Sometimes you just have to ask...

Sometimes it pays to ask for coupons or freebies.

Just ask Tom Locke. In 2006, he embarked on The $39 Dollar Experiment: Asking Random Companies for Free Stuff.

Armed with 100 stamps and a wicked sense of humor, Locke wrote to 100 different companies. His work paid off. In total he received nearly $273 worth of coupons and merchandise.

For those of you on a insatiable quest for freebies and coupons, check out his site. It will both amaze and amuse you.

It may even inspire you. I know that since I have started reading Freebies4Mom, I have made it a mission to pay attention to the brands I buy. If I see a website on the package, I visit it and sign up for their mailing or e-mail lists. And The $39 Experiment reminded me that being diligent can pay off.

Last week I realized that during my quest for goodies for parents of multiples, I completely missed contacting Luvs... Duh! So I sent off that info. I also called Frito Lay, just to see if they would send me something. In just a few days, they sent me three coupons for $1 off any Frito Lay products along with some tips for finding some of their print coupons.

I sometimes feel like I'm on a fishing expedition. I cast my line and see what kind of deals I can reel in.