~Home Depot Coupon Offer~

Those of you who have been reading this blog for anytime know that I love saving energy and money. So, I am super excited about this LED Christmas light offer from Home Depot!
Here's the deal: Bring in your old Christmas lights to Home Depot and get a $3 coupon for each set (limit 5) good on any energy efficient LED Christmas lights. That should make the lights (with promo) as low as $2.97 after the coupon.
Still sound expensive??? Well, the LED lights use 80% less energy than the old lights. So, you will be saving on your electric bill too! I can't wait to get my lights down and trade them in :)

Offer good November 5-15, 2009.

~CVS $5 off $30 Coupon~

CVS has another great $5 off $30 purchase coupon by taking a Medicare quiz HERE
It only takes a minute or two to take the quiz.

~Chick-Fil-A Offer!~

Chick-Fil-A has a great deal going on through November. Purchase a $20 gift card and get a FREE 2010 calendar. The calendar has $30 worth of coupons in it. We love Chick-Fil-A, so this is a super offer for us. Actually, everyone I know loves it too! Enjoy :)
You can view the calendar and coupons HERE

~The Power of Clearance!~

This is an example of what you can get by looking at the clearance section. Last week I ran into CVS to check on something and noticed a 90% off clearance basket. Woohoo! So, I got 21 items for $2.10!!!

~Menu Monday~

Yes, it's Monday again. You know what that means...get in the kitchen and start planning your menu out :)
We have been gone for the past 3 days and I'm exhausted! I love to eat out, which we did. However, after about 2 days I'm ready for something else.

Hope you all had a great weekend and saved BIG!

~Old Navy Codes~

Don't have time to go shopping? Today is your lucky day! I have several great on-line offers. Enjoy!

Get FREE shipping at Oldnavy.com by using code ONSHIPFREE TODAY! Also, get an additional 30% off by using your Old Navy card along with code ONSTUFF30.

~Forever 21 Free Shipping Code!~

Fan of Forever 21? If so, this is a good offer for you!

Use code F21FRIENDS to get FREE shipping on your order. Offer good through November 2nd.

I just looked at forever21.com and they have tons of sale stuff for $5.99!

~FREE Offer~

Get a FREE Soccer ball when you send in 3 UPC labels from Scott products! See details HERE
Offer ends November 15th.

Mail the UPC codes along with your full name, address and phone number (no receipt is needed) to:

Soccer Ball Offer
8250 NW 27th Street, Suite 301
Miami, FL 33122

If you have any Scott products in your stockpile, this is a really great offer for you. Again, think Christmas gifts!

~Payless Coupon!~

Get 50% off at Payless Shoe Source thanks to Oprah. Go HERE for details!

~Coupon Inserts Scheduled~

Just wanted to let you all know that I will be taking a long weekend away from the blog. Hope you all save BIG over the weekend!
Also, there are several printable coupons that match up with Kroger's sale on my coupons.com sidebar. Go there and print to take advantage of the FREE or super cheap items.

One more thing...

On Sunday (October 1st), the following coupon inserts are scheduled to be in the paper:
Smart Source
RedPlum
Procter & Gamble

Have a blessed weekend!

~My Couponing Trip Today!~

Kroger is having an AWESOME sale that started today. There are some really great deals with coupons. FREE stuff too! Be sure to plan your trip and count your items, so that you can get the promo discount. It can be a little confusing. Remember that you have to buy 10 participating (mix & match) sale items to get the $5 off. Happy Krogering :)


Spent $7.35
Saved -over $70!
*I also bought 3 roast, but they are not included in the price spent or the pic.

Spent: $3.43
Saved: $71.76 or 95%!!!


Wal-mart
sale $1
-$1/2 coupon
=.50 each
*I have not bought bologna in years, but at this price I couldn't pass it up. My hubby will be excited to see something other than turkey!

Here's another FREE panty and $10 off bra at Victoria's Secret coupon HERE

No purchase necessary. Great deal!

~$1 Yankee Candles!~

Awesome Yankee candle deal! $1 Tarts & Votives, click HERE for details. They offer $5 flat rate shipping too.
These make great little add-on gifts for teachers!

~Menu Monday~

What ya got cookin'? How's about cookin' something up with me!

Well, folks...it's Monday again. Is it just me or are these weeks flying by??? I have not set my menu just yet. I do know I will be making baked ziti w/ french bread one night because I'm taking it to a friend who just had baby #2.

What's cooking in your house this week?

After looking at the ads this morning, I don't think I will be going to CVS or Walgreen's this week. I'm a little excited about that. Sometimes it is nice to not have to worry about missing a deal. I'm hoping they have some great deals next week!
Reminder: You have until Tuesday at close to get your FREE after coupon Aquafresh and Colgate toothpaste at Kroger. Aquafresh is on sale for $1 and Colgate is on sale for .94. Even if you don't use these brands, these are great items to donate.

Looking for a place to donate? Please email me at coachoshields@hotmail.com and I will tell you where my donations will be going for the holiday season.

Blessings!

~Yankee Candle coupon codes!~

You all know how much I LOVE Yankee Candles! I ordered 2 (Home for the Holidays) candles when they had the last sale. They are such awesome candles! They have some pretty sweet coupon codes again:

*Use code CRM911L and get 2 FREE large candles when you buy 2!

*Use code CRM911M and get 2 FREE medium jar candles when you buy 2!

*Use code CRM911S and get 2 FREE small jar candles when you buy 2!

Offer expires November 29th and shipping starts at $6.

These make great Christmas gifts :)

~2 Coupon Inserts Scheduled~

There are 2 coupon inserts scheduled for the Sunday paper.
1 Red Plum
1 Smart Source

Happy Saturday!

~Children's Place Coupon~

Enjoy a 15% off coupon to The Children's Place. My favorite store to shop for my little lady! Print Here
Offer good through November 16th.

~FREE Island Magazine~

You all know how much I LOVE the islands. If you like them also, sign up for a complimentary subscription to Islands. Enjoy a 12 issues with no strings attached. I have been signing up for FREE magazines the past couple months and have already received 8 in the mail. Now, if I could only find time to read them!


http://www.valuemags.com/freeoffer/freeoffer.asp?offer=Islands-RDC.asp

~Printable Coupons!~

I'm excited to offer printable coupons from Coupons.com now on my side bar. This is something that I have been wanting to offer for a while. So, go print and enjoy.

Blessings!

~Sassy Savings Seminar/Party!~

Last night Toni hosted a Sassy Savings Coupon Seminar/party. We had so much fun! Who knew you laugh so much while learning about coupons?! Thanks to everyone who came last night. A special thanks to Toni for hosting in her beautifully decorated home.


*Mother & Daughter Sassy Savers!

*Some of my church friends and the youngest Sassy Saver yet! This little Sassy Saver is only 4 months old :)

*Toni (the hostess) is wearing the black shirt. There was another Sassy Saver (Heather), but I didn't get her picture.

Thanks again girls!

~20% Off Container Store!~

I'm so excited! I just found a 20% off printable coupon to one of my favorite stores EVER!!! The Container Store is amazing. We invested in the Elfa system for the kitchen pantry and bathroom and LOVE THEM! Yes, they were expensive...however I plan on using them forever. There is also an online code savenow you can use at checkout if shopping on-line.

http://images.containerstore.com/pdf/octoffer.pdf

~Great Gifts From Couponing!~

Several of you have asked me to write about different gift ideas from coupons. This year I will be giving the best gifts and will have spent the least amount of money. I will be giving good quality gifts (the kind I would like to receive).
Here is a list of gift ideas from couponing:

Candles (you can get these FREE or nearly FREE)

Diffuser (FREE or super cheap)

Starbucks coffee ($1/2 bags coupon) I'm not a coffee drinker, but most people are. You could make a cute little gift with a bag of Starbucks and I'm sure it would be cheaper than a Starbucks gift card.

Lotions (Bath & Body works is always having a promo of some sort)

A Dessert Basket (take a recipe and include all of the ingredients into the basket)...gifts like this presentation is important! You could include all of the FREE ingredients that you have been collecting. Yeah!

Travel kits (if you are buying for someone who travels a great deal or has a special trip planned, get them a bunch of travel sized goodies) You can get tons of this stuff for FREE with coupons!

Household items...I made a basket full of cleaning supplies, paper goods and other household items as a wedding gift for some friends. The recipients were thrilled because it is all stuff they needed. I put it in a dishpan and added a super cute poem that related to the items and marriage. I was very proud to give it to them. The best part....everything was purchased with coupons! What retailed for over $30, I spent less than $5.

Favorite Things...Figure out what your recipients favorite things are and make them a basket. The fact that you took time to put together their favorite things will be so special. There are coupons out there for most every personal care item, so have fun with it!

Grilling Gifts...If you have someone who loves to grill or just loves to eat (he he), put together a basket with different seasonings & marinades. Men love these types of gifts!

Coupon booklet...If you know of a service that you could offer, make a personalized coupon booklet for the recipient. Example: 2 hours of FREE babysitting, etc. There are endless possibilities for a personalized coupon booklet!

Animal Lover Gift Basket...If the recipient is a cat or dog lover, make them a gift with treats and toys for their animal. There are always tons of coupons for treats.

Don't underestimate your local dollar store for add-on items to combine with your coupon gifts. They have cute gift bags and other plastic items that would be cute to put a gift in. Again, you might have to think outside the box (put a ribbon on a plastic trashcan to make a basket). It is also a great place to shop if you go with the recipe gift basket. They have $1 utensils that would be cute to put in with the basket. Also, they have cute mugs to put with the Starbucks coffee. Literally, the possibilities are endless here.

Remember giving gifts is not about the amount spent, but the thought and the quality of the item (meaning-don't give people a bunch of junk they are going to throw away...it is a waste of your precious money). Instead give them thoughtful gifts by using coupons that you can afford. Have fun with it and enjoy giving this year. The season is not about being stressed about giving gifts. Giving should bring you joy!

If you have an idea you would like to share, please leave a comment or email me (coachoshields@hotmail.com).

Hope this helps!

Be Blessed :)

~American Girl Deal!~

Think Christmas gifts....if you have a little girl in your life who likes American girl, this might be the perfect gift!

Americangirl.com has a Schooltime Backpacks for Dolls and Girls for $8 (orig. $20). Plus, free shipping use coupon code: PF99058 .

http://store.americangirl.com/agshop/html/ProductPage.jsf/itemId/141855/itemType/TOY/webTemplateId/3/uniqueId/445/saleGroupId/480

~Be a winner at Gap!~

Be a Winner at Gap! Bring in the coupon and you will win. See below for details. Offer ends October 25.

http://gap.m.delivery.net/w/webView?cid=16115463750&mid=1858756459&pid=780062&vid=3&ee=cmFjaGFlbGRld2JlcnJ5QHlhaG9vLmNvbQ__&si=&mv=H&bv=H&oc=H&sc=&k=1kobzh

Thanks Rach ;)

~Menu Monday~

It is Monday already again, can you believe it? I have a super busy week this week. I need to be serious about my menu plan of attack!

Crock pot BBQ Chicken
Enchiladas
Hamburgers
Grilled Steak, potato, broccoli

This is my game plan so far. Depending on time, I may just do tacos instead of the enchiladas. What's on your menu?

Have a great Monday!

~CVS Coupons Today~

What am I getting at CVS this week???


Glade Reed Diffuser or 10 oz Soy Candle $6.99
-get $6.99 ECB
- 3.00 q
=FREE + profit


I was excited this morning when they actually still had a candle left. I would have been fine with the diffuser, but really wanted the candle. When I returned to the car my hubby said "do we get to keep that one?" Ha! I am forever looking for "gifts", however we may just be burning this one for ourselves :)

*This qualifies for the SC Johnson $5 Rebate also. Yeah!

Be blessed!

~Bath & Body Works Coupon~

Free travel size item with any purchase. Right now they have some $1 lotions at the counter. These make great gifts!

http://f.chtah.com/i/34/528207786/20090922_coupon.html?email=

Couponing & deals today

Here are some of the deals that I went in to Kroger for today. A couple are not in the pic (my "helper" was hiding a sack full of goldfish!). I've listed the things that are "stock-up" on prices. The only reason I only purchased 3 cheeses is because I have at least 6 in my freezer (if you were wondering).

Goldfish
sale $1 (stock-up price!)

Grapes
sale $1 per lb

Apples
sale $1 per lb

Carrots
sale $1 per bag

Potatoes
sale $2.99

8 Campbell's cooking soups
sale 4/$3
-.30/3 (tripled)
=.52 per can (stock-up price!)

4 Campbell's Chunky soups
sale $1
-.40/2 (doubled)
=.60 per can! (stock-up price!)

Cheerios
sale $2.50
-.55q
=$1.95 (not the greatest deal, but it is a big box)

3 Cheese
sale $1 (this is a stock-up price! This cheese freezes well)

Peanut Butter
sale $1

Airwick
sale $1
-.50 q (doubled)
=FREE!

4 AquaFresh
sale $1
-$1 q (also some .50 q's doubled)
=FREE

Dial Soap
sale $1
-.35 q (tripled)
=FREE!

Lunchable w/ water
$3.89
-FREE coupon
=FREE!

Yoplait
.50
-FREE coupon
=FREE!

Turkey
$1.88
-.45 (doubled)
=.98

Tortillas
sale $1 (stock-up price....these also freeze well)
-$1 q
=FREE!


Spent less than $20...saved over $50!

~Coupons Inserts Sunday~

There are 2 coupon inserts scheduled for this Sunday:

Smart Source
Red Plum

Happy Clipping!

~VS Coupon~

Get a free Pink Panty plus $10 off any bra coupon from Victoria’s Secret!

Join or sign in to get your coupon:
https://secure.vspink.com/pink_nation/login.jsp

I heart FREE VS Panties!

Coupons and Donations

Christmas is coming and that means DONATIONS, DONATIONS, DONATIONS! Couponing is a perfect way to be able to give when you normally would not be able too. It feels so good to bless others.
Will you all join me in my excitement for being able to help families in need this holiday season? This is a great opportunity to bless others and remember the true meaning of the season.

Great things to donate (from couponing):
boxed food items
canned food items
shampoo
razors
toothbrushes
toothpaste

Be blessed!

~Denny's Coupon!~

Denny's FREE burger & fries w/ purchase of burger, fries and 2 drinks coupon!


http://dennys.com/en/emailblast1009.html

~La Madeleine FREE Pastry Coupon!~

Get a free Pastry at La Madeleine! Offer expires 11/15/09. Enjoy!


http://lamadeleinecafe.fbmta.com/members/ViewMailing.aspx?MailingID=40802191723

~Land's End shoe sale for girls!~

*Update: This deal has now EXPIRED!


Land's End has Girls Everyday Trekker Zip Shoes marked from $34.50 down to $5.00 with many colors and sizes to choose from.

Use code HEARTH with pin 4330 for FREE shipping!


http://www.landsend.com/pp/TrekkerZipShoes~198286_-1.html?bcc=y&action=order_more&sku_0=::CAM&CM_MERCH=IDX_00004_0000000022&origin=index



Thanks Slickdeals!

~Menu Monday!~

Almost forgot....is your menu ready for the week???

Roast, potatoes & carrots
Poppyseed Chicken
Chili w/ beans
Baked Ziti w/ french bread
bbq crock pot chicken, brocolli & noodles

Happy planning ;)

~Frozen Foods Rebate~

I don't buy any of these items, but some of you might. So, I thought I would pass this along.
A Frozen foods rebate. The “Real Meal Deal” is buy 5 participating products and get $5 in coupons back.

Participating Products are:
Duncan Hines Oven Ready Brownies
Mrs. Paul’s Seafood
Van de Kamps Seafood
Lenders Bagels
Aunt Jemima Breakfast
Hungry Man Dinners

Purchase your items between 10/11/09 -11/09/09. Link to form below:

http://therealmealdeal.com/

~Johnson's deal~

Purchase any Johnson's bath or lotion product between 9/28/09 - 12/01/09 and get a FREE bath toy frog set ($10 value) in the mail! Allow 6-8 weeks for delivery.

Mail your receipt (dated) to:

Johnson & Johnson / Parents GWP
375 Lexington Avenue, 10th Floor
New York, NY 10017

*Even if you don't have children who use Johnson's, this is a great gift combo for someone else! Plan ahead and save money :)

~Walgreens photo deal~

Walgreen's .10 prints on orders of 50 or more!

Enter coupon code EVERYLAST at checkout. Offer valid until Saturday, October 17th.

~Groceries this week~

Several of you have emailed and asked what I buy when I'm not stocking up on great deals. So, here are my groceries that I bought today. I did use coupons on the soups, Hunt's sauce and lunch meat. Most everything else was on sale. After coupons and using a $10 credit, I spent around $9.00! It is amazing how little you can spend when you don't have to buy meat, toiletries and snack items each week. The weeks that I am not stocking up, try to spend around $20-$30.

~Saving big, but not always!~

I thought this went without saying, but I guess not. A "deal" is only a deal if you can afford it. You can go into debt "saving money". I know, sounds weird! That is why a budget is so important. Deals are only sweet if you are truly saving money.

Example 1: I had a girl tell me that she saved over $1000 last month. Sounds impressive, right?
Reality: Wrong! She had to spend over $700 to save $1000. Not good!

Example 2: A girl told me of a great deal she got on some clothes for herself.
Reality: She had no business spending any money on anything because she simply doesn't have money in her budget for it. Regardless if it was really inexpensive, it should not have been purchased. She didn't "save" any money, she spent money she didn't have.

My point here is that you must show some self restraint in all aspects of life, including couponing. You don't want to get caught up in every deal. If I went out and got in on every deal that I see each day, I would be WAY OVER BUDGET!

Be blessed!

~FREE!~

Get 10 FREE Ovulation tests or pregnancy tests. You can mix and match up to 10. Ovulation tests are normally super expensive, so this is a great deal! Thank you Sacred Heart Mission.


http://www.freeopks.com/

$10 off Rainforest Cafe Coupon!

$10 off $25 at Rainforest Cafe Coupon! Offer is good until 12/31/09.

http://www.murgent.com/users/job_link.php?job=2524-EC-091007-00&tr=41ea6210&mqcid=116222003

~Kellogg's $10 Bonus Bucks!~

Kellogg's is running a new promotion that sounds pretty great! Buy 3 participating boxes of cereal and get $10 in bonus bucks via mail. To find out all of the details, please see the link below.


http://www2.kelloggs.com/Promotion/PromotionDetail.aspx?PID=20116

~Big Lots 20% coupon!~

Go to the link below and sign up for the Big Lots Buzz Club and get a 20% off coupon. I love Big Lots and think they have awesome deals already on certain things, so to add an additional 20% off it huge! We went and purchased some shelving units for the garage and a space heater. The coupon saved us over $20.

https://www.biglots.com/Join/default.aspx?carry=club%2fmember_profile.aspx

~3 Coupon Inserts Sunday~

This Sunday (October 11th) there should be 3 coupons inserts in the paper:

(1) SmartSource
(1) RedPlum
(1) P&G

~Walgreen's yesterday~

Without spending a ton of time, this is what I could make of all my receipts. Remember me saying that my receipts were not correct? Well, I ended up having to return a few items, exchange some items, etc. It got messy! Here is what I can make of it all ;)


Total out-of-pocket here (after all the q's, RR's, etc)= $2.71!


Total Out-of-pocket (after all the q's, RR's, etc)= $1.39!

*The receipts say that I saved over $140 on these purchases!

~Crazy Coupon Day!~

Again, no matter how long you have been doing this and how easy it starts to get...you run into a snag! Today I had a great game plan for Wal-greens. Tons on my list and tons of awesome deals. I get there and the parking lot is full. Really? I go in and they are remodeling, yet staying open. It was a nightmare! Nothing was where it normally is and many shelves were empty. Not good. I only got a portion that was on my list.
So, I try a different Wal-greens this evening in a different city. Long story long, it was not a good experience either. Very frustrating! It is my policy to be OVERLY nice regardless of the service (or lack of) that I am receiving. I try to be a blessing to the cashiers no matter what. It was challenging tonight, I've got to be honest. I won't go into details, but I am not happy with my customer service experience at all. This is why I prefer CVS over Wal-greens. ECB's are so much more user friendly than Register Rewards ANYDAY!
I will post pics of my deals tomorrow once I figure them out! Literally, I had to return, exchange, you name it because my receipts were wrong. What a mess!
Having said that, not every day is easy coupon day....However, I still LOVE it and am blessing my family beyond belief by saving us so much money.
Be blessed!

~Coach Outlet Coupon!~

This is a coupon that doesn't come around very often. So, if you are a Coach purse girl....this one is for you!

Get 20% off your purchase coupon at Coach Outlet stores! This coupon is good October 6th to October 12th only.

https://e.coach.com/servlet/website/PersonalizedForm?JhHJoEVTTCUTTY_XVWVZ_.40HJmhkRE.26f7be_7.2e.2ey.26zzEnHKKR_KLHslFHmmDgLmEikpgmwHnLEmkNL

~Another Christmas Gift Idea~

Have a history buff in your life??? Want the perfect Christmas gift for them? This just might be it! The History Channel Store has a great sale going on right now. There are over 1500 exclusive titles to choose from. Just add three to your cart, and it will total $30. These DVDs are all regularly $24.95 and up each, which makes this a great deal! Free shipping on orders of $75 or more.



http://shop.history.com/?ecid=AFF-7975437&afsrc=1

~FREE from The Picture People!~

FREE 8X10 or 10X13 plus 20% off additional portrait order coupon from The Picture People. Offer good October 4-31, 2009.


http://www.picturepeople.com/promotion/web_landing.html

~FREE Movie!~

Use code QNGJ7KD to get a FREE movie rental at any Redbox. Offer good today only!

~Kroger .19 cents!~

10 AirWick (I think that will cover me for 2010 now!)
Reg. $1.09
Sale .69-$1
-$1 q
=FREE + .39 overage on some!

3 BC Cake Mix
Reg. $1.99
Sale $1.00
-.50q (doubled)
=FREE!


4 Campbell's soup
Reg. .73
sale .50
-.40/2 (doubled)
-.30/2 (tripled)
=.30 for all 4!

Bananas (not in pic)
.74

Retail: $20.53
Spent: .19 cents or a savings of 99%!

~Expired Coupons 9/30/09~

FYI: I just went through my binder and tons of coupons expired on 9/30/09.

Don't think you have time to keep up with a binder??? Multi-task with it! I was just watching the game with my hubby and cleaning out and clipping coupons at the same time. We all sit down to watch t.v. at some point during the week. Why not make it productive?

Boomer Sooner! (they are playing as I type)

Hope you all are having a great weekend :)

Be blessed!

~Kroger~

Ran to Kroger to pick up a few deals this week.

2 Softsoap
Reg. $1.59
sale .99 (this might be a closeout item, because it was the only scent marked down)
-$1 q
=FREE!

2 Pizza Rolls
Reg. $1.99
sale .99
-.35 q (tripled)
=FREE!

1 Tony's pizza
Reg. $2.75
sale $1.99
-.50 q (doubled)
=.99

Green Giant
Reg. $1.89
sale $1.25
-.50 q (doubled)
=.25

BC Cake Mix
Reg. $1.99
sale $1.00
-.50 q (doubled)
=FREE!

Retail: $13.79
Spent: $1.24 or 91% savings!!!

~CVS Deal~

4 Tide
$6 = $24
-(4) $1 q's
=$20

1 Dawn
$1.00
-.75 q
=.25

*Spend $25 (before q's) get $10 ECB back deal.

Total: $20.25
-$5 CVS q
=$15.25
-$10 ECB earned
=$5.25!!! (Basically, I got each item for $1.05!!!)

Woohoo!!!

~Coupon Comedy~

My 3 year old daughter had some of my heels on and said to me:
"Mommy, tell me my shoes are cute"
Me:
"Your shoes are super cute!"
Her:
"Thank you so much. I got them at CVS!"
Me:
"Did you get a good deal on them?"
Her:
"Yes, $6!"
Me:
"Did you use coupons?"
Her:
"Yes, I used coupons and a gift card!"


That really cracked me up! I was waiting for her to say that she transferred a script too!!! :)

~3 Coupon Inserts Sunday~

The Sunday paper should have 3 coupons inserts:

Smartsource
Red Plum
General Mills


Happy Clipping!

~B1G1 Yankee Candles!~

This is a great deal on my favorite candles!!! These candles make awesome Christmas gifts :)

Yankee Candle is having a B1G1 Free sale on the large candles! Use code XF910A7 at checkout. The large candles end up being 2 for $25. Offer expires October 4, 2009.

*Shipping is a flat rate of $5 or free shipping if you spend over $100.

If you plan on going to the store, print the coupon below:

http://www.yankeecandle.com/yc/html/retail/Email_HTML/webCoupon_XF910A7.html

~Great Rebate Offer!~

SC Johnson is offering a $5 rebate for any 3 items purchased. I don't do many rebates, but this one it worth it! You can print the form from the link below:



http://www.scjohnson.com/en/products/coupons.aspx

~Stockpile~

So, are you wondering what I could possibly be doing with all of this stuff???
Well, there are 3 things I do with it:

1. Use it!
2. Sell some of it to my mom
3. Donate some of it

I've set a little (gigantic) goal for myself for 2010. My goal is to not have to buy any shampoo, toothpaste, dish soap, laundry detergent, plastic sandwich bags, tissue, foil, deo., feminine products, etc. in 2010. I know, crazy! I have a very large stockpile growing for all of these items currently. Now, I will go ahead and get it if the item is for free in 2010. I want to see just how much those items impact my bottom line for 1 year. Since I have tracked all of my spending for 2009, this should be interesting.

Did I mention that I love challenging myself?!

Do you have any goals set for 2010??? (Jamie~ I fully expect to hear from you on this!)

~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