Woolies - eat in for 4 under R100:

ON THE MENU
ROTISSERIE CHICKEN
SAVE 10.00
OR SELECTED PORK SAUSAGES (400 G)
SAVE 5.00
OR SELECTED LAMB SAUSAGES (400 G)
SAVE 5.00


+

BULK ROSA TOMATO SALAD (300 G)
SAVE 5.00


+

6 HOT DOG ROLLS
SAVE 2.00


+

STICKY TOFFEE PUDDING (430 G)
SAVE 10.00


+

FRUIT JUICE (1L)
SAVE 2.50
OR COKE (1L)
SAVE 1.50
Sent from my BlackBerry® wireless device

ANNOUNCEMENT: Update on our 'addictedtodiscounts' home

So, building is under way! The builder estimated the first phase to be completed by July 1st but unfortunately (as anticipated) they are still building. The first phase consisted of gutting and totally refurbishing the small cottage on the property. This is for Shaun's grandfather to move into as he is the current occupant of the house we will be moving into - hopefully ASAP! The photo below was taken about two weeks ago but sadly it doesn't look very different now. The builders have assured us that the new week will hold much progress...

We have already started packing up the main house, and let me tell you that packing a 3 bedroom house of a lifetime's belongings and trying to economise to get it all to fit into a 6 by 6 garden cottage is not easy! My mother-in-law and I have been there (her more than I) the whole week and the progress is slow, very slow. Shaun has however been very efficient by selling off surplus furniture on Gumtree (let's have a moments silence in respect for the wonderful creators of this genius establishment).

As soon as he has moved in and the builder's have done all their finishing touches we will start to renovate inside our home. This will also been done over a number of phases as money allows. We've tried to break it up into what is more important and make the biggest difference in the rooms we occupy the most. The house is very closed off and dark with a long passage dividing and blocking off light. We plan to rectify this by knocking down the passage door on the left to create an open plan lounge and dining room.

The floors are beautiful so we are going to pick up the carpets in two of the bedrooms on the right hand side to expose the wooden flooring. We are going to paint the whole house to create a little more uniformity in a warm grey/beige colour (aka. greige, copyright Cara) and repaint all the doors, ceilings, cornices and skirtings in white. There is a huge problem which is definitely essential - there is no plumbing for a dishwasher - so while this is being taken care of the geyser will be replaced too. This is all that will be done in phase one. After it is complete and before we start on the extensive second phase we will be changing light fittings, modernising door handles, sprucing up the kitchen and bathroom, doing landscaping and general decorating.

What I've learnt so far is that when doing building on a budget, the costs never end! There is always another list of supplies to be bought and problems occuring. We did find that Bathroom Bizarre had a great deal on a "package" of a bath, toilet and basin which of course didn't include the small, surprisingly expensive taps, toilet seat and plumbing. You need to shop around for these specials and talk to people who are in the same boat. We got this tip from the mother of my very special friend, Monique. I have also learnt that when you are unable to afford to do the whole thing at once break it down into things you hate and by correcting will bring you the most joy, also to keep the things you don't hate (thanks Tamara!) We also have paid our builder for the job and not per day which as you can already assume would have been much more expensive as they probably underestimated their time by half.

I can't wait to be on the other side of this journey - the after, but am enjoying the process and finding it so much fun!

PROMOTION: Ambassador Foods

On Monday morning, an equally 'addictedtodiscounts' devotee; my friend Kim, her 3 month old gorgeous son and I went on a "road trip" to Montaque Gardens. There we found the lovely Ambassador Foods which offers excellent prices and bulk buying of nuts, seeds and dried fruit. Between the two of us we stocked up on healthy snacks. Peanuts and raisins (R12 for 500g), chinese crackers (R19 for 500g), dates (my favourite! R12 for 500g) as well as seeds and nuts for smoothies and salads. The shop is organised and neat with very friendly and helpful sales ladies. Please make an effort to go out there as soon as you can as it is definitely worth your while. The trip out there is not to bad and the shop is very easy to find, alternatively you can shop online.

Ambassador Foods
23 Bolt Avenue, Montague Gardens, 7435
Follow the M5 along Koeberg Road. Turn right into Racecourse Road (on the left is the Milnerton Medi Clininc) which changes in to Bolt Avenue. Ambassador Foods is marked by large flags at the end of the cul-de-sac where you will be greeted by a very smart and proffessional security guard.

Tel: (+27) 21 555 2810 / 11 Fax: (+27) 21 555 2809
Mondays – Fridays: 07:30 to 16:30

ADVICE: My Shopping Deals

A great website for vouchers, deals and cash back offers is MyShoppingDeals. They have a grocery comparison section which, for the past 3 months have been comparing prices between Checkers, Pick 'n Pay and Woolworths. The graph below highlights exactly how important it is to shop around and listen for specials as there is no continuously more expensive or cheaper shop. Although shopping at Woolworths may seem more expensive  at times their quality and value is uncomparable. Their sell by dates seem to be a rough guideling as fresh produce lasts much longer.

PROMOTION: Pick 'n Pay

It’s the end of the month (again? I know!) and it’s time to restock the pantry. Here are Pick ‘n Pays Specials which are valid until the 11th of July.


Royco sauce assorted R5.49 SAVE R2.00
McCain young & tender mixed vegetables R16.99 Per 1kg SAVE R7.00
Ola magnum minis assorted R37.99 Per 6's SAVE R9.00
McCain young & tender garden mix R17.99 Per 1kg R5.00
McCain real ovenbake chips: straight cut or crinkle cut R15.79 Per 1kg SAVE R4.20
Lancewood cottage cheese R11.99 Per 250g SAVE R5.50
I&J chicken flame grills breast fillets R22.99 Per 420g SAVE R8.00
Enterprise traditional: viennas, cheese grillers or country sausages R19.99 Per 375g SAVE R6.00
Sea harvest hake medallions R29.99 Per 585g SAVE R6.00
PnP all grain eggs large R28.99 Per 24's SAVE R11.00
Simba Lay's: lightly salted or caribbean onion & balsamic vinegar chips R8.99 Per 175g SAVE R2.00
KWV Roodeberg R49.95 Per 750ml SAVE R10.00
Borges extra virgin olive oil R79.99 Per 1.3l R10.00 (for other excellent deals on Olive Oil try Fruit and Veg City)
Garnier: ultralift proxulane day cream, anti-wrinkle roll on or SPF 20 day cream R128.99 Per 50ml SAVE R40.00
L'Oreal excell 10 hair colour R89.99 Each SAVE R36.00
Knorr pasta & sauce assorted R11.99 Each SAVE R3.50
Tastic instant rice R12.99 Per 250g SAVE R3.00
Goldcrest soup assorted R11.99 Per 400g SAVE R3.00
McCain young & tender country crop R15.99 Per 1kg SAVE R4.00
Bokomo super quick oats R13.99 Per 1kg SAVE R4.70
PnP cocktail samoosas assorted R29.99 Per 24's SAVE R8.00
PnP crumbed chicken nuggets R19.99 Per 400g SAVE R6.00
PnP crumbed chicken sticks R17.99 Per 400g SAVE R5.00
PnP smoked mussels value pack R37.99 Per 5x85g SAVE R1.00
Maq auto washing powder R38.79 Per 2kg SAVE R9.90 (Anyone tried this?)
First choice vanilla custard R14.99 Per 1l SAVE R4.00
Satiskin bubble bath assorted R29.99 Per 2l SAVE R8.00
Stork country spread tub R9.99 Per 500g R2.00
Garnier 100% hair colour R68.99 Each SAVE R30.00
Vaseline intensive care: lotion, moisturising lotion or body cream R23.99 Per 400ml/500ml SAVE R4.00
Bio-Oil R29.99 Per 60ml SAVE R14.00
Kotex pads assorted R14.99 Each SAVE R5.00
Horlicks assorted R24.99 Per 250g SAVE R6.00
Danone clover nutriday fruit yoghurt multipack R12.99 Per 6x100g SAVE R2.50
PnP pizza bases R19.99 Per 4's R5.00
ADDIS PVA butterfly mop R59.99 Each SAVE R20.00
Four Cousins: extra light or light rosé R24.95 Per 750ml SAVE R5.00
Sunlight auto washing powder flexi bag R39.99 Per 2kg SAVE R11.00
Jacobs Kronung: regular or mild instant coffee R69.99 Per 200g R10.00
Goldi frozen chicken thighs R24.99 Per 1.5kg SAVE R8.00
Blossom lite medium spread R5.49 Per 500g SAVE R1.50
PnP no name lemon dishwash liquid R9.99 Per 750ml SAVE R1.00
PnP no name wine: Dry red or Johannesberger semi-sweet red R49.99 Per 3l SAVE R8.00
PnP no name smooth apricot jam R10.79 Per 900g SAVE R3.00
PnP no name tagless tea bags R18.99 Per 200's SAVE R2.00
Namaqua range (excludes sweet rosé) R64.95 Per 5l SAVE R12.00
Saldanha: Pilchards in tomato sauce or chilli sauce R9.69 Per 425g SAVE R3.60
PnP pure instant coffee R44.99 Per 200g SAVE R4.00
Mr Min furniture polish assorted (excludes specialist) R15.49 Per 275ml SAVE R6.50
Pineware twin pack R179.99 Per pack SAVE R20.00
Addis 26 piece fresh stuff food saver set R69.99 Per set SAVE R40.00
Jungle oats R15.69 Per 1kg SAVE R2.20
Fatti's & Moni's: spaghetti or macaroni R6.79 Per 500g SAVE R1.20
All Gold: Indian, Italian, Mexican style or Mediterranean ratatouille tomatoes R9.99 Per 410g SAVE R2.50
Koo: mixed vegetables or curry mixed vegetables range R6.49 Per 410g SAVE R3.50
Cadbury chocolate slabs assorted R12.99 200g / 180g SAVE R4.00
Coke lite, Coke zero or Tab R11.99 Per 2l R2.00
Willards: crinkle cut and original s-cut chips assorted R5.99 Per 125g SAVE R2.00
TV Bar, Inside Story, Niki Bar, All In One Bar, Now Bar, Nosh Bar or New Look Bar R3.99 Each SAVE R1.00
Borstol cough remedy assorted R21.49 Per 100ml SAVE R8.00
Sunlight auto washing powder flexi bag R19.99 Per 1kg SAVE R7.00
Sta-soft fabric conditioner R22.49 Per 2l SAVE R5.36
Head & shoulders shampoo R37.89 Per 400ml SAVE R21.00
PnP cordon bleu kiev or creamy garlic kiev R15.99 Per 270g SAVE R6.00
Farmer Brown: crumbed breast fillet, crunchy tenders or schnitzels R24.99 Per 400g SAVE R7.00
White Star super maize R20.99 Per 5kg SAVE R3.00

PROMOTION: Woolworths

ADVICE: Toiletries and Household Cleaning Products

As recently mentioned Clicks is a great place to do your toiletry and household cleaning product shopping. My mom, Di Forster, compiled the following list of examples. She compared the exact same products and did not look for "house brands" or the cheaper options. Although the difference is not extraordinary the benefits of getting Clicks Club points back makes it worth while. The comparison was done at Clicks Cavendish Square and Pick 'n Pay Steenberg Village (the friendliest, most organised Pick 'n Pay Family Store in my opinion!)

ADVICE: Financial Planning

FROM: The Financial Planner

Hi, some shocking stats that should make us look at our retirement savings...



The PROBLEM of living too long - Out of every 10 65yr olds who retire, 4 are a burden on the state or their families, 3 are compelled to continue working, 2 survive on too little pension & 1 retires financially independent.
 
Do you have any Questions regarding your finances or do you want to know how to make your money work for you? Please contact Richard Eachus 076 1946 097

"Always plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the ark"

Websites for further information:
www.thinkmoney.co.za
www.persfin.co.za

ADVICE: Where to shop this week?

Grocery prices are escalating at a dramatic rate and I am battling to keep up. If you feel the same, maybe you will find the following interesting. I have selected a few necessities and have compared their prices at two different stores; Pick 'n Pay and Woolworths, as these are the only two stores offering online shopping - shocking! A further comparison at Checkers will be done shortly.

The cheapest option will always be chosen.

using http://www.pnponline.co.za/

loaf of bread                                                R5.49

2l fresh milk (2% or low fat)                           R14.99

2 ply toilet paper (4 rolls)                              R21.99

washing powder (1kg automatic)                    R23.99
cheddar cheese slices                                   R14.99
oranges (per kilo)                                         R6.99

mince (beef per kilo)                                    R38.95

eggs (pack of 6)                                           R9.99

TOTAL                                                        R137.38

using www.woolworths.co.za

loaf of bread                                                R6.95

2l fresh milk (2% or low fat)                           R16.39
2 ply toilet paper (4 rolls)                              R22.95
washing powder (1kg automatic)                    R29.95
cheddar cheese slices                                   R14.95
oranges (per kilo)                                         R7.95
mince (beef per kilo)                                    R54.90
eggs (pack of 6)                                            R9.95
TOTAL                                                        R163.99
*Most of the cheaper Woolworths products were from the new Essentials Range

Pick 'n Pay comes in R26.61 cheaper and if you have a Discovery healthy foods/credit card you are entitled to even more savings. Yet, I think I have made my point... GROCERY PRICES ARE RIDICULOUSLY HIGH! Good luck, good luck to us all!

PROMOTION: Clicks

PROMOTION: Spar

For more info please visit the Spar website by clicking on the logo on the left hand side.

PROMOTION: Woolworths

Soccer World Cup fan gear discounted at woolworths

PROMOTION: Computicket Travel

Computicket Travel - 20 000 Mango seats - from R299 JNB-DBN, R429 CPT-DBN, R499 JNB-CPT & vv. T&C apply. Buy+fly till end Jul @ Checkers/CHyper or 083 915 8000!

RECIPE: Lamb Chops

I have to admit I just made the most delicious lamb chops. It takes about 2 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook.

Serves 2

4 Lamb chops
Half an orange
1 teaspoon fresh crushed garlic
3 tablespoons Soya Sauce
Ina Paarman Meat Spice/Salt and Pepper
Dash of Olive Oil

Pour Olive Oil into a baking dish. Place lamb chops in dish. Pour Soya Sauce and squeeze orange evenly over chops. Put a little garlic on each chop and spread with teaspoon. Sprinkle spices generously over chops. Grill in oven for 10 minutes and then turn chops over and grill for a further 10 minutes on the other side. Serve with a ciabatta roll to soak up all the juices. Enjoy with a glass or two of wine!

PROMOTION: Pick 'n Pay

Specials at Pick 'n Pay valid from 14 - 27 June

Danone nutriday yoghurts assorted
R15.99 Per 1kg SAVE R5.00

Enterprise back bacon
R17.99 Per 250g SAVE R4.00

Barilla: spaghetti or spaghettini
R9.99 Per 500g SAVE R2.00


PnP hot chocolate
R25.99 Per 500g SAVE R4.00

PnP ceylon tagless tea bags
R14.99 Per 100's SAVE R3.00

PnP 100 % pure instant coffee regular
R44.99 Per 200g SAVE R4.00

PnP jam glass jar assorted
R14.99 Per 450g SAVE R3.00

Twee Jonge Gezellen Krone Borealis MCC
R69.95 Per 750ml SAVE R16.00

Dairybelle drinking yoghurt: fruit of the forest, so smooth, in shape
R4.39 Per 300ml SAVE R0.60

Beacon chocolate prepacks assorted
R7.99 Per 125g SAVE R2.00

Lunch Bar / dream, Crunchie, PS caramilk / dairymilk, Tempo / power nut
R3.99 Each SAVE R1.90

Eskort rindless back bacon
R18.99 Per 250g SAVE R5.00

PnP crumbed fish portions: regular or lemon & pepper
R31.99 Per 425g SAVE R5.00

Sunshine D margarine brick
R8.99 Per 500g SAVE R3.50

PnP cordon bleu kiev or creamy garlic kiev
R15.99 Per 270g SAVE R6.00

Today sausage rolls
R30.99 Per 30's SAVE R9.00

Parmalat UHT vanilla custard
R16.99 Per 1L SAVE R5.00

McCain harvestime mixed vegetables
R15.79 Per 1kg SAVE R2.20

Farmer Brown: crumbed breast fillet, crunchy tenders or schnitzels
R24.99 Per 400g SAVE R7.00

Wellington's chutney assorted
R11.99 Per 470g SAVE R2.60

Beacon chocolate slabs assorted
R10.99 Per 200g SAVE R3.00

Simba potato chips assorted
R5.99 Per 125g SAVE R1.50


Sprite or Fanta assorted
R11.99 Per 2l SAVE R2.30

Parmalat low fat fruit yoghurt all flavours
R3.99 Per 175g SAVE R1.00

McCain harvestime: country mix or cut beans
R16.99 Per 1kg SAVE R9.00

I&J fish & crisps all variants
R16.99 Per 300g


New Perdeberg Shiraz / Perdeberg Cabernet Merlot Blend
R29.95 Per 750ml SAVE R7.00

Savanha Merlot / Savanha Shiraz
R27.95 Per 750ml SAVE R5.00

Nestle Bar One large, Kit Kat 4 finger 45gr, Nestle smarties 40gr, Tex bar 40gr
R3.99 Each SAVE R2.30

Bakers Red Label lemon creams
R5.99 Per 200g SAVE R2.50

County Fair chicken burger light
R19.85 Per 400g SAVE R6.14

Blossom lite tub
R16.99 Per 1kg R5.00

Blue Ribbon one brown bread sliced
R5.69 Per 700g SAVE R0.30
PnP no name skipper in tomato sauce
R8.99 Per 400g SAVE R1.00
White Star super maize
R20.99 Per 5kg SAVE R3.00

PnP no name fish fingers
R25.95 Per 800g SAVE R9.00

PROMOTION: Pick 'n Pay Travel

The World Cup is not only uniting our country in support of the Bafana Bafana but is also allowing for great specials and ways to cut costs. Pick 'n Pay travel (say what?) are offering up to 50% off on luxury hotels. (Who knew!)

Valid up to 30th June 2010 (including the World Cup) and offering the best price guaranteed:



HARBOUR BRIDGE HOTEL & SUITES

WAS R1,940 per person.

NOW only from R970 per person including Breakfast.

BANTRY BAY LUXURY SUITES

WAS R990 per person.
NOW only from R495 per person including Breakfast.

LEISURE BAY LUXURY SUITES

WAS R810 per person.

NOW only from R495 per person including Breakfast.

SIMON’S TOWN QUAYSIDE HOTEL

WAS R815 per person.

NOW only from R299 per person including Breakfast.

TWELVE APOSTLES
R1095 per person FREE UPGRADE from a CLASSIC ROOM to MOUNTAIN FACING ROOM EXCLUSIVE to PICK n PAY TRAVEL customers.

Also includes:

•Luxury Accommodation & Full English breakfast daily

•5-course dinner from our set menus in the Azure restaurant

•Complimentary use of the CINE 12 (In-house cinema) with unlimited snacks

Not to be biased or anything, but I got engaged at the Twelve Apostles as well as spent my first wedding anniversary there - so it is very special!

For these and more offers including travelling in Zimbabwe and Knysna (perfect for the upcoming Oyster Festival) go to the website now by clicking the logo below.

http://travel.pnp.co.za/newsletter2010May.php

PROMOTION: Woolworths

It's been awhile but Woolworths has released their latest special for family meals. This time cashing in on the Soccer World Cup (who can resist!) they are offerering a great deal on burgers, fries and a selection of drinks. Enjoy it while watching the next big game - GO BAFANA!

PROFILE: Julia Child

This weekend I have stayed with my mom and sister while Shaun has gone up to PE to watch a few of the soccer games. Although I hate it when he goes away for any reason, I have enjoyed catching up on some chick flicks - one of which is 'Julie & Julia'. This is my reason for the newest profile of the popular TV chef, author and amazingly diverse, Julia Child.

She was born Julia McWilliams, on August 15, 1912, in Pasadena, California. Julia attended San Francisco's elite Katherine Branson School for Girls and then went on to Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts. Afterwards, she moved to New York, where she worked in the advertising department of the prestigious home furnishings company W&J Sloane. In 1941, at 6 feet 2 inches, she volunteered as a research assistant for a government intelligence agency which sent her to Sri Lanka, India and eventually China where she met her husband, Paul Child. In August 2008, the National Archives de-classified 750,000 pages of personnel files. The documents revealed that Child was, in fact, a spy during World War II. She served with the Office of Strategic Services, the huge spy network created by President Franklin Roosevelt and forerunner of today's CIA.

In 1948, when Paul was reassigned to the U.S. Information Service at the American Embassy in Paris, the Childs moved to France. While there, Julia developed a penchant for French cuisine and attended the world-famous Cordon Bleu cooking school. Following her six-month training—which included private lessons with master chef Max Bugnard—Julia banded with fellow Cordon Bleu students Simone Beck and Louisette Bertholle to form the cooking school L'Ecole de Trois Gourmandes (The School of the Three Gourmands). With a goal of adapting sophisticated French cuisine for mainstream Americans, the trio collaborated on a two-volume cookbook titled Mastering the Art of French Cooking (1961). Published in the U.S., the 800-page book was considered a groundbreaking work and has since become a standard guide for the culinary community.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Julia made regular appearances on the ABC morning show Good Morning, America. Her other endeavors included the television programs Julia Child and Company (1978), Julia Child and More Company (1980), and Dinner at Julia's (1983), as well as a slew of bestselling cookbooks that covered every aspect of culinary knowledge.




Paul, who was ten years older than Julia, died in 1994 after living in a nursing home for five years following a series of strokes in 1989. In 2001 she moved to a retirement community in Santa Barbara, California, donating her house and office to Smith College, which later sold the house. She donated her kitchen, which her husband designed with high counters to accommodate her formidable height, and which served as the set for three of her television series, to the National Museum of American History, where it is now on display. Her iconic copper pots and pans were on display at COPIA in Napa, California, until August 2009 when they were reunited with her kitchen at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, DC.

On August 13, 2004, Julia Child died of kidney failure at her assisted-living home in Montecito, two days before her 92nd birthday. Child ended her last book My Life in France with "..thinking back on it now reminds that the pleasures of the table, and of life, are infinite - toujours bon appétit!"

PROMOTION: Checkers

The Checkers Health and Beauty Special is on until the 13th of June in the Western Cape. Click on the link to view the online catalogue: http://www.checkers.co.za/Files/198763778/viewer/index.html?doc=HealthBeauty_Specials&brochure=true

PROMOTION: Crabtree & Evelyn

I have just been to Cavendish Square and stumbled upon a wonderful surprise - 50% off sale at Crabtree & Evelyn for today only. Under the guise of a Soccer Day they have cut prices! It is never to early to start your Christmas shopping. I bought my mother-in-law, aunt and myself something sweet-smelling and delicious. Go before it's to late!

ANNOUNCEMENT: Big news revealed

A few weeks ago I quoted an entry from the home magazine about the tips they were offering. Well, the reason I found this particularly interesting is because my husband and I have decided to move. I have (as of yesterday) signed a contract to work at the wonderful Sun Valley Primary School. It was very sad to say goodbye to my colleagues and class today but it does mean that a new chapter is being opened starting from next month. My husband and I will be moving to Fish Hoek to live in a house his parents own 5 minutes away from my new school. It does need a bit of work but we will be doing it slowly and on a budget, which will be very exciting! I can't wait to start and see my many, many ideas become a reality. Below is a picture of the front of the house. It has 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, a small cottage, a single garage and stunning wooden floors. There is lots of potential and I know it is going to be beautiful once we have made some cosmetic changes and moved our things in. This house will become our home.

PROMOTION: Woolworths

This week at Woolworths they have a promotion on all their ready made soups - what a pleasure! Flora tubs and cheese are also on special so go to Woolies this week for the ingredients for toasted cheese sarmies you can dip in yummy, warm soup!

ADVICE: Streeetching your spending

Thinking about ways to get more out of your budget this month? I have the following tips for you:

• Pay close attention to your medical aid. I am on Discovery and by actually reading their newsletter this month I found some great specials on things I actually needed and was going to buy. They also offer discounts on particular products and their credit card system offers 25% off your total grocery bill at Pick 'n Pay. My gym fees could be reduced (that is if I actually went to gym or had a membership...) and the magazine subscription I bought my husband for our 'paper' anniversary was more than reasonable! Also look for health screening tests that are free. You have to go anyway, you might as well let your medical aid pay for it.
• Get a book card. At Exclusive books or CUM books their loyalty cards offer great discounts. Exclusive Books give you cash back and CUM offers a 10% discount to clients with this card.
• Keep your eyes and ears open for great events that don't cost a thing! Go to exhibits advertised online or in the newspaper, walks around the market or hikes up the mountain - all free and all educational/healthy/FREE!
• Avoid processed, ready-made meals that aren't fulling, healthy or cheap. Rather eat healthy, balanced foods that are good for you and prevent you from landing up at the Doc's office when your body breaks down from vitamin deficiency.
• Shop around or try new brands - Buy your cleaning products from Clicks. Not only are they cheaper but if you buy on your Clicks Card you get points. What? You don't have a Clicks card. Shame on you. (Thanks mom for this one)
• Do yourself a favour. Ask your mom to do your sewing and you cook her a meal. Bring in your neighbour's mail while they are away and get her to babysit your cat when next you are away. A little bit of bartering goes a long way.
• Cook and freeze meals to avoid making purchases when you are in a rush and hungry.
• Buy in bulk and share with a friend.
• Go to China Town, Osmans and other factory shops for clothing, toys, stationery and gifts - yes, it's a bit of a shlep and you have to spend some time looking around but it is worth it for the bargains you'll find. It's all comes from the same place anyway! Just don't buy for the sake of getting something cheap. Make sure you know what you are looking for before you go and stick to your list (any excuse to make a list hey Cara)
• Follow addictedtodiscounts for all the latest special offers, promotions and ideas - I couldn't resist!

Any other tips to share? Please feel free to add them.

PROMOTION: Capitec Bank

My brother-in-law has just started a new job as a Financial Planner and it fascinates me to no end, simply because the concept of money and making the best decisions regarding it is so important to me but also because I am so desperate to understand it! (I am currently battling my way through SARS registration) Anyway, he has sold me on the merits of CAPITEC bank. Until the end of July they are running an incredible Special Offer. FREE debit card transactions and cash withdrawls from the tills at Pick 'n Pay, Shoprite/Checkers and PEP stores. You may think "Oh, but that is a short term benefit, what about the remainder of the year?" It gets better, as this blogger explains... "I'm changing to Capitec - I've had enough of Standard Bank" says Relax with Dax from www.relax-with-dax.co.za Their monthly fees are low, withdrawl fees are minimal and internet banking is free!!! My husband and I have a joint account so I will need to run this by him but the thought of having control over my whole salary and not having mysteriously high amounts debited unwillingly off my account every month is something I can't imagine him saying no to or I may need to rethink our marriage... I am after all - addicted to discounts!

ANNOUNCEMENT: Daily Specials

Apologies for the lack of updates lately - I have been sick in bed and busy with end of term reports but I think this will make it up to you. I have come across a wonderful website that lists specials for restaurants and accomodation in the Western Cape. Everyone should take a look for when next you need a weekend away or feel like spoiling yourself to a good meal! Check it out at: http://www.dailyspecials.co.za/ ENJOY!

PROMOTION: Pick 'n Pay

Promotions at Pick 'n Pay from 31 May to 12 June 2010



I'm not sure if it's because of the World Cup or the cold weather but the people at Pick 'n Pay are feeling festive and generous this fortnight - I was amazed at the deals available. Definitely worth a look.

Wynns Cleen Green R29,99 (save R10,00)
Addis roughtote R39,99 (save R15,00)
Prestige 12 cup muffin pan R34,99 (save R25,00)
Mallory Steam Dry Iron R69,99 (save R20,00)
Rama spread for bread R19,99 (save R10,00)
McCain harvestime chips R12,99 (save R7,00)
Dairybelle cheese singles: Cheddar or Gouda R24,99 (save R9,00)

For these and other specials go to the Pick 'n Pay website by clicking on the logo above.

PROFILE: Martha Stewart

Martha Stewart (nee Kostyra) was born on the 3rd of August 1941 in Jersey City, New Jersey. Her parents were middle-class Polish-Americans who had 5 other children. Martha learnt her gardening skills from her father and household skills from her mother and grandparents. She was active in extra-mural activities participating in the school newspaper and Art Club. She had a successful modelling career while at school and was later awarded a partial scholarship to Barnard College because of her straight A's. She began studying chemistry but went on to focus on art, European history and architectural history. She continued her modelling career while her husband finished his degree at Yale Law School.

Her business skills were honed in 1967 when she became a stockbroker for 6 years. She stopped to spend more time with her daughter and renovate her new home in Connecticut. This home was the house used as the model for the set for the Martha Stewart Living television program. She began a catering business in her basement with a friend and successfully transformed The Market Basket, a gourmet food store.

Through her husband's successful career she was introduced to a publisher who convinced Martha to develop a cookbook, 'Entertaining'. Following the success of her book, she released 7 more, appeared on television shows as well as wrote newspaper articles focusing on homemaking (my passion!) She then went on to develop the magazine, Martha Stewart Living and a daily telelvision show. With help, she founded Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia which listed on the New York Stock Exchange in 1999. In January 2004, Martha was charged with securities fraud and obstruction of justice. Stewart paid a fine of $30000, served a 5 month prison and a 5 month home confinement sentence.

Currently, Martha is enjoying the fruits of her big come back proving that there is no such thing as bad publicity. She remains in New York, is no longer married to her husband Andrew but has a daughter, Alexis. Visit her website at: http://www.marthastewart.com/

PROMOTION: Woolworths

THE TASTIEST, FINEST QUALITY MINCE

now R19,95 for 500g (save R10,00)

and R39,90 for 1kg (save R15,00)

Offer valid until 6 June 2010

ADVICE: The "Rules"

Well, Sex and the City 2 arrives on our screens this week and in honour of my ultimate favourite TV/movie character, Charlotte, here are the rules (a book written by Ellen Fein and Sherrie Schneider) she speaks about so often. Some of them interesting, some of them hilarious and not one of them used by me, surprisingly, even though I am ALL about the rules...

RULE #1:

Be a creature unlike any other.

RULE #2:

Show up to parties, dances and social events even if you do not feel like it.

RULE #3:

It's a fantasy unless the man asks you out.

RULE #4:

In an office romance, do not email him back every time he emails you unless it is business related.

RULE #5:

In a long distance relationship, he must visit you at least three times before you visit him.

RULE #6:

When considering whether to use personal ads or other dating services, you should place the ad and let men respond to you.

RULE #7:

If he does not call, he is not that interested. Period.

RULE #8:

Close the deal - Rules women do not date men for longer than two years.

RULE #9:

Buyer beware - observe his behaviour so you do not land up with Mr. Wrong.

RULE #10:

Keep doing the RULES even when things are going slow.

PROMOTION: Pick 'n Pay

Buying bread this week? Head to Pick 'n Pay where you'll be able to buy 2 loaves of Albany bread for only R10,00 - that's a saving of R5,48. Albany is not only yummy but it is endorsed by the heart foundation group, which means it is good for you too! Another great saving is the P'nP Spinach and Mushroom for R29,99 (save R19,00) as well as Monini classico extra virgin olive oil for R79,99 per litre (save R15,00).

RECIPE: A delicious winter meal plan, perfect for entertaining

It's the weekend and if you are like me at all and love entertaining you will enjoy this simple meal plan to spoil your friends and family. As always it is fairly quick and easy. Serves 4 comfortably. The meal consists of:

Spinach, mushroom and avocado salad (celebrating that avo's are in season and not R15,00 each anymore!)

Butternut risotto

"Rack" of lamb

Apple pie (for pudding)

Spinach, mushroom and avocado salad

Fry 1 punnet of sliced mushrooms in a little butter. Add 2 spring onions (sliced) and saute. Season with a little garlic or herbs for a little flavour. Place spinach leaves and 2 sliced and peeled avocado's on a platter. Place mushrooms on top and season with pumpkin seeds and some black pepper.

Butternut risotto

Boil 1/2 cubed butternut until soft in a small pot. Fry butternut shavings (optional) and set aside. Heat a glug of olive oil in a deep pan and fry one finely chopped onion until soft. Add 500ml arborio (risotto) rice and 250ml dry white wine and cook for a minute or two. Pour over 1,5L vegetable stock, add butternut cubes, stir and cover with foil. Bake on 180 degrees C for 15 minutes. Remove foil, stir and back for 35 minutes. Stir through 125 ml grated parmesan, butternut shavings and parsley (optional).

"Rack" of lamb

Place 8 small lamb chops on a grilling rack over a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil and season with rosemary, salt, pepper and garlic (optional). Grill in oven for 15 minutes. Remove from oven, turn over and reseason lamb chops. Place back in oven and grill until lamb starts to crisp but not burn.

Apple Pie

Cream 125g butter and 125ml castor sugar. Add 1 extra large egg and beat until light anf fluffy. Sift 250ml Self Raising Flour and 2ml salt. Fold into butter mixture alternately with 125ml milk. Turn into a greased 23cm pie dish. Arrange a 385g can of sliced pie apples on top of the mixture. Mix 15ml sugar and 3ml ground cinnamon and sprinkle over the apples. Bake in preheated oven at 180 degrees C for 40 minutes. Heat 60ml sugar and 45ml milk, bring to the boil until sugar has melted. Remove from heat and add essence. Pour over apple pie when removed from oven. Serve hot with custard, if desired.

Advice: Make salad. Follow rack of lamb recipe and then reduce oven to 180 degrees C to cook risotto. Put chops back in the oven for a few minutes before serving. Place apple pie in oven while you serve main course. Serve salad with a balsamic dressing and offer white as well as red wine to accompany the meal.

PROMOTION: Clicks

I highly recommend attending the Clicks Electrical SALE from the 11th of May to the 6th of June 2010. Appliances, gadgets, heaters and cell phones all at discounted prices! Clicks also have the following tips on how to make your new purchase last longer:

• Rechargeable shavers or groomers should be fully charged before you first use them.
• Recharge your appliances only when the battery runs out.
• To clean small electricals, make sure they are unplugged first.
• Use a damp cloth with a little detox shampoo to remove any styling product or loose hair to clean your straightener or hair tongs when they are cold or slightly warm.
• Clean waterproof shavers or groomers by rinsing them well under running water and if your product comes with a brush, use it to sweep out hairs.
• Brush out or wipe off dust and hair from your hairdryer motor to make it last longer - remove the foam filter, wash and dry it before putting it back in place.

ANNOUNCEMENT: The link between the TV show HEROES and addicted to discounts

I know you think how... why... what is going on? It is simple really. The shows mind-reading cop, Greg Grunberg, has a new project (he better have seeming that HEROES has now been cancelled *sob*). He has developed a new application, 'Yowza!!!', for your iPhone. Yowza!!! (3 exclamation marks to show just how keen Greg is about his product!!!) is a free application, inspired by twitter in fact, which finds your location and shows you the deals that are in your area. It then opens up a 'mobile coupon' with a barcode that the shop or restaurant you are wanting to use the discount in, can scan. They have "got deals on everything from a nice, new outfit to a lovely, delicious dinner." Being a blackberry convert myself I am off now to try the blackberry version (see logo below) although I am afraid it may only be available in the States - maybe something addicted to discounts needs to bring to the good old boerewors land soon! Imagine 24 hour Woolies updates on your cellphone... For more information go to http://www.getyowza.com/

PROMOTION: Makro

Specials on from 16 May - 24 May 2010

Makro - the home of good deals and bulk buying always has the best prices on appliances and general items for your home. In this weeks pamphlet I especially liked the LG 7kg washing machine for R3599 (a saving of R900), the 37" SAMSUNG Full HD Flat screen for R6499 (save R500), the EPSON 3in1 colour printer for R499 (can you handle that!), the MERIDIAN 4 burner stainless steel gas braai for R4999 (save R1000!) and the SAMSUNG 400l Combi Frost Free Fridge is only R4999 (save R500). To see these deals and more click here to access their online promotional pamphlet.

ANNOUNCEMENT: Why would 'addicted to discounts' be interested in HEROES?

Check back tomorrow to find out why!

PROMOTION: Spar

This week at Spar there are the following specials. I also saw at the Alphen Spar that they have a special on Lindt chocolate balls. The pack of heaven in a red wrapping chocolates are R59,95.

PROMOTION: Wellness Warehouse

My ideal afternoon would be to walk around Cavendish Square in Claremont, Cape Town and see a movie, followed by lunch (my favourite is a lamb and tzatsiki pizza - gotto try it!) and a fresh lemonade at Doppio Zero and then shopping at Wellness Warehouse. I find their shop an experience! So relaxing and a feast for the eyes. Who knew there was so much variety available to the consumer? They specialize in organic products and although they can be a little more expensive than a regular grocery shop, you know that what you are getting is from a good source. The following items are on promotion at the moment until the 13th of June:

Good Hope Super Soy Milk R12,95

Health Connection Rice Milk Powder R62,95

Health Connection Xylitol 5g Sachets R35,95

Health Connection Cereal Coffee Powder R37,95

Spice and all things nice Birchers Muesli with Cinnamon & Coconut R33,95

To visit there website or shop online click on the company logo above or their link on the right hand side of my page.

ADVICE: Tips from the June HOME magazine team

It's gotto be the highlight of my month - indulging in the new HOME magazine and in this months email newsletter they had the following tips to share:

• Do it yourself.


• Paint. And paint again (a wall or a furniture piece); wallpaper a wall or two, reupholster and reuse items in a new way.


• Gather ideas from other homes and gardens - it's the best inspiration for your own home.


• Mix decor styles, and marry old with new - it's hip and personal.


• Trust your instincts or sixth sense.


• Don't shy from making mistakes - sometimes they can offer the greatest inspiration.


• Cook with food from your own garden.


• You don't need a lot of money to beautify your home (we get a kick out of creating something stunning on a tight budget).


• Never stop experimenting.

I find these tips, or mantras as they call them, extrememly useful... Want to know why? BIG announcement coming soon!

PROMOTION: Woolworths

Just been into Woolworths and not only are they having a special on mince and spaghetti (buy 3 packs of pasta and only pay for 2) so you can definitely try out the Spaghetti Bolognaise recipe posted yesterday, but they also have a new "Eat in for 4 under R100" deal. It consists of:

1kg beef lasagne (save R20)
R49,95

heat and eat ciabatta (save R4,00)
R13,95

190g rosa tomato salad (save R4,00)
R12,95

500ml crème caramel (save R4,00)
R13,95

1L sparkling flavoured water (save R2,00)
R6,95




That is a grand total saving of R34,00 which is over half the price of a bunch of Woolworths white roses (R59,99) which live forever and lift your mood every time you see them without adding calories. Check back next week for the next special (who knows you may be able to buy a bunch with your further savings!) Offer valid until Sunday 23 May 2010. Available at selected stores while stocks last, or shop online.