Hi everyone! I mentioned last month that I would be having another book give away. This month I’m giving a way a copy of Tracey McBride’s fabulous book Frugal Luxuries by the Seasons (Celebrate Holidays with Elegance and Simplicity on Any Income) and Jonni McCoy’s Miserly Moms (Living Well on Less in a Tough Economy -revised edition).
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links to Amazon and/or Etsy, which means that I may earn a small commission from some of the links in this post. Please see our Disclosure Page for more information.
Tracey’s book shows you how to live beautifully and celebrate the seasons on a small income. The book is divided by Part I – Spring’s Promise, Part II – Enchanted Summer, Part III – The Still Small Voice of Autumn and Part IV-The Magic and Majesty of Winter. Some people say she’s a bridge between The Tightwad Gazette books and Martha Stewart! Her books have had a huge influence on me and I’m honored that she stops by this blog now and then. She also has her own wonderful blog Frugal Luxuries by The Seasons.
I chose Miserly Moms to give away because even though I admire Amy Dacyczyn and the The Tightwad Gazette, but that’s not how I live my life or want to live my life. Jonni was a working mom who lived in San Francisco when she originally wrote this book and quit her job to be a stay at home Mom. She looked at frugality as way to achieve that goal. Some people are naturally frugal and enjoy it and some people do it just because they have to. I don’t particularly enjoy it – even though it’s second nature to me at this point in my life. But when we have extra money I generally revert to my non-frugal ways! So I really could relate to Jonni more than Amy. All the advice she gives are things she has done herself. Go to her website for more info Miserly Moms. *In this revised edition, she starts off with a whole chapter of stories about women who stopped working outside the home to be home full-time. So I would just skip that chapter if you don’t think along those same lines. The rest is full of practical advice. Plus, she really did update it and has changed and added things.
Both books are full of wonderful ideas and even recipes! As always, please feel free to enter even if you have the books – they make wonderful gifts!
Just leave a comment on this post and I’ll post the winner Tuesday morning. Next month is another book give away and December’s is an Amazon GC so you can get whatever book you want. Just my way of saying thank you to all who stop by and read my blog. You don’t need a blog to enter, you do need to leave me an email addy if you don’t have a blog. I hope you all have a great weekend!
Anonymous says
Thank You so much for your blog, I try to read it everyday, it is so nice to see new and creative ideas. Thanks again.
Renee
Alison Gibbs says
What great books you have for your giveaway
Have a wonderful weekend
Alison
Southerner says
I read Miserly Moms when it first came out. I loved that she was living in a wealthy area. We didn't have a lot of money in our early marriage but you don't have to look like it. She will really help with realistic things to do that don't make you look cheap.
southerninspiration says
your blog is always so refreshing, Manuela! I love your style, and your "sense and sensibilities"!!! 🙂
Suzanne
Kathleen Grace says
You know I'm a big fan of your writing and decorating ideas! These books look great, please sign me up for the give-away:>)
Chrissie Grace says
Oh, I would enjoy both of these.
Have a great weekend!
Katy~The Country Blossom says
I would love, love, love to win these!!! 🙂 Thank you for the chance!!!!
Carol says
Manuela,
Thank you for the giveaway. I'd love to read those books. I'm really new to your blog, and so far I love what I see! I used your idea to put our family's initial on a pumpkin and it turned out great. Thanks for the idea.
Blessings,
Carol
sheista says
Thanks!
I just found your blog and am loving it!
Andrea @ Big Creek Cottage says
I would love to read these books. Thank you for the fantastic give a way…..
Kathy says
These look like great books. I will definitely have to check them out. I love your blog!
Kathy
[email protected]
Stephanie @ La Dolce Vita says
These books look great! What a timely idea for this economy!
Tina Leigh says
Well please count me in! I love the picture you posted!
Manuela says
They both look like interesting books!
Thank you!
Beth says
Who doesn't love a good giveaway?! I'd love to read these books.
Amanda says
Great books. I think I could learn a thing or two after reading these! Thanks, and happy weekend!
Tricia Anne says
Good Morning.
Your corn and ribbon looks so pretty.
Sincerely ~ Tricia Anne
cindy@cottage instincts says
Beautiful indian corn hanging on your cabinet door. I love all the touches you add to your home…such inspiration for so many of us. I've not read either of those books, so I'd love to have a chance to win. I'll also add it to my giveaway link on my blog.
peace.
Lisa says
Great giveaway books. Your home is beautiful. I love looking at your blog and seeing your creative ideas. Have a wonderful weekend.
Lisa
Anna says
Can I take part in your giveaway even if I an an Italian blogger?Say yes,please!I love your blog and reading English books.Ciao!
Denise says
Thank you for taking the time to blog. I LOVE to visit and see what you've been up to.
Enjoy a lovely fall weekend!
Ursula says
What great book choices!
Thanks for the opportunity…….
Ursula at [email protected]
Blue Creek Home says
Great blog, great book give-away!
Thanks
Rhonda
Julie says
Looks like some great books!
Happy Fall!
Marla says
Manuela, these books look like great reads. Thanks for this opportunity. Marla
Pat@Back Porch Musings says
Wonderful giveaway Manuela!!
Alissa says
what a great giveaway! i have started to be more frugal out of need…i found tracey's blog before i needed it. such great ideas!
Lee Laurie says
I would love to win these books! Matter of fact, I NEED to read these books. LOL I have been thinking about what it would be like to be a stay at home Mom. I have worked ever since I was 14 years old and now I am 43. My little boys begs me to stay home. Maybe these books could help me with some ideas.
I love your blog! I love your home! Thanks for having the great giveaway!
Hugs,
Lee Laurie
Cyndi's Re-Creations says
Would love to have a chance to win these books!
Thanks again for the time that you dedicate to making a great blog.
Lorri says
I always enjoy your blog! Please enter me in your contest. Love Miserly moms, but have never read the book. I have all of the Tightwad books.
Lorri
Pen Pen says
I have never read the Jonni McCoy book, but used to love Amy Dacyczyn's books… although I could never live "her' way. I would love to read an update on her now that she has been out of the spotlight for so long… wonder what she is up to?
Betsy says
Thanks Manuela ~ you are so sweet! Both of these books look just great!
Anonymous says
Would love these books! Love your blog!!
Joni
Love the Decor! says
I think my collection needs these 🙂
I love your blog and enjoy visiting with you and learning from your wonderful style
the lady of the house says
Wahoo! I'm excited! They both look WAY Helpful and entertaining! I'm a stay-at-home mom and my husband works for a nonprofit, so I'm sure you can imagine just how creative I have to be in every financial aspect PLUS we have #2 little boy due around the corner so things are going to get a lot more creative BUT we love it! and I take pride in being frugal!!!
Paula says
Awesome. I'd love to be entered!
Hope says
I would love to be entered!
Marti says
What a great giveaway! I have been looking for Frugal Luxuries (at half-price books of course) ever since I first read it on your blog.
Casa Mia * My House * says
Oh Manuela, these are great books. Enjoy your weekend!
Marle Pierce says
O those would be so great to have! What a great giveaway idea! Sign me up pleeease.
Marle
Susan says
Cool! Awesome give away! I'm a newer follower of your blog – found you last week or so, and I am enjoying reading (the archives, too). I'd love to be entered in the drawing. susan dot fairchild at gmail dot com
Gracie says
I just recently found your blog and I love stopping by! Your home is beautiful and inspiring. I went to Goodwill the other day after reading your blog!
Books look great! Thanks!
Farmgirl Paints says
Sign me up! Looks like a great read. Have a great weekend Manuela:)
Christine says
Great reviews.
I want to read them even if I don't win!!
My Shabby Rose Cottage says
What a great blog! I'll add myself to your Followers…and also to my blog. WHat a nice giveaway!! Very sweet of you.
Warm Hugs,
Linda
Rechelle ~Walnuthaven Cottage~ says
GM Manuela! I would love to be entered into your drawing. I'm a pretty frugal person, even when I don't have to be. I guess it's 2nd nature because of the way I was raised. I'm always interested in new ideas on how to be frugal so these books may be up my alley 🙂
Julian says
love your blog. So frugal yet fresh and inspiring!
Thanks, Christina
starstruck646 says
Your blog is beautiful and gracious. I get a warm feeling each time I read it.
Plain Ol' Vanilla says
Hi Manuela,
Your blog is fairly new to my blog list and it's been fun to check in to see what ideas you so graciously share here.
I'd love the books to share with and bless my young married daughter.
Thank you Manuela for your inspiration!
Joyce
Joan J says
I'm new to your blog, but I will definitely be back frequently. I've spent nearly an hour here, thoroughly enjoying myself and picking up lots of tips along the way. Thanks for a great giveaway!
Julie says
That books sounds really cool. After deciding not to go back to work until the kids are in school, I need all the frugal tips I can get. Thanks for the givaway.
Anonymous says
I found your blog a while back and enjoy it very much. What a great give away. Roberta
[email protected]
Marlana says
I love a great giveaway! I have heard of Miserly Moms, but never read either book. I, too, could not follow the ways of the Tightwad Gazette. I may be frugal, but I draw the line at a few things. 🙂 Thanks for the opportunity!
Linda says
First time I've posted, but want to enter the giveaway AND tell you how much I enjoy your creativity. We used to live in Marietta and how I miss The Classy Flea and other fun places to shop! Thanks for a chance to see what creative thing you are up to next.
Christina says
What a generous giveaway. Please count me in, thanks.
Salsa Mama says
Wow, this sounds great! I'm going to check out her blog. Thanks!!
{ L } says
Book giveaways are too fun. I can't get enough of good books. Thank you so much for doing this!
Sherri S says
So interested in the first one with your review! I am going to check out her blog. Anything frugal idea wise is totally me! Thanks for the sweet giveaway.
Wendy says
I love your blog so much. I feel so happy and inspired after visiting. I love toile too! What a great giveaway. Ü
ButterYum says
Hi – wonderful giveaway. Have you ever checked out any of Mary Hunt's books? She's the founder of the Cheapskate Weekly/monthly/gazette, and related cheapskate books.
Mindy Nelson says
I really love your blog and would be so excited to win the books! Thanks for inspiring me!
scrappy quilter says
I've read both. I loved both books by Tracey McBride in fact Frugal Luxuries is one my all time favorite books. Don't enter me in the giveway….just wanted to comment what a wonderful giveaway.
Can't wait to see who wins.
Mrs.Rabe says
Fun! I would love to have these books! We all need the kind of encouragement and ideas these books bring!
Lorrie says
I'm fairly new to your blog and enjoying it immensely. Through you I found Tracey McBride and will be looking for her books in the library. Your giveaway is wonderful – thank you.
Have a superb weekend!
Lorrie
Camille says
I love coming by for a "visit"…you post such lovely pictures and it feels "peaceful" here…so pretty and inspiring!
Blessings,
Camille
Melissa Miller says
You always have such nice and generous giveaways Manuela!
Thank you so much for your sweet visit today. I'm so glad you like our new drapes! We are just thrilled with them too.
They were one of those projects that has me wondering why I waited so long to replace them.
~Happy Fall! ~Melissa 🙂
Pennysue says
I am always looking for ways to make life a little more special without having to spend a lot of money. I would enjoy both books, thank you! Blessings!
Cara says
Great book choices for the giveaway! I've added them both to my Amazon wishlist after reading your reviews, but I'd love to win too! 🙂 Love your blog!
Hey Jellisy says
These sound wonderful. As a new mom, I am learning all about more for less.
Jacki says
Ooh, me, pick me!! Ha. They sound really good.
Audrey says
Boy, I need those books! I am trying to avoid all non necessary spending and it is going well, but I need some fresh inspiration. Thanks!
Audrey
[email protected]
Meghan says
how great is this giveaway!
julie & joe says
What a great give away!!!
Barb~Bella Vista says
Manuela, these are wonderful books…enter me please.
Oh, I love your outdoor Fall decorations on the post below. Woweeeee!!
Barb ♥
misskp says
Both books look like wonderful fun! Thanks for offering the chance to win!
Maddie says
I'm totally inspired by your blog and your great book choices for your giveaway. I plan on posting a link on my blog.
Mary Ann says
Thanks for the chance to win! I haven't read either book so it would be wonderful to win!
Nancy says
I am a new follower of your blog and I anxiously look forward to each new post with all of the beautiful pictures. I have even used a few of your decorating ideas for my home.
She'sSewPretty says
Manuela, I'm so glad you stopped by today! I wore out my Tightwad Gazette. I will definitely look for those two books and check that website. I am always looking for ways to save money. Thanks for the info!
A Dusty Frame says
beautiful giveaway:)
Thank you for entering me.
Lizzie
Anonymous says
i read you every day and love your creativity thanks for sharing with us! marianne
Sue says
I would love to win both of these books!! My husband and I just had a "family meeting" to see if there's a way that I could at least work part-time. I could be home more to do the things I love to do….take care of my sweet, devoted husband, dogs and "grown" children!!
Kim @ Starshine Chic says
I love your blog. I would continue to follow you even without a giveaway. But it's a nice bonus.
Laura says
Hi Manuela-
Sign me up!
These sound like wonderful, real world books.
Your blog has inspired me to be a better steward of what I have.
Thank you for that,
Laura
Terri and Bob says
That is a great giveaway!
Thank you for your comment, it is sucha great thing to know!
Laurie says
Both these books sound very interesting – I will definitely check to see if my library has them!
Laurie S.
Amber says
Wow! I have a copy of Miserly Moms. It's the older edition, but it's great! This newer edition would be wonderful for my sister who currently works full-time but is trying to figure out how to make it work if she quit her job to be at home with her daughter. I would love to read the "Frugal Luxuries" book (can't remember the exact name of the title.) That sounds very interesting! Thanks for this great giveaway! In my opinion, one can never own too many books!
Richella says
Manuela, thank you for this giveaway! Your money-saving advice is always good, because it is so real. I am a huge fan of Amy's, but you're right: her life is so very different from the way I actually live. I give her credit for getting me to "think outside the box" about frugality, but it's good to have some advice that's more in tune for my actual life. That's what you provide! So if these books are inspiring to you, I'm betting they'd be inspiring to me. Thank you for offering them!
ShelliRae says
I love your blog! What great books- thanks for the giveaway.
kjquilts says
Those look like interesting books. I'd love to enter your giveaway!
fiveblessings farm says
Manuela,
Thank you for taking time to post such informative items on your blog. Great pictures too. Bless you, Paula
Carla says
I'd love to win one of your books!
glorv1 says
Hi Manuela, just popped in to say hi and enjoy your Sunday.
ness says
they both sound like great books!
i hope i win:)
Anonymous says
Hi! I'd love to win the books, but even if I don't, they'll go on my list of books to look for in the thrift store and secondhand bookstore!
Unfortunately, I can't figure out how to leave my email address without giving it to the world, which I prefer not to do.
Nonetheless, thank you for your generosity.
Donna in CO
Brenda says
Thanks for a chance to win these books. I think the second one would be helpful for my youngest daughter who is a single mother.
elisha says
I just recently started reading your blog. I truly appreciate your style. 🙂
[email protected]
Tami says
these books are right up my alley! i have wanted miserly moms for awhile now especially! and i love frugal luxuries too!
diXymiss says
Two of my favorite titles for frugul inspiration. Please count me in for a chance to win ~ thanX!
Lyn says
I love Jonni yet I love Amy D. too – different perspectives that are helpful in one's frugal journey. I think Tracey gives a whole different frugal way of thinking too. These are wonderful books, I would love to be added, thank you.
Peggyann says
What a great idea for a give-away. I am looking for inspiration to be more frugal.
Debbie says
Please enter me! Thanks so much!
Rhonda in OK says
I love Tracey's blogs but I've never read any of her books.
Thanks for hosting.
Ally0005 says
Seems the weather turned out ok this week-end, hope you got a lot done. We traveled to the pumpkin patch.
Ally
Utah Grammie says
I'd love to enter your darling (and timely) give-away! Thanks for the chance!
Paula says
Dear Manuela,
What a wonderful giveaway! Your photo is lovely… your home is always so beautiful and welcoming!
You are so right about red paint taking a lot of coats to get that rich color. It is worth it, though, as it is so pretty. I am really happy with it.
I hope you are having a good weekend!!!
Love, Paula
WSU Laura says
Just came here through Madras Matters. Love what you did outside and was wondering what font you used for your initial? Also what you did with your monogrammed silverware was fabulous. I will be coming back for more of your great ideas.
Carol says
These look like great books, and what a great giveaway!
Sarah says
Hi there, I'm a new visitor to your blog and I love it! I love books too! The books seem like they would come in handy these days.
Krissy says
The books look so fantastic! The book Jonni wrote sounds like the story of my life.
Your blog is beautiful, and I really enjoy reading it. It inspires me to make my house more of a home. Thanks!
Jennifer Millett says
Oh wow! Being able to stay home is a lifelong dream of mine and anything I can learn to work toward that endeavor is important to me. Manuela I love your blog. You are so creative and an inspiration.
Jennifer
[email protected]
A Touch of Country says
would LOVE to read these books. We are on a very tight budget right now as we haven't sold our old house and we live in a new one….yikes!
Dawn says
I would love to read Tracy's book – I'm all for frugal living and decorating!
Dawn
Anonymous says
I remember Jonni McCoy from her pre-book days. I remember an article about her in either Family Circle or Woman's Day in the '70's. I also remember an article from Mary Hunt, another frugaltista, probably from the '80's.
I love your blog, and I would so enjoy reading the books!
Tasha says
Thanks for entering me in this wonderful giveaway.
Tasha
Jenelle says
I'n new to your blog and just LOVE your monogramed pumpkin. I have to say, I'm planing on making own of my own. 🙂 Also love your wreath… I made my Fall wreath this weekend and was inspired by your pumpkins & shoots spraying out around the sides. Thank you!
Felicia says
Another great book is The Tightwad Gazette by Amy Dacyczyn.
glorv1 says
Hi Manuela, please pick up your Faith, Hope, and Courage award at my blog. Thank you. Have a great Sunday.
daisymum7 says
I love your blog!!! The books look wonderful but I am in Australia so will understand if I am ineligible.
daisymum
Laurie says
I am a follower of Tracey McBride's Frugal Luxuries site and that's how I ended up here on your wonderful blog. A very nice way to be introduced to new blogs and yours is the kind I enjoy most. I will be back again to peruse your posts. ~Laurie e-mail: [email protected]
Anonymous says
The books sound great. Count me in the giveaway.
Coleen
shauna says
I would love to win these books! Thanks for the great blog and the giveaway!
[email protected]
Elise says
What a nice idea. A what a great blog. I really appreciate it — especially since your sense of style so often matches mine (love the chairs with the toile). What a terrific set of books to choose for your readers. Thank you — Elise
Melissa says
Thanks for the book giveaway. I would love to win.
Anonymous says
I discovered your blog through Thrifty Home Decor Chick. I love your style and sense of making things beautiful without spending a fortune!
Twyla
Audra says
I was out of town this weekend and missed posting. I am thrilled to see these books as I have wanted them for a long, long time. I would love to have them then pass them along.
Keeping my fingers crossed.
ttfn…
Darlene says
Both of those books look WONDERFUL and I would LOVE to be entered in the giveaway. Hope you are having a wonderful evening.♥
Andrea at Opulent Cottage says
They both sound like great books! What a fun giveaway – thanks!
mamajuliana says
Your blog is so beautiful!
Michelle M. says
Thanks for the great giveaway! I always love a good new book 🙂
Sharon says
Hi Manuela! I've been following your blog for several months. I have it as one of my Favorites. I love your approach to decorating!
Thanks for the wonderful giveaway!
I'd be thrilled to win these books.
Warm Regards,
Sharon
[email protected]
Laurie says
I haven't read the Jonni McCoy book. I follow her blog and know she's got great advice.
I love reading your blog!
[email protected]
Kim says
Sometimes it is a blessing that we have to tighten out belts. Look how many people have learned to develop their talents. I love all the projects I see posted out there.
spunkysuzi says
I'm just starting trying to be frugal. I can just imagine making a pot of tea and sitting in my chair reading these 🙂
Deborah says
Thank you for being so generous with you book giveaway. Thankful I am to find your blog and the chance to be entered into the drawing. Not many people enjoy the pleasures of homemaking as I do. So I look forward to hearing about yours. Added you to my reading list so as to not miss a post.
Deborah
Bombtastic Belle says
Both books sound like a great read 🙂
eod_army_wife04(at)yahoo(dot)com
JessK says
Manuela, Your website as well as Frugal Luxuries and Miserly Moms are on my list of resources as I teach my young daughters to be homemakers. Since visiting your website, we have started attending tag sales and thrift stores and are stretching my husband's hard-earned dollar like never before! Thank you for the inspiration. God bless you, Jess
Anonymous says
Both books look like great reads.
Brittany
[email protected]
Stacey says
I look forward in seeing what new ideas you have posted for us each time I see a feed from your blog. You are so talented! I love the corn and ribbon in this post. It is the little things that you make so pretty! Hugs!
Rain says
These look great.
I love how you decorate your home, you're full of fabulous inspiration.
Thanks!
Shirley Ann says
I love, love, love your blog and often drop by. You have inspired me in my own home – thank you.
Shirley
STEPH says
I always love a good read, these books would make a great addition to my collection.
Anonymous says
Manuela, I'm soooo glad I discovered your blog! You always have yummy recipes, frugal ideas & lovely pics. Thanks for the inspiration…many blessings!!!
becky says
Id love the win the books.They would be a great add to my library.
Deborah says
Since I've discovered your blog, I'm back daily to see if you have updated posts. I went through your comments to ensure I hadn't entered the giveaway, and I hadn't. So lucky me! I'm here on the last day and can enter. Yippee! I'm always looking for ways to save money, and these books sound like they're just what I'm needing. Thanks for the giveaway.
I don't have a blog. So here is my contact info: dmj53(at)hotmail(dot)com
bonnie says
You've picked a couple of books that I can't wait to read! They will be fun and I can't wait for some new ideas. You are super! thanx!
Bonnie
marmielu says
Hi,Manuela! I have not heard of either book, but they sound very interesting. I, too, am not frugal by nature, but have learned to be, and now I can't really go back too much (just a little sometimes!).
I will have to check out the blogs by these authors.
Thanks for sharing them.
Mary Lou
Gretchen says
Please enter me in your book drawing. As someone newly retired and on Social Security, I need all the help I can get.
Gretchen
http://www.birdnestcottage.typepad.com
Victoria says
Oooh oooh I would love to have Miserly Moms! I read her book 12 years ago when I first was married and the book was instrumental in our saving money so that I could stay at home when we had children. I haven't read it in years…in fact, I think I borrowed the copy I read. I would love to re-read it!
Kimberly says
So fun! I love to read new ideas for making our house a home and haven. Thanks!
Anonymous says
love this type of book and would love to have one of them. Love your blog.
Jackie
Golie says
Hi Manuela:
I love your blog and love what you do with found objects! INCREDIBLE imagination and creativity!
Blessings to you,
Golie
Sue says
Two of my very favorite books! I re-read them often, and highly recommend them. I don't need them, but wanted to say thanks for giving others the opportunity to enjoy them! Loving the 'autumn' postings!
Heather says
Neither book is in my personal library, but I have borrowed Miserly Moms from our public library and it is really practical! I'll keep my eye out for the Tracey McBride book! Thanks for the tip!
Simply Heart And Home says
My goodness you do have a lot of comments! I am a new reader and found your blog via Tracey. What lovely books and your blog as well. I am going to add it to my Lovely Reads section of my blog.
I have a monthly giveaway and you are most welcome to enter. Very nice to meet you,
Gina
Darla says
I love your blog. I just found it this evening and have already added it to my favorites.
Darla