1. email -- you can send a message to anyone, no stamp, immediate delivery, for free!
2. library -- it's not just that you can get some books at the library, but you can often get the very one book that you want. Case in point -- when my daughter and I were vintage shopping for business ideas a month ago, my daughter saw a book that intrigued her. She spent several minutes browsing through that book. I took notice, thinking I would buy this book on Amazon as a Christmas gift for her. When I came home, I looked it up on Amazon, then had a thought, "hmmm, I should really check the library's database for this first. I could still surprise her with the book, on loan." Sure enough, our library's system had the very book on the shelf in anther branch. I had it sent to my local branch and picked it up later that week. My daughter was thrilled to see that book sitting on the kitchen table for her.
3. youtube -- and other video sites. I use youtube to find music that I hear on the radio and want to listen to again. I also amuse myself with funny cat videos and other junky stuff. When I'm in a serious mode, I use youtube for self-help and instructional videos. Free entertainment and self-improvement!
4. e-coupons on the grocery store's website -- I can load coupons onto my loyalty card to use in store, without buying a newspaper to get coupons. Some of the e-coupons allow for multiple use on the same coupon/purchase (like 5 jars of applesauce or peanut butter, getting the discount on all 5).
5. journals/notepads on digital devices -- no need for paper or pen. I can write till my heart is content.
6. online sudoku games -- I use these as concentration boosters a couple of times per day. Once upon a time, I actually spent money on sudoku and crossword puzzle books.
7. online bill paying, again no stamp, and stamps are getting pricey! Bonus, the payment is made immediately, preventing late charges when I am absentminded.
8. free shipping with online shopping. Not only do I get to shop while still in my pj's, I save gas, avoid crowds, and on many items I get a lower price if I shop around.
9. tap water to drink in restaurants. On a chilly day, I've ordered a cup of hot water to sip with a meal. And nothing quenches thirst better on a scorching day than a cup of ice water.
10. Walking for exercise. No special equipment, except feet. You can walk indoors in wintry weather, or outdoors on trails in the local parks or just in your own neighborhood when the weather is pleasant.
11. bonus freebie, linked to above -- public parks, as playgrounds for kids, walking trails for all, picnic spot for alfresco lunches, or grassy expanse for games.
Your turn -- what have been some of your favorite recent freebies?
