Saving One Coupon At A Time

MIA

2010-02-14T15:53:00.002-05:00

I know I've been MIA lately. So this is what we'll do. If you want to know more about deals or have help finding them, leave me a comment. I'll try to send out deals I've done or seen through my regular email address. Also if you have any questions, I can answer them through there also. It will be much easier for me that way. I'll also hopefully get this site back up and running on a regular basis but I'm not holding my breath for anytime soon.

Stockpiling

2010-01-11T20:11:00.009-05:00

Stockpiling may seem a little odd to people. Maybe even to you. However, there are a lot of good reasons to stockpile. It takes a while to get to the stockpile that you want to have. I haven't made it to my ideal place and I've been couponing pretty faithfully for the last 10 months. Here are a few reasons why stockpiling is such a great idea.

1. It can lower your grocery budget. Stocking through coupons allows your budget to not be so strained.

2. Stockpiling saves you money. You buy when its cheap.

3. Makes it easy to prepare meals on the fly. You won't have to run out to the store before every meal.

4. Helps if you run into a financial harship. You'll have enough to get you through a rough patch.

5. Cuts down on unexpected store runs. When you run out of something, just grab it from your stockpile.

I'm sure there are many more benefits to stockpiling. I know I have seen a lot through our own life. Before I started using coupons and stockpiling, we would use $400+ for groceries, kitchen/laundry supplies, H&B and paper products. After using coupons and stockpiling, I've lowered my budget to $200 and usually don't even use that per month.

We also don't cut corners on food. We still eat a lot of meat, fresh fruit, fresh veggies and coffee. We don't look for only off brand name products, we buy name brand. We still get our nice shampoo and other health and beauty products. We don't limit ourselves to the cheaper stuff.

As you can see in my stockpile pictures, we do great! This is for the beginning of 2010. It will be interesting to see what happens later this year as a lot of my stockpile from last year has depleted. The prices listed are my target price. That doesn't mean I always get there but if I can, I stock up like crazy to try and avoid paying a higher price later on.

Above is under my kitchen sink. Numerous bottles of wipes, cleaners, finish, and bottles of dish soap for roughly $0.50 each or less.

Cabinet of random pastas and a few snacks. Very depleted over the year since the last great deal. Pay less than a dollar per item in this cabinet.

Coffee related supplies, sugar substitute and teas. Coffee usually pay $2.50 or less. Tea's $1 or less and sugar substitute that is in there right now, all for free. But usually have to pay oop for that also.

Pantry filled with goodies, noodles, self-made 100 calorie packs, cooking supplies and breakfast goods.

V8's for $0.50, other snacks for $0.50 a pack or less and baking supplies.

Plastic cups and a dwindling supply of Paper Towels (usually like to get them $0.25 a roll or less but thats proving to be rought lately)

Ziploc baggies ($0.25 or less), Detergent ($2 or less depending on the brand), Fabric Softener sheets (free), aluminum foil ($0.50 or less), Tissue (free)

Cans of soup ($0.50 or less depending on type), Pasta sauce ($1.00 a can), canned veggies (switched to frozen mainly so don't have a target price), BBQ sauce and marinade ($0.25 or less), Salad dressing ($0.25 or less), Jelly ($0.50 or less), random odds and ends

Cereal ($0.50 or less), Pork and Beans (reg price), Chili (cheap), broth (free), canned fruit ($0.50 or less), coffee ($2.50 or less), chinese noodles and french's fried onions (no real target price, paired w/ coupon)

Air fresheners in green box (as close to free as possible, less than $1 each), Toilet paper (ran out of my stockpile. Had it all for free, this time had to pay so no real target price)

And random odds and ends for bathroom. Only target price, soap and toilet bowl cleaner. Free.

Deodorant ($0.25 or less), Toothpaste and toothbrushes (FREE), Shaving cream ($0.25 or less), Soap (FREE), Razors ($2.00 or less), Shampoo, conditioner and body wash ($0.50 or less)

Feminine supplies (FREE to $4.50 a box), Bandaids (FREE), Rolaids (FREE), Chapstick (FREE), Airfresheners ($1 or less), Medicine (as cheap as possible)

My Freebie World!

2010-01-11T19:56:00.003-05:00

I am, absolutely, beyond a doubt, in love with freebies. Here's 5 reasons why I LOVE freebies!

1. They offer you to try a new product.
2. They usually come w/ a coupon, so even if you use the product all the time, you just got a new coupon!
3. They're free!
4. You get coupons for free products or money off
5. They're just too fun!

Here are 2 websites I go to often to find out what is out there. If you sign up for freebies, do yourself a favor and open up another email address specifically as a junk email.

Free Snatcher
Free Sample Freak

Challenge 1/10/10

2010-01-09T17:54:00.002-05:00

I haven't been on here since school started! And school starts again next week. My challenge to myself is to get one helpful post on my blog each week. Lets see if I can do that.

However, this week, I would like to issue a challenge to you. How much can you save this week? Sunday through next Saturday...or you can start with today.

Challenge yourself and see how much you can save by using coupons, holding off on a spur of the moment purchase, sign up for freebies (they usually come with coupons) or whatever else might strike your fancy.

Next, leave me a comment and tell me how you're doing. It can be daily, or it can be at the end of the week. I would LOVE to hear about it.

Super Savings Saturday 1/9

2010-01-09T17:50:00.000-05:00

It seems like I have been MIA for quite a while from posting. Looking at the previous date, I have! 2009 took me by surprise. Life picked up drastically in September with the start of a fully loaded semester of college. I have dropped my load for this next semester that starts in just over a week. And frankly, the deals just haven't been what I've wanted to see.

This week, things looked up. I made some great purchases and really built my stockpile back up. I didn't take any pictures, never quite thought about it.

CVS ran a pretty decent deal and I was able to add to my stockpile. I ended up leaving with a double 20 pk of cottonelle and 2 oust surface and air. After coupons and paying with $11 ECB's, I ended up paying oop $1.33. I saved $23.60 and left with another $10 ECB's for next time.

My only other store I hit up was Harris Teeter. I made 4 transactions at this store, 20 coupons per transaction over a period of 3 days. They are running Super Doubles so its been great! Debating on seeing if I can scrounge up some more coupons to go one last time before it ends.

My detailed list of what I got is down below if you feel like reading. I ended up paying $35.58 for $275.58 worth of stuff.

1 Keebler Right Bites
2 Dawn Foam
4 Special K Cereal
4 Lipton Tea Boxes
1 Nabisco Munch Pak
6 V8 Fusion
1 Electrasol
5 Lance 100 Calorie Packs
5 8pk. Lance Crackers
6 Wet Ones Wipes
4 Ideal Sweetener
1 Gillette Fusion Shaving Cream
2 Stayfree Maxi Pad
1 Herbal Essense Cond.
4 CoffeeMate Creamer
4 Blistex
2 Gatorade
2 Spot Shot
1 Kotex Liners
2 Sun Crystals Sweetener
2 Wholly Guacamole
12 Dannon Yogurt
2 NM Folic Acid
1 20oz. Dt. Pepsi
4 Lipton Soup Mix
2 Yakisoba
2 Lachoy Noodles
2 Dickinson Fruit Spread
3 McCormick Cinnamon
1 McCormick Paprika
2 Oikos Yogurt
2 Bandaid
6 Pasta Roni
2 Lysol Wipes
1 Cookies
1 Ivory Soap 3pk.
4 Special K Cereal Bars
1 Toblerone Chocolate

Thats 108 items! Averages out (after tax) to be .33 cents an item!

Weekly Finals

2009-09-19T16:19:00.002-04:00

My weekly finals ended today and I get to start fresh tomorrow! I came under budget by $8.21 but bought a lot that I didn't need at the moment and stocked up on with good deals.

My oop was $41.79
Before Savings and Q's: $191.58

I saved 78% this week!

My Excitement of the Day!

2009-09-19T16:04:00.002-04:00

I had a very exciting trip today, or trips, to the store. I decided, because I did so great this week with money, today's trip would go on last weeks budget.

I headed on over to SuperFresh. They had a few great deals going on. One was the noodles. We use a lot of them and if you bought ten, you'd get them for $.59each.

10 San Giorgio Noodles
3 Zone Bars
1 Kelly Butter Quarters
4 Campbell's Soup
3 Green Giant Valley Steamers

Total: $43.59
Total OOP (after Savings and Q's): $10.46

Next, I headed back to HT so try my hand at triples again. Many things were out of stock that I wanted so I only used 18 out of my alloted 20 per day.

I also ended up having $5 taken off my bill for a promotion. I wasn't aware that would happen! I thought it had to be all done in one transaction but apparently it pulled from my Wednesday's bill too!

2 Fiber One Bars
3 Chex Mix Bars
1 32oz. Rice
1 8pk. Reeces
1 Dawn
1 Ortega Taco Seasoning
1 Ortega Refried Beans
4 Campbell's Condensed Soup
1 Campbell's Soup in Hand
1 Spray N Wash
1 Starkist Albacore
1 Bumble Bee Albacore
1 Kotex Pads
1 Degree Deo
1 Wonder Bread
2 GG Frozen Vege's.

Total: $51.32
Total OOP (after Savings and Q's): $4.04

My weekly trip

2009-09-16T20:22:00.003-04:00

Well I made a few trips out this week. Its been another one of those weeks where I feel like I'm so disoriented because of everything that has been going on!

Above is today's trip to HT that I made. They are having triples!
I spent $9.39oop (got overcharged .90cents)
Before savings: $56.55

This was Sunday's Trip to CVS. I made 2 transactions, used 8 ECB's and recieved 6 more.
I spent $2.59
Before Savings: $17.35

Also Sunday's trip at Food Lion.
I spent $9.18
Before Savings: $12.79

I also made 2 trips to Safeway for fruit. I spent $3.20 and $1.78 but saved roughly $4-5.

And one to the commissary for milk totaling $1.35 (price went up :-(

Deals and Ad's I love!

2009-09-12T21:10:00.002-04:00

I don't have time to take all of the ads and post the great deals that are going on. So I'd like to send you in the right direction for them!

Southern Savers has deals this week for Walgreens, the Commissary, CVS

Albertson's have a coupon doubler going on. You can find out more about it here @ Frugal Living NW

Be Cents Able has Walmart Deals.

Head on over to Bargain Briana and find Rite Aid and KMart.

Unfortunately, I can't find a Target deal page for the life of me and don't feel up to making one up myself. I'm sorry!

By far, my favorite thing to tell you is tomorrow's paper reportedly has 5 inserts. I get the early Sunday Edition here and they had them. I picked up an extra paper, figuring 3 may be a little much for us at the moment!

2009-09-12T21:03:00.002-04:00

Target is now putting their coupon policy online. Have any questions, just look at it! Better yet, print it off and take it with you when you make your trips to Target in case you have any problems. You can find it Here. I love this because they allow you to use a Target coupon and a Manufacturer coupon on one item! That can create some really good deals!

The policy states:

Target Stores Coupon Policy:

Coupons are a great way to save even more when shopping with us, and it's easy to use them at our stores.

• Target accepts one manufacturer coupon and one Target coupon for the same item (unless prohibited)
• Super Target coupons can be used in any Target store if the store carries the item
• We gladly accept valid internet coupons

Because of the variety of coupons available to our guests, we do have some guidelines for how coupons can be redeemed at Target.

When accepting coupons, we use the following guidelines:

• We accept two kinds of coupons: Target-issued coupons and manufacturer-issued.
• We'll accept one Target coupon and one manufacturer coupon for the same item, unless either coupon prohibits it.
• Coupon amount may be reduced if it exceeds the value of the item after other discounts or coupons are applied.
• We can't give cash back if the face value of a coupon is greater than the purchase value of the item.
• We can't accept coupons from other retailers, or coupons for products not carried in our stores.
• All valid coupons should be presented to the cashier while you're checking out.

SuperFresh

2009-09-12T20:40:00.003-04:00

I've been missing for the past week :-( This makes me sad, but unfortunately, school has gotten the best of me so this blog will probably be very hit and miss for a while. I hope I can still get on weekly though to make a few posts. Make sure to check out the links on the right side of my toolbar. They always have some great posts for saving.

Meanwhile, I made a few trips to the store last week that I'm not getting to since I'm starting a new budget week today.

I ran to SuperFresh and picked up some good deals. They have a mix 'n' match deal going on right now where if you buy 10 of the participating products, you get them for .99cents each. Also, Purex detergent is on sale @ $1.99 each, pair it with a coupon and you've got VERY cheap detergent!

Below is a little more detailed of what I got and the Q's.

Minute Maid Juice (no Q)

2 Smuckers Spreads ($1/2 Q)

2 Pop Secret Popcorn ($1/2 Q)

2 BC Frosting (2 .50Q doubled=FREE)

3 Ziploc (2 .55Q doubled and 1 .40Q doubled=FREE!)

2 Purex Detergent (2 -.35Q doubled = $1.29 each)

1 Newspaper (too many good coupons, had to have another!)

Before Savings: $36.27

OOP: $7.67

Super Fresh

2009-09-05T18:38:00.003-04:00

I HAD to make a trip to Super Fresh today....OK, not really haha. However, I did need the tomato and onion that is in the picture so I decided to pick up some deals while I was at it.

I ended up leaving with WonderBread CS(after Club Savings) $1.33-.55Q doubled
Betty Crocker Warm Delights CS $1.91-.50Q doubled
2 Mentos Gum $1.49x2-.55Q doubled x 2
1 AC Diet Cola CS $.89
1 Medium Onion $.53
1 Roma Tomato $.48
3 Peaches CS $1.13
2 Pears CS $1.03
1 Chock Full O Nuts CS $3.00-.75Q double

Before CS and Coupons: $18.61
OOP: $7.66

Thats not too bad for mainly produce in my opinion!

My Recent Freebies

2009-09-05T18:22:00.003-04:00

I had some really good freebies come in my mailbox this week. I usually get plenty of samples throughout the week, and the hubby makes fun of me for it. You saw my stash in my stockpile pictures. But this one, I REALLY loved!

I got a rebate I sent in for Alexia Snacks which came in the form of a free coupon.

I also got the P&G coupon book! It has some great coupons in it but the ones I usually love are the Dawn coupons! They work great when HT has super doubles or triples and always means some FREE dish soap!

I also sent in for the Nestle Calendar which came with coupons. They have some I love for Laffy Tafft, Edy's Dibs, CoffeMate and AquaPod Water.

It just shows that you should do every free sample you come across! You never know what great gift you'll get!

Weekly Finals

2009-09-05T14:44:00.002-04:00

I made another trip that isn't added onto my blog. I never had time. It was at Food Lion and I used the $5/$20 coupon again. I got another 4+lbs. of Pork Ribs and 2+lbs. of Boneless Chicken.

Before MVP and Q: $20.19
Total OOP: $3.01

Along with that purchase, since the last time I posted a weekly final, I ran to FL 3 other times found Here, Here, Here I went to SuperFresh once and a trip to Safeway and the Commissary

Total weekly purchases before savings: $133.33
Total OOP: $42.76
Total savings of 68%

Don't forget, this included nearly 9lbs. of Pork Ribs, 2lbs. of Pork Chops, over 10lbs. of Perdue Boneless Chicken, a pound of Natural Chicken, and over 6lbs. of Ground Beef.

Food Lion Trip #2

2009-09-02T22:38:00.004-04:00

I made another trip to use another $5/20 meat purchase tonight. My freezer is getting ready to bust at the seams again even though I just did my wifely duty and opened up more room by finishing off a bucket of ice cream :-) Needless to say, I might be able to do one more trip but that will probably be it.

However, I got 4.84 lbs. of Pork Country Ribs and another 2.21lbs. of Perdue Chicken Breast (boneless).

Before Q's or MVP card, the total was $20.66

OOP after was $3.38

For a total savings of 84%

I know I can do this on other food but whenever I can get this high of a savings on meat, I just LOVE it!

Food Lion

2009-09-02T19:41:00.003-04:00

My excitement hit today on my way home from work. The new ad's for Food Lion just changed over and they have Perdue Chicken for $1.67lb! I also knew there was a FLIP out there for $5/20 purchase of meat!

So I went today. Had a slight run in with the cashier, but nothing too big. I will be trying again later tonight at another store and hopefully will get another deal. I'm very excited about this week in the meat department even though I need to be a bit careful money wise!

I got 4.08lbs. Perdue Chicken Breast
2.73lbs. Bananas

Total price: $21.69

But how much did I spend?! After my MVP card and the $5/20 FLIP......*drum roll*....

OOP: $3.15

That is a savings of 84% on meat!

I am quite excited! Is it noticeable!?

2009-08-31T19:52:00.005-04:00

Here is my work for all to see. You may laugh at me, want to do what I have done or wonder about me. Believe me, I have gotten them all but mainly laugh at me. Yeah...I may be crazy. I may enjoy doing what I do and seeing what I can save but I really, really enjoy it.

Below is a list and pictures of my stockpile. It took me a while to build it up but now that I have, I solely live on $200 a month for 2 people. This includes all food, drinks, toiletries, health and beauty, kitchen and laundry, and paper products.

I do this by pairing up my Q's with sales and stocking up when it hits rock bottom prices. I now have a set price that I won't spend over on certain items. I also take advantage of doubling coupons and BOGO items. Many stores will only charge you have price if you don't want 2 items. Just ask. And pair that with a Q and bingo, that much cheaper. Then do it again in another transaction if you want more!

I also will occassionally go without buying for a week except the staples. IE. Deli Meat, Fruit, Yogurt (but I usually stock up and buy once a month), milk and Eggs.

Take a look at what I've done. I get plenty of laughs from my husband, but he then later tells me he loves what I do and how I really can stretch our money and still not live without. We have everything we need and then some as you can see.

Here is my small pantry :-( I wish I had more room but I'm sure the hubby is glad I don't :-)

Another picture of that same pantry. All my 100 cal snacks I dump into this container to conserve space. Many Sugar free Jellos, pudding, 6 muffin mixes, 2 frosting, 2 cake packages and 7 brownies.

19 BBQ sauces and marinades (All less than .25cents each), an assortment of paper plates, plastic cups and silverware, and fruit in gel (Decided to try them out when I got them free at HT.

4 boxes of Aluminum Foil, 1 Saran Wrap, 2 boxes of plast baggies, 2 bags/boxes of Brown Sugar and one large tupperware full of it, 2 Flour, 1 Crisco, 1 Powdered Sugar and 1 Sugar.

This is one of my favorite sections :-) 12 Shampoo/Conditioners. Many Razors, toothbrushes, floss, and toothpaste in the green box, 8 Shaving cream, 9 Deodorants behind, and other numerous mouth care.

Box of Samples from the mail, 6 Renuzit Adjustables, 2 Sense and Spray, 1 Glade Candle

4 Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner (.25cents or less), 20 rolls TP (smaller than usual)

6 packs pantiliners, 2 boxes tampons (usually at least 3), 2 Always Pads (also low)

7 boxes cereal (all $1 or less), 4 Suddenly Salad, 1 Quaker Oats, 1 box and jar of Ziti noodles, 5 Spaghetti Sauce, 4 spaghetti noodles, 1 Crouton, 5lb. bag potatoes, 5 corn, 3 dressing, pickles, mustard, worstershire sauce...

More Aluminum Foil, More Saran Wrap, More Bags....

Rice Products, more spaghetti and linguine noodles, Breakfast stuff, pancake mix, syrup, etc...

3 Bags chips (.50 or less), Microwave popcorn, rice cakes

7 Hamburger Helper, 8 Pasta Sides, 2 Peanut Butter, 2 Cream of Mushroom Soup, 4 Rice packs, 4 Albacore Tuna, 2 Lipton Recipes, 3 Spaghetti (more, I know), 4 Hormel Compleats, 3 corn (more), 4 Chili, 6 Soup, 2 Pork N Beans....

More baking supplies and coffee stuff....

Soooooo much in the freezer! Its packed! Half is meat, other is red peppers, 4 butter, baked bread, 6 bags of shredded cheese.....

5 packs of hot dogs, 2 juice, 4 sausage....and more :-)

30 bottles of water, 3 12pk Sodas, Gallon Vege oil, 24 chips (from work :-)

6 soda's, 2 juice, 1 smart water.

So enjoy my stockpile. Feel free to laugh or make comments or whatever you will :-)

Safeway and the Commissary

2009-08-29T17:57:00.003-04:00

I'm making a pot roast this week so I couldn't go without having potatoes so I ran out to the post to grab a 5lb. bag of white potatoes.

After surcharge: $2.10

Also, after posting my favorite deals from Safeway, I couldn't not make a trip there! So I went. I left with:

6.13lbs. of 80% Lean Ground Beef
2lbs. of Red Grapes

Total before Club Card Savings: $28.61
Total after Savings: $5.31

Total spent for the week: $33.22

(I also used the $1.75 that was overcharged at Food Lion which is why my card total is a little lower)

Food Lion

2009-08-29T17:41:00.003-04:00

Took advantage of a few deals and FLIP's today. I used the $5/$20 meat purchase and $1/3 FL soda's. I also used a Q for $1/4 Martha White Muffins.

I got 6 FL 2lt. Soda
2.07lbs. Pork
.97lbs. Natural Chicken Breasts
2.01lbs. Perdue Chicken
3.5lbs. Bananas
1lbs. Deli Ham
4 Martha White Muffins

Total before Savings: $37.23
Total after Savings: $22.45

I was also overcharged $1.89 for the meat so got that back in cash and put it on another purchase.

Total for the week: $25.81

Super Fresh

2009-08-29T17:37:00.002-04:00

Starting another week of shopping. College started back up so my weekly shopping trips are going to be hard so the weekend it is! I picked up some staples today and some other good deals that I couldn't pas up.

SuperFresh had peppers on sale.

Quick and easy trip but I got one head of lettuce and 1.59lbs of Red Pepper.

Before Card: $4.95
After Card OOP: $3.36

Total spent for the week: $3.36

Weekly Spending

2009-08-29T17:02:00.002-04:00

I did pretty well on keeping my goal of only spending on items that were staples and only if their was a great deal. There was a great run at Harris Teeter. I was only able to go once because I came up a little short for the month. I didn't take into account the 5 weeks so I stretched $200 from 4 to 5 weeks. Worked well for me and I still had extra money for this week which you will see my purchases in my next posts.

My weekly totals were:

Before Savings: $87.00
After Savings: $21.17
% for the week Savings: 76%

My totals are a little off this week because I forgot to write down my before savings amount on 3 small purchases.

The links can be found here @ A Few Trips and @ Harris Teeter.

Swagbucks

2009-08-26T14:54:00.003-04:00

Just Click on the Link above and get started on earning!

I LOVE this site. I really do. Here's a shameless plug to try and get you to sign up for Swagbucks.

What Swagbucks is?
Swagbucks is a search engine powered by google. All you do is use this site instead of another search engine.

How do you earn?
You earn by searching and using swagbucks. You type in your search, go to your page. Thats all you do. And occassionally, you will earn what they call a swagbuck just by searching. Add these swagbucks up and you can buy prizes. But no money comes out of your own pocket, ever!

Is there a catch?
No! I've been using this for quite a few months. I do all my searches in this site. Sometimes I earn, sometimes I don't. But why not just use this as a search engine and earn money for something you do on a daily basis?

Why I love it?
I LOVE swagbucks because its doing what I usually do but I earn for it. So far, I've managed to buy quite a few products off amazon.com and I didn't have to pay a dime out of my own pocket. How fantastic is that?!

Just Click on the Link below and get started on earning!

FREE Starbucks Drink!

2009-08-26T14:37:00.002-04:00

I just got very, very excited and its all thanks to Jen @ Thrifty Northwest Mom!

I just read on her blog that Starbucks is now offering a FREE birthday drink to rewards members on or around their birthday!

This is great for me because my birthday hasn't happened this year yet and hits in the ICY winter months here on the East Coast so a hot drink is very welcomed!

Go to Starbucks website here and create a new account or update your profile and they'll send you a coupon for a FREE drink around your birthday.

HAPPY DRINKING!

Where Do You Find Your Coupons?

2009-08-26T14:22:00.002-04:00

I saw this post over at BeCentsAble's blog.

I enjoyed reading their 12 sources for collecting coupons.

Katherine provides coupon links for printables, organic, coupons by request and e-coupons.

Head on over and check out the link. It proved useful to me, so I'd like to pass it along.

Safeway 8/26-9/1

2009-08-26T14:05:00.000-04:00

Yellow Nectarines $.77lb

80% Lean Ground Beef $.99lb. (This is a GREAT price!)

Fresh Perdue Whole Chicken $.99lb.

Eating Right 1lb. Mini Carrotts $1.00

2lt. Pepsi Products $.99

Green Giant Vegetables $.69

Angel Soft or Sparkle Paper Towels $.99 (think there is a coupon out there for both)

SUPER COUPONS:
Cheez-it $1.49
San Giorgio Pasta $.69

Food Lion 8/26-9/1

2009-08-26T13:40:00.002-04:00

Here's some Food Lion highlights for the week of 8/26 - 9/1. Let me know if you see any others that I've missed.

Chicken Leg Quarters $0.59lb.

Green Grapes $0.99lb.

Martha White Muffin Mix BOGO $1.05 each.
There is also a $1/4Q out there. So after BOGO and Q, its $1.10 or $.27 each.

Canadian Maple Ham BOGO $5.99lb. (Rings up half price, so $3 a lb.)

New York Texas Toast BOGO $2.99 and a .50Q = $1each

Harris Teeter- Super Doubles!

2009-08-26T13:27:00.002-04:00

Harris Teeter has Super Doubles running again. It started today and will run until Tuesday. They double 20 coupons per day up to $1.98 and depending on the store, only allow 2 IP's per purchase.

I wasn't going to spend anything else this week besides the staples....Then I stumbled across HT's doubles which I'm now wishing I hadn't. I made a trip today. Might not make it back again because my food budget is a bit low :-( Grr. But I got:

1 Fruit2o
2 Dawn Hand Renewal
2 Hormel Compleats
1 Dole Fruit in Gel
1 Ken's Marinade
3 Jello Gelatin mix
2 100 Cal Nabisco
1 Uncle Ben Rice
2 Barilla Whole Wheat
1 24pk. Deer Park Water
1 Secret Deo
1 Degree Men Deo
1 Herbal Essense Shampoo
1 Clearasil Pads
1 Sure Deo for Men
1 Pert Plus for Men
2 Heluva Good Cheese
1 Sorrento String Cheese

Total Before Savings: $70.11

Minus Vic Savings: $17.90

Minus Coupon Savings: $37.93

Total OOP: $14.28 after .96tax

Savings of: 80%

I'm usually not too happy with $14 on a triple/double event but lately I've been having to talk myself down and tell myself its alright! I ended up getting some great items that are usually pretty costly. The Deer Park they originally sell for $6.99. After BOGO and the coupon, I got the 24pk. for $1.49. This is how I talk myself down, you see?!

A few trips!

2009-08-26T13:23:00.003-04:00

I've been slacking again. But I warned you. From now on, I'm probably only going to post one day unless you all get lucky. But the day that I do post, I will try to make quite a few and let you know whats going on out in the bargain world.

My goal this week was to only buy items that were needed directly for the week unless I found anything free. The blog posted right after proved I couldn't do it. But at least one trip to Super Doubles is usually too good to pass up.

I made a trip to Food Lion and got a pound of cooked deli ham and 2.77lbs. of bananas for $4.31.

I also ran to SuperFresh to pick up 2lbs. of grapes for $1.98.

I found a deal too good to pass up, so I ran to CVS and got one Glade Lasting Impressions and one Glade Sense and Spray. They are on sale until Saturday night for 2/$10. I also had a coupon for $4 off one and $3 off another and recieved $3 by spending $10 on Glade products. I also used $3ECB to make this purchase using $.60 oop and recieveing my $3ECB's back.

Safeway 8/19- 8/25

2009-08-20T15:00:00.003-04:00

Here are my highlights for Safeway this week. Again, my store doubles up to .99 but its another YMMV thing. If you see any other highlights that I haven't, please comment!

72 Hour Sale 8/21-8/23

Lays Potato Chips $1.77
Pork Loin Ribs $2.99lb.
Pillsbury Brownies/Cake Mix $.79
Santa Sweets Grape Tomatoes $.99each

8/19-8/25

Assorted Pork Chops .99lb.

Popsicle Novelities Buy any 3, Save $3. Starting at $1.49each

Wonder and Hostess Mix and Match - Super Price Coupon in paper for $1.79

Honeycomb Cereal - Super Price Coupon - $.99

Lucerne Eggs - Super Price Coupon - $.99

Safeway Trash Bags - Super Price Coupon - $2.99

Iceberg Lettuce - Super Price Coupon - $.69

4 Lb. Box Yellow Peaches - Super Price Coupon - $2.99

SuperFresh Highlights 8/21-8/27

2009-08-20T14:53:00.002-04:00

Here are some week long highlights of SuperFresh. Remember they also double Q's up to $.99 everyday of the week.

Xtra Laundry Det. .99 wyb of addtl. $15 purchase (clip coupon)

Red Seedless Grapes .99lb.

Ground Beef Family Pack 1/2off

There aren't too many deals that strike my attention this week. Is anyone else seeing anything I'm not?

Weekly Finals

2009-08-20T14:42:00.002-04:00

My goodness what is happening to me! I just got my weekly totals ready, thinking it was Friday....well its Thursday. Oh well, this has been happening all week! Well my weekly finals were a bit over. I got a little bit shopper crazy. But I didn't pull from any account other than my food so that is always good! I made trips to the commissary, Harris Teeter, SuperFresh and CVS.

My shopping trips can be found Here and Here.

My total OOP was: $62.52
Total before savings: $149.25
Percentage of savings: 58%

Military Commissary

2009-08-20T14:26:00.002-04:00

Well, I made it out to the commissary today. Had to run a few errands there so hit up the commissary and picked up a few staples we were out of, some things I got free, and things we'll use soon.....OK, maybe I just wanted to spend, but I have a plan for next week.

Next week, with school starting, my plan is to get into that rhythm, try and update my blog with other posts and other do the staples for groceries and deli meat and fruit for lunches.

However, today I did alright. I picked up my staples of milk, eggs and a gallon of vegetable oil (I have found this is cheaper if you use a lot like we do).

I also grabbed, for free, 2 Glade Soy Joy candles, 1 Fisher snack mix and 2 A1 Marinade.

Other things I needed for dinners in the future, diet snacks, or got for cheap were 2 Italian Ice packs, 1 Mission tortillas, 3 16oz. Spaghetti noodles, 2 Cream of mushroom soup, 1.78lbs Turkey legs, and 1.78lbs. Roast.

For all of this, after surcharge, I spent $24.83

Before Q's was $35.47

Considering most items are usually cheaper at the commissary, especially meat and dairy, I feel like I did pretty decent.

Grocery Trips

2009-08-18T18:35:00.004-04:00

I have been missing again for a few days. Been trying to name change, send out announcements, and many other numerous things.

I did go to a few stores since the last I wrote. I went to SuperFresh (I don't have a picture), and got 20 Dannon Light N Fit yogurts, 2 AC diet cola 2Lt., 2 liquid CoffeeMate creamer, and one newspaper. I ended up paying for the newspaper in cash and spent $11.68 OOP. Before savings and coupons (I also just noticed I forgot one), it would have been $23.06.

CVS was another on my list this week. I got 4 Pepsi product 12 pks, 1 Listerine 1lt., 1 Head N Shoulders Shampoo, 1 Colgate MaxFresh toothpaste and one super blow pop to put me over $25 before taxes.

I used 2 $1Q's, 1 $.50Q, 2 ECB's for $3 and $4 and a $5/$25 CVS coupon.

Total OOP was $11.89.
Before Savings and Q's was $37.65

Lastly was Harris Teeter. I decided to try my hand at triples again and still think Super Doubles is better, at least for my household.

I was able to get:
2 Mt. Olive products
3 Movie Candy
1lb. deli Turkey
2 50ft. Reynolds wrap
2 BC Brownie Mix
2 BC Suddenly Salad
2 Dial Hand Soap
1 Lysol Toilet Bowl
2 2ct. Renuzit
1 Ziploc Container
1 36ct. Playtex
2 Garnier Fructis
1 Pepperidge Farm Bread
1 Kraft Shredded Cheese

OOP: $24.12
Before Savings: $53.07

Total for the week: $47.69

I was also over about $30 last week so I have extra and may make a trip to the commissary to pick up a few staples we need on Thursday

Coupon Double/Triples

2009-08-14T23:49:00.003-04:00

I love coupons! Could you guess? I also LOVE when a store does doubles or triples. Meaning they'll double or triple the value of your coupon. I thrive on that and do some of my best stocking up when I can get items for minuscule prices. Who doubles or triples around you?

I know who doubles or triples around the MD area but I'd love to know other areas so we can help each other out. Please post if you know of any!

KMART - Doubles up to $2.00, occasionally (hit and miss here in MD)

SUPERFRESH - Doubles up to $0.99 daily, Triples up to $0.99 occasionally. I have also seen doubles or $1.00 at least once since I got involved in couponing.

SHOPPERS - Doubles up to $0.99 daily, occasional triples.

HARRIS TEETER - Doubles up to $0.99 daily, occasional triples up to $0.99 and Super Doubles up to $1.98

SAFEWAY - Doubles up to $0.99 daily here in MD.

GIANT - Doubles up to $0.99 daily in MD

Wedding Day

2009-08-14T16:39:00.001-04:00

Here is one of the reasons why I have disappeared!

But I am back, and hopefully won't be so sporadic with my posts anymore.

August 13th was the day if anyone wanted to know :-)

Good Posts

2009-08-14T16:32:00.003-04:00

And again, I disappeared! However, I did warn you! And here's another warning, the college starts up again in a week, and after that, my posts will become less again but I will try my best!

Heard from Jenny at Southern Savers, you can get a free sample of Burt's Bee's Natural Acne Solutions along with a $2.00 coupon!

The CVS weekly ad is also up at Southern Savers. I'm still debating if I will head on over this week to use my $5 off $25Q or not. We'll see.

2009-08-12T19:23:00.003-04:00

Took a HT triples trip today. I've gotta admit, I definitely like the Super Doubles better and not sure I'll be back this time again. I did a decent trip though. I got 25 items for $12.11 after tax. Below are what I got itemized.

3 Kraft Shredded Cheese $1.79-.50Q*3 = .29each
1 Lever 2000 Soap $1.99-.50Q*3 = .49each
4 BC Supreme Brownie Mix $2.00(*4)-.75/2Q*3(*2) = .87each
1 Fiber One Poptarts $2.39-.75Q*3 = .14each
1 BC Cookie Mix $1.67-.40Q*3 = .47each
2 Suddenly Salad $1.50(*2)-.50/2Q* = .75each
1 Ziploc Containers $1.82
1 Edge Shaving Cream $2.79-.75*3= .54each
1 Gum Proxy Brush $2.19
1 Gum Toothbrush $1.99-.75*3=FREE
1 Sure Deodorant $2.59-.75*3= .34each
1 Pepperidge Farm bread $1.99-.55*3= .34each
3 Pillsbury Grands $.84(*3)-.40*3= .43each
1 Land O Lakes Butter $2.29-.55*3= .64each
1 Borden Sensations Cheese $1.99
1 Hormel Pepperoni $2.29-.55*3= .64each

Weekly Finals

2009-08-07T11:49:00.002-04:00

My weekly finals can be found at Military Commissary, CVS and SuperFresh.

The totals for my week before savings: $99.11

Totals for the week after Savings: $55.85

Percentage of savings: 44%

Not my best week, but savings is savings!

SuperFresh

2009-08-07T11:39:00.002-04:00

I ran to SuperFresh today to do my last shopping of the week. We're leaving later today for the weekend so picked up some stuff to take and went a little over my budget. I'm pulling it from next weeks though.

I only had 1 Q today and I got overcharged for the ham but didn't go back to get it switched because I didn't want to deal with it today. My list of items were:

2 Pepsi 2lt. Products $1each
2 Coffee Mate Creamer 2/$5 + $1Q
1 International Delight Creamer $1each
1 4 Ct. Hoagie Roll $1.99
1 Cheeze it $1.74
1/4lb American cheese $.81
1/2lb. Ham $2.07
2.88lb. Peaches $2.85
.87 lb Plums $1.30

Total before Qs and card: $28.44
Total after: $17.88

Total over budget: $5.85

Don't forget I've been under budget a lot lately so I'm still doing well!

8/9 Insert Preview

2009-08-06T12:16:00.002-04:00

This Sunday, 8/09 there will be 3 inserts in your Sunday Paper - (2) Smart Source & (1) Red Plum.

Remember to always buy the biggest paper your area has available.

Below are the highlights for me this week. Want to know about all of the coupons? Head to Southern Savers to get the full preview.

Smart Source 8/9

$1/1 Alexia Crunchy Snacks - (x9/30)
$1/1 Ban Clinical Defense Roll-on - (x10/10)
$3/1 Bic Soleil Refillable Razor Handle or Cartridge Refills 4pk or 8pk - (x9/20)
$1/1 Colgate Total Advanced Whitening, or Advanced Clean, Toothpaste, 4.0oz+ - (x8/29)
.60/1 Dannon Light & Fit Nonfat Yogurt, 6pk – (x9/30)
$2/2 Kraft Mayo, 24oz+ - (x9/9)
$1/1 Mission Flour or Corn Tortillas - (x9/20)

Smart Source #2 – General Mills Everyday Saver

.50/1 Betty Crocker Warm Delights Bowls or Mini Bowls – (x10/3)
.50/2 Chex Mix or Chex 100 Calorie Snack, 4.5oz+ - (x10/3)

Red Plum 8/9

.40/1 Frigo Cheese Heads String Cheese, 10oz+ - (x11/30)
.55/1 GUM Accessory (excludes Soft-Picks) – (x10/31)
.75/1 GUM Toothbrush – (x10/31)
$1/2 Kraft, Cracker Barrel or Polly-O Natural Cheese (Shreds, Chunks, Slices or Snacking) - (x9/15)
$1/1 Starbucks Ice Cream Pint - (x10/1)

Free Scope Sample Kit

2009-08-06T09:55:00.002-04:00

Here's a great new Scope freebie from Walmart.com that includes the new Scope Outlast Rinse, Crest plus Scope Outlast Paste and an Oral-B Floss Pick with Scope Outlast.

Thanks goes to One day, One dollar at a time.

Rumors

2009-08-06T09:47:00.004-04:00

Its been a quiet week here. I haven't made it to the stores. Don't really have much money for them right now. Worked a few very long days and crashed once I got home and heading to the beach for the weekend, so again, its going to be a slow weekend on the blog.

I am breaking my "frugal ways" that I have been practicing to go get my nails done, a new swim suit top and possibly get my hair cut. Everyone needs to break their ways every once in a while and the man wants me to start treating myself to getting my nails done because he knows I love it. Great guy :-)

I noticed over at Southern Savers that Bloom is doing triples until the 18th. So check your store and see if they are one of them.

There is also a rumor out there that Harris Teeter will be doing either Super Doubles or Triples in the near future! So be excited for that. I'm waiting on another one for SuperFresh but haven't heard anything just yet.

2009-08-02T15:56:00.003-04:00

My trip to CVS wasn't the best but used on things we would use. I had $5ECB's to roll. I ended up getting:

4 12packs Pepsi Products
1 Gillette Fusion Razor
1 Gillette Fusion Body Wash (FREE wyb of Razor)

I used a $4/20 Q along with my $5 ECB's

Total before Q's and savings: $35.70

Total OOP: $13.25

Recieved: 7ECB's to roll

Total Left for the week: $12.03

Military Commissary

2009-08-02T15:37:00.003-04:00

I got everything for my week with last month's budget so figured I wouldn't have to do any shopping. Big mistake. I didn't have to do any shopping. But I wanted to and spent a decent amount. Oops!

I started with $210 this month. A few items were bought over the weekend for dinner while the man's sister was here. Those purchases were for $3.93 and $1.59 at Superfresh leaving me with $204.48 for the month, $50 a week.

The man needed a haircut so I perused the commissary. I ended up coming out with products we would need in a while but after the trip have been put on a temporary ban of buying any freezer items. :-) I bought:

2 San Giorgino Ziti noodles
3 Knorr Noodles sides ($1/3 Q)
2 KY ($1.85 x 2Q = .35each)
2 Candy Bars ($1/2Q =FREE)
2 Oscar Mayer Turkey Franks ($1/2Q = .50each)
1 1.66lb. Beef Roast
1 1.83lbs. Steak
2 Apple Hardwood Bacon
1 Presto cling wrap
1 Presto Freezer bags (.75/2 Mil Q)
3 Jack Daniels Steak Sauce ($1/2 and $1/1Q = .42each)
4 Del Monte Spaghetti Sauce = .59each
3 Sugar Free Jello ($1/3Q)
1 Luigi's Italian Ice

Before Qs: $34.97
After Q's and Surcharge: $24.72

Total left for weekly budget: $25.28

July Finals

2009-07-30T13:55:00.003-04:00

Since tomorrow is the 31st, next time I use my food budget account, it will be reset. So the start of August will start with $210 instead of $200 because of the $10 leftover in July. I also do my weeks differently so the months may not always correspond with the weeks. So there is a slight difference with my numbers down below but items with a receipt in July are listed.

My monthly totals before savings were: $557.52

My oop for the month was: $176.60

For a percentage savings for a month of: 68%

Weekly Finals

2009-07-30T13:38:00.004-04:00

Today is going to be the end of my food budget week. We have everything we need and I usually start my week over on Saturday and since we get paid tomorrow, it will reset. I also won't be using the food budget tomorrow, that I am sure of. My totals for the week were spread around to many different stores this week. You can find the stores I went to through these links. They were CVS, SuperFresh, Military Commissary, Safeway and Food Lion. My weekly totals before savings were: $140.99 My OOP totaled: $53.70 For a total savings percentage of: 62% I did go over this week, but I had leftover money from the rest of this month that made it ok. I did not pull from any other accounts.

Food Lion 7/30

2009-07-30T13:28:00.003-04:00

Food Lion was also a great trip today. I got more to go for next weeks lunches which usually would come out of the August budget...but came out of July. For that, I am proud.

I ended up with -

1.78lbs. Cherries (used a $1 Guiding Stars Q)
2 Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls
1 Golden Layer Rolls (.75/3 MQ)
1 Jamestown Bacon (tonight's dinner)
2.22lbs. Deli Turkey (used $3/$10 deli purchase)

Total before Card and Q's: $28.23
Total OOP: $8.97

Used up the rest of the weekly budget, but had some extra for the July month budget. Overall, ended up with $10.00 even.

Don't forget, I use $200 a month for toiletries, paper products, food, kitchen and laundry, etc. Also, whatever is not used at the end of the month transfers to the next and I just put in $200 into whatever is left in the account. I also use a separate account for just this to make sure nothing gets confused.

Safeway Run

2009-07-30T13:21:00.002-04:00

Finishing up my monthly shopping budget. Tried to stick under the weeks and have some extra money for next month. Didn't quite work but I have a reason for that! The reason being.......I shopped already for next weeks lunches!! I'm proud of that. And even so, I didn't go over by much as of right now. I still have a few bucks in my food account that will transfer over to the start of April.

Today at Safeway, I took advantage of a few deals.

I got 32oz. Shredded Mozzarella cheese
1 Loaf French Bread (used a safeway.com coupon for $1.00 off)
1 Iceberg Lettuce
4 Red Mango's (used a safeway.com coupon for .50 off)
2 Pints Blueberries

Total before Club Card and Q's: $24.95
Total oop: $9.15

Total left in weekly budget: $5.27

Sunday 8/2 Coupon Preview

2009-07-28T18:40:00.002-04:00

This Sunday's coupon preview can be found Here.

Remember that your city may be different. The prices may vary but this will give you an idea if you want to have more than one copy of your Sunday paper.

Some highlights to me are:

Gillette Fusion Cartridge's $4 off
SatinCare Shave Gel .55 off
Pert Plus for Men $1.50 off (great for HT super doubles)
Ragu .75/2 off
Knorr Rice and Pasta Sides .50/2
All Detergent $1 off

Military Commissary

2009-07-26T19:28:00.002-04:00

For the third store today, we picked up a few items we needed....and a few we didn't. Ooops! But it all fit in our budget, and it was cheap enough that I thought it was a good idea. We got:

20 Dannon Light N Fit (the man eats a lot of these! But will last 4 work weeks...hopefully) .39each - 2 $1/10 Qs
1 Pudding Snacks, diet style = .75
1 100 Cal Chex Mix snacks =1.49 - .75Mil Q
1 Alexia Onion Snacks = 1.79 - 1Q
1 Fisher Cashews = 2.01 - 1Q
2 Candy bars = .51 and .43
1 Electrosal = 2.69 - 2.50Q
2 Land O Lakes Spreadable butter = 1.39each - $1/2Q
1 Butter Quarters = 2.47
1 Alexia Onion rings = 2.19 - 1.00Q
2 Oscar Mayer Turkey Dogs = 1.00 each - $1/2Q
2 Blue Ribbon Bread = 1.12each
1 Package Ground Beef @1.59lb -= 5.34

Total Before Q's =
Total after Q's= $25.96

Left in budget for the week: $14.42

I also have an Alexia Try Me Free Offer that I will be sending in to get a free one! Yay! They were good too!

I have to kick myself! I didn't bring my coupon book today to save the man from hating me for shopping too long! Well I should have brought it. I went in and 75sq ft. Reynolds wrap was on sale for $1.06! And I had 2 $1Q's! I came home and looked and those Q's expired today :-( So no sending him tomorrow to get some 6 cent wrap!

SuperFresh

2009-07-26T19:09:00.002-04:00

SuperFresh gave me red peppers today! I'm excited. We leave some out fresh for sandwiches and freeze the extra for adding to meals or again, for sandwiches.

They were on sale for .99lb which is the cheapest you can get around here. I bought 3 decent sized totaling 1.59lbs.

Total before savings: $3.16
Total after: $1.57

Left in the budget for the week: $40.38

CVS shopping trip

2009-07-26T18:58:00.002-04:00

Did 2 transactions at CVS today. These prices are after sales, totals before sales.

Transaction 1:

1 Quattro Titanium 4ct +2bonus refills 8.99 - 4Q
2 Tot Staplers .99each
1 Pilot Pens .99each
1 Colgate Advanced 2.88each - 1Q
1 Greeting Card 2.99each

Total before sales: $25.54
Total after sales and Q's: $12.83 + .47tax

Paid with $10 ECB's and $3.30 oop
Received $6.97 in ECB's

Transaction 2:

3 single candy bars 3/$2 - 1Q
2 M&M bags 4.00 each - 1Q
4 Mentos Gum 1.oo each - .55x4Q
1 Hershey's 8 ct. 1.00 each

Total before sales: $22.90
Total after sales and Q's: $10.80 + .91tax

Paid with $6.97 ECB's and $4.75 oop
Received $5.00 in ECB's

Total left in weekly budget: $41.95

There was also left over money in last weeks budget not added into this weeks.

Cheap Movie Tickets

2009-07-25T18:36:00.002-04:00

A while back I found out about Fandango's promotion they are doing right now. We are heading to the movie's tonight and I realized, I should let EVERYONE know!

Fandango has a deal running that if you have a Visa Signature card, you get one free ticket a month. We have been using this religiously each month once we found out one of our credit cards is just that. Sticking with my money ways, I turn right around and pay the credit card as if we just used cash.

Go to Fandango and find the Visa Signature promotion. If you're not sure if your card is one, they give you a place to type in the first 6 digits.

Buy one, get one FREE! Can't get any better than that at the movies!

Weekly Totals

2009-07-24T14:14:00.002-04:00

My weekly totals between 2 stores and an online purchase were:

Before Savings: $170.29
OOP: $37.54
Percentage Saved: 78%

You can find my shopping trips Here and Here.

Harris Teeter Super Doubles

2009-07-23T18:57:00.003-04:00

My excitement began and promptly (or it should), stop after today. I have come close to running out of cupboard space and even though I'm getting everything for so cheap, my apartment can't hold too much more and the man has agreed, its time to slow down :-( BUT, I had a great trip today at Harris Teeter Super Doubles! I got things we would use and that were cheap. Because we don't live very closely to the store, the man went with me today and we got to use 40 coupons.

Transaction #1:

2- 6 pack Deer Park Water
2- Smart Water
2- Turkey Hill Tea
2- Planters Nuts
2- Skintimate
1- Hungry Jack Syrup
1- Rubbermaid container
1- Starbucks Frappacino
1- Ideal Sweetener
1- Hormel Compleats
2- Lipton Tea
2- Lipton Recipe Secrets
2- Quaker Chewy Bars
1- Hefty Fresh Extend Bags
2- Degree Deo
1- Pert Plus for men
1- Kotex pads
1- Extra Gum
1- Aquafresh Toothpaste
1- Blue Bunny Ice Cream (in last picture)

Total before coupons and VIC: $74.77
Total oop: $11.55
Transaction #2:

2- 6 pack Deer Park Water
2- Smart Water
2- Skintimate
1- Rubbermaid container
1- Starbucks Frappacino
2- Ideal Sweetener
2- Quaker Chewy Bars
1- Degree Deo
1- Kotex pads
3- Zatarain's
2- Grande Torilla Chips
1- Krunchers Chips
1- GUM accessory
1- Uncle Ben's Ready Rice
1- Buitoni Pasta
1- Blue Bunny Ice Cream (in last picture)

Total Before Q's and VIC: $82.09
Total OOP: $14.56

Total for both before Q's and VIC: $156.86
Total for both OOP: $26.11
Total Savings: 83%

Left in budget to date: $12.46

Busy Week!

2009-07-21T14:53:00.002-04:00

What a busy week! Time has been crazy but as of today, it will be settling down until college classes start back up at the end of the week. My finances have been CRAZY with all the visitors in this month. I'm afraid to even look! This week however, I started off my $50 budget picking up just a few things that I actually needed.

Military Commissary:
2 Hellman's Mayo = 2.49each - $1/2Q
1 Half Gallon Milk = .96
1 All Detergent 32 ld = 3.99 - $1Q

Total 8.43 after .60 surcharge
Total left: $41.57

Also, just made a purchase off Gevalia.com. I became a member of the site (not sure I will keep it and its a no contract membership, so I may cancel it) but got a travel mug and 3 half pound packs of coffee for $3.00 including shipping.

Total Left in budget: $38.57

Harris Teeter is running Super Doubles starting tomorrow so I am hoping to go to that since we do have the extra money for the week. If I do, I will make sure to tell you what I've gotten. Otherwise, this may be a slow week.

Couponing 101

2009-07-14T15:29:00.004-04:00

I heard the words the other day "I'm not as good as you are." Talking about couponing. I wasn't very good in the beginning either. I didn't know where to start or how to take advantage and get the maximum out of my coupons. I am not by any stretch a pro at couponing. I hit and miss. Succeed one week, but not do so great the next. Below are some tips to maximize your coupon savings and coupon lingo.

1. Organize your coupons- Keeping yourself organized will make it easier for you to find deals and match them up with your coupons when needed. I use a binder with categories. Other people use a box to keep them organized. Its up to you what works best.

2. Keep all your coupons- You never know when you might want them or if that product drops to next to nothing and you want to try something new for pennies or free. Also, many people trade for coupons. The coupons you don't want, you can trade for ones you do want.

3. Take advantage of coupon doubles (usually up to $2)/triples(usually up to $0.99)- Stock up on products when you can get them at a very low amount. Try to pair your products with a coupon. Set a limit on what you want to spend for a certain product. Stores that I know double or triple occassionally are Bloom, Harris Teeter, K-Mart, SuperFresh and Shoppers. Other stores double coupons up to .99 everyday!

4. Stockpile- Stock on items, even if you don't need them right then and there if your budget allows and the price is good. This will save you from paying full price for the item later. For example, toothpaste. You can get this for free at drugstores!

5. Set a limit and stick to it- Set a grocery budget and stick to it. When you're working on stocking things, your budget will be a little higher, but once you get used to it, it'll drop drasticly. I work on $200 a month for 2 adults. This includes all food, toiletries, kitchen and laundry supplies and paper products. Also, once you get used to it, set a limit on what you will spend on certain products. I won't spend over $0.40 cents on dish soap and spend low oop on toilet paper. I also won't spend over $1.50 on razors. Yeah, thats right! $1.50!

6. Try making a menu for the week and only use what is in your house. I personally don't do this based on my schedule, but I rarely grocery shop for dinners at the beginning or during the week.

7. Unless you have to completely stock your house, go in with a list and your coupons and come out with just that! Also, don't shop if you're hungry. It will lead to purchases you don't need.

8. Give up your loyalties! You don't have to give up the products you like. But why not try a product if its, lets say $0.20 for shampoo. It can't hurt to try something different.

9. Use CVS and other drugstores to your advantage- Take part in the ECB card and earn money. You will start with a higher oop your first trip or two. But after you start earning ECB's, try to roll those into other products that give you ECB's also. That will make your oop low and give you something else to use on your next trip there.

10. Use forums like Hot Coupon World and A Full Cup- These forums are broken into the grocery stores and drugstores that may be around you. They break down the current ads and tell you where the deals are. I frequent these sites to get my deals and make sure there isn't anything I missed.

11. Know when your stores ads run- For example, SuperFresh out here runs Friday to Thursday. Stores like Safeway and Food Lion run Wednesday to Tuesday. Giant, K-Mart and Shoppers run Thursday to Wednesday.

Couponing Lingo:

IP - Internet Printable
MQ - Manufacturer's Coupon
Stacking - Using the store coupon (ex. Target, Food Lion, CVS) and combining it with an MQ
B1G1, BOGO, B1G1F – “Buy 1, Get 1 Free”
$/$$ - Dollars off wyb XX dollars
Blinkies - Coupon dispensed near product, in the store (usually from a “blinking” red box)
Catalina - Coupon dispensed at the register at the time of purchase (on separate paper)
Peelie - Coupon that you peel off the package
Tear Pad - Pad of refund forms or coupons found hanging from a store shelf or display
MIR - Mail in Rebate
OOP - Out Of Pocket
YMMV- Your Mileage May Vary (you may find the item priced differently or it may not work for you the same)
FLIP - Food Lion Internet Printable
WYB - When You Buy
ECB - Extra Care Buck (CVS)
ESR - Easy Saver Rebate (Walgreens)
IVC - Instant Value Coupon (Walgreens store coupon, found in Walgreens Easy Saver Catalog and on in store tear pads)
RR - Register Rewards (these are the Catalinas that print out at Walgreens)
SCR- Single Check Rebate (rebate system at Rite Aid)

There is so much more to know about couponing but you pick it up little by little. Start with some of the guidelines and you'll do great to start off. I also post my shopping trips and try to detail what deals I got so keep checking back.

What do YOU want?

2009-07-12T20:31:00.003-04:00

I have been keeping this blog up a little more than a month now. I know for the most part, no one probably looks at it. But if you do, I'd love to hear, from you, what you would like to see on this blog? I'd love to get your feedback from each and everyone of you. What you like. What you don't like. And what you'd like to see.

Good reads!

2009-07-12T20:08:00.004-04:00

My posts have gotten away from me the last week or two. I'm sure it also will this next week because of a busy work week and family coming in after that. I haven't looked much at the blogs that keep me updated on everything lately, but I'm working on that right now. I don't even know if I'll make it to CVS this week :-( And I have $10 ECB's to spend! Next week though!

Jenny over at Southern Savers has done another great job at compiling all the latest deals, the latest at Kroger.

Staples is having a Huge $1 sale going on until Saturday. Erin at Coupon Cravings gives you a list of what you can get just for a buck.

Looking for a professional picture opportunity for your kids? Head on over to Be Cents Able to find out how you can get a picture package from the Picture People for FREE. The package includes one 8 x 10, two 5 x 7 and eight wallet sized prints of a single image.

Free Sample Freak is a great site for freebies. I've been a bit behind on this site for a bit. Right now there is a free recipe book from Sun Maid, a coupon for a free energy drink, freebies for teachers and some other great deals.

Military Commissary

2009-07-12T15:51:00.003-04:00

Had another grocery trip today. Just another trip to make sure we're stocked up for the company coming in and the BBQ next week. Very glad I stocked up on other things last month so this is do able without having to go into any other accounts....yet. Haha. Sure that's going to come. I picked up just a few more things.

2 1 Gallon waters (.35 Military Q)
2 30ct. Solo Square grip cups (.75Q x 2)
1 16oz. Ziti pasta
1 Hormel Completes dinner (Free military Q)
1 Plastic Silverware
1 McCormick Black Pepper
10 Dannon Light n Fit Yogurts
1 12ct. Large Eggs

Total before coupons: $15.27
Total with surcharge: $10.73

Left in food budget for the week: $13.23

Savings 31%

Giant

2009-07-11T22:44:00.003-04:00

I hit up Giant today to use my last $5/15 off meat purchase coupon. I don't have enough money in my food budget to take advantage of it again this week :-( I'm just hoping for more after these expire on the 16th.

I was proud today on what I got. Last time I stocked up on ground beef and Italian sausage, this week, chicken and 2 steaks.

4.23lbs. Chicken Drumsticks
3.64lbs. Chicken Thighs
1.05lbs. Chicken Tenders
1.94lbs. Sirloin Steak

Before the $5/15Q and the Giant Card Savings, the total was $31.60. After, total oop was $10.16.

For a total savings of 68%

Total left in food budget for the week: $23.96

SuperFresh

2009-07-11T22:24:00.004-04:00

Hit up SuperFresh's triples today. Not the best deals, but got some things we will need for the next few weeks and for the upcoming BBQ. Today I got:

5 12pks. Pepsi Products
1 Folgers (very large) (.50Q x 3) 1
Hungry Jack Buttermilk Pancakes (.25Q x 3)
2 BC Warm Delights (.50Q x 3)
1 Electrosol GelPacs (2.50Q)
1 Luigi's Italian Ice (.50 x 3)
1 Lipton to Go (.60 x 3)
1 Healthy One Deli Meat (.55 x 3)
2 International delight Creamer (1/2Q)
2 French's Mustard (.50 x 3)
1 Kikkoman Teriyaki sauce (.50 x 3)
1 Newman's Own Dressing (.75 x 3)
1 Bic Disposable Razor (2.00)
1 Sunny D Smoothie (.55 x 3)
1 Mt. Olive Pickles (.50 x 3)
3 Movie Candy

Total Before Savings Card and Coupons: $84.30
Total OOP: $30.90
Total Savings: 63%

I had $15.02 left from last week. Both weeks added together, I have $34.92 left for my weekly budget.

I'd like to think that isn't too bad when some is for a BBQ, $10 worth of soda and coffee that will last a few months.

Thursday Finds

2009-07-09T12:14:00.002-04:00

I've been a little lax about posting finds that I've found on other blogs lately. I've gotten pretty busy and my mind has been scattered. So I'm taking a break, and giving you the finds that I come across today.

If you head on over to Coupon Cravings, Erin has quite a few good deals up. Some of those include a Free Slurpie @ 7-Eleven, Free Aveda Samples, a Free Roastburger at Arby's, and my favorite, $5 off $15 meat purchase at Giant or Stop and Shop. There are also quite a few other great coupons or freebies to look at.

Jenny @ Southern Savers posts her weekly top grocery deals and drug store deals. You can find Top Grocery Deals for the week of 7/9 Here for Kroger, Pubix, Food Lion, Bi-Lo, Harris Teeter and Harvey's.

Keeping along the lines of grocery stores, Redemption Unlimited has her 5 reasons to visit Giant/Stop and Shop this week. My favorite reasons: Blueberries and $5/$15 meat combined with their weekly deals!

Lastly, my favorite thing thus far is Swagbucks. Swagbucks is a search engine powered by Google and Ask.com. What makes this search engine different? It gives you what you call Swagbucks for searches. It isn't every search and can be somewhat of a hit and miss. But in my hit and miss searches that I would perform on a day to day basis on another search engine, I have earned enough for $30 of giftcards to Amazon.com. There are many other things you can "buy" with your swagbucks besides Amazon. Head on over using the link and get started. I love it. Whats better than actually getting paid for regular searches?

If you want to see other deals, there are many links on the right side of my blog that you can go have a look at.

Food for the week

2009-07-07T15:41:00.003-04:00

I made my weekly shopping trip today and yesterday. The deals just don't seem to be jumping at me this week and nothing seemed too exciting. However, I did make it to 5, yes 5, different stores today (they're all fairly close). I picked up only a few items at each, mainly stuff we needed for the week and for the month. I have people coming in and out of my house along with a BBQ in a few weeks so used my extra money to go towards that. Why not ya know?

I have one more trip to do, but the man is making the trip for me after he gets off work. I didn't find a deal on yogurt as well as milk or eggs so he's picking that up at the military commissary.

I also have to keep reminding myself I did ok. I feel like I didn't, but I used barely any coupons, so overall, not a bad trip with the lack of coupons used.

CVS

(I'm very happy about this deal. With the heat, my place has been starting to get a slight musty smell :-(

2 Febreze Noticeable Starter Kits ($4Q x 2)
1 Febreze Fabric
1 Febreze Air Freshener (Free wyb of Febreze Fabric Q)
2 Dawn (I'm going to get yelled at if someone looks under the sink) (.50 & .20Q)
1 CVS brand Pantiliners (Free after ECB's)
2 Head & Shoulders Shampoo (B1G1 Q)

Paid in 2 different transactions.
1st Transacton: Paid with $5ECB's and $2.21 cash. Received $5.99 in ECB's
2nd Transaction: Paid with $5.99 ECB's and $1.43 cash. Received $10 in ECB's
Saved $40.41
OOP $3.64 and received $10ECB's

Safeway

2 Hamburger 8pks.
1 Hotdog 8 pks.
1 White Bread
1 Lettuce Head
1.75lbs. Peaches

No Coupons, Club Card
OOP $7.18
Saved $5.50

SuperFresh

1 Luigi's Italian Ice (.50 doubled Q)
1 4C Iced Tea

1 4C Variety Pack (Free wyb 4C iced tea)
2 Land O Lakes Butter (.55 doubled Q x 2)

OOP $6.00
Saved $14.35 (Q's and Card)
Also received .50 Cat for purchase of Butter

Giant

2.53lbs. Italian Sausage
3.81lbs. Ground Beef
1.77lbs. Cherries

Used $5/$15 off purchase of meat
OOP 13.82
Saved $18.04

Also went to Food Lion (no picture) and got 6 Corn on the cob ears, 3 limes, 1 40ct. Foam plates.
OOP $2.93
Saved $3.20

Total OOP: $33.57
Total Before Savings: $115.07
Total Savings: 71%

Plus for my next purchases, I received 10ECBs and .50 Cat

Weekly Finals

2009-07-01T11:09:00.004-04:00

I know this is an early post of my weekly finals. But I don't know if I'll remember to post them with 4th of July looming in a few days. I'm also done grocery shopping for the week because all 4th of July money is coming from a Vacation fund.

My weekly trips can be found:
Here Walmart and SuperFresh,
Here HT Triples Run,
and Here HT Triples Run

I also made one other trip for sugar that I didn't put in here that totaled $1.87

My total Grocery money spent out of pocket was: $39.83
My total before Savings (I forgot to put regular prices for SF and Walmart, so totals only include HT savings): $139.20
For a saving percentage of: 71%
Under budget of: $10.17

Post your weekly totals here

WalMart

2009-06-30T12:43:00.002-04:00

Again, as with Target, call your local Walmart to make sure they take printable coupons. Mine doesn't :-( But if they do, you're in for some real treats! Head on over to Saving with Amy to see the full list. Here are some that I thought were great!

A-1 Steak Sauce $2.43
$2/1 6/14 SS
$2/1 printable Here
(makes it $0.43)

Bar S Franks 16 oz $0.90
Use $1/2 printable Here
(makes it $0.80 for 2 pack hotdogs)

Kraft Mac and Cheese Cups $.69
$1/2 printable Here
(makes them .19)

Maxwell House Coffee {11 oz.} $3.12
$2/2 printable Here
(makes it $2.12 each)

Starbucks Ice Cream $2.50
$2/1 6/21 SS
(makes it .50!)

Beggin' Strips Treats for dogs $3.17
BOGO 1/11 SS insert
$3/1 printable Here
(makes it with both coupons 2/$0.17)

Target June 26th - July 4th

2009-06-30T12:33:00.003-04:00

Before you head on over to your Target, you might want to call first and see if they will allow you to use both Target printables and Manufacturer coupons together. BeCentsAble has the links to the Target printables along with a few other deals. Some that I found worthwhile are:

Pepperidge Farm Buns - $2.00
Use $.75/1 Target printable
Use $.55/1 in 6/14 SS insert
Final price: $0.70
GREAT FOR 4TH OF JULY PARTIES

Edy’s Ice Cream $2.33
Use $1.00 Target printable coupon
Final price: $1.33 each

My favorite ways to be Frugal

2009-06-29T13:43:00.004-04:00

Clip Coupons - Look for grocery stores that double coupons or run triples occasionally. Use those times to your advantage. Talk to your friends and neighbors who get the Sunday papers but don't use the coupons and ask if you can have them. If you really want to stock up on an item, go to a coupon clipper site and order extra coupons. Stockpile when prices are at their lowest and pair with coupons.

Set a Budget - And stick to it. Start out with a food budget. Stock up with your extra food money. Then slowly drop your food budget. That might sound like I'm living in a fairy tale. But its easy to do.

Cut Eating Out - Eating out is quick and easy. And I have to admit, I love it. But, once you cut down, you really notice how much you will save. Eat at home more often. Bring a sack lunch to work instead of buying. Set up a separate account that will allow for you to eat out a certain amount of times a month and don't spend more than that.

Use Online Bill Pay! - This one really does save you money! If you're writing checks (I'm not sure those prices, but I know their not cheap), it adds up. Not to mention the envelope you have to send the bills in and the stamps. Its an easy thing to do and I find it much easier for me to REMEMBER to pay those bills! If I had to wait for snail mail, they probably wouldn't make it on time. Stamps alone, if you send out 10 bills a month, you'd save $4.40 a month and $52.80 a year. That's $52 you could put towards something you really need.

Sign up for Freebies - This one may sound like one that will only get you spam mail. Set up a new email address for freebies alone. Find a great site that will point you in the direction of the many new that week. They usually take 6-8 weeks to get to your house, but once you get the freebie (especially if its a product you've been wanting to try but aren't sure you'll like it), enjoy! Another perk to freebies is that the company will usually send you coupons in that item to further you buying their product.

Stop Splurge Buying - When you go to the grocery store, go in with a list and NEVER go when you're hungry. If you don't have your list or are hungry, you're bound to come out with more things you don't need. Also, if you want something at a store, wait a few weeks or a month and if you still want it, then get it then after you've had ample time to think about it. Even then, try waiting for a sale.

NEVER buy on a Credit Card - Don't buy on a credit card UNLESS you have the money. I do break the never buy on a credit card rule. BUT, if I break it, it is because I can get a 2 for 1 movie ticket or cheaper gas by using the card. However, if I do this, I go straight home, log into my online banking and pull the money from the specified accounts and pay it right off. I never use the CC as credit anymore. If you're going to use your card, make sure you act as if it is the cash that is in your account at that very moment.

Give Self Haircuts - I'm trying to learn how to do this one. But I will only do this if its on a guys hair. I won't do it on my own and will probably always do a salon. Men are easier to do self haircuts and usually end up more expensive because they have to do it more often. So DIY!

Try out Thrift Shopping - Need something? Check out a thrift store, craigslist, or a garage sale first. Chances are you'll find what you're looking for.

Home Brewed Coffee - The name sounds much fancier. But instead of going to Starbucks or Dunkin Donuts for your daily coffee, invest in a coffee maker and start making your coffee from home. Our coffee maker cost $20. Coffee costs, after my coupons and sales, roughly $2.50 a bag. That typically makes, for us, about 56 cups of coffee at each cup equaling 2 cups. So buying a bag of coffee at $2.50 and having 28 servings costs roughly .09 cents for us. Isn't that much better than $4 a day? The occassional splurge is nice though.

There are so many other ways to become frugal, but I'm not willing to cut out a lot of that stuff. Examples are: No internet, cut out the cable TV, Pay As you Go Cell phone (my regular cell phone is my usual form of communication).

What about you? What are your favorite ways to be frugal? Leave a comment or leave a link to your blog.

Sunday Highlights

2009-06-28T20:01:00.003-04:00

I'm sitting here reading some of the blog sites I have recently run across and I would like to highlight some of their posts that I enjoyed reading tonight.

Head on over to Melissa's Bargain and check out Eating Out on a Budget.

See how Alyssa saves money on gas over at Keeping The Kingdom First.

For those of you who have Jamba Juice, you're lucky. Go find out how to get a B1G1 coupon over at Money Saving Mom.

Head on over to the Happy Housewife and see her post's highlighting meal planning and Disney World on a budget!

I'm sure there are more, but that is all I can think of at the moment. Be sure to pass my blog on to other people. Never know who might get inspired to save!

In Need of: Any ideas?

2009-06-28T19:47:00.000-04:00

I have a freezer/refrigerator combo. The freezer is smaller and on top. It is always a disarray because their are no shelves. Does anyone have any ideas for a shelving unit, inexpensive, but still will give me enough room to store what I can? I don't want to lose any freezer room because I have so little already but I need a little organization. Any ideas?

Quick Trip

2009-06-28T16:10:00.002-04:00

I made 2 quick trips to Walmart and SuperFresh today. No coupons, but it was stuff I needed to cook with for tonights dinner and to bake some bread. Keeping up with my budget, I'm still under but need to pick up some sugar at the Commissary tomorrow. Today I got:

SuperFresh
6 corn on the cob
2 lbs. Strawberries
Total $5.08

Walmart
3 2lt. Cola
1 Shortening
1 Vinegar
1 Bread Crumb
1 5lb. Flour
Total $10.17

I'm making up Strawberry bread right now with the Strawberries. If they look presentable, I'll post pictures! But its still yummy!

That leaves my budget for the rest of the week at $18.14 but the kicker is, we don't need anything but that sugar. And most of everything I spent for the week out of the $50 was to stock up. July will be a crazy month so I might not be able to go coupon crazy, so I tried hard for June!

HT excitement continues!

2009-06-27T14:02:00.005-04:00

My third trip to Harris Teeter was today! I am hoping to make one more trip there. I didn't realize that I could get the shredded cheese for $1 so I definitely think a third trip is in order. Also didn't get my early Sunday edition paper for those coupons so waiting on them. Did 2 orders today. The man went with me so we were able to but they were out of a few items, so barely went over 20 coupons, but never the less, I did go over.

Transaction 1:
2 Kraft 2% shredded cheese
1 12 pk Deer Park water

Before VIC and coupons: $9.69
OOP after: $3.12

Transaction 2:
2 Cheerios Cereal
1 Mini Wheats
1 Snyder's Multi Grain
2 YoPlus Yogurt
1 100 Calorie Toast and Cheese Crackers
1 100 Hersheys
1 Hefty OneZip
2 Heluva dips
1 30ct. Rolaids (I get heartburn a lot :-(
2 Starbucks Ice Cream
2 Trial Size Playtex tampons
2 Dove Solid Deo
1 Greased Lightening (thanks to a fellow couponer who saw me at the store! First time this has happened to me!)
2 Kraft BBQ sauce (we use a lot)
1 Kotex Pads
1 Wholly Guacamole
1 Garnier Fructic Shampoo

Before VIC and coupons: $63.50
OOP after: $13.49

Total on Both before: $73.19
Total oop: $16.61
Total savings: 73%

I have an addiction

2009-06-26T12:19:00.002-04:00

As I sit here to ponder my day, I think about my time here in MD. What have I done? Not too much. I emersed myself in school, took on a part time job and worked on playing the role of "housewife" (which I'm not the best at I might add!). School takes up my time except during the summer. I have 2 more years left here, so I'm debating on slowing down because I won't continue onto my Bachelor's until I know where we will settle down in August 2011. I try my hand in cooking and baking, which to my dismay, I find out I'm rather good at. Cleaning is another story. It is still my least liked activity. And work has kept me busy, picking up extra hours in the summer just to fill my time and to help cover extra expenses that have come up.

What do I do for fun? I've sat and thought about that. I had two weeks while the man was gone, and what did I do? Nothing really. I sat inside, layed out in the sun, and tried to not go insane from no adult human contact. I have no friends here yet, but I'm sure that will come in time, at least one friend. Its nearing a year, and that seems like an eternity at times. But again I ask, what do I do for fun?

I look at our finances, I look at coupons, and I look at all the ways we can try to save! We have set ourselves on a VERY strict budget as far as food goes. Our other budgets are getting kind of lax, but a lot has come up that we've needed to pull extra money for, along with seeing family. I'm ok with that though. Why? Because I haven't had to put any bit on a credit card. We refuse!

So, my hobby is, saving us money. And like a true nerd, I get a thrill from it! I love getting my reciepts after buying our groceries and seeing the percentage I have saved. Yes, I may be running out of room for things, but I've gotten it all at such low prices and on things we use a lot of, it ends up worth it.

For example, men's razors and shaving cream. The man uses a lot of it. All military men usually do. You HAVE to be clean shaven. There is no exception. Because of that, we tend to go through 1 blade a week, or 4 a month. One pack of 4 blades are typically $10-20. I just got 4 new razors, each with 2 or 3 blades for $4. So why not stock up if I have the coupons and the deals to match?

Our financial goals, once things start to calm down again focus on a few major things.

1. Pay off our credit cards. We haven't been using them except to get gas on the Star Card (its cheaper on post that way), but I turn around and pay it off out of our gas fund. Also use my credit card for movie tickets. You get one free a month on Visa Signature cards. But again, I turn around and pay for it right away out of our spending account.
2. Put about 20% of our money into Savings. These are used for emergencies, travel and a down payment for a house. This is also where our summer money has come for with all the extra expenses we hadn't expected.
3. Lower the man's cell phone bill. This will happen soon hopefully. It will only save us $20 a month or so, but add that up and it hits $240 a year.

So, I have an addiction. I have an addiction to saving. I love it, and I love the thrill. Its a great feeling knowing that we've cut the grocery bill by a lot since we first moved, never run out of food anymore and usually still have money left.

Harris Teeter 6/24-6/30

2009-06-24T19:58:00.003-04:00

Had my first Harris Teeter doubles today (up to 1.98). We only have 3 of these in MD so I have never tried the triples (up to .99??) before. However, today I knew we needed a few things that HT had on sale so decided to swing a little bit out of my way on the way home from work to see what I could do. I now will be excited if triples come up again at my store and will make the effort to hit it. For my first quick trip, I got:

2 Cheerios
1 Mini Wheats
3 Gillette Fusion Shaving Cream
1 Ruby Red Ocean Spray Juice
1 Oreo Cakesters
2 Activia 4pk. Yogurts
2 24ct. Excedrin
1 Buitoni Fetticine
1.85lbs. Bananas (no coupon)

Before VIC and coupons, total was $48.89.
Out of pocket, I spent $6.10
Total savings of 85%

I hope to go back again to pick up a few more things this run. If not, I'll try to hit it up for the next triples.

Swagbucks!

2009-06-22T12:01:00.002-04:00

I just wanted to remind you all of a great search engine I use. It is called swagbucks. You earn Swagbucks for searches. Its not every time, but why not get paid for doing simple searches that you usually would through another search engine. I'm getting ready to cash out for another gift card to Amazon.com totaling $25 so far. It works for me! And its a real thing! I've got $20 on my Amazon account right now! Go sign up! Click on the bar and easy as pie!

Today's Trip(s)!

2009-06-20T15:25:00.003-04:00

Today I made my weekly trip to be ready for the week. This is usually either Saturday or Sunday but because tomorrow's CVS ad doesn't interest me, we did the shopping today. Also, we needed the Commissary so I chose not to do my shopping during the week. My trips weren't too bad.

Old Navy
10 Tanks - $8.50 each
Total: $85.00
Sale for $2 each
Total after tax: $21.20

Food Lion:

1/4lb. Provolone Cheese
1lb. Cooked Ham
2lbs. Peaches (Used $2/$5 Purchase Produce, FLIP)
1 Large Tomato
2 Yellow Corn
Total: $11.20
Total oop: $5.85

Giant Food

Italian Sausage - approx. 2.75lbs.
Boneless Chicken Breast (used $5 off $15 Meat Purchase) - approx. 4 lbs.
Total: $28.19
Total oop: $10.77

Military Commissary

Run down of items can be requested. Many dairy, meat, and produce products. Along with paper towels bought.
Total: $65.42
Total oop: $42.41 including $3.12 surcharge

Total Before Savings:
Clothing: $86.20
Grocery: $114.70
Total on all: $200.09

Total oop:
Clothing: $21.20
Grocery: $60.32 (under last week so used that extra)
Total on all: $81.52

% Saved:
Clothing: 75%
Grocery: 63%
Total on all: 59%

Weekly Finals

2009-06-20T14:55:00.002-04:00

My grocery weeks go different than other bloggers. My week goes roughly Saturday/Sunday to the following Friday. I give myself $50 for the week and then that is it. However, I am still working on my stockpile, so if there is extra money from the previous weeks, I will use it. I never go over $200 for four weeks and that is including all food products, health and beauty, paper products, etc.

Grocery Totals for the week:
Total before coupons: $93.91
Total after coupons: $27.34
Total % Saved: 71%
Under Budget: $22.66

You can find my grocery trips Here and Here

Freebies

2009-06-20T14:46:00.002-04:00

Thanks to Free Sample Freak , there is a freebie for completing a very short survey. It takes about 3-5 weeks for delivery. Check outFiji Tanning Butter

Also, Karen over at Frugal Rhode Island Mama has a whole list of freebies, coupons and more that you might want to look at!

Old Navy $2 Tee's!

2009-06-18T14:26:00.002-04:00

This Saturday, 6/20, Old Navy will have all Woman’s and Girl’s Ribbed tank tops on sale for $2 ea. No coupon necessary, limit of 5 per person.

Call your store to make sure first! I know I'll be calling mine and going if so. I LOVE these tanks!

Schwan's: Buy $5, Get $5 Off

2009-06-18T12:30:00.003-04:00

Thanks to Coupon Cravings, I found a great offer for Schwan's! With the promo code, D5, at checkout you can get $5 off your order. That means you can get free, or close to free food! Depending on your location, you may have a $1 delivery fee. Thats still a great deal! Go to Schwan's and let me know what you can get!

Freebies

2009-06-18T12:22:00.002-04:00

I love to get freebies. Not only do you get to try the product, they usually send you a coupon as an incentive to use the product! The freebies are great to use if you travel or want to make a gift basket or anything else you can think of. I strongly suggest to set up another email address specifically for freebies otherwise you'll be overloading your regular email.

Get a free sample of Scott Extra Soft Double Roll and a 10-Count Travel Pack of Scott Naturals Flushable Wipes @ Walmart.com

Thanks to Coupon Cravings

Sunday Coupon Inserts for 6/21

2009-06-16T17:36:00.003-04:00

The insert preview is based on the Pittsburgh area so your area may have a small change. I am in the Baltimore/DC area and they are usually pretty on but sometimes the amounts off are changed. In red are coupons I KNOW are worth it to me. Think of buying the paper at its face value usually $1.50 - $2.00 then see how much you can save. If there is only one coupon you want, it might be better asking around, asking me, or using a coupon clipper site.

SmartSource - 6/21/09
Freschetta Pizzas OR Edwards Whole Pies - $1.25 off any 2 (x8/15) DND-5
Wanchai Ferry Frozen Entrée - $2.00 off any 1 (x8/15)
Dannon 6oz Single-Serve Cups, any 10 OR Light & Fit 6-packs, any 2 - $1.00 off (x8/31)
Reddi-wip – 50 cents off any 1 (x8/31)
Pam Cooking Spray – 35 cents off any 1 (x8/31)
Land O Lakes Butter with Olive Oil - $1.00 off any 2 (x8/15) DND-5
Curad Hold Tite & Non-Stick Pads – 75 cents off 1 (x9/21)
Curad product, any – 50 cents off any 1 (x9/21)
Oscar Mayer Hot Dogs - $1.00 off any 2 (x8/16)
Hormel Pepperoni Pack – 75 cents off any 1 (x8/16)
GoodNites Sleep Pants, jumbo pack+ - $1.50 off any 1 (x7/31)
Oust Air Sanitizer or Surface Disinfectant & Air Sanitizer products - $2.00 off any 2 (x8/15)
TARGET COUPON – Charmin Ultra Soft Toilet Paper – 50 cents off any 1 (x8/31)
TARGET COUPON – Charmin Ultra Strong Toilet Paper – 50 cents off any 1 (x8/31)
TARGET COUPON – Bounty Paper Towels – 50 cents off any 1 (x8/31)
TARGET COUPON – Charmin Toilet Paper AND Bounty Paper Towels - $1.50 wby Both (x8/31)
Mitchum or Mitchum for Women product – 75 cents off any 1 (x7/20) E-T-S and multi-packs
TARGET COUPON – Iams Premium Protection Pet Food - $2.00 off any 1 (x8/31)
Luzianne Iced Tea Bags – 60 cents off any 1 (x8/30)
Sarna Original or Sensitive Anti-Itch Lotion, 7.5oz - $2.00 off any 1 (x8/30)
(2)Huggies Diapers, any - $1.50 off any 1 (x7/18)
Huggies Overnites Diapers - $2.00 off any 1 (x7/18)
Huggies Baby Wipes, 64ct+ - 75 cents off any 1 (x7/18)
Kraft Salad Dressing, any variety - $1.00 off any 1 (x7/21)
Kraft Mayo, 24oz+ - 75 cents off any 1 (x7/19)
Bob Evans Bratwurst, Italian or Smoke Sausage – 50 cents off any 1 (x8/23)
Bob Evans Roll Sausage – 25 cents off any 1 (x8/23)
Starbucks Bottled Frappuccino Coffee Drink or Doubleshot Espresso Drink - $1.00 off any 1 (x9/13)
Starbucks Ice Cream - $2.00 off any 1 (x9/13)
Save on ANY Sugar wyb (10) Regular Kool-Aid Unsweetened Packets - $2.00 off (x7/31)
Post Grape Nuts, Shredded Wheat, or Raisin Bran - $1.00 off any 2 (x8/2)
Buitoni Refrigerated Pastas or Sauces - $1.00 off any 1 (x10/31)
Kemps Frozen Yogurt Parfait, 6oz single serve OR IttiBitz Ice Cream, 5oz – BOGO up to $1.29 value (x8/9)
OxiClean Versatile Powder, 56oz+ - $1.00 off 1 (x9/30)
OxiClean Laundry Pre-treater Spray – 75 cents off any 1 (x9/30)
OxiClean Stain Fighter Liquid - $1.00 off any 1 (x9/30)
Johnsonville Turkey Smoked Sausage – 35 cents off any 1 (x7/31)
(2)Mentos Gum – 55 cents off any 1 (x9/30) DND-5
L’oreal Excellence or Excellence Cremelights - $2.00 off any 1 (x9/13)
L’oreal Couleur Experte or Frosting, Highlighting, or Blonding Brands - $3.00 off any 1 (x9/13)
Air Wick Scented Oil Twin Refill Pack or (2) Single Refills - $1.00 off (x8/2)
Air Wick Warmer Unit FREE wyb Air Wick Scented Oil Refill – up to $3.19 value (x8/2)
International Delight Quarts - $1.00 off any 2 (x8/21) DND-5
Grande Tortilla Chips - $1.00 off any 1 (x9/30)
Krunchers! Kettle Cooked Potato Chips, 9.625oz - $1.00 off any 1 (x9/30)
Schick Disposable Razor – BOGO up to $12.99 (x8/2)
Gold Bond Ultimate Lotion or Cream, excludes 1oz size - $1.00 off any 1 (x10/31)
Gold Bond Powder, excludes 1oz size - $1.00 off any 1 (x10/31)
Gold Bond Anti-Itch Cream or Lotion - $1.00 off any 1 (x10/31)
Gold Bond Foot Care Product - $1.00 off any 1 (x10/31)
Aquafresh Premium Toothpaste (Advanced, Extreme Clean, White & Shine, or Sensitive), 5.6oz+ - 75 cents off any 1 (x8/31)
Aquafresh Premium Toothbrush (Gel Flex or Deep Action) - $1.00 off any 1 (x8/31)
Bausch & Lomb Soothe or SoothXP Lubricant Eye Drops - $3.00 off any 1 (x9/30)
French’s Mustard – 50 cents off any 1 (x9/10)
Fisher nuts product, 4oz+ - $1.00 off any 1 (x12/31)
Dulcolax Laxative Tablets or Suppositories - $1.00 off any 1 (x9/30)
Dulcolax Stool Softener - $1.00 off any 1 (x9/30)

RedPlum - 6/21/09

Neutrogena Face Cosmetics - $3.00 off any 1 (x8/2)
Advil, 40ct+ - $1.00 off any 1 (x8/31)
Goodlife Recipe Treats for Cats – 50 cents off any 1 (x9/12)
Goodlife Recipe Treats for Dogs - $1.00 off any 1 (x9/12)
Minute Ready To Serve Rice products - $1.00 off any 2 (x9/12)
Flex-a-min Joint Care Product - $6.00 off any 1 (x8/5)
Clairol Nice ‘n Easy Haircolor product - $1.00 off any 1 (x7/31)
Clairol Perfect 10 Haircolor product - $5.00 off any 1 (x7/31)
Zyrtec Adult, 30ct+ - $4.00 off any 1 (x7/21)
Pedigree Food For Dogs, 8.8lb+ - $1.00 off any 1 (x8/16)
Sparkle Paper Towels, 2-Giant Roll Pack+ - 50 cents off any 1 (x8/17)
L’Oreal Revitalift product - $1.00 off any 1 (x9/13)
L’Oreal Skin Genesis product - $1.00 off any 1 (x9/13)
L’oreal Age Perfect or Collagen product - $1.00 off any 1 (x9/13)
Quaker Chewy Granola Bars – 75 cents off any 2 boxes (x8/15)
Quaker Fiber & Omega-3 Chewy Oat Granola Bars – 55 cents off any 1 (x8/15)
Eagle Brand Sweetened Condensed Milk - $1.00 of any 2 cans (x8/31) DND-5? (barcode doesn’t have a starting number…”52729 18133 6”
Nivea Body Wash for Women FREE wyb New Nivea My Silhouette! – up to $6.99 value (x7/12)
Nivea Body Wash for Women FREE wyb any Nivea Good-Bye Cellulite product –up to $6.99 value (x7/12)
Angel Soft Toilet Paper, 6-Double roll+ - $1.00 off any 2 (x9/13)
InStyle Magazine - $1.00 off 1 (x9/11)
Morton System Saver – (2) bags of 40, 50 or 80lb System Saver II Pellets OR (2) bags of 40 or 80lb Rust Remover Pellets OR (3) bags of 25lb System Saver II Pellets - $1.50 off (x10/25)
Nestle Nesquik 100 Calories 4-pack – 50 cents off any 1 (x8/16)
Nestle Nesquik products - $1.00 off any 2 (x8/16)
Weber Seasoning, any (1) OR Marinade Mixes, any (2) – 50 cents off (x8/31) DND-5
Hefty EZ Foil or EZOvenware – 50 cents off any 1 (x9/30) DND-9
Hefty, Hefty Hearty Meals, or ElegantWare Plates or Bowls – 50 cents off any 1 (x10/31) DND-9
Loud N Clear Sound Amplifier - $2.00 off 1 (x9/30)

Thanks to CatLover7731 @ AFC

$30 in coupons!

2009-06-16T17:28:00.002-04:00

Home Made Simple coupon booklet gives you $30 in coupons from Cascade, Dawn, Mr. Clean, Swiffer and Febreze. Just click on the link and sign up. Last one they offered a FREE Cascade Rinse Agent coupon in the booklet.
Go Here-Home Made Simple

Safeway Super Coupons!

2009-06-16T16:53:00.003-04:00

I pulled up the Safeway site and found out the Super Coupons are out! These should have come in your Sunday paper, but if not, they are usually in the front of the store with the weekly ads. There are some good one's here. To use super coupons, you have to meet the overall initial amount, which is usually $20, but can use them all once you hit $20. That is before coupons!!! Also, you can combine the SC with Manufacturer's coupons. Sounds pretty good to me.

These Super Coupons are good 6/14/09 to 6/21/09. I can't wait to see what the ad for tomorrow is. If they have the Mix and Match deal going on still, this could make for some cheap food.

Coupons I think would be a good deal are:
Pepsi Products .49 with coupon. Limit 1.
Jimmy Dean Bacon, Pork Sausage Rolls or Fully Cooked $1.99 Limit 1
Quaker Chewy Granola $.99 Limit 1 (Q's out there for this product)
Doritos $1.88 Limit 1
Rice or Pasta Roni $.75 Limit 1
Safeway Hot Dog or Hamburger Buns $.79 Limit 1
Popsicle Novelties $.99 Limit 1 (Great for the kids!)

If you want to see more, go to Safeway.com and just type in your zip code!

Coupons 4 Troops

2009-06-15T22:05:00.003-04:00

I found a website about a month ago called Coupons 4 Troops. Overseas families are able to use manufacturer coupons at the commissaries up to 6 months expired. I'm really excited to be able to start to do this. I know how much I can save. Living off a military salary (along with my own), I know how nice it is just to know you saved a little bit.

APO addresses take the same amount of stamps that you would send with a regular envelope in the states. If anyone else is interested in helping on out with this, look up Coupons 4 Troops or send me your expired coupons and I will send them to the address I have.

Again, I'm so excited to start this. I can't wait until my coupons start expiring!

Today's CVS trip

2009-06-14T21:34:00.002-04:00

Still have another trip to make to CVS later this week once I get my extra coupons, but made a quick trip today because I had to go to a store near there. I got:

1 Schick Quattro Razor
1 Purex 3 in 1

Total: $14.98
Used: $4MQ, $2MQ and $8 in ECB's
Total OOP: $1.40
Received $5ECB's to go to my next Razor purchase later this week!! YAY!

I love getting razor's for so cheap!!!

Hot CouponWorld

2009-06-14T16:51:00.003-04:00

I am working on putting the coupons I have that I am trying to get rid of into a database on Hot Coupon World. I ask for my friends and family, if they are interested in any of them, go on and let me know. I also have other stuff that I am not inputting into the system, so if you have anything you're looking for, let me know and I will see if I have it. The link to see my database is http://www.hotcouponworld.com/userlists/Hcarroll86
I'm not sure if you have to be a member to access this or not. If you do, its a free site, and really tells you where the deals are in your area.

Sign up Sunday!

2009-06-14T11:10:00.003-04:00

Go on over to Free Sample Freak. They have freebie sign ups every day that they find and on Sunday's, put them all together. Most sign ups send you the sample and a coupon. If anything, its just worth it trying a new product for free. Free Sample Freak

This Week's Plan

2009-06-13T18:31:00.002-04:00

My CVS plan for this week is to get:

3 Schick Quattro Titanium Razor's $7.99
1 Purex 3 in 1 Detergent $6.99

All for roughly $2 plus tax

CVS ad for 6/14-6/20 has the razors for $7.99 each recieving $4ECB's back. There is also a $4 MQ in tomorrow's paper. The limit this week is 3. Same with Purex. Limit is 5. And there is a $2 MQ in the paper along with $2ECB's back. It would end up really cheap for me so I'm willing to try that product. My transactions will look like this:

Transaction 1:
2 Razors = 15.98
- $8 in MQ's = 7.98
Pay with 8ECB's that I already have and need a filler
Total: filler plus tax
Receive 8ECB's back

Transaction 2:
1 Razor = 7.99
1 Purex = 6.99
Total = 14.98
- $6 in MQ's = 8.98
Pay with 8ECB's from Trans 1 and .98oop
Receive 6ECB's back

We'll see how it goes, but that is my plan. May just drop it to 2 Razors depending on how many coupons I end up with.

Two shopping trips today

2009-06-13T18:08:00.000-04:00

I went on two quick shopping trips today. I like to think I did fairly well. It was stuff we needed, or would use in the near future. It is for tomorrow's start of the week. The man is gone until the weekend, so I've been able to use our extra money that we aren't using for his deli meat and fruit to stockpile on some things. So I've been taking advantage of it.

Safeway run (coupons in red):
3 2Lt. Pepsi Products
4 Joint Juice (2 bogos)
3 Hamburger Helper (.75/3 doubled)
1 Eskimo Crunch Ice Cream (1.00)
2 Kraft BBQ ($1/2 in tomorrow's paper)
4 Betty Crocker Brownies
4 100 Cal Right Bites (2 $1 internet printables coupons.com)
1 Renuzit Spray (.75/1 doubled)
2 Banquet Sausage
2 Pop Tarts ($1/2)
1 Chex Mix Bars (.60/1 internet printable doubled)
1 Mission Tortilla Chips
2 Santa Fe Dips (salsa and cheese)
Total: $71.27
Minus $15 Mix and Match promotion
Total after Q's and M&M: $22.44
Total Saved: 69%

Below is the picture from running to SuperFresh.
I got 3 8ct. Pillsbury Grands and a 12ct. America's Choice Eggs
The deal was buy the Grands 3 for $5 and get the eggs free.
I used a .75/3 coupon which doubled making my total purchase $3.50
I saved $4.16

Total today: 25.94 on 34 products

Starting out

2009-06-13T17:58:00.001-04:00

I love it when I hear those two little phrases, "Wow, we paid you," or "How did you just do that?!" I just started couponing a few months ago and love every minute of it. Sometimes it takes extra time to get everything ready to go, but once you see what you saved, its great.

Couponing has become a thrill to me. I give myself roughly a $50 a week budget for 2 people. We also don't cut corners when it comes to meat, deli meat or fresh fruit. Coffee is used every day and its always flavored so it is a bit more expensive. Whatever I don't spend in my budget, I work on stockpiling. I don't have too much space in my apartment, but I make use of what space I do have. I look at it this way. If I can get products at a very minimal price, knowing I will use it, and have the extra money from my budget, get it. It will and has proven to save me money down the road. People may think I'm crazy, but looking at my budget, you might think otherwise.

I get at least one copy of inserts a week. I use stores like CVS for free razors and dish soap. I take advantage of every triple coupon week at stores within a reasonable difference. I use Safeway's Mix and Match sales when they run. I buy most meat at the military commissary (I know thats not a benefit most people get). Meat can also be found other places for cheap. I have learned that when it drops in price, it usually won't for another 6-8 weeks so stock up a bit.

So, from here on out, I will try and post what deals I have gotten, anything I have heard is coming up, or links to other people's blogs with information you might find helpful.