It can be a little pricey here so now is the time to shop at the Brentwood Country Mart at San Vicente and 26th. They are having a semi annual sale that lasts until January 31 and items are up to fifty percent off.  Parking is free, they have a little food court including Barney’s Burgers, Frida’s Mexican Food and Reddi Chick Rotissarie Chicken.

They have some great little boutiques including James Pearse of the super soft t shirts, Jigsaw an established London designer with an eclectic mix, Calypso for clothes and accessories from around the world, and many more. There is a Diesel Book Store where they have free author readings and talks. There is also an adorable little post office that is generally uncrowded. 

Now the hours during the week are only till seven for the food court and six for most of the stores so you might want to check out the sale on Saturday or Sunday. It’s out doors, the food is good – so even if you don’t buy it’s a fun day.

It’s fast and it’s fresh and on Wednesdays Whole Foods gives us a break- the salad and hot food bars are reduced from $7.99 down to $5.99. This is wonderful if you want to make up your own combination.

If you are anywhere near Ocean Park and 29th pop into IlForno Caffe  and get dinner to go for $6. And I’m talking a entree size order of pasta, an entree size salad, or a pizza. Plus they all come with bread.  Now this is take out only, cash only and available from 5:30 to 6:30. Dinner for two for $12 and you didn’t have to turn on the stove.  Did I mention parking is free in the lot. And did I add that the food is fresh and fabulous.  Take a night off, dial 310.450.1241, and they will have your order waiting when you cruise by.

With multiple  locations Zankou Chicken is a life saver. Whose at home? One meat eater, one dieter, one vegan?  Order a steak kebob, roasted chicken wrap, falafel, and tabbouleh and everyone is covered.

In the mood for noodle soup, sushi, or dumplings. Try the Japanese Mitsuwa Marketplace, 3760 Centinela Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90066 , where they have a food court with all kinds of prepared meals.  Your kids are home from school and are now vegetarians - go to  Samosa House and Bharat Bazaar at 11510 W Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066.  They cook only veggie meals ($7.99) and side dishes.

Portos Bakery in Burbank and Glendale has all kinds of Cuban sandwiches and appetizers for a light dinner. And as a bonus, you can pick up one of their yummy desserts. They are open till seven and only take cash.

What if you need an entire meal for a holiday?  Markets now have everything to make you look like the best home cook ever.  Gelsons has a meal for every occasion. How does 2 1/2 pounds Beef Brisket with Julienne Vegetables & Gravy, Chicken Broth & Matzo Balls, Chopped Beef Liver with Egg, Potato Kugel, Tzimmes, Gefilte Fish with straight Horseradish, Charoses, Macaroon Cookies sound for Passover?  How about Corned Beef, Boiled Cabbage, Boiled Carrots, Boiled Potatoes, Salad with Cilantro Dressing, Dinner Roll, Butter & Chocolate Mint for St. Patrick’s Day? These average about $10 to $15 per person for a multi course meal including dessert. And you get to keep the leftovers.

Let me know your favorites and I will add them to the list.

We used to call them foundation garments because you built your wardrobe over them. Now it’s a much more complex relationship. Underwear has become outerwear at times. Underwear has become your ally when you do sports. Underwear comes in more colors and styles that could ever be imagined.

Now I still think of it as a foundation because let’s face it – when your underwear doesn’t fit properly nothing else will go well. Riding up, straps slipping, this is not a way to go through life. Fitted but not binding, minimal pantie lines, comfortable but still on the job. Who knew that Target would be the answer to my dreams. Bras – basics for under t shirts, sports for when you’re bouncing around , fancy for nights when you want them to show, and everything in between – are their business. We all knew that Target was now designer central with fantastic clothes, shoes, and accessories however now we know that this is place to feel like you are truly supported. Let’s hear it for underpants – bikinis, hipsters, thongs (I still don’t get those but each to their own), and granny panties (sometimes you just want a wall of cotton between you and the world).

This is an area where the right size and fit matter – don’t ruin your day by having to tug and reach for areas better left alone. Figure out your favorite styles by going to the store and if they don’t always have your size – sit back on the internet and order without the distraction of having to plow through aisles and aisles. And if you are internet shopping look for a $5 off $50 at Target on couponcabin.com good till March 31, 2010. The discount will be taken at checkout (only online).

 Have fun and look forward showing off your assets.

As divas, we all need a night out and as we know live theater is an unparalleled experience – it is also an expensive experience. That is why I am going to tell you about a theater ticket service in Los Angeles and New York so amazing that no one even believes it exists. Theater Extras allows you unlimited access to a variety of small and large theaters, musical performances, and special events around town. Memberships may be used in either Los Angeles and New York, so if you travel back east, you can use it to see all that they offer there!

Theater Extras has two levels of membership. The Marquis Plan is $99 per year and entitles its subscribers to up to 2 tickets per event. That means you can bring a friend or spouse, return a social or business favor, or ask someone who is a person of interest romantically. Your guest thinks you shelled out big time for tickets while you smile graciously. The Premier Plan is $175 per year and this package includes up to 4 tickets per performance. Both are based on availability. There is a $4 per ticket processing fee, which is automatically charged to your credit card each time an order is placed.  They donate a portion of all processing fees to Broadway Cares and Equity Fights AIDS.

After 2 or 3 shows you have paid for the membership! You check online for new shows and order any time of the day or night. These include plays at the smaller more intimate theaters and some larger venues too. And some weeks there are also musical events, films, and comedy at various sites around town. If something is booked before you have a chance to order just skip to another play on the list or wait and see if it is available on future dates. Print out a confirmation page and present it at the box office for your tickets.

Could this be simpler? You can go as often as you like, alone or with a guest, see one, two, three or four things in the same week. All for less then $9 per month for the Marquis Plan and $15 per month for the Premier Plan plus $4 per ticket. The best part is attending performances that you never would have even known about and being surprised with a spectacular show.

Go to Theater Extras or email manager Justin Okin ( justin@theaterextras.com)  in Los Angeles for more information. And remember this also includes shows in New York where you can reach them at info@theaterextras.com.  Ask about some of the available shows and prepare to be dazzled.

This is one Disney ride you should definitely take . They have a new program Give A Day Get A Disney Day where you volunteer at one of the listed organizations and redeem your good work for a free day at Disney.

Here are some of the basic rules from their website however please check to get all the details. This program began on January 1, 2010 and continues until tickets are distributed or until December 15, 2010, whichever occurs first. Your voucher for a free ticket must be redeemed by December 15, 2010, and used on the same day of redemption. You must be at least 18 to sign up and children must be at least six to participate. And it is one ticket per person regardless of how many times your volunteer.

Now this is the kind of opportunity that works for everyone. Worthy causes have a great way to get volunteers and you feel great helping others. In the Los Angeles area there are over a 1000 organizations listed. Check your zip code and see what is needed in your area.

Now divas, I know what you are thinking. Do I really want a free day at Disney? Well you have the opportunity to be generous twice. Your free day can be donated to a charity.

How to discribe Tuesday Morning?

The most interesting yard sale in the world, going through the home of an eclectic shopper, or a surprise every time you shop. All of the above applies. There are not many places that have Chantal cookware, a pet stroller for your puppy, electric patio heater, and an iPod music system for your listening pleasure.  And at a sizable discount. They shop the world for discontinued brands, colors, and styles so that  you can wander among the goodies and find what you need. 

This is truly treasure hunting. One time you might find a vortex heater, a telescope, and diamond earrings. The next time none of these however there would be a gorgeous rug, a men’s Lucien Picard watch, and a great blender. They usually have selections in kitchenware, bed and bath, home furnishings, children’s toys, luggage, stationary and all manners of small gifts. 

They are a 700 store national chain so check them out for unusual items you might not see at a discount any where else. My favorite local one is at 901 Santa Monica Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90401, (310) 899-1569.

Just when I thought that everything had been done in the way of markets in comes a new kid on the block.  A little organic, a little convenience, a little gourmet grocery,  and a whole of savings.  There are so many wonderful Fresh & Easy products.  A bag of  frozen turkey meatballs this week for $5.99.  Add some tomato sauce, serve over pasta (99 cents this week), and open a bag of salad greens. That’s fresh, that’s easy.

Now if you want to get really, really easy and still stay really, really fresh.  We are talking about around $2.49 per person for lasagna with meat sauce to keep in your freezer. Cheaper then fast food and better for you.

Every week there are 98 cent produce packs.  Add a little excitement and use them in your cooking.  One week they had onions and red and green peppers. You can julienne slice them, saute, add some capers and olives. Set aside while you pan fry some tilapia and you have a nicoise style topping for your fish. Pick a pack of pears and pair with an interesting cheese for dessert. 

Yes I did say they are a little gourmet.  Pick up organic teas, fresh juices, fresh baked goods, wine (not at all stores), cheeses, balsamic vinegar along with fresh produce, fish, and meat on your way home.  And they have great sauces – Thai Chili Lime, Smokey Barbecue- and a good selection of spices.  Even pet food for your pooch.  So much good stuff in such a manageable size market.

You can also sign up for the email newsletter where you get weekly updates on specials and coupons. And please remember that all quoted prices are subject to change.

Smaller then a supermarket, more fresh food then a convenience store-this chain is a winner for the Frugal Diva.

Disclaimer: Fresh and Easy occasionally sends The Frugal Diva samples of their products.

The Frugal Divas likes to know that they are getting the best deal possible and with travel there are so many options.  However who has the time to track every price change. And once you book who even wants to think about the fares and rates.  That’s why for airline tickets and hotels  Yapta.com is a great idea.

At no cost to you, they track prices and let you decide if this is a good deal. I’m going to quote from their website since they explain it so well. “Yapta is intended to help you get a handle on fluctuating travel prices so that you know when to “buy low”. Yapta conducts daily price checks on the specific flights and hotels that you choose, and alerts you when prices drop or when they fall within your budget.”

Plus they will let you know when a price drops after you have purchased. More valuable information from their website:

“Already booked an airline ticket? Yapta can still help you save. Most U.S. airlines have “guaranteed airfare” policies that enable you to claim a travel credit if the price of your flight drops after booking it. Not many people know that the policy even exists – nor do they bother to check the price of their flight after purchasing it. Yapta will track the price of the flights you’ve already booked and – if the price drops below what you paid – it will alert you when you’re eligible for a refund or travel credit from the airline.”

This is a great service for those who are overwhelmed by the myriad of prices and restrictions out there. Bon voyage!

Those novels you read three years ago, the shirt you haven’t worn for five years, the toys your college bound student won’t need, and the sheets for a single bed that you don’t own anymore. Sound familiar. We all put things away for a rainy day or because they remind us of a favorite time. 

This is a great time of year to reorganize, declutter, donate, and stash stuff  in boxes for a future yard sale.

In fairness to yourself before selling or donating anything that you feel might be worth something check the ebay price of the same or similar item.

If you feel something is very valuable check with a professional auction house. Bonhams Auction House opens its doors once a month so that they can assist you in appraising your property. Is it treasure or trash?  They are a neutral party who can provide an auction value estimate. They limit you to five items and the service is free. In Los Angeles they are located at 7601 Sunset Blvd or call 800 223 2854 for more information.  This is a fun experience regardless of the value. They treat you well and let you know if there is any historical information about your item.

If you decide to go forward witha yard sale here are some good rules to follow:

Put a price on all items! You can have individual prices or grab bags where everything in the bag goes for a set price. Put stickers on everything and you can also segregate areas for different prices. All fifty cent items on one table. Remember nobody comes to yard sale to send big bucks. Everything you sell is one thing you don’t have to carry back into the house.

Don’t let early arrivers throw you off. Post a sign that says when you start and don’t let anyone into your home. You want good coverage so if you don’t have enough family members, invite friends to help out or sell stuff along with you. If you can get your neighbors to join in – all the better.  Everyone has a unique inventory so the more the merrier.

Get change the day before and post that you will only give change up to $10.  Most yard sale shoppers know the drill and will come with appropriate coinage.  Since many items will be $.10 or $.25, get a few packs of quarters, dimes, and nickels plus twenty to  fifty in singles. Keep your cash on you or with a helper who is designated the cashier. 

Feel free to sell sodas or lemonade for a modest price. This is a great learning experience for small children. Let them set up a stand and feel they are part of the experience.

Now to let people know about your sale.  Many local papers have free listings, put it up on bulletin boards at your grocery store, school, church, and gym, and post signs at all major intersections in your neighborhood. Many people still drive around looking for yard sales and a neon colored paper will attract attention.

And the most important thing about a yard sale, have fun, watch your stuff enhance another person’s life, and make a few dollars in the process.

Yes, there are many places to spend big bucks in Malibu however enjoy this beautiful town for an afternoon and spend less then $20 for a day vacation. The Adamson House Tour  is a guided tour through the house which contains its original furnishings and is decorated with the renowned Malibu Potteries tile. Trained volunteer docents relate the history of the house, details of its architecture and furnishings, and the history of the family that lived in and created this distinctive home. And what does this all cost -$5.00 per person includes a house tour. 

The Malibu Lagoon Museum adjoins the Adamson House and contains a collection of artifacts, rare photographs and documents depicting the colorful history of Malibu. The museum tour takes the visitor from the early Chumash Indian era through the Spanish California culture. Here is an excellent opportunity to relive the genteel and romantic ranching days of the famed Rindge and Adamson families. Learn about dramatic episodes in Malibu’s rich history: the Malibu Railroad; the 17-year legal battle over a Malibu highway; the Malibu movie colony; the Malibu Dam, and much, much more. Admission to the Museum is free.

Take a walk through the Cross Creek Malibu Country Mart outdoor shopping center (the parking is free). Now there are a lot of upscale places in Malibu however there are many great choices for the Frugal Divas among us. Malibu Howdy’s Taqueria in Cross Creek village has counter service and most items on the menu are under $10 and they are fantastic. Great tacos, great salads, and great breakfasts if you get there before eleven thirty.  There is a Starbucks for those just in the mood for caffeine and a snack. 

Travel about a mile and a half further up the coast and try Malibu Seafood Company  (they have a free parking lot) on PCH. Counter service with most items around $10 (I had an out of this world ahi tuna burger with fries for $8.95), grilled seafood dinners around $15. They have their own parking lot. Fabulous location across the street from the beach. Go to the upper deck seating for the best ocean view.

Beautiful museum, enjoy the laid back atmosphere, walk where the stars really shop, and great food all make Malibu a fun day away for Los Angelenos in need of an ocean view and a relaxed atmosphere.