Weekly Goals - 10/6/08

Here are my goals for this week:

• 1. Workout 3 times (This will be a goal until I can develop it as a good habit.)
  
• 2. Make a menu for the week
  
• 3. Get picture taken of one of the girls at Sears
  
• 4. Clip & file coupons from this week
  
• 5. Post to this blog each day
  
• 6. Post to family blog 3 times
• 7. Clean out drawer in buffet
  
• 8. Take recycling
  
• 9. Clean out the car
  
• 10. Spend a little time each day for myself
  

Here is how I did with last week's goals:

Goal 1: Workout 3 times. I did not make it to the gym this week. I have been concentrating on trying to be happy. I did walk one time this week. I am going to do better next week.

Goal 2: Make a menu for the week. I completed this.

Goal 3: Get picture taken of one of the girls at Sears. I did not do this yet. I will try to complete it this week.

Goal 4: Clip & file coupons from last week. All my coupons got clipped and some got filed. I am almost caught up.

Goal 5: Take cans to be recycled. I took these this week and got $5 which I used for lunch one day.

Goal 6: Make a tutu. I made Cassidy's tutu. She really liked it.

Goal 7: Clean out drawer in buffet. I did not complete this yet.

Goal 8: Take recycling on Saturday. I forgot to take the recycling. I remembered at about noon on Saturday and they were getting ready to close. I will take it this week.

Goal 9: Try a new recipe. We tried the Chicken Casserole last week. I think it was a success. It was a very easy meal that we will have again.

Goal 10: Plan & have a birthday party for Cassidy (she is going to be 6 years old). Cassidy's party was Friday night and she had a good time. She loves parties and being the center of attention. I think she got many of the gifts she was wanting. She is growing up so fast.

Walgreens Coupon

There is a new Walgreens coupon good this Friday and Saturday (October 3 & 4) only. It is $5 off a purchase of $20 or more. Go HERE to print your coupon.

This would be a great coupon to use for the free after rebate deals or the register rewards deals.

CVS

Are you new to CVS? I compiled some links on how to best shop at CVS and using the Extra Care Bucks. Click on the links below:

• Money Saving Mom: CVS 101
• Money Saving Mom: Q & A
  
• The Thrifty Mama: CVS 101
• Be A Blessing: How to CVS (I am not real familiar with this site, but it looks to have some great resources)

Hopefully these tutorials will explain everything you could ever want to know about shopping at CVS.

Walgreens

Are you new to Walgreens? I compiled some links on how to best utilize the deals at Walgreens including the monthly rebates. Click on the links below:

• I Heart Wags
  
• Money Saving Mom
  
• The Homemakers Resource

I am sure there are others, but these are a few good resources on learning to shop at Walgreens.

Super Double Coupons @ Kmart

The Super Double Coupons are back at Kmart. It is advertised in select stores, but several people have been told that all stores will honor it. I am not sure, you may want to call your local store before spending lots of time collecting you coupons. They are doubling coupons up to a $2 face value. This event takes place from October 1 - October 5, so hurry into you local Kmart.

You can check out some of the deals at the following sites:

• Common Sense with Money
• BeCentsAble
• Pinching Your Pennies Forum

If I find any more sites with deals, I will add to this.

Happy Shopping!

Walgreens Deals - Week of 9/28/08

Here are a few places I look for Walgreens Deals each week:

• BeCentsAble
  
• Deal Seeking Mom
  
• I Heart Wags
  
• The Thrifty Mama

CVS Deals - Week of 9/28/08

I thought I would share a few of the sites where I find my deals each week.

Here are some places I look for the CVS deals each week:

• BeCentsAble
• The "Cent"sible Sawyer
• Coupon Cravings
• Deal Seeking Mom
• I Heart CVS
• Money Saving Mom
• The Thrifty Mama

Menu Plan Monday

This Week's Menu:

• Monday: Chicken/Shrimp, Peas, Mac & Cheese
  
• Tuesday: Chicken Casserole
  
• Wednesday: Chili, Veggies
  
• Thursday: Roast, Potatoes, Carrots
  
• Friday: Pizza & Cake (Cassidy's Birthday)
  
• Saturday, Lunch: Sandwiches, Chips, & Veggies
  
• Saturday, Supper: Hot Dogs, Chips, Beans
• Sunday, Lunch: Eat Out
• Sunday, Supper: On your own
  

Weekly Goals - 9/29/08

Here are my goals for this week:

• 1. Workout 3 times (This will be a goal until I can develop it as a good habit.)
  
• 2. Make a menu for the week
  
• 3. Get picture taken of one of the girls at Sears
  
• 4. Clip & file coupons from this week
  
• 5. Take cans to be recycled
  
• 6. Make a tutu
• 7. Clean out drawer in buffet
  
• 8. Take recycling on Saturday
  
• 9. Try a new recipe
• 10. Plan & have a birthday party for Cassidy (she is going to be 6 years old)
  

Here is how I did with last week's goals:

Goal 1: Workout 3 times. I only made it to the gym one time this past week. I took a walk with Ryan one night and then we went to Holiday World on Sunday. I think the workout at Holiday World was probably the hardest. It seems like everywhere you go it is uphill (especially when you are pushing the stroller). Ryan & I did take turns pushing the stroller.

Goal 2: Make a menu for the week. I completed this.

Goal 3: Get picture taken of one of the girls at Sears. I did not do this last week. I will try to do it this week.

Goal 4: File coupons. Before the coupons came this weekend in the newspaper, I had all (except a few I may still find) my coupons clipped and filed. I was SO happy. I took out all the coupons that were expiring this week. I want to clip the coupons from this week and get them filed before I get any more coupons.

Goal 5: Send for rebates that are on the computer desk. I finally got these sent off.

Goal 6: Sew something. Sadly, I did not take the time to sew something this week either. Cassidy's birthday is this week and I would like to try to make the tutu for her birthday.

Goal 7: Clean out drawer in buffet. I started to clean out one of the drawers, but I did not complete it yet. I will try to finish this week.

Goal 8: Organize cleaning supply closet. I finished organizing the closet, you can see it HERE.

Goal 9: Try a new recipe. We did not try any new recipes this week.

Goal 10: Make a Shutterfly book. I can be a little bit of a procrastinator. I had a free photo book from Shutterfly, but it had to be ordered by the 26th. Of course, I worked on it that day and finally completed it in the early evening. I went to order it and found out that the style I picked was not one of the free books. I was pretty disappointed. I decided I was not going to give up my free book, so I spent a couple of hours after the girls went to bed working on a new book that would be free. I completed it. I also had a free Shutterfly book that I won, so I ordered 2 copies of the book I completed. Since I worked all day on the first book, I decided to order that one also. I ended up paying a little over $30 for all three books including shipping. These books usually run about $30 each plus about $8 shipping. I can't wait until they come. The books should be here either the end of this week, or early next week. I will post a picture when they come.

Free Movie Monday

Today (Monday, September 29) you can get a free rental from your local Redbox. Today's code is:

LA45W7

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.

CVS Sale Dates

I just wanted to let everyone know that our local CVS is going back to the sales starting on Sunday and ending on Saturday. You should get a sales ad in Saturday's (or Sunday's) newspaper.

Walgreens Coupon & Deals

There is a new Walgreens coupon good this Friday and Saturday (9/26 & 9/27) only. You save $5 when you spend $20 or more. Go HERE to print your coupon.

Today and tomorrow the September and October Easy Saver Books overlap. You can use the coupons from both books. This is a good time to get some of the rebate items.

Here are a few sites with deals using this coupon:

• Deal Seeking Mom
• I Heart Wags
• Money Saving Mom
• The "Cent"sible Sawyer
• The Thrifty Mama

Menu Plan Monday (or Wednesday)

This Week's Menu:

• Monday: On you own (leftovers, soup, etc)
  
• Tuesday: Biscuits & Gravy
  
• Wednesday: Eat out (kids are going to the neighbor's house)
  
• Thursday: Chicken Casserole
  
• Friday: Spaghetti, Salad, Bread
  
• Saturday: Lunch: Leftovers, Supper: Hot Dogs, Chips, Beans
• Sunday: Lunch: Eat Out, Supper: Cook on Grill, Corn, Potatoes

Organized Cleaning Supply Closet

BEFORE

AFTER

I finally finished cleaning this closet. My mom came over yesterday to help me clean the house. After cleaning up the kitchen and living room, I felt a little energized. Mom said she would help the closet also. I started emptying the closet out and it didn't take long to organize the shelves. At least now, like things are together and nothing is falling off the shelves. I may be hard to tell in the pictures, but it is much better.

Weekly Goals - 9/23/08

Here are my goals for this week:

• 1. Workout 3 times (This will be a goal until I can develop it as a good habit.)
  
• 2. Make a menu for the week
  
• 3. Get picture taken of one of the girls at Sears
  
• 4. File coupons
  
• 5. Send for rebates that are on the computer desk.
  
• 6. Sew something
• 7. Clean out drawer in buffet
  
• 8. Organize cleaning supply closet
• 9. Try a new recipe
• 10. Make a Shutterfly book
  

Here is how I did with last week's goals:

Goal 1: Workout 3 times. Same as last week. I took a walk around the neighborhood 2 times and worked out at the gym only once. I am going to try to workout at the gym more this week.

Goal 2: Make a menu for the week. I completed this.

Goal 3: Iron 5 things. I completed this.

Goal 4: File coupons. I am still working on my coupons. It is never ending.

Goal 5: Take recycling. Thanks to my wonderful husband, this goal was completed.

Goal 6: Sew something. Sadly, I did not take the time to sew something. I did go to a fabric store to buy the supplies to make the girls a tutu.

Goal 7: Clean out drawer in buffet. I completed this. I have several other drawers I want to complete, so I will make this a goal again.

Goal 8: Organize cleaning supply closet. I did not get to this yet. I will complete it next week.

Goal 9: Try a new recipe. I did this. We had Shrimp Fried Rice instead of our usual Chicken Fried Rice. Of course, I did not eat it, I don't like shrimp. I am going to try to have something new next week also.

Goal 10: Find good place for Cassidy's school papers. I bought a portable hanging file folder case. I put her papers she brings home each day in there. I also put all important papers from school in a folder in the front of the case. She keeps her library book and her speech folder on top of the case. It is all easy to find when we need it.

Free Movie Monday

Today (Monday, September 22) you can get a free rental from your local Redbox. Today's code is:

CR654D

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.

CVS Deals 9/19 - 9/25 (or 9/21 - 9/27)

I decided I would share some CVS deals with you this week. Most CVS stores run there sale Sunday - Saturday, but our store recently started running their sales Friday - Thursday. I read many blogs to find the best deals for me. Here are a few you could look at to find the best deals for you:

The Thrifty Mama
I Heart CVS
Economic Endeavors
Coupon Cravings


There are a few other sites I look at, but they do not have their preview up yet. I will try to update this when they post their CVS deals.

Kroger Trip 9/16/08

I made a quick trip to Kroger yesterday. I needed some cheese for the lasagna I was making. I also wanted to use a few of my coupons that were going to be expiring.

Here is what I got:

10 Cottonelle Toilet Paper @ $0.99 each
7 Neutra Air Kit @ $5.99 each on sale
1 Kroger Cheese @ $2.39
2 Glade Warmers @ $1.89 each
1 20oz Coke @ $1.49

Coupons Used:
1 Free Coke $1.49
BOGO Free Glade Warmer $1.89
10 Cottonelle $0.50 doubled to $0.99 each
7 Neutra Air $5.00 each
Took in my own bags $0.04 (x7)

After looking at my receipt, I noticed I got an extra $1.00 took off my total.

Total Before Coupons: $63.94
Total After Coupons: $13.94
Total Coupons Savings: $50.00

The bottom of my receipt says:

• Mfg coupon savings $43.88
• Bonus coupons savings $5.40
• Kroger plus savings $42.28
• Total Savings (90%) $91.56

This was a great trip.

Free Movie Monday

Today (Monday, September 15) you can get a free rental from your local Redbox. Today's code is:

2THS48

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.

Menu Plan Monday 9/15/08

I decided to participate in Menu Plan Monday at I'm an Organizing Junkie this week. This is my first time. I have looked at many other peoples menus there and have found a few recipes to try.

This Week's Menu:

• Monday: Lasagna, Salad, Garlic Bread
• Tuesday: Turkey Ham, Corn, Mac & Cheese
  
• Wednesday: Steak on Grill, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans
  
• Thursday: Roast, Potatoes, Carrots
  
• Friday: Eggplant Parmesan
  
• Saturday: Lunch: Leftover Roast, Supper: Hot Dogs, Chips, Beans
• Sunday: Lunch: Eat Out, Supper: Cook on Grill, Corn, Potatoes

Check out other menus at I'm an Organizing Junkie.

Weekly Goals - Week of 9/14/08

Here are my goals for this week:

• 1. Workout 3 times
  
• 2. Make a menu for the week
  
• 3. Iron 5 things
  
• 4. File coupons
  
• 5. Take recycling
  
• 6. Sew something
• 7. Clean out drawer in buffet
  
• 8. Organize cleaning supply closet
• 9. Try a new recipe
• 10. Find good place for Cassidy's school papers
  

Here is how I did with last week's goals:

Goal 1: Workout 3 times. I took a walk around the neighborhood 2 times and worked out at the gym only once. I am going to try to workout at the gym more this week.

Goal 2: Make a menu for the week. I completed this.

Goal 3: Iron 5 things. I completed this.

Goal 4: Work on coupons. I am still working on my coupons. I think I just about have everything clipped including this week. I have them sorted in two categories - food or non-food. I am going to do my best to get everything filed this week.

Goal 5: Finish organizing pantry. I finished this and you can see a picture HERE.

Goal 6: Make a dessert for new neighbors. I did not make a dessert for our new neighbors, but I did make a dessert for my parents. My mom had surgery this past week and I made them a meal and dessert.

Goal 7: Lower Chloe's bed. I completed this.

Goal 8: Organize cleaning supply closet. I did not get to this yet. I will make it a goal for next week.

Goal 9: Try a new recipe. I did not do this yet. I planned a couple of new things, but we did not get to them. We will strive for something new next week.

Goal 10: Enter codes at Pampers.com. I completed this.

Walgreens Coupon

Walgreens put out another coupon. This is good only on Friday, September 12 and Saturday, September 13. It is for $10 off you purchase of $40 or more. You can find the coupon HERE.

This would be a great time to get some of the monthly rebate items if you still haven't picked them up. You can find a list of the rebate items at I heart Walgreens.

An Organized Pantry

I finally finished organizing my pantry. This closet actually used to be our laundry closet. We put shelves in it this year and expanded our storage. The only problem is it has been unorganized.

BEFORE

AFTER

I've put many things in containers and labeled them. I put shelf liners on some shelves to prevent the cans and boxes from falling over. I am happy with the results and happy to be finished. I added a basket, but I am not sure what I want to put in it yet. I also added a nail to hang my reusable bags. I still would like to get something to hang up for my plastic bags. I figured next time I venture to Wal-Mart or K-Mart, I will look.

Menu Plan Monday

This Week's Menu:

• Monday: Make your own Tacos
  
• Tuesday: Baked Halibut Steaks, Corn, Mac & Cheese
  
• Wednesday: Lasagna, Salad, Garlic Bread
  
• Thursday: Roast, Potatoes, Carrots
  
• Friday: Eggplant Parmesan
  
• Saturday: Lunch: Leftover Roast, Supper: Hot Dogs, Chips, Beans
• Sunday: Lunch: Eat Out, Supper: Cook on Grill, Corn, Potatoes

Free Movie Monday

Today (Monday, September 8) you can get a free rental from your local Redbox. Today's code is:

99ZA7Q

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.

Weekly Goals - Week of 9/8/08

Here are my goals for this week:

• 1. Workout 3 times
  
• 2. Make a menu for the week
  
• 3. Iron 5 things
  
• 4. Work on coupons
  
• 5. Finish organizing pantry
• 6. Make a dessert for new neighbors
• 7. Lower Chloe's bed
• 8. Organize cleaning supply closet
• 9. Try a new recipe
• 10. Enter codes at Pampers.com
  

Here is how I did with last week's goals:

Goal 1: Workout 3 times. I walked with a friend on Tuesday evening, went to the gym on Wednesday morning, and walked with Ryan on Saturday.

Goal 2: Make a menu for the week. I completed this.

Goal 3: Iron 5 things. I completed this.

Goal 4: Work on coupons. I am still working on my coupons. I was really motivated this week and got a lot clipped and filed. K-Mart had double coupons and I wanted to be able to find the coupons I wanted to use. I will try to get caught up more this week.

Goal 5: Get ready for yard sale. We had a yard sale on Saturday. I just wasn't that motivated to gather things to sale. I did find a few things and Ryan found a few things. It was a success. We got rid of some things we did not want anymore and made a little money in the process.

Goal 6: Finish organizing pantry. I did not work on this at all. I will try to finish this week. I am proud of the work I have done so far, I just need to complete it.

Goal 7: Make a dessert for someone. I still did not do this. I am going to work on it this week. We had some new neighbors move in a couple of houses down, so I am going to make some cookies or something for them welcoming them to the neighborhood.

Goal 8: Enter Coke codes at mycokerewards.com at least 3 times. I did this. I entered all the codes that I had saved in the cabinet.

I need your help

We are wanting to try to eat a little healthier. We usually have a meat and potato kind of meal. We usually add something starchy like mac & cheese, pasta, bread, corn. I know there is a balance between eating what we usually eat and eating super healthy. We have tried a few things, but we are still looking for meals to add to our favorites.

If you know of a meal, main dish, side dish, or even a dessert, please leave a comment with the recipe or a link. We would like to try at least one new thing this week.

Thank you for your help.

Walgreens - 9/5/08

I thought I would share a few deals with you.

Here is what I got:
1 Crest Pro Health Mouthwash 500ml @ $4.49
2 Visine @ $3.99 each

Coupons used:
2 - $2.00 printable Visine coupons
2 - $2.00 September Easy Saver Catalog

Total: $4.47 + tax = $4.59

I got a $4.50 Register Reward for buying the Crest Mouthwash to spend next time.

One word of warning: if you use the Register Reward to buy the mouthwash again, then another Register Reward may not print.

Double Coupons at K-Mart

I told you about the double coupons at select K-Mart stores HERE. I went this morning to my local K-Mart and asked if they were doing double coupons. I was told they are not one of the participating stores, but if the customer knows about the double coupons, then they will honor it. So check with your store. It may be if you know about the promotion, then you can get double coupons.

I got a few things this morning. I mostly focused on trying several coupons values and I wanted to buy 12 Boxtop items to earn 100 Boxtops for our school. Here is a picture of what I got:

Here is what I got:
1 Goodlife Cat Food @ 4.79
-2.00 coupon - 2.00 doubled = $0.79
6 Ziploc Bags @ 2.50 each = $15.00
(3) -1.00/2 coupon - 1.00/2 doubled = $9.00
2 Ziploc Bags @ 2.19 each = $4.38
-1.00/2 coupon - 1.00/2 doubled = $2.38
2 Ziploc Steam Bags $2.99 each = $5.98
(2) - 1.00 coupon - 1.00 doubled = 1.98
4 Kleenex @ $1.25 each = $5.00
- 0.50/3 coupon - 0.50/3 doubled
- 1.25 Free upright when you buy 3 boxes = $2.75
1 Greased Lighting Cleaner @ $2.89
- 1.50 coupon - 1.50 doubled = -0.11 (should have just been free)
2 Gripz Snacks @ $3.00 each = $6.00
- 1.00/2 coupon - 1.00/2 doubled = $4.00
2 M&M minis @ $0.79 each = $1.58

TOTAL before coupons: $39.62
TOTAL after coupons: $22.37 + tax = $25.32

CVS Challenge - 9/3/08

It has been a while since I posted my deals for my CVS Challenge. I am not going to give details for each transaction, just my most recent one.

Starting Balances:

• Gift Card: $18.83
• ECBs: $7.00

Ending Balances:

• Gift Card: $14.70
• ECBs: $16.79

August 7, 2008

August 10, 2008

August 20, 2008

September 3, 2008

Here is what I got:

4 Suave Body Wash @ $2.00 each
2 Men's Suave Body Wash @ $2.00 each


Coupons Used:

$2 off $10 CVS Coupon
3 - BOGO Free Suave Body Wash
$4.00 in ECBs used

My total was $0.47 and I earned $4.00 in ECBs.

CVS Trip - 9/3/08

Sorry it has been so long since I posted some of my CVS deals. I went on Wednesday this week and this is what I got:
1 - Accu-Chek @ $9.99
2 - Atkins Snack Bars @ $1.00 each (not pictured)
1 - Hershey Candy Bar @ $0.50 (not pictured)
1 - Special K Bar @ $1.49 (I thought it was $0.22)

Coupons Used:
$2 off $10 purchase CVS coupon
2 - $1.00 off Atkins Snack Bar = $2.00
$10.00 (adjusted to $9.98 in ECB)

Total out of pocket: $0.02
ECBs earned: $9.99

Double Coupons at K-Mart

I just wanted to let everyone know that some K-Mart Stores are having a sale September 4th - 8th. They are doubling coupons up to and including $2.00. I am so excited. I called our local K-Mart and they said they were not participating. If you find a store that is participating, there are a few rules. They are:

• Limit 75 coupons per customer per day.
• Internet coupons or copies of manufacturer instant coupons are not valid.
• You may only purchase 4 of the same items using double coupons.
• Coupons do not apply to sales tax.
• Only 1 coupon will be doubled per item.
• Limit 1 coupon for each item purchased.
• No cash or in-store purchase credit will be awarded for any amount exceeding the retail price of the item.
• Amount of credit from doubling a coupon cannot exceed the retail price of an item.
• Offer excludes products prohibited by law, including but not limited to alcohol, tobacco, and prescription medication.
• In the event of a return, coupon savings may be deducted from refund.

Leave a comment if you find a store that is participating.

UPDATE: Click HERE for a list of participating stores. You have to scroll down a little bit before you see the list of stores. I hope this has been a help.

Menu Plan Monday

This Week's Menu:

• Monday: Steak, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, Pasta Salad, Rolls
  
• Tuesday: Chicken Nuggets, French Fries, Cut up Veggies
  
• Wednesday: Roast, Potatoes, Carrots, Bread
  
• Thursday: Spaghetti, Salad, Rolls
  
• Friday: Leftover Roast
  
• Saturday: Lunch: Pizza, Supper: Hot Dogs, Chips, Beans
• Sunday: Lunch: Eat Out, Supper: Cook on Grill, Corn, Potatoes
  

Free Movie Monday

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

B7RS23

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.

Weekly Goals - 9/1/08

I usually try to make 10 goals each week, but we decided to have a yard sale on Saturday. I decided I needed a little time to work on preparing for the sale. So, here are my weekly goals:

• 1. Workout 3 times
  
• 2. Make a menu for the week
  
• 3. Iron 5 things
  
• 4. Work on coupons
  
• 5. Get ready for yard sale
• 6. Finish organizing pantry
• 7. Make a dessert for someone
• 8. Enter Coke codes at mycokerewards.com at least 3 times

Here is how I did with last week's goals:

Goal 1: Join the gym. I did this on Monday.

Goal 2: Workout at the gym 3 times. I went on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday.

Goal 3: Make out a menu for the week. I completed this.

Goal 4: Organize the pantry. I really got a lot done on this. I an not finished, but I got the bulk of it finished. I am going to make it a goal to finish the pantry this week. I will post a before and after picture next week.

Goal 5: Ask when I can volunteer at the school. Cassidy's teacher called on Monday to check if we had any questions. I asked her about volunteering and she said she would need more help as the year goes on. I am hoping to be able to volunteer before that a little bit also.

Goal 6: Iron 5 things. I did this.

Goal 7: Clip & organize more coupons. I am still working on this. I am sorting my coupons into a 3 ring binder using baseball card holders to put them in. I have most of the coupons cut out, I just need to sort them and file them in the correct places. I feel like this is becoming a burden, so I have not been buying as many papers recently. I usually just get a couple. I have also been saving my expired coupons because I heard of a program where you send them to a military base overseas and they can use them. I have not been able to get myself together enough to mail them out. I am going to start fresh and throw away all my expired coupons. After I am better organized, I will save them and mail them out.

Goal 8: Work on a few more baby gifts. I was able to finish a few more gifts for a friend of mine who is about to have a baby. I can't wait to give them to her.

Goal 9: Enter Coke codes at mycokerewards.com at least 5 times. I did this. I entered 50 codes this week. I still have a few to enter, but I am almost caught up.

Goal 10: Make a dessert for someone else. I haven't done this yet. I wanted to, just no time. I will do it next week. Who should I make a dessert for, any suggestions?

Walgreens - 8/29/08

Today and tomorrow the August and September Easy Saver Books overlap. You can use the coupons and get the rebates from each book. I was so excited about going this morning, I got up early, got the kids ready early and left to to to Walgreens before I took Cassidy to school. The only problem is Walgreens doesn't open until 8am. I was there at 7:30am. I just came back home and went later.

1st Transaction (August Rebates)Here is what I got:

4 - Oust Surface & Air @ $3.99 = $15.96

• 2 - B1G1 Free Oust = -$7.98
• 2 - $1.50 Oust = -$3.00
• 4 - $1.00/1 September Easy Saver Book = -$4.00
  

2 - 2 pack Glade Scented Oil Refills @ $4.49 = $8.98

• B1G1 Free Glade Refills = -$4.49
• $1.00/1 Glade Refills = -$1.00
• 2 - $1.00/1 September Easy Saver Book = -$2.00

2 - Twizzlers @ $1.50 = $3.00


15.96 - 7.98 - 3.00 - 4.00 + 8.98 - 4.49 - 1.00 - 2.00 + 3.00 = $5.47 + tax

I spent $7.43 total including tax.

Rebates:
$3.00 rebate from the Glade Scented Oil Refills
$4.00 rebate for the Oust

I will get a $7.00 rebate plus the 10% for putting it on a gift card, so I will get a $7.70 rebate.

$7.70 - $7.43 = $0.27 profit

2nd Transaction (September Rebate)

Here is what I got:
1 - Chemistry Shampoo @ $7.99

• $3.00 August Easy Saver Book = -$3.00

3 - Garnier Fructis Shampoo @ $3.49 = $10.47

• 3 - $1.00 Garnier Fructis = -$3.00
• 3 - $1.00/1 August Easy Saver Book = -$3.00

3 - Garnier Fructis Stylers @ $3.99 = $11.97

• 3 - $1.00 Garnier Fructis = -$3.00
• 3 - $1.00/1 August Easy Saver Book = -$3.00

4 - M & Ms @ $3.00 = $12.00

• $1.00/2 August Easy Saver Book = -$2.00

1 - L'Oreal Advanced RevitaLift AntiWrinkle Concentrate @ $12.36

• $3.00 L'Oreal coupon = -$3.00

2 - Glade Scented Oil Warmers B1G1 Free so = $4.79

• 1 - B1G1 Coupon = -$4.79
• 1 - $4.00/1 = -$4.00

5 - Glade Odor Eliminator @ $3.49 = $17.45

• 5 - $1.50 Glade coupon = -$7.50
• 5 - $1.50/1 August Easy Saver Book = -$7.50
• 5 - $1.00/1 September Easy Saver Book = -$5.00

1 - Benefiber 28 count Stick Pack @ $9.99

• $2.00 Benefiber coupon = -$2.00
• $2.00 August Easy Saver Book = -$2.00
• $5.00 September Easy Saver Book = -$5.00

1 - Revlon Nail Polish @ $4.79

1 - Nivea for Men Body Wash @ $4.99

• $1.00 Nivea coupon = -$1.00

1 - Crest Pro Health Toothpaste @ $3.79

• $0.75 Crest coupon = -$0.75

7.99 - 3.00 + 10.47 - 3.00 - 3.00 + 11.97 - 3.00 - 3.00 + 12.00 - 2.00 + 12.36 - 3.00 + 4.79 - 4.79 - 4.00 + 17.45 - 7.50 - 7.50 - 5.00 + 9.99 - 2.00 - 2.00 - 5.00 + 4.79 + 4.99 - 1.00 + 3.79 - 0.75 - 10.00 ($10 off $40) = $31.05 (my total before tax was actually $32.26) I was charged $0.21 to much for one of the M&Ms.

I spent $36.52 total including tax.

Rebates:
$7.99 Chemistry Shampoo
$10.00 Garnier Fructis (Buy $20, get $10)
$5.00 M&Ms (Buy 4 bags, get $5)
$12.36 L'Oreal Advanced RevitaLift
$1.00 Glade Warmer
$4.79 Revlon Nail Polish
$4.99 Nivea for Men Body Wash
$3.79 Crest Pro Health Toothpaste
----------
TOTAL: $49.92 + $4.99 (10% bonus) = $54.91


$54.91 - $36.52 = $18.39 profit

YEAH! GOOD DAY!

Sample of Secret Clinical Strength Sport Deodorant

There is a sample of Secret Clinical Strength Sport Deodorant. You have to type or copy and paste the website in your browser.

https://secretsport.safeprocessing.com/

Walgreens Coupon

There is a new Walgreens coupon good Friday and Saturday only (8/29 & 8/30). It is $10 off a $40 purchase. Remember your total needs to be $40 after all coupons.

I think this coupon is exciting because Friday and Saturday are when the August and September Easy Saver Catalogs overlap. Both are valid on these days. There are lots of good deals to be found during this time.

Free Movie

Redbox is giving us free movie codes for the month of August, so watch each week for the new code. This is the last week. Today's code is:

DB96TH

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.

Free Magazines

I recently was told about a web site called AdPerk. You can watch videos in order to earn free magazine subscriptions. I have earned a few magazines. I also earned a $5 Sears gift card (this is no longer available) that I just received. Currently you can earn subscriptions to Field & Stream and Ode Magazine. There are many more coming soon. Check it out at www.adperk.com.

Menu Plan Monday

Breakfast:

• cereal
• waffles
• pancakes
• oatmeal
• toast
• eggs

Lunch:

• ham sandwiches
• hot dogs
• pizza rolls
• chicken nuggets
• leftovers

Supper:

• Monday: Eggs, Biscuits & Gravy
  
• Tuesday: Spaghetti, Salad, Rolls
  
• Wednesday: Roast, Potatoes, Carrots, Bread
  
• Thursday: Tacos
  
• Friday: Cook on Grill, Corn, Macaroni & Cheese
• Saturday: Hot Dogs, Chips, Beans
  
• Sunday: Chicken Nuggets & French Fries
  

Today (Monday, August 18) you can get a free rental from your local Redbox. Today's code is:

X4N19P

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.

Weekly Goals - Week of 8/25/08

Here are my weekly goals:

• 1. Join the gym
  
• 2. Workout at the gym 3 times
  
• 3. Make out a menu for the week
• 4. Organize the pantry
  
• 5. Ask when I can volunteer at the school
  
• 6. Iron 5 things
  
• 7. Clip & organize more coupons
• 8. Work on a few more baby gifts
  
• 9. Enter Coke codes at mycokerewards.com at least 5 times
  
• 10. Make a dessert for someone else
  

Here is how I did with last week's goals:

Goal 1: Walk 75 minutes. I walked only 15 minutes.

Goal 2: Visit Cassidy's school. I went, turned in my volunteer sheet and told them I wanted to be at the school once a week.

Goal 3: Organize pantry. I did not get to this yet. I wanted some containers from Wal-Mart, but I couldn't find them.

Goal 4: Organize freezer. I did this. I now can find more things and I fit a few more things in the freezer. (See pictures below.)

Goal 5: Iron 5 things. I did this and ironed even more than 5.

Goal 6: Clip & file coupons. This seems to be never ending. If I can get caught up, I think the weekly papers will be easier to keep up with.

Goal 7: Do/make something special for Ryan. I feel like this and a few other goals are not specific enough. How do I decide if something I did or made is special enough to fall under this goal? I did get to sit in the Hot Tub with Ryan and I made him steak. I think he enjoyed both of those things.

Goal 8: Do/make something special for Cassidy. We made mints together Saturday night.

Goal 9: Do/make something special for Callie. We played on the computer together.

Goal 10: Do/make something special for someone else. As suggested by Susan, I decided to so something for myself. I rented a few movies for myself and watched them.

Freezer Before

Freezer After

Walgreens - 8/17 - 8/23

I thought I would share a few Walgreens deals from this week. These are good through 8/23/08. Don't forget you can go HERE to print a coupon for $5 off your $20 purchase.

Hefty One Zip Bags 2/$2.79
Dixie Plates or Bowls 2/$3.79 (in ad coupon)
- $0.35 coupon from last week's paper (can use 2)
Dove Hair Care 2/$4.99
- $2.00 coupon from last week's paper (can use 2)

REGISTER REWARD DEALS
Buy 3, Get $1.50, Buy 6 or more, Get $4.00
Ragu Spaghetti Sauce or Skippy Peanut Butter 3/$5.00
Use $1.00/3 Ragu Spaghetti Sauce coupon from last week's paper
Use $0.40 Skippy Peanut Butter coupon from last week's paper

Buy $30 or more, Get $10
Clean & Clear - on sale - Buy one, get one 50% off
Printable $2.00 (I was able to print several of these)
Printable $5.00 Blackhead Eraser

There are also many item for just $0.39 this week.

Visit Being Frugal is Fabulous and Southern Savers for more Walgreens deals.

Walgreens Coupon

There is a new Walgreens coupon for $5 off $20 or more. Remember you total needs to be at least $20 before taxes and after coupons. Go HERE to print your coupon. It is good Friday, August 22 & Saturday August 23.

I am a little sad. I went to Walgreens this afternoon before I knew there was a coupon. I still got a few deals. I will try to post them soon.

Redbox is giving us free movie codes for the month of August, so watch each week for the new code. Today's code is:

JK4HM5

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.

Kroger Trip 8/19/08

I went to Kroger this morning. We needed several things and I wanted to take advantage of the sale they had on the Nestle products. I spent $77.80 and saved $89.23 with coupons and sales. I am not going to list everything out, but there were a few things worth noting.

Cheerios $2.00 each - $1.00 coupon HERE and HERE


Buy $20 in Nestle participating products and save $5.00 instantly.
Here are a few notable products:

Juicy Juice $2.50 each - $1.00 coupon HERE and HERE
Carnation Instant Breakfast $4.99 & $5.99 - $2.00 coupon HERE
Nestle Cookie Dough $2.50 - $1.00 coupon HERE and HERE
Lean Cuisine $2.00 - $1.00 coupon HERE

Weekly Goals - Week of 8/18/08

I didn't post my goals last week. It seems we have been really busy with the start of school for Ryan and Cassidy. I am hoping to get back into things very soon. I thought I would make a few goals for this week.

1. Walk 75 minutes
2. Visit Cassidy's school (or a least find out what I need to do)
3. Organize pantry
4. Organize freezer
5. Iron 5 things
6. Clip & file coupons
7. Do/make something special for Ryan
8. Do/make something special for Cassidy
9. Do/make something special for Callie
10. Do/make something special for someone else

I am going to do my best to meet each and every goal this week.

Menu Plan Monday

Breakfast:

• cereal
• waffles
• pancakes
• oatmeal
• toast
• eggs

Lunch:

• ham sandwiches
• hot dogs
• pizza rolls
• chicken nuggets
• leftovers

Supper:

• Monday: Turkey Ham, Potatoes, Macaroni & Cheese, Corn, Bread
  
• Tuesday: Homemade Pizza, Salad
• Wednesday: Hamburger Helper, Potatoes, Bread
• Thursday: Cook on Grill (Deer?), Corn, Green Beans
  
• Friday: Chicken & Pasta, Salad, Rolls
• Saturday: Eggs, Biscuits, Gravy
  
• Sunday: Tacos
  

Free Movie Monday

Today (Monday, August 18) you can get a free rental from your local Redbox. Today's code is:

65QM89

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.

Deals from the Past Few Weeks

K-Mart

I went to K-Mart on 8/4/08 and bought some more Pert Shampoo. It was priced at $2.99 each and I had coupons for $3.00 off. I also found a toy for the girls. I would have loved to save it until Christmas, but they were with me. I got the baby and her accessories for only $3.00 it was originally $30.00. For everything in the picture, I spent $4.56 and of that $1.62 was tax. I think it was a pretty good trip.

Kroger

I went to Kroger on 8/8/08 and bought everything in the bag for only $6.13 (including tax). I got 19 Pillsbury items that were on sale for $1.00 each. I had 16 coupons for $0.35 off which were doubled to $0.70 and I had 3 coupons for $0.30 off which were doubled to $0.60.

Walgreens

My total out of pocket for everything in the picture was $3.19. I used a $7.00 Register Reward from an Olay deal a few weeks ago and 2 - $5.00 Register Rewards from the Kellogg's purchase I posted about. I also used my gift card from last month which was $13.19. I am not going to go through the details since most of these deals are no longer available.

In addition to the picture above I went and bought at least 8 more packages of diapers and training pants. I got a total of 10 packages last week. It may take us a while, but we will go through them and at about $1.50 a pack, how could I pass them up.

A Time of Change

Today is Cassidy's first day of kindergarten. We had planned to home school her, but decided against it. I have been a little overwhelmed since the birth of Chloe, our third child. Life can be difficult with 3 children. With that in mind, we decided to seek other schooling options. We looked at a couple of Christian schools and our public school. In the end, we decided the Christian schools were too expensive and she would go to the public school. The public school in our town is new and is a very nice facility. We were impressed. After seeing the school, Cassidy couldn't wait to go.

It was hard to leave her there this morning. She has gone to preschool in the past, but it has always been half of the day. I was a little sad leaving her there. I will not pick her up until 3:10 this afternoon. She will eat lunch at school. She has never eaten her lunch at school before. I hope she will do well. I know she will, it is just a mother's fear for her child.

Today our neighbor is watching the younger 2 children for about an hour. I want to be able to go to the school to help out and get to know the teachers and the staff. Our neighbor is going to watch the girls while I do that. I am leaving them there a few times to be sure they do well. I know they will.

So all is quiet in the house right now. I am not sure what to do with myself. I already did the dishes and put a load of laundry in the washing machine. I thought I would sit down and share my thoughts on this blog.

I know my postings have been a little less than they usually are, but I hope to change that soon. I am going to get adjusted to our new schedule and I should have a little more time to post. Thank you for reading and for your patience.

Walgreens Diapers

I just wanted to let everyone know you can get some cheap diapers this week at Walgreens. Diapers can be very expensive. I have used these diapers and I have been very happy with them (especially because I got them so cheap). The Walgreens diapers and training pants are on sale this week. The first package is $7.99 and the second is 50% off ($3.99). If you buy 2 packages, the total is $11.98. There is a coupon in the Easy Saver Catalog for $5.00 off 2 packages of diapers. (The Easy Saver Catalog is in the front of the store with the weekly ads.) So, $11.98 - $5.00 = $6.98 for 2 packages.

But that is not all, if you have the coupon book from the pharmacy or if they still have them, you can get an additional $2.00 off each package of diapers. So, $6.98 - $2.00 - $2.00 = $2.98 for 2 packages of diapers.

I went yesterday and got 4 packages of diapers and training pants and paid $7.20 including tax.

Free Movie

Redbox is giving us free movie codes for the month of August, so watch each week for the new code. Today's code is:

Y72LR2

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.

$74 in P&G Coupons

You can take a survey HERE provided by Proctor & Gamble and receive $74 in coupons mailed to you. It isn't that long, less than 10 minutes. It was an easy survey to fill out. I can't wait to get my coupons.

Free Movie Monday

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

H3BL13

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.

Coupons in Sunday's Paper

Have you ever wondered if you should buy a Sunday paper or if you should buy several for the coupons? I found a place that has a coupon preview. You can see which coupons to expect in the upcoming inserts. Our local paper doesn't usually have everything in it. I buy a few St. Louis Post Dispatch papers. I think they have the best coupons around here.

You can see this Sunday's coupon preview HERE.

UPDATE: I got our local paper and some of the coupons were in it. I bought the Post Dispatch on Sunday and there were more coupons in it, but not all were in there. I am not sure if this will be a good resource for us to look at. It may give us false hope of receiving certain coupons.

Would you like me to post the coupon preview again?

Walgreens - 8/6/08

I thought I would post my latest Walgreen's savings. Here is what I got:

2 Special K Cereal @ $2.50 each = $5.00
2 Raisin Bran Crunch @ $2.50 each = $5.00
6 Pop Tarts @ $2.00 each = $12.00 (one is missing I gave away)
2 M&M candies @ $1.48 for 2 (kids already ate them)

So, $5.00 + 5.00 + 12.00 + 1.48 = $23.48

Coupons Used:

2 - $1.00 off 2 cereals = $2.00
3 - $1.00 off 2 Pop Tarts = $3.00
$7.00 Register Reward from last week

So, $23.48 - 2.00 - 3.00 - 7.00 = $11.48 (plus tax)

My total with tax was $11.71.

There was a rebate form in last Sunday's paper for the Kellogg's. I will get $10.00 back from that. I also got $10.00 in Register Rewards to spend next time.