Amy's Life

Egg Roll Recipe

2011-11-06T14:16:00.003-06:00

Here is a recipe my mom uses to make egg rolls.

Egg Roll Filling
1 lb. ground pork browned (can use cooked chicken or turkey, shredded)
shredded cabbage
chopped onions
shredded carrots
chopped mushrooms
water chestnuts (canned)
3 scrambled eggs (chopped)
soy sauce
egg roll wrappers

Optional (all chopped):
broccoli
green beans
califlower
shredded cheese

Simply add all ingredients you choose in a large bowl, add soy sauce for seasoning. Put a spoonful of the mixture into an egg roll wrapper and roll up. Fry for a few minutes on each side until brown. Serve with sweet & sour sauce, if desired.

Sweet & Sour Sauce
8 tbls ketchup
8 tbls sugar
4 tbls vinegar
8 tbls water mixed with 1 tsp cornstarch
1 tsp soy sauce

Mix together and heat on stove until hot and desired consistency.

OK, that is the written recipe, NOW, this is how I do it.

1-2 cups of cooked shredded chicken
1 bag of coleslaw mix
2 small cans of water chestnuts, chopped
1 can of green beans, chopped
1 bag of velveeta shredded cheese
4-5 shakes of Soy sauce

2 packages of egg roll wrappers

I LOVE THESE!! I am thinking I need to make them again soon.

Chocolate Chip & Butterscotch Cookie Bar

2011-06-22T07:08:00.002-05:00

Ok, I forgot to take the picture after we baked this cookie. It was very good and is now all gone. This cookie bar is something I make for my dad. He likes the butterscotch and chocolate chip combination. I planned to give some to him for Father's Day, but the girls decided they liked it enough, that we just ate it.

Basically I follow the recipe for cookies found on the package, but instead of adding the whole bag of chocolate chips, I just ad half and then use half a bag of butterscotch chips. Then instead of making them into cookies, I just make a bar cookie. It is a nice change to regular chocolate chip cookies.

Maybe I will make this again sometime and actually take an after picture and share it with my dad!

Homemade Doggie Treats

2011-06-22T07:06:00.002-05:00

One of the things the girls & I wanted to do this summer was to make our dog some homemade treats. We looked at a lot of recipes, but ultimately decided on THIS RECIPE. It was simple to make and we had everything we needed.

Ingredients:

2 cups whole-wheat flour
1 tbsp baking powder
1 cup peanut butter (we used smooth)
1 cup milk

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375.
Combine flour and baking powder.
In another bowl, mix peanut butter and milk, then add to dry ingredients and mix well.
Place dough on a lightly floured surface and knead.
Roll dough to 1/4 inch thick & use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes
Bake for 20 minutes.

Our dog loved this treats! We will be making them again for her sometime.

Carrot Zucchini Cake

2011-06-22T07:04:00.002-05:00

I found this recipe in with my mom's recipes a while back. We made it our own, but another version can be found HERE.

Here is how we make it:

Ingredients:

4 eggs
2 cups sugar
1.33 cups vegetable oil
2.5 cups all purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking soda
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 cups finely shredded carrots
2 cups finely shredded zucchini

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs and sugar.
Gradually beat in oil.
Combine dry ingredients and add to batter.
Beat 4 minutes.
Stir in carrots and zucchini.
Pour batter into jelly roll pan.
Bake until cake springs back when touched.
Cool completely.

Sprinkle top with powdered sugar if desired.

Hashbrown Casserole

2011-06-22T07:02:00.003-05:00

We finally took picture of us making one of my favorite casseroles. I blogged about it a while back HERE. Cassidy is a very good helper and is willing to help her mama with anything. So here is the recipe again:

Ingredients:
-1 can cream of chicken soup
-2 cups cheddar cheese
-1 stick (1/2 cup) melted butter
-1 bag (2 lb) frozen shredded hash browns
-salt, pepper, onion to taste

Combine all ingredient except the hash browns. Then gently fold the hash browns into the mixture and pour into a 9x13 greased pan. Bake at 350 for 45-60 minutes, until top is browned.

Clean & Organized Cabinet

2011-06-22T07:01:00.001-05:00

I am sure most of you have an unorganized cabinet in your kitchen. If you don't, I am impressed! Anyway, I recently decided to work on cleaning up my most unorganized cabinet. I forgot to take a before picture, but you can just use your imagination. It was so full, things would be about to fall out if you opened the cabinet. This was my tupperware (or plastic storage, because not much is actually tupperware) cabinet. It got so bad, I didn't use anything out of that cabinet unless I had to, I would rather put everything in baggies. I had enough! Lowes had a stainless steel cabinet organizer that I purchased. I would love to have these in all my cabinets, but they are a bit pricey. They are however worth it. As you can see, I now have a clean and organized cabinet. I LOVE it. I am able to find anything I need. Now, I just have to keep it looking like this! :)

Crockpot Cavatini

2011-06-22T06:59:00.001-05:00

Not long ago, I was looking for a new recipe for the crock pot when I came across this recipe for Crockpot Cavatini found HERE.

I adapted it to meet our needs & the food we had stocked in our pantry. Here is how I made it:

2 c. pasta (any kind of noodle type pasta)
1 lb. deer burger
Pepperoni (from Pizza Pro)
1 jar (32 oz.) spaghetti sauce
2 c. Mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 c. Cheddar cheese, shredded

Cook macaroni and drain.
Brown burger and drain. Add the spaghetti sauce and mix together.

In a medium to large crockpot, layer 1/2 macaroni, 1/2 sauce mixture, 1/2 pepperoni, 1/2 cheese. Continue in layers until all is used ending with cheese on the top.
Cook on low for 3 to 4 hours.
I used this garden delight pasta to add some extra veggies.

Here is a picture everything in the crock pot ready to cook. I didn't take an after picture, but the cheese is melted and it is yummy!

Kroger Trip - May 12, 2011

2011-05-12T10:55:00.000-05:00

I made a trip to Kroger today to take advantage of some of the items on sale with the Mega Sale going on now. I also had a few things to pick up. Here is the breakdown:

Before Coupons and Kroger Savings: $83.24
Kroger Plus Savings: $36.72
Coupon Savings: $20.62
Total Saved: $57.34
Total Paid: $25.90

I saved over 65%!!

Here is what I got:

Diet Dr. Pepper 6 @ $1.25 each
-Buy 4 get 2 free (Kroger Promotion)
=$0.84 each

Captain Crunch Cereal $2.49
-$0.50 Mega Sale
-$0.50 coupon 4/17 paper (doubled to $1.00)
=$0.99

Motts Apple Juice $2.49
-$0.50 Mega Sale
=$1.99 (which was cheaper than the Kroger brand)

Blue Diamond Almonds $2.49
-$0.50 Mega Sale
-$0.50 printable coupon (doubled to $1.00)
=$0.99

Ronzoni Pasta 10 @ $0.99 each
-$5.00 Mega Sale ($0.50 for each item)
-$1.00/2 printable coupon or HERE or HERE
=10 for FREE

Boulder Canyon Potato Chips 5 @ $1.49 each
-$2.50 Mega Sale ($0.50 for each item)
-$1.00 printable coupon (use zip code 90210) or
$1.00/2 printable coupon
=1 for FREE and 4 @ $0.49 each

Mom's Best Natural Cereal $1.49
-$0.50 Mega Sale
-$0.75 printable coupon
=$0.24

Capri Sun $1.99
-$0.50 Mega Sale
=$1.49

Kroger Milk $3.35

Kroger Cashews $2.79

Kroger Non Dairy Creamer $3.25

Kroger Moist Wipes $0.79 (on clearance)

Crunch Candy Bars 2 @ $0.50 each
-$0.50 coupon 5/1 paper (doubled to $1.00)
=2 for FREE

International Delight Creamer $2.29
-$2.29 Free product coupon received in the mail
=FREE

Suave Dry Shampoo $2.99
-$2.99 Free product coupon received in the mail
=FREE

Kraft Cheese $3.59
-$3.59 Free product coupon received in the mail
=FREE

Walgreens Trips - Week of April 17

2011-04-24T07:18:00.003-05:00

1st Transaction:
2 - Duracell Batteries @ 5.99 each
4 - Cottonelle Wipes @ 5.49 each
1 - Goody Hair Barrette @ 3.00

Coupons Used:
11.96 Walgreens coupons for Cottonelle (makes them 2.50 each)
1.50 Duracell
1.50 Duracell

Total After Coupons & Taxes: $23.85
Earned $3 Register Rewards for buying the batteries and $3 Register Rewards for buying the hair barrette.
2nd Transaction:
1 - Goody Hair Barrette @ 3.00

Coupons Used:
$3 Register Rewards earned by buying the batteries in transaction 1.

Total After Coupons & Taxes: $0.23
Earned $3 Register Rewards for buying the hair barrette.

3rd Transaction:
1 - Nasogel @ 4.99
2 - Candies @ 0.39 each

Coupons Used:
$1.50 Nasogel coupon found on the package
$3 Register Rewards earned by buying the hair barrette in transaction 1.

Total After Coupons & Taxes: $1.38
Earned $5 Register Rewards for buying the Nasogel.

I also bought some candy for stuffing Easter Eggs from Walgreens this week. I used my Register Rewards and paid very little. So, I now have no Register Rewards, but I got some good stuff this week.

CVS Trip - April 17

2011-04-24T07:11:00.003-05:00

Here is what I got:
2 - 24 pack bottled water @ 2.22 each
2 - Nivea Body Wash @ 3.88 each
1 - 18 pack Cottonelle Toilet Paper @ 8.99

Coupons Used:
$4 off $20 purchase CVS coupon
-3.00 off Nivea
-3.00 off Nivea
-0.50 off Cottonelle

Total after coupons and tax: $11.75
Earned $2 Extra Care Bucks

Walmart Question

2011-04-13T11:05:00.002-05:00

I recently had an issue with Walmart refusing to accept my coupon on a travel sized item. The coupon had no size restriction, so I decided to email customer service and ask what their policy was on accepting coupons on travel sized items.

Here is what I sent:

I would like to know if coupons can be used on travel sized items, if there is no size restriction on the coupon.I have been able to use my coupons in the past on the travel size items.

Today with I went to the store, I was told I could not use coupons on travel size items, even if they did not have a size restriction. The CSM looked at the coupon and said I could not because the picture was of the full size item. The items I was purchasing were priced at $0.97 and the coupons I had were for $1.00 off. I had a total of 6 items, so even if I was given the overage to apply to the rest of my order, it would have only been $0.36.

I do not want to misuse my coupons, but I was under the impression I could use the coupons in this way unless there was a specific size requirement. Please advise me on this situation.

Here is the reply I received:

Thank you for your message.

Dear Amy,

Thank you for your recent correspondence regarding the acceptance of coupons at Walmart. Our guidelines generally allow for the following types of coupons to be accepted:

- manufacturer coupons (Cents Off)
- free merchandise (or manufacturer's Buy-One-Get-One-Free) coupons
- store coupons
- internet coupons
- soft drink container caps

A salaried manager may refuse to accept a coupon if it does not meet certain criteria.

Coupon guidelines and limits include but are not limited to the following:

Walmart only accepts coupons for merchandise we sell and only when presented at the time of purchase. Coupons should have an expiration date and be presented within the valid dates. Walmart will not accept expired coupons or double/triple coupons. Internet coupons should be legible and say "Manufacturer Coupon_ and there should be a valid remit address for the manufacturer and scannable bar code. Store Coupons must reflect a specific sale price or original price and must be available to all customers. For 'Free' merchandise coupons, customers will not receive cash back -- the cashier will adjust the value of the coupon to the actual retail of the item at the time of sale. In addition, only one coupon per item is permitted and use of 40 or more coupons per transaction will require approval by a Customer Service Manager.

Sincerely,
Walmart Customer Care

So, I guess they are telling me a salaried manager can refuse any coupon. I don't feel like they really answered my question.

I am not sure why I continue to go to Walmart. I go there a lot less now than I used to, but with all the trouble they have given me with coupons, I think I can do without Walmart. I can do most of my shopping at Kroger, CVS, & Walgreens. If I can't get it there, Target is only an hour away and I can always check at Kmart.

Who I Am & Who I Want to Be

2011-04-11T09:58:00.003-05:00

I heard something the other day and I think it is so true:

You are constantly becoming the person you will ultimately be.

This really got me to thinking about my life and who I am now and who I want to be. I will have to admit, I do things now, that I wouldn't want to define me in the future. I see people around me and how selfish and uncaring people can be, but on the other hand, I see people who are loving and caring. I want to make sure I am taking steps in the right direction. So I decided to write who I feel like I am and who I would like to be.

Who I am:

I am a wife who doesn't have a very good relationship with her husband, who knows things could be better.

I am a mother who doesn't take the time she should for her children, who makes sure they are clean and fed, but, who knows there is a lot more to being a parent.

I am a Christian who doesn't read her Bible and pray as often as she should.

I am a woman who is overweight and finds it difficult to lose the weight.

I am a woman who has been depressed for several years, who is no longer taking any depression medicine, who is much better, but still has so far to go.

Who I want to be:

I want to be a wife who has a great marriage. I want to have a good physical relationship with my husband. I want to find things my husband and I enjoy doing together. I want to build a better relationship.

I want to be a homeschooling mother who has lots of time for her children. I want to make the most of each day with them. They will be grown up before I know it and I don't want to waste the time.

I want to be a Christian who reads and prays regularly. I would love to be more like my Grandma Wilson. She was so loving, caring and had such a sweet, gentle spirit. I want to be an encourager.

I want to be a woman who is no longer overweight, but a woman who has lost the weight and is in the best shape of her life. I want to learn and teach my family healthy ways to eat.

I want to be a good housekeeper. I want to learn to better organize our house and keep it clean.

I want to be a “finisher”. Often times, I am good at starting a project, but sometimes I find it difficult to finish the project. I get it to a point of stopping to a point of “good enough”. I don't want to settle for “good enough” I want to expect excellence.

There are many more things I would like to be, but these are a good start.

Intesesting Links

2011-03-28T15:46:00.006-05:00

Recipes

These recipes look yummy!

Pizza Casserole

Strawberry Muffins

Homemade Soft Pretzel Bites

Homemade Granola Bars

Homemade Dog Treats (I am sure my dog will love some of these)

Homeschooling Resources

These websites look neat. If I home school in the future, I think they will be valuable resources.

I Can Teach My Child

Sheppard Software

Recipes

2011-02-15T12:26:00.004-06:00

There are a couple of casseroles I made last week and thought I would share the recipes.

The first is for Corn Casserole. My sister-in-law gave me the recipe, but I also found it online HERE.

Ingredients:
-1 box Jiffy cornbread mix
-1 can corn, drained
-1 can cream style corn
-1 cup sour cream
-1 stick (1/2 cup) melted butter

Mix all ingredients. Pour into a greased 8x8 pan. Bake at 350 for 55-60 minutes.

The second one is for Hash Brown Casserole. You can find the recipe HERE.

Ingredients:
-1 can cream of chicken soup
-2 cups cheddar cheese
-1 stick (1/2 cup) melted butter
-1 bag (2 lb) frozen shredded hash browns
-salt, pepper, onion to taste

Combine all ingredient except the hash browns. Then gently fold the hash browns into the mixture and pour into a 9x13 greased pan. Bake at 350 for 45-60 minutes, until top is browned.

"Paper" Dolls for the Bathtub

2010-12-01T20:34:00.003-06:00

More Christmas gifts for the girls. This was a fun project. I made these dolls and the clothes from craft foam. I bought a big pack at Walmart. When you wet the foam, it will stick to the bathtub walls. I found this idea here. I got a little carried away making clothes for the dolls. Originally, I was only going to make one doll, but then decided that could cause problems. Of course, I will probably need to create something to keep these in, but that is for another day (when I find something good). Since they will get wet, I can't just keep then in a fabric envelope, I will have to find something better.

Monkeys (& Elephants) Jumping on the Bed

2010-12-01T20:18:00.004-06:00

I made another Christmas gift for the girls today. They love the "Monkeys Jumping on the Bed" song and book. I found a magnet board story here. The bed, each monkey and each elephant has a magnet on the back. They will be able to play with them on the refrigerator. The elephants are for "5 giant elephants jumping on the bed". Of course, I had to make something to keep the pieces in. I created another envelope like the one found here. This time I used the "heat and bond", it is much studier than yesterdays envelope.

Decorating the Christmas Tree

2010-11-30T13:31:00.004-06:00

I posted a while back about some homemade Christmas gifts I would like to make. I really haven't had a lot of time to work on any gifts. Here is the first thing I decided to make. We are decorating our Christmas tree at home and thought the girls would enjoy decorating this little tree over and over. I followed the pattern found here.

Then, I thought it would be nice to have something to store it in, so I made a fabric envelope. I used the tutorial found here, I just adapted it so I could work with the things I had.

Homemade Christmas Idea List

2010-11-04T18:32:00.005-05:00

There are many things I am thinking about for Christmas this year. Every year I decide I would like to make some of the gifts I give. I bookmark each site I find with a gift idea I like. It can be difficult wading through all the bookmarks. So, I decided this year, I would post an list on my blog, where I can look at all my ideas at anytime and from any computer.

Decorate the Christmas Tree - again & again

Homemade Doll Clothes
Doll Clothes made from Baby Clothes
Craft Foam Bath Toys
Foam Bath Dolls
Tote Bag
Potato Prints
Mini Car Mats
Magnet Board Stories
Matching Games
Fabric Gift Bag
Fabric Mail Box
Fabric Mail Box 2, Mail Bag
Fabric Stationary, Envelopes, Post Cards, More Post Cards, Stamps
Teacup Bird Feeder
Rice Warmers
Cozy Hand-Warming Ice Scraper
Photo Blocks
Homemade Lacing Cards
Homemade Sewing Cards
Baby Doll Bassinet & Accessories
Felt Bookmarks
Owl Tag Toy
Fabric Memory Game

Sew, Mama, Sew - new ideas each day
Domestic Cents - 50+ Homemade Christmas Gift Ideas
Sugar Bee - Idea List

I am sure there are more, and I do realize I will not get all these things finished before Christmas. This list is to inspire me and give me something to work on and not have to look for something.

Ham Recipe

2010-08-17T10:59:00.003-05:00

I recently bought a ham and cooked it in the crock pot by adding pineapple and brown sugar to season it.

We ate some of the leftovers, but still have some. I chopped it up and today I am making a Ham & Cheese Casserole. I tried to find the recipe online I use, but could not. I had to call my mom to ask how to make it again. This time I am recording the recipe on my blog until I can make my recipe book.

Ham & Cheese Casserole

2 cups chopped ham
2 cups velvetta cheese
2 cups cooked rice
2 cups Medium White Sauce**

After preparing the white sauce, combine all ingredients. Place in 9x13 pan. Cook at 350 for about 20 minutes.

I decided to prepare this casserole and freeze half before cooking. I will update you on how it turns out.

**I made a few changes to how the white sauce was prepared. Instead of adding all the milk at once, I added it a little at a time combining it a little along.

Chicken Recipe

2010-08-17T10:53:00.002-05:00

Thought I would share a few things I have tried recently.

Over the weekend I make Barbecue Chicken Packets. They were pretty good, but I am not sure if we like them well enough to have them again.

We had leftovers, I hated to waste them. I decided to make Chicken Fried Rice and use the rest of the barbecue chicken. The fried rice had a little bit of a barbecue taste, but overall was still good. I make my Chicken Fried Rice using a seasoning packet I buy at Kroger or Walmart. I put chicken, rice, scrambled eggs, peas & carrots in mine. The kids don't like it much, but they pick out what they like.

Target Clearance - Shoes

2010-07-30T12:28:00.003-05:00

I went to Target this morning and found some things on clearance. I got some great deals. The girls got some new shoes. From left to right they cost: $3.74 (originally $14.99), $3.24 (originally $12.99), and $4.24 (originally $16.99). So I spent $11.22 for $44.97 worth of shoes. The girls were very happy and so was I!

Recipe Book

2010-07-09T19:42:00.005-05:00

Ever since I saw this recipe photo book on Shutterfly, I have been wanting to make one. I have decided this year, I am going to make some of our family's favorite recipes, take pictures and make a photo book. I think it would be great to pass this on to my girls. I know I would love to have a recipe book like this passed on to me, especially if I was in some of the photos. I am working on a list of recipes I want to include.

Here are some of the recipes I am wanting to include:

Banana Bread
Chocolate Chip & Butterscotch Cookie Bar
Candied Yams
Cream Cheese Mints
Fruit Cobbler
Fruit Dip
Cherry Delight
Pink Salad
Hamburger Casserole
Homemade Granola Bars
Homemade Biscuits
Winter Coffee Mix
Four Cheese Lasagna
Crock Pot Beef (or Deer) Sandwiches
Champagne Salad
Chicken Parmesan
Chocolate Christmas Candies

I am sure there are many others, but this list is a start.

CVS Trip - 5/9/10

2010-05-09T11:59:00.003-05:00

1st Transaction:
2 Right Guard @ $2.49 each
2 Crest Pro Heath Toothpaste @ $3.50 each

Coupons Used:
2-$0.75 off Crest Pro Health - 5/2/10 newspaper
$3.00 off 2 Right Guard - Printable
$5.00 ECB (from last week)
$1.00 ECB

Total after coupons and tax: $2.30
Earned - $4.00 ECB & $7.00 ECB

2nd Transaction:
1 Carefree @ $1.00
1 Bayer @ $1.00
1 Apple Jacks @ $1.88
2 Corn Pops @ $1.88 each
2 Rice Krispies @ $1.88 each
1 Kotex U Tampons @ $4.99
1 Candy (as filler) @ $0.89

Coupons Used:
$1.00 off Carefree - 4/25/10 newspaper
$1.00 off Bayer - 3/21/10 newspaper
$1.00 off 3 Kelloggs Cereal - 4/11/10 newspaper
$1.00 off 2 Kelloggs Cereal - 4/11/10 newspaper
$1.00 off Kotex U - 4/18/10 newspaper or Printable*
$1.00 off Kotex U -CVS coupon - Printable*
$7.00 ECB from 1st Transaction
$4.00 ECB from 1st Transaction

Total after coupons and tax: $0.90
Earned - $4.99 ECB

SO...I started with $6 ECB and ended with $4.99 ECB. For everything in the pictures, I only paid $3.20 in cash and lost $1.01 ECB. I am happy with that.

*Since one of the Kotex U coupons is a Manufacture and one is a CVS coupon, you can use both for the same product.

CVS Trip - 5/2/10

2010-05-09T11:53:00.005-05:00

This was by far one of the best CVS trips I ever made. Sorry, I did not get around to posting last week.

Here's what I got:

4 Nivea for Women @ $4.88 each
1 Dawn @ $0.97

Total: $20.49

Coupons Used:

$4 off $20 purchase from email
4-$4.00 off Nivea from newspaper
$0.50 off Dawn

Total After Coupons: -$0.01 + $1.24 tax = $1.23

Plus I received $5.00 ECB for purchasing $15 of Nivea products.

CVS Coupons

2010-04-24T12:39:00.006-05:00

I am not sure if you regularly visit CVS or if you have seen the Price Checker/Coupons Center machine. Our CVS did not have one until late last year.

I scan my card each time I visit CVS. It prints coupons each day for to use in the store. The coupons vary each week. Many times the coupons will be for products that are on sale or will be on sale soon. Sometimes you will get $/$$ coupons (like $4 off a $20 purchase). Sometimes it is for CVS products. I think each day you scan your card, you will get 2 coupons that expire in 1 week. You can scan your card more than once each day until it says you have no more coupons for today.

A few weeks ago, one of the coupons was $1 off CVS hair care. Well, some CVS Shampoo is $0.99. Also recently, the coupons were $1 CVS paper product and $1 off CVS skin care product. I used the CVS paper product coupon on paper towel and got them for $0.29 and on 2 travel tissues and got them for free. The CVS skin care coupon, I mostly used on travel size lotion and got it for free. The week these great coupons printed, I made it a point to go in each day and scan my card.

I Heart CVS has a list of coupons that are printing each week.

So next time you are in CVS, look for this machine, scan your card and see what coupons you are given.

Phase 1 - Week 4

2010-04-24T12:33:00.002-05:00

WOO HOO! I made it the whole 4 weeks, without missing a day. There were days that I did not want to work out, but I pushed through it and complete the first phase. I am very proud of myself. I feel like I have developed a good habit. I will just have to be careful that I don't allow myself to undo what I have accomplished.

I even lost 3 pounds. I know that is not much, but I am now 3 pounds closer to my goal. I can sometimes lose 2-3 pounds quickly, but it seems to always come back. I feel like this 3 pounds I will never see again. I lost it only by walking an working out each day. I didn't change my eating habits (and I have some bad habits). I will work on some of my eating habits in the next phase.

Coming Soon...Phase 2

Phase 1 - Week 3

2010-04-24T12:32:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to give you a quick update. I made it through another week, walking for 5 days, 30 minutes each day.

Free Tote Bag from Red Gold

2010-04-14T10:12:00.003-05:00

There is a free tote bag offer from Red Gold. Go HERE and enter the UPC and product code from a can of Red Gold.

Thanks The Thrifty Mama!

Also if you do not have a can of Red Gold in your pantry, you can print a coupon for $1 off 3 cans HERE, or you can go HERE to find a UPC and product code.

Phase 1 - Week 2

2010-04-14T10:07:00.002-05:00

I have now completed 2 weeks in Phase 1 of my new lifestyle. I feel stronger and more disciplined. I exercised 30 minutes each day Monday through Friday. Most days I walked, but I did go to the YMCA for a class this week also. I have been getting up and walking at 6 or 6:30 each morning. I usually walk for 15 -20 minutes and then walk again in the evening. It works for me and I am getting in my 30 minutes each day.

Kmart Doubles - 4/8/10 Trip

2010-04-08T13:22:00.008-05:00

Today at Kmart, I got:

3 Quilted Northern @ $7.49 each
2 Mens Dial Body Wash @ $3.50 each
1 Soft Scrub Total @ $2.99

Total before coupons and tax: $32.46

Coupons Used:
(2) -$1.00 Quilted Northern - Target Printable *
(1) -$1.50/2 Mens Dial - Printable
(1) -$1.50 Soft Scrub Total - 3/7 newspaper
(1) -$2.00 on your next order from a previous transaction

$1 toilet paper coupons doubled to $2
$1.50 body wash coupon doubled to $3
$1.50 Soft Scrub coupon doubled to $2.99
$2 off order doubled to $4

Total after coupons and tax: $20.38

I received a $10 coupon off my next order for purchasing $30 of products from the "Spring into Savings Deal".

I am also going to submit my receipt for a $5 rebate from Georgia Pacific for buying $20 worth of products. You can see details HERE.

*The Quilted Northern coupon is found on the Target website and has the Target logo on it. It is a manufacture's coupon and I used it with no problems at Kmart.

Kmart Doubles - 4/6/10 Trip

2010-04-06T13:36:00.007-05:00

Today at Kmart, I got:

3 Gillette Body Wash @ $4.00 each
2 Mach3 Disposable Razors @ $6.00 each
1 Bounty Paper Towel Roll @ $2.39

Total before coupons and tax: $26.39

Coupons Used:
(3) -$2.00 Gillette Body Wash - 3/7 newspaper
(1) -$1.00 Bounty Paper Towels - Home Mailer
(1) -$2.00 Mach3 Razor - 3/7 newspaper
(1) -BOGO Mach3 Razor - 4/4 newspaper

$2 body wash coupons doubled to $4
$1 paper towel coupon doubled to $2
$2 razor coupon doubled to $4
BOGO did not double, but it took off $6

I did use 6 coupons, but I gave the 5 I wanted doubled first, then the BOGO.

Total after coupons and tax: $3.69

I am going to mail in for the $10 prepaid Mastercard Rebate when you buy $25 worth of Proctor & Gamble products. There is a chance they will not give it to me because my total is so low, but I think they will and it is worth a try.

Kmart Doubles - 4/5/10 Trip

2010-04-05T18:38:00.009-05:00

This week, Kmart is having double coupons. There are more rules, but I think it is still worth my time to go a few times. You are limited to 5 coupons per day and you must use your Rewards card. I figured I could just go several times this week. Today I went and got this:
5 Dove Deodorant @ $3.79 each

Total before coupons and tax: $18.95

Coupons Used:
(2) -$2.00 Dove Ultimate - printable
(2) -$1.25 Dove Deodorant - printable
(1) -$1.25 Dove Deodorant - 3/28 newspaper

$2 coupons doubled to $3.79
$1.25 coupons doubled to $2.50

Total after coupons and tax: $4.74
Plus I got a $5 coupon to use on my next order for buying $15 worth of Dove products.

Phase 1 - Week 1

2010-04-05T18:35:00.001-05:00

I completed week 1 in phase 1 of my new lifestyle. I exercised each day Monday-Friday. I walked for 30 minutes most of the days. I am proud that I completed the first week. I am now working on week 2. I am taking it slow, but I believe I am developing discipline and a healthy lifestyle.

Ready for Change

2010-03-24T18:57:00.004-05:00

Recently I listened to a Focus on the Family. A woman named Chantel Hobbs was a guest. She talked about a change in her life that occurred and how she lost 200 pounds. She was very inspiring. She has written a couple of books. I decided to look for one of her books at the library. I was able to check out "Never Say Diet: Make five decisions and break the fat habit for good". I am already on Chapter 8. It is a great and inspiring book.

She says diets don't work. You have to learn about nutrition and exercise. You can't depend on being on a diet the rest of your life, you must make a life change. She says you must first change your brain. To do that, you must: 1. Be Truthful, 2. Be Forgiving, 3. Be Committed, 4. Be Interested, and 5. Surrender.

I am ready for a change. I am ready to change my brain. During Phase 1, the goal is to establish a regular exercise habit. In the first 4 weeks, you commit to work out for 30 minutes a day 5 days a week. You should break a sweat with a cardiovascular exercise. She says if you miss a day, just start the 4 weeks over again, you must complete 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week for 4 weeks before moving on to Phase 2. One other thing, during Phase 1, you must eat breakfast. It fuels your body for the day.

I am going to continue to work out the rest of this week as I normally would and on Monday, I am going to start Phase 1! I will do my best to keep you updated on my progress.

If anyone else wants to join me during Phase 1, I would love to have you. We can hold one another accountable and be the best we can be.

Menu Plan Monday

2010-02-22T09:38:00.003-06:00

I finally made a menu for the week again. I thought I would share. Actually, this menu covers 2 weeks. I am going to try to shop and not have to visit the store for the things I need for supper each night.

Monday 2/22: Hamburger Casserole
Tuesday 2/23: Chicken Fried Rice
Wednesday 2/24: Bacon, Biscuits, & Gravy
Thursday 2/25: Chicken Packets, Peas, Mac & Cheese
Friday 2/26: Mini Meatloaves, Mashed Potatoes, Corn
Saturday 2/27: Pizza Pasta, Salad, Rolls
Sunday 2/28: Pork BBQ, Chips

Monday 3/1: Leftover BBQ
Tuesday 3/2: Spaghetti & Rolls
Wednesday 3/3: Turkey Ham, Mashed Potatoes, Mac & Cheese
Thursday 3/4: Chili
Friday 3/5: Roast, Potatoes, Carrots
Saturday 3/6: Ham, Beans, Cornbread
Sunday 3/7: Leftovers

I don't usually plan this far ahead, I just was motivated last night and thought I would take advantage of it.

This menu will probably change as the week goes on, but I will have everything I need to make each meal.

Hamburger Casserole

2010-01-13T12:54:00.005-06:00

I thought I would share another recipe I discovered recently. I have really enjoyed cooking in the crock pot the last several weeks and I am always on the lookout for a new recipe we might love. I finally found another one.

I found this recipe on Cooks.com. It is for Hamburger Casserole (Crock Pot). I have modified it a little to meet out needs.

Ingredients:
2-3 potatoes, peeled and sliced
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
1-2 cups frozen peas (or peas & carrots)
3 - 8oz cans tomato sauce
1 can water
1 lb hamburger (we use deer burger), browned

Directions:
Layer vegetables in crock pot in order given. Put hamburger on top of vegetables. Pour cans of tomato sauce and water on top of the hamburger. Cook on low 6-7 hours or high 3-4 hours. Stir before serving.

This tastes like vegetable soup with hamburger in it. It is delicious.

Homemade Granola Bars

2009-12-16T14:26:00.003-06:00

Our family eats a lot of granola bars. Ryan & the girls love them. I thought I would share a recipe we tried and Ryan really likes. The girls don't like them as much, but they don't like change or trying new things.

I found the recipe at All Recipes. I do things just a little different, but it is basically the same.

Ingredients:

4.5 cups oats (I used the old fashioned, not the quick)
1 cup all purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/3 cup brown sugar
2/3 cup butter (softened)
1/2 cup honey
1 tsp vanilla
2 cups semi-sweet mini chocolate chips

Directions:

Preheat oven to 325.
Cover a 9x13 pan with aluminum foil and spray lightly with cooking spray.
Mix together oats, flour, baking soda, and brown sugar in a large bowl.
In a separate smaller bowl mix together butter, honey and vanilla.
Pour liquids into the oat mixture. Mix well.
Add chocolate chip and mix.
Spread into prepared pan and bake for 18-22 minutes.
Allow to cool for 10-20 minutes.
Cut apart and wrap in plastic wrap or put in container.

I use the aluminum foil to make it easier to get the granola out to the 9x13 pan. I also wrap the individual bars in plastic wrap. They stay good for at least a week. We usually don't have any left after that.

Kmart Trip 9/27/09

2009-09-27T18:44:00.003-05:00

Our Kmart IS doubling coupons with a face value up to $2. I made a trip this evening.

I got everything in the picture. It should have cost me $32.16 plus tax. I paid $2.68 plus $1.12 tax.

I had a coupon for everything in the picture.

Kmart Doubles

2009-09-21T06:40:00.001-05:00

I just heard that Kmart will be doing double coupons again the week of September 27th. I wanted to let you know so you can start getting your coupons ready.

I will post some of the deals later in the week.

WalMart Deals

2009-09-14T14:10:00.003-05:00

I haven't posted as many deals recently, so I wanted to link to a few Walmart deals.

Check out these pages:

Remember, sometimes the price varies from store to store. You may or may not be able to find all these deals.

Good Luck!

Kmart Doubles 8/30/09

2009-08-30T21:44:00.004-05:00

I have heard that this may be the last of the Kmart Super Double Coupons for 2009. I really hope not. I have really enjoyed going to Kmart and using my coupons. But, I thought if this may be the last time, I really want to make the best of it. I made several trips today (I only live a couple of miles away from Kmart). The two transactions I am posting are my best ones ever.

1 - Ponds @ 2.50
1 - Die Hard Battery @ 3.79
2 - Visine @ 3.99 each
1 - Scrubbing Bubbles Gel @ 3.50
2 - Chinet Plates @ 3.55 each
2 - Scott Paper Towels @ 1.99 each
1 - Playtex Gloves @ 1.97
2 - Easy Mac @ 1.09 each

Total Before Coupons: $33.00 before tax

Coupons Used:
1-$3.79 Free DieHard Battery (printable)
1-$1.50 Ponds (printable)
2-$2.00 Visine (8/2 newspaper)
1-$2.00 Scrubbing Bubbles (printable)
2-$2.00 Chinet Plates (8/9 newspaper)
2-$1.00 Scott (printable)
1-$1.00 Playtex Gloves (6/8 newspaper)
1-BOGO Mac & Cheese (printable - no longer available)

Total After Coupons: $0.00 + $0.96 tax = $0.96

4 - Visine @ 3.99 each
2 - Beneful Dog Food @ 1.69 each
2 - Zip Lock Bags @ 2.00 each
4 - Glade Candle @ 3.49 each

Total Before Coupons: $37.30 before tax

Coupons Used:
$3 off a $20 purchase (printed at cash register during last doubles)
4-$2.00 Visine (8/2 newspaper)
1-BOGO Beneful Dog Food (from magazine at Kmart)
1-$1.50/2 Zip Lock Bags (printable)
4-$1.50 Glade Candles (from inside the tin)

Total After Coupons: -$0.04 + $0.79 tax = $0.75

Vocal Point

2009-08-28T12:09:00.002-05:00

I have been meaning to tell everyone about a program called Vocal Point. I wanted to sign up and see how it worked before I told everyone about it.

It is a great program. I regularly get free things and great coupons. I recently got one of the new Bounce Dryer Bars to try for free. They asked me to review it. It was super easy. You do not have to review items, but I try to review things occasionally. Today I got a sample of Kashi Cereal, a coupon for a free box, and several coupons for $1.50 off a box of cereal.

Sign up today to become a member. It may take a little while to receive your first surprise in the mail.

Go to vocalpoint.com.

Kmart - 2nd Trip 8/16/09

2009-08-19T00:11:00.002-05:00

Here is what I got on my 2nd trip of the week:

2-Ziploc Bags @ $2.00 each
4-Glade Plug In @ $1.95 each
4-Glade Candle Tin @ $3.49
1-Ajax @ $1.99
1-M&M @ $1.25 (not shown - needed to keep the kids happy)

Coupons Used:
$3.00 off a $20.00 purchase (printed with my receipt)
$1.50 off 2 Ziploc Bags (printable)
$1.00 off Glade Plug In (from inside previous package)
$1.50 off Glade Candle Tins (from inside previous tin)
$1.00 off Ajax (printable-use zip 85712)

Total Before Coupons: $29.00
Total After Coupons: $1.21 + $0.99 tax = $2.20

You can find a list of some of the great deals in the following blogs:

Kmart - 1st Trip 8/16/09

2009-08-18T23:37:00.003-05:00

I have been so excited about the Kmart double coupons. I went on Sunday. Here is what I got:

3-Axe Body Wash @ $4.29 each
1-AA Batteries @ $6.00
3-Purex 3-in-1 @ $5.50 each
2-Toilet Gel Cleaners @ $3.50 each
2-Fresh Brush Toilet Cleaner @ $4.50 each

Coupons Used:
$5 off a $50 purchase (printable)
3-$1.50 off Axe (printable)
3-$1.50 off Purex (from tearpad)
2-$2.00 off Gel Cleaner (printable)
2-FREE Fresh Brush when you buy Gel Cleaner (from 8/2 SS)

Total Before Coupons: $51.37
Total After Coupons: $12.37 + $2.66 tax = $15.03

I received a $5 coupon off my next order of $5 or more for buying the Purex. I should have received a voucher for a free movie ticket for buying 3 Axe products.

I waited around while they tried to figure out why it did not print. They returned everything and rerung the order. It still did not print. There was a sign. They finally took my name and number and I was told they would call when they figure it out. It is Tuesday and I still haven't heard from them. I went back to the store today and all the signs are gone. I am not sure if I will get my free movie voucher or not.

You can find a list of some of the great deals in the following blogs:

Walgreens Trip - 8/11/09

2009-08-11T16:16:00.002-05:00

I made a trip to Walgreens this morning. Here is my first transaction.

1 - Colgate Toothpaste @ $2.99
1 - Glue Stick (not pictured) @ $0.99

Total: $3.98

Coupons Used:
$1.00 off Colgate
$2.00 in Register Rewards (from another day)

Total after coupons: $0.98 + $0.10 tax = $1.08
I also earned a $3.00 Register Reward
In my second transaction I got:

2-Reach Toothbrushes $3.00 each
1-Listerine @ $3.00
4-Bic Pens @ $0.50 each
1-Huggies Wipes @ $2.79

Total: $13.79

Coupons Used:
1-$3.00 off 3 Listerine & Reach (from newspaper)
2-$1.00 off 2 Bic pens (from last week's newspaper)
1-$2.00 off Huggies Wipes (found in booklet at Walgreens)
$3.00 in Register Rewards (from 1st transaction)
$3.00 in Register Rewards (from another day)

Total after coupons: $0.79 + $0.84 tax = $1.63

CVS Trip - 8/11/09

2009-08-11T15:57:00.003-05:00

I made a quick trip to CVS this morning. Here is what I got:

2 - Huggies Diapers @ $9.00 each
1 - Deodorant @ $4.49
1 - CVS Aspirin @ $1.99
1 - St. Ives Scrub @ $1.49

TOTAL: $25.97 plus tax

Coupons Used:
1 - $5.00 off a $25.00 purchase
2 - $3.00 off Huggies
1 - $1.99 Free CVS Aspirin
1 - $1.00 off any St. Ives Product
$4.00 in Extra Care Bucks

TOTAL After Coupons: $7.98 + $1.33 tax = $9.31

I also earned $4 in Extra Care Bucks to use next time.

CVS Coupon

2009-08-09T23:34:00.003-05:00

CVS has a coupon available on their website. You can get a coupon for $5 off a $25 purchase for taking a quiz testing your health IQ. It doesn't matter if you answer correctly or not. They are advertising for their ReadyFill for prescriptions. You can print the coupon at the end of the quiz. Go HERE to take the quiz and get your coupon.

K-Mart Trip - 7/11/09 - Trip 3

2009-07-13T07:45:00.003-05:00

Tenth trip of the week:
1-20 oz Water Bottle @ 3.49
2-Softsoap Hand Soap @ 1.50 each
2-Dry Idea Deodorant @ 3.29 each
2-Visine @ 3.99 each
4-GM Cereal @ 2.50 each
1-Kelloggs Cereal @ 3.79

Total Before Coupons: $34.84

Coupons Used:
2-$1.00 off Softsoap (printable-no longer available)
1-$1.00 off Rubbermaid (from recent newspaper)
1-$1.50 off 3 GM Cereal (found at Kmart)
1-$0.55 off Cheerios (printable)
1-$1.00 off Kelloggs Cereal (from recent newspaper)
2-$2.00 off Dry Idea (printable-no longer available)
2-$2.00 off Visine (printable-not sure where)

I got $4.00 off by buying 4 GM Cereals.

I used the $3.00 coupon I earned from THIS TRIP.

Total After Coupons: $2.18 + $0.66 tax = $2.84

K-Mart Trip - 7/11/09 - Trip 2

2009-07-13T07:35:00.003-05:00

Ninth trip of the week:
2-Soft Soap Body Wash @ 3.99 each
2-Pantene Shampoo @ 3.34 each
2-Pantene Shampoo @ 3.33 each
1-Sparkle Paper Towels @ 2.99
1-Angel Soft Toilet Paper @ 1.45
3-Pampers Diapers @ 9.99 each

Total Before Coupons: $55.73

Coupons Used:
2-$2.00 off Soft Soap Body Wash (printable-no longer available)
1-$2.00 off when you buy both Sparkle & Angel Soft (printable)
3-$2.00 off Pampers Diapers (from 7/5 newspaper)
2-$2.00 off Pantene (from 7/5 newspaper)
2-$1.00 off Pantene (from newspaper)

I used the $14.00 coupon I earned from THIS TRIP.

Total After Coupons: $7.08 + $1.94 tax = $9.02

I earned a $10.00 off $10.00 or more valid 7/15/09 - 7/31/09.

K-Mart Trip - 7/11/09 - Trip 1

2009-07-13T07:22:00.002-05:00

Eighth trip of the week:
1-Ponds Towelette @ 6.65
1-Huggies Wash Cloths @ 3.34
2-Huggies Lotion @ 3.33 each
1-Degree Deodorant @ 2.33
1-Dove Deodorant @ 2.34
1-All Laundry Detergent @ 4.79
2-Huggies Diapers @ 9.99 each
2-Ragu Sauce @ 1.99 each

Total Before Coupons: $50.07

Coupons Used:
1-$1.50 off Ponds (printable)
3-$1.00 off Huggies Bath & Body (from 4/19 newspaper)
1-$0.75 off Degree (from 6/21 newspaper)
1-$1.00 off Degree (from 6/17 newspaper)
1-$1.00 off All Detergent (from recent newspaper)
1-$2.00 off Huggies Diapers (printable)
1-$1.50 off Huggies Diapers (from 6/21 newspaper)
1-$1.00 off 2 Ragu (printable - not sure where)

I also used a $14.00 coupon I earned on THIS TRIP.

Total After Coupons: $12.57 + $1.65 tax = $14.22

I also earned a $14.00 coupon off my next order of $14.00 or more.

K-Mart Trip - 7/10/09

2009-07-13T07:00:00.003-05:00

Seventh trip of the week:
1-Ponds Towelette @ 5.89
1-Huggies Wash Cloths @ 3.34
2-Huggies Wipes @ 1.99 each
4-All Laundry Detergent @ 4.79 each
1-Huggies Diapers @ 9.99
1-Scott Paper Towels @ 8.75

Total Before Coupons: $51.11

Coupons Used:
1-$1.50 off Ponds (printable)
1-$2.00 off Scott (printable-no longer available)
3-$1.00 off Huggies Bath & Body (from 4/19 newspaper)
4-$1.00 off All Detergent (from recent newspaper)
1-$2.00 off Huggies Diapers (printable)
(*the cashier did not apply all my coupons to the correct product, so they did not all double correctly)

I also used a $14.00 coupon I earned on THIS TRIP.

Total After Coupons: $12.79 + $1.96 tax = $14.75

I also earned a $14.00 coupon off my next order of $14.00 or more.

K-Mart Trip - 7/9/09 Trip 2

2009-07-10T09:49:00.002-05:00

Sixth trip of the week:
My mother-in-law went with me to Kmart. She did this transaction for me.

1-Pampers Diapers @ 9.99
1-Pampers Extra Protection @ 10.99
2-Pantene Shampoo @ 3.34 each
2-Pantene Shampoo @ 3.33 each
1-Pantene Styling Serum @ 6.49
1-Pantene Styling Balm @ 5.39
1-Sparkle Paper Towels @ 2.99
1-Angel Soft Toilet Paper @ 1.45
1-Cascade Rinse @ 3.89

Total Before Coupons: $54.53

Coupons Used:
2-$2.00 off Pampers Diapers (from 7/5 newspaper)
4-$2.00 off Pantene (from 7/5 newspaper)
2-FREE Pantene Styler wyb Shampoo(from 7/5 newspaper)
1-$2.00 off when you buy both Sparkle & Angel Soft (printable)
1-FREE Cascade Rinse

I used a $5.00 off a $50.00 purchase printable HERE.

Total After Coupons: $8.42 + $2.96 tax = $11.38

I earned a $10.00 off $10.00 or more valid 7/15/09 - 7/31/09.

K-Mart Trip - 7/9/09

2009-07-10T07:39:00.002-05:00

Fifth trip of the week:
2-Huggies Diapers @ 9.99 each
3-Huggies Wipes @ 1.99 each
1-Cottonelle Toilet Paper @ 7.00
2-Skintimate Shave Gel @ 1.99 each
1-Scott Paper Towels @ 8.75
1-Ponds Towelettes @ 5.89

Total Before Coupons: $51.57

Coupons Used:
2-$1.50 off Huggies Diapers (from 6/21 newspaper)
3-$1.00 off Huggies Bath & Body (from 4/19 newspaper)
1-$1.00 off Cottonelle (from sample)
2-$1.00 off Skintimate (printable - no longer available)
1-$2.00 off Scott Paper Towels (printable - no longer available)
1-$1.50 off Ponds (printable - coupons.com)

I also used the $14 coupons I earned on THIS TRIP.

Total After Coupons: $13.62 + $1.95 tax = $14.57

I earned a $14.00 coupon off my next order of $14.00 or more.

K-Mart Trip - 7/8/09

2009-07-09T23:42:00.002-05:00

Fourth trip of the week:
1-Degree Deodorant @ 2.34
1-Dove Deodorant @ 2.33 each
4-Huggies Wipes @ 1.99
4-All Laundry Detergent @ 4.79 each

Total Before Coupons: $31.79

Coupons Used:
1-$1.25 off Degree (from 6/21 newspaper)
1-$1.25 off Dove (from 6/17 newspaper)
4-$1.00 off Huggies Bath & Body (from 4/19 newspaper)
4-$1.00 off All Detergent (from recent newspaper)

I also planned to buy 2 packages of Huggies diapers. I had 2 $3.00 coupon that I knew would not double. The cashier would not let me use all my coupons because the limit is only 10. I thought they would only double 10. So this trip did not turn out like I planned.

Total After Coupons: $11.16 + $1.68 tax = $12.84

I also earned a $3.00 coupon off my next order of $3.00 or more.

K-Mart Trip - 7/7/09

2009-07-07T21:37:00.003-05:00

Third trip of the week:
2-Axe Shampoo @ 4.89 each
1-Axe Shower Gel @ 4.29
1-Cottonelle Toilet Paper @ 7.00
2-Dove Deodorant @ 3.99 each
1-Huggies Overnight Diapers @ 9.99
3-All Laundry Detergent @ 4.79 each

Total Before Coupons: $53.41

Coupons Used:
2-$2.00 off Axe Shampoo (printable - no longer available)
1-$1.50 off Axe Shower Gel (from newspaper-not sure which one)
1-$1.00 off Cottonelle (from home mailer)
2-$2.00 off Dove Deodorant (printable)
1-$2.00 off Huggies Overnight Diapers (from 6/21newspaper)
3-$1.00 off All Detergent (from recent newspaper)

I also used a $10.00 off a $50.00 purchase I received by signing up for a Sears MasterCard.

Somehow I ended up getting an extra $1.00 off.

Total After Coupons: $11.43 + $2.16 tax = $13.59

I also earned a $14.00 coupon off my next order of $14.00 or more.

K-Mart Trip - 7/6/09

2009-07-06T23:05:00.002-05:00

Second trip of the week:
4-Kraft Mac & Cheese @ 1.00 each
1-Starbucks Frappuccino Coffee Drink @ 2.00
3-Huggies Wipes @ 1.99 each
1-Sparkle Paper Towels @ 2.99
1-Angel Soft Toilet Paper @ 1.45
1-Kotex Liners @ 1.29
1-Pert for Men @ 3.49
1-Reach Floss @ 1.49
1-Renuzit @ 1.89
1-Neutrogena Cream @ 7.29

Total Before Coupons: $31.86

Coupons Used:
1-Buy 3, Get 1 Free Kraft Mac & Cheese (not sure where this is from)
1-$1.00 off Starbucks (from 6/21 newspaper)
3-$1.00 off Huggies Bath & Body (from 4/19 newspaper)
1-$2.00 off when you buy both Sparkle & Angel Soft (printable)
1-$0.75 off Kotex Liners (from 6/14 newspaper)
1-$1.50 off Pert for Men (from 6/28 newspaper)
1-$1.00 off Reach Floss (from 6/14 newspaper)
1-$0.75 off Renuzit (from 5/17 newspaper)

I also used the $7.00 coupon I earned on my 7/5/09 trip.

Total After Coupons: $3.61 + $0.54 tax = $4.15

I also earned a $1.00 coupon off my next order for buying the Kraft Mac & Cheese. It states:
Buy 4, Get $1.00
Buy 5, Get $1.50
Buy 6 or more, Get $2.00

I am not certain, but I think this coupon will double. I will try it and let you know.

K-Mart Trip - 7/5/09

2009-07-06T22:37:00.002-05:00

Kmart has double coupons again this week. A new rule for using the coupons is that your total must be at least $25 before coupons. There is also a 10 coupon limit. There a lot of good deals to get this week. Also, there are a couple of promotions going on.

Unilever/Kimberly-Clark/SCJohnson (read more about it at Coupon Clippin' Mama)

Spend $20.00, get a coupon for $3
Spend $35.00, get a coupon for $7
Spend $50.00, get a coupon for $14

Proctor & Gamble (read more about it at Coupon Clippin' Mama)

Spend $25, get a coupon for $5
Spend $40, get a coupon for $10

On my first trip this week, here is what I got:
2-Cottonelle Toilet Paper 12 pack @ 7.00 each
4-Huggies Wipes @ 1.99 each
2-Cottonelle Flushable Wipes @ 2.99 each
2-All Detergent @ 4.79

Total Before Coupons: $37.52

Coupons Used:
2-$1.00 off Cottonelle Toilet Paper (from a sample)
4-$1.00 off Huggies Bath & Body (from 4/19 newspaper)
2-$1.00 off Cottonelle Flushable Wipes (from Kmart)
2-$1.00 off All (from recent newspaper)

Total After Coupons: $17.56 + $2.14 tax = $19.70

I also received a coupon for $7.00 off my next order.

Here are some of the places I found coupon match-ups:

CVS Trip - 6/29/09

2009-06-30T13:30:00.003-05:00

Transaction # 1

6 - Chapstick @ $0.29 each
3 - Pots @ $1.25 each
1 - Gloves @ $0.99
1 - Water Hose Nozzle @ $1.25
1 - Aquafresh Toothpaste @ $0.99

I used a $2.00 coupon for the toothpaste that was printed at CVS during a previous visit.

I used $2.49 in ECBs.

Total: $4.56

Transaction # 2

1 - Pot @ $1.25
1 - Aquafresh Toothpaste @ $0.99

I used a $2.00 coupon for the toothpaste that was printed during a previous purchase.

Total: $0.26

Everything I bought was on clearance except the toothpaste. I like to see what is on clearance, sometimes there are some pretty good deals. I recently found cans of Similac Formula for $6.00. My niece uses that brand of formula. These cans are usually over $20.00 each. So you should always check around the store for clearance. You never know what you might find.

Target Trip - 6/27/09

2009-06-27T18:27:00.003-05:00

I made a trip to Target today. I really like Target, even if using coupons is sometimes frustrating. Today the coupons went pretty good. I did not take a picture of everything I got, but I got a pretty good deal.

One exceptional deal I got was on Cottonelle Flushable Moist Wipes, the trial size (10 wipes). These are priced at $0.99 each. I ordered coupons from Ebay for $1.00 off Cottonelle Wipes or Toilet Paper. It was a Target coupon that was in the newspaper in some regions. I bought 20 coupons for $4.05 including shipping and then I ordered 20 more for $3.20 including shipping. I used 20 coupons today and got 20 packages of the trial sized Cottonelle Flushable Wipes for free. The coupons automatically adjusted to $0.99. So I got them for FREE!

But, it gets better. I can submit my receipt to The Caregivers Marketplace and receive $0.25 for each package. So I should get $5.00 back.

Net cost (not including tax): $4.05 - $5.00 = I make $0.95 on the first 20 coupons I ordered and then I will make $1.80 on the second 20 coupons.

Menu Plan Monday

2009-06-21T23:18:00.003-05:00

To try to be healthier and stick to my new eating plan, I am making my menu for all to see. I have already lost 4 pounds (in 3 days) after completing the cleanse. I am starting this week with the regular food I will be eating.

I am also participating in Menu Plan Monday at I'm an Organizing Junkie.

Breakfast:
Eggs, Fruit, Toast
Oatmeal, Eggs, Fruit
French Toast, Strawberries

Lunch:
Salad with Chicken
Salad with Eggs
Salad with leftovers from night before
Cottage Cheese

Snacks:
Peaches
Plums
Watermelon
Apples
Grapes
Strawberries
Low Fat Ice Cream bar

Supper:
Monday-Grilled Turkey Cutlets, Green Beans
Tuesday-Chicken, Pasta, Salad
Wednesday-T Bone Steak, Green Beans, Baked Potato
Thursday-Breaded Fish, Zucchini (on the grill)
Friday-Pork Chops or Pork Steak, Fresh Vegetables
Saturday-Grilled Chicken, Rice
Sunday-On Your Own

CVS Deals - Week of 6/21

2009-06-21T22:58:00.002-05:00

Soy Joy Bars $1, Earn $4 ECB when you buy 4
- $2/10 in 5/31 SS
- B1G1 in 5/31 SS
- $1/5 printable HERE
= FREE + overage after coupons & ECBs (Limit 5)

Thermacare Wrap (1 count) $2.49, Earn $2.49 ECB
- $1.00 RP 3/29 or 4/19
- $1.00 printable HERE
= FREE + overage after coupon & ECBs (Limit 2)

Tylenol (20-24 count) $4.99, Earn $2 ECB
- $2/1 RP 5/17
= $0.99 after coupon and ECBs (Limit 3)

Revlon Eye or Lip Color - BOGO (use 2 coupons)
- $1.00 SS 5/17
= Price Varies

Nature's Bounty - BOGO (use 2 coupons)
- $2.00 RP 4/26
= Price Varies

Almay Pure Blends Foundation or Face Powder $13.99, Earn $10 ECB
- $1.00 SS 5/17 or April 09 Shape or Glamour Magazine
= $2.99 after coupon and ECBs

Walgreens Deals - Week of 6/21

2009-06-21T22:44:00.002-05:00

Here are a few things I plan to look for and/or get this week at Walgreens.

Splenda $2.99

- $3/2 April All You Magazine

= $2.98 for 2 after coupon

Aquafresh Toothpaste $3, Earn $3 RR

- $1/1 Printable HERE or $0.75 from 6/21 SS

= FREE + up to $1 in overage after coupon & RR

Planters Trail Mix 2/$3, Earn $1 RR when you buy 2

= $2 for 2 after RR

Vitamin Shampoo or Organix Shampoo are BOGO free at $6.99

Both have mail in rebates (there is a hang tag around the neck of the bottle)

= FREE for 2 after sale and Rebate

*NOTE* I did not see any rebate tags at my Walgreens, but I found them at another store, so you might look around.

Get Cash Back for Shopping Online

2009-06-18T19:29:00.004-05:00

I am not sure if you have heard of ebates before, but it is a website that you can get online rebates and coupons. There are some pretty good deals you can find. You get back a certain percentage of your purchases you make online.

Right now, you get a $5.00 bonus for signing on. You do have to make a purchase in order to receive this bonus.

Some of the cash back amounts are:

Target 4%
Wal-Mart 1%
The Children's Place 3%
Ebay 3%
Gap 1%
Old Navy 1%
JCPenny 4%

There are many, many stores from which to choose. You should check it out and sign on to get your bonus.

Go HERE to sign up.

K-Mart Trips - Week of 6/7/09

2009-06-16T06:44:00.004-05:00

I posted about several trips to Kmart last week. I decided I wanted to compile a list of everything I got and my final costs. I think I went almost every day and on Saturday I did a couple transactions.

1-Snack Cup @ $3.29
8-Huggies Diapers @ $9.99 = $79.82
5-Huggies Wipes @ $1.99 = $9.95
3-Huggies Wipes @ $2.99 = $8.97
2-Wet Ones @ $2.29 = $4.58

11-Edge Shaving Gel @ $1.99 = $21.89
2-Skintimate Shaving Gel @ $1.99 = $3.98
4-Axe Shampoo @ $4.89 = $19.56
1-Old Spice Body Wash @ $4.00
2-Suave Body Wash @ $2.00 = $4.00
2-Clean & Clear @ $4.49 = $8.98
3-Visine @ $3.99 = $11.97
2-Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen @ $5.00 = $10.00
2-Max Factor Eye Shadow @ $3.84 = $7.68
2-Dove Deodorant @ $3.99 = $7.98

4-Cottonelle 12 Pack Toilet Paper @ $7.00 = $28.00
1-Oust Air Freshner @ $3.29
1-Chinet Plate @ $3.29
1-Chinet Plate @ $2.50
1-Playtex Rubber Gloves @ $1.69
2-Wisk @ $4.00 = $8.00
3-All Small & Mighty @ $4.79 = $14.37

2-Coffeemate Creamer @ $1.69 = $3.38
2-Mac & Cheese Cups @ $1.09 = $2.18
1-Juicy Juice @ $2.99
2-12 Pack Coke @ $4.00 = $8.00
1-20oz Sprite @ $1.39
1-M&M Mini's @ $1.25

Okay, now to add everything up.

$286.98 without tax

$77.87 including tax, but I paid with a $5.00 Kmart gift card I earned from buying the cereal last month and a $25.00 gift card I won on the Huggies Enjoy the Ride website.

$47.87 plus I will submit my receipts to the Caregivers Marketplace to get a $0.75 rebate for each pack of diapers. So I will get $6.00 back.

$41.87 is my final cost of everything. At first it seems high, but then I got a lot of stuff. I got 8 packs of diapers, 4 packs of toilet paper and 5 bottles of laundry detergent.

Free Chocolate

2009-06-12T08:26:00.002-05:00

You can register HERE and receive a coupon for a free candy bar. You have to register before all the coupons are gone. You will receive a coupon in the mail if you register in time.

Old Navy Weekly

2009-06-11T20:19:00.004-05:00

UPDATE: The site refreshed this morning about 2:15 am. The big coupons are gone, but you still can get some of the other coupons.
The Thrifty Mama thinks the Old Navy Weekly site will refresh either tonight or tomorrow. Check out her post HERE.

I am not sure when it will happen, just keep looking at OldNavyWeekly.com.

Kmart Doubles with Printable Coupons

2009-06-11T14:33:00.006-05:00

There are several free items you can get without having coupon inserts from the newspaper. You should be able to print each coupon 2 times by hitting the back button after the first coupon prints. Also, Kmart is only allowing you to use 10 coupons per person per day.

Here are some things you can get FREE:

Aveeno Body Lotion (2.5 oz) $3.15
-$2 Printable doubles to $3.15
= FREE

Dry Idea Deodorant $3.99 (this was $4.99 at my Kmart)
-$2 Printable doubles to $3.99
= FREE ($0.99)

Visine A (0.5 oz) $3.99
-$2 Printable doubles to $3.99
= FREE

Bayer Quick Release Crystals $2.99 (this was $3.99 at my Kmart)
-$1.50 Printable doubles to $2.99
= FREE ($0.99)

Good Life Cat Treats $2.00
-$1 Printable doubles to $2.00
= FREE

Edge Shaving Gel $1.99
-$1 Printable doubles to $1.99
= FREE

Here are a few good deals I see:

Axe Shampoo $4.99
-$2 Printable doubles to $4.00
= $0.99

Hawaiian Tropic $5.00
-$2 Printable doubles to $4.00
= $1.00

Wisk $4.00
-$1 Printable doubles to $2.00
= $2.00

K-Mart Trip - 6/10/09

2009-06-10T20:27:00.003-05:00

Here is what I got at Kmart on Wednesday:

2-Hawaiian Tropic Sun Care @ $5.00 each
2-Max Factor Eye Shadow @ $3.84 each
1-Visine @ $3.99
1-Chinet Plate @ $3.29
1-Chinet Plate @ $2.50
2-Wet Ones @ $2.29 each
1-Playtex Gloves @ $1.69

Total Before Coupons: $33.73

Coupons Used:
2-Hawaiian Tropic $2.00 (from sample) doubled to $4.00 each
2-Max Factor $2.00 (5/10/09 newspaper) doubled to $3.84 each
1-Visine $2.00 (4/26/09 newspaper) doubled to $3.99
1-Chinet Plate $2.00 (5/3/09 newspaper) doubled to $3.29
1-Chinet Plate $2.00 (5/3/09 newspaper) doubled to $2.50
2-Wet Ones $1.00 (5/17/09 newspaper) doubled to $2.00 each
1-Playtex Glove $1.00 (5/3/09 newspaper) doubled to $1.69 each

So, $33.73 - $31.15 = $2.58 + tax ($1.38) = $3.96

You can find some great coupon match ups for Kmart this week at My Frugal Adventures and Common Sense with Money.

K-Mart Trip - 6/9/09

2009-06-10T19:58:00.003-05:00

I made another trip to Kmart Tuesday. Here is what I got:

3-Cottonelle Toilet Paper @ $7.00 each
2-Huggies Diapers @ $9.99 each
4-Edge Shave Gel @ $1.99 each
1-Huggies Wipes @ $1.99

Total Before Coupons: $50.93

Coupons Used:
$5 off a $50 purchase
3-Cottonelle $1.00 (from sample) doubled to $2.00 each
1-Huggies $1.50 (5/17/09 newspaper) doubled to $3.00
1-Huggies $3.00 (5/17/09 newspaper) did not double
4-Edge Shave Gel $1.00 doubled to $1.99 each
1-Huggies $1.00 (4/19/09 newspaper) doubled to $1.99 each

So, $50.93 - $26.95 = $23.98 + tax ($2.83) = $26.81

I planned to use the $14 coupon I got from my purchase on Sunday, but was told since I used the $5 off a $50 purchase, I could not use it. I was a little disappointed, but I will just use the coupon on another purchase this week.

I received a $14 coupon off my next purchase (for buying $50 worth of Kimberly Clark products).

You can find some great coupon match ups for Kmart this week at My Frugal Adventures and Common Sense with Money.

Walgreens Coupon

2009-06-09T22:35:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to let you know there is a new Walgreens coupon for $5 off a $25 purchase. It is good Wednesday, June 10 and Thursday, June 11. Go HERE to print your coupon.

Old Navy Weekly Coupons

2009-06-09T22:17:00.002-05:00

This week at Old Navy Weekly, I found a coupon for $50 off a purchase of $100 or more. Every week, Old Navy updates this site and hides more coupons. In the past, there has been $75 off a purchase of $100 or more. It is fun to look for the coupons.

There are no high value coupons left this week, but you can still find some of the other coupons. There are still $20 off a $100 purchase, $15 off a $75 purchase, and $5 off a $50 purchase.

I like to check The Thrifty Mama for updates. You can check out last week's post HERE.

I am not sure when they are going to reload the coupons, but if I find out, I will let you know.

K-Mart Trip 6/7/09

2009-06-09T18:34:00.004-05:00

Here is what I got:
4-Axe Shampoo @ $4.89 each
3-Huggies Wipes @ $2.99 each
2-Huggies Diapers @ $9.99 each
1-Oust @ $3.29

Total Before Coupons: $51.80

Coupons Used:
$5 off a $50 purchase
4-Axe $2.00 doubled to $4.00 each
3-Huggies $1.00 (4/19/09 newspaper) doubled to $2.00 each
2-Huggies $2.00 (no longer available) doubled to $4.00 each
1-Oust $2.00 (5/10/09 newspaper) doubled to $3.29

So, $51.80 - $38.29 = $13.51 + tax ($2.36) = $15.87

I received a $14 coupon off my next purchase (for buying $50 worth of Kimberly Clark products) and a coupon for a free movie ticket from Axe (no longer available).

You can find some great coupon match ups for Kmart this week at My Frugal Adventures and Common Sense with Money.

Honey Nut Cheerios Sweet Rewards Giveaway

2009-06-03T17:54:00.003-05:00

This looks like a pretty good giveaway. You can try to win $5 up to 10 times each day. You can only win once per day, but you can win 10 days. So you could win up to $50. You do not have to buy Honey Nut Cheerios to win. You can click on "Don't have a code?" and it will give you a free code. Go HERE to check it out.

Walgreens Trip - 6/1/09

2009-06-02T09:04:00.002-05:00

I made another trip to Walgreens on Monday. The hair dryer was advertised to be $19.99 and get a $10 Register Reward back. When I looked they were on MegaSaver for $12.99.

I bought it and used my $10 Register Reward from the Bayer Meter. I paid $4.00 ($2.99 plus tax) and got another $10 Register Reward.

Caregivers Marketplace

2009-06-01T14:13:00.004-05:00

A little while back I heard of The Caregivers Marketplace. It gives you a rebate on certain products you buy. I decided not to pursue it at that time.

Recently I gave this another look at this program. I think it is great. I just filled out the form and mailed it. I have purchased 18 packages of Huggies diapers in the last several months. I am going to get back $13.50. You can turn in any receipts from this year. You just have to have at least 5 products before you send in for your rebate.

There are many products you can purchase and get money back. For Huggies diapers, they offer $0.75 per pack. Other brands include: Nature Made Vitamins, Huggies, Pull Ups, Balmex, Os-Cal, Poise, Polident, Icy Hot, Gold Bond, Glucerna, Ensure, Depends, plus others.

You can buy the products from any store. Check it out.

Free Movie Monday

2009-06-01T12:41:00.002-05:00

Today (Monday, June 1) you can get a free rental from your local Redbox. Today's code is:

FM63H7

To find where there is a Redbox location, click HERE. You can also search movies that are available at this location.

To rent with this code, you touch the lower left corner where it says "Rent with a Promo Code" then you can enter the code. Then choose your movie. You are required to swipe either a credit or debit card. You have to use a debit or credit card because they want to charge you if you do not return the movie. You have to return it by 9pm on Tuesday if you do not want to be charged.

You can actually rent more than one movie with this code just use a different credit or debit card.

Walgreens Trip - 5/31/09

2009-05-31T21:21:00.004-05:00

I made a quick run to Walgreens this morning. Here is what I got:

Contour Meter $10.00
Ecotrin $2.00

Coupons Used:
-$10.00 Contour Meter (2/1 or 3/22 newspaper insert)
-$2.00 Ecotrin (5/17 newspaper insert)

Paid: $0.12 out of pocket
Earned: $10 (Contour Meter) and $2 (Ecotrin) Register Rewards

I didn't need either one of these things, but I paid only $0.12 and got $12 to spend later at Walgreens. I can always give the items away.

Free Kool Aid

2009-05-28T12:25:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to let you know that Kroger has Kool Aid packets on sale 10 for $1.00. There is a coupon at Coupons.com for $0.50 off 10 packets. You will have to scroll until you find the coupon. Our Kroger doubles coupons $0.50 or less, so it will double to $1.00.

You should be able to get 10 packets of Kool Aid for FREE.

Reusable Bag

2009-05-28T07:42:00.002-05:00

In April I signed up for a free reusable shopping bag from Earthbound. They had a limited supply and I was one that won.

I love using my reusable shopping bags. I try to look for any free ones or deals on bags. Most stores have bags for about $1. They hold so much more that the plastic sacks. When I bring in my groceries from the car, I don't have to make as many trips.

I have bags from WalMart, Kroger, Walgreens, CVS, and Aldi. Most bags are about the same size, but the Aldi bag is about 2 times the size of the other ones. It is great for things like diapers, chips, cereal and other things that aren't very heavy, but are a little bulky.

I have also made a few of my own bags from fabric. I really enjoyed that. I wish I had more time to do this.

Yard sales are also a great place to get bags. They don't have to look like all the other reusable bags in order to be a great bag.

If you haven't already, consider getting a reusable bag and trying it.

Entertainment Freebies

2009-05-26T09:12:00.002-05:00

I just found a great post on Freebies 4 Mom. She has posted about Entertainment Freebies 4 Families. It looks like there are some great resources there. Check it out!

Funny Mom Video

2009-05-21T22:19:00.003-05:00

I heard part of this song on the radio this morning and decided to try to find it on YouTube. It is a very funny song. Go HERE to listen to it. It is all a part of being a mom.

Walgreens Coupon

2009-05-19T20:11:00.003-05:00

Walgreens has a new coupon for $5 off a purchase of $25 or more. It is good Wednesday, May 20 and Thursday, May 21 only. Your total needs to be $25 after all manufacture and Walgreens coupons. Go HERE to print your coupon.

New Huggies Program

2009-05-19T10:55:00.007-05:00

There is a new program by Huggies called Enjoy the Ride Rewards. I signed up for it a few weeks ago. You do not have to buy diapers to earn points. You can earn points by watching videos, taking polls and telling friends. In addition to those, there are many points you can get just by entering the codes.

You get 10 points just for joining. Money Saving Mom has codes posted that should give you 100 points. It is a little slow entering all the codes, but there are several prizes you can win.

There are sweepstakes and instant win prizes. Also just for signing up, you will be entered to win diapers for a year. They are giving away a years supply of diapers everyday for a year. Yesterday I won a $25 prepaid Visa card. It is not going to arrive for 8-10 weeks. I am happy to have won!

Kraft Coupons

2009-05-15T10:39:00.002-05:00

There are some great printable Kraft coupons out now. There are a couple of different sites to print them.

kraftfoods.com
coupons.com

Deal Seeking Mom also has many other sites that you may be able to print these coupons.

There are a lot of good deals using these coupons.

Common Sense With Money - New Wal-Mart Deals
Coupon Cravings - Target Deals: $1 or less
Money Saving Mom - Kroger: Kraft BBQ Sauce

Deal on Dishwasher Detergent

2009-05-15T09:59:00.005-05:00

Electrasol is on sale at Kroger this week for $2.99. If you got the $2.50 coupon in your newspaper a few weeks ago, you can get them for only $0.49. If you did not get the coupon, you can still get some for for only $1.99. There is a $1.00 coupon located next to the dish washing detergent for Finish Quantum. This is still a pretty good deal.

Free Movie Monday

2009-05-11T09:52:00.002-05:00

Today (Monday, May 11) you can get a free rental from your local Redbox. Today's code is:

6A43JK

Free Dishwasher and $100 Stove

2009-05-10T14:45:00.003-05:00

A while back, I searched Craigslist and found a dishwasher someone was giving away. I quickly emailed and found that they still had it. I asked to see a picture and then said I wanted it. The catch was I had to wait until their new one was delivered and installed. That was not a problem for me. They had several problems with getting their dishwasher, but finally they got theirs and I was able to get my free one.

They also had an electric stove they were selling for $100. I decided to get it also. They also gave us the range hood.

So, for $100, I got a stove, dishwasher and a range hood. I am very happy with what I got. I was even able to sell my old stove for $25. I gave them the dishwasher and range hood. They were very happy to get it.

If you are looking for something, check out your local Craigslist, you never know what you might find.

$1 off a 12 pack of Coke

2009-05-07T08:10:00.003-05:00

This is a great coupon!! $1 off a 12 pack of Coke. A coupon like this doesn't come along very often. You can print these from mycokerewards, but it usually costs 35 points. You should print yours today. If you print coupons using Explorer click HERE and if you use Firefox click HERE.

Right now, you can print more than 2 and each has a unique code. There is no telling how long this will last, so print yours soon.

K-Mart Super Double Coupons

2009-05-05T11:00:00.002-05:00

Kmart is having the Super Double Coupons again this week. The ad said it they were doubling coupons up to $0.75. I went into the store and there are signs at each cash register stating the ad was wrong and they are doubling coupons up to $2.00.

There are many coupon match ups HERE and HERE.

Free 2 Piece Meal from KFC

2009-05-05T10:37:00.003-05:00

Print the coupon HERE to get a free 2 piece grilled chicken meal from KFC. You should be able to print the coupon twice. Coupon is valid from 5/5/09 to 5/19/09, except on Mother's Day 5/10/09.

Free Movie Monday

2009-05-04T12:50:00.002-05:00

Today (Monday, May 4) you can get a free rental from your local Redbox. Today's code is:

BT73H9

Walgreens Trip - 5/3/09

2009-05-04T11:48:00.003-05:00

I made a quick trip to Walgreens without the girls. I started with $6 RR from last week. Here is what I got:

Transaction 1:
2 Pert Plus for Men @ 2.50
1 Colgate Sensitive @ 4.49
1 M&M @ 0.34 (needed this since I wanted to use my RR)

Coupons Used:
1 -$1.50 Pert Plus for Men (from 5/3 newspaper insert)
1 -$1.00 Pert Plus (from the 5/3 newspaper insert)
1 -$1.00 Colgate Sensitive
$6.00 RR

Total: $0.77
RR Earned: $2.00, $4.50

Transaction 2:
1 Bayer Quick Release @ 2.49
1 Right Guard Deodorant @ 2.99
2 M&Ms @ 0.50 each
1 M&M @ 0.34

Coupons Used:
1 -$1.00 Bayer Quick Release (from display)
1 -$1.00 Right Guard (from newspaper insert)
$4.50 RR from Transaction #1

Total: $0.59
RR Earned: $2.50, $2.00

Transaction 3:
1 Colgate Sensitive @ 4.49
2 M&M @ 0.34 each
2 M&M @ 0.33 each

Coupons Used:
1 -$1.00 Colgate Sensitive
$2.00 RR, $2.50 RR from Transaction # 2

Total: $0.39
RR Earned: $4.50

So in summary, I started with a $6.00 RR and ended with a $4.50 RR and a $2.50 RR. I spent $1.75 in cash.

You can check out some of the freebies at Coupon Cravings:Walgreens: What's Free This Week.

CVS Trip - 5/3/09

2009-05-04T11:27:00.003-05:00

I made a quick trip on Sunday to CVS. My mom had the girls, so I went alone. I started with $10 ECB. Here is what I got:

Transition 1:
1 12pack Spirte @ 4.00
2 12pack Coke @ 4.00 each
6 Vitamin Water @ 1.33 each

Coupons Used:
6 -$1.00 Vitamin water (from recent newspaper insert)
2 -$1.00 Coke (from MyCokeRewards)
$10 in ECBs

Total: $2.73
ECBs Earned: $10

Transition 2:
2 Kelloggs Frosted Flakes (one not pictured) @ 3.33 each
1 Kelloggs Special K @ 3.34
1 Adidas Deodorant @ 3.99

Coupons Used:
2 -$1.00 Kelloggs Frosted Flakes
1 -$1.00 Kelloggs Special K
1 -$1.00 Adidas (from newspaper insert)
$9.99 in ECBs (adjusted down) from 1st transaction

Total: $0.04
ECBs Earned: $5.00, $3.00

Transition 3:
1 Adidas Deodorant @ 3.99
2 Colgate Max Fresh @ 2.99 each

Coupons Used:
1 -$1.00 Adidas (from newspaper insert)
1 -$1.00 Colgate (from newspaper insert)
$5.00 in ECBs from 2nd transaction
$2.97 in ECBs (adjusted down) from 2nd transaction

Total: $0.16
ECBs Earned: $4.00, $3.00

So in summary, I started with $10.00 in ECBs and ended with only $7.00 in ECBS. I only paid $2.93 in cash.

You can check out some of the freebies at Coupon Cravings: CVS: What's Free This Week.

Kellogg Cereal Coupons

2009-05-01T08:49:00.003-05:00

There are new coupons to be printed at coupons.com. There are 8 different Kellogg's Cereal coupons worth $1.00 each. That can mean some inexpensive cereal. There are also Kellogg's coupons HERE.

Right now, Kroger has some Kellogg cereal for $2.18 and if you use a coupon, you can get it for $1.18 for a box.

Also next week, CVS is going to have Kellogg's Frosted Flakes, Smart Start, Frosted Mini-Wheats, and Special K (12-18 oz) cereals on sale for 3 for $10 and if you buy 3, you get $5 Extra Care Bucks. So if you buy 3 and use 3 coupons, you will pay $7 out of pocket and get $5 ECB to spend on something else you want or need.

If you print these coupons today, you will have until the end of the month to use them. You should be able to print each coupon 2 times from each website.

Free Movie Monday

2009-04-27T10:00:00.000-05:00

Today (Monday, April 27) you can get a free rental from your local Redbox. Today's code is:

4CW33N

Homemade Biscuits

2009-04-27T08:51:00.003-05:00

I mistakenly bought some self rising flour a while back. I was not sure what to do with it. Every recipe seems to call for all purpose flour. I decided to visit SuperCook.com and enter my self rising flour to see if there were any recipes that would call for it. I found this recipe for biscuits that only needed some heavy cream in addition to the flour. I thought I would give it a try. I looked at the reviews and tried to take some of the suggestions. I did not kneed the dough very long. I added a little extra cream and a little bit of sugar. I think the biscuits came out pretty good.

So for breakfast on Sunday morning, we had homemade biscuits and gravy I bought from Kroger that was marked down to $0.79. By the way, if you haven't tried this gravy or another brand like it, I would suggest you try it. I am not very good at making homemade gravy. With this gravy, you just put the gravy pouch in boiling water. It is super easy.

Free Movie Monday

2009-04-20T15:58:00.001-05:00

Today (Monday, April 20) you can get a free rental from your local Redbox. Today's code is:

M6FR97

Quick K-Mart Trip 4/20/09

2009-04-20T14:15:00.002-05:00

I made a quick trip to K-Mart. I wanted to be sure I got some of the Kelloggs Cereal. I did not take a picture, but here is what I got:

2 Boxes of Rice Krispies $5.00
1 Box of Corn Pops $2.50
1 Box of Apple Jacks $2.50
Candy $1.00
Easter Clearance $1.49

I used 4 - $1.00 off coupons for the Kelloggs Cereal. My total was $4.69 after coupons. I will also get a $5.00 gift card for buying 4 boxes of Kelloggs Cereal.

You still have time to get this deal. There are coupons for $1.00 off Kelloggs cereal available on ebay. The sale at K-Mart is good through Saturday. Even if you don't get the gift card, $0.50 for a box of cereal is pretty good.

K-Mart Super Double Coupons

2009-04-18T12:01:00.003-05:00

Some Kmart stores are having Super Double Coupons again this week. Go HERE and enter your zip code to see if your local store is participating. There are even some stores around the St. Louis area and other places, who are tripling coupons with a face value up to $0.75 and doubling coupons with a face value up to $4.00. The amount of the coupon doubled cannot exceed the value of the item. Be sure to check it out. There are many great deals to get. There is a nice list at Common Sense with Money.

It is time to get those coupons organized and start planning your trip.

Deals - Week of 4/12/09

2009-04-18T11:52:00.003-05:00

WOW! Where did the week go? I have not posted the deals from this week. If you are interested and have time, these deal are good through today (Saturday, April 18).

Coupon Cravings: CVS: What's Free this Week

Coupon Cravings: Walgreens: What's Free this Week