Frugal Family: Short Stack, Bombs Away, Tax Help and More

There are many ways to save money and not all of them involve making sacrifices.  Have child-care experience?  Barter with a neighbor to do some babysitting in exchange for house sitting when you and the family go on vacation—a fair deal for both parties and invaluable peace of mind.

This week, Frugal Family scoured local sources to come up with great deals on food, drink and services.  Enjoy the freebies and pay it forward when you can.  It's true that we get what we put out there. 

1. International House of Pancakes

Deal: Celebrate IHOP's National Pancake Day with a free stack of three buttermilk pancakes.  Consider a reciprocal gesture and make a donation to help fund the Children's Miracle Network Hospitals.

Good through: 10 p.m. on March 1

2. Ninja Sushi

Deal: Get your drink on for under a dollar:  Enjoy a $.99 Sake Bomb after 5 p.m. with the purchase of a roll or entree.  

Good through: Ongoing Tuesdays and Fridays. 

3. Strings Pizzeria

Deal: Need to feed many mouths?  Your own Brady Bunch will profit at Happy Hour from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. daily with beers for $1.99 (just Mom and Dad) and appetizer specials, too.

Good through: Ongoing.

4. Rosemont Community Association

Deal: Here's an offer you CAN refuse, but wouldn't want to: Receive a free medium pepperoni pizza from when you make a $3 donation to RCA's Scholarship Fund.  Print out ad from website.

Good through: March 15, 2011.

5. Rancho Cordova Library

Deal: If you're a low-income senior who needs tax assistance, AARP is hosting a free tax session to answer your questions and help with returns.  Call branch to book your appointment on the actual day. 

Good through: Tuesdays except the third Tuesday of each month, until mid-April.