The Coupon Clipping Cutie

Updating

2010-08-09T22:16:00.000-07:00

Okay, couponers, I'm going to try to revive this site a little more. I definitely won't be able to post as religiously as when I started, but I admit it, I've been finding some pretty great deals lately and haven't posted them.

Now when I find the reallllly good deals, I'll be posting them. At LEAST that.

If you miss reading my posts, you can read some things from me of a different flavor at http://novelin100days.blogspot.com/

I'm trying to write a novel in 100 days, thus less time to post on couponing. My credential classes also start back up in September alongside student teaching and a possible part time job... yikes!!

I miss you, couponers. I'll be posting here more often.

Why I Don't Buy

2010-07-16T13:52:00.000-07:00

It's been so long since I've updated this, I'm feeling really bad!
So here are a couple money saving tips that I practice on a regular basis, and I'm continually try to learn more.

-I never buy envelopes
     -Take this generic envelope shown below. I got this envelope for free, that's right! free. I pay my bills
      online, so when I receive bills in the mail with correspondence envelopes included, I save the
      envelopes, and don't ever have to buy them. I admit, I bought some at Staples for a dollar during
      their dollar days back before I learned this handy tip, but these days, I just open my bills!

-I cut my fabric softeners in half
     -Most people I know use fabric softeners more than once, which is a great way to save on money.
      An added savings is to cut those fabric softeners in half. By cutting them in half, your laundry still
      receives all the benefits, but you have twice as many! I still use them more than once, too. My
      laundry comes out the same as it would had I used a whole sheet, so you're getting 50% off the cost!

What sorts of money saving strategies do you use?

Much Delayed Vons Deal

2010-05-05T10:21:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the long gap there!

I'm not sure I'll be able to update again soon, but I did say I was going to update about my Vons deal, so here it is.

Went to Vons a couple of weeks ago, spent $51 and saved $50!

I got some top sirloin that was originally $29.58 for $8!! It was on sale per pound for about $10, and I had a $2 off coupon!

It was the yummiest stroganoff I've ever had too!

Sorry for the lack of updates. Make sure you're checking out those blogs on my blogroll. A bunch of amazing women who keep up their blogs!

Our House

2010-04-18T22:45:00.000-07:00

How neglectful am I?!
I totally forgot to even post about this: Cutie Husband and I are in escrow!

We are purchasing (God willing) a beautiful home in a neighborhood we love!

Escrow should close within the month.

Sorry I forgot to update about that!

Life's been crazy between schooling and work and getting a house.

Anyhow, I thought especially those who gave advice would be interested to know.

Wait 'til you hear about my Vons trip from today... it was amazing! My top sirloin deal is enough to get hats off from any couponer! I got another great "check-your-receipt-before-you-leave-the-parking-lot" stories again too! This time, Cutie Husband caught our error!

I'll try to post that soon. In the meantime, make sure you check out the blogs on my blogroll. Some amazing women out there saving those hard-earned dollars!

This Week in Cutie News

2010-04-11T15:08:00.000-07:00

Just got back from the grocery where I spent $60 at Vons and saved $40. I was very pleased with this total because all that we buy at the grocery store now is things for dinner, really. We almost never purchase toiletries etcetera at the grocery store anymore.

This price for dinners for the week was fantastic in my opinion.

Some of what we wound up buying was:

4 Hass Avocados at $1 each

London Broil at $1.97/lb, our's was around $8 total and that will give us one meal for just us two and another meal for us AND Cutie Sister-in-law #1 and Cutie Brother

Macaroni and Cheese was 4/$5, which wasn't great but because I'm in school I need quick easy to throw together makeshift meals

A gallon of milk

Campbell’s Condensed Tomato or Chicken Noodle Soup, 10.75 oz, $.50 (We used a printable $1/2 coupon to get these FREE! I'm going to try to print some more and get a couple more when I go back to the store tomorrow for my rain-checked crab meat)

V8 Red or V-Fusion Juice, 46 oz, $2.49 (Limit 8)
Use $.50 from 3/14 SS
Use $1 V8 V-Fusion Coupon and here
Final Price: $1.49

Prego Pasta Sauce, 23-.5-24 oz, $1.25 (Limit 4)
Use $.50/2 from 2/7 SS
Final Price: $.75

Russet Potatoes, 10 lb, $.99 ea (Limit 2)

Trans Ocean Crab Classic, 8 oz, $.99 (Limit 2) (We got rain-checked on this 'til tomorrow)

Use $1 Trans Ocean Coupon
Final Price: Free

Knorr Lipton Rice or Pasta Sides, 4.3-6.4 oz, $.89 (Limit 10)

Rancher’s Reserve Top Round London Broil, $1.77 lb
Use $2/$10 Rancher’s Reserve Coupon (Christian Clippers!)

So one of my hugest struggles is finding meals to coordinate with the sales. This requires extreme flexibility on meal planning, but knowing when flexible ends and breaking the bank begins. You have to be able to change things up if you find a better deal, but recognize that just because one component of a meal is on sale, does not mean that the rest of the ingredients won't be pricey.

So this week in meals:

Monday: Corn and Crab Chowder

Tuesday: Tacos

Wednesday: Leftover Corn and Crab Chowder

Thursday: Taquitos

Friday: Variety Night

(I usually leave one night open to finish up leftovers or go out or to a friend's for dinner)

So originally I planned to make Poppyseed Chicken Casserole (delicious, if you were wondering!!!). But I found that not many of the ingredients for this meal would be on a great sale. When we got to the store, I saw that london broil was indeed marked on sale and was just unbeatable.

Side Note!! Anytime that I see london broil on a good sale ($2/lb or less) I always snatch it up because this will produce two meals for us! Tacos and taquitos, both of which are pretty easy.

So in addition to the meat sale, potatoes were on an unbeatable sale: great for my chowder, great for my tacos (I put potatoes in my taco meat just like Cutie Mom).

Knorr pasta and rice sides were on sale, so I got two sides of taco rice, which will be great for both tacos and taquitos. I love when one sale covers more than one meal!

Hass avocados were on sale, so there's some homemade guacomole for the taquitos! Now, even though they're not very ripe I bought them anyways because in guacomole, you smash them so they don't need to be too ripe. Plus, we're not using them 'til Thursday, perfect!

The entire chowder idea came about when I saw that crab meat was on sale. Crab meat is such a treat that it's good to buy it when it's on such a good sale, or in this case free!

So despite my preconceived notions of what I would like to cook this week, I was willing to change it up a little bit to get the better deals. You cannot have cemented meal plans when you coupon. You can have a plan, but you must be willing to alter your plan a little bit here and there.

Hope this helps anyone who has a hard time figuring out how to meal plan on the spot in the middle of aisle 7! It took me a while to figure it out myself.

Remember, couponing is about saving yourself money, it shouldn't be stressful. If you need to buy something but don't have a coupon, don't worry, just get it. You won't always have a coupon for everything. And don't buy something just because you have a coupon!! You're trying to save money, not throw it away on things you have no use for. Resist the temptation!

And if you're a big couponer like me, you'll often end up with those coupons you won't use. I give my coupons away freely. Cutie Mom and Cutie Sister-in-law #1 end up with many of those coupons I just won't use. If you're even braver, look in the grocery carts of people behind and in front of you. If you happen to see something you have a coupon for, offer it to them. They'll appreciate the gesture, and you don't have to waste a coupon.

Enjoy!! I know we will! ;]

Check back later in the week for photo postings of my chowder, tacos, and (hopefully) taquitos!

Kmart Double Deals

2010-04-05T17:59:00.000-07:00

Kmart is doubling coupons right now up to $2. This means LOTS of free stuff!! And lots of stuff for around $.50 or so too.

I've spent the last two days rummaging through Kmart getting deals I already knew about, and scavenging for extras!

Now, I signed Cutie Husband up for a rewards card AND Cutie Mom, so I was able to have the cashiers (they were really nice at my store both days) use different numbers for the different transactions.

Here's how I did across five transactions:

#1)

This transaction was a little harry, being my first one. I wasn't sure the order to do things in, and it ended up being a bit of a mess.
In the end, they accidentally charged me for one product that was supposed to be on the other transaction, but willingly reimbursed me later that evening after I found the error. Word to the wise: CHECK YOUR RECEIPT BEFORE YOU LEAVE THE PARKING LOT!!!!

So here's what I got:

Right Guard Total defense 2/$5
Used $2/2 coupon
Final Price: $.50 each, so $1

Degree Girl or for Men Deodorant $2.99
Use $1.25/1 HERE or HERE
Final Price: .49 each, bought 2 so $.98

Soft Scrub Total $2.99 (Accidentally not pictured here, but on the next transaction)
Use $1.50/1 from 3/7 RP
Final Price: Free

Total at register: $13.97

Total paid out of pocket: $2.68

Total savings: $11.29

#2)

Remember, the Soft Scrub was on the last transaction. :]

Jergens Lotion $3
Use $1/1 3/7 SS
Final Price: $1

Gillette Body Wash $4.49
Use $2/1 from 3/7 P&G
Final Price: .49

Degree Girl or for Men Deodorant $2.99
Use $1.25/1 HERE or HERE
Final Price: .49

Dove Ultimate Deodorant $3.79
Use $2/1 HERE
Final Price: FREE

Suave Deodorant $1.99
Use .75/1 from 3/14 SS
Final Price: .49

Total at register: $16.95

Total paid out of pocket: $3.00

Total savings: $13.95

#3)

Gillette Custom 3 Plus, 4ct $5.49
Use $2/1 (different varieties listed)
Final Price: $1.80

Total at register: $5.97

Total paid out of pocket: $1.80

Total savings: $4.17

#4)

Revlon Tweezers $1.99
Revlon Nail Files $1.49
Use $1/1 Beauty Tool from 3/7 SS (expires 4/10)
Final Price: FREE

Dove Ultimate Deodorant $3.79
Use $2/1 HERE
Final Price: FREE

Ziploc Containers 2/$5
Use $1.50/2 coupon
Final Price: $1 each, so $2

Total at register: $15.84

Total paid out of pocket: $4.08

Total savings: $11.76

#5)

Clean and Clear Astringent $4.49

Use $2/1 Clean & Clear Product printable
Final Price: $0.49

Total at register: $4.88

Total paid out of pocket: $.71

Total savings: $4.17

Altogether, throughout all of my transactions:

Total at register: $57.61

Total paid out of pocket: $12.27

Total savings: $45.34

79% Savings

Easter Deals

2010-04-04T23:27:00.001-07:00

So I had some amazing finds at Kmart today as my family celebrated Easter yesterday. As much saving as we all do, aren't we most thankful for the saving Jesus did when He died on the cross for our sins! Praise God!!!

So tomorrow, check back for some amazing deals I scored from Kmart. I also did massive amounts of laundry at my mom's house, so maybe I'll post some pictures of giant laundry piles, you never know.

I was also able to score an absolutely fantastic deal on some razors, and discovered some leniency in the coupon policy. Come back tomorrow, and I'll update you!

Have a great rest of your Easter, and thanks for stopping by!

Enjoy!!

Kmart Super Doubles Event

2010-04-02T13:41:00.000-07:00

Kmart is going to be doubling coupons up to $2 in value start Sunday though April 10, so I've already picked out my deals!
My Frugal Adventures has way more deals than shown here!
Enjoy!!

Soft Scrub Total $2.99
Use $1.50/1 from 3/7 RP
Final Price: Free
Gillette Body Wash $4.49
Use $2/1 from 3/7 P&G
Final Price: .49

Glade Sense and Spray $3.50
Use $3/1 from 3/28 SS
Final Price: .50 (this won’t count toward your 5 item limit PLUS you can submit for the rebate HERE for $5 when you buy 3!)

Suave Deodorant $1.99
Use .75/1 from 3/14 SS
Final Price: .49
Degree Girl or for Men Deodorant $2.99
Use $1.25/1 HERE or HERE
Final Price: .49
Lysol Neutra Air $3.65
Use $1.50/1 from 3/7 SS (expires 4/5!)
Final Price: .65
Reach Toothbrush $2.01-2.84
Use $1/1 from 3/7 RP or HERE
Final Price: .01-.84
Reach Toothbrush $2.01-2.84
Use $1/1 from 3/7 RP or HERE
Final Price: .01-.84
Jergens Lotion $3
Use $1/1 3/7 SS
Final Price: $1
Dove Ultimate Deodorant $4.69
Use $2/1 HERE
Final Price: .69
Glade Relaxing Moments Air Freshener $2.99
Use $1/1 from 2/28 SS
Final Price: .99 and submit rebate HERE for $5 when you buy 3

Thanks, My Frugal Adventures!

Super Deal Day!

2010-03-31T10:59:00.000-07:00

I got a bunch of those fantastic deals I was going for! All but the Biz laundry detergent, but supplemented those with some other great deals I found!

So here's how and what I did:

Target:

Glade Scented Oil Candles, $2.54
Used: $2/2 coupon, also applied to below
Final Price: $1.54

Glade Scented Oil Candles Holder, $2.99
Used: $2/2 coupon, also applied to above
Final Price: $1.99

Glade Fragrance Collection Candle, $$2.54
Used: $2 off any Glade Product from the coupon booklet they mailed me
Final Price: $.54

Total at register: $8.78

Total paid out of pocket: $4.78

Total savings: $4.00

Rite Aid:
I had to go to Rite Aid two different times because the first Rite Aid didn't have one of the products I needed.
So here we go!

#1 Trip

Soleil Twilight Razors, $4.99
Used: $2/1 coupon
$2 SCR (single check rebate, sent at the end of the month)
Final Price: $.99 after rebate, OOP was $2.99

Air Wick Imotion Scented Oil, $9.99 50% off ($4.99)
Used: $4/1 coupon
Final Price: $.99

Total at register: $15.85

Total paid out of pocket: $4.85

Total savings: $11.00

#2 Trip

Lysol No-Touch Hand Soap System, $14.99 50% off ($7.49)
Used: $5/1 manufacturer's coupon
$1 ad value coupon
Final Price: $1.49

I bought a Snickers as well because I wasn't sure if you could have more coupons than products (I know at Walgreens you can't) so I just figured I'd add it in anyways.

Snickers, $.88
On sale for $.50

Total at register: $15.87

Total paid out of pocket: $2.65

Total savings: $13.22

TOTAL

Total at register: $40.50

Total paid out of pocket: $12.28

Total savings: $28.22

Target Deal

2010-03-29T20:28:00.000-07:00

So here was my deal at Target the other day:

3 Kotex, $1.02 each, $3.06
Used: 3 $1/1 coupons
Paid: $.06

Dial Complete, $1.82
Used: 1 $.35/1 Target coupon and $.35/1 manufacturer's coupon

Total at register: $4.88

Total paid out of pocket: $1.18

Total savings: $3.70

76% savings

Deals I'm Working On

2010-03-29T20:19:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, I'm going to try to get several deals:

Target
#1) Biz Laundry Detergent

Right now, Biz Laundry Detergent is 2/$5 at Big Lots. If your particular Target agrees to price matching, you can pick this product up at Target for $2.50. In the 3/28 SS, there is a coupon for $3/1 Biz detergent. There is also a printable $2/1 coupon here.
In the end, you can pick up two laundry for $.50.
Most Target establishments will lower the value of a coupon, so they can lower the one for $3.
I would most definitely (and plan to!) bring a copy of Target' coupon policy, as with most establishments.

Thanks, My Frugal Adventures!

Rite Aid
#2) Bic Soleil, Advance or Hybrid $4.99
$2 SCR (A monthly rebate for all rebate-qualifying products)
Use $2/1 from SS 3/28
Final Price: $.99

#3) Lysol No Touch Hand Soap 50% off $7.50 ($14.99)
Make sure to check your local ad, because this deal seems to be regional
Use $1/1 ad perk coupon
Use $5/1 from 3/28 SS
Final Price: $1.50

Thanks, My Frugal Adventures!

Airwick Scented Oil Imotion Kit 50% off $7.00 ($14.00)
use $4.00/1 in 03/07 SS
$3.00 after coupon

Thanks, For The Mommas!

Remind Me to Post

2010-03-20T19:20:00.001-07:00

~~I recently made a pretty neat purchase at Target where I paid tax for three items, and $.50 for another. I'll be posting that soon!~~

Hot Deal - Rite Aid Toilet Paper

2010-03-15T17:46:00.000-07:00

Rite Aid:

What we got:
15 rolls of Angel Soft (3 bought last night, 12 bought today)
$2.19
On sale for $.79 per package

Vitamin Shampoo:
$6.99
On sale for 50% off
Mail in rebate makes this product FREE

CQ Nail Polish
$2.99
On sale for $.74

Total at register: $36.22

Total paid out of pocket: $14.91

Total savings: $21.35

This is where we're storing our toilet paper!! Yikes, we need a housey!!
With any luck, that will be soon because we've been looking at houses, and are going to put an offer in on two houses tonight!!!
Hopefully all this couponing will help us afford the right kind of home!

Kotex U Sample Pack

2010-03-15T17:08:00.000-07:00

You can sign up for this sample pack here.

Thanks, For The Mommas!

Bath & Body Works Deal

2010-03-15T16:54:00.000-07:00

I printed off my two coupons (1) and (2), and took them to Bath and Body Works last night. I paid $3.26 for two bottles of hand sanitizer, $1.63 each. I got a spearmint lip gloss valued at $7.50 and a body spray valued at $5 each for free!

Enjoy!!

Walgreens Matchups

2010-03-14T19:26:00.000-07:00

Bic Highlighters .49 with in ad coupon
Use $1/2 Bic Stationary products from 8/9 SS
Final Price: 2 for Free

Colgate Total $3.99
Get $3.99 Register Reward
Use $1/1 from 3/7 SS
Final price: $1 moneymaker

Colgate Total $3.99
Get $3.99 Register Reward
Use $1/1 from 3/7 SS
Final price: $1 moneymake

To read more matchups, look here.

Thanks, My Frugal Adventures!

FREE - Bath & Body Works Lip Care Item for Students

2010-03-14T12:48:00.000-07:00

I can't believe I didn't post this when I found it!! Sorry guys! Well, Cutie Snisser is coming to hang out today, so I'm printing one off for her too. They definitely work!
Here is the link for a coupon for a free lip care item with any purchase. If you purchase the $.50 hand sanitizer carrying case, you can get $8 worth of product for $.50!! I usually buy hand sanitizer itself because I love it and I use it always.

You do need to have a student ID!

Enjoy!!

Thanks, Printable Coupons!

Target Trip

2010-03-12T21:14:00.000-08:00

What we got:

Clorox Toilet Wand: $10.69

Kotex: $1.02

Dial: $1.37

Two blocks of Kraft Cheddar (not pictured): $2.19 each, or $4.38

What we used:

Clorox Toilet Wand:

-$5 off coupon

-$5 rebate (I'm still trying to figure out how to send it in, my upc code is one digit too long for the form)

Kotex: $1/1

Cheese: $1/1

Dial: $1/1

Total at register: $17.82

Total paid out of pocket: $8.52 before rebate, $3.52 after rebate

Total savings: $14.30 after rebate

80% Savings

Walgreens Trip

2010-03-12T21:03:00.000-08:00

What we got:

Dawn Dish Soap: $1.49

Glade 3-wick 10 oz. Candle: $10.99

What we used:

Dawn Dish Soap:

-On sale for $.99

-Manufacturer's coupon for $.50 off Dawn with Hand Renewal
Glade Candle:

-On sale for $5.99

-Manufacturer's coupon for $3 off

-Walgreens coupon for $2 off

Total at register: $13.59

Total paid out of pocket: $2.09

Total savings: $11.50

A grand total of 85% savings!!

Staples Deals

2010-03-12T20:59:00.000-08:00

At Staples, we were able to get two packs of envelopes, white erase markers, and a full ream of copy paper for $9.79 out of pocket. We signed up for our rebate, however, and are going to receive a $4.99 refund. Thus, for all that, out of pocket we paid $4.80.

What we got:

Markers:$3.29
Two packs of envelopes: $3.99 each, or $7.98
One ream of paper: $5.99

Because of Dollar Days, we paid:
Markers: $1
Envelopes: $1 each, or $2
Paper: $1

Total at register: $14.29

Total paid out of pocket: $9.78 before rebate, $4.79 after rebate

Total savings: $9.50

67% savings

Vons Trip

2010-03-12T20:56:00.000-08:00

Cutie Husband and I went to Vons last Sunday, and because we actually needed certain things, we didn't do so great. We paid $30.83, and saved a pitiful (very few coupons!) $8.97. However, considering the fact that we only paid $30.83 for a whole week of groceries, I was excited.

I realized that we may not save as much at Vons, but that's because we're using all of our coupons elsewhere, getting the great deals, and sparing ourselves the need to buy these products at Vons. This thought comforted me. We had just one coupon for our coffee creamer for $.75 off, "doubled" to $1 off. Our club card saved us the rest.

This was a savings of a measly 23%.

No pictures of this trip because we were in a rush to get back out the door. We threw the refridgerated things in the fridge, and left everything else on the kitchen floor until we got back home, thus no photos. We just basically got bottled water, milk, coffee creamer, chips, and bread plus a couple of extras.

Remind Me to Post

2010-03-10T15:22:00.000-08:00

Here are a few things you can expect to see posted over the coming week:

I got my hotbook from hotprints.com, and while our mail carrier careless bent it, I'm still very pleased and excited to have actually received it! I can't wait to set up for my March book! One free per month!! If you don't know what I'm talking about, click here to read all about it (Thank you, Mrs. Moneysaver!). I will post pictures of it so you can see it.

~~Cutie Husband and I went to Staples and scored some great products at great bargains! I love their dollar days!~~

~~We also went to Walgreens, and while that trip was the biggest disappointment, Cutie Husband was so kind as to drive me all the way to the other Walgreens so we could try our luck there.~~

~~We went to Target, and I got some great things. I still need to figure out my rebate for the Clorox Toilet Wand (my upc has one too many digits!!!), but I was glad with what we purchased there.~~

As soon as Cutie Husband and I go house hunting, you can expect to hear a lot out of me about that!!

~~Cutie Husband and I also had a trip to Vons this weekend, but unfortunately most of what we got did not coincide with an awesome coupon deal. We saved a little, but not much.~~

~~In light of all our recent trips, I will also need to update our savings counter in the top left corner!!~~ That's one of my favorite things to calculate!! It's the tiniest bit of Cutie Snisser in me... she's an accountant! I hope I make her proud with that little box! Then again, it's likely more the teacher in me!

Make sure to check back, because these things are all so exciting (at least to me!)!

Enjoy!!

Kmart Super Doubles

2010-03-10T15:10:00.000-08:00

For The Mommas has blown me away! I was looking at a couple of the posts from the last time that Kmart did a super double event, and she scored amazing amounts of products! Here is the tentative list for the participating stores.

Shannon says, though, that it is really chaotic figuring out whether they actually are participating or not.

Even to verify, I tried calling one of my local stores, and the store member said that they get an e-mail the week before letting them know. The employees had even less insight than I did about the event, so my advice is don't save your coupons until the week before!

If your store does participate, however, this sounds like an AMAZING thing!!! I'll be collecting high value coupons just for this and figuring out the nearest participating store!!!

Enjoy!!

Thanks, For The Mommas!

Kraft First Taste: Free Philadelphia Minis

2010-03-10T14:55:00.000-08:00

I think this offer may be reduced to a discounting coupon by now, but go see if you qualify for the freebie! These go quick though, so hurry!

If you get the coupon, it's a dollar off a four pack, so decide whether you think it's worth the printer ink! I looove cream cheese, and the only thing that could make it better is if it was easily transportable! So worth it for me.

Enjoy!!

Thanks, For The Mommas!

Sadly Slacking!

2010-03-10T14:49:00.000-08:00

I am very sorry that I have been slacking the past few days!!

Cutie Husband and I have been to three stores over the past weekend, and we weren't able to score all the deals we'd hoped for. However, we did get some amazing stuff!!

Unfortunately, after the second Walgreens we went to, we just took what we could get! I plan to go back every once in a while this month to try to swindle them into doing the deals the way they're meant to be (ridiculous that I have to swindle them to do what they're supposed to!), but they get very touchy about ringing in a zero total. They told me it wouldn't let me ring in a total of $.99 for the shampoo, but yet they did it for the candle!! Go figure...

Anyhow, my schooling program is in full swing. This is the fifth week out of nine, so I am halfway done with my first of five or six sessions.

I am sad to report that this is the norm, I think. So once every nine weeks at about the same time during my schooling, you will notice a steep drop-off in my postings. A lot of things are changing right now too, so that may cause some definite and noticeable changes in my blogging. I'm trying to have a positive attitude, so if you're a praying person, shoot a quick one up for me (and poor Cutie Husband who has to deal with my freak outs here and there!!) :]

I will do my best to keep up, and I have a TON of exciting things that have flooded my mailbox the past few days.

I will try to get on here and post up those pictures this week, but please be patient!

I know I have very few people who regularly check up on my blog, and I want you guys to come back!!

Don't worry, I am not stopping my blog, I have just been swamped with lesson planning and observing, yikes!
Check back this week for a major bottleneck of postings I should've been keeping up on!! :]

As always, please enjoy!! my site, and come check back Friday or so, I'll try to post at least a couple of my bargains by then, and maybe a couple of freebies!!

Birthday Freebies

2010-03-07T15:23:00.000-08:00

Here was an article posted on Yahoo! today. It shows where to get the best birthday freebies. Black Angus is amazing!! And if you ask me, it's worth it to get older just for all the free ice cream you can get, yeah baby!! Cutie Mom would love those!
You can see all the freebies here.
Enjoy!!

The Game Plan

2010-03-07T14:46:00.000-08:00

Today, Cutie Husband and I are going our scavenging for deals!! I've made my lists, and hopefully all goes as planned. As of now, here's the idea:

Walgreens:

Transaction #1

6 Kleenex with (2) $.50/3 coupons
$3 RR (my first transaction with Register Rewards ever, I'm trying to be brave, but I'm so nervous!!)

The Kleenex are B1G1 for $1.99each, $.50/3
Total at register will be $11.94
After deals, it will be $4.97 OOP, $1.97 with the RR

Transaction #2

Dial travel size, $1 off coupon, should be FREE!
Tylenol, $2 off coupon and $1.50 off coupon from March Coupon Booklet should be FREE
John Frieda Hair Care, $2 off from March Coupon Booklet, and $3 off from 3/7 SS should be $.99
Dawn Hand Renewal is $.99, with $.50/1 coupon from 3/7 P&G
Glade 3-wick, 10 oz. candle, $3.99 after Walgreens coupon, $3.00 coupon should be $.99
Russel Stover eggs should be $.29 on sale, used as a filler item

Staples:

Envelopes - 25 for $1 (maybe will buy two of those!!)
White board markers - $1, will look at those to see if they're really a good deal.. teachers can't have too many!
Hammermill printer paper - $1 after rebate

Target:

Clorox Toilet Wand, with $5/1 coupon and $5 rebate, should be free!
Almay Make-up Removal Pads with $2 off coupon, should be free
Cheddar Cheese, we'll have to see if they have what we need, should be $.50 each for 2

Vons:

Butter if it's on any kind of a sale
Water, without a sale
Milk, without a sale
Ivory soap, 3 count for free with our $1/1 coupon
Tornadoes taquitos, just so we can receive $10 off our next purchase

These are our deals, hopefully we can score as many of them as possible!!

Check back to see how we did!

Free Ivory Soap at Vons This Week

2010-03-07T13:59:00.000-08:00

Ivory Soap 3 count is on sale at Vons this week for 10 for $10. There there was a coupon from P&G (not sure the date) for $1.00 off Ivory, Safeguard, or Zest body wash or bar packs. Buy one, and voila! it's free.
Enjoy!!

Staples Dollar Days

2010-03-07T13:44:00.000-08:00

Oh wow, Cutie Sister-In-Law #2 and I love Staples Dollar Days!! Cutie Husband and I are heading over today to get some must-need stock up items, and I'm calling Cutie-SIL #2 right now to tell her about it!

$1.00 items

Quarlet Dry-erase markers 4 pack, reg. priced $3.29 (teaching supplies! gotta take a look at those)
Staples dry-erase board eraser, reg. priced $2.99
Staples Pull and Seal envelopes 25 pack, reg. priced $3.49 (so getting these!)
Avery Glue Sticks 3 pack, reg. priced $2.49
Staples 3 hole binder punch, reg. price $3.99

Enjoy!!
Thanks, Good Deal Mama!

Dial Coupon

2010-03-07T12:01:00.000-08:00

Coupon for $1 off dial liquid soap or body wash. To print them, just head here.
I've heard if you can find Dial trial size, it only costs $.99, so you can get a product free. Make sure to be confident with your coupons on that one though, letting the checker know that it does not say it must be used on full size products. I read the fine print, and this can be used on anything.

Enjoy!!
Thanks, Saving and Giving!

Free Full Size John Frieda

2010-03-07T11:41:00.000-08:00

Free full size shampoo and conditioner from John Frieda, while supplies last. You know I signed up for this one!
Enjoy!
Thanks, For The Mommas!

Mailbox Mania and Mall Madness!

2010-03-06T00:25:00.000-08:00

Tonight was such an incredibly fun night!! Not only did Cutie Husband and I go to the mall to redeem my free Victoria's Secret underwear coupon and my buy any item receive a free specified other item from Bath and Body Works, but when we got home to check the mail, our mailbox was crammed!

We spent the first part of the night making our way through the crowded mall - geez that place had teenagers coming out the freaking windows!). After a fun time eating out at Olive Garden to celebrate Cutie Husband passing a really crazy test that will help him be eligible to promote at his job, we went home. I persuaded Cuthie Husband to check the mail (yay!) and it was just packed full of goodies! As he was walking back to the car, a pink parcel caught my eye, and I was already excited!! I practically pounced on him when he got back in the car!

So here is what we scored tonight!!

First check from Pinecone Research!! Anyone who has doubts, doubt no longer!! It might be small, but this was my first month and I signed up at the end of the month. If you EVER have the chance to sign up for this company (and I'll try to jump on the link for the sign-up page when it comes available) do it without hesitation!! It's amazing! I literally spent 10 minutes on a survey. Nice!

Birds Eye coupons, great deal! We try to eat veggies whenever we can with dinner since fruit goes bad so quickly. Gotta get the healthy wherever ya can!

A little Kashi anyone?

Poise products and coupons... Yeah, I don't need em, so what?! :]

Finally, my mall madness. Free underwear, bought the hand sanitizer for $1.50 because I will actually use it, and got the verbena lime coconut body spray FREE with my coupon!

Absolutely a great night, and had such lovely conversation with Cutie Husband at dinner.

Now this is long overdue. I just looked at my receipt and realized the shopping day for this was last Sunday... I didn't exactly know how to post all this, so I put it off. Here was my Sunday Vons trip!

What I got:

For my Italian Cream Cheese Chicken Casserole:

Two crowns of broccoli

Two sticks of cream cheese

One can of chicken brother

General Shopping:

Whipped cream cheese

Two V-8 fusion

Two Right Guard deoderant

One tub of Folger's

One tub of Nesquik

5 boxes of macaroni and cheese (MEGA DEAL)

One box of fruit crisps (they didn't take my coupon because it printed badly, but they looked so good!

Splurge item!)

One 48 oz. bag of macaroni noodles

Two boxes of penne

Two boxes of Frosted Shredded Mini Wheats

One box of Blueberry Frosted Shredded Mini Wheats

One liter of Pepsi

Coupons we used:
We had a coupon for the Right Guard making them $.50 each

We had a coupon for the V-8 making them $1.50 each

The Pepsi was a special-spend-$10-pay-$.49-cents-for-this-item

The macaroni and cheese was on sale for $.50 a box, and we used our $1/5 coupon, making each box $.30

We had a coupon for the frosted mini wheats making those around $1.50 each

Total at register: $65.99

Total paid out of pocket: $45.33

Total savings: $20.66

This wasn't necessarily our best shopping trip ever, but we got a lot of things we needed! The Folger's and Nesquik we didn't have coupons for, and those alone cost around $15. I'm still working on getting the best deals at the grocery store, however if I'm able to do more of the basics shopping at Walgreen's so cheap, my grocery store prices will only go down and down!

Coupon for a Free Dove Product

2010-03-05T09:22:00.000-08:00

Upload a video at the Dove website and give them your thoughts on Dove BodyWash with Nutrium Moisture and you will get a coupon for a FREE Dove Hair Care product (up to a $6.25 value).

Thanks, For The Mommas and Mojo Savings!

FREE Clorox Toilet Wand

2010-03-05T09:18:00.000-08:00

With a rebate, you can get the Clorox Toilet Wand FREE.
Get the $5 off coupon here, and get the $5 rebate here.
It costs about $9.99 at Target, so it'll be FREE or close to it!!

Thanks, For The Mommas!

Free Emergen-C Sample

2010-03-04T22:33:00.000-08:00

As a teacher in a credentialing program, we got into a discussion tonight about health hazards with little germy kids. Our teacher was talking about this product, and I had remembered seeing something about free samples!
Thus, here is the link.
Remember, use your account just for these things, not your regular e-mail address!
Enjoy!!

By the way, look at what I snagged for searching about this product! Woo hoo!! If you're not already signed up for Swagbucks, I suggest you do! If you're not sure what Swagbucks is, look at my post here.

Coupon for Free Bath and Body Works

2010-03-04T22:21:00.000-08:00

FREE B&BW Signature Collection Travel Size Item coupon

Click on over here to print your coupon for a free travel size item with any purchase!! Because I use their hand sanitizer anyway (for $1 or $1.50 each) this is a great deal!!

Thanks, Deal Seeking Mom!

Kindle Free Reads!

2010-03-04T22:18:00.000-08:00

I was very excited to see this post on Deal Seeking Mom's site because my sister got a Kindle for Christmas! She's going on a long flight soon, and was looking for some good reads. So Cutie Snisser, this is for you!!!

Primitive, by Mark Nykanen

You Can’t Stop Me, by Matthew Clemens

A Bride Most Begrudging, by Deeanne Gist

Booth’s Sister, by Jane Singer

Operation Sheba: Super Agent Series, Book 1, by Misty Evans

Demonfire, by Kate Douglas

The Someday List (Jubilant Soul Series #1), by Stacy Hawkins Adams

Moonstone, by Marilee Brothers

Petals From The Sky, by Mingmei Yip

Saving Sailor: A Novel, by Renee Riva

Dead Witch Walking (The Hollows, Book 1), by Kim Harrison

As Young As We Feel: A Novel, by Melody Carlson

Battle Of The Network Zombies, by Mark Henry

Cool Like That: A So For Real Novel, by Nikki Carter

Love Yourself and Let the Other Person Have It Your Way, by Lawrence Crane

My Soul to Lose, by Rachel Vincent

Macaroni & Cheese Recipe

2010-03-01T19:59:00.000-08:00

Here is a favorite recipe of my and Cutie Husband's! Homemade Macaroni and Cheese, straight from my mom's kitchen!

We always double the recipe, so here it is doubled.

Enjoy!!

-Boil a large pot of water, once boiling, preheat oven to 350 degrees

-Dump in 16 oz. elbow macaroni

*Start on your rue (unfortunately, I didn't think about taking pictures of this until after I'd already started the rue, so some of the steps won't be pictured here!

-Melt in a sauce pan one stick of butter

-Add about 7-8 tablespoons of flour until the mixture becomes pasty

-Remove from heat and slowly incorporate 4 cups of milk

-Add salt, pepper, and onion power to taste (handy hint: the sauce should be flecked with pepper, so don't

be shy! Add about 3/4 tablespoon at least!)

-Place back over heat, and stir mixture CONSTANTLY until it comes to a boil

-Boil for one minute

-Around this time, your noodles should be cooked (cook according to package, usually around 10 minutes)

-Pour noodles into greased casserole dish (usually it takes me one 9x13 and one 9x9)

-Once your sauce has boiled for one minute, add four cups of cheese (OR MORE!!!)

-Slowly incorporate the cheese, allowing it to melt into the mixture before adding more

-Pour proportionate amounts of the sauce over each casserole dish, and stir

-Add a topping... I used Pringles last time, and they were delicious! I've also been known to add Ritz

crackers, croutons, or bread crumbs, ground up; I use whatever I have on hand at the time

-Bake for 30-35 minutes

Let me know if you make this recipe and any alterations you use! I love this recipe because it really only requires that you buy two ingredients! It is so easy and so delicious, and super cheap!

Cheese - about $4.00 for this amount

Noodles - about $.65 ($2 for a 48 oz. bag)

Grand total for a meal that lasts two people at least two meals each - $4.65

So for one person for one night, it costs $1.16 per person for a delicious, nutritious meal at home! (And that's with NO SALE on the cheese!! It can only get cheaper from there!!)

Enjoy!!

Verizon Wireless Customers Can Call Chile FREE

2010-03-01T17:50:00.000-08:00

Starting immediately and retroactive to the time of the earthquake, Verizon Wireless customers with regular monthly bills can make calls to connect with family and friends in Chile at no cost when they’re on the Verizon Wireless network in the U.S. Verizon Wireless customers with monthly bills who receive calls from Chile will also receive those calls free of charge. The company is making calls free for at least one week. Calls made while roaming are billed at normal rates. Go HERE to read all the details!

Free E.L.F. Manicure Set!!

2010-02-28T19:02:00.000-08:00

Register to receive e-mails from Warner, and receive your free E.L.F. manicure set! I couldn't really verify the website, but since I use a junk e-mail account for those things, who cares?

If it consoles you at all, I would sign up for this one.

While I was trying to sign up, the form was having a glitch, so try to get it to work!
Thanks, Deal Seeking Mom!

Yesterday's Target Deals & Mailbox Madness

2010-02-28T15:15:00.000-08:00

As you may have read in my post here, I have started e-mailing some companies for coupons and promotional offers.

Well yesterday I got this coupon booklet in my mail with high value coupons!

Some of the coupons are good for Windex products and other brands as well.

Yesterday at Target, I pieced together a great deal! I originally went in search of Crest White Strips, but they were absolutely not on sale at my store, so I refrained. I did however find a great deal!

Here's how we did:

Venus Razor: $4.99

We used: $2/1 coupon

Final price: $2.99

Olay Body Wash: $5.50

We used: Buy one Venus razor, get one Olay body wash FREE

Final price: FREE

Glade Oil Candle: $2.99

Clearance price: $2.54

We used: $2/1 coupon

Final price: $.54

Total at register: $13.02

Total paid out of pocket: $3.52

Total savings: $9.50/73%

New Multiple Bag Grip!

2010-02-28T14:20:00.000-08:00

You can go to Cleveland Clinic right now to receive your free multiple bag grip!! If you read our blog regularly to any degree, you likely know that Cutie Husband and I live in an apartment.

Now, living in an apartment means sort of by default that our front door is at least a hundred (large) paces away from the parking lot. Grocery trips are excruciating, especially in those cold winter months!

Who wants to make more than one trip?

We are so excited to receive our grip! I've wanted one of these.. uhmmmm... since I got married and moved in

with Cutie Husband!

Can't wait for it to show up!

Enjoy!

Thanks, Deal Finding Chik!

Couponing is a Hobby

2010-02-28T13:37:00.000-08:00

Cutie Husband and I were talking just now while I was perusing my sites to check for deals I'd like to pick up at the store today. He started to say how Sunday is the big day for couponing because the ads come out.

I said, "Well, Sunday afternoon is probably more like the big time for it, because that's after a lot of us have shopped."

He furthered his statement by saying, "Sunday afternoon is like your Friday Night Magic (Magic the Gathering, a card game he loves, if you couldn't tell by how many cards are always tacked on to our Target bill!!)."

It really is funny how couponing isn't just saving money. I love couponing. I love seeing my totals go down, I love chatting with fellow couponers, I feel like I have friends in all the blogs I read, and I hope you guys feel like you have a friend in reading my blog!

So if you score any amazing deals today, I'd absolutely love to hear about them in my comments!

Enjoy your Sunday, and enjoy your couponing!

Vons Deals 2/28

2010-02-28T00:48:00.000-08:00

Cutie Husband and I run through SOOOO much spaghetti sauce. Half of our food is Italian, and the other half I can usually find some way to work Prego into the mix! We're looking forward to trying to score this deal!

Prego Pasta Sauce- $1.50
Limit 4
Use various coupons from 2/7 SS
Final Price= as low as .50 each depending on variety

Arm & Hammer Toothpaste- $1.49 **Great Donation Item
Use $1.00 off HERE
Final Price= .49

Thanks, Save at Home Mommy!

Walgreens March Coupon Book

2010-02-27T13:32:00.000-08:00

Here were some deals I have my eye on, just gotta hope they coincide with some other good coupons!

$1 off Act Mouthwash
$1 off Lindt Chocolate Bunny or Lindor or Truffles
$1 off Little Tikes Baby Accessories

$.50 off Glade Relaxing Moments Spray

$2 off Glade Sense and Spray, or Fragrance Collection Reed Diffuser or Wick Candle

$1/2 Wrigley’s Eclipse 12pk or Orbit 14 pk

$1/2 Hershey Bar 4-4.5oz
$1/2 Lifesaver Jelly beans, Bunnies and Eggs Gummies, Hubba Bubba Cluckers or Starburst Jelly beans
$1/2 M&Ms
$1/2 Nestle Nest Eggs or Butterfinger or Crunch

$1.50 off Motrin PM, Simply Sleep or Tylenol PM
$1/2 Easter Hershey’s, Reeses or Cadbury candies 8-8.8 oz

$1 off W Photo Waterproof camera

To see the full list, visit For The Mommas!

Bounce Sample

2010-02-27T13:22:00.000-08:00

Get a free sample of Bounce 4-in-1 from Sam's Club. This one you don't have to be a member for!! At first, I thought you might, but just leave the membership number blank, and receive your free sample in 4-6 weeks!
Thanks, For The Mommas!

Walgreens Trip Savings

2010-02-27T12:44:00.000-08:00

On Thursday, I went to Walgreens and was able to get Excedrin Tension Headache for $.22 with my free product coupon! It was originally $4.79, but was on sale so with my coupon, all I had to pay was tax.

Celtic Tunes for Free

2010-02-27T10:44:00.000-08:00

This one's for Cutie Brother and Cutie Sister. They both love Celtic music, so if you go here, you can get 10 free Celtic songs.
Enjoy!
Thanks, Frugal Girls!

Cheerios Coupons

2010-02-26T23:55:00.000-08:00

Over $11.50 in Cheerios coupons.

Thanks, SwagGrabber!

Reach Coupon

2010-02-26T14:07:00.000-08:00

There's a new printable coupon for $1/1 Reach toothbrush or floss product.

Passion for Savings has some great ideas about how to use this coupon at Walmart or Walgreen's in the coming weeks to get free products!

Thanks, Coupon Dad!

Quiznos Coupons

2010-02-26T13:55:00.000-08:00

Quiznos is pretty pricey, so I usually try to avoid it. For that much, I'd rather go eat at a fancy restaurant! However, right now they have some pretty decent coupons out, valid until March 7th.

You can get $1.00 off a regular sub, $2.00 off a large sub with one coupon.
With the other, you can get a free chip and regular drink when you buy a sub or salad.

Enjoy!
Thanks, Coupon Dad

Housekeeping side note: You may or may not have noticed that I've been trying to remember to make all my pictures a link, so from now on, you should be able to just click the picture and have it take you directly to what I'm talking about. If there are multiple links, however, typically you'll have to click those rather than the picture, ie most Target posts, lists of coupons, etcetera.
Enjoy those Quiznos sammies!

Free Package of Nabisco Cookies - Every Monday in March

2010-02-26T11:51:00.000-08:00

Talk about March Madness!!!

Starting this March, every first Monday of the month, you can receive a free

package of Nabisco cookies with the purchase of a

gallon of milk. Unfortunately for me, grocery day is

Sunday, but it's still a great deal, especially because Cutie

Husband and I go through about two gallons of milk per week!

So to check out the full details, click here.

In order to receive this freebie, you must be a fan of Nabisco on Facebook.

Enjoy the Monthly Freebie while it lasts!

Thanks, Good Deal Mama!

Cuties Coupons... The Brand, Not Me

2010-02-26T11:44:00.000-08:00

How fitting to be posted here! There are some new coupons for Cuties, $.55/1 3 lb. bag, $1/1 5 lb. box.
You an print them here.

Thanks, Good Deal Mama!

$10.50 Worth of Arm & Hammer Coupons

2010-02-26T11:30:00.000-08:00

Arm & Hammer is offering $10.50 worth of printable coupons.
Sounds like a good deal to me! You never know when a coupon will turn into gold!
These expire on 3/27
Thanks, Spend Less and Save More

Target Coupons

2010-02-26T10:38:00.000-08:00

There are some Target coupons available for printing right now, so print them now!

Crisco Coupons, Kashi Coupons, and More!

2010-02-26T09:16:00.000-08:00

Save $.55/1 Crisco No Stick Cooking Spray
Save $1.00/1 Crisco Olive Oil
Save $1.00/1 Crisco Puritan Canola Oil
Save $1.50/2 Kashi TLC Bars

Thanks, For The Mommas

Free Peeled Snacks TODAY ONLY at Starbucks

2010-02-26T09:12:00.000-08:00

You can get a sample of Peeled Snacks at Starbucks today, but according to For The Mommas, it's not a rush-out-and-get-it kind of deal.
If you're going anyways, it'll be a nice little treat!

O.B. Sample

2010-02-26T08:41:00.001-08:00

Neat new sample from O.B. Tampons here.
Go check it out!!

Glade Printable Coupon!

2010-02-26T07:43:00.000-08:00

So I was so enamored by the thought of getting Glade coupons (because I am a candle addict, I store them in my cupboards if I don't have room for them because there eventually will be room!) that I wound up taking the plunge and finally registering for Right@Home. I just love all things Glade.

I've hear a lot about this website and all the great deals available to you once you've joined, but for some reason I hadn't formerly taken the time.

So here I am now, a new registeree!

Go here to get your own $2/1 coupon, and hang on to them until you can score these for FREE!

This coupon applies for soy candles and reed diffusers. Enjoy!

Thanks, Thrifty and Chic Mom!

Requesting Coupons - Update

2010-02-25T14:47:00.000-08:00

Here's the updated list. If you don't already know, I've been requesting coupons and samples from companies. These are the companies I've contacted so far, and some of them have gotten in touch with me already.
www.kashi.com - will send coupons!

http://www.birdseyefoods.com/ - will send coupons, but only once!

www.buddig.com - doesn't send coupons
www.floridasnatural.com

www.colgate.com/app/Colgate/US/HomePage.cvsp - will send coupons!
www.tostitos.com - doesn't send out coupons or samples
www.cheer.com (P&G/Cheer) doesn't send out coupons or samples
www.glade.com - told me they would send $20 worth of coupons!! Can't wait!
www.nesquik.com
www.pepperidgefarm.com- will send coupons!
www.tide.com - will send coupons!

Target and the Missing Coupon

2010-02-25T14:00:00.000-08:00

I was able to go to Target today and get my coupon honored for the $1.50 we missed last night, yay! This is why we love Target!

Good Day, Good Deals

2010-02-24T22:35:00.000-08:00

Overall today, we paid $18.27 for $49.05 worth or products.

Got a great freebie in the mail:

Dinner was pre-made on Monday, stuck in the fridge (along with three other trays that served for dinner on Monday and Tuesday!), so Cutie Husband and I just popped it in the oven, and it'll be great for lunch for Cutie Husband tomorrow, and there's even enough for Cutie Husband's sister and me to have dinner tomorrow during class!

On Monday, I had a box of jumbo shells sitting in the pantry, so I decided to spread my cheese mixture a little bit thinner, and was able to make about 65% more than normal!

Target Savings

2010-02-24T22:28:00.000-08:00

So Cutie Husband and I went to Target, and had a few coupons in mind for use. We ended up not using all of them because we forgot for some reason (long day!), and the cashier was in a bit of a grumpy mood, so she overlooked one of our coupons that we didn't notice until we left, but the savings were still great!

Boy! What a deal this was! The Magic cards were a splurge for Cutie Husband, one of his hobbies. Even with those and without one of our coupons, it was still pretty cheap!

So here's what we got:

Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower Cleaner: Cost $12.99

We used:

$7.00 off printable coupon

Coupon for $5 gift card with purchase of this product

Final (technical) price: $.99

Two Gillette Body Washes: $1.99 each, $3.98 total

We used:

$4/2 coupon

Final price: FREE

Satin Care Shaving Cream: $.99

We used:

$.55/1 coupon

Final price: $.44

We bought the Scrubbing Bubbles Foaming Cleaner, and we were going to use a coupon for $1.50/2 Scrubbing Bubbles products, but this was the coupon the cashier gave back to us. Had we used that, instead of being $2.99, our foaming cleaner would have been $1.49. We're going to take our receipt and coupon back another day and try to have them credit us.

Essentially, for the Scrubbing Bubbles Foaming Cleaner, we paid $2.99, full price! Ugh!

The Magic cards were $3.99 each for a total of $7.98

Our total at the register (we split the order in two to use our $5 gift card, so this is all inclusive for both orders) was: $35.23

We paid, out of pocket: $14.48 (if we'd been able to use our other coupon, we'd only have paid $12.98, and without the Magic cards, our total would have been $26.55, and our out of pocket expense would have been $5.80 without the extra $1.50 coupon, $4.30 WITH the coupon! What a deal!)

Successful Shopping Trips! Double Feature!

2010-02-24T22:06:00.000-08:00

WOW! Today was a busy day!
A trip to Walgreens after work, a trip to Target with Cutie Husband, the savings were insanity!
Got a great freebie in the mail today, I'm doin' good!
So let's get to it...
This is what I bought at Walgreens:

Two Crest Toothpaste: $2.69 each, $5.38 total

I used two $.75/1 coupons from P&G

I used $1.50/1 from the Walgreen's coupon booklet (found near front of store)

Paid out of pocket: $.44 each for a grand total of $.88 paid

Two Ghirardeli Chocolate Bars (these were the splurge item!) $3.95 each, $7.90 total

These were on sale for 2 for $3

Used the Walgreen's coupon booklet for $1/2

Paid out of pocket: $1 each for a grand total of $2.00 paid

Mentos Gum: $1.49

Sale price: $.99

I used a $.55 coupon from the Sunday ad (can't remember which ad it was from)

Paid out of pocket: $.44

Total at register: $13.82

Total paid out of pocket: $3.79

Total savings: $10.03

Vons/Safeway Coupon Policy

2010-02-24T18:30:00.000-08:00

I had a rough time finding this info, so I thought I'd pass it along to my readers!!

I've always wondered about Vons' coupon policy, so I finally decided to look it up. Here's what I found.

Vons/Safeway will double coupons with a value less than $.50. If your coupon has a value greater than $.50, they will round it up to a dollar.

So I have a $.35 coupon, they double it to $.70.

If I had a coupon that was $.80, they would round it up to be worth $1.00.

The benefit is, you never have to wait for a special "double-coupon-day." You may not get as great of deals without the doubling, but over time you save more regardless.

There is way more information out there about all of Vons/Safeway's policies, but Spring Bargains has all of that information if you're curious.

Great Kraft Mac & Cheese Deal!!!!

2010-02-24T18:16:00.000-08:00

If you shop at Vons, wait 'til you hear this! I imagine moms will love this one!

This Saturday and Sunday only at Vons there is a massive sale on macaroni and cheese. You can print a coupon too for $1/5.

Here's the break down:

Kraft Macaroni and Cheese - $1.09

Sale price - 2 for $1, limit 4

Price wyb 5 - $2.00 for the four covered by the sale, $1.09 for the fifth so $3.09

With coupon - $2.09 or $.40 a box

Requesting Coupons

2010-02-24T14:55:00.000-08:00

I recently heard from Frugal Mommas that you can e-mail companies and ask for coupons and samples, and they'll send them to you!

That's amazing! I have researched this topic, and found that companies enjoy getting feedback, and feel complimented when you ask for coupons, etcetera.

Well, I felt really awkward trying to ask for coupons because I felt so cheap! I researched a little more to find out just how to go about asking for this.

Basically, I found this post that made it seem so easy.

So voila! And I will be e-mailing companies to ask for coupons. I'll keep a running list updated of those companies I e-mail, so check back often to see what they send me and who I e-mail next!

Here's the list so far:

www.kashi.com - will send coupons!

http://www.birdseyefoods.com/ - will send coupons, but only once!
www.buddig.com
www.floridasnatural.com

www.colgate.com/app/Colgate/US/HomePage.cvsp
www.tostitos.com - doesn't send out coupons or samples
www.cheer.com (P&G/Cheer) doesn't send out coupons or samples
www.glade.com - told me they would send $20 worth of coupons!! Can't wait!
www.pepperidgefarm.com

Coupon Mom - Book and Video

2010-02-24T14:41:00.000-08:00

Coupon Mom is amazing. I'd say she has a gift for shopping!
You can watch her video here to see her pay less than $2 for $115 dollar grocery bill.

She also has a new book out, so go here to get all the info!

Quaker's True Delight - $1 Coupon

2010-02-24T14:07:00.000-08:00

I was hesitant to print this coupon because I have a feeling that this product won't ever be on a sale low enough that I'd be willing to pay for, however, if it looks good to you, feel free to print it!! I'll probably print it off just in case Cutie Husband and I decide that this is our splurge item of the week!

Quaker's True Delight $1 Coupon

Thanks, Moms By Heart

Free Sample of South Beach Living Smores Bars

2010-02-24T14:03:00.000-08:00

Sample of Smores Bars

I'm not really a person who diets, other than just regulating what I eat and trying to cook healthy foods for my family, but these are free, and who knows, they might be good!

Just beware, I have heard that some people are getting a message that says they are no longer available. Spend the time of your own discretion.

I was able to put my request through, so it may be hit and miss. I have a feeling that whether you are willing to provide feedback affects whether they will send it to you, just a hint.

Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery.

Vaseline Sheer Infusion - $1.50 Coupon

2010-02-24T13:47:00.000-08:00

Vaseline has a coupon right now for $1.50 off coupon.

Click here and scroll down to click where it says "Get Special Savings."

I'm saving mine for when a good deal rolls around, but if it's something you need or just want to see if you can get it cheap, I'd print it!

It doesn't expire 'til 4/24

Two FREE Gillette Body Wash - Target

2010-02-24T13:41:00.000-08:00

This week at Target, All Over Clean Body Wash and Hydration + Body Wash 8.4 oz cost $1.99 at Target right now. There was a $4/2 coupon in the coupons from 2/21, so you'll get not one but two body washes for free!

Thanks, Thirfty and Chic Mom

Hooked on Phonics - Up to 75% Off

2010-02-24T07:55:00.000-08:00

Now normally I don't post things for children because those deals don't pertain to me (no kids yet!), but I used Hooked on Phonics when I was a child, and I am a huge proponent of this program! I remember sitting in my sister's bedroom with my mom and sister every night and doing a little more. It was actually fun, and I appreciate what I learned from it. So on that note, here are some of the deals:

Hooked on Phonics Learn To Read (2006 Version)
Normally $199.95 - On sale for $79.95

Hooked on Kindergarten
Normally $199.95 - On sale for $79.95

Learn to Read-Kindergarten (2005 Version)
Normally $64.95 - On sale for $14.95

The overstock area is said to have some great deals.

Thanks, Saving and Giving!

Target - Kraft Cheese for $.50

2010-02-24T07:38:00.000-08:00

Right now at Target, you can use your Kraft $1/2 from the 1/24 Smart Source coupon paired with this printable coupon from target.com for $1 off. Voila, your cheese costs $.50 each.

As a big fan of homemade macaroni and cheese, this is a deal I'm looking into... as long as I can get to Target before the deal ends!

All You Magazine

2010-02-24T07:28:00.000-08:00

All You is a magazine geared toward women with budgets on the brain. It includes health and beauty tips that won't break the bank, recipes that don't include $50 worth of ingredients, and high value coupons (I'm pretty sure we all love that one!).

I've been hearing a lot about this magazine ever since I started couponing, and you can now get 2 free trial issues, so I figured what the heck!

If you're a skeptic, I'll tell you how I like it once I've received my first issue. If not, hurry and sign up for your free issues! I have a feeling I will love this magazine.

My only hope is that it saves me more money than it costs. If it does that, it's like a little booklet of gold in my mailbox once a month.

Target Deals

2010-02-23T11:50:00.000-08:00

Here are some amazing deals at Target this week
For the full list check out the blog of Stretching A Buck

Scotch Fur Fighter (pet hair pick up tool w/refill) – $3.99/ea
Use $4/1 here
Final Price = FREE
Satin Care Shave Gel (travel size) – $0.97/ea
Use $0.55/1 or $1/1 in 2/7 P&G insert
Final Price = FREE or $0.42/ea
Johnson & Johnson First Aid Kit to Go – $0.97-0.99/ea
Use $1/1 in 1/3 Red Plum insert (exp 3/31)
Final Price = FREE
Band-aids (8-10 ct travel size, Hello Kitty & others) – $0.97/ea
Use $1/1 in 1/3 Red Plum insert (exp 3/31)
Final Price = FREE
Johnson’s Buddies Soap – $0.97-0.99/ea
Use $1/1 Johnson’s Baby in 1/3 Red plum insert (exp 3/31)
Final Price = FREE
All Laundry Detergent (travel size) – $1/ea
Use $1/1 when you sign up here
Final Price = FREE
Reach Dental Floss (unsure of size – assuming travel) – $0.97-1.12/ea
Use $1/1 in 10/18 Red Plum insert (exp 6/30/10)
Final Price = FREE – $0.12/ea

I'll be honest, sometimes my newspaper isn't on top of things, and adds get left out. Unfortunately, this was one of them, so if you have these coupons, go crazy and have fun!
Even if it's just an excuse to go to Target with a friend or your kids, you'll walk out of there for free with a bunch of neat, functional merchandise!

Thanks, Good Deal Mama

Taco Bell Coupon

2010-02-23T11:32:00.000-08:00

Print the coupon from Taco Bell here to receive a free fresco taco.

Coupon is valid up to 7 days after printing.

Thanks, Money Saving Madness

Free Yard Sign

2010-02-23T11:27:00.000-08:00

Design your own FREE yard sign here

Shipping included

Thanks, Savvy Spending

Walgreens Free 8x10 - February 25

2010-02-23T11:24:00.000-08:00

On February 25 you can receive a free 8x10 photo when you bring in this printable coupon.

Thank you, Savvy Spending

Carefree Sample & Coupon

2010-02-23T11:22:00.000-08:00

Right now you can request a sample of Carefree Ultra Protection Liners and a $1.00 off coupon.

Carefree Sample & Coupon

Make sure you click to select both boxes

Kellogg's Offer - EXPIRED

2010-02-23T09:22:00.000-08:00

~~Sign up for the Kellogg's All-Bran Promise Pack~~

~~You'll need to register to receive~~

~~Allow 4-6 weeks for delivery~~

Thanks, STL Mommy

Restaurants.com - 80% off

2010-02-23T07:47:00.000-08:00

Restaurant.com has a great deal going right now, 80% off their gift cards to select restaurants. I've heard there's a catch though: if you buy a $25 gift card, you have to buy at least $35 worth of food.

Not a bad deal, I suppose, just make sure you realize that before you head out for a free meal...

You can buy $25 gift cards for only $2 right now, head on over and check the restaurants in your area to see if there are any worth your while!

Use the coupon code SAVOR at the checkout. I went and verified that the code DOES work!

Thanks, Coupon Geek

Method Laundry Detergent Coupon

2010-02-23T07:43:00.000-08:00

Apparently this one is going fast! Rush to print your coupon!

$4 off Method Laundry Detergent

Thanks, Coupon Geek

Olay Sample

2010-02-22T11:53:00.000-08:00

Make sure you head over to Walmart.com to check out any freebies you've missed!
There's a new sample up today:
Olay Total Effects Body Wash Sample
23 - 4-6 wks

Jack in the Box - Free Grilled Sandwich

2010-02-21T14:14:00.000-08:00

On Tuesday, February 23, 2010 you can go to Jack in the Box, buy a large drink, and receive any grilled sandwich free!

I know that what I'm "sending" Cutie Husband with to work that day! What a great deal!

For exact details, click HERE.

Walmart Freebie - Tide

2010-02-21T13:09:00.000-08:00

Free Tide with Febreeze Sample

Axe Dark Temptation Shower Gel Sample

2010-02-18T22:46:00.000-08:00

Axe Body Wash Sample
Not only for members of Sam's Club, but open to anyone

Swag Hunt

2010-02-18T15:25:00.000-08:00

There was a swagcode hunt on cookieskids.com, but if you want to save the time of searching, it is: CooKieSwaGKiDs

It is down to 1 swagbuck of value, but hey! it's one more than we had this morning, right?

The codes are case sensitive, so copy and paste it straight from here!

The Psychology of Freebies and a Request for Advice

2010-02-18T15:01:00.000-08:00

So I was thinking about Cutie Husband and myself, and how we've been trying to tighten our belts some to save up for a house. We are living in an apartment, and are rapidly outgrowing the closet space! I was thinking about all the extras that we try to go without, which we would ordinally love to splurge on. Then something occurred to me.

I've had a lot more self control with my own splurging since I've started signing up for freebies in the mail!

I am far less likely to spend money on unnecessary extras in the store when I know that I already have things on their way. Even if it is just a sample of toothpaste!

While I know that things won't make me happy, and that God is the ultimate and only One I need, it is still a little treat to get something new here and there that we've never tried before. So I think that knowing that I will get to try something new whenever it arrives in the mail helps me feel like I don't want to spend that extra money on the what's-it in Target that week.

Saving up for a house is so difficult, and we're blessed to have extra money coming from other venues to help us out a little bit. We acknowledge that now might not be the right time to get a house, and we're trusting God to give us the right amount at the right time. But we are trying to be faithful with what He has given us.

We especially want to be wise when we finally do start the searching and purchasing process, which is where the request for advice comes in. Neither Cutie Husband nor I have ever owned our own home. This will be our first time buying a house. That is why we are calling on our readers (few or plentiful as they be!) to help us out!

Never having owned our home, we don't really know what things to look for. We have a general idea of what we want, but we have no clue what works and what doesn't come time for our home to function.

When you bought your first house, was there anything you wish someone had told you?
What advice would you give to us in our search?
Are there certain features in a home that just plainly do not work, or certain things that we'd be regretful not to have in a home?
Are there any particular things we should be sure to check to make sure they work before we purchase?

We can't be too picky as this is just our starter home, but we definitely don't want to end up in a money pit or a house without working appliances or something!
We appreciate any and all advice we can get, and will keep you updated as our search begins, progresses, and comes to a close!

Easy Chicken and Mini Penne Casserole

2010-02-18T14:33:00.000-08:00

How can I resist trying out this recipe when the word "easy" is even in the title?!

This recipe is called Easy Chicken and Mini Penne Casserole, and I'll tell you what! it looks easy. Next week, most likely on Monday night unless circumstances don't allow, I'm going to try to make this meal.

A couple of modifications I already see though:
-I will double the recipe
-I will probably cook the chicken similarly to the way I cook the chicken for the Italian Cream Cheese Chicken Casserole
-I will also ignore the amount specifications for the chicken and likely use 2-3 chicken breasts
-I will use bagged, shredded cheese rather than fresh because I can't distinguish any difference
-I will (most likely) use way more Parmesan cheese than directed, stirring it into the mixture as well as topping it with the cheese

*I might try to add bread crumbs or some flavor of crunched up, baked potato chips the second time I make it. For now, I need to taste it to see what I think would go best.

When your directions are less than ten lines long, it really is quick and easy! These days, the little time I spend at home needs to be almost constantly maintaining order and getting homework together, so I can't spend massive amounts of time cooking. This recipe looks awesome because most of the time it takes to cook is oven time, which means I don't need to slave over the stove!

Part of the appeal about this recipe too is that I'll only have to buy noodles, onion, celery, chicken soup, sour cream, mixed veggies and cheese. The produce won't be very expensive, the store brand of chicken soup is ridiculously cheap, and you can usually find pretty good sales on the cheese at Vons, especially Lucerne brands!

It seems like the most time consuming part of this recipe will be cooking the chicken, but if I clean the chicken before-hand, it should be a snap!

I'll be posting pictures of this meal once I've made it, which will hopefully be next week!

Frugal Dinners

2010-02-18T14:07:00.000-08:00

I am a meal planner. Sundays, I like to clip my coupons, check the adds, and find cheap dinners to last us the week.

I recently started a schooling program that has me in class until at least 9 pm. Thus, I've been planning meals for Mondays and Wednesdays that can last me through to each of the next days for Cutie Husband to eat when he's home from work, plus extra for me to take to school for dinner for me and Cutie Husband's sister, who is also in the program with me.

So far, a couple of my favorites are manicotti - per Kraft Foods recipe - and Italian Cream Cheese Chicken Casserole. These are two of my favorites because they are loaded with protein, so they really know how to stretch a buck!

The manicotti is almost nothing but cheese! I always double my recipe and add all of the cheese that I have, even though it ends up being extra. To send my money a little further on this recipe, I leave out the pesto. I'm not addicted to pesto, and the meal has a great taste without it, so I don't even miss that ingredient. I'd rather have the green in my wallet than on my food! I use extra spaghetti sauce too.
Don't forget to cover this in foil before baking, it keeps the noodles and sauce from burning!

The Italian Cream Cheese Chicken Casserole is great because, since there is cheese in it, you really only need two or three pieces of chicken to feed an army. For this dish, I cube my chicken, and sautee it in olive oil, garlic powder, and onion powder. Instead of dried minced garlic and onion, I just use garlic powder and onion powder. I also double this recipe.

**If you have any easy casserole dishes like this that can be quickly doubled and last for at least two days, I'd LOVE to hear any suggestions!! I would even try to post pictures of my rendition!**
I'll be scouting for more recipes like these, so check back to see my findings. I'll tell you how my endeavors turn out!
Let me know if you try these recipes, I'd love to hear if you like them!
(I typically won't even give a second glance to a recipe if I am required to buy more than five or six ingredients, especially expensive ones, unless most of them are produce!)

Free Photo Book from Hot Prints

2010-02-18T11:49:00.000-08:00

I am excited to have found this in my blog searching. I stumbled across Coupon Geek, and was excited to see the post about the free photo book. If you sign up with Hot Prints, each month you get a free photo book. This includes shipping and handling! I can't wait to start this program! Even if you don't need to print up your own photos, can you imagine what a cool gift this is?!
I'm hooked!

Burt's Bees

2010-02-18T11:32:00.000-08:00

Free Burt's Bees Toothpaste Sample

Thanks, For The Mommas

8 weeks delivery time

Crest and Lever 2000

2010-02-17T16:13:00.000-08:00

Sample Some Free Crest White Strips from Walmart.com

Lever 2000 Sample, Costco members only

Thanks, For The Mommas

Freebies

2010-02-17T11:24:00.000-08:00

I was very excited to receive my first freebie in the mail yesterday! A coupon for no more than $5.99 off any Excedrin product!! I'll be heading to Walgreens this week! I was so pleased to get this coupon because medicine can be expensive!
I'll be posting pictures of my mailed freebies as they come. For now, forgive my lack of posting! Snowboarding + falling= jammed finger, hard to type!

Playtex Gentle Glide Sample

2/17 4-6 weeks

Lemonhead Sample

2/17 none

Read About Making Money with an Olay Rebate
Thankyou, Saving and Giving!

Snapfish Coasters

Snapfish has yet another great offer to all NEW users! Six picture coasters, $24.99 for free, plus free shipping and handling! You can't beat that!
-Go to Snapfish.com and register as a new user
-Click "your account" to redeem your offer
-Pick your pictures
-Type in the code PRESDAY
-Enjoy!

Hasbro Coupons
* $3.00/1 Playskool Dinoroars Hatchlings (2 coupons)

* $4.00/1 Playskool Tumble ‘n Twirl Top

* $2.00/1 Playskool Glow Worm

* $2.00/1 Playskool Mr. Potato Head Classic

* $3.00/1 Playskool Mr. Potato Head: Toy Story

* $3.00/1 Playskool Wheels Pals Mini 4 pack

* $10.00/1 Hasbro Chuck My Talking Truck

* $5.00/1 Hasbro Chuck & Friends Fold ‘n Go Play Set

* $3.00/1 Hasbro Chuck & Friends Fleet

* $10.00/1 Tonka Bounce Back Racer

* B1G1 Free Hasbro Pony Friends Single ($6.99 value)

* $5.00/1 Hasbro My Little Pony So Soft Newborns, Famly Convertible or Ferris Wheel

* $5.00/$20.00+ Hasbro Strawberry Shortcake Purchase

* $10.00/1 Hasbro Scrabble Deluxe Game

* $5.00/1 Hasbro Scrabble Game

* $5.00/1 Hasbro Pictureka! Game

* $4.00/1 Hasbro Monopoly Game

* $4.00/1 Hasbro Clue Game

* $5.00/1 Hasbro Guesstures Game

* $5.00/1 Hasbro The Game of Things

* $5.00/1 Playskool Sit ‘n Spin

* $5.00/1 Playskool Busy Ball Popper

* $5.00/1 Playskool Step Start Walk ‘n Ride

Don't be afraid to get creative with these coupons!! You can use the Pictureka!, Monopoly, Scrabble and Sorry coupons paired with the travel card games and get games for as low as $.24!! Cutie Husband and I bought Pictureka! and Scrabble card games, and while we weren't too crazy about Scrabble with two players (a little slow) we LOVED Pictureka! which includes four different ways to play!!

Thankyou, ForTheMommas for that list!

Basically Free Crest

At Walgreen's during the month of February, Crest toothpaste costs $2.29

Use $1.50 from the Walgreen Feb Coupon Booklet

AND Use $.75 from 2/7 PG

Price You Pay: .04

Two Freebies

2010-02-15T00:08:00.000-08:00

Free Sample of Aveeno Shampoo

Free Pair of Acuvue Contacts

Swagbucks Code Opp

2010-02-14T22:06:00.000-08:00

Right now at Swagbucks, there's an opportunity to get a code for one freebie swagbuck.

-Click on the bar at the top where it says "Ways to Earn"

-Click on "Special Offers"

-Click on "No Obligation Offers: Go Now"

-Skip the five or six offers there are

-You will receive a code at the end: copy this!!

-Click on my account

-Paste your code into the box at the left that says "Enter your SwagCode"

Swagbucks

2010-02-14T22:03:00.000-08:00

So when I first heard about this strange website called "Swagbucks" I was excessively skeptical. But the more I thought about it, and the more I talk to Cutie Husband, the more it made sense.

You use their search engine, which yields results from both ask.com and google.com, and occasionally you earn swagbucks. These swagbucks can be redeemed for gift cards and prizes. My personal preference is gift cards to places like Target.

So it seemed too good to be true at first, but it has become more realistic as I've used it. Other coupon gurus ranted and raved about Christmas with Swagbucks, mostly doing their Christmas shopping with swagbucks. I was sold when a couple or truly reliable sources said that they were able to pay for their whole Christmas after a year's use of swagbucks.

Not every search yields swagbucks. There are occasionally codes for swagbucks. Usually, you only receive one swagbucks per earning. It takes hundreds of swagbucks to redeem anything. This sounds better.

It took me about a week to even install the search bar because I was so incredibly skeptical.

I started using swagbucks just nine days ago, and already have 19 swagbucks. I haven't even been doing as much searching as I typically do.

So the way I see it, it's not much at all. About 2 swagbucks a day, on average. But if I do this for a whole year, and 600 swagbucks by Christmas. That's a whole lotta money that doesn't have to come out of my pocket!

If you do happen to sign up for swagbucks, just make sure you sign up also for their newsletter. This newsletter has a lot that you'd not otherwise hear about! But, as always, use an e-mail account specifically for your couponing and swagging!

So all those naysayers and skeptics, I can say honestly as a former skeptic myself, swagbucks is one ship I'll be on board of for a while to come!

Happy searching!!

I have yet to redeem anything, however I can confidently say you don't get junk mail from this site, and I have countless fellow bloggers who love it. Until I hear otherwise, Swagbucks sounds pretty great.

Recent Freebies and Amazing Deals

2010-02-14T12:58:00.000-08:00

*Hottest Deal*

FREE Dog Leash with Pictures of Your Pooch!

Right now at Snapfish.com, you can get a FREE dog leash with your personalize picture.
There is no charge whatsoever, however it does require a credit card of paypal information. It's a $25.99 value though! I tested the site, and you end up not paying a dime by the checkout page!
Here's what you do:

-Go to Snapfish.com

-Click on "Store"

-Type "Leash" in the search box near the upper left-hand corner

-Click on the link that says "Photo Dog Leah - Create a photo dog leash using your favorite..."

-Create your dog leash

- When it comes time to checkout, type in the code PRESDAY

Free Avery Label Pads

Free Kashi Sample

Free Uniball Pen

Walmart.com always has a couple of neat freebies

-Go to Walmart.com

-Click the "In Stores Now" link near the left

-Click the sixth link down on the left says "Free Samples & Tools."

I've already signed up for a couple freebies there, and they change regularly, so always check back.

Free Purex 3-in-1 Sheets

COUPON for Free Downy Wrinkle Releaser

Free Calculator After Rebate at Staples (Make sure you check in-store availability!)

FREE AFTER REBATE

Poise Sample Starter Kit

Free Orange Julius Coupon
Join the Orange Julius "Quench Club" and have a coupon e-mailed to you.

Dove Shampoo Sample

Juicy Juice Sippy Cup

Arm & Hammer Toothpaste

Hints and Tips I Use

I keep a list of freebies I sign up for so I know if something hasn't come, and I can keep track of how I like a product.

It looks like this:

Once an item is received, I type a review of the product and company. This helps me keep track of things I signed up for, and puts the website there if needed so I can go back and check on my item.

-Never sign up for a freebie that makes you feel uncomfortable. If it seems too good to be true, it is.

-If a site has an unfamiliar URL, check it out before signing up.

-Startsampling.com is a site that many main stream brands use, so don't be too wary of that site.

Any good deals you've come across recently?