Sometimes my mailbox surprises me with little containers of baby wipes, shampoo, lotion, toothpaste and other things. Though the childlike excitement I experience upon discovering those little goodies is fun, that's not the only reason I request free samples. They also...
1. allow you to sample a product before you purchase it (obviously)
2. often are accompanied by high value coupons
3. are the perfect size with which to stuff stockings
4. are the perfect size to keep in your purse or desk drawer
5. might be something that could be placed in your church's care packages or Operation Christmas Child box
To simplify ordering, I've bookmarked a few favorite sources for free samples in a "Daily Freebies" folder in my Favorites tab. I am ULTRA conservative about which sites I even entertain as being reputable. My litmus test is as follows...
1. If I've never heard of the organization/company/site, FORGET IT!
2. Even if I've heard of them, if they do not have a close tie to the organization which manufactures the product (ex. carries the line in its stores), FORGET IT!
3. I always keep an eye on the address bar to make certain I haven't been derailed and taken to a strange website without my knowing it.
To protect myself further, I have a separate email account that I use with "strangers." This is the email I use if I'm the least bit worried that they'll contact me more than I care to be contacted ;) That way they're not clogging up my main email account.
So which ones do I visit? Glad to share! (Click to visit the site)
Occasionally, these sites run a little dry and repeat offers. If I've already taken advantage of an offer, I feel morally bound to refrain from re-requesting (I know, that's one right out of my own personal dictionary). Luke 12:15 Then he said to them, "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions." Greed is sin, and we can't expect to prosper by sinning. Also, it would serve us well to remember the intent behind the companies' generosity: to let each potential customer sample it and then, hopefully, continue to purchase it and spread the word.
I hope you enjoy requesting and receiving samples. Let me know if your mailbox suddenly becomes generous!
3 comments:
Thanks for these links! I never knew I could request freebies!
Thanks for following, I am following back!
I love your new header....where'd you find it?
Thanks,Patti. I got it on Etsy from a designer named "Dreamlike Magic." She was awesome! Thanks or dropping by my nest :)
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