in the know pronounce it Tar-jhay!)
Target has fashionable clothes,electronics & home accessories at reasonable prices. Some stores have groceries & pharmacies & dollar bins.
Some useful Target bargain hunting strategies can be found at Not Made of Money
I've found that clearances are towards the back of merchandise areas & on the back end shelves.
Target.com has a listing of weekly sale merchandise, discount coupons & merchandise and sales not available at a local brick-&-mortar Target store.

'TisThe Season for Local Produce !

2007-05-27T21:44:00.000-04:00

It's almost summer & it's time for local produce!
Buying local produce is good for the local economy, usually good for your pocketbook & is a greener option than buying stuff shipped from another area. Fresh produce is yummy & a great addition to your healthy diet. Frugal, green, tasty & healthy; what's not to like?
During the colder seasons, most of these places close down except to sell Halloween & Thanksgiving pumpkins & Christmas trees.
I'm listing many, but not all local options for local produce.
I've shopped at all these markets & wouldn't hesitate to recommend them!

17th Street Farmers Market in Shockoe Bottom:
100 N. 17th St.
Richmond, Virginia 23219
804-646-0310
Thursday, May 3, 2007 through Sunday, October 28, 2007
Thursday Growers’ & Bakers’ Market: 8:30am–2pm
Saturday Growers’ & Bakers’ Market: 8:30am–2pm
Sunday Open Heirloom Market: 8:30am–2pm
Antiques, vintage & collectibles

Ashland Farmers Market:
On Duncan Street behind Town Hall (off Rt.54)
Saturdays May 5 - November 24
9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

William Byrd House Community Market:
S. Linden St & Idlewood Ave ·
Downtown Expressway, I-195 South · Exit 186 (Belvidere St) ·
Next to Grace Arents Community Garden
Free Parking - Rain or Shine.
Tuesday,3:30 to 7 pm, May through October.

Goochland Rural Market:
Grace Episcopal Church -
2955 River Rd W, Goochland, VA
(Rt.6 or Patterson Ave./River Rd. extended)
Saturday May 5th through Sept. 1st - 8 a.m. to12 p.m.
Labor Day through October 27th - 9:00am to 1:00pm

Pole Green Produce Stand
Local produce & plants at very reasonable prices!
6547 Pole Green Road (Meadowbrook Road extended), Mechanicsville, VA 23111
804-730-7732
Open April through Thanksgiving
(Weekends only April, October & November - Daily May-September)

Hanover Plant & Vegetable Farm
Local produce & plants at very reasonable prices! Has a large greenhouse.
13580 Ashland Rd
Ashland, VA 23005
804-752-2334

Jim & Robins Produce
Local produce & plants for decent prices in Henrico County
11120 Patterson Ave. Richmond, VA 23233
804-754-0484

Cheryl's Produce
Local produce & plants for decent prices
Rt 660 & Route 33(Staples Mill Rd.extended), Ashland,VA
804- 752-5846

Produce cart on Libbie Avenue just off Patterson Avenue:
During season a vendor sells fruit & vegetables at this location.
Hours: ?

Some links to listings of Virginia produce markets, wineries, pick-your-own-produce farms & food festivals:
http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/vagrown/index.shtml
http://www.virginiawines.org/wineries/index.html
http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/organic/index.shtml
www.vdacs.virginia.gov/vagrown-july/pdf/frmsmkts.pdf
http://www.vdacs.virginia.gov/news/festival.shtml

Tom Leonard's Farm Market

2007-05-27T18:03:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I shopped at Tom Leonard's Farm Market.
This market has some very good buys on produce, meats, dairy, wines,T.L.House brands and some gardening items. They're always having sales. They have free tastes of various food items such as cheese.
In the far back left corner of the market, you will find a shelf with marked down produce that is last-day-of-sale or slightly damaged produce.
This market is tucked behind Best Buy and Pier 1 off the north side of West Broad Street about six blocks east of Short Pump. T.L. has a nice webpage with some good recipes, as well as a list of the current sales.
I have two small complaints about this store:
1. It's too crowded and you are forced to move in one direction like a cattle going down a shute to slaughter.
2 The singing dogs! They are cute and kids love them but they are just too loud and hearing them repeatedly throughout a half-hour of shopping was irritating. I felt like I was shopping at Chuckie Cheese!
However, the above problems won't stop me from shopping at T.L..
Hours: Everyday - 9:00a.m.- 8:00p.m.
4150 Brookriver Drive
Glen Allen, Virginia 23060
804/364-5800

Second Debut

2007-05-05T00:35:00.000-04:00

I've not yet shopped at Second Debut, the new Goodwill in Carytown.
Their ad in Style Weekly says the store stocks fashions, home furnishing and accents.
What I don't know is if the merchandise has typically low Goodwill thrift store prices or if it is considered a 'boutique' store because of its location in expensive, trendy Carytown.
This thrift shop connoisseur is going to check it out a.s.a.p.
Please post comments if you have any opinions on the store.
Goodwill Second Debut
3114 W. Cary Street
Phone: 254-7623
HOURS: Mon.-Sat.: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sun.: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.

Some thoughts on frugality...

2007-04-24T23:48:00.000-04:00

I hear various people complaining that they have trouble making ends meet. But when I listen further, I find that these people invariably have unnecessary, and often foolish expenses that are using up their paychecks.
(Before I get rude comments: I know people have unforeseen expenses such as medical bills, car repairs or a sudden loss of income. I know some people make peanuts and any normal expense is a stretch for them. That's not the people I am writing about here.)
Do you really NEED cable or satellite TV services or if you live in an area that won't receive tv without a dish, do you need the premium service? Do you need the fanciest cellphone and cell service plan? Do you smoke? Are you driving a gas guzzler and/or high-end car when you could drive an economy vehicle or take public transit? How about that daily latte at the coffee shop?
Think about these things!
Take smoking: Smoking wrecks your health and appearance. Your medical and dental bills go up, your insurance rates rise and you will lose your looks earlier and need fancy face creams sooner than a non-smoker. That's not even counting that actual expense of smoking itself.
These days cigarettes retail for around $3.00 per pack (or a tad less if buy the bargain brand by the carton at an outlet or Costco.)
Say you smoke even one pack a day:
That's 3 x 365 or $1,095 a year up in smoke and eating up your lungs! If you smoke TWO packs a day, you spent around $2,190!!!
If you put that same amount in a high-yield savings account or invested it, you would be earning money and have a tidy sum.
When you are fretting about making ends meet, think of stopping the frivolous expenses. I'm not say ing you should be a skinflint and deny yourself every pleasure, but when you get rid of the bloated expenses, you have more room for the fun stuff and can put the money saved towards your life dreams.

New Wally World on Parham Road

2007-03-26T20:24:00.000-04:00

There's a new Walmart at North Parham and Quioccasin Roads, near Regency Square mall. It's new, spacious and clean and the company re-purposed an existing building and property. It's on a busline!
I'm of two minds about Wallyworld: On the one hand, I've read of their deplorable employee maltreatment. I don't like the fact that they run smaller, local businesses away and that they sell so much out-sourced merchandise from third-world cheapo labor and that they tend to hire illegal immigrants.
Having said that, I congratulate Walmart for bringing low-cost prescription drugs to the un and underinsured. And for initiating low cost walk-in medical clinics for the un and underinsured.
AND for providing affordable merchandise to the masses. AND for finally locating near public transportation in a near-in suburb.
'Nuf said.

Frugal Idea

2007-01-30T20:54:00.000-05:00

Part of frugal living is wise use of money.
Here is a site that helps protect consumers against Internet fraud from too good to be true deals.

http://www.lookstoogoodtobetrue.com/

Sad News

2007-01-22T20:53:00.000-05:00

The thrift store "Pennies From Heaven", that gave free or very cheap clothing and donated its proceeds to the homeless, is going out of business. They are selling all their merchandise and fixtures for a song. Please check them out before they go.
Info on PFH is in the Thrift Store post.
AND:
I was recently in Saint Mary's A Golden Opportunity Shop and they looked as if they might be trying to sell off their stock.The store was barer than normal and it looked as if no new stock was coming in.I don't know this to be a fact but it was the feeling I got from the feel of the shop.
I do know their unsold merchandise went to Pennies From Heaven.

Half-Off Richmond

2007-01-22T20:48:00.000-05:00

Half-Off Richmond and TV 8-WRIC offer half-off and two-for-one deals to various Richmond merchants, events and restaurants,etc. The deals change weekly and they have 'sales' on unused deals. Check it out at the link below:
http://halfoffrichmond.com/intro.php

New Ethnic Grocery & BAkery

2007-01-22T20:34:00.000-05:00

There's a new ethnic grocery and bakery in the WestEnd.
Bakery Art is an Armenian bakery and grocery. I've not yet patronized this store, but the buzz is that they bake great Armenian pizza, which is more of an incredibly spiced thin gyro than a pizza.
I'll post the phone number and business hours as soon as I learn them.
Bakery Art
5716 Patterson Avenue, 23226

Cheap ethnic food

2006-10-17T18:53:00.000-04:00

You can get certain foods much cheaper at ethnic groceries than at your local grocery or discount store. (An exception to this is that sometimes Big!Lots and Dollar General have discount Hispanic and/or Asian foods.) You can also find foods at the ethnic groceries that you probably will never find in a regular grocery, especially outside of sophisticated large cities.

~One the best Asian stores I've shopped is TAN-A Supermarket at Horsepen and West Broad Streets. TAN-A carries exotic produce, teas, sauces, meats and seafoods, frozen goods and some kitchenware and sundries for very good prices.
Avoid TAN-A on Sundays! Sunday is a mob scene at TAN-A.
*TAN-A
6221 W. Broad St.
Richmond, VA 23230
285-3569

~A near-by store is Far East Market, which is on Rigsby Road, just off Horsepen Road, one block from West Broad Street. At Far East, You can get fresh tofu for four cakes for $1.25 or a reusable plastic tub of 10 cakes for $3.25. What a bargain! Even on sale, fresh tofu rarely sells for less than $1.00 a cake! Tofu is healthy food and at this price, is dirt cheap healthy food!
*Far East
6317 Rigsby Rd
Richmond, VA 23226
288-9518

~There are a couple of other Asian markets, several restaurants, Pho shops and an Asian bakery in that neighborhood.
*Tam Phat Market
6316 Horsepen Road, Richmond, VA 23226
282-1144
*Asian & Oriental Food Store
6322 Rigsby Road, Richmond, VA 23226
282-6677

Shop around at your local Asian markets. Not every store carries the same merchandise and prices for similar items can vary store-to-store in the same neighborhood.

~With the influx of immigrants (legal and illegal) from Latin America, Hispanic markets or mercados are popping up all over Virginia. Nowadays you can buy standard Latino products such as tortillas and masa harina at your local grocery cheaper than at the Latino specialty stores, but the Latino stores carry many products that the big chains will probably never carry.

The largest one that I've shopped, Tu Rincon Latin, is on West Broad Street about one block east of Horsepen Road. The mercado carries Hispanic foods, housewares and deli items. Shop here for plaintains, Mexican chocolate, queso blanco and other Latin goodies.
*TU Rincon Latino
6003 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23230
(804) 285-5850

Here are three tiny bodegas that sell some tasty treats:
*Bodega Latina
9020 Quioccasin Road, Richmond, VA 23229
(741-5800
*Bodega Latina
12343 Gayton, Richmond, VA 23238
523-4995
*Bodega Latina Llc
9042 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23294
747-0060

~The Richmond Farmer's Market sponsors a monthly 'Mercado' several months a year. The Saturday night Mercado features Latin music, dancing, foods, groceries and hand-crafts.

~Other available ethnic markets are Indian/Pakistani, Middle Eastern,African and Russian. Although I've not patronized many of the stores, Southside is full of Latin markets and boasts a couple of Asian markets as well.

~The European Deli on West Broad Street and features a deli and Russian and other Eastern European canned and baked goods, meats, cheeses, beers and hand-crafts.
*Royal Europe Delicatessen
9026 West Broad St
Richmond, VA
346-8878

~Three Middle-Eastern stores come to mind:

Danny's Grill is a small deli and carry-out with canned and deli counter foods. Very inexpensive & the deli food is scrumptious.
*Dannys Grill
8905 Patterson Ave
Richmond, VA
741-5761

2M is a tiny shop with friendly service, great food and canned goods. They have a frequent customer and customer referral discount program!
*2M Mediterranean Market & Deli
Dumbarton Square Shopping Center
7103 Staples Mill Rd
Richmond, VA 23228
262-9950

I haven't been to MB&D since its re-opening on Quioccasin Road but previous visits found superb food and baked goods. Best variety of Mediterranean foods in the area. They have a drive-thru window. The website is well-designed and includes some great recipes.
*Mediterranean Bakery & Deli
9004 Quioccasin Rd.
Richmond, VA
754-8895
www.mediterraneanbakeryanddeli.net

~ A selection of Indian/Pakistani stores:

*India Foods & Flavor Inc
2745 Hungary Spring Road, Richmond, VA 23294
(804) 346-8678

*Indo Pak Grocery Store
8101 West Broad Street, Richmond, VA 23294
346-4692

*Shreeji Supermarket
2757 Hungary Spring, Richmond, VA 23294
747-7454

*Shreenali Spices
8410 Staples Mill Road, Richmond, VA 23228
(804) 266-4088 ngary Spring, Richmond, VA 23294

~An African market and variety store near VCU:
*African House
902 W Grace St
Richmond, VA 23220
355-6315

Halal Market on North Meadow Street at West Broad Street.
I've only seen this market from the bus and don't know the days or hours or phone/exact address, but I can safely assume the market is closed on Friday evenings through Saturday. A Halal market is a Muslim market that has been blessed by an Imam/cleric and is similar in concept to a Jewish Kosher market.

Various discounts

2006-10-11T00:02:00.000-04:00

Did you know that if you are a senior citizen (beginning age limit varies,) a member of the military or law enforcement, a state or federal employee or various other catagories, you may qualify for discounts and special rates at businesses?
Many businesses give AARP and/or AAA discounts.
For example, Kroger grocers gives a 5% discount to people over 55 on Tuesdays.
Local Goodwills give an over 55 discount on Sundays.
St. Mary's Golden Opportunity Shop gives an over 55 discount on Mondays.

NOTICE: GOODWILL discontinued all of its employee, senior, student, handicapped and military discounts as of August, 2006. Seems all the discounts were cutting into the profits that pay for its programs that benefit disabled and disadvantaged people. Since I only know one person besides me who knew of the discounts, I figure Goodwill employees must have been buying large quantities on discount or else like the Public Library sales, dealers come in on discount days and buy up quantites to resell on EBAY or in their second hand shops. What a shame. A few greedy sorts spoil the extra discounts for everyone. But since Goodwill is generally pretty cheap anyway, I will continue to patronize them.
And they do a good service for the community, so I hope discontinuing the extra discounts really does make a substantial difference in their bottom line.

Craigs List

2006-10-10T23:47:00.000-04:00

Sell, trade, barter or give away your stuff for free!
Meet people through personal ads!
Advertise your business!
Run or reply to a classified employment ad!
Promote community events! Find missing persons!
ALL FOR FREE!
Where?

CRAIGS LIST!!!

COSTCO

2006-10-10T23:24:00.000-04:00

Costco (and Sam's Club and BJ's) is a members-only discount store that has everything from food to eyewear to cars and furniture and electronics. Some Costco's have gas stations.
Most of Costco's merchandise is sold in large lots.
You can get great deals at Costco if you comparision shop and can use the large quantities.
One idea is to split a membership and split quantities of merchandise.
Some things I've found that are great Costco deals:
~ limes and lemons - about $5.00-$6.00 a 5 pound bag. Always expensive at the grocery - but watch out! They can spoil before you use them up!
~ butter - 4 onepound boxes for $6.79. Cheapest I've seen outside of the very occasional sale at the grocery.
~ milk - 1 gallon around $2.20 -
Those are just the deals that come to mind immediately.
Find the nearest Costco:

http://www.costco.com/Warehouse/Locator.aspx

Two more frugal places to shop

2006-10-10T23:09:00.000-04:00

Big!Lots and Dollar General Store can yield some very good deals.

Dollar General has deals in everyday canned and boxed foodstuffs and for personal and laundry cleaning products,especially in their own Dollar General brand. They have periodic sales and clearance sales on seasonal merchandise.
To find the nearest Dollar General store go to:

http://www.dollargeneral.com/storelocator/default.aspx

Big!Lots has overstock and returned and seconds products.
They have good deals in foodstuffs (sometimes in foreign and exotic or natural foods!) and beverages and in personal and laundry products.
They also carry furniture, home decor, pet, kids, school and gardening products and clothing.
Those products can be very good values or they can be over-priced junk. Shop carefully!
Big!Lots discounts seasonal products at the end of the season.
Find the nearest Big!Lots:

http://www.biglots.com/store_locator_adv.aspx

A new market in town!

2006-08-24T00:02:00.000-04:00

There's a new market in town called Fresh Market.
It's not always the cheapest, but it has very high quality organic, gourmet and deli type foods and a bakery to die for!
Some of the prices on organics are very competitive and are lower than health food stores and grocieries.
Another thing I like about Fresh Market is that they re-used and remodeled an existing building in an established neighborhood strip mall and are on a busline! The market is located in the old Saxon Shoes (which, shame on Saxon Shoes, relocated near Short Pump Towne Center) building on North Parham Road.
That's good environmental practice.

http://www.thefreshmarket.com/index.htm
1527 N. Parham Road, Richmond, VA 23229
804/282.3823
Hours :
Mon-Sat: 9am-9pm
Sun: 10am-8pm

Just for fun!

2006-05-13T01:22:00.000-04:00

Here's a cool site that features art found at thrift stores. Much of the art is tacky and some is down-right bizarre. Some of it looks to be outsider &/or folk art. Some is student or Sunday painter work. Next time you go thrifting, consider the art you find with a new eye.
Your tacky masterpiece might belong in the American Museum of Visionary Art !

A Handy Site to Help Simplify Your Site

2006-05-13T01:02:00.000-04:00

In some of my articles I have included site link URLs that are very long. For better site appearance & typing simplification, I went to TINYURL to shorten my URL links. Saves your vision, time & some key strokes! And it's free!

Consignment Stores

2006-05-13T00:12:00.000-04:00

Consignment stores accept used goods in excellent, like-new condition that are in-style & in-season. Some stores specialize in consigning vintage &/or antique items. There are 'niche' consignment shops for brides, teens, kids,expectant mothers, plus size,etc. I am covering only clothing consignment shops that I have personally inspected, but there are more clothing shops & some shops do consign furniture, baby items, home accessories & bric-a-brac.
If you are looking for quality clothing at decent prices for work or that special event, a consignment might provide just what you are seeking.
In addition to buying items, you can consign items & make some money from your used clothing. Check with the shops for their guidelines on consignment.

HALL TREE - 12 S. Thompson St. 358-9985
Hall Tree is an upscale consignment boutique featuring high-end & designer clothing.
They are expensive but reduce seasonally.
My problem with the Hall Tree is this: the proprietors & sales clerks are snobs. If you're not one of their buddies, one of their 'kind' of people (basically, the ladies who lunch), you'll receive no decent customer service. You'll be treated as if you intend to shoplift from or rob the place. Despite the value & quality of the merchandise, I don't recommend you shop there because I don't like to see folks spending their money at places that mistreat the majority of their customers.

PLATO'S CLOSET - 419 N Ridge Rd., 282-0725
Teen clothing. Has sections for guys & gals & for plus-size teens. Mostly big name brands like Gap, H&M, Abercrombie & Fitch, Express, etc.

BUTTERFLY - 5726 Patterson Ave. # B, 288-4700
Excellent quality. Has the customer service Hall Tree lacks. Reduces regularly 25-75%. Lowest prices can be real bargains.

KATHI'S KLOSET - 1551 N Parham Rd. 282-1312
Quality,non-frumpy women's 14+ plus-size clothing & accessories. Some larger sized shoes. Friendly service & prices are reduced regularly. Close-out rack at the back of the store is thrift-store cheap.

Here is a link to a list of other local consignment shops:
http://tinyurl.com/o2dr

Would I be frugal & green if I didn't mention Freecyle?

2006-05-04T00:16:00.000-04:00

Nope!
Freecycle is a free , international online service that wants to keep excess stuff out of landfills. You offer your unwanted items to others for free and people respond to your offer via email. You can also request items. Freecycle has offers and requests for just about anything you could imagine.
I've seen a person with goats looking for free kudzu!
Join the local Freecycle on Yahoo Groups
and get in on the fun! Freecycle also has a Freecycle Community group that features discussions and other things not allowed on the actual Freecycle group site.
Once a year, Freecycle holds a picnic and swap.
My only caveats with Freecycle is that there are some rude moochers that frequent the site 24/7 looking from freebies to resell for profit on Ebay. If you have something of value that you feel such a moocher might grab, my advice is to either sell itself yourself or to give the item to charity. My other problem is the folks that just seem to do nothing but park their high-speed connections on Freecycle and reach out a grab everything before the rest can have a chance to get an item.
Oh, and then there are the folks that post outrageous wish lists for freebies:large appliances, houses, cars...some idiot even posted a request for a free Porsche! Even used and in bad condition, that is a $25,000 car! Get real!
The above rotten apples not withstanding, Freecycle provides a valuable & worthy service & has mostly good-hearted people posting. I got a wonderful cat from a Freecycler!

My comments on the thrift shop list

2006-05-03T22:03:00.000-04:00

I've visited most of the thrift shops in my second post on this blog. This post is a commentary on those shops; merchandise type, quality & variety, prices & quality of customer service & who the thrift shop profits benefit.

Boaz & Ruth_ I've not yet been to B&R but I understand it carries mostly household furnishings & accessories. The profits benefit B&R, which is a Christian outreach of successful business women mentoring their disadvantaged sisters. The 'sisters' run the store as part of the mentoring process. It's in a rough but slowly gentrifying neighborhood. Near a busline.
Clothes Rack I and II: I've not yet visited CRII. CRI is a Carytown shop run by the Junior League. Clothes tend to be expensive. It is a good shop to find preppy style clothes & work/interview clothes in good condition, in smaller sizes(2-10 are abundant!.) The best deals are in household goods. Customer service is usually good & you pay by check without a hassle.
Near a busline.
Diversity Thrift - This store is HUGE! It's in an old warehouse in an out-of-the-way commercial district. Customer service is polite. Prices are good & reduced regularly. Best selection of used computers & electronics & you get a 30-day return & money-back guarantee on those goods. Some vintage & bric-a-brac items tend to be over-priced. You pay by check without a hassle. Benefits ROSMY. Not near a busline.
Family Thrift & Fantastic Thrift - These stores used to benefit Grace House but I am not sure who benefits now. Both stores are too crowded & lack decent parking space. Huge variety of goods, prices are good on non-premium items & are reduced regularly, but pricing can be arbitrary & premium (boutique) goods can carry premium, antique store prices. You must pay for boutique items in the boutique & non-boutique items at the front check-out, so if you buy items from both areas, you have to check out twice. THAT is ridiculous and unneeded in one small, over-crowded store. Service can be (but is not always) very rude. You can not pay by check and you must check bags at the door. Near a busline.
a Golden Opportunity - This store benefits the St. Mary's Hospital uninsured patient fund. Merchandise quality is high. Very nice clothes! Good merchandise displays. Prices are high at first but often worth it. They are reduced regularly. Bric-a-brac tends to be too expensive. Customer service is decent & you can pay by check. Near a not very-frequent and not on weekends busline.
Goodwill - Benefits Goodwill Industries, which trains and hires disabled individuals. I've only been to a few of the Goodwills. All will accept checks.
1. Fountain Square _ Good variety in clothes, decent prices, okay customer service.
2. Southside Midlothian _ same as above
3. Ashland _Same as above. Often has a decent furniture selection and many Target overstock items.
4. Warehouse_ Items that didn't sell at the original stores. Clothes & linens are unsorted & are in bins & are sold by the pound. Lots of electronics & books. Open only on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.
5. Boutique store_This store started out okay but became way over-priced in just a short time. If you are looking for clothing bargains, skip this store & go across the street to Burlington Coat Factory for new, brand-name clothing and accessories at bargain prices.
Clothes at the Goodwill Boutique are not always 'boutique' level, which to me, means good designer or vintage clothing. Clothes & shoes & accesories only.
Some Goodwills are on not very good buslines. Others are are not on any busline.
6.HfH Restore - New and used home improvement & construction items at bargain prices to benefit Habitat for Humanity.
Near a busline. It's in a very rough neighborhood, so be careful!
7. For the Love of Jesus & FTLOJ East. I"ve not yet been to FTLOJ East. The Southside FTLOJ is a HUGE store. Books are set up in bookstore-type displays according to category & with easy chairs so you can sit & browse the reading material. Prices tend to be low but some bric-a-brac is over-priced. Most clothing is $1.00. Customer service is polite. The store is in a rough neighborhood, but the guys that work there will escort you to your car if you ask! Benefits the Rock Christian drug & alcohol rehab programs & various low income Christian community services. Near a not very good busline.
8. Massey Cancer Center Shop -A tiny shop with odd hours in a far suburban strip mall. For a tiny shop, this place has great variety, good quality & good prices! The women's clothing tends to small sizes. I got a large, great condition, almost new TV for $20.00 at MCVMCC. Good customer service. They accept checks but not debit or credit cards. The hours are Wednesday-Saturday-10am-3pm. The shop's profits benefit MCV's Massey Cancer Center. Not on or near any busline.
9. Pennies for Heaven - a dusty shop in downtown Richmond. Very cheap prices with frequent reductions. Gets unsold merchandise from a Golden Opportunity as well as other donations. Benefits the homeless. Will give free or very cheap merchandise to homeless and destitute individuals. Odd hours and is sometimes not open on stated hours. Most buslines pass this store.
10.Salvation Army - I've mostly shopped at the central location. Good variety,decent prices and polite service. Free loaves of bread, no purchase necessary! Not on a busline but within walking distance of a not-very-frequent bus.
11. Superflea _I've not shopped here, but I'm told it has a wide variety of vendors & merchandise with widely varied pricing. On a busline.
This is a for-profit venture and the proceeds benefit the sellers.
12. Thrifty Quaker - A tiny corner shop in a Midlothian strip mall. Great prices that are regularly reduced. Outstanding customer service. They serve free coffee and lemonade! Profits benefit small. local charities that don't tend to get much other funding or government support. Unsold items are donated to other charities, including some individuals who help the poor & homeless.
Not on a busline but the express for John Tyler Community College passes the area.

My personal recommendations:
-If you want great variety go for Fantastic, Family and Diversity Thrifts or any Goodwill or Salvation Army.
-If you want quality clothing for work or formal or semi-formal occasions, go to Clothes Rack, a Golden Opportunity or MCVCC.
-If you want great bargains, shop MCVCC, Thrifty Quaker, Diversity, Pennies from Heaven, Goodwill Warehouse or For the Love of Jesus.
-If you want electronics, Diversity is the best store. Fantastic & Family carry a good selection but with no guarantees.
-If you want to support some great LOCAL charities, shop at Diversity,AGO, FTLOJ, TQ,PFH & B&R.
-If you need building and home restoration supplies, check out ReStore.
-If you want to avoid being ripped off, avoid Goodwill Boutique and the boutiques inside Fantastic and Family Thrifts. They are very expensive & the merchandise is usually not worth the price. Definitely not THRIFT stores!
-For the all around best attitude & service & heart for charity, Thrifty Quaker is your store!

Please visit my other blog.

2006-05-03T01:11:00.000-04:00

My original blog features my digital graphic design, some links and some uplifting quotes.
My blog's digital design contains some holiday designs, some of my non-digital art scanned onto .jpegs and my humorous CANU ? series that features Verizon Guy in many different and unusual situations.

A Frugal Place to Shop

2006-05-03T00:46:00.000-04:00

I don't usually think of a dollar store as a place to buy frozen & cold foods, but the Dollar Tree at 9780 West Broad Street - (965-0757)
(West Broad Street just below Gaskins Road - north side of Broad)
has lots of frozen & cold foods! Go to the cases in the back of the store & find frozen chicken, fish, veggies & more. In the cold case area, find cheese, milk, eggs & more!
All for a dollar a package! What a bargain!

NEWS FLASH !!! ~ The Dollar Tree at 8920 Patterson Ave, Richmond, VA - (740-4670)
now has frozen & cold foods!
The store manager said most Dollar Trees will be getting cold & frozen foods soon. Look for it at the store nearest you!

Some great Richmond area thrift stores

2006-05-02T22:49:00.000-04:00

I love thrifting. It's a passion for me!
There are always treasures to be found for bargain prices.
I am saving money and recycling used items.
In most cases,when I shop at thrifts, I am also contributing to charity.

A list of some of the best Richmond thrift shops:

Boaz & Ruth Incorporated - furniture & household items
3030 Meadowbridge Rd. 23222 329-4900
Clothes Rack -
2618 West Cary St. 23220 358-4693
Clothes Rack II -
6780 Forest Hill Ave. 23225 323-6270
Diversity Thrift -
1407 Sherwood Ave. 23220 353-8890
Family Thrift Center -
5432 Midlothian Turnpike 231-1737
Fantastic Thrift -
1914 W. Main St . 358-7164
a Golden Opportunity of St.Mary's BonSecours Hospital-
8400 West Broad St. 23294 217-8941
Goodwill Industries :
Auction & warehouse - 6301 Midlothian Turnpike 521-4962
(Sells goods by the pound & is open only on Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday - 9a.m-6p.m.)
Boutique -6202 West Broad St. 23230 285-0571
Brookhill Azalea - 5270 Chamberlayne Rd. 23227 261-0091
Fountain Square - 8018 W. Broad St. 23294 565-6780
Midlothian Crossing Superstore- 8535 Midlothian Turnpike, 23235 320-6733
Southside Plaza- 4644 E. Belt Boulevard, 23224 230-4935
Ashland - Dow Gil & Route 1, Ashland, VA 23005 798-3871
Colonial Heights - 24 Pickwick Avenue, Colonial Heights, VA 23834 520-7122
Habitat for Humanity Restore - Building and restoration supplies
901 Roane St. 23222 228-1305
Love of Jesus Thrift Store -
5503 Midlothian Turnpike 230-4144
LOJTS East -5158 Nine Mile Rd. 737-9494
MCV Massey Cancer Thrift Shop -
1118 Westbriar Dr. 23233 741-1118
Pennies for Heaven Thrift Shop -
2 E Broad St. 649-0097
Salvation Army:
Central store - 2601 Hermitage Rd. 23220 359-0269
(Gives away free loaves of bread! No purchase necessary!)
Chesterfield -10364 Midlothian Turnpike 23235
South Side -441 E. Belt Boulevard 230-7140
Super Flea -
5501 Midlothian Turnpike 231-6687
The Thrifty Quaker -
Midlothian Station Shopping Center 794-7158

~ Here are a few more shops.
I've not visited these shops & am not sure if any are still in business.
I've provided phone numbers, so call before you go for exact locations & hours. ~

A-1 THRIFT STORE - 321-5530 RICHMOND, VA 23222
AMVETS - 231-7150 RICHMOND, VA 23225
ARC THRIFT SHOP - 329-8500 RICHMOND, VA 23227
BARGAIN CONNECTION - 233-7129 RICHMOND, VA 23225
DAV THRIFT STORE - 804-526-8660 COLONIAL HEIGHTS, VA
ELEANOR'S THRIFT SHOP - 355-9951 RICHMOND, VA 23220
GOOD SAMARITAN RUMMAGE HSE - 232-7228 RICHMOND, VA 23225
MC ADOOS' VINTAGE THRIFT - 262-9021 RICHMOND, VA 23228
NEW LIFE THRIFT CENTER - 276-9364 RICHMOND, VA 23224
PRINCE & PAUPER - 213-0068 RICHMOND, VA 23220
TRUST ME - 737-4969 RICHMOND, VA 23223

~ Check this link for other shops & for shops further afield! ~
http://tinyurl.com/mampb

Find cheaper gas in Richmond.

2006-05-02T22:23:00.000-04:00

These days gas prices are through the roof!
Here's a link to help you find the
cheapest (relatively speaking) gas prices in our area.

http://www.richmondgasprices.com/

Hi frugal friends!

2006-05-02T00:53:00.000-04:00

This blog is going to be all about living frugally and simply in the Richmond, VA area.
While I may add some information about other areas, the blog will be mostly about Richmond area thrifty living.
In these days of $oaring ga$ price$ and a rapidly ri$ing co$t of general living, frugality makes more $en$e that ever.
I'm going to propose ways to get more bang for your buck.
But I'm also an advocate of simple and green living, so I hope to have many ideas that are not just about saving money but also about saving time, reducing stress and protecting the environment. I'll have lots of links.
Come join me in my quest for a frugal & simple, yet more abundant life!