Full Of Passion

Last Fall I had the privilege to listen to  Sandra Hanna, co-founder and CEO of Smartcookies.com speak at a P & G mom event. Sandra was full of passion and shared her amazing story and money-saving journey. I am honored and excited to share with my readers some as of Sandra’s tips to get back on the money-management train after a busy season of spending.

Free Outdoor Activities

If you’re willing to layer up, the winter months may provide the most fun you and your family can have outside, without putting a dent in your budget. Check your local community centers for information on ice-skating, sledding, or winter festivals in your city. You’ll likely find some of the most fun and beautiful festivals and events that your city has to offer. Or, stick even closer to home and get the neighborhood kids together for a snowman parade. The kids build snowmen in wagons, and then parade them around the neighborhood.

Winter Workouts

There is no need to follow the crowd or the trail of wasted money to the gym this time of year. If you’re willing to take your workout outside, a brisk winter run, walk or snowshoe could be the most refreshing and effective workout you do all year. Best of all, heading outside is completely free. In the winter months, I get a group of Moms together and we all share our winter workout gear and work out playlists. So we’re all geared up, motivated and ready to head outside! With all of the money we save, we treat ourselves to a hot latte afterwards at our favorite café.

Coldwater Wash

In the winter months, one of the biggest strains on your budget can be your utility bill, but if you’re willing to embrace the cold when doing laundry, you can save a ton. Using cold water and a detergent like Tide Coldwater, which is specially formulated to clean in cold water conditions. With every 2.95L bottle of Tide Coldwater and a cold water wash, you can save up to $7 on your energy bill. Considering the number of loads you do a week – that adds up!

Winter Staycation

If you and your family are thinking of escaping the cold and heading somewhere hot  in the coming months, you may be surprised to know how fun and inexpensive a getaway close to home could be. Sure, it might be chilly this time of year, but some of your city’s most popular hotels, and family attractions maybe discounted heavily at this time of year. Call or e-mail your local visitors bureau, explain that you’re a local looking for a great deal for your family. You may be surprised to find extra discounts at local hotels and restaurants because you’re a local!

Thanks to Sandra from Smart Cookies for share your winter money saving tips! 

Whats your money-saving tip your most proud of?

Thanks for reading In R Dream!

Disclosure: I am a P&Gmom.As part of my affiliation with this group I receive products and special access to P&G events and opportunities.