Boot Camp For You, Day Camp For Your Dog & Books For The Kids

I think it is safe to say that spring has finally sprung! And, what better time to take advantage of the deal that Premier Fitness in Algonquin is offering.

If you are in need of some doggie daycare the deal from Good Dog Academy in Woodstock, comes highly recommended by fellow Patch readers.

Scholastic Inc. is having their biggest book sale of the year. This event occurs throughout the United States, generally right after their spring school book fairs. Traditionally, they sell books from their most current offerings at a discounted price while older or slightly damaged books and gifts can be found at discounts all the way up to 80 percent off their normal retail price.

Be sure to read through this entire column in order to get my tips on increasing your savings.

As always, remember to check with the merchant for additional details.

Frugal finds to help your bottom line:

1. Premier Fitness Solutions, Algonquin

Deal: $77 for 30 days of targeted total body training boot camp. Regularly priced at $340, this is a great deal for less than $3 per day. Go to this link to purchase the deal.
Valid: Purchase through May24, 2011. Certificate valid until May 24, 2012

2. , Woodstock

Deal: one free daycare day with two prepaid days.  Also includes a private doggie manners training session.  Get coupon .
Valid: For initial visits only. Coupon good through May 31, 2011

3. Scholastic Inc., multiple Chicago area locations

Deal: Annual blowout warehouse sales. See the Scholastic link for coupons and read this entire column for more details.
Valid:  May 5 - May 18 on select days at specific locations.

Frugal tips to further your savings:

As I write this, the price of gasoline is probably going up. The nearest Scholastic sale event is approximately 20 miles away, in Bloomingdale.  Therefore, I would be remiss in telling you to take a 40 mile round trip to save a bit of money without giving you additional tips to maximize your savings.

1.) By bringing a friend (or three) along you can share the cost of gas!

2.) Combine your purchases to get a larger discount with the coupons.

3.) You will have a ‘live’ search assistant to help with tracking down that one Captain Underpants volume that ‘someone’ lost between school and home (You know the one that was later found when the snow-bank out in front finally melted).

I have taken advantage of these Scholastic sales for the past few years. It is a great way to stock up on hugely discounted items for my gift cache. When I can find an incredible deal on quality items, I will purchase a few to put away for future use. That way, I always have something on hand for a last minute birthday present or a just-because gift. 

Be sure to look at the accompanying photo of a few of my purchases from the last Scholastic sale that I attended.