How to Save Money with a Gift Closet

Posted on March 12, 2014 by Mara Strom

If you're a regular reader of KOAB, you've no doubt seen me write the following dozens of times: "This is a great price. Grab it for your gift closet." But what exactly is a gift closet? And what's the rationale behind spending money today on toys, … [Read more...]

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Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Is Tomorrow, May 11th! (Leave Non-Perishable Items for Your Mail Carrier to Collect)

Posted on May 10, 2013 by Mara Strom

Did you know that one in six Americans is facing hunger, including 14 million children? While most of you are in the middle of Shabbat prep, I wanted to let you know that tomorrow (May 12) is Stamp Out Hunger Day, which is a great opportunity to … [Read more...]

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6 Tips for Fitting Stockpiling Into Your Budget

Posted on May 8, 2013 by Mara Strom

I'm reprising an old post today since this is a question I hear frequently from my readers: How do you afford to stockpile all those good deals? Especially if your grocery budget is already stretched to the max with your weekly list? Here's one … [Read more...]

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Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Is Tomorrow! Leave Cans for Your Mail Carrier to Collect

Posted on May 11, 2012 by Mara Strom

Did you know that one in six Americans is facing hunger, including 14 million children? I know most of you are in the throws of Shabbat prep, but I wanted to remind you that tomorrow (May 12) is Stamp Out Hunger Day. Here's how it works: Just … [Read more...]

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A Reminder about the Importance of Strategic Stockpiling

Posted on June 30, 2011 by Mara Strom

I was at Target earlier today and wanted to pick up that great deal on Edy's ice cream. It is on sale for $2.99, normally around $4.50 - and when you buy five, you get a $5 Target gift card. Even without a single coupon, that's just $1.99 each … [Read more...]

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The Stocking Up Principle, Part 4: How I Handle Birthday Gifts

Posted on September 13, 2010 by Mara Strom

I'm back talking about stocking up in advance again! Whether it's toiletries or tomato sauce, stocking up when prices hit rock bottom is one of the best ways to lower your out of pocket expenses over the long run. Today I wanted to show you how I … [Read more...]

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The Stocking Up Principle, Part 3: Giving More Generously

Posted on September 2, 2010 by Mara Strom

Welcome to part 3 of the Stocking Up Principle series. So far, I've told you how stocking up in advance can cut your grocery budget in half and I've tried to convince you that stocking up is not the same thing as hoarding. Today's bonus lesson is how … [Read more...]

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The Stocking Up Principle, Part 2: Stocking Up Is Not the Same as Hoarding

Posted on September 1, 2010 by Mara Strom

I watched the A&E show Hoarders once. I had to turn it off after about 15 minutes, because I was becoming physically ill. My husband is constantly freaking out about stuff that I've thrown away, given away or recycled. I am one of the least … [Read more...]

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The Stocking Up Principle, Part 1: How To Cut Your Grocery Budget in Half

Posted on August 30, 2010 by Mara Strom

One of the best ways to see some really significant savings in your grocery budget is to stock up on products that your family uses regularly, when these products reach your "buy it now" price. What is a 'buy it now' price? Hopefully you have … [Read more...]

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