Frugal Family: Discounts at T.J. Elliott's & Monterey and Buy One Get One 50 Percent Off at Stride Rite

We're all watching our family budgets these days. Whether shopping with coupons or looking for two-for-one deals, we're taking advantage of all sorts of offers and savings that help us stretch our dollars.

This column will be dedicated to giving you five great local deals each week that will help your family’s bottom line, and since we do the scouting for you, you can save time as well as money.

Discounts at T.J. Elliott's Restaurant

Deal: is offering $4 off on breakfast on weekends (minimum two entrees), $5 off (minimum $20) lunch and dinner Monday through Thursday. More deals available by texting TJE208 to 825725.

Good through: March 19, 2011

Why? Gives you a chance to dine at one of Bowie's few locally owned restaurants and still stay within your budget!

Buy One, Get One 50 Percent Off at Stride Rite in the Bowie Town Center

Deal: Purchase any footwear item at and receive 50% off the second pair of equal or lesser value. Offer cannot be combined with any other offers, coupons or prior purchases.

Good through: April 3, 2011

Why? With spring right around the corner, it would be a great time to get the kids some new shoes or sandals at a discount!

LensCrafters Offers Half Off Lenses with Frame Purchase

Deal: Get 50 percent off lenses when you purchase a frame at at Bowie Town Center.

Good through:  April 3, 2011

Why? Someone in the house may need new glasses so act on this deal to replace a broken or lost pair.

$10 off at Monterey Mexican Restaurant

Deal: Get $10 off of your bill of more than $30 (excluding alcohol) at Mexican Restaurant. 

Good through:  March 19, 2011

Why? Get a chance to check out a new restaurant if you've never been, and save some money! Check out to see if it's for you.

Big Fish Grille in Crofton Daily Happy Hour, Half Priced Wine on Weekend

Deal: Daily happy hour, Monday through Thursday 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., Friday 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and half priced bottles of wine.

Good through:  Ongoing

Why? With half priced sushi and appetizers, it can be a relaxing break from the daily grind. Half priced bottles of wine on Saturdays and Sundays is an extra incentive to get out of the house!

You are a big part of this column. Let us hear about the deals you've seen. Just add them to our comment box or send an e-mail to joshua@patch.com with the subject "Frugal Family Deals."

Then come back each week and see what we've uncovered together.