The Art of Frugality

Honey Honey

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 15:48:00 +0000

Recently I was trolling around looking to see if honey does all it’s touted to do for the face. Then I discovered a really delightful DIY mask on ehow.com. The best part? It uses everyday ingredients you have in the house.

Honey Mask
Ingredients
1 T honey
1 t olive oil
Egg yolk

Mix the honey and olive oil together, then add yolk.
Mix until creamy
Apply warm washcloth to your face to open up the pores. Apply mask and let sit for 20 minutes, rinse with warm water followed by a splash of cold water.

According to ehow honey kills germs, reduces swelling and inflammation. The olive oil is used to moisturize the skin without the greasy film other heavy oils can leave behind while the egg yolk is used to remove oil, dirt and the resulting greasy shine from your face. If your feeling particularly harried, add cucumber slices to the eyes to reduce puffiness.

Sometimes I really love being a recessionista.

MIA

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Mon, 22 Sep 2008 19:11:00 +0000

My apologies for my 2 week absence. Hopefully I'll prepare some worthy content for you, in teh meantime here is an excellent Financial Toolbox article from the people at Kiplinger: click here.

Rich Dad...Stupid Dad?

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 16:09:00 +0000

Ok, to be fair, I've never read Robert Kiyosaki's books (I know, half of America has..I just never got around to it). The more I hear about the guy the more I really don't like him or his teaching principles. This is a guy who claims the way to make money is through debt?? Granted it's all in building your real estate empire but how relevant is this today given the whole Frannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Bear Sterns dibacle?

Most of the reputable personal finance bloggers out there recognize Kiosaki as little more than a guy who can write a pretty word or too with no real sound financial basis. Take for example this great article calle Let's Read Some of Robert Kiyosaki's Drivel at allfinancialmatters.com. The author dissects an article by Kiosaki which claims that mutual funds are no better than playing the lottery. Someone...please explain.

I guess the issue with Kiyosaki is his "win big," "get rich quick" attitude. It's off putting for those who know the road to riches is paid in patience, steady investing and common sense not in finding "the next big thing." Though I do believe risk is a big part in getting pay offs I'd much rather take caluclated risks and follow the advice of someone like Andrew Tobias then take out 70,000 to buy an apartment complex a la Kiyosaki advice. call me crazy....

If you're tempted by the promise of Kiyosaki just check out John Reed's Analysis.

I Have Found Heaven and It Is Maria Badescu

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 17:47:00 +0000

So you all know how much I love skincare. I live for this stuff. I'm espcially a huge fan of masks, but at an average of 40 smackeroonies a pop it get s a bit expensive. That is until I found Mario Badescu. Who is he? Mario Badescu has been known for personalized skin care treatments and products. Products and services have been proven to help those suffering from acne, rosacea, aging and other skin problems. He owns a salon in NYC and is known amongst the stars.

Alright, alright enough promoting and let's get to what you all want to know. Is he affordable?? Well in terms of his services, I wouldn't know nor would I fly all the way to NYC to find otu (even I have my limits). However, I have ordered many of his products and can I just say that they are GOOD. Seriously. I was shocked at how gentle they were and how the products that touted a "get glowing skin" braggadocio actually got my skin glowing. What was even more shocking? The surprising costs. Here are some of my favorite products, what I think and how much they are gonna cost you.

Drying Mask- 2 oz, $18.00 This stuff smells awful, I'm pretty sure it has to do with the Colloidal Sulfur based formula. This mask also does exactly what it says: dries existing pimples and oil and helps clarify problematic skin. Soothing Calamine makes this mask safe and gentle for most skin types. Because of it's thick pudding-like consistency a little bit goes a long way.

Drying Lotion- 1 oz, $17.00 Made with Calamine and Salicylic Acid this stuff is pretty intense. You dot it on whiteheads and overnight BAM they are gone! Ok, granted it actually took my unsighlty whiteheads more than overnight to disappear but in 72 hours my breakouts were contained. Use sparingly because this stuff can really dry you out. I bought one 2 months ago and am just now running a bit low. But then...I also used it every night.

Healing and Soothing Mask- 2 oz, $20.00 This mask calms red, irritated skin. I definitely noticed a glow after using it. I love this because it is gentle and cream-based so it doesn't get hard and crackly. Leaves skin nice and soft!

The best part? Each order comes with a bevy of free samples so you can try out some great products of theirs! Each sample has about 4-6 applications worth.

Beddy Bye

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 17:28:00 +0000

Have you looked at the price of buying a new bed? Golly gosh, I had no idea these things cost so much! Luckily for you I researched a bit and found some creative ways to make a bed for less. Without further ado, here are some instructions on making a frame from myfamilylovesit.com

Materials:

2 x 4 x 96 - 10 pieces ($2.11 ea)
2 x 10 x 8 - 6 pieces ($7.99 ea)
3/4 x 49 x 97 MDF - 2 pieces ($22.99)
deck screws
wood glue (optional)

Tools: (you can always borrow if you don't have these)

miter saw
circular saw
power drill/driver

Step 1:
Using the 2×10s create a base that resembles this:

To determine the dimensions add about 1 inch to the height and width of the mattress. Then subtract 12 inches from each dimension to give the inset to protect toes.

For example a standard King size mattress is 80 x 76. The bottom frame would be 69 x 65. There is a lot of room for adjustment ther since you never see this layer. The important thing is that your frame is level.All lumber was screwed together using some old 2 1/2″ deck screws. Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting and used a little wood glue to create a strong bond.

Step 2:

Use scrap pieces of 2×10 to create blocking:

Make sure to offset them like in the picture; so you are able to screw in from both sides. No exact science here, just make sure they fit tightly in the spaces

Step 3:

Now you're ready for the top layer of the platform. Using the 2×4s. follow the same strategy, but this layer will be slightly larger than the mattress.

Step 4:

Next place the top layer on top of the bottom and center it. Toenail the top layer into the bottom at all intersections with the deck screws (remember to drill those pilot holes first).

Step 5:

The last step was attaching the mdf to the top. You may want to have these pre-cut at a place like Lowes. Their sheet cutter is more accurate and can save time. Attach these with 2 inch deck screws about every 12-16 inches.

giving it to the man

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 18:33:00 +0000

..and now for something completely different: a very special men's edition of Thrifty Find Thursdays. Remember boys: simplicity is key. And for godssake stay away from striped polos.

Mossimo® Western Shirt, Target $21.99
Levi's® Red Tab™ 527™ Low Rise Jeans, Kohls $34.99
Airwalk Lion Crest Twin Gore, Payless Shoe Source $25.99

Great for following the girlfriend around for a shopping trip; add a skinny tie and voila you're ready for a night on the town. Gotta love outfits that pull double duty.

Almost Frugal

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 21:23:00 +0000

Head on over to Almost Frugal to check out the Festival of Frugality#141!

Workin' 9-5

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 17:54:00 +0000

Sheryl Bangle Shop Suey Boutique, $16.00

Isaac Mizrahi Sateen Slim Skirt Target, $24.99

Ruffle Elegance Woven Shirt Forever 21, $19.80

Almond Rattan Handbag Forever 21, $18.80

Kardin Dress Pump Payless Shoe Source, $24.99

15 Minutes Got Me $200

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Wed, 27 Aug 2008 18:05:00 +0000

How? I followed the advice that every frugalist recommends and called my insurance company. I was involved in an accident which was my fault back in September (the day my obsession for finding the best curry in San Diego became my burden), and that upped my insurance from $670 every 6 months to a whopping $1025. Today I started thinking: ok so yes I was at fault in an accident...but what would other insurance companies charge me? Furthermore, what would my insurance quote me at as a new customer? So I used a pseudonym and wham! bam! thank you ma'm (ooer) I saw a nice little quote for $800.

So I called my insurance company and asked if there were any discounts I could take advantage of. I briefly mentioned that I had seen quotes for less at other companies (even with factoring in my accident) and the incredibly nice and helpful rep spent some time with me. So how did they lower my bill? A more accurate adjustment of teh estimated annual miles I drive (this alone reduced my policy by 100). She was ready to send me off when I asked if there were more discounts that could be applied since it was still higher than what I had seen. She questioned me about my profession and since I am college educated and considered a "professional" I received an even greater discount to the tune of $782.00 per month- a $238.76 savings (that they will refund to me for the payment I just made).

Wowza was that the most profitable 15 minutes I ever spent...

Secrets to Getting a Killer Wardrobe

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 18:48:00 +0000

I wore a dress a while back, a dress that never fails to get compliments, and I realized it was probably the best 80 bucks I spent. I actually remember buying the dress because I was 18, at the end of my senior year and $80.00 for a kid with no job was a load. But here, 5 years later I still get a lot of use out of the thing, and surprisingly it hasn't faded or become worn at all. Then i think about the $150.00 I plunked down 2 years ago for a Bebe dress. I think I wore it all of twice before getting uproariously drunk one night and vomiting all over it. I later sold it on ebay for 60 bucks (ummm I dry cleaned it first).

Anyhoodle, these little anecdotes makes me realize the value in buying something you truly, truly love versus buying what's hip and something you haven't given a lot of thought to. I think back on some of my favorite pieces and I have a skirt from the Gap that was around 50 bucks from when I was 18 (actually...I'm wearing it right now), a hat I bought two years ago for a forgotten sum, a coupel pairs of jeans that are over 2 years old bought for about 130 each and a brocade coat I splurged on for a few hundred when I was 19.

My favorite pieces are not necessarily pieces that cost a lot of money (though at the time they did seem like hefty financial sacrifices), but rather they are ones I wear time and time again. They are my go-tos for when I have nothing to wear. They are the pieces that sit silently in my closet comfortably at ease knowing that when I come to clean the closet out, they will be left there untouched. Most importantly they are pieces that never grow dated or old.

When buying an item, we've already discussed the value in holding off and determining if it is something you truly want. I think when it comes to fashion, this may not always work. Holding off for a bit may seem viable, but dang it if those gladiator sandals that go up to your shins are still to die for after a week of contemplation. So when weighing the decision to purchase fashion I believe in adhering to these valuable self-tests.

Timeless
Is the piece timeless or of the moment? I would much rather invest my money in pieces that have a quality shape and material, ones I know will stand the test of time, then throw away 20 bucks on a peasant skirt I would only wear for a season (because, we all know what happened with that trend). By choosing timeless classics, no matter the price, you are ensuring that the piece will be worn for years to come (see: my J. Crew dress, any basic skirt, pants that fit like a dream).

Cost per Wear usage
Ok, so it's no secret I am a HUGE Christian Louboutin shoe fan. I mean, I see those babies and I simply drool and mumble "mmmggggooood" Would I buy a pair? At this point, most likely not. Granted these are shoes that will, most likely, withstand my timeless test, however, have you actually seen a Christian Louboutin shoe? The chances of me wearing those babies enough times to make up for the $600-plus price is unlikely. I have a classic little black dress I bought at Express a couple years ago. It is not necessarily something I wear on a daily basis, but it is a perfect piece when the occasion calls for. Timeless? Absolutely. Low cost per wear? At $50 I can wear it a few times a feel justified in the purchase (and I do).

Mix and Match Capability
Don't you hate when you buy an absolutely gorgeous item, only to be able to wear it with one other coordinating piece? I sure do. Nothing is more frustrating and useless. What good is that adorable little zebra print capelet if it really only goes with those black capri pants? This is why I also put my items through a mix and match test. When I see a piece I melt over, I quickly do a mental invetory of the items in my closet that would compliment it. The desired item must coordinate with at least three pieces already in my closet (shoes, pants, tops, jackets etc). This ensures I squeeze multiple outfits from one piece. Many of you already know how the surrounding items can completely change the look and feel of a single piece, so it's important that I have clothes that can pull double duty.

When in Doubt: Accessorize
You can make an entire outfit feel new with the simple addition of an accessory. Buying costume jewlery from Target, Claire's or the like can up the sizzle factor on a piece with out the fizzle on your bank statement. I am especially a fan of "statement" pieces in which a simple white tank top and jeans is adorned with a necklace that speaks for itself. Exquisite jewlery (and I'm nto talking about the baubles that cost an arm and leg here) needs simplicity as it's background, and there is something so chic about a basic top and bottom combined with a gorgeous ring, necklace or bracelet. Headscarfs and hats are also excellent pieces to enhance with.

Basics
Is the piece basic enough? This is essentially all of the tests wrapped into one. If you buy a $20.00 white tank top, chances of you passing all the tests are likely. A basic piece that fits like a dream is the ultimate in frugal dressing. Think of your favorite outfits, or your favorite top. You probably wear it a lot, with a lot of items and it probably has flexibility in the things it pairs with. Buying basics can also be jazzed up with your accesories, making a drab outfit pop. So stock up on all those solid color tanks and tee's, get those blue jeans and then wear the heck outta em.

Hopefully, you have gotten some use from these tips (if you didn't dont' tell me). Also, most importantly, getting a great deal is only a great deal if you use the piece! Never buy what you don't need. Happy frugal buying!

Meander On Over

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 20:49:00 +0000

to the Simple Dollar and check out an excellent article for beating all those nasty tricks stores play on you to get you to spend the moolah.

Oh Dearie

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 14:44:00 +0000

I plum forgot yesterday was Thursday and I totally missed the boat. So to make it up to you here is a killer website that features a "Deal of the Day." It's called Gomattagirls.com and each day they bring you an item that is at an unbelievablely low price. Todays deal is an adorable little frock:

Retail price: $175.00
Gomatta price: $49.00

Simple Things

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:19:00 +0000

Sometimes, in our everyday life, we get so wrapped up in our to-dos, suppose-to-dos and have-to-dos we forget to take a moment and enjoy life. Here is a list of some things that enahnace life; simple yes but enjoyable? always.

1. A good read
2. Singing a favorite song on the radio
3. Yoga
4. Unexpected beauty in an unexpected place
5. Flowers
6. Farmers market
7. People watching
8. The smell of freshly baked goods
9. The first sip of a delicious glass of wine
10. Laughing until you cry
11. Having a really good conversation
12. Hugging a child (whether it be your own or a relative...just not a random one you see ont he street please)
13. Performing a random act of kindness (yes letting that car in front of you counts)
14. Dancing
15. Your absolute favorite meal
16. Having a real conversation with a child (you'd be amazed at the way they look at life)
17. Submerging your head under water and listening to the sound of nothing
18. Stargazing
19. The sound of the ocean
20. Ice cream on a hot day
21. Hot chocolate on a cold day
22. Christmas Eve
23. Blowing bubbles
24. Playing with a puppy
25. Having a picnic
26. Going for a scenic drive
27. Watching a fish swim in its tank
28. Ripe, juicy fruit
29. A cool breeze
30. The feeling of the sun on your skin
31. Jumping on the bed
32. Playing hooky
33. Watching an old movie
34. Accomplishing a goal...even if the goal was to get out of bed in the morning
35. Staying in your pjs all day
36. Holding hands for the first time
37. Coffee
38. Laughing at an inside joke
39. Cleaning your house (ok not the actual act of it but the relaxing bit after everything is shiny and clean)
40. The smell of clean laundry
41. Soaking in a bubble bath
42. Face masks
43. Gentle stretching and meditation
44. Old couples in love
45. Blowing a dandelion
46. Running.. no matter the distance
47. Giving a gift for no reason
48. The feeling after you are finally over your heartbreak
49. Getting into a bed of really soft, satiny sheets
50. Taking a moment to recognize your breathing, the air on your skin and reveling in the feeling of being alive

Finance Fiesta

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 14:52:00 +0000

Hey all! Wide Open Wallet hosted Finance Fiesta: The Olympic Edition. Some excellent articles to check out so be sure to stop by and enjoy.

Ready to Be Rich is a man after this girl's heart when he took on Ways to Save Money on Hair.

Looking to make a little cold hard cash on the side? Check out Your Finish Rich Plan where an article tackles this in Making Money Online, Ten Things I wish I knew as a Beginner

An excellent article at Physician Entrepreneur delves into investing: Investing in Bonds-The Basics

Debt Smackdown discusses the concepts and feelings that are often connected with amassing money at What Do You Believe About Money?

Beach Romp

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 17:03:00 +0000

Women's Bikini Bottoms Old Navy, On Sale $10.00

Women's String Bikini Top Old Navy, On Sale $10.00

Women's Terry Empire Cover Up Old Navy, On Sale $12.99

Car Sharing

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Mon, 11 Aug 2008 20:31:00 +0000

So I was reading an article on usnews.com when a mention of car sharing caught my attention. What is it? It's a car sharing service for people who arent' willing to commit to the full time aspect of owning a car. How does it work? Well according to Zipcar you can rent a car for hours or days depending on yoru need. They have value plans that entail paying a monthly fee and a discount on the driving. A sample of this plan is the "Extra Value Plan" that has a $50.00 monthly commitment, a $25.00 one-time application fee and a 10% driving discount that starts at $8.10/hour and $59.40/day. Insurance, gas and 180miles are free.

This all begs the question: but is it worth it?? Ok maybe if you live in a densley populated city where public transportation is sufficient day-to-day and there is the odd occassion where renting (sorry sharing) a car is necessary. But living in a spread out town....I don't know I think that with the money charged to rent you could own a car for slightly more. Anyone care to share their thoughts on this concept?

Gallivanting in Style

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 15:20:00 +0000

ELLE™ Leaf Smocked Knit Dress Kohls, On Sale $29.99

WANTED Egypt Gold Ring Thong Sandals, $15.00

Kinna Hobo Payless Shoes, $22.99

Yum Yum Savings

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 15:14:00 +0000

HP.com: $1.00, $2.00 and $3.00 off printer paper
Honey Bunches of Oats Just Clusters: $2.00 off
Nature Valley Granola Bars: $.60 off
Yoplait Yogurt-Original, Light, Thinck and Creamy or Whips: $.50 off
Eight 'O Clock Coffee: $1.00 off
Pepperidge Farm Baked Naturals: $1.00 off

Cutting the Fat...Off My Budget

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Wed, 06 Aug 2008 14:59:00 +0000

For those of you who have ever tried to lose weight (and assuming that most of you have at least read articles about losing weight), you're probably familiar with the concept of writing down everything you eat. This tactic has proves time and time again to aid the individual in lsoing weight, the underlying principle being that you think twice about what you eat if you have to write it down. I found the same goes for trimming down your budget.

In May I began to not only live by a budget, but to also record everything I spent within the same budget to see what the delta would be in my proposed spending vs. actual spending. My first month I proposed a $2,3000 monthly budget. This budget included all the mandatory bills and entertainment, books, clothes, shoes and so forth. What did I clock in at? $2,600. The great thing about having tracked this? I not only saw that I went over my budget, I knew what it was exactly that tipped me over (the answer is spa treatments). So in June, I kept at it, then July and now into August. After looking at the three months of data I have compiled, I've managed to shave my monthly budget down to $1,800. That's nearly a 70% decrease!

In getting my monthly expenditures within reason, I did make some cuts along the way. I reduced my cable/internet bill by getting rid of cable completely, I haven't been to the spa in a few months and new clothes have become a thing of the past. But what did I find? I found more money to finally pursue cake decorating and yoga, more time to spend reading and satisfaction knowing that I can treat myself to a spa indulgence without feeling guilty. I found that writing down everything you spend works quite similar to writing down what you eat. Several times I found myself tempted to plop down forty bucks for some shoes but when I realized I'd have to be writing that amount down and subtracting from my monthly budget....well that urge sort of fell by the wayside.

Although constructing a budget is the first step in living within your means, it is only of great use when you apply it to your everyday spending habits, particularly in the beginning stages.

History is merely a list of surprises. It can only prepare us to be surprised yet again.” -Kurt Vonnegut

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 19:20:00 +0000

Great article I stumbled upon while trolling around bogleheads.com. You can check it out here at Seeking Alpha: Investment Discipline in the Year of Capitulation

Essentially, it discusses the importance of investment discipline in a bear market. Check it out and let me know what you think

The $25 Dollar Way to Change the World

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 19:53:00 +0000

A lot of personal finance blogs discuss giving to those who have less. I think this is an amazing concept and one I am just now realizing. I recently discovered Kiva, a person-to-person micro-lending site. Micro loans are gaining popularity as a low cost way to contribute to charity. Essentially, you donate however much you can afford (Kiva's minimum is $25) and these loans are given to struggling entrepreneurs in improvished countries. Most often these are women caring for large families.

The cool thing about Kiva is it shows you who youa re donating to and what sort of business they run. Also notifys you when the micro loan has been repaid. Check it out! A bargain price to feel like you've made this world a slightly better place

Slumber Party...or Lounge All Day

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 15:30:00 +0000

I can't think of anything more comforting than staying in your pjs all day. Problem is you can start to feel a little ragged when you wear solely for comfort. I guess that's why I'm a fan of Vicky's Secret: you can look oh-so cute and cuddly and still be as comfortable as you would be in cut off sweats (which are always my choice if I know I will be spending the day in seclusion).

Victoria's Secret Pink Poplin Scrub Pant, On Sale $15.99

Victoria's Secret Scoopneck Racerback Tank, On Sale $7.99

Yum Yum Savings

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 20:57:00 +0000

Here's a little taste of savings to get you going this week.

Foster Farms Turkey Meat, $1.00 off any two
Shoes.com, 15% Off [code: JULYSAVE]
C&H Sugar, $.55 off any two
Scott Tissue, $1.00 off
Barnes & Noble.com, %15 off [code: J4H7X7R]

San Diego: The Land of Five Dollar Entertainment

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 21:21:00 +0000

So you find yourself in San Diego, whether it be living or visiting, and looking for some entertainment for under 5 bucks. Easy! Here is a list of my favorite events that you can enjoy with a little help from Abe (Lincoln that is).

Flamenco!, free

Enjoy a free show from Anthony Carcia every Saturday at the Sky Lounge at Sheraton Suites. Thursday-Saturday from 5-7pm. Bonus: Can you say Happy Hour makes a cheap dinner?

Passport to Balboa Park, $3.00 per Museum

Get culture overload and enjoy seven days of museum visiting at Balboa Park. The Passport is valid for seven consecutive days, and includes one admission to each of the 13 attractions; the price for the passport total is $39.00 for adults (averages to $3 per museum) and $21.00 for kids (averages to $1.62 per museum). Participating museums:

Japanese Friendship Garden
Mingei International Museum
Museum of Photographic Arts
Reuben H. Fleet Science Center
San Diego Air and Space Museum
SDAI- Museum of the Living Artist
San Diego Automotive Museum
Museum of San Diego History
San Diego Model Railroad Museum
San Diego Museum of Art
San Diego Museum of Man
San Diego Natual History Museum
San Diego Hall of Champions

Free Museum Tuesdays, free

So you're flexible and don't feel much like buying the passport? Well follow this schedule and every Tuesday you can experience select museums for free:

First Tuesday
Reuben H. Fleet Science Center,
Centro Cultural de la Raza
Model Railroad Museum***
Natural History Museum***
*** Free to San Diego County Residents and Active Military only

Second Tuesday
Museum of Photographic Arts,
Museum of San Diego History
Veterans’ Museum and Memorial Center

Third Tuesday
San Diego Art Institute
San Diego Museum of Art
San Diego Museum of Man
Japanese Friendship Garden ***
*** Free to San Diego County Residents and Active Military only
Mingei International Museum

Fourth Tuesday
San Diego Air & Space Museum*** (See Special Information following museum listings)
San Diego Automotive Museum (last admission 3:45pm) **
San Diego Hall of Champions***
House of Pacific Relations International Cottages
*** Free to San Diego County Residents and Active Military only

Fifth Tuesday
Normal museum prices in effect.
The Timken Museum of Art is always free.

Racing Season at the Del Mar Racetrack, $6.00

7/16-9/3

Ok, so this one is a dollar over BUT these races are a huge thing here in San Diego. Located in Del Mar, you can not only enjoy a fun sport, but soak in the great sights of the beautiful Del Mar community. Also, if you happen to be free on Fridays stop by for the weekly concert that is free with admission. With concerts like: Gavin Rossdale, Gnarls Barkley, Ziggy Marley and Devo you're getting a killer deal.

La Jolla Cove, free

This hot sport is not only walking distance from the commercial area of La Jolla (read: shops), but is probably the best beach around. Bring your flippers and goggles for a little snorkling and check out the tide pools with all sorts of creatures in them.

Annual Julian Fall Apple Festival, free

9/15– 11/15

Julian is a town about an hour northeast of San Diego. Their known around here for their apple harvest (and thus apple pie) and many San Diegans enjoy day trips here to remember what fall is like around the rest of the country. Make some time to head up there for their Festival and enjoy autumn foliage, arts shows, entertainment and seasonal foods, such as apple pie and cider. Roadside stands offer fresh local apples, pears and homemade cider.

Banksy

noreply@blogger.com (Kari) — Thu, 24 Jul 2008 17:58:00 +0000

Check out his work here: http://www.banksy.co.uk/menu.html. Easily kills about an hour or so.