Soto Law Group - September 2020

3WAYS TO SAVE ON TRENDY BACK-TO-SCHOOL BUYS Shop Online Like a Pro

2. ALWAYS CHECK DISCOUNT APPS AND WEBSITES.

Shopping online is tricky in the best of times, but it’s doubly trying when your kids’ opinions are involved. If back-to-school shopping is challenging in your house, try these tricks to hunt down the backpack, pencil bag, and lunchbox the kiddos are begging for without going over budget.

If you’re not at least Googling “[store name] coupon code” before checking out online, you’re probably missing out on big savings. Visit popular coupon websites like RetailMeNot and Groupon, or streamline your search by downloading a money-saving browser extension or app like Honey, which automatically checks for coupon codes and offers price comparisons. Other apps, like Flipp, let you view deals from dozens of stores in one place. Remember to see if your favorite store has its own app, too — downloading it could grant you access to exclusive deals.

1. OPT FOR SECONDHAND OR REFURBISHED ITEMS.

If your kid is dying to have the same Parkland Kingston Plus Backpack that celebrities’ kids were flaunting last year, you might be able to snag one secondhand for half the price. The same goes for the popular PLAE Max Shoes or even electronics like iPads. Check out online retailers like JemJem or Gazelle for refurbished electronics, and try the Poshmark app for bags, shoes, and clothes. If you really want to get fancy, visit TheRealReal.com for luxury-brand clothing.

discounts. Many websites offer free or reduced shipping for first-time customers or orders over a certain dollar amount. If you choose to shop somewhere without such a discount, check the shipping costs and factor them into your budget before you shop to avoid nasty surprises. If your kids are old enough, consider talking them through this process as you shop. Who knows, this could be a great back-to-school lesson in budgeting!

3. DON’T FORGET TO FACTOR IN SHIPPING.

If you shop internationally, shipping can sometimes double the cost of an order. To save money, choose domestic retailers and check each website or app for shipping specials and

Take a Break!

Balsamic Marinated Flank Steak

Ingredients

• • • • •

2 garlic cloves, sliced

1 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for grilling

1 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves

1 tbsp dried oregano

• • •

1 3-lb flank steak Kosher salt, to taste

2 tbsp whole-grain mustard 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar

Freshly ground pepper, to taste

Directions 1.

Combine garlic, rosemary, oregano, mustard, and vinegar in a blender. Purée until garlic is minced. Add oil and continue blending until creamy, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Reserve 1/4 cup. Place steak in a ceramic or glass baking dish and cover steak with the remaining marinade. Turn to coat the other side, cover, and let marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours.

4.

Remove steak from marinade and let excess marinade drip off. Sprinkle the steak lightly with salt and pepper. Light grill and oil grates with olive oil. Grill steak over moderate heat for 10–12 minutes, turning halfway through, until steak is lightly charred and the internal temperature reaches 125 F. Let the steak rest for 5 minutes. Thinly slice, drizzle reserved sauce, and serve.

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ASTER AUTUMN CHILLY COLORFUL

EDUCATION FOOTBALL HARVEST LABOR

LIBRA SAPPHIRE SEPTEMBER SQUASH

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Inspired by FoodAndWine.com

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