Do It On Less

Face Lift on the Way

2009-11-02T16:56:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the extended away time. I will return and have plans for something very big and very thrifty.

CHEAP clothes!

2009-10-18T18:59:00.000-07:00

MetroStyle has an amazing coupon code! Coupled with Ebates get yourself something nice for as little as $15! These would make excellent Holiday presents too! Go to Ebates and sign up if you already haven't. If this is your first time you can choose a gift card! Once signed in search for MetroStyle. Use the link to shop through MetroStyle and use code MS15 on your order of $15 or more and get $15 off, plus 3% back from Ebates!

Thank you Engineer!

Free Sample 7th Generation Laundry Detergent

2009-10-18T16:43:00.000-07:00

Boy do I love freebies! Get a free sample of 7th Generation Laundry detergent!

Free Pink

2009-10-15T04:15:00.000-07:00

Victoria Secret is giving away free pink panties! VS carries some amazing panties and I don't get to treat myself to nice bloomers often enough! I'll be sure not to miss this!

Target Freebies!

2009-10-14T18:04:00.000-07:00

Roumor has it there is a coupon in the 10/18 paper for a free reusable Target bag! I LOVE reusable bags! They are cheap and good for everything!

Pond's Towelettes (travel size)
$1.50/1
Free

Arm & Hammer Toothpaste (travel size)
$3/2 in 8/16 Smartsource insert
Get both free

Clean & Clear Morning Burst Facial Scrub (travel size)
$1/1 in 8/2 Smartsource insert (expires 10/18)
Free

Johnson’s Buddies Soaps
$1/1 in 9/13 RedPlum insert
Free

Buy 2 Fancy Feast Appetizers
Use BOGO manufacturer's coupon from the 9/20 inserts
Stack with the BOGO Target coupon
Get both free after coupons

Kellogg’s Whole Grain Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tarts--$1.52
Buy 2 and use $2/2 Kellogg’s in 8/30 RedPlum insert
Stack with 2 $1/1 Target coupons
Free after coupons (Thanks, Deal Seeking Mom!)

Arm & Hammer Toothpaste (travel size)--$1.07
Use $3/2 in 8/16 insert
Free after coupon

Renu Contact Solution (travel size)
Use $2/1 coupon
Free

Chex Mix (3.75-oz.)
Use $1/1 Target coupon
Free

Air Wick I-Motion Starter Kits (if on sale, I haven't checked)
Use $6/1 in 9/13 SmartSource insert
Free

Head and Shoulders Shampoo (travel size
Use $1/1 in 8/30 P&G insert
Free

Reach dental floss
Use $1/1 in 6/21 SmartSource insert
$0.02 each after coupon

If you see more please leave a comment!

Thanks MSM

Hump Day Give Away Winners!

2009-10-14T18:00:00.000-07:00

I know it was a small give away, but it was fun! I'm glad that I have a few new faces around here and hopefully the next hump day give away isn't too far off!

the winners are (thanks Random.org)

#2 Tina said...

Yes! I am a follower :-)
#4 KL Bezooyen said...

i just added myself as a follower. i am excited to be considered for this giveaway; thank you so much!

Check your email and get back to me!

Free OPKs or HPTs!

2009-10-09T06:27:00.001-07:00

Get ten FREE ovulation predictor kits or home pregnancy tests

$.04 Peanut Butter at Target!

2009-10-08T09:41:00.000-07:00

Use the coupon in the 10/4 Redplum and the Target Coupon Generator coupon. Be sure to check that they are priced at $1.79. I will check out the local Beavercreek Target today.

2 FREE Compact Florecent Lights

2009-10-08T05:02:00.001-07:00

How cool is free AND enegry saving!? Trott over to TXU Energy and take a short survey to get two free CFLs!

This is also a cheap trick! You can cut your electric bill substantially bu switching to CFLs or LCD lighting! Also by turning lights off when you leave a room!

Thursday Old Navy Weekly Hunt!

2009-10-08T04:34:00.000-07:00

Once again it's Thursday and It's time for the Old Navy Coupon Hunt over at Engineer for a Debt Free Life! Money Savin' Mom and the Engineer are two of the most happening bloggers that I have met in a while! They have shown me doors to things online that I didn't know existed! While you are waiting for the site to reload, you should poke around at past posts and see if there is anything that strikes your fancy!

For those of you who are hearing about the Old Navy Weekly Hunt for the first time here are the things you need to know.

Every week, on Thursday evening most weeks, Old Navy updates a promotional site called Old Navy Weekly. If you go to Old Navy Weekly (ONW) and click around you can find hidden coupons, some worth $65 or even $75 off a $100 purchase! Pretty simple!

Now for the advanced stuff. The coupons are grabbed up FAST within seconds of the site going live! So coupon hunters have developed techniques for hunting. The most popular of which is logging into a chat room with other coupon hunters. Some down load programs that make a 'ding' when the site goes live, some have auto refresh programs (all legal and fair game) both of these programs have faults. The 'ding' doesn't always ding, and you're sitting there hitting refresh anyways. The auto refresh doesn't know when to stop auto refreshing.

Another tool to use is the M80 News Room (just called M80). M80 is a guerrilla marketing tool that a few companies use to get the word out about their product. M80 often posts about how many and what vale the coupons for the week will be. They also have the item of the week.

Text messages from ONW. Some people swear that the text (that you can sign up for on the ONW site) has some higher meaning. I agree, and disagree. I have noticed that once the texts come, sometimes the site will update within a few hours, sometimes not. The text also gives "clues" about the hiding spots, generally they aren't very good clues.

Be sure to sign up for swagbucks and get an Old Navy gift certificate possible making your shopping trip FREE!

Thats about all you need to know! If there is something that I missed please let me know!

McDonald's Monopoly!

2009-10-07T05:22:00.000-07:00

Monopoly has started as of yesterday at McDonalds! Be sure to play online, by mobile and facebook to increase your chances of winning! Check back here often, I will post codes as I know them!

So far I have 2 codes, good for 2 rolls!

uonlyricher <-you get this one if you link with facebook
I6L6V4N4T09

PRIZES
ONLINE

$50 CASH Mediterranean Avenue • Baltic Avenue
$100 CASH Reading Railroad • Pennsylvania Railroad B. & O. Railroad • Short Line
$200 CASH Oriental Avenue • Vermont Avenue Connecticut Avenue
$500 CASH St. Charles Place • States Avenue Virginia Avenue
$1,000 CASH St. James Place • Tennessee Avenue New York Avenue
$2,000 CASH Kentucky Avenue • Indiana Avenue Illinois Avenue
$3,000 CASH Atlantic Avenue • Ventnor Avenue Marvin Gardens
$5,000 CASH Pacific Avenue • North Carolina Avenue Pennsylvania Avenue
$10,000 CASH Park Place • Boardwalk

IN STORE

$50 CASH Mediterranean Avenue • Baltic Avenue
$500 CASH Reading Railroad • Pennsylvania Railroad B. & O. Railroad • Short Line
$1,000 CASH Oriental Avenue • Vermont Avenue Connecticut Avenue
$2,000 CASH St. Charles Place • States Avenue Virginia Avenue
$5,000 CASH St. James Place • Tennessee Avenue New York Avenue
$10,000 CASH Kentucky Avenue • Indiana Avenue Illinois Avenue
$25,000 CASH Atlantic Avenue • Ventnor Avenue Marvin Gardens
$50,000 CASH Pacific Avenue • North Carolina Avenue Pennsylvania Avenue
$1,000,000 CASH Park Place • Boardwalk

How to play, online
1. Enter a Code
Take your Game Stamp and enter the 11-digit Code at PlayatMcD.com Oct. 6 – Nov. 16 to receive one dice roll. Every Game Stamp Code also enters you in the $100,000 Jackpotº Sweepstakes.

Get Game Pieces on:

* Angus Burgers (Not available in Guam & Saipan.)
* Chicken McNuggets®: 20 pc. & 10pc.
* Large Fries
* Medium & Large Fountain Drinks
* Large Hot McCafé® Drinks
* Hash Browns

While supplies last. Some items not available at all locations.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. To participate without making a purchase, mail a legibly handwritten, self-addressed, stamped envelope ("SASE") with sufficient postage and a return address (first and last name, street address, city, state, and zip or postal code) to: 2009 MONOPOLY at McDonald's Free Game Piece Request, P.O. Box 49189, Strongsville, OH 44149-0189. DO NOT SEND POTENTIAL WINNING GAME STAMPS, COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS TO THIS ADDRESS. Two (2) Game Pieces will be mailed in response to each request that complies with the requirements of the Official Rules, while supplies last. Mail-in requests, including both outer envelope and ("SASE"), must be handwritten and must be postmarked no sooner than September 22, 2009 and must be postmarked by November 2, 2009 and received by Sponsor no later than November 6, 2009. If the In-Store Game runs long, these dates are subject to a corresponding extension. Requests from Vermont ("VT") residents that are postmarked in VT may omit return postage.

2. Login or register
If you are a new player, you will be prompted to register. If you've already played, all you have to do is login and you are ready to play!

3. Roll the Dice
Choose your lucky token and start rolling! Your token will automatically move the number of spaces you roll. If you collect a property, it will be stored in your Account (My Game Play) – collect a Winning Combination to win! Or, you could land on Community Chest, GO or Free Parking and instantly win a prize! Limit ten (10) Codes per day.

How to play by Text
Play the Online Game at
PlayatMcD.com OR via mobile!

1. Text a Code
Text the 11-digit Code from your Game Stamp to the 5-digit Mobile Short Code, 96363. (Your plan's message and data rates may apply.‡‡)

2. Accept the Rules
If this is your first play via mobile, you will be prompted to accept the Official Rules for the 2009 MONOPOLY® Game at McDonald's®. To accept, reply with your birth year.

If you are 13 years old, you will be asked to enter the day and month of your birth.

3. Play!
If your Code was valid, you will receive a message with the result of your play, and a 5-digit PIN. You will need this PIN to sync your mobile phone number to your Online Account. If you do not have an Online Account, you must register for the Online Game.

If you do not use your PIN to sync your mobile phone number to your Online Account, you will only be allowed to play the Online Game via mobile 8 times and you will not be able to claim a prize.

If your play completes a property set or is an instant winner, you will receive a winning message. To receive your prize, your mobile phone number and Online Account must be synced, you must comply with the Official Rules and follow the instructions to redeem your prize.

Hot to play via Facebook
Play the 2009 MONOPOLY® Game at McDonald's® via the application on Facebook®

1. Login or register for Facebook®
If you're not already a registered player in the Online 2009 MONOPOLY® Game at McDonald's, then you'll need to first complete that registration process. When you register, your information will be subject to the Privacy Policy in the 2009 MONOPOLY Game at McDonald's Official Rules. Next, either login to your Facebook® account or create a free Facebook account at http://www.facebook.com/.

2. Go to the McDonald's Facebook® Fan Page
Once logged into your Facebook® account, go to the McDonald's Fan Page by entering the URL http://www.facebook.com/McDonalds. From the McDonald's Fan Page, click the MONOPOLY tab found at the top of the Fan Page. Next, click the "Click to Activate" link. You will then be presented with an "Allow Access" screen and the options to "Accept" or "Cancel". In order to use the application on Facebook®, you will need to click "Accept" to allow the application access to your Facebook® account. Clicking "Allow" will then take you to the application's Code entry screen.
Note: If you elect to click on "Cancel" you will be returned to your Facebook® home page.

3. Code entry via the application on Facebook
The 2009 MONOPOLY Game at McDonald's application on Facebook® will provide a Code entry field. Enter your Code and then click "Let's Play". After clicking "Let's Play", you will be redirected to PlayatMcD.com where the Code you entered will be played when you login. Please refer to the above "Online Game" tab, on this page, for details on how the Online Game works.

At McDonald's
Play the 2009 MONOPOLY® Game at McDonald's with these food items:

* Angus Burgers (Not available in Guam & Saipan.)
* Chicken McNuggets®: 20 pc. & 10 pc.
* Large Fries
* Medium & Large Fountain Drinks
* Large Hot McCafé® Drinks
* Hash Browns

While supplies last. Some items not available at all locations.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. To participate without making a purchase, mail a legibly handwritten, self-addressed, stamped envelope ("SASE") with sufficient postage and a return address (first and last name, street address, city, state, and zip or postal code) to: 2009 MONOPOLY at McDonald's Free Game Piece Request, P.O. Box 49189, Strongsville, OH 44149-0189. DO NOT SEND POTENTIAL WINNING GAME STAMPS, COMMENTS OR QUESTIONS TO THIS ADDRESS. Two (2) Game Pieces will be mailed in response to each request that complies with the requirements of the Official Rules, while supplies last. Mail-in requests, including both outer envelope and ("SASE"), must be handwritten and must be postmarked no sooner than September 22, 2009 and must be postmarked by November 2, 2009 and received by Sponsor no later than November 6, 2009. If the In-Store Game runs long, these dates are subject to a corresponding extension. Requests from Vermont ("VT") residents that are postmarked in VT may omit return postage.

Collect & Win
Collect all properties in a color group or a set of railroads to win a cash prize! Use an Official Game Board to collect and organize your Game Pieces. Don't have a Restaurant Game Board? Click here to download one.

Instant Win
Look for the words INSTANT WIN / GANA AL INSTANTE on your Game Stamp, and you could win food or other prizes!

Hump Day Giveaway! YoPlait Kids Prize Pack!

2009-10-06T04:18:00.000-07:00

It official!! I finally have a Hump Day Giveaway courtesy of the good people at Yoplait Kids and MyBlogSpark!

I have 2 Yoplait kids prize packs! They come with a very fancy insulated zipper tote, 2 colour change spoons, a playmat and a fun little toy called a 'tangle' It really is addicting. PapaBug kept stealing it from me while I was playing with it on the couch. BabyBug loves it soft texture. You also get a coupon for a FREE pack of either kids 25% less sugar or Tricks Yogurt! (Free is awesome)

If you would like to enter, just subscribe to my blog through feed burner or follow me and leave me a comment that you are following/a subscriber! Please leave your email too, so I can contact you! I will choose and post the winners on Wednesday October 14th! Since this is my first giveaway, I hope to see a lot of new faces!

Everyone gets a coupon worth $1 off!

October is Apon Us

2009-10-01T04:34:00.000-07:00

It's October 1st! That means a few things in thrifty land

1. Coupons are reset! If there was one that you wish you could have a few more of, go now and see if they are still active! Be sure to check out smartsource too!

2. October is a no spend month for me! Eek! I already feel like someone has taken away my favourite vice! I can get through the month without spending anything. I have a couple of gift cards to help me pay the few cents that tax puts on my freebies. So I'm not totally alone!

Free Juicy Juice water bottle

2009-09-30T17:59:00.000-07:00

Juicy Juice is giving away free 14oz water bottles! Snag one before they are all gone, supplies are limited!

Meijer 9/27-10/3 My List

2009-09-27T11:20:00.001-07:00

Chex Mix or Cheerios Mix
TOTAL: .24 MM wyb 4!!!
SALE: 1.19
MQ: .50/1 insert
MB: $1/4

Ortega Seasoning Mixes
TOTAL: FREE
SALE: 20% off which is somewhere between .50-.65?
MQ: 1.00/2 insert or .75/2
MB: $1/4

Lysol Wipes
TOTAL: FREE
SALE: 1.50
MQ: 1.00/1 inserts
MB: $1/2

Lysol Neutra Air
TOTAL: FREE
SALE: 1.50
MQ: 1.00/1 inserts
MB: $1/2

Betty Crocker Frosting
TOTAL: FREE
SALE: 1.49
MQ: .50/1 inserts
MB: $1/2

Betty Crocker Warm Delights
TOTAL: FREE
SALE: 1.49
MQ: .50/1 inserts

Glade Fragrance Collection
TOTAL:FREE
SALE: $2.95
MQ: $3 Blinkies & $3 IP
MB: none
Store Doubles: yes

Green Giant Valley Steamers
TOTAL: free or .99 wyb 2
SALE: .99 each
MQ: $.50/1 or .50/2
MB:
Store Doubles: yes

Thank you Hot Coupon World

Meijer 9/27-10/3 ENTIRE AD

2009-09-27T08:11:00.000-07:00

Not the entire ad yet, Thanks Hot Coupon world!
$Chex Mix or Cheerios Mix
TOTAL: .24 MM wyb 4!!!
SALE: 1.19
MQ: .50/1 insert
MB: $1/4

Ortega Seasoning Mixes
TOTAL: FREE
SALE: 20% off which is somewhere between .50-.65?
MQ: 1.00/2 insert or .75/2
MB: $1/4

Lysol Wipes
TOTAL: FREE
SALE: 1.50
MQ: 1.00/1 inserts
MB: $1/2

Lysol Neutra Air
TOTAL: FREE
SALE: 1.50
MQ: 1.00/1 inserts
MB: $1/2

Betty Crocker Frosting
TOTAL: FREE
SALE: 1.49
MQ: .50/1 inserts
MB: $1/2

Betty Crocker Warm Delights
TOTAL: FREE
SALE: 1.49
MQ: .50/1 inserts
MB: $1/2

Propel Water
TOTAL: .39 a bottle...or free if you have the right coupons.
SALE: .59
MQ: .50/1
MB: $1/5

John Morrell Off the Bone Lunch Meat
TOTAL: 1.00 a tub wyb 2 tubs
SALE: 1.99
MQ: BOGO Found HERE

Kroger - On My List

2009-09-27T08:01:00.000-07:00

I only have a few days before our October no spend month so I can't order coupons this week. I am going to be picking up a couple of things.

4 Totinos Pizza rolls $.99ea
**$.40/2
-$2.40 $.60/ea

Pepsi & Dt. Dew $10

That's probably it. I see a few things at Meijer too.

Kroger 9/28-10/4 ENTIRE AD

2009-09-27T07:37:00.000-07:00

Thank you CiCi's mom at Hot Coupon World!
10/10 mix and match

Kroger Frozen Vegetables 9-12 oz

Barilla or Creamette Pasta
**Barilla Tortellini, Any - 08-23-09 SS (if included), 1.00/1, ex. 10/18/09
**Barilla Piccolini Pasta, Any - 08-23-09 SS, 1.00/2, ex. 10/18/09
**Barilla Whole Grain Pasta, Any - 08-23-09 SS, 1.00/2, ex. 10/18/09
**Barilla Whole Grain Pasta, Any - 08-23-09 SS, .50/1, ex. 10/18/09

Kroger 1/2 Gallon OJ

Angel Soft Bath Tissue

Frito lay Snacks 1.75-5 oz (pictured are doritos and lays)

Idahoan Potatoes select varieties 4-4.1 oz
**Idahoan Product, Any 13 Oz. Or Smaller .75/3

Brawny Paper Towels 1 roll
**Brawny Paper Towels, any package, .55/1, home mailer, ex. 12/31/09

Open Pit BBQ Sauce
**Open Pit Barbecue Sauce, Any Bottle, .35/1, ex. 3/31/10, hangtag

Armour Lunchmakers .75/3

Del Monte Fruit Naturals 7.5-8 oz
**Del Monte Fruit Naturals Cups, 8oz., Any (Bricks Link) 1.00/3
**Del Monte Fruit Naturals Cups, Any (Manf. Website - Bricks Coupon) 1.00/2

English Seedless Cucumbers

Tennessee Pride Sausage Gravy
**Tennessee Pride Product, any - 09-13-09 RP, 1.00/1, ex. 10/31/09 - I don't think this was in Ohio ads.
**Odom's Tennessee Pride, Any Product, tearpad, .50/1, ex. 3/31/10

Kroger Microwave Pizza 8 oz

Edy's Slow Churned 6 oz cip or Haagen-Dasz Ice Cream 4-4.25 oz cup
**Haagen-Dazs $1/3 single serve 4oz cups - no longer available

Star Kist Chunk Light Tuna 2.6-5 oz
**StarKist Pouch Products or StarKist Lunch To-Go, Any - 09-20-09 RP, 1.00/2, ex. 11/15/09
**Starkist Pouce Product, on any one (Instant Win Game) .50/1

Nestle Frozen Lemonade 12 oz cup

Kroger Ground Black Pepper 1.75 oz

Kroger Syrup 12 oz

Hunt's Pasta Sauce 26-26.5 oz

Kraft Easy Mac pr Kraft Mac and Cheese Shapes

Hunt's Ketchup 24 oz
**Hunt's Ketchup - All You, September 2009, 1.00/2, ex. 12/6/09
**Hunt's Tomato Ketchup, Any - ConAgra Foods $34 Savings, 1.00/2, ex. 9/30/09

SoBo Life Water
**Sobe Lifewater (20oz) product, .50/1, ex. 12/31/09, hangtag
**Sobe Lifewater, Any 20 Oz. Bottle, .50/1, tearpad, ex. 12/31/09

Propel Fitness Water 24 oz
**Propel bottle (any flavor) 24oz. (dnd-5), .50/1, tearpad, ex. 12/19/09

Nestle Hot Cocoa Mix 8-10 ct

Kroger Buns or Tender Twist Bread

Kangaroo Pita Pockets 12 oz

Gatorade Sports Drink 32 oz
**Buy Any Two 32oz Gatorade Thurst Quenching drinks and Get One Free Bag of Frito-Lay snacks ($.99 bag or smaller, any flavor/variety), teadpead, ex. 10/31/09
**Gatorade, G2 Or Tiger, Any 32 Oz. Bottles, 1.00/3, hangtag, ex. 12/31/09
**Gatorade, Any 32 Oz. Bottle, .50/1, tearpad, ex. 12/31/09
**Gatorade Tiger, Any 32 Oz. Or 16.9 Oz., .50/1, tearpad, ex., 12/31/09

Betty Crocker Cake Mix
**Betty Crocker Cake Mix And Betty Crocker Frosting, Any *Both* (A CouponGirls Sponsor - Coupons.com) .50/1

Rest of the ad....

Whole Boneless Strip Loin 3.99/lb

Tyson Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts 1.89/lb

London Broil or Top Round Roast 1.99/lb

Campbells Chicken Noodle or Tomato Soup or Kraft Mac and Cheese 7.25 oz box 2/1
**Campbell's Condensed Chicken Noodle Or Tomato Soup, Any - 09-13-09 SS, .40/4, ex. 12/15/09

Seedless Grapes .98/lb

Pepsi Soft Drinks 24 pk 2/10 wyb 2, limit 2 rewards per transaction
**Pepsi-Cola Brand, Any 24-Pack - Found On 24 Packs Of Pepsi Products, 1.00/1, peelie, ex. 12/31/09

7 up soft drinks (sunkist, 7up, A and W) 2 liters 4/4 but get 5th 2 liter free final cost .80 each, limit 2 rewards per transaction

Boneless Pork Sirloin Cutlets 1.79/lb

Private Selection Angus Ground Chuck 2.49/lb

Ball Park Hot Dogs any variety, 12.8-16 oz, BOGO save up to 4.39
**Ball Park Franks, Any (A CouponGirls Sponsor - RedPlum.com) 1.00/2
**Ball Park Franks, Any - Savings on Sara Lee Products, .55/1, booklet, ex. 10/15/09
**Ball Park Franks, Any - 08-30-09 RP, 1.00/2, ex. 9/30/09

Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage BOGO save up to 4.19
**Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage Links, Any (Sponsored By Miller Lite. NBPN) - Taste is Our Home Turf Booklet, winetag, 1.00/2, ex. 11/30/09

Hormel Black Label Bacon BOGO save up to 4.99

Bob Evams Sausage Links, Patties or Rolls 2/5

Honeysuckle Ground Turkey or Patties 2/5

Lloyd's BBQ or Chi Chi's Taco Meat BOGO save up to 6.49

Yoplait Yogurt 20/10

Kraft Singles or Kraft Cheeses bars or shredded 1.79

Buitoni Pasta or Sauce 2.99

Totinos Pizza Rolls .99
** $.40/2 9/20 & 9/13 insert (can't remember which one

Green Giant Vegetables frozen, select varieties 4/5
** $.50/1 steamers

Dannon Yogurt DanActive or Activia 4 packs 1.99

Edy's Ice Cream 48 oz or Skinny Cow Frozen Treats 4-12 ct 2.99

Mrs. Smith Pie 2.99

Pillsbury Grands, Crescents or Rolls 3/5

Pillsbury Toaster Strudels or Scrambles 1.99

Eggo 2.49

Lean Cuisine Entree or Stouffer's Entree 1.99

Bertolli Skillet Meal 5.99

Thomas English Muffins BOGO save up to 3.99

Pringles 4/5

Bartlett, Bosc or Red Pears .99/lb

Powerbar 10/10

RW Knudson Juice 32 oz BOGO save up to 4.99

Huggies Diapers 8.99

Free Mars Candy

2009-09-25T05:27:00.000-07:00

Today is the last Free Chocolate Friday! Be sure to get yours if you have already done it once you can do it again. Up to 4 per house!

Free Piece of Godiva

2009-09-25T05:24:00.000-07:00

Um. Chocolate.

Sign up with Godiva and once a month when you pass by the store in the mall you can stop in, show them your card and snag a free piece!

Coming Soon HyVee

2009-09-25T05:03:00.000-07:00

My parents are moving to South Dakota! Eek! My Dad was offered a job out there and he is driving out tomorrow! He, like many others, works for a company that makes parts for cars. With the mess that cars are in right now, his company has been laying off and firing people left and right. South Dakota seems to be less affected by the car and economy fiasco, and they are building a new plant near Sioux Falls.

To make my lemons into lemon-aid, I am going to start posting the HyVee deals. My mom isn't the thriftiest shopper (well you aren't) she is crafty and cans and gardens, but she has had 25 years of little hands throwing things in the cart and has lost her grocery edge. To help her out I am going to be posting the lists for HyVee starting next week!

Cheap Trick: Saving Electric

2009-09-24T05:52:00.000-07:00

My husband has had a lobotomy. Not really, but the way he has been acting you would think he has! I have finally infected him with the hippie virus and he is letting go of his materialism. He is selling everything. I mean everything. He has sold his 360, the Wii, a TV, most of his games and DVDs.

He has also started researching ways to live dirt cheap. Living as cheaply as he would like to is totally not possible for everyone. Like people who like hot showers.

His most recent discovery (and this was a facepalm moment for me) a full fridge uses less electricity! I knew this about freezers I don't know why I didn't think to apply it to fridges!. Keeping a fridge or freezer full you will lose less cool when you open the door, requiring less energy to get the temperature down again! Cold air rushes out, but cold things don't rush out. Well, they do sometimes, but you get them and put them back in. I know, you're looking at me like "Where is all the money going to come from to fill my whole fridge and freezer with food?" Ah, I didn't say full of food, I said full. What do we have lying around that is cheap and we should be storing anyway? Water. Gather up whatever thing you can keep water in, canning jars work well, as do old juice bottles (don't use milk jugs, they eventually disintegrate all over the place) and start filling empty spots in the fridge. Have a big meal planned and need more room in the fridge? Take out the water. No harm in letting it sit not refrigerated!

This has been your cheap trick of the day brought to you by the letter 'S'

Coming soon - "Socialism and Atheism, you say those words like they are bad things!"

And Now For Something Completely Different

2009-09-22T18:24:00.000-07:00

For those of you who know me IRL you know my humor is warped. I'm sorry in advance for those of you who are just now meeting me.

$1 off 10 Beechnut baby foods.

2009-09-21T05:11:00.000-07:00

Get a coupon for $1 off 10 Beechnut baby foods. My son is just now turning 5 months, and we are beginning to play with some apple sauce. He is a natural! With parents like us, it's no surprise the boy likes to eat!

Rachael Ray's Dog Food Sample

2009-09-21T04:28:00.000-07:00

Rachael Ray is giving away free samples of her Nutrish Dog food. Be sure to snag a sample for yourself! You can also print coupons for $3.50 off! Be sure to hit your back button and print two!

Free Samlple of Total

2009-09-21T04:25:00.000-07:00

Total Blueberry Pomegranate is giving away a free sample! Get your while you still can. I'm sure they come with a coupon tucked inside too!

Sam's Club Giveaway!

2009-09-03T18:31:00.000-07:00

Skip on over to Baby Goodbuys and enter her Sam's Club givaway! You can read all about it here.

DQ Blizzard Coupon

2009-09-03T14:01:00.000-07:00

Free Fruitista Freeze!

2009-09-03T04:13:00.000-07:00

Taco Bell is offering a coupon for a free fruitista freeze! The coupon is good through the end of the year so be sure to save it to your computer!

Half Priced Books Grand Opening in Beavercreek!

2009-09-02T20:44:00.000-07:00

Finally the husband and I don't have to drive to the Dayton Mall to get our book fix! Half Price Books is opening on Pentagon drive in Beavercreek tomorrow at 9am! The first 100 customers in the door opening weekend (Thursday-Monday) receive a tote bag with a $5 gift card! One lucky customer will have a $100 gift card!

I'm thinking about taking my lunch early tomorrow! ;)

Free Quaker Granola Bars

2009-09-02T05:42:00.000-07:00

Get a free sample of two Quaker Granola bars here!

Pampers Gifts to Grow Code

2009-09-02T05:29:00.000-07:00

There is a Pampers code good for one point! FREECODE0906EXP

Go to Pampers Gifts to Grow to register. They recently added a $10 Starbucks gift card if you are into Starbucks!

Sonic Birthday Club

2009-09-02T05:20:00.001-07:00

Sonic will give you a yummy freebie on your birthday! Just go here to sign up! Hopefully they will send coupons on our un-birthdays!

Free Picture Cards!

2009-09-01T08:14:00.000-07:00

Send Hope is offering free cards to help brighten someones day! I picked a photo card and sent one to my son's Great-Grandmother. She has some form of dementia or Alzheimer and having pictures to look at does her good. I hope she likes it! Visit cardstore.com select any card you would like and use the code SENDHOPE at checkout. They will mail your creation directly to the recipient!

Borders Sale

2009-09-01T07:15:00.000-07:00

Today and tomorrow only save 30% any one item at Borders with the online code BRT6505Y or the printable store coupon!

Frugal Tip

2009-09-01T04:14:00.000-07:00

The Husband and I are trying to get control of our debt. The best way to do this is to have a budget and stick to it. We have made countless budgets, but they all end the same way. All our money to bills, nothing for toys and games. :( All work and no play makes me a sad girl.
This month we have decided to go at things from a different angle. For the entire month of September (leading into our No-Spend month of October)we will both be putting all receipts in a central location so at the end of the month (and weeks) we can go back and see what was actually spent!
I know this is already working. I've been thinking about what I'm probably not going to buy/do this month because I don't want to have to turn in the receipt. Nothing big and marriage ruining, but little things (that add up) like when I go to Kroger I like to stop at McDonald's for an iced tea. It's just $1 but those are dollars that we could be putting to better use.
This month should prove to be an eye opener!

Free Betty Crocker Potatoes

2009-08-31T15:19:00.001-07:00

Betty Crocker is giving samples of either Au Gratin Potatoes or Garlic Mashed Potatoes! Go quick I have heard this promotion doesn't last long!

Free Astroglide

2009-08-31T11:23:00.000-07:00

Now, some of you may say "This isn't family friendly". Well, I say to you, my mother reads this blog! I thought about not posting this deal and then I decided to. If you just had a baby and are breastfeeding things aren't always as 'nice' as they used to be. Its a fact of life, breast feeding messes with your hormones. YOUR hormones, not your husbands... That's why I've decided to post!

Come one come all (hehe) get your free family friendly sample of Asrtoglide!

While I'm at it.... Trogan is offering freebies too! ;) Family planning is family friendly!

Swagbucks

2009-08-28T18:45:00.000-07:00

I want to let everyone in on some of the ways that I get "walking around" money. Swagbucks in one of them! To date I have gotten $50 in Amazon.com gift certificates since February. For doing nothing other then 'Googling' I do a fair amount of internet searching for my job, which helps, but even very casual users can build up tons of Swagbucks very quickly! If you are interested, click the widget. Its totally free (NEVER pay anyone anything to make money, that's insane) you're not going to quit your job over Swagbucks, but you can score yourself some Starbucks or even Target gift cards!

$10 Holla' Get if Quick Before It's Gone!

2009-08-28T18:37:00.000-07:00

Kenwood Towne Centre in Cinci is giving away $10 gift cards! Really. Go and sign up NOW there were only about 450 left at 9:30pm EST. They send you a confirmation email which you print and take to the customer service stand!

Tryology

2009-08-27T04:35:00.000-07:00

I'm super psyched about this one. Tryology is a company that receives products before they hit the market and lets YOU try them! They ask that you upload a video about your experience and you are either PAID or can keep the product! How cool! Right now, they are offering $25 for qualified participants to upload videos about their home entertainment system. They are taking applicants to try out Baby Signs!

Boarders Coupons

2009-08-27T04:13:00.000-07:00

Boarders books is offering quite a few book coupons! In store only today through the 30th get $10 off a hardcover, $10 off a computer book, $5 off A biography, (Ted Kennedy anyone?)History, CD, backpack, messenger bag or tote. $5 off purchase of 2 kids books, $2 off any fiction book, Free small drink with purchase of a bag of coffee. I know I have started collecting christmas gifts and I love giving books as presents!

Beechnut Starter Kit Freebie

2009-08-27T04:06:00.000-07:00

Beechnut is offering a starter kit free to all who sign up. It looks like it has the usual goodies, coupons, samples and maybe a jar of baby food or two!

Kroger Comforts $3.99

2009-08-25T17:46:00.000-07:00

Kroger Comforts diapers are on sale for $6.99 with the $3.00 off coupon from the Kroger site that makes them $3.99! If you use disposables this is a great deal! The other diapers on the shelf were $9.99+.

Free Breakfast at Mimi's Cafe

2009-08-25T10:43:00.000-07:00

If you join the Mimi's cafe Fun club you get breakfast on them! There is also a free dessert coupon!

Free Papa Johns

2009-08-25T10:33:00.000-07:00

This is the one and only time I wish I drove a Camero! If you show up at a Papa John's tomorrow driving your Camero, you get a free large one topping! All to celebrate Papa John finding his 1971 Z28 Camero that he sold 20 years ago to help keep his parents business a float. I know there are some cars that I wish could come back into my life! I can respect the love we harbor for lost cars!

If anyone with a Camero wants to go get pizza with me that would be great!

Dentaburst Freebie

2009-08-25T04:44:00.000-07:00

Dentaburst is offering a sample of their waterless anytime toothbrush!

Thanks Money Saving Mom!

Starbucks Birthday Club

2009-08-25T04:27:00.000-07:00

Free drink of your chioce from Starbucks on your birthday. Sign up your Starbucks card here. If you don't have a Starbucks card, sign up for Swagbucks and earn yourself one! You should probably sign up for swagbucks anyways. I have 'googled' my way to $75 in Amazon.com gift cards!

Cheap Trick: Free Reusable bags

2009-08-25T04:20:00.000-07:00

If you have always wanted to bring your own bags to the grocery or farmers market but are too cheap to spend the $.99 I commiserate. Good for you for not wanting to spend the money! Most companies have promotions where they give away their bags! I've gotten a Walgreens, Kroger, Target and now a Chi-Chi's reusable bags FREE. Most retailers have earth day promotions, but ChiChi's has decided to buck the system and offer a free bag in the middle of the year. If you go here and enter 2 UPCs you can score yourself a free bag! Don't have UPCs? 37600282253 43354007202 now you do. Be sure to key in the codes and do not copy paste!

Vista Print Lots of FFS!

2009-08-24T10:22:00.000-07:00

Vista Print is the cheapest place that I have found to get anything marketing related. Business cards are under $6 for 250, that's just shipping! They have everything for Return address lables to webpages! Check it out and Save 25-50% off on custom printed products at VistaPrint. Order today!

Cheap Kid Things at Target

2009-08-24T08:45:00.000-07:00

To deviate from my thrifty lifestyle, into the mainstream thrift, target is having some deals that even I can't pass up! Here is a list of the coupons with possible match-ups!

* $1.50 off jumbo pack or larger Huggies diapers (**With $3/1 from my coupons sidebar these are $6.50 or less a pack! I was sent a sample and they don't have the chemical smell other disposables have and are very soft!)
* $1 off jumbo pack or larger Luvs diapers
* $2.50 off purchase of both Pampers diapers or training pants and wipes
* $.75 off Earth's Best toddler cereal or snack (**$1/2 from Earths Best Site)
* $1 off purchase of two Gerber Graduates fruit juice, treats, Healthy Meals, Fruit Twists, or granola
* $1 off purchase of two Gerber Graduates Yogurt Melts, Mini-Fruits, Crunchies or Puffs
* $2 off 6-pk Boost Kids Essentials nutritional drinks
* $2 off 16 oz or larger Similac powder infant formula (**Sign up at Strong Moms and get checks for as much as $5 off furmula. Others will say that there is no rhyme or reason to who gets how much, but I believe it has to do with the age of your child and what company your local WIC is contracted with. I have a very young son, and our WIC uses Similac. I recieve almost no Similac coupons, but I get hordes of GoodStart!)
* $2 off Enfamil 23 oz or larger Enfamil or Next Steps in 12 oz or larger Nutramigen (Sign up at Enfamil and receive coupons and checks)
* $1 off Aveno baby toiletry (excludes trial size)
* $1 off Burt's Bees Baby Bee toiletry
* $2 off California Baby shampoo or bubble bath
* $1 off Desitin Diaper Rash ointment (excludes trial size)
* $1.50 off Huggies 184 ct or larger Huggies baby wipes
* $1 off Johnson's baby toiletry (excludes trial size)
* $.75 off Kandoo toddler toiletry or wipes
* $1 off Gerber feeding accessory (Sign up at Gerber and receive coupons and checks, I think I get something from them once a month!)
* $1 off Gerber onesies or layette
* $2 off Medela accessory purchase of $9.99 or more (excludes breast pumps)
* $1 off 2-pk 9 oz Platex insulator cups

I am a huge lactivist. I think that mothers owe it to their children to breast feed, and whenever I post about formula I will post links to breastfeeding support. Breast feeding in the best thing that you can do for your child! If you are struggling, consider contacting your area Women Infants and Children agency. The lactation consultants there are amazing, they will even help you get access to pumps, if needed. Then number for the Dayton Clinic is (937) 225-6166.
Also www.kellymom.com or call your local LeLeche League! The East Dayton LLL is 937-463-2030.
PLEASE CALL IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING GIVING UP BREASTFEEDING! You can also email me :) I exclusively breast feed my son, and pump at work. We had a very rough start so I have a few tricks in my bag! Breast feeding is hard, but don't give up!

Wendy's Coupon

2009-08-24T06:37:00.000-07:00

Wendy's has $1 off any Wendy's Premium Hamburger! You can never find fast food coupons! Leave me a comment with your email address and I will send it! It came from signing up with WendysMail. Be sure to sign up too!

Lots of $30 Kroger Giveaways!

2009-08-22T16:39:00.000-07:00

A lot of the blogs I follow are giving away $30 gift cards! its a great way to find a favorite thrifty blog, and score tons of groceries!

Visit Saving and Giving
Cheapie Cheapie expired
delicious mom

Kroger Mega Deal & Dayton Daily News Deal

2009-08-22T09:12:00.000-07:00

The Kroger Mega Deal was good to me today. The Dayton Daily News had their booth set up in the breezeway offering Thursday and Sunday subscriptions for $5.59 plus a $10 Kroger gift card! I have actually been waiting for this promotion. It was ran back in the spring when my son was born and I didn't get an opportunity to take advantage of it.

At the Mega Deal I got

4 Trix cereal
6 Chicken/Hamburger helper
Chiquta carrot bites
horison chocolate milk single
2 lbs Bacon

all for $1.98!!

Earth's Best Coupons

2009-08-21T06:23:00.000-07:00

While I firmly believe that women owe it to their children to breast feed. I also know that some mothers need to use formula. If we had a social system that allowed mothers to stay with their nurselings... but that is for another day.

Earth's best has a $5 off Their Organic Infant formula coupon along with $1 off wipes $1 2 boxes of cookies and $1 10 babyfood jars.

$60 Tire Rebate

2009-08-21T05:58:00.001-07:00

This Michelin rebate couldn't have come at a better time. My Jetta is in desperate need of new tires! If you go to Friends for Savings you can print your $60 rebate form!

Thanks Short On Cents!

10 Free Business Cards

2009-08-21T05:43:00.000-07:00

If you have a budding business and wished you had just a couple business cards on the cheap, nows your chance to strike!

Moo Custom Business Cards if offering 10 cards FREE! They even offer recycled paper!

Thanks Money Saving Mom!

Walgreens

2009-08-20T10:52:00.000-07:00

I'm making a Walgreens trip to night to take advantage of cheap wipes and free prints!

There s a back to school catalogue with a $2/1 Huggies wipes coupon and I have quite a few$.75/1 mailer coupons. It should be free wipes for me!

They are also having a promotion for free prints with the code 20freeforme I think I will make pictures of the baby and send then to grandparents!

Kmart Doubles AGAIN!!

2009-08-20T08:43:00.000-07:00

The Dayton area Kmarts are doubling coupons again at the end of the month! If you missed out on cheap to freebies on this past doubles week, hold on to your high dollar coupons, its coming around again!

Jillian's Drawers Summer Sale

2009-08-20T08:35:00.000-07:00

Jillian's Drawers, the home of the $10 Cloth Diaper Trial Kit, is having a HUGE summer sale! Included are $10 Fuzzi Bunz, $11 BumGenius, $8 Happy Heiny's and way more! If you need diapers you don't want to miss this sale.

My Personal recommendation is for the Fuzzi Bunz. They are an amazing babysitter diaper. They snap on and are one piece. Nothing for the sitter to fold or pin. Just prestuff a few and send them along! They are my husbands favorite.

If you have little ones in diapers and have been thinking about cloth, check out their Try Cloth for $10 deal. They send NEW diapers to your house and for $10 and shipping, you get to try out some of the number one brands and about every style of diaper there is!

No Updates

2009-08-19T10:08:00.000-07:00

The server at work is down. I have to put out fires. I will update on the Kmart doubles trip tomorrow (hopefully)

No Spend October!

2009-08-18T04:19:00.000-07:00

As a money saving technique Husband and I have decided to make October a no spend month. To facilitate no spend months, I use the preceding months collecting gift cards. I have my sights on a $30 card from Short On Cents. That would almost be like cheating!

Carseat "Deal"

2009-08-14T07:02:00.001-07:00

I have no love for Britax, but amazon has a decent deal on the Britax Diplomat Convertible Car Seat. These seats only are rated for 40 lbs, so... 2 months of forward facing? Every child, and car, is different. If you've always wanted this seat (and they are very popular) nows the time to go for it!

Lets Go Krogering!

2009-08-13T06:09:00.000-07:00

This is your intro to Krogering in the Miami Valley. Other Krogers may do things slightly different.

Coupon Rules- Kroger accepts all manufacturer and internet coupons. You can use one coupon per item. Remember this for buy one get one (BOGO) deals. Especially BOGO coupons. You CAN use a BOGO and a $/off. Example, you have a BOGO apple juice and a $1/1 apple juice. You go to the juice isle, pick up two juices and use both coupons. Some cashiers will try to tell you because the 2nd is free you have to pay full price on the first, thats incorrect.
REMEMBER- always use coupons for good. Don't clean out store, don't buy things with the intention of selling them on ebay, don't photocopy coupons, don't alter or otherwise try to defraud. Its poor etiquite at the least, and a crime at the worse.

Doubling- Kroger doubles unlimited to $1 MEANING any coupon .50 or more is worth $1 at Kroger. $.49 or less is worth doule the face value. Example, if you have 15 coupons for $.50 off apple juice, they will make all 15 worth $1. If you have a $.35/off it becomes worth $.70/off if you have $.75/off it becomes $1.

Rewards Program- Kroger has the Kroger Plus Card (KPC) as their shopper rewards program. NEVER go to Kroger without your KPC. There are a few things that you can do with your KPC. First, you get the "members price".
Second you get fuel points. Once you accumulate 100 fuel points you get $.10 off a gallon at the Kroger Fuel Station. In my experence the Kroger station is the same price as the other stations, so you really are recieving $.10 off, not just a discount on an inflated price.
Third is built in coupons. Visit Cellfire, Proctor and Gamble eSaver and Shortcuts to load coupons onto your card. These coupons do not double.

Printable coupons - I put the links for printable coupons in my side bar for ease of use!

Happy Krogering!

KMart Super Doubles

2009-08-13T04:22:00.000-07:00

The Blogosphere is a buzz that K-mart is doing a super double promotion. I have yet to verify this with my local store but its always a good time when they do double! Once I know more about this I will update. You may want to get your high dollar coupons in order. There were tons added recently and some exclusive to K- Mart!

Cheap Oil Changes!

2009-08-12T11:52:00.000-07:00

Penzoil is offering a rebate of $5-$15 off oil changes! If you get your oil changed at Jiffy Lube and use their $5 off coupon thats $20 off a full synthetic oil change! If you are a 10w-30 girl like myself, its half that, but oil changes don't cost much more then $10! Plus, when was the last time you changed the oil in your car? You need this!

Its Wednesday! I'm thinking Arby's!

2009-08-12T08:32:00.000-07:00

Every Wednesday Arby's has a free item. This week is

Free roast chicken club with a drink purchase! Pretty sweet deal!

Be sure to register with Arby's Extras to get coupons!

Kashi Honey Sunrise

2009-08-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

Get a coupon for $1.50/1 Kashi Honey Sunrise.

I have only tried the Kashi Go Lean, but it was amazing as I am sure the Kashi Honey Sunrise is also! Leave me a comment about how you like it if you happen to snag a box!

You can get a $1.50/2 for Kashi Go Lean Crunch here.

Your First Mission

2009-08-11T04:25:00.000-07:00

Here we go! Ready to start saving money? I gave you the JCPenny $10 info, but thats easy, everyone is used to saving with a code at checkout. Now for something a little more complicated. Target.

If you have a Super Target in your area, which I don't, you can take advantage of $.50 off a pound of Bananas. In my area bananas usually run about $.50 a pound, so unless Super Targets really hike up the banana prices you should be golden. If I make another run out I may stop by and see if the Beavercreek Target carries bananas, but I'm not holding my breath they do.

Another thing my Target doesn't carry is apples which you can get FREE with this coupon

If you want to print more then one coupon visit Hot Coupon World's Coupon Generator to print on one page and save paper. You will have to make multiple trips, Target will only accept one of their coupons at a time. Your manager may vary.

Also, Aunt Jemima Syrup was on clearance at my Target and there is a $1.50/2 coupon here My husband was with me and I didn't get to see the recipt, but I believe they came out to $2 a piece. You can get cheaper syrup, but we like the good stuff!

If you live in an area that got the SmartSource flier in the paper this week, there is a $6/1 for Airwick Fresmatic or iMotion starter kit making them FREE.
In the 8/9 smartsource there is also a $1/2 Bic Pens coupled with the $1/2 Target coupon maks for a tidy money maker!
If you are intrested in ordering inserts or individual coupons from inserts our area doesn't recieve of if you paper was missing the coupons (I'm on to you news-paper-stuffer-lady) visit Coupons and Things by Dede I will talk more about ordering coupons later if you are feeling a little overwhelmed.

Other Target deals we CAN get in on are

Kotex Liners (48 count) Free!
$2/1 Target coupon in 7/26 SmartSource
and $1/1 coupon in the 7/26 RedPlum insert

Kellogg's Pop Tarts ~ $.22
$0.75/1 Target coupon here You can try and use two, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't
Plus, use $1/2 in 8/2 Kellogg's insert or $0.55/1 here

Kellogg's Cinnabon Bars $.75
$1/1 here

Cottonelle Travel Size Wipes FREE
$1/1 in 6/7 SmartSource
I can't remember if we got this insert, but there are a million of these coupons out and about from mailers.

All Trave Size FREE
here

It is reported that Rayovac batteries are in the dollar bins and there is a $1/1 in the 6/21 SmartSource, but I have never had luck with finding batteries in the dollar bins.

Happy Hunting!

The three 'Rs' Recycle

2009-08-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

I have a HUGE confession to make.

I don't recycle.

I know. I know. I compost, I cloth diaper, I have my own grocery bags, if its yellow I let it mellow ;D, I reuse things until they fall apart, but for some reason I never got into the habit of recycling. You know what makes this even stranger? I recycle at work. Yep, I collect all the cans that we make at work and donate them to the local no-kill shelter (Tenth Life in Xenia (937) 376-5550 if you want to donate or adopt!)

So this is my challenge to myself and all of you. Start a recycling program in your house! Here are the steps, I will do these steps for the Dayton Ohio area and report back!

1. Check in your area to see where and what is recycled.
2. Decide on collection/ storage bins
3. USE the system!

Here is a great leaflet by the EPA

$1 off Lactaid

2009-08-10T11:07:00.000-07:00

I wanted to say that in a previous post I stated that Lactaid never goes on sale or has coupons. Well, the coupon gods heard me and decided to let one (just ONE) Lactaid coupon slip. It can be found here.

As always, use coupons for good! DO NOT make illegal photocopies it ruins it for everyone. You may need to download a safe and non obtrusive application. I run FireFox, you may have troubles with my links when viewing in IE. To move into the 20th century and download FF go here.

Sorry

2009-08-10T05:41:00.000-07:00

I'm really sorry that I didn't get my Part One up on Sunday, (like anyone noticed) I'm sick as a dog. I think I may have eaten something. I'm probably leaving early today.

Part One: The Allmighty Coupon

2009-08-09T07:54:00.000-07:00

I'm sure many of you are like me and you are thinking that the only people who use coupons are blue haired old ladies. You couldn't be more incorrect! I'm 25 and have dreadlocks and a baby strapped to me and I only shop with coupons!

Let me tell you why and how you can too!

First why- Advertising is BIG business. Advertisers will spend millions to get you to buy their product, millions more to become brand loyal. Our job as couponers, is to 'work' this system. It is work! I spend a chunk of time searching and getting deals every week. Its not extra time, its time that I used to spend wondering the isles of the grocery store wondering what we wanted for dinner. Or it is time I would have just spend surfing the internet while the baby nurses! If you invest this time, and some scissor action, you can provide high quality products for pennies to your family.

I want to speak a moment to brand loyality. Stop it. It has no place in a frugal lifestyle. There is no difference between Pampers and Huggies when you get them for under $1. It is wasteful to pay full price for an item because you prefer one brand over another. Especially with disposable products. That is a blog for another day.

Now the How-

Step one today is Sunday, go get a newspaper. We will start with one but once you get a little better at it you may want to pick up more than one.
Now that you have your coupons cut them all out (don't throw the rest of the paper away you will need it) and think about how you would like to organize them. By product? By isle in your favourite store? Alphabetically? Whatever you choose is up to you. I have never found a good coupon organization scheme. So If you have one that you are dying to share, let me know.
This is where you shouldn't get ahead of yourself. DO NOT run out and get a store bought coupon binder. That is the opposite of doing it for less. I have my husbands old Magic the Gathering binder, sure I feel like a super geek when I grocery shop, but you will get over that.
I will make a suggestion that the baseball card layout works well for many people. I will call it the 'advanced' method of storing coupons. There is nothing wrong with the accordion style, I use one to sort coupons out by store.
Once you have scavenged something to put your coupons in (if you just have nothing envelopes work well. No you aren't allowed to buy those either, use the ones that the junk mail came in!) put them in!

Step Two Pull the ads out! If you have a spouse, he will probably be waiting for the Best Buy ad.

Step Three This is the meat and potatoes of deal hunting. Go through your coupons and match up the sales and the coupons. Don't be discouraged if there are only 2 or 3 things that match, where there are usually more then this, sometimes there is a slow week. You will learn to appreciate slow weeks and take some time for yourself!
Be sure to use all resources available to you! If you are reading this then you obviously have internet access! Check here for weekly deals geared to the southern Ohio area (Kroger, Meijer, Target, CVS and Walgreens with an occasional dollar store and Cubs thrown in). Check other blogs and find yourself some websites you like A Full Cup and Hot Coupon World are excellent places to get your feet wet!
While you are scouring the ads and the internet be sure you are writing everything down! You will need a list to shop from, which brings me to my next step,

Step Four ONLY BUY WHAT IS ON YOUR LIST. This means leave your kids and husband at home. They are terrible for throwing things in the cart. Never pay full price for anything!! While you are at the store, alone, or with children that haven't learned the words "mommy can we get.." Keep your eyes out for unadvertised deals and check out the clearance sections. Coupons are good on clearance things too! This is the one time that you are allowed to deviate from your list. I look at it this way, had you known about the sale, you would have put it on your list!

Step Five Stock pile. You need to dedicate an area(s) of you house to storing food and home and body items. I have shelves that I scavenged in the upstairs of my cape cod (read: silly slanted walls, almost wasted space) Aim to store 3-6 months of an item. It is generally accepted that items go on sale every 3ish months. There are times that you will want to store a years worth. Anything that is nonperishable and seasonal, Back to School, Summer, Christmas, holidays, you will want to take advantage of these times and store a years worth.

Step Six Enjoy a smaller grocery bill!

Now that I have the basics out of the way I can start posting the deals that I find!

JCPenny Back to School Deals!

2009-08-07T17:55:00.000-07:00

JCPenny is having a spectacular deal where hopefully there will be an opportunity to score some free back to school clothing! Or in my case, new underwear for my husband!

Monday - Saturday, August 10-22 get a $10 instant gift on a purchase of $10 or more!
When ordering online use code GET4BTS when prompted at checkout. You have to have the paper coupon to buy in store, so If you haven't be sure to sign up at JCPenny rewards so you don't miss out again!

Don't forget to sign up for ebates and get an additional 5% back!

Happy Birthday Mom

2009-08-07T09:03:00.000-07:00

I have a thrifty birthday present planned for my mom that I know she will love. I will post a how-to later if anyone is interested in a thrifty birthday present for their mom too. I don't want to spoil the surprise for my mom. ;)

Do Not Abuse Government Programs

2009-08-07T07:37:00.000-07:00

Being thrifty is not being a bum. Many people mistake cheapness with being poor. Being poor is a state of mind. As with all things, you are what you allow yourself to be. If you are a bum that rides the system, tut tut. If you are a 2 parent house that both work, penny pinch and cut corners but still can't quite make ends meet, you're in good company. There are million like you, and while government programs get a bad rap from the vocal minority that abuse them, the majority it the latter of my examples rather then the former.

Government programs are established to help the community and people who are in hard times. While I won't pretend that I am in 'hard times' I also won't pretend that I have a golden spoon in my mouth. If you are eligible for a government program and could improve yourself with the help, by all means go for it. You are the person that this was established to help! Go out for the Pell Grant and get an education, enroll in WIC and utilize the lactation consultants to help your breastfeeding relationship and give your baby the best start in life while reducing the risk of obesity, illness and allowing him to obtain his maximum IQ, among a host of other things. DO NOT sit on a program with no intention of bettering yourself. If you find you are still on foodstamps 2 years down the road, in the same situation you were, kick yourself in the pants and do better for yourself! I've decided to share my story about receiving government aid because you never hear the good stories.

My son and I receive WIC, and while I am against living your life based around government programs, I do have to sing WIC's praises.
With WIC we are eligible for basics like, breakfast cereal, cheese, Lactaid, eggs, peanut butter etc. Without WIC we would NOT eat things like breakfast cereal, cheese, or Lactaid. They are just too expensive and rarely if ever go on sale or have coupons.
Also, the lactation consultants and peer counselors are a godsend. When Baby S was only days old he had super high bilirubin levels (jaundice). The pediatrician wanted us to formula feed which was something that I was not prepared to do. I cried a lot that my milk hadn't come in and I couldn't provide for my baby. I called our local WIC office and she was wonderful. She explained to me how jaundice works, why babies get it how to get rid of it and that I still will have an opportunity to breastfeed, it just may be a little more difficult in the beginning.

At our first scheduled appointment Baby S and I were doing much better. We were nursing with only the usual first timer hangups. I mentioned that I would have to return to work shortly and was immediately provided with paperwork on how to get a double electric breast pump. I did some research and choose the Ameda Purely Yours which I use four times a day and love. Well, as much as you can love a pump.

Breastfeeding is the cheaper and superior food for babies. While WIC will provide formula for your loved one, if you choose (or medically require) formula you will not receive the expanded food package for breastfeeding women. So, the thriftier thing to do would be to breastfeed and take advantage of the expanded food package!

I'm very pleased to say that Baby S is 100% breastfed. I pump while I am at work and Daddy feeds Baby S bottles of breast milk.

The thought that spurred this post was this weekend I am headed back to the farmers market. For the 2009 season WIC eligible families can receive $15 worth of vouchers for farm fresh produce! See you there!

Sunday Sunday Sunday!

2009-08-06T07:52:00.000-07:00

Sharpen your coupon scissors! Sunday I am debuting my first post in a series of educational posts; "Part One: The Almighty Coupon" Here I will share with you my secrets of the great and powerful coupon!

Maiden Voyage

2009-08-05T07:07:00.000-07:00

Good morning future readers! I want to start blogging to you all to let you know how I do it. I would like to think that I do it pretty well too! I'm going to start off with a series of posts each dedicated to something that I do to save money, time, the environment and my sanity.
Sanity is the fun topic, it includes how I keep together a marriage, raise my family, take time for myself and juggle full time work out of home and family, and blogging of course! So stay tuned! The first installment is on its way!