~CVS deals!~

CVS:

4 Airwick (rain check item)
Reg. $9.99
Sale $4.99
-$6 q
=FREE + $1.01 overage each!!!

4 Dawn
Reg. $1.99
Sale $1.00
-$1 q
-$1 q
-.75 q
-.75 q
=2 FREE & 2 for .25 each

2 Scope
Reg. $4.79
Sale $3.49
-$1
-$1.50 ECB
=.99 each

Carefree (rain check item)
Reg. $4.19
Sale $3.79
-$1q
-$3.79 ECB
=FREE + $1 overage!

Vaseline lotion
$7.99
-$1.50 q
-$7 ECB
=FREE + .51 overage!

Retail = $69.68
*After ECB's and coupons, I actually made $3.07 off of these purchases!

~$5 off $25 at Wal-green's TODAY!~

Print this $5 off $25 coupon and take it with you to Wal-green's today (9/30/09)! Total must equal $25 before taxes and after coupons that you are using.

http://www.walgreens.com/topic/promotion/5off25.jsp

~VS FREE Shipping Today Only!~

Today only get FREE shipping on any Victoria's Secret order by entering code FREESHIP. If you order any Victoria Secret Pink item then use code
PINK09 to get a tote for FREE.

~Bath & Body Works deal~

Take the coupon below to Bath & Body Works to get a FREE Home Fragrance Diffuser or refill with any $15 purchase. This offer is valid through 10/13.

I love these things!!! This would make a great Christmas gift. You can get $15 worth of hand soap that is on sale for $3 and then get the FREE Diffuser. That would be 6 gifts for $15. Everyone likes Bath & Body Works ;)

http://ebm.cheetahmail.com/r/regf2?aid=528207786&a=0&n=43&D_CODE=1378&cm_mmc=CH-_-20090928RDM-_--_-mainPrintCoupon&cm_lm=

~Kroger $3.38!~

Kroger purchases yesterday. This sale is good through Tuesday :)

Charmin
reg. $2.69
sale $1.88
-.25 q (tripled)
=$1.13

2 Softsoap
Reg. $1.59 = $3.18
sale .94 = $1.88
-$1 q
=FREE + .12 overage

2 Colgate toothbrushes
reg. $1.69 = $3.38
sale .94 = $1.88
-$1 q
=FREE + .12 overage

9 Colgate toothpaste
reg. $1.89 = $17.01
sale .94 = $8.46
-$1 q
=FREE + .54 overage

4 Cheerios
Reg. $3.19 = $12.76
sale $1.77 = $7.08
-$1 q
-$1 q
-.75 q
-.75 q
-.55 q(shortcuts)
=$3.03 or .75 per box

Retail= $39.02
Spent = $3.38 or roughly 91% savings!!!

~$25 CVS~

Transfer any prescription to CVS and get a $25 gift card with the coupon below. Offer expires 10/04/2009.


http://www.cvs.com/CVSApp/images/promotions/landingpages/rx/rx09027_triple_adv/coupon.html#

~Teacher Gifts~

Let's talk teacher gifts...Most everyone who reads this blog either has children in school, MDO or at least have children in a church nursery. I like to give those people gifts for holidays (not just Christmas) and during teacher appreciation. I know, sounds expensive! However, it does not have to be. Today I bought $40 worth of teacher gifts and actually made money on the deal! I see coupons for candles in the paper most every Sunday. I encourage you to challenge yourself to give those people who take such great care of your children a gift. A small gift goes a long way!

Be blessed!

~VS 10 for $25!~

Members of Victoria’s Secret Pink Nation can log in and get a coupon for 10 VS Pink Panties for only $25! This is a HOT deal! You can use the coupon in-store or online. If you order online use the code: 10PANTIES.
If you are not a member of VS Pink Nation, sign up now to get this coupon! It is only valid for 4 days.

http://www.vspink.com/

Thanks Thrifty Mom!

~FREE Soap!~

Print coupon for a FREE Bath & Body Works Anti-Bacterial Hand Soap (up to a $5 value) with any purchase. This coupon expires Sunday (9/27).



http://f.chtah.com/i/34/528207786/20090925_coupon_1396.html?cm_mmc=CH-_-20090925RDM-_-7012000-_-subPrintCoupon&cm_lm=

~3 Inserts Sunday~

There will be 3 inserts in the Sunday paper.

Happy Clipping!

~Tylenol Recall!~

http://www.tylenol.com/page.jhtml?id=tylenol/news/subpchildinfantnews.inc

~Cutting Corners~

A reader emailed me asking ways to cut corners. So, here is a list of a few things that I do that I thought of quickly. If you all have anything that you do, please email me or leave a comment. I love hearing from you all!

Simple ways to cut corners:
Save gas!
*Don't drive all around town everyday.
*Schedule all of your errands the same day so that you are not wasting gas.

Only shop sale items.
*Wait until something goes on sale and then try to have a coupon for it.

Stock up when food staples go on sale.
*If the meat you like goes on sale at it's "rock bottom price", be sure to buy enough to last you until it goes on sale again.

Set a weekly budget and stick to it!

Pay CASH for things.
*If you pay cash, then you can't go over budget!

Brown bag it
*Always take your lunch to work with you or eat at home (if you stay-at-home)

Eat leftovers
*I know, not so glamorous....however, you can usually make great lunches out of leftovers!

Electric bills
*Turn the air up! Be sure to turn the thermostat up when you leave during the day. It really does save money.
*Unplug it! If you are not using an appliance, unplug it. I have tested this theory and it saves big on the electric bill.
*Buy Energy Star appliances (yes they are more expensive, but will pay for themselves)

Buy a year ahead
*I always buy my daughters clothing 1 year in advance when it goes on the end of season clearance.

Shop garage sales
*I love garage sales, but am very picky at what I will purchase. I don't normally do pre-owned shoes. Also, the clothing has to look new or still have tags on it. I'm not interested in anything that looks like it came from a garage sale! You would be shocked to see some of the brand new clothes that I have found over the years. So many things still had the tags on them!

Have a garage sale
*I think I've mentioned this before. It does take a little work, but I've never made less than $200 in one day. Totally worth the effort. Be sure to mark everything wih a price. Nothing is more annoying than to have to ask the price on every single item! Be prepared, few people actually pay the sticker price (I rarely do). Just know that it is a starting price :)

Trade with friends
*If you have an event coming up (costume party for kids), get together with your other mommy friends and swap the costumes. That way you are not out the money and the kids get to wear something new and fun.

Check your receipts!
*This is a big one. Just last week, my grocery bill was $15 more than it should have been. I realized it once I got home. Easy fix, went back to the store with my receipt and the items in question and got my money back.

Water bills
*Turn off the water when brushing
*Turn off the water when washing your face
*Only water 5 minutes per unit (if you have a sprinkler system)
*Wait until your dishwasher is full to wash
*Do large loads of laundry, instead of a bunch of little ones

Pay extra on the mortgage
*We pay a little extra on our home each month toward the principal. This is beneficial if you are planning to stay in a home forever or sell it in a few years.

Hope this helps! Thanks for the question, Jenn :)

~Another Success!~

Last week my total was $51.23 before coupons and discounts. I walked out only spending $3.36. I've had a couple of really great shopping weeks! I'm under budget for the month and LOVING IT!!!

Some questions from readers:
Do I ever get sick of saving money (yes, someone actually asked that)???
NO WAY!

Do I ever get tired of figuring out different scenarios?
NEVER!

Do I always giggle when leaving the store?
Pretty much :)


How are all of my students doing? Please, email me! I'd love to hear from you all.

Be blessed!

~$3.00 at Kroger!~

Yes, you read that correctly! Kroger is having another buy 10 participating items, get $5 instantly event. The sale prices below reflect the discount. A few of the items were just sale, not part of the "event". I was super excited when I walked away only spending $3!

3 Ritz
Reg. $2.99
Sale $1.99
-$1 q
=.99 each

3 Nabisco crackers
Reg. $3.59
sale $3.34
-FREE q (with purchase of Ritz cracker)
=FREE!!!

8 Trident Gum
Reg. $1.29
Sale BOGO
-$1
= Free-.29 each!

4 Hot Pockets
Reg. $2.14
Sale $1.99
-.50 q (doubled)
=.49 each

3 Digorno Pizza
Reg. $6.59
Sale $3.97
-$1 q
=$2.97

2 Avocado
$1.99
-$1.50 q
=.49 each

2 Guacamole
Reg. $2.79
Sale $2.49
-$1.50 q
=.99

4 Salsa
Reg. $2.99
-FREE q (buy 1 get 1 FREE)
=FREE!!!!

Wonder Bread
Reg. $2.19
sale $1.59
-.55 q
=$1.04

Retail = $82.10
Total = $19.00
-(8) $2 Discover Card q's
Spent = $3.00
Saved = $79.10 or 97%!!!

Less than 100....

Days until Christmas! 95 to be exact! Is your budget set and ready???


I've been reading a ton on personal finance over the past 2 years really, but more extensively lately. I LOVE to read about ordinary people doing extraordinary things with their money. I was just reading today about a family who has 65% of their future home saved. People keep asking them why they don't just finance the rest? Their answer is because they want to pay CASH for the entire 100%. What an awesome goal!
Another family I read about have been unemployed for 8 months now and are still debt free. That is pretty amazing! They are big Dave Ramsey people (as am I). They always lived below their means and had a very large emergency fund in the event something like this happens. Sort of like my mom always said to me "It will rain at some point...you better be prepared".

Do you have any financial goals set?
Do you dream of paying CASH for a house??? I sure do!
Do you have an emergency fund?

Be blessed!

~Cook Once...Eat Twice!~

Those of you in a cooking rut (who isn't at times?), this is a great motto to cook by. "Cook Once...Eat twice" Example: Make a large serving of crock pot chicken and then use it in 2 different meals. I usually break it up by eating a meal of some sort of chicken one night, then do a beef or pork meal the next and then on the third night go back to a chicken dish. Eating at home doesn't have to feel like a penalty, however if you only make the same things OVER AND OVER AND OVER, it will get old very quickly!

I currently have chicken and pork chops thawing for today and tomorrow. Technically, I will have four meals out of the two. I will do 2 chicken meals along with pork chops one night and then I will use the remaining chops and probably put on some nachos (one of my hubby' favs).

Also, remember that grilled avocado w/ chicken that I was going to try to make a while back??? It was awesome! I've also tried it with grilled steak (leftovers)and it was even better!

Hope this helps!

~Is it Monday again?~

It just seems like I was blogging about my menu yesterday. Ha! My hubby has worked between 70-80 hours each week for 3 weeks now. So, my menu has been a bit crazy! The evenings that he has been working late, we have been eating smaller meals that don't require any planning.
Below are a few of the meals that we ate:

Beef Enchiladas
Soft Tacos
Chili w/ beans
Chicken wraps
Pizza

Do you have your menu set for this week?

Happy Planning!

~Glade Soy Candles~

Finally, a store had these in stock. Yeah! I picked these up at Wal-mart today with my FREE coupons.


*These make great little gifts too!

~CVS Today!~

Dry Idea
$2.99
-$1 ECB
-$2 q
=FREE!

Can't beat that :)

~CVS Deals!~

2 Listerine
$3.99
-$2 ECB
-$2 q
=FREE!

2 Purex
$3.49
-$1 ECB
-$1 q
=$1.49 each

Colgate
$2.99
-$2 ECB
-$1 q
=FREE!

~Wal-green's Degree Deal~

Wal-greens:
Spent $1.93!
Saved $19.80 (per the receipt)
*Several different value coupons were used in combination with in-store coupons

~$5 off $10 Build-A-Bear!~

Below is the link for the $5 off $10 coupon at Build-A-Bear!
Coupon expires September 28, 2009

http://buildabearnewsletter.com/P/v3/CouponWrapper.asp?E=3180;194631;9928825;22;02&R=T1_CPN_50129&A=1007&ci=50129

$5 off $25 Sally's Beauty Supply

Below is the link for a $5 off $25 purchase at Sally's Beauty Supply. Coupon expires December 31, 2009!

http://www.studentrate.com/STUDENTRATE/Assets/Rad/Images/vendorImages/24135/College-Discount-sally-coupon.jpg?sid=cc-00hc-0742-251998-00-00-0000-091709

I'm excited about this because I'm needing to replace my hair dryer. Score!


Speaking of scoring...Boomer Sooner!!!

~2 Inserts Scheduled~

Smart Source and Red Plum are scheduled to be in the Sunday paper.

Have a great weekend!

~Diaper Study~

If you have a child in size 4 diapers, this is a great chance for you to score some FREE diapers from the nations premier diaper manufacturer Arquest! They are looking for babies that wear size 4 diapers to try out a new diaper study. Call

1-888-342-7372 ext. 646 (girls diapers)
1-888-342-7372 ext. 634 (boys diapers)

Be sure to leave your contact info and the will call you back and send out packages of diapers to start the study. If you qualify for the study you will get free diapers and a $10 check after the study has completed

*Thanks UtahDealDiva

This offer will go fast! Go ahead and leave your information and they may call you for a future study if you miss out on this one. Free diapers are pretty awesome!

~Crazy Week!~

I have a crazy busy schedule this week. Did I mention it is football season? Ha! I have not forgotten about you all, just haven't seen anything really worthy of blogging about. I do not post unless there is something that I would do or use myself.
Have you gotten all of your coupons clipped and in your binders?

Hope you all have a very blessed Wednesday!

~It's Menu Monday!~

Alright...who has their menu planned for this week? Last weekend (Labor Day Weekend) we had a house full of guests and I had my menu set for that. Then Monday was a holiday and I never made my weekly menu. So, all week I had to figure things out each day. I definitely prefer to have a menu set now. Much less thinking and staring at the pantry and freezer!
Here are a few meals that we had:
Burgers on the grill (veggie side)
Chicken sandwiches
Crock pot BBQ chicken, corn on the cob (was so good!)...This was the Sunday meal!
Ham/Turkey/Cheese Calzones (veggie side)
Eggs, bacon & biscuits (love breakfast for dinner once in a while)

Again, nothing too excited but it got the job done.

~Kroger~

Final price= $0.00

FREE!!!

~Tom Thumb~

Tom Thumb specials:
3 Tyson Chicken
Reg. $7.99
sale $3.99 (in-store q)
-$1.50 q
=$2.49 per bag

3 Mission Chips
Reg. $2.99
Sale $.99 per bag

I don't go to Tom Thumb often, but was in the area and didn't want to pass up these deals.

5 Coupon Inserts Scheduled!

Woohoo! There should be 5 coupon inserts in the paper Sunday.
Get your scissors ready!

~Spaghetti Warehouse BOGO!~

Spaghetti Warehouse is offering a FREE entrée with the purchase of a second entrée and beverage with the coupon below. Offer good through Saturday (9/12).

Be sure to print the coupon from the link below.
http://www.facebook.com/SpaghettiWarehouse?v=app_4949752878&viewas=1830632033&ref=nf

Why do you coupon?

I would love to hear from my readers as to why you coupon? Obviously, we all coupon to save money! However, is there something specifically you are saving for? A new car, vacation, Christmas, retirement, bad economy, kids in college, etc.
As you all know (if you've read my previous posts)...I coupon to fully fund our beach vacations. Yes, I'm already island dreaming. It is fun to coupon when you have a goal. Every month that I hit my target goal, I just giggle at the thought of my tropical paradise.
Email me or leave a comment. I love hearing from you all!

Remember that couponing is just being smart with your finances. Even if you don't have a major goal, every penny saved is a penny earned.

~You ask...I tell!~

Some of you are asking about the coupons that I have been using. I get my coupons from 3 different major city papers.
1. Dallas Morning News
2. Tulsa World
3. Daily Oklahoman (OKC)

I don't get the Tulsa World or the Daily Oklahoman every week, only when my sweet mom & MIL send them to me. Thanks again you two! The interesting thing is that some their coupons have different values.
Example:
Pace
.50 (DMN)
.55 (Tulsa World)
.75 (Daily Oklahoman)

I've noticed this on several products. I just never know until I get them. So, if you are a bit confused on a few of my coupons, that is probably the deal.

Hope you all are having a very blessed Wednesday!

~Exciting News!~

It's official...Target will now price match! Woohoo! Please read the link below for all of the details. Pretty exciting!

http://pressroom.target.com/pr/news/value/our-low-price-promise-facts.aspx

~Snapfish FREE Shipping!~

Snapfish.com is offering FREE shipping on all orders through September 13th!
Use code, FREELABOR at checkout.

~Free Redbox today!~

Use Redbox code T46T3Q7 for one FREE movie rental!
Valid only on Labor Day (today).

~Today is the Day!~

~Chick-fil-a Labor Day Deal!~

Get a FREE Chick-fil-A Original Chicken Sandwich on Labor Day (9/7) when you wear your favorite sports team logo. Anytime from 10:30-close...No purchase necessary.

Boomer Sooner (yes we still wore our Sooner gear with pride....that is what true fans do)! We bleed crimson :)

~My Kroger trip this week!~

In case you were wondering, yes I did some shopping this week. Below are some of my deals. I'm trying to not buy much in September and use up some of my stock. Of course, if I see a great deal I won't pass it up!



Purchased 3 Family Sized Cereal
Reg. $4.39
Sale 3/$9 ($3 per box)
-$2/2
=$2.33 per box (family size)
*Got the following items FREE! Crazy Meal Deal!

*Milk
Reg. $2.99
FREE!

*English Muffins
Reg. $1.99
FREE!

*Yogurt
Reg. .40
FREE!

*Raisins
Reg. $2.19
FREE!

Bounty
Reg. $1.39
sale $1.00
-.25 q (tripled)
-.25 e q
=FREE!

Charmin
Reg. $2.69
Sale $1.88
-.25 q (tripled)
=$1.13

2 Hefty
Reg. $2.49
Sale $1.00
-$1 q
=FREE!!

4 Lunchables
Reg. $2.39
Sale $1.00
-$1 q
=FREE!!!!

Pace
Reg. $1.49
sale $1.00
-.50 q (doubled)
=FREE!

Retail= $40.85
Spent = $8.12
Saved = $32.73 or 80%

~Kodak Deal!~

150 prints for $15 plus free shipping.

Buy 1 of anything, get the second free. (photo books, cards, calendars, photo gifts, mugs, frames and enlargement prints)

Free shipping on print orders of 4.99 or more and all orders of 19.99 or more.

Offer expires 9-10-09.

www.kodakgallery.com

Thanks Jen!

~No Inserts Labor Day Weekend~

There will be no coupon inserts in this Sunday's newspaper due to the holiday weekend.

Hope you all have a safe and fun Labor Day Weekend!

~Eggo RECALL!!!~

If you have purchased any Eggo waffles, please read the following:


A laboratory test by the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) found Listeria monocytogenes in a sample of Kellogg's Buttermilk Eggo Waffles manufactured at an Atlanta plant.

The sample was taken as part of a routine inspection by GDA of the Kellogg's plant at 5601 Bucknell Dr. SW, Atlanta. This product was not shipped into the marketplace.
While no illnesses have been reported, out of an abundance of caution, Kellogg is voluntarily recalling a limited number of the following products produced in the same facility:
Kellogg's® Eggo® Cinnamon Toast waffles, 10-count package, UPC code 3800040440 with "Best If Used Before" dates beginning with: NOV22 10 EA, NOV23 10 EA and NOV24 10 EA.

Kellogg's® Eggo® Toaster SwirlzTM Cinnamon Roll Minis eight-count package, UPC code 3800023370 with a "Best If Used Before" date beginning with beginning with NOV15 10 EA.

Thanks Veronica!

~Chick-fil-a Labor Day Deal!~

Get a FREE Chick-fil-A Original Chicken Sandwich on Labor Day (9/7) when you wear your favorite sports team logo. Anytime from 10:30-close...No purchase necessary.

Boomer Sooner!

~Panda Expess Coupon~

Buy any 2 entree plate, get a single entree serving FREE coupon! Expires Sept. 30th.

http://www.pandaexpress.com/PX/Facebook/FriendsandFamily09.jpg


Thanks Wendy!

~15% Off @ Wal-green's!~

Print the coupon link below and get 15% off your total order at Wal-green's. Offer good today only!


http://www.walgreens.com/topic/instorespecials/friends.jsp?ban=flh1_h_family_friends

~TGI Friday's BOGO Deal!~

Hope you all had a great weekend! My baby girl had a birthday yesterday and we celebrated big time! Happy birthday to my most precious little miracle. Mommy loves you!

Below is the coupon link for TGI Friday’s to get a FREE entrée with the purchase of a second entrée. Expires 9/7. Enjoy!

http://www.tgifridays.com/fb-bogo/

~Devastating Kroger News!~

I noticed on my receipt the other day that some of my q's had not been doubled. So, today I went in for a few items and stopped by the customer service desk to ask about it. They informed me that "KROGER WILL ONLY DOUBLE/TRIPLE 1 COUPON PER LIKE ITEM...THE OTHER COUPONS WILL BE FACE VALUE"......My heart is officially broken....I literally felt like crying....Are any of you crying yet? This is a blow to my coupon plans. They are going to really make us work to stock up on items. I'm not a fan of multiple transactions and multiple trips, but they are leaving us no choice.
I asked when this went into effect and she said last Saturday. If I learn anything else, I'll pass it on.

Be blessed!

~Target $3.43~

Listerine pack
Reg. $6.99
Clearance $4.24
-$2 q
=$2.24

Johnsons
$3.19
-$1 Target q
-$1 q
=$1.19 (not my best deal, but was getting low)

10 GM cereals
$1.00
-$1 Target q
=FREE!

Retail: $20.18
Spent: $3.43
Saved: $16.75 or 83%

~$3.29 at Kroger!~

Kroger:
2 Fruit Cheerios
Reg. $3.55
Sale $1.49 (after promo deal)
-$1/2 q
=.99 per box

1 Box Cheerios
Reg. $3.13
sale $1.49

1 box Trix
Reg. $2.79
sale $1.49
-$1/2 q
=.99 per box

3 BC fruit snacks
Reg. $2.69
sale $1.49
-.40 (doubled)
=.69 per box

1 BC Cookie mix
Reg. $2.29
sale $1.49
-.40 q (doubled)
-.40 e q.
=.29

2 BC Cookie mix
Reg. $2.29
sale $1.49
-.40 q (doubled)
.69 each

Angel Soft
$1.09
-.50 (doubled)
=.09

Retail: $29.05
Total: $8.29
-$3.50 catalina from previous purchase
-$1.50 catalina from previous purchase
=$3.29 out-of-pocket!!!
*That is a savings of 89%!

~Gift idea from a reader~

I always give the same gift to all family members (we only give gifts to the kids because their number is growing and we love to spoil our nieces). One year I did muffins in a jar... all you do is buy the mason jars and ingredients for the special muffins, don't forget to decorate the jar and include recipe. It's a great, easy, inexpensive gift... good for teachers too.
Another idea was baskets with special pictures from our wedding, so for my father-in-law and his wife there was pics of us dancing with them at the reception... the frames I picked especially for each person to match their style and decor.

Tiff
************************************************************************
*Sounds like a great idea. If you have an idea you would like to share, please email me or leave a comment and I'll post it :)
Thanks Tiff!

~Plan Ahead...Christmas is coming!~

This weekend I picked up a couple of Christmas gifts during the TX tax free weekend sales. I actually start my Christmas shopping in January, yes you read is correctly...January! I have a monthly budget for "gifts/clothing" and I stay within it. I buy things throughout the year when I see them on sale or find the perfect gift. When November and December rolls around, I don't have the stress of running around everywhere or the financial strain. Christmas truly is about Jesus being the reason for the season!
Are you ready for a goal? If you have not started already, figure out a budget that you can spend (without going into debt). Divide that number by 4 (Sept., Oct., Nov. & December) and purpose to only spend that amount. The goal is to not be paying for Christmas 2009 in 2010!
I promise, Jesus does not want you to go into debt over His Birthday :)Having this set budget will make you think outside the box when it comes to gifts. You will put more thought into each gift too!
Example: I'm making my BIL a basket of all grill & home items. It is going to end up being awesome! Why? I have been collecting items each month to put in it. It will be filled with marinades, seasonings, recipes, etc. It will be an expensive "retail" gift, however we all know that I will be using some of my great deals. I will try to remember to take pics of it when I'm finished.
I'm fully aware that most people don't think to do their Christmas shopping at the grocery store. Ha! However, it is possible and fun if you think outside the box my dear couponers :) Think coffees along with chocolates and all of the many other possibilities. Items are not so random if grouped together.
I have a few other gift ideas in the making, but can't share due to some of my reader's being the recipients!
If you have any low budget, yet high quality gift ideas please let me know. I'm always open to ideas. The thing about gifts is that it doesn't matter what you spend as long as it is of good quality.
Please email me your budget challenges! I can't wait to see what you all can come up with!

We wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy August!

~Walgreen's~

4 Chinet plates
$2.99 (bogo sale)
-$2
-$2
-$2
-$1
=$1.02 overage

2 Tylenol
$4.49 (bogo sale)
-$2
-$2
=.49

candy $1.00
(I ended up having to buy the candy so that there was not an overage)

Total spent = .55!
Saved $24.76
Woohoo!

~Target Tax Free Weekend~

Nothing too exciting. I purchased these tanks on clearance for .87 each and the cereal was FREE after coupons. My grand total was $2.61!

~Kroger's Promo Sale~

*A different view

Kroger is having the "buy 10 participating items, get $5 off" sale. The prices below are the final prices after the promo deal.

10 Boxes of cereal
Reg. $2.79
sale $1.49
-$1/2
=$1 each

6 Boxes of oatmeal bars
Reg. $3.29
sale $1.99

5 boxes of Quaker granola bars
reg $1.99
sale $1.49

10 boxes of Nature Valley bars
Reg. $3.19
sale $1.99
*I had several different value q's for this product

Retail: $89.49
*Spent: $43.19
*After all of my q's and internet loadable q's

FYI: I didn't have any q's for many of the products. I just know that those are good prices and it was the time to stock up. Those bars are super easy to add to lunches. Plus the cereal makes good on-the-go snacks for my little lady.

This sale is on through Tuesday :)

~Office Max-Tax Free Weekend!~

Here are my Office Max Tax Free Weekend deals:

Office Max
9 Crayons
Reg. .99
sale .01
=.09 total

1 Washable marker set
Reg. $1.99
Sale $1.00
-20% (brown bag discount)
=.80

Colored pencils
.99
-20%
=.80

Retail: $11.89
Spent: $1.69 no tax
Saved: $10.20 or rougly 86%!

~Walgreen's 50% off Photo Books~

Use code PHOTOBOOK at checkout today and get 50% Off Everyday Photo Books! This is offer is valid today only.

If you aren't already signed up with Walgreen's Photo, you'll also get 25 Free 4x6 prints when you sign up for a new W-Photo account! This offer is valid through 8/24.

*FYI: I've already received the posters that I ordered a couple days ago. Talk about fast shipping! They look great too :)

~Awesome JCP Deal!~

I've gotten some great deals on clothing before, but never FREE!!! Today was a good day. You all know my saying "nothing beats FREE!" I was armed with a $10 off purchase home mailer coupon for JCP today along with a FREE catalog coupon (thanks to my MIL :)
2 pants:
reg. $9.99
sale $5.99 (sign in store)
*I remembered seeing them for $4.99 in the ad, so they let me have them for that.
final $4.99
no tax
Total=$9.98
used $10 mailer=FREE!!!

So, I left JCP today with 3 FREE items! I am used to leaving the grocery store with FREE stuff, but not clothing. That was AWESOME!

"It makes we want to shout...Hallelujah thank you Jesus!"

Texans...don't forget!

It's tax free weekend! The stores are already busy.
Happy Tax Free Shopping :)

~This is for all you Ann Taylor Girls!~

Print the coupon (link below)and get $20 off your purchase! Offer good today and tomorrow only!


http://ebm.cheetahmail.com/c/tag/hBKjdV0BdYR8vB7utgc-PC5LgNy/doc.html?&email=

~FREE Scrapbook page today!~

Today at Walgreen's use code SCRAPIT and get a FREE Scrapbook page!

~20 FREE Prints Today!~

Today at Walgreen's get 20 FREE prints by using code 20FREE4ME at checkout. Be sure to ship to store to get these 20 prints FREE!!! I just ordered mine :)

I'm loving all of these Wags photo deals this week! I'm finally getting caught up on ordering all of my prints. Woohoo!

*The photo above is one of my new fav's. I made the dress being modeled.

~FREE Poster Today at Walgreen's!~

Use code FREEPOSTER at checkout. This is a 9.99 value!
I just ordered one of these for a Christmas gift :)

~Menu?~

What's for dinner tonight?

I'm trying something new tonight. I'll let you all know if it turns out good. One of my favorite restaurants serves grilled avocados with chicken, rice, beans & queso. So, I'm going to try to make it tonight. I'm sure it won't be as good, but hopefully still yummy!

Some other meals we are having this week include:
Beef Stroganoff (hubby's favorite)
Baked Pork Chops, baked potatoes, broccoli
Poppyseed chicken, green beans
Roast beef sandwiches

That is about all I know for now!

Happy cooking :)

~Walgreen's 25 for .25 Today!~

Today at Walgreens.com get 25 prints for .25 cents! Be sure to choose in-store pickup so there is no additional charge. I just ordered mine!

*Use code PENNY at checkout.



Thanks Maryanne!

~FREE Pink Lotion @ V.S.!~

Print the coupon below (link) and receive a FREE 1 oz. Victoria's Secret Pink body lotion! No purchase required. Please see coupon for more details.
*Would make a great stocking stuffer!

http://ebm.cheetahmail.com/c/tag/hBKhrKvAcckdyB7uqHy-Pizp3LY/

~Crazy Kroger!~

This weekend I had a church retreat/training at a local hotel. Praise the Lord that we did not have to report until around 8:30 am this morning! Me and 2 of my students and awesome friends got up at the crack (4:40 am!) to get ready and drive to Kroger. We did not even go to bed until almost 1 am. You can imagine how I'm feeling right about now! So, we got up and I did my pre-game stretching and cheers and we were off. Yes, I really did those things....There is documentation! We arrived about 15 minutes prior to them opening. We ran into some of my other students and some other friends. It was fun! So, while we were there I got a game plan of where each was to go and where we would meet up. When the exit doors opened first, I started sprinting....Yep, sprinting and let me tell you IT FELT GOOD! I was on a mission and I was going to execute. I guess the sprinting threw my 2 girls off and the game plan went to the curb. ;) However, I must say that although it may have felt like I was sprinting away from you....I would never leave a man behind!!! (Allyssa, Tina & Jamie...that one's for you!)
It would take me days to go over my 9 transactions, so I won't. Instead, I've posted 2 pics with my grand totals. Hope you all got up early enough to get the stuff before it was gone! We went back this afternoon and there was hardly anything left. All in all it was a great day of shopping and a great day to spend with friends. Also, we got back to the hotel in time this morning for our meetings. Praise Jesus!
Thank you Jamie & Jenny for letting me go in front of you. That was such a blessing!



Below is an idea of what is in the picture since you can't tell the quantity very well. I did not list everything, but this will give you a good idea. Some of the items were more expensive (8 detergents & 2 bagged chicken).
3 Tide detergent
5 All detergent
2 Tyson bagged chicken
4 lunch meat
3 Quilted Northern
6 Reach Flossers
6 Toothbrushes
6 Gums
7 Degree deo.
Hefty trash bags
2 Welch's jelly
Welch's grape juice
6 Colgate
2 Listerine
1 Shave cream
1 Cookie Mix
1 cake icing
6 Ken's Dressing
4 Danon yogurts
2 pizzas
2 Excedrin
4 Pillsbury
2 Hair gel
7 nail polish
3 Raids
2 Carpet powder
15 pasta sides
2 Butterfinger packs
2 Guacamole's
3 Salsa
1 butter
Basically, I got 128 items for a total of.......drum roll please.........
$69.91!!!! I saved $296.15! Basically, that means I paid .54 cents per item. Woohoo! Victory and now it is time to get some sleep. Hope you brought your "A game" today and were victorious. I am so proud of my students that I have already heard from. Everyone did awesome today!
If I have not heard from you, please email me and share your success :)

By His Grace~
S
I'll leave you with some funnies around 5 am this morning in our hotel room. Enjoy!
*To the right! All good game plans begin with a pre-game warm-up! My roomie Tina thought this was too funny :)
*To the left!

~Kroger Saturday!~

Okay Texans....this is our SUPER BOWL!!! This is our 1 shot of complete and total victory. Put your game face on, scout your opponent (store), get a great game plan on paper and EXECUTE! Yes, I am married to a Football Coach! ;)
I have logged hours getting ready for this event on Saturday. Literally, I am super excited! I want to maximize every deal possible. This will include multiple trips and transactions, but that is okay. I hope to stock up on a variety of items. I will give you a play-by-play once I get it all settled here. This is big!
Are you ready for some double couponing?!!!!

*My husband offered me eye black for this event, tempting....but I think I should pass on this one ;)

Helpful hint: Just because the coupon is doubled does not mean it is the best deal. Be careful to check the prices.

Happy Krogering! If you see me and I don't see you it's because I'm in "The Zone"!

~40% off V.S.!~

Get an extra 40% off any one clearance item online at Victoria’s Secret by using the code CLEAR40. Offer good through Thursday, August 13th.

~Menu!~

Okay, I keep getting emails about everything except your menu planning. How is it going? Is it getting easier each week? Remember, meals don't have to be complicated. I try to keep meal preparation under 30 minutes. If I do anything that takes longer, my hubby has to be home to keep an eye on our 2 year old. Here are a few examples of super easy and fast meals that we will be eating this week:
Hamburgers (on the grill)
Soft Tacos w/ queso & guac.
spaghetti
steak (on the grill)
I always like to have a few "staple meals". That is something that you can whip up in no time and you don't have to read directions. Super easy and everyone likes it. For us, that is Mexican food. I can make several different Mexican meals in less than 30 minutes from start to finish.

Hope you all are enjoying planning and cooking your family meals.
Be blessed!

~Something Big Is Coming!~

I've just confirmed the rumor....Kroger is going to be having a special coupon day on Saturday, August 15th. My store did not know the details yet, only that it is something involving coupon doubles! She said they would not know all of the details until tonight. I will keep you posted. This is huge!

~Another Jack in the Box Deal!~

I guess it went over so well last week that Jack in the Box is offering the same deal again this Tuesday. My hubby took advantage of the deal last week!

Go to the link below to print your coupon for 2 FREE tacos!

http://coupon.jackinthebox.com/coupon/two-free-tacos_20090811.php

~Cash is King!~

Anytime we are going to make a large purchase, we always shop around. We have been in the market for a new mattress and decided to finally go looking last weekend. The first place we went to had a mattress that we loved and it seemed to be a good deal. We decided to go look at 2 more places before making our decision. We like to buy things from locally owned and operated establishments whenever possible. It just so happened that the owner was helping us at the first store. She gave us the price and was not wanting to budge on delivery or the frame. So, I decided to use some of Dave Ramsey's tactics and see what I could negotiate, if anything. I asked her if she was willing to offer a discount if we paid CASH, if not we would use a credit card. She came back with a price more than $50 less if we paid with cash.
So, CASH it was for our new King mattress set!

~The Crockpot Challenge~

The past 2 weeks, I have been thawing meat out on Saturday night and then putting in the crockpot before we leave for church on Sunday. Once church is over we come home to a yummy smelling house and lunch waiting for us. Not only is it saving us time and money, but it is way more healthy than eating fast food!
So, my challenge to my dear readers is to pick a day that you normally struggle with eating out (ours is Sunday after church). Once you have your day, thaw something out the night before and pop it into the crockpot and let it cook. My new crockpot has a 4 hour setting which is awesome! Make this particular day a "crockpot day" for the next month and see if it sticks. It is going to in my house! We normally are starving after church and end up eating something fast and not good. I told my cute hubby that I love feeding my little family good quality food. It really makes me happy!
Examples:
Last Sunday we had:
Whole chicken (seasoned with Garlic & onion powder)
carrots
potatoes
(everything was cooked together in the crockpot)

Today:
chicken breast (marinated in Lawry's Mesquite Lime in Crockpot)
baked potatoes (microwave)
steamed broccoli
salad

I have a crockpot recipe book that my MIL got me that I need to get out. Chicken is always super easy. I'm looking forward to the weather cooling down so that I can start making my soups too! If you have a really great crockpot recipe that you would like to share, please email me or leave a comment and I will post it.

Hope you all have a blessed Sunday!

~August 9th Coupons~

There should be 2 Smart Source & 1 Red Plum insert in the Sunday paper.

Have a great Friday!

~Kroger today~

This is not going to be a typical post for me. I usually only show the products that were good deals or free. I rarely show everything that I buy. However, I want you all to see that by couponing and stocking up, I don't have to buy much each week. This also allows me the freedom to spend the majority of my budget on fresh fruits. I usually buy fruits twice a week, so they stay fresh.


Here are the highlights:

2 Sara Lee
$2.79
*BOGO special, so 2nd was FREE!

Bacon
$5.99
*BOGO special, so 2nd was FREE!

Cheese
Reg. $2.59
sale $1.25

Ham
reg. $2.79
sale $2.39
-.55q
=$1.84

2 Fruity Pebbles cereal
reg. $2.50
sale $2.00
-$1/2 q
=$1.50 per box

2 Honeycomb cereal
reg. 2.68
sale $2.00
-$1/2
=$1.50 per box

Honey bunches of Oats
Reg. $3.38
sale $2.00
-$1 q
=$1.00

6 Lady Speed Stick
Reg. $1.99
Sale .88
-.75q
=.13 each!

2 Lever soaps
Reg. ???
Clearance $1.64
-.50 (doubled)
=.64 per 2 pack

Fruit $10.27

Retail= $65.23
Spent = $31.20

~Target today~

2 Cakesters
sale $2.04
-.75/2 q
=$1.67 each

3 Johnson's kits
.99
-$1 q
=FREE!

Degree deo.
$2.34
-$1.25q
=$1.09

Degree spray
$3.64
FREE! (wyb deo.)

Total=$4.43
Saved= over $9

~Texas Tax Free Weekend is August 21-23rd!~

Texas Tax Free Weekend is August 21-23rd. For a complete list of everything that is tax free, please see the link below. A few changes were made this year. School supplies are now included!

http://www.window.state.tx.us/taxinfo/taxpubs/tx98_490/tx98_490.html

~Tuesday Kroger Deal~

I had forgotten to post my Kroger trip on Tuesday. I ran in for a couple of items during the last day of the special. Here are a couple of highlights:

2 Stayfree
Reg. $3.19
Sale $1.99
-$2 q
-BOGO q
=FREE!!!

4 Kleenex
Reg. $2.09
Sale .99
-.50/2 (doubled)
-.50/2 (doubled)
=.49 each!

2 Ladys Speed Stick
Reg. $2.39
Sale .88
-.75 q
-.75 q
= .13 each

Retail: $19.52
Spent: $2.22
Saved: $17.30 or 89% savings!

~Jack in the Box FREE Tacos!~

On Tuesday, August 4th, get two FREE Jack in the Box tacos!
No purchase necessary.

Below is the link to print the coupon:

http://coupon.jackinthebox.com/images/coupon/two-free-tacos_20090804.jpg

~Special Walgreens Coupon Today Only!~

Today, July 31st save an extra 15-20% on your Walgreens purchase! Please read the coupon for more details.
I've sent my sweet hubby to pick up a few items while he is in town. I love extra discounts!

Here is the link to print the coupon:

http://www.walgreens.com/dmi/instorespecials/default.html?ec=hn1028sr_getcoupon

~Sunday Coupons!~

I've heard that there should be 5 inserts in Sunday's paper!
There should be 2 Smart Source, 1 Red Plum, 1 Kelloggs/Keebler and 1 P&G insert.

Get your scissors ready!

30% off Gap, Old Navy & Banana Republic!

Starting (today) July 30th-August 2nd, save 30% off your entire purchase when you use the coupon listed below! This coupon is valid at Old Navy, Gap, Gap Outlet, Banana Republic and Banana Republic Factory Stores. You save 30% and 5% of your total purchase will be donated to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Sounds like a great deal for everyone involved!

This is the link to the coupon you will need for your in-store purchase:

http://www.gapinc.com/giveandget/lls/

Looks like a good time to purchase some back-to-school items!

~Seminar Testimonials~

Below are a couple of email testimonials from 3 girls at 2 different seminars this summer. I'm so proud of all of the girls who came to the seminars. They are using the techniques and are saving big! Thought these might inspire some of you. Be blessed!
***************************************************
I just want to tell you how cool God is to always fill in the gaps of where finances are missing! This month would have been pretty rough but to see how God is always faithful and never a moment too late. What I was dreading on paper (wondering how we would make it with recent unexpected expenses) and seeing how we always had enough and are even STOCKING UP!! God is so good and so awesome as he teaches us to be BETTER wives, and true proverbs 31 women who are money savvy.

Total spent- $167 on $340 worth of groceries and toiletries
Total saved- $173

I can't wait to stockpile even and SAVE tons more next month.
Thanks so much, for equipping us with something that will bless our families for MANY years to come! I pray you reap a harvest from what seeds you have planted!

~Laura
***************************************************
Was going to tell you about my Kroger trip today! I bought 42 items worth $80.00 and paid $39.50 . Was able to get at least 4 items for free! I look forward to my next trip. I've still been able to cut my shopping in half from $400.00 to $200.00. I plan on going lower but I'm still stocking up!

Thanks for everything!
Amy
****************************************************
I am an official "Sassy Saver". The best part is that I actually had fun doing this.

My total bill: $102.99
Amount Saved: $46.50
I paid: $56.49
Thanks again! Amber

~Crest & CVS deals~

I'm back! Hope you all had a great week of saving money. We were out-of-state and enjoyed some time off. I did manage to stop by a Crest store for some deals and CVS before heading to church. Here are my deals:


CREST:
8 Kraft
.50
-(2) buy 3 get 1 FREE q's
=.37 each

Purina dog food
$7.99
-$3 q
=$4.99 (18 lb bag!!!)


CVS:
Colgate
$2.88
-$2 ECB
-$1 q
=FREE + .12 overage!

All of the other items were on sale for:
.99
-.99 ECB
=FREE!!!

~Sassy Savings Seminar/Party!~

Last night was so much fun! I enjoyed meeting and getting to know all of you girls. Amber, your home is fabulous! Thank you for hosting. Dinner was great! I had a wonderful time sharing my information and I hope that each of your families will be blessed. Thank you all!

*The beautiful historical home where the seminar was held

*The backyard looked like something out of a magazine. So beautiful!

*The kitchen with the perfect combination of old and new. Love all of the black, white and stainless with crystal knobs!

*The entire gang!

*Look at all of these sassy binders!

*The hostess, Amber, is the girl in the middle.




*On my way to the party!

~FREE Mocha Monday!~

Starting July 13th McDonald’s will be offering free 8 oz Mochas every Monday through August 3rd. This offer is good between the hours of 7 am and 7 pm (while supplies last). No purchase necessary!
For more details:
http://www2.mcdonalds.com/mccafe/

Happy Mochas!

~Another Seminar!~

Monday evening I will be teaching another seminar, but this time the girl hosting is calling it a "Sassy Savings Party!". She is having dinner & desserts = yummy! I will try to remember to take pictures this time. I just get so wrapped up in what we are talking about that I don't think to grab my camera. I promise, I will try to remember tomorrow!
I had a funny thing happen to me Saturday night while at a birthday party. A girl came up to me and said "you are the queen of sassy savings!" I smiled and said yes. She said that she was from the Austin area and has her entire town reading. She was the cutest and sweetest little momma of 3 girls! I got to meet the husband too. They were an adorable family! Thank you so much for giving me that compliment. Sometimes I wonder if I am just wasting my time doing this blog because it does take up a great deal of time between my research and then just the time typing and such. Then I will have a person say that they check it everyday and I remember why I do it. So, thank you for the reminder.
This week will be a little off for me. I don't plan on doing any shopping..You heard me right...No shopping for a week! I will post any great deals I run across between now and Wednesday. I won't have internet access after that until next week.
Hope you all have a very blessed week!

~FREE Starbucks Pastry July 21st~

Starbucks is giving out 1 FREE pastry per customer with a drink purchase on July 21! This is offer ends at 10:30 am or until pastry supply is gone.
For complete details, go to the Starbucks website. Must present invitation for the offer.
http://www.starbucks.com/retail/print_free_pastry.html

~Kroger $5.79~

Today was not a big trip for me. I just wanted to get a few of the participating items they had on sale. They are having their "buy 10 participating items...get $5 off sale", which makes for some good deals when combined with coupons!

*Do you notice the princess taking a picture of the items on the other side of the island? When we get home, she runs to get her camera to take pictures too. How funny is that?! I just love that little lady bug ;)

2 Stayfree
Reg. $3.19
Sale $1.99
-$1 q
-BOGO Q
=.49 each!

4 Kleenex
Reg. $2.09
Sale $.99
-.50/2
=.49 per box

Keebler cookies
Reg. $3.17
Sale $1.49
-$1 q
=.49

2 Gardetto's
Reg. $2.69
Sale $1.49
-.50/2 q
=.99 each

2 Kraft dressing
Reg. $1.69
Sale $1.19
-$1 q
=.19 each!

Retail: $26.67
Spent: $5.79
Saved: $20.88 or almost 80% savings!

~A few more Kroger items~

*Items I got for FREE!

2 Grapenuts cereal
reg. $3.19
sale $2.50
-$1/2
=$2 per box

Bounty
Reg. $1.49 (some were $1.39, these were reg. $1.49)
sale $1
-.25 q (tripled)
-.25 e saver
=FREE!

PUR water filter
$19.99
-$5 e saver
-$7.50 q
=$7.49 (this was a great deal!)

Digiorno Pizza (very good pizza)
Reg. $6.59
sale $4.99
-$1.25 q
=$3.74

Degree
$2.59
-$1.25q
=1.34 (not the best deal, but hubby needed it)

Degree spray mist
$3.89
-B1 degree deo...get spray FREE q
=FREE!

Salad kit
reg.$2.79
sale $2/4
*rang up $2.79, so I took it to the service desk and they did a price check. It was labeled wrong, so I got it for FREE since it rang up wrong. yeah!
=FREE!

Retail: $43.72
Spent: $16.57
Saved: $27.15 or 62%

~Menu Planning Monday~

How has everyone been doing with the menu planning? I think I've mentioned it before that my cute hubby chooses the menu for the week. Once written down, based off of what we have in the freezer & pantry, I then decide what day to make it. It works out great because he gets to be part of the process too. Plus, he loves choosing the meals!
Here is a rundown of what we will be eating this week:
Poppyseed Chicken
Chicken/Noodle/Cheese casserole
Tacos & pinto beans
Breakfast Burritos
Steak, potato & green beans
Enchiladas
Hot dogs (eating at a birthday party )
Once I have the main course set, I can add some sides to complete the meal.

~CVS Today!~

Okay, I'm back on track now! We have a routine that every Sunday morning I look over my ads and plan my CVS trip and get my coupons ready. We drop by CVS and do a quick run through to get my bargains and then head over to church. Sadly, some of the items are already sold out by 9 am! Luckily today a sweet cashier told me that they were offering the 10 count pens at the same price and ECB as the 8 count in the ad since they sold out so quickly. That one worked in my favor!
Another tip....this one is VERY IMPORTANT....ALWAYS BE NICE TO THE CASHIER!!! They remember you and will have favor on you and your coupons in the future. Promise ;)


The FREE stuff after coupons & ECBS!



3 Paper Mate pens
Reg. $1.99
sale .99
-.99 ECB
=FREE!!!

2 Caliber notebooks
Reg. $2.79
sale .99
-.99 ECB
=FREE!!!

Gain
$5.99
-$1 q
-$2 ECB
=$2.99

Olay Deal...spend $20 and get $10 ECBS
Eye cream Reg $10.99
sale $9.99
(3) $3.99 toner
=21.96 total
-$1 q
-$1 q
-$1 q
-$1 q
-$10 ECB
=$7.96 (for almost $22 worth of product!)

Gillette Fusion razor
Reg. $9.99
sale $7.99
-$4 ECB
-$4 q
=FREE!!!

3 Tylenol
Reg. $5.99
sale $3.99
-$3 ECB
-$1 q
=FREE!!!

Retail: $68.46
Spent: $10.95
Saved: $57.51 or 84%!