Menu Planning Monday

Each week Laura at I'm an Organizing Junkie hosts Menu Plan Monday. Visit her site for lots of delicious meal ideas. Here's what we're having:

Sunday: Crescent Chicken Squares and green beans
Monday: Grilled shrimp on angel hair pasta
Tuesday: Leftover night
Wednesday: Stouffer's Skillet Meal (these were on sale at Publix; with my coupon it was $1.50)
Thursday: BONKO (E and J are having Progresso soups and grilled cheese sandwiches)
Friday: Grilled hot dogs and mashed potatoes
Saturday: Baked chicken, collard greens, and corn

Publix Trip

Here's what I got:

• (2) Stouffer's Easy Express Skillet Meals: Regular price $4.99 each x 2 = $9.98, on sale BOGO + used $1 Q x 2 = $2.99 ($1.50 each)
  
• (1) Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers Frozen Veggies: Regular price $2.39, on sale BOGO + used $0.40 Q, Publix doubled = $0.40
• (1) Publix jumbo meat franks = $1.99, this week's penny item = $0.01
• (2) Progresso canned soups: Regular price $2.29 each x 2 = $4.58, on sale BOGO + used $0.50/2 Q, Publix doubled = $1.29 ($0.65 each)
• (2) Chex Mix: Regular price $2.50 each x 2 = $5.00, on sale for $1.67 each + used $0.50 Q x 2 + Target $0.50 Q x 2 = $0.34 ($0.17 per bag)
• (3) Kellogg's cereals: Regular price $3.99 x 3 = 11.97, on sale BOGO + used Target $1.00 Q x 3 = 2.99 ($1.00 each)
• (2) Betty Crocker frosting: Regular price $1.89 x 2 = $3.78, on sale BOGO + used $0.50 Q x 2, Publix doubled = -$0.10 ($-0.05 each)
• (3) Betty Crocker Hamburger Helper: Regular price $1.99 x 3 = $5.97, on sale BOGO + used $0.75/3 Q = $2.24 (0.75 each)
• (2) Juicy Juice 64 oz: Regular price $3.65 x 2 = $7.30, on sale BOGO + used $1 Q = $2.65 ($1.32 each)

Total Regular Price: $52.96 + tax
Total OOP: $12.81 + tax
for a savings of: $40.15

Weeknight Taco Casserole

I love anything taco related, and this taco casserole is at the top of my list of quick and easy weeknight favorites. I've even included some shortcuts to make it an even quicker meal!

Weeknight Taco Casserole

1 lb. ground beef
1 package of taco seasoning
1 15 oz. can of refried beans
1 can of whole kernel corn, drained (this ingredient is optional)
2 cups of shredded cheese (I use the Mexican mixed cheeses)
1 cup of salsa (whatever intensity you desire)
3/4 cup of sour cream
1 small can of sliced black olives
tortilla chips

Preheat oven to 350. While the oven is warming, brown your ground beef. To save time, you may do this in the microwave for about 6 minutes. Drain and add taco seasoning. Cover the bottom of a 9" x 13" pan with tortilla chips. Heat refried beans and corn in the microwave until warm. Combine bean and corn mixture with salsa, sour cream, and 1 cup of shredded cheese. Spread over the top of the chips. Cover with ground beef, then remaining shredded cheese, and top with black olives. Heat in oven until cheese melts, which is about 10-12 minutes. Enjoy!!

Fall Decor for $4

Rebekah at Wild Ink made this awesome wreath! I am so impressed and hoping I can make one that looks at least half this good! I wanted to share this with you all, since this is a great project for decorators on a budget! If anyone attempts this, I would love to see pics. Hopefully, I'll have a few free minutes next week to work on mine!

Thanks you, Rebekah for allowing me to share this with my readers!

Best Publix Deals!

Let me start by encouraging you to sign up for Publix FamilyStyle magazine. It is a FREE quarterly publication that will be mailed to your home with extra coupons!

Now with the best deals from this week's ad:

• Betty Crocker Brownie or Cookie Bar Mixes: BOGO $2.59, combine with $0.50/2 coupon printable from Betty Crocker's website, Publix doubles, making this $1.59 for 2
• Land O Lakes Spread, 2 ct, 7.5 oz or 15 oz tub, or Pure and Creamy Margarine, 15 oz tub: BOGO $1.89, combine with $1/2 coupon from 10/18 SS, making this $0.89 for 2
• Nestle Toll House Morsels Semi-Sweet Chocolate: Real, Mini-Real or Chunks, or Butterscotch, Milk Chocolate, or Premier White, 11 to 12 oz bag: BOGO $2.50, combine with $0.50 coupons from Sunday (11/1) RP, Publix doubles, making these $0.25 per bag!!!!! GREAT DEAL!!!!
• Barilla Pasta, 13.25 to 16 oz box, (except Barilla Plus & Lasagna): BOGO $1.43 = $0.72 per box
• General Mills Cereal Cheerios, Cocoa Puffs, or Trix, 8.9 to 11.8 oz box, Chex Cereals, 12.8 to 14 oz box: BOGO $3.49, combine with $1/2 Target printable coupon, and $1/2 coupon from 11/1 SS, making these $1.49 for two boxes!
• Betty Crocker Potatoes, 4.6 to 6.6 oz box: BOGO $1.73, combine with $0.40 coupons printable at coupons.com, Publix doubles, making these $0.07 Each!!
  
• Nestle Toll House Refrigerated Cookie Dough Ultimates or Mini Chocolate Chip or Cookie Mix, 15 or 16.5 oz pkg: BOGO $3.47, combine with $1 coupons from 11/1 RP, making these $1.47 for two or $0.74 each!!!!
  
• Nestle Coffee-mate Non-Dairy Creamer Chilled: Original, Low Fat or Fat Free, 32 oz, BOGO $2.65, combine with $0.50 coupons from 11/1 RP, Publix doubles making this $0.65 for two!!!

There are lots of other great deals, but I thought these were the best!

Deals you don't wanna miss!

I got some great deals at Walgreens today and thought I would share!
Here was my transaction:

• Gillette Body Wash: Regularly $5.99, on sale for $4.00
  
• Gillette Deodorant: Regularly $8.99, on sale for $4.00
• Almay One Coat Mascara: Regularly $6.99, on sale BOGO
• Almay One Coat Mascara: Regularly $6.99, on sale BOGO

If you have Sunday's paper (11/1), there is a coupon for a free Gillette body wash with the purchase of a deodorant, as well as a coupon for $1 off the deodorant! That makes it $3 for both of those products + you earn a $2 RR = $0.50 each!!

For the Almay, there is a $4 coupon in the Walgreen's November book at the front of the stores. It takes the $4 off each tube, so you actually make $1 when you get two tubes!!

For all four items, I paid $1.99 + tax and got back $2 RR!!!!

Publix Penny Item

The Publix penny item is Publix peanut butter!!
Spend $10 and get the peanut butter for a penny! Great to stock up for holiday baking!!

Old Navy Costume Craze

Haven't found a Halloween costume yet? Check out this awesome deal from Old Navy for $2 costumes. Even if you already have one for this year, you could stock up for next year!!

4 Cent Prints!!!

If you need to catch up on your photo printing, Winkflash is offering $0.04 prints for the first 100 prints on each order! That's $4.00 for 100 pictures, which i think is a pretty hot deal! The coupon code is TREAT09 and can be used multiple times. This deal expires November 5th, so hurry on over to www.winkflash.com!

Back in the swing of it!

Well it's been a while. If you remember, I quit my job in January to go to nursing school full time. For the first 7 or 8 months, nursing school consumed a great portion of days. Projects, studying, clinicals, combined with a toddler, being director of a Sunday school class, and taking care of my daily household duties didn't leave much time for blog world. Surprisingly, this semester things have slowed down tremendously. So back to blogging for me!

I have been trying to save all the while, but I haven't been able to share with you until now!! So here's so things I found this week:

CVS:

• Mennen Speed Stick Deodorant: Sale price $2.49, earns $1 ECB, combine with $0.75 coupon from 9/27 SS making it $0.74
• Gillette Fusion, Venus Embrace, orSpa Breeze Razor (excluding disposables): Sale price $9.99, earns $5 ECB, combine with $4.00 coupon from 9/27 PG making it $0.99
• Dove body products (shampoo, conditioner, soap, body wash, etc.): Spend $20, earns $10 ECB, most of the Dove products are on sale and can be combined with coupons to get some great deals if you love Dove!

Walgreens:

• Fiber Choice or Beano 12ct: Sale price $2.49, earns $2.49 RR = FREE
• Robitussin To Go: Sale price $2.49, earns $2.49 RR = FREE
• Chapstick Fresh Effect: Sale price $2.99, earns $3 RR = FREE
• Ducolax Balance: Sale price $7.00, earns $4 RR = $3.00 + click here for an additional $3 coupon, making it FREE + a $5 mail in rebate!!! You can actually make $5 on this deal!
• Vaseline Sheer Infusion Body Lotion: Sale price $6.99, earns $7 RR = FREE + combine with $1 coupon from 10/18 newspaper coupon to make $1 profit!
• Halls Sugar Free Cough Drops: Sale price $1.00, combine with $0.35 coupon from 9/27 SS making these $0.65

Publix:

• Fresh Express Salad Blends, Assorted Varieties, BOGO $3.99, combine with $0.55/2 coupon from 10/4 SS = $1.72 each
• Perdue Breaded Chicken Breast Nuggets, Chicken Tenders, or Breaded Chicken Nuggets Fun Shapes, 12-oz pkg., BOGO $4.39, combine with $1 MQ from 10/18 RP or you can print $1.00 coupons at www.redplum.com = $1.20 each!
• Mueller’s Pasta, Assorted Varieties, 12 or 16-oz box or 100% Natural Whole Wheat Pasta, (Excluding Lasagna and Jumbo Shells), BOGO $1.39, combine with $0.55 coupons from www.muellershealth.com = $0.15 per box!
• Luzianne Family Size Tea Bags, Original or Green Tea, 24-ct box, BOGO $2.29 = $1.16 each
• Bull’s-Eye Barbecue Sauce, Assorted Varieties, 18-oz bot, BOGO $2.00 = $1.00 each
• Shedd’s Spread Country Crock Regular or Churn Style, 15-oz tub or Twin Pack, 2-pk, 7.5-oz tub, BOGO $1.89, combine with $0.30 coupon from 9/20 RP, Publix doubles coupon making this $0.35 each!
• Breakstone Sour Cream, All Natural, REduced Fat, or Fat Free, 8-oz cup, BOGO $.99 = $0.50 each!
• Glass Plus Glass & Multi-Surface Cleaner, 32-oz bottle, BOGO $2.49, click here for $1.00 printable coupon = $0.25 each!

Happy shopping!!

The Gray Bakery

Despite the 4,000 things I do on a typical day, I have turned our house into a bakery! Not really, but it feels like it. I've made three cakes, two veggie trays, homemade ranch dip, and the list goes on. I have fallen in love with Paula Deen's Simply Delicious Strawberry Cake and made it for two different parties this week. Most of her recipes are fairly easy to make, and usually make their way to my table quite frequently. The second time I made it this week, I had an icing catastrophe. It was very runny, but still tasted delicious. I'm not sure why, but I have yet to take a picture of this cake.

The other cake I made was a test run of Jaxson's birthday cake. I baked a two-layer yellow cake and did a crumb layer of homemade chocolate buttercream icing. Next, I covered the cake with homemade fondant icing. It was my first time making both of those icings, and I was so excited at how they turned out! Here's a picture of my test cake.

Awards!!

I got two awards (despite my lack of postings recently)!! Talk about excited! I am on Spring Break this week, and I have lots to blog about!

But first, here are the awards I got:










This is from my reader at Cheap By Choice. Stop by and check out her blog!
I have to tell 7 things I like and pass the award to 7 blogs.
Seven things I like:
1. Spending time with my family
2. Cooking/Baking
3. Saving money
4. Scrapbooking
5. Dancing and exercising
6. Being outdoors
7. New clothes :)

Seven blogs:
1. Sugar and Spice: Celeste is always posting delicious recipes to try!
2. Cents To Get Debt-Free: Phoebe has some awesome advice for helping you set and reach financial goals!
3. Fabulously Frugalicious: Trina posts on a variety of topics, from saving to crafts, she always has something fun for her readers!
4. FiddleDeeDee: Sarah is always on top of the deals at Publix. If I haven't had time to scope out the ad, I always check out her site!
5. Organizing Junkie: Laura will help you find ways to get and keep your life organized. She also hosts Menu Plan Monday each week!
6. Jane4girls $800 Annual Budget: I am always intrigued by the different solutions and suggestions I find on here to save money!
7. The Saving Momma: I love to see all the deals that she posts each week! She has lots of pictures to give her readers a view of what she gets with her money!

Menu Planning Monday

Menu Plan Monday is hosted each week by Laura at I'm an Organizing Junkie. Check out her site for more menu ideas. Here's what we're eating this week:

Sunday: Dinner at church
Monday: Pizza night
Tuesday: Coconut chicken with apricot dipping sauce, garlic butter pasta
Wednesday: Pork roast and sauerkraut
Thursday: REPEAT Thursday (our leftover night)
Friday: White Chicken Chili with tortilla chips
Saturday: Birthday party

Have you had your break today?

Got lunch plans? For those who like to eat out for lunch once a week, McDonald's is offering a cheaper option. I'm not necessarily a McDonald's advocate, but a $0.49 burger is definitely worth the mention!

That's right! Every Friday through April 24, McDonald's will serve $0.49 hamburgers and $0.59 cheeseburgers! Check with your location to make sure they're participating, because some stores are running the deal on Tuesdays.

Eat up!

Publix Deals 2/25 - 3/3

There are some great deals at Publix this week! Here's what I found especially notable:

• Mueller's Pasta: BOGO $1.49 (or $0.75 for one), may be some $0.55/2 MQ in 1/4 = $0.94 for two!
• Classico Pasta Sauce: BOGO $2.39 (or $1.20 each)
• Kraft Macaroni and Cheese Dinner: BOGO $1.99 (or $1.00 each)
• Kellogg's Smart Start, Raisin Bran, or Corn Flakes cereals: BOGO $3.99 (or $2 each) $1.50/2 MQ from 1/18 RP = $2.49 for two!
  
• Quaker Cap'n Crunch Cereal: BOGO $4.49 (or $2.25 each) $1/2 MQ from 1/4 SS = $3.49 for two!
• Betty Crocker Supreme Brownie Mix or Dessert Bar Mix: BOGO $2.69 (or $1.35 each), $0.75/2 MQ in 2/8 SS = $1.94 for two!
• Del Monte Tomatoes: BOGO $1.39 (or $0.70 each), use $0.40 MQ from 2/8 RP, Publix doubles making this FREE with $0.10 overage!!!
• Kellogg's Pop Tarts: BOGO $2.39 (or $1.20 each), there is a $1/2 printable coupon on Target's website making these $1.39 for two!!
• Green Giant Canned Veggies: BOGO $1.29 (or $0.65 each)
• Lipton Tea Bags: BOGO $3.79 (or $1.90 each), use $0.60 coupon from 1/18 RP = $1.30 each
• Hormel Canned Chicken Breast: BOGO $3.39 (or $1.70 each)
  
• Pam Cooking Spray: BOGO $3.39 (or $1.70 each), use $0.35 MQ from 1/18 SS, Publix doubles making this $1.00 each
• Doritos Chips: BOGO $3.99 (or $2.00 each)
• Keebler Right Bite Cookies: BOGO $3.19 (or $1.60 each)
• Sunshine Cheez-It Crackers: BOGO $3.19 (or $1.60 each)
• Kellogg's Special K Snack Crackers: BOGO $3.19 (or $1.60 each)
• Kashi TLC Crackers: BOGO $3.19 (or $1.60 each), there is a $1 printable coupon from Target's website making these $0.60 per box!
• Planter's Peanuts: BOGO $2.89 (or $1.45 each)
• Keebler Town House crackers or Club crackers: BOGO $3.99 (or $2.00 each)
  
• I Can't Believe It's Not Butter (tub, spread, spray): BOGO $2.39 (or $1.20 each), use $0.40 MQ from 1/18 RP, Publix doubles making this $0.40 each!
• Green Giant Frozen Veggies: BOGO $3.49 (or $1.75 each), $0.40 MQ in 1/4, Publix doubles making these $0.95 each!
• Dove Ice Cream: BOGO $3.19 (or $1.60 each)
• Bird's Eye Voila Meal: BOGO $4.99 (or $2.50 each), use $1 printable coupon from www.coupons.com makes these $1.50 each!
• Lysol All Purpose Cleaner: BOGO $3.19 (or $1.60 each), use $0.50 coupon from 1/4 SS, Publix doubles making these $0.60 each!
• Spray 'N' Wash: BOGO $4.79 (or $2.40 each) $0.75 printable coupon on Home Solution News website makes these $1.65 each!

Menu Planning Monday

Menu Plan Monday is hosted each week by Laura at I'm an Organizing Junkie. Check out her site for more menu ideas. Here's what we're eating this week:

Sunday: Leftover roast, potatoes, carrots and green beans
Monday: Crescent chicken squares and black-eyed peas
Tuesday: Cheesy fiesta rice dish with Mexican cornbread
Wednesday: Lemon pepper chicken, Italian potatoes, green beans
Thursday: BUNKO night!!!
Friday: Pizza night
Saturday: Asian Stirfry

January Goals Review

Okay, so I told you guys I would update you on my 2009 goals at the end of each month, to help keep myself accountable. Here's where I stand at the end of January:

Spiritually

• To set aside specific time alone with God each day, in prayer (I'm not exactly where I want to be. I want to spend good, quality time with God, and I don't feel like I do it enough)
• To read through the entire Bible in 2009; I have made this easier on myself by purchasing a copy of The One Year Bible that our church was selling recently. It has daily readings from the Old Testament, New Testament, Psalms, and Proverbs. (I'm enjoying this so far! There is some really good information in there that I haven't read before!)
• To keep up with my prayer notebook, to make sure I'm specifically praying for each prayer request (I'm not doing so good on this... I was off to a great start, but not so much anymore. Definitely starting over for February!)
• Put my full faith in God and know that He will not fail me! (I have definitely had to do this!)
• Pray for our government and nation on a daily basis

Financially

• Continue to contribute no less than $15 weekly to our high interest savings account (We are still doing this.)
• Continue to pay an additional $30 per month towards my car note (Honestly, I can't remember, and I don't have the bank statement in front of me.)
• Keep grocery budget at or below $50 weekly = $2,600 yearly (A+ in this area, I'm actually thinking about lowering it to $45, but we shall see!)
• Find a carpool buddy for my school commute, if possible (Not yet. I have found several people who live in my general area, but we all have kids to pick up, so it hasn't worked out just yet)
• Find a part-time job that I love :) and that works with my school schedule, and possibly offers tuition reimbursement (I've applied for many, but no response just yet!)
• Reduce my cell phone plan to a lower plan, since I don't need the internet on it anymore! (I'm doing this tonight!)
• Sell my used nursing books online to earn money back (It's not time for this yet.)
• Create an efficient method for organizing coupons (Yay! This is done! My coupons are all neatly organized alphabetically in baseball card sheets in my binder!)
• Donate any unused items to a charitable organization on a monthly basis (I contacted Jessie's Place to begin donating to them, as well as volunteering there a few times a month. I have to attend an orientation before I can begin.)
• Track all money spent and saved (We're doing pretty good at this but not perfect. Sometimes I have trouble keeping track of the cash... still working on this!)

HOME

• Paint kitchen and hallway (Not yet!)
• Keep pantry organized throughout the year (So far, so good)
• Adhere to the cleaning schedule we've created (Okay, cleaning schedules don't work with nursing school schedules. You just clean every morning and afternoon that you have a chance. I don't let dirty dishes pile up in the sink or anything nasty like that, but we'll just say I don't dust every day!)
• Create my own area in the office for couponing and studying (So my area is in the living room, sue me!)
• Purchase stockpile of toilet paper, paper towels, and other everyday items and designate a place for their storage (Got a pretty good stockpile going. And we've designated two storage areas!)
• Purchase food staples for stockpile and designate a place for their storage (Got a good stockpile of food going too and have a spot designated for it!)
• Watch no more than 6 hours of television per week (We are loving this! Although, we just bought our converter box, and everything is crystal clear!)
• Keep cars washed and maintained (Doing good with this.)
• Paint front porch and front door (Not yet, maybe when it warms up)
• Keep closets organized (Every closet is looking awesome except mine. But, my wonderfully organized friend, Stevie, is coming to help me tackle this on Friday. She took one look in there and was stunned; I'll have to post a before and after picture!)
• Plant and maintain garden (and have successful growth!) (Not time yet)
• Have at least one hour every night of play/family time (Loving this!)
• Hang laundry to dry during warm months (Not warm yet!)
• Maintain a weekly meal plan (Definitely slacking in this area! I'm going to start doing Menu Plan Monday again, to help me with this!)

Personal

• Participate in at least one local mission ministry per quarter (the one's I'm thinking of so far are Habitat for Humanity, Ronald McDonald House, Jimmy Hale Missions, and a local event we have in our town) (Signed up for several. The first one is this month!)
• Commit to a serious workout routine, involving cardiovascular and light weight training activities (Doing great with this! Working out has always made me feel so much better! )
• Spend at least 6-8 hours each week studying for school (Yeah, there's no avoiding this! I have to do it!)
• Arrive at least 10 minutes early for everything (this one might be a toughie!) (Doing good with this one so far. I usually get to school about 45 minutes early.)
• Maintain my 4.0 GPA (The end of my first semester is in May, so we'll see!)
• Become happier with my appearance (Still working on this one, but getting better!)
• Do not take things to heart; this is hard for me sometimes especially when I think someone is blatantly being mean (God definitely put me to the test on this one! But I know He helped me handle the situation, and I'm continuing to pray about it!)
• Update my blog on every one to two days (for my readers!) (This one has been tougher than I thought!)
• Wrap all birthday presents for children in wrapping paper (no gift bags) (So far, so good!!)
• Have all Christmas presents purchased no later than December 4, 2009 (Doesn't apply yet)
• Read at least one non-school-related book per month (I'm almost through reading C.J. Mahaney's Cross Centered Life)
• Have a date night every month (with my spouse!); this can be a pizza and movie rental night, just so long as we have a date night (We had a wonderful date night at the movies a few weeks ago!)
• Practice random acts of kindness (I love this! I gave two ladies at Walmart some extra coupons I had for items they were purchasing, and they were so excited!)
  

I'll post another update at the end of this month! How are you sticking to your goals?

So what do all those abbreviations mean?

I get this question a lot. So, if you're wondering what a MQ is, this blog might be for you. Let me know if you have any other questions that I might not have addressed.

• OOP = Out of pocket (how much I spend)
• RR = Register Reward (it is like a gift certificate that prints out at the end of your receipt; Example: Colgate toothpast is $2.99 at Walgreens this week, but you will get a $2 register reward that prints out with your receipt. The idea is to roll your rewards and use them to buy stuff that generates more register rewards; you can use them on the same day and do multiple transactions or save them for your next visit, depending on what all your want to buy.)
• MQ = Manufacturer's coupon (can be found in newspaper inserts, may come in mail, etc. ex: $2 MQ from 12/14 SS means a $2 coupon that can be found in the SmartSaver insert from the 12/14 paper) I don't clip coupons. I take out all the coupon inserts from each week's paper. They are together in a booklet form and there are usually two each week. I write the date in black marker on the front of each insert and file them in order. Then, when I need one I clip it. That way I don't have to spend hours clipping each Sunday and then hours looking for coupons each week! This method just works best for me.
• ESR = EasySaver Rebate (this is a Walgreens thing; each month Walgreens prints a catalog of deals that are free, or earn additional rebates; You can match these with manufacturer's coupons for an even bigger deal; then, every time you make an eligible purchase, you enter your receipt number on their website and at the end of the month, you cash them all in. You can choose to get a check or a Walgreens gift card. If you opt for the Walgreens gift card, they add an additional 10% to your rebate!! )
• ESQ = EasySaver coupon (these are the coupons that are found in the EasySaver catalog; you can combine these coupons with manufacturer's coupons for an even bigger deal! You can use one store coupon and one manufacturer's coupon per item. Example: a few weeks ago Walgreens had Garnier Fructis shampoo on sale for $2.99; I combined with a $2 EasySaver coupon from the catalog and $1 manufacturer's coupon from the paper and got shampoo for free!)
• IVC = The same thing as an ESQ. These terms are used interchangeably. I try to stick to ESQ, but occassionally I'll use this.
• GC = Gift card (I get my gift cards from different places. My Walgreens gift cards are usually from filing my EasySaver Rebates for each month, and my CVS gift cards are usually from my bank. Our debit card is a rewards card. Essentially, our bank rewards us everytime we spend our money.)
• ECB = Extra Care Bucks (similar to RR, but these are only found at CVS; they are rewards that print out with your receipt. Example: Spend $20 on Pepsi, and you will earn $10 ECB. You spend $20 and you get a $10 gift certificate, so to speak, to use on your next purchase. The way this differs from Walgreens is you have to have a CVS ExtraCare card. It's free, and you can apply in stores. This is essential!!!)
• IP = internet printable coupon (coupon that can be found online and printed from your computer.)
• SS = Smart Source (that just means that a coupon came from the Smart Source insert of the paper; if you look in the upper left corner of the coupon inserts from your paper, you should see one that says Smart Source)
• RP = Red Plum (the other insert in your Sunday paper; it says Red Plum on it)
• PG = Proctor % Gamble or P & G (the Proctor & Gamble insert from Sunday papers; it is usually only in the paper the first Sunday of each month, but may vary; it has coupons for Proctor & Gamble products)
• Blinkie = a coupon that is in one of those machines in the grocery store, it usually has a red blinking light and says, "take one" or "try me".

Hopefully, this will help you get started on the money saving track!!

My Weekly Deals (Total Spent = $16)

I made my weekly trip today. Here's what I got:

Stop #1: Walgreens

• Red Baron Pizzas x 4: Reg. price $5.09 x 4 = $20.36, sale for $2.50 x 4 = $10.00, used two MQ for $1/2 from 1/11 SS = $2.00 x 4 = $8.00
  
• Colgate Total Fresh Toothpaste: Reg. price $3.29, marked down to $1.79, used $1 MQ= $0.79


• Colgate 2 in 1 Toothpaste: Reg. price $3.29, marked down to $1.79, used $1.50 MQ = $0.29


• Edge Energy Shaving Gel: Reg. price $3.29, used Walgreen's Q from weekly ad = $1.99, used Walgreens $1 Q from EasySaver Catalog = $0.99

Regular Price: $30.23 + $3.02 (tax) = $32.25
After Sales and Coupons: $10.07
Paid with RR = $10

Total OOP = $0.07 + $1.56 (tax) = $1.63
Earned $2 RR for next visit

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Stop #2: CVS

• Gillette Shampoo x 5: Reg. $5.99 x 5 = $29.95, sale for $4.99 x 5 = $24.95, used 5 MQ for $2 each = $14.95


• Dove Soap: Reg. $1.49, sale for $0.99 (my $1 MQ didn't work, so I had to pay for this)

Regular Price: $31.44 + $3.14 (tax) = $34.58
After Sales and Coupons: $15.94
Paid with ECBs = $12.58

Total $3.36 + $1.34 (tax) = $4.70 paid with gift card
Total OOP = $0.00
Earned $15 ECB for next visit

---------------------------------------------------------------------
Stop #3: Publix

• Tyson chicken nuggets: Reg. $6.59, sale for $4.99
• Jolly Time popcorn x 3: Reg. $1.99 x 3 = $5.97, sale for $1.00 x 3 = $3.00, used 3 MQ for $0.50, Publix doubled = FREE
• Publix margarine: Reg. $0.89
• Maxwell House coffee: Reg. $3.89, sale for $2.50
• Ronzoni Pasta x 2: Reg. $1.39 x 2 = $2.78, BOGO sale = $1.39 for 2
• Halls Cough Drops: Reg. $1.81, sale for $0.91, used $0.50 MQ, Publix doubled = FREE + $0.09 overage
• Texas Toast Croutons: Reg. $1.49, used $0.50 MQ, Publix doubled = $0.49
• Publix Big Roll paper towels: Reg. $1.34, penny item = $0.01
• Daisy Sour Cream (16 oz): Reg. $1.94, sale for $1.67, used $0.50 MQ, Publix doubled = $0.67
• Capri Sun drinks: Reg. $2.69, sale for $2.00
• Rotel Tomatoes: Reg. $1.23, sale for $0.62
• L'oreal Vive Pro Shampoo x 2: Reg. $4.99 x 2 = $9.98, sale for $2.99 x 2 = $5.98, used $4/2 coupon from Walgreens EasySaver Catalog and 2 MQ for $1 each = FREE + $0.02 overage
• Juicy Juice x 2: Reg. $3.49 x 2 = $6.98, BOGO sale = $3.49 for 2, used $0.50/2 MQ, Publix doubled = $2.49 for 2
• Little Debbie Snack Cakes: Reg. $1.79
• Used $5/$25 Piggly Wiggly coupon

Regular Price: $45.88 + $4.13 = $50.01
Total OOP after sales and coupons = $12.73 + $1.64 (tax) = $14.37

Total saving for today's trips = $100.84

CVS and Walgreens Weekly Deals!

Here are the deals I thought were pretty good for this week!

CVS: January 25-31

• They will be running the Pepsi special again. Spend $20, get $10 ECB!


• Revlon Makeup will be BOGO on Sunday and Monday only!


• Russell Stover Chocolate will be $3.99 on Sunday and Monday only!


• Lysol cleaners (select) on sale 2/$5


• Wisk laundry detergent on sale 2/$9 and earns $2 ECB = 2/$7, combine with $1.50/2 MQ from 1/18 RP = 2/$5.50!


• Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Bags are BOGO.


• Ivory soap 3 pack = $0.99


• Almay makeup earns $5 ECB when you buy $10 worth, there is a $1 MQ in the 1/11 SS


• Maybelline Lash Stiletto mascara is $6.99 and earns $2 ECB = $4.99, combine with $1 MQ from 1/18 RP


• Huggies products earn $5 ECB when you buy $20 worth; the products will be on sale, and there are lots of coupons floating around for this stuff.


• Venus Razors on sale for $7.99 and earn $4 ECB, combine with the $4 coupon = FREE


• Advil, Dimetapp, and Robitussin earn $5 ECB when you buy $15 worth. All three of these have coupons in recent papers.


• Arm and Hammer Laundry Detergent is BOGO.


• Head and Shoulders, Pantene, and Gillette Shampoo is on sale for $4.99 and earns $3 ECB = $1.99, there are coupons for all three of these out there!


• Gold Emblem Spices are $0.88 each.


• Craig Digital Converter Box will be $40 (free with government issued coupon) on Sunday and Monday only!

Walgreens: January 25-31

• Red Baron Pizzas are 2/$5, combine with $1/2 MQ from 1/11 SS = $2 each!


• Spring Water 24-pack, use coupon in Walgreens weekly ad for $2.99


• Tide Laundry Detergent is on sale for $5.99, combine with $1 MQ from 12/14 P&G makes this $4.99


• Revlon Colorsilk Hair Color or Root Perfector, use coupon from Walgreens ad for $1.99!


• White Castle Cheeseburgers or Tyson Anytizers snacks are 2/$7, there will be a $0.50 MQ in this Sunday's paper for White Castle, and there are lots of coupons for the Tyson snacks most recently they were in last weeks paper


• Lay's Chips are BOGO


• Pringles are $0.99 a can, and there will be a $0.30/3 MQ this Sunday's paper = $0.89 each when you buy 3


• Cheez-It crackers are on sale for $1.99


• Quaker Oats (large 42 oz can) is $2.49, some areas got a $0.60 MQ in their 1/4 paper


• Kraft Deluxe Mac and Cheese Dinner or Velveeta Shells and Cheese will be 2/$3


• Royal Instant Pudding 4/$1 with coupon from Walgreens weekly ad


• Campbell's Chicken Noodle or Tomato soups are $0.69 each with coupon from Walgreens weekly ad, you can combine with coupons from the 1/4 or 1/11 SS inserts (coupons vary depending on area)


• Bush's baked beans (16 oz can) are $0.99 with coupon from Walgreens weekly ad


• Kraft Mayo or Miracle Whip (32 oz) are on sale for $2.99, combine with $0.75 MQ from 1/18 SS = $2.24!


• Wrigley's Gum (3-pack) including Orbit and Eclipse are 2/$3


• Deerfield Farms cookies on sale for $0.99


• Ultra Alkaline batteries (16-pack) on sale for $5.99


• Walgreens brand cleaning products are BOGO


• Ajax dish liquid is BOGO with coupon from Walgreens weekly ad


• Reynold's Aluminum Foil is $0.89 with coupon from Walgreens weekly ad


• Maybelline lip and nail products are BOGO


• L'oreal HiP line is all BOGO, one scenario would be to buy two of the metallic duo eyeshadows which are $6.99 each, one would be free, combine with 2 MQ for $2.00 each from 1/4 RP = $2.99 for two eyeshadow duos!


• Degree, Dove, and Ban deodorants are all $1.99 with coupon from Walgreens weekly ad


• Edge and Skintimate Shave gels are $1.99 with coupon from Walgreens weekly ad


• Walgreens bar soap 3/$1 with coupon from Walgreens weekly ad


• Walgreens medicines (many) are on sale BOGO


• Carefree Pantiliners are $0.99 with coupon from Walgreens weekly ad, there are $1 MQ you can also use (found in many magazines and the 1/4 RP) making this FREE!


• Frosted Flakes, Rice Krispies, Cap 'n Crunch, and Fruit Loops are all $1.99, combine with $1 MQ from 12/14 RP = $0.99!!


• Colgate Toothpastes are $2.99 and earn $2 RR = $0.99 and there are tons of coupons out there almost every week that would make them $0.25 or FREE

There are lots of other deals from both stores, but these are the deals I thought my readers might want be especially interested in. I hope this helps you get your deals ready!!!

My Walgreens Makeup Trip

I needed some eyeliner yesterday, and I had some time to kill, so where to head but Walgreens!
They had lots of their makeup on clearance, along with shampoo, hairbrushes, etc. I have a couple of $10 RR, so I carefully made my selection. Here's what I got:

• Scunci Ponytail Holders: Reg. $4.99, marked down to $1.69
• Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse Makeup: Reg. $9.49
• Maybelline Dream Mousse Blush: Reg. $7.49, all Maybelline was BOGO
• Cover Girl Lipstick: Reg. $6.54, marked down to $1.79
• Cover Girl Shine Lipstick: Reg. $6.54, marked down to $1.79
• Prestige Precision Eyeliner: Reg. $4.99, marked down to $1.49

Regular Price: $40.04 + $3.60 (tax) = $43.64
After sales: $16.25
Used a coupon for $2.50 off any two Cover Girl products and a coupon for $3 off any Maybelline foundation = $10.75
Paid $10 RR

Total OOP: $0.75 + $1.46 (tax) = $2.21

Publix Deals 1/21-1/27

It looks like Publix has some pretty good deals this week. Here's what I found worth mentioning:

• Bertolli Pasta Sauce: BOGO = $1.40 each


• Campbell's Chunky Soup: BOGO = $1.22 each, buy two and use $0.40/2 MQ from 12/14 SS, Publix doubles making this $1.64/2 or $0.82 each; if Campbell's Healthy Request Chunky is included, use $0.50/2 MQ from 1/4 SS, Publix doubles making it $1.44 for two or $0.72 each


• Assorted Pork Chops: $1.99 lb.


• Curly's Baked Beans 18oz tub: BOGO = $2.00 each


• Oscar Mayer Sliced Bacon: $3.00


• Ball Park Beef Franks: $2.50


• Hillshire Farms Deli Select Lunch Meats: $3.50, combine with $0.55 MQ from 1/4 RP = $2.95 each


• Juicy Juice 64oz.: BOGO = $1.78 each, buy two and use $0.50/2 MQ from 1/4 SS, Publix doubles making this $2.56 for 2 or $1.28 each


• Capri Sun 10-pk: $2.00


• Chef Boyardee: $1.00, buy three and use $0.35/3 MQ from 1/4 SS, Publix doubles making this $2.30 for 3


• Dole Fruit, Gel, or Parfait Bowls: BOGO = $1.35 each, use $0.55/1 Parfait MQ from 1/11 SS = $0.80, or use $0.75/2 Fruit or Gel Bowls from 1/11 SS = $1.94 for 2


• Crystal Light: BOGO = $2.35 each, buy two and use $1/2 MQ printed from http://www.coupons.com/ = $3.69 for 2


• Post Cereal: BOGO = $1.99 each, use $1/2 MQ from this coming Sunday's SS insert (1/25), will make this $2.97 for two ($1.49 each)


• Kellogg's Nutri-Grain Bars: BOGO = $1.85 each


• McCormick Garlic Powder: BOGO = $1.50 each, combine with $0.25 MQ from 1/18 RP, Publix doubles = $1.00


• Ronzoni Pasta: BOGO = $0.70 each


• Uncle Ben's Rice: BOGO = $3.50 each, use $1.00 blinkies found in some Publix stores = $2.50 each


• Maxwell House Coffee: $2.50 each


• Kraft, Seven Seas, or Good Seasons dressing: BOGO = $1.52 each


• A.1 Steak Sauce: BOGO = $1.84 each


• Pace Chunky Salsa: BOGO = $1.40 each, buy 2 and use $0.75/2 MQ from 12/14 SS = $2.04 for two


• Orville Redenbacher's Gourmet Popcorn: BOGO = $2.50 each, combine with $1 MQ from December All You Magazine = $1.50, or use $1/2 coupon from Publix Advantage Flyer making this $4/2


• Keebler Chips Deluxe Cookies or Sandies: BOGO = $2.00 each


• Doritos Chips: BOGO = $2.00 each


• Nabisco Teddy Grahams, Honey Maid, Ritz Bitz, or Kraft Mac and Cheese Crackers: BOGO = $1.50 each


• Entenmann's Pop'ems Glazed Donuts: BOGO = $2.00 each


• Hershey's Kisses: BOGO = $2.75 each


• Emerald Nuts: BOGO = $2.90 each, buy 2 and use $1.50/2 MQ from 1/11 SS = $4.29 for 2


• Pillsbury Rolls: $1.67 each, $0.35 coupon almost every week, Publix doubles = $0.97 each


• Klondike Bars or Ice Cream Sandwiches: $3.00


• Red Baron Pizza: BOGO = $2.95 each, buy 2 and use $1/2 MQ from 1/11 SS = $4.91 for 2


• Bryers Ice Cream: $3.50 each


• Yoplait Yogurt: $0.50 each


• Pillsbury Toaster Strudel: BOGO = $1.28 each, use $1.00 coupon printed from http://www.coupons.com/ = $0.28 each


• L'Oreal Vive Hair Cair Products: $2.99 each, combine with Walgreens coupon, and $1 MQ from 1/4 RP


• Aquafresh Toothpaste: BOGO = $1.30 each, use $0.75 MQ from 1/4 SS = $0.55


• Speed Stick Deodorant: BOGO = $1.40 each


• Halls Cough Drops: BOGO = $0.93 each, depending on which coupon you have, these could be very cheap or free! Coupons are in 1/11 SS

My Weekly CVS Deals:

Here's what I got at CVS this weekend:

Transaction #1:

• Pepsi Brand 12-packs x 7: Reg. $4.99 x 7 = $34.93, sale for $3 x 7 = $21.00, earns $10 ECBs

Regular Price = $34.93 + $2.10 (tax) = $37.03
After Sales and Coupons = $21.00
Paid with ECBs = $19.97
Subtotal = $1.03 + 0.06 (tax) = $1.09, paid with gift card
Total OOP = $0.00
Earned $10 ECBs for next visit and earned a $5/15 coupon!
________________________________

Transaction #2:

• Clairol Natural Instincts Hair Color: Reg. $9.99, sale for $5.99, used $2 MQ, earns $2 ECB
• CVS 24-Hour Relief Allergy Pills x 2: Reg. $4.19 x 2 = $8.38, sale for $3.79 x 2 = $7.58, earns $3.79 ECBs each = $7.58
• Dawn Dish Detergent x 2: Reg. $1.99 x 2 = $3.98, sale BOGO for $1.99, used 2 $0.50 MQ = $0.99 for two
• American Greetings cards x 3: Reg. $0.99 x 3 = $2.97, earns $3 ECB

Regular Price = $25.32 + $1.52 (tax) = $26.84
After Sales and MQ = $15.53
Less $5/15 coupon = $10.53
Paid with ECB = $10.00
Subtotal = $0.53 + 0.21 (tax) = $0.74, paid with gift card
Total OOP = $0.00
Earned $12.58 ECBs for next visit

My Weekly Walgreens Deals

Here's what I got a Walgreens this weekend:

• Mauna Loa Chocolate Covered Macademia Nuts x 2: Reg. price $2.99 x 2 = $5.98, on sale 2/$4, used Instant Value Coupon (IVQ) from Walgreens catalog for $3/2, made my final price $1 for 2
• Ziploc Bags x 2: Reg. $3.99 each x 2 = $7.98, sale 2/$5, used $1/2 MQ = $4/2
• Skippy Peanut Butter x 6: Reg. $2.89 x 6 = $17.34, sale $1.99 x 6 = $11.94, used 5 MQ for $0.40 each = $2.00, making this $9.94 for 6
• Ragu Spaghetti Sauce x 2: Reg. $2.99 x 2 = $5.98, sale for $1.99 x 2 = $3.98, used $0.50/2 MQ = $3.48 for 2

Regular Price = $37.28
After Sales and Coupons = $18.42
Used $10 RR from last week
Total OOP = $8.42 + $2.24 (tax) = $10.66
Earned $10 RR for next visit

My Publix Deals

This weekend at Publix I got $106.04 worth of groceries for $46.81. Here's how I did it:

• Tyson Quesadillas: Reg. $6.59, sale for $4.99
• Birds Eye Steamfresh Meal for two: Reg. $6.99, sale for $4.99
• Lender's Bagels: Reg. $2.09, sale for $1.05
• Kashi Pizza: Reg. $5.99, sale for $2.99
• Pringles 18-pack snack stacks: $6.49
• Sour Cream x 2: Reg. $1.45 x 2 = $2.90, sale for $0.99 x 2 = $1.98
• Jolly Time Popcorn: Reg. $1.99, sale for $1.00
• Heluva Good Dip: Reg. $2.00, sale for $1.50
• Banquet Brown 'N Serve Turkey Sausage x 3: Reg. $1.89 x 3 = $5.67, sale for $2.84 for 3
• Bread: $1.69
• Little Debbie Cakes: $1.79
• Dominos Sugar: Reg. $2.99, sale for $1.99
• Tyson Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenderloins: Reg. $7.79, sale for $4.99
• Kim and Scott's Stuffed Gourmet Pretzels: Reg. $4.99, sale for $2.50
• Cheese Singles: $2.59
• Mott's Apple Juice x 2: Reg. $2.59 x 2 = $5.18, sale for $2.59 for 2
• Green Giant Boxed Veggies x 2: Reg. $1.75 x 2 = $3.50, sale for $1.00 x 2 = $2.00
• Smucker's Preserves: Reg. $3.29, sale for $1.65
• Mustard: $1.15
• Lawry's Marinade: Reg. $2.85, sale for $1.43
• Eggo Waffles x 2: Reg. $2.39 x 2 = $4.78, sale for $2.39 for 2
• Quaker Oatmeal x 2: Reg. $3.75 x 2 = $7.50, sale for $3.75 for 2
• Betty Crocker Muffin Mix: Reg. $2.59, sale for $1.30
• Kashi Blackberry Cereal Bars: Reg. $3.89

Regular Price = $97.28 + $8.76 (tax) = $106.04
After Sales = $63.53 + $5.72 (tax) = $69.25

Coupons used:
-$5/25 purchase
-$2 Birds Eye Steamfresh Meals
-$1 Pringles (Publix Q)
-$1 Pringles (MQ)
-$0.50 Jolly Time Popcorn doubled = -$1.00
-$0.50 Heluva Good Dip doubled = -$1.00
-$1 Tyson
-$0.50/2 Green Giant doubled = -$1.00
-$0.35 Smuckers doubled = -$0.70
-$0.75 Kellogg's x 2 = -$1.50
-$1 Quaker Oatmeal x 2 = -$2.00
-$0.40 Betty Crocker Muffins doubled = -$0.80
-$3.79 Kashi Cereal Bar

Total coupons used = $21.79
Total OOP = $41.74 + $5.07 (tax) = $46.81

Summary from Week 2

Here's my grocery summary from week 2, 2009:

Week 2:
Money Spent = $53.30
Money Saved = $138.90

YTD:
Remaining = $2,505.44
Money Saved = $307.31

What do I do with this stuff?

People are always asking me if I buy things I don't use. Yes, I do buy many things I don't use, if they are very cheap. And if they're free or money maker item, you better believe I'll take them. I don't believe in cheating the system by having multiple cards to stores where the limit is one card per household. I follow the rules, so other people can get the deals too!

The next question people often have is what do I do with the things I don't use. First, I'll give the items to friends or family if I know they use certain things that I have. They will love you for this, and if you're lucky they might offer to buy your lunch or start saving the coupons from their paper for you!

One of my goals for 2009 is to donate unused items to charitable organizations each month. I'm planning to throw together at least two baskets, or totes, for men, two for women, and two for children each month to donate to local shelters. My desire is to be able to spend time with the people there each month, when I drop of my donations. I think it will be a very uplifting experience!

What do you guys think?
What do you do with your surplus?

Publix Weekly Deals

Here is a list of the Publix deals that I thought were notable:

• Publix salad blend: BOGO = $1.50 each
• Tostitos Chips, or Salsa: BOGO = $2.50 each, there are $2 coupons taped to the top of the jars at many stores. You can purchase two bags of chips and a jar of salso for $5.47
• Banquet Brown 'N Serve sausage links: BOGO = $0.95 each
• Tyson Chicken Tenderloins: $4.99, combine with $1 MQ from 10/19 SS = $3.99
• Hebrew National Kosher All Beef Franks: BOGO = $2.40 each
• Pompeian Olive Oil: BOGO = $2.75, combine with $1 printable coupon = $1.75
• Hellmann's Mayonnaise: BOGO = $2.53, combine with $0.60 coupon from 11/16 RP = $1.93
• Smuckers's preserves, spread, jelly, jam or marmalade: BOGO = $1.69, combine with $0.50 MQ from 1/11 insert, Publix doubles = $0.69 each
• Lawry's marinade: BOGO = $1.30 each
• Quaker instant oatmeal: BOGO, combine with $1.35/2 MQ from 1/4 RP = $2.38 for two or $1.19 each
• Duncan Hines Brownie Mix: BOGO = $1.30 each
• Kellogg's Cereals (select): BOGO = $2.10, combine with $1/1 MQ from 12/14 RP = $1.10
• Mueller's Pasta: BOGO = $0.75 each
• Del Monte Canned Veggies: BOGO = $0.67 each
• Mott's Apple Juice, Mott's for Tots, Plus Kid's Health or Plus Light: BOGO = $1.32, combine with $1 MQ from 12/7 SS = $0.32
• Mott's Apple Sauce: $1.67 each
• Nabisco Ritz Crackers: BOGO = $1.69 each
• Publix Cookies: 2 for $4
• Snickers, Milky Way, 3 Musketeers, or Twix Bars 6 pack: BOGO = $2.15 each
• Thomas' English Muffins: BOGO = $1.50
• Publix Sour Cream: $0.99
• I can't believe it's not butter: BOGO = $1.48each
• Lender's Bagels: BOGO = $1.07 each
• Yoplait Go-Gurt: BOGO = $1.51 each, combine with $0.35 MQ from 1/4 SS, Publix doubles = $0.81 each
• Sargento Shredded Cheese: 2 for $4, combine with $1/2 MQ from 11/16 RP = $3 for two
• Whole Fruit Sorbet: BOGO = $1.50 each
• Birds Eye Steamfresh Meals for Two: $4.99, combine with $2 MQ from 1/11 insert = $2.99 each
• Green Giant Frozen Boxed Veggies: $1.00 each, combine with $1/2 MQ from 12/7 SS = $0.50 each
• Kim and Scott's Gourmet Soft Pretzels: BOGO = $2.50 each
• Electrasol Gelpacs or Powerball tabs: BOGO = $3.90 each, combine with $2.50 MQ from 1/4 SS = $1.40 each
• Lysol All Purpose Spray: BOGO = $1.35, combine with $1 MQ from 1/4 SS = $0.35 each
• Tropicana Orange Juice: 2 for $6, combine with $1/2 MQ from 1/4 RP = 2 for $5
• Betty Crocker Premium Muffin Mix: BOGO = $1.30 each, combine with $0.40 MQ from 12/14 SS, Publix doubles = $0.50 each
• Quaker Instant Grits: BOGO = $1.25
• Aunt Jemima Syrup: BOGO = $1.94, buy 2 and use $1/2 MQ from 1/4 RP = $2.87 for 2 = $1.43 each

Hold tight!

Okay, I'm working on a couple of stores' ads, but I'm still adjusting to the fast pace of nursing school, so hold tight! I'll be posting some great deals found at Publix, Winn-Dixie, and possibly one other store. I'll also be posting some more upcoming CVS and Walgreens deals!

This weeks deals CVS, Walgreens, and Food Giant

I decided to make my weekly trip today since I got out of class a little early. Check out the deals on Pepsi products at Walgreens. If you buy 7 for $21, you earn $10 back which makes these $1.57 per 12 pack! Not to mention, you can go to Pepsi's website and fill out their rebate for Pepsi products!!

Stop #1: CVS

• Maybelline Dream Mousse Foundation x 2: Reg. $9.49 x 2 = $18.98, sale for $6.99, used 2 MQ for $3 each = $7.98 earned $5 ECB when you spend $10 on Maybelline (before coupons)

Regular price: $20.12 (tax included)
After sales: $13.98
Used 2 coupons for $3 = $7.98
Paid with ECB = $7.99
Subtotal = -$0.01 + $0.36 (tax) = $0.35 paid on gift card

OOP = $0.00, earned $5.00 ECB
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Stop #2: CVS

• Hershey's jumbo candy bar x 2: Reg. price $1.99 x 2 = $3.98, sale for $1.50 = $3.00, earns $1 ECB
• Kotex twin pack: Reg. price $4.99, sale for $3.27, used $1 coupon, earns $2 ECB
• Glade Plug-In twin pack x 2: Reg. price $5.99 x 2 = $11.98, sale for $5.49 x 2 = $10.98, used BOGO coupon = $5.49 for 2, each one earns $2 ECB = $4 ECB
• Insfusium 23 Shampoo: Reg. price $7.49, sale for $1.87, used $3 coupon! MONEY MAKER!!

Regular price: $31.28 (tax included)
After sales: $19.12
Used coupons for $9.49
Paid with ECB = $8.49
Subtotal = -$0.64 + $1.01 (tax) = $1.65 paid on gift card

OOP = $0.00, earned $7 ECB
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Stop #3: Walgreens

• Pepsi 12 packs x 7: Reg. price = $4.29 x 7 = $30.03, sale for $3 each = $21.00

Regular price: $33.03 (tax included)
After sales: $21.00
Received $3 off $10 purchase
Used $4 RR
Subtotal = $14.00 + $1.80 (tax)
Paid $13.58 on gift card

OOP = $2.22, earned $10 RR
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Stop #4: Food Giant

• Luvs jumbo box of diapers: $12.99! I'm so glad I found this out. If you calculate the cost per diaper, Walmart is almost double this!
• Ground beef (4.02 lbs.): $1.88 per pound = $7.56
• Gwaltney lunch meat: $1.99 x 2 = $3.98

I don't know what the regular prices are for these items, but I saved a lot compared to what I usually spend on these!

OOP = $26.74

My daily deals

Last night, I found two more Garnier coupons that I had in my Walgreens envelope. So, off to Walgreens we went. DH went with me today for a little coupon experience. Here's what we got:

• Garnier Glistening Drops: Reg. $3.99, sale for $2.99, used $2 EasySaver coupon and $1 manufacturer's coupon = FREE
• Garnier Shampoo: Reg. $3.99, sale for $2.99, used $2 ESQ and $1 MQ = FREE
• Dog Food x 3 cans: Reg. $0.99 x 3 = $2.97
• Dryer Sheets: $2.99

Regular price: $15.19 (including tax)
Subtotal: $5.94
Used $5.00 RR
Paid $0.94 + $1.07 (tax) = $2.01 on Walgreens gift card

Total OOP = $0.00
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Next, we had a quick lunch at Firehouse Subs. DH was excited because he found coupons for our lunch. So we saved $7.94 and enjoyed yummy lunch. Afterwards, we headed to Walmart for a portable DVD case. We have been searching for one since Christmas, and finally found one. Including tax, it was $16.15 which we put on a Visa gift card that we had.

Then, it was on to Publix. I decided to go ahead and get my Publix trip in today, since the penny item is saltine crackers, and we're not in need of those. But you never know. I might go back tomorrow to take advantage of their canned chicken that is BOGO free this week.
Here's what we got:

• Ruffles Chips x 2: Reg. $3.99 each, BOGO sale = $3.99 for two
• Smithfield bacon x 2: Reg. $3.99 each, BOGO sale = $3.99 for two
• Cover Girl Eyeshadow: $2.99
• Milk: $3.29
• Carnation Instant Breakfast: Reg. $4.99, sale for $3.99
• Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks x 2: Reg. $2.69 each, BOGO sale = $2.69 for two
• Tostitos Creamy Dip: $3.69 (I thought this was on sale... I guess not)
• Valley Fresh Canned Chicken x 4: Reg. $3.59 each, BOGO sale = $7.18 for four (these were very large cans of chicken, and I normally pay the same price at Aldi for the cans that are about 2 oz. smaller, so this is a great deal to me)

Regular price: $55.21 (including tax)
After sales: $31.72
Coupons used: $5/25 Piggly Wiggly coupon, $2 Peelie on Ruffles and Dip, $0.50 Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks coupon doubled, $1 Carnation blinkie coupon, $2 Cover Girl Publix coupon, $1 Cover Girl MQ = $12.00 in coupons

Total OOP = $22.18 (including tax)
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As we were driving home, I realized I forgot to get eggs. So, we had to make a pit stop at Lee's Country Store (right next to the Dew Drop In), and I should have taken some pictures for all my readers who've never had the pleasure of shopping at Lee's. Anyway, I figured I would have to pay about $3 for eggs. Nah, they were only $1.99. We went the post-Christmas party for our Sunday school class. We had a nice time, and afterwards had a date night, because DS is staying with his grandmother. We enjoyed a nice (almost free) trip to the movies to see Marley & Me.

I think that's about it! I'm calling it a night!

Upcoming deals and weekly savings!

Here are some upcoming deals. I wanted to give you guys a heads up, so you can be watching for coupons. Again, these are just the ones that I saw that stuck out.

Upcoming CVS deals:

• Glade Plugins: $5.99, earns $2 ECB, use the BOGO coupon from 12/7 SS will earn you $4 ECB = $1.99 for two
• Febreeze candles: at some stores these are $1.99, use $2 MQ from 12/28 P&G = FREE
• M&M's Cupid Mix: Sale 2/$5, earns $2 ECB = 2/$3
• Maybelline: get $5 ECB when you spend $10 on Maybelline, there are some $3 coupons out there, making this a pretty good deal, depending on what you purchase
• Cheez-It Bonus pack (2 boxes): $6.00, earns $3 ECB
• Fiber One or Nature Valley (2 pack): $6.99, earns $3 ECB, lots of different coupons on this
• Kotex (2 pack): $4.99, earns $ ECB, use $1 MQ from this coming Sunday's paper
• Revlon: BOGO, $1 MQ from 12/7 SS
• Pepsi products: Spend $20, get $10 ECB (this is a deal they will have in a few weeks away, but be on the lookout for Pepsi coupons and rebates!)

Walgreens has a similar deal on Pepsi products coming up, where you earn RR for purchasing a certain amount of Pepsi. I'm not sure of all the details of this one, but I'll let you guys know.

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At $50 weekly, we have $2600 yearly budgeted for food, cleaning supplies, diapers, makeup, toothpaste, medicine, dog food, etc. I am also including my cost to obtain coupons (newspapers, clipping companies, etc.)

Week 1:
Money Spent = $41.26
Money Saved = $168.41

YTD:
Remaining = $2,558.74
Money Saved = $168.41

My deals for the week

Yesterday, I had the pleasure of attending a real coupon meeting/swap! I met some wonderful ladies who shared some great information! If you live in the Birmingham area and are free on January 31st, let me know and I'll give you details of the next big event!

Now, on with the deals!

My first stop was CVS:

• Nutra-Trim Gum: Reg. $4.99, sale for $3.99, earns $3.99
• Kid's Throat Cooler Ice Pops: $4.99, earns $4.99
• Vitamin Brand Shampoo: $6.99, had a "Try Me Free" $6.99 Rebate attached

Regular price: $18.50 (tax included)
Subtotal: $15.97
Paid: $15.48 ECBs
OOP = $0.53 (tax included) and earned $8.98 ECB, and $6.99 mail in rebate
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Next stop was Walgreens:

Transaction #1:

• Revlon Matte Blush: $9.99, EasySaver Rebate item earns $9.99 on gift card
• Reynold's Wrap Aluminum Foil 20 ft: Reg. $1.69, use Q in weekly ad making it $0.99, and used $1.00 MQ = FREE

Regular price: $12.73 (tax included)
Subtotal: $9.98
Used $5 RR and $4.50 RR
Paid $1.97 on debit card by mistake! I wasn't thinking and pulled out the wrong card! It should have been on my gift card, but I'll save it for something else.
OOP = $1.97 (tax included)

Transaction #2:

• Theraflu Warming Liquid x 2: Reg $5.99 each x 2 = $11.98, on sale for $5 each = $10.00

Regular price: $13.06 (tax included)
Subtotal: $10.00
Used $5 RR and 2 MQs for $2 each
Paid $1.40 (tax included) with gift card and earned $5 RR
OOP = $0.00
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Last stop, Walmart:

• Suave Advanced Therapy Moisturizing Lotion x 3: $0.97 each, used $1.00 Q on each (12/14 SS) = Money Maker $0.09
• Beechnut Let's Grow Meal: $1.06, used $1.00 Q (I believe Sunday's paper) = $0.06
• Costco Carseat: $54.50
• All You Special Edition Magazine: $3.98 (has a page of coupons in the back)
• Iams Healthy Naturals Dog Food: $6.87, used $3 Q = $3.87

Regular price: $75.56 (tax included)
Subtotal: $62.32 + tax = $68.56
Paid $28.09 with gift cards recently earned
OOP = $40.47

Year to date savings!

Okay, I know we're only 4 days in, but I'm tracking everything!!

CVS Totals:
Spent year-to-date: $1.45
Saved year-to-date: $61.31

Walgreens Totals:
Spent year-to-date: $0.00
Saved year-to-date: $35.52

Super Saving Sunday!

I made three stops today. Here's what I got:

First stop: Walgreens

• 6-pk. Raisins: Reg. $1.00
• Pencil Mate Mechanical Pencils: Reg. $2.99, sale for $0.99
• SlimQuick Energy drinks: Reg. $4.99, sale for $4.00, earns $4.00 RR
• Electrasol Gelpacs: Reg. $3.99, sale for $3.49, used $2.50 MQ from 1/4 SS, and earns $1.50 ESR (Money Maker)
• Garnier Fructis Shampoo: Reg. $3.99, sale for $2.99, used $2 EasySaver Q and $1 MQ = FREE
• Garnier Fructis Glisten Drops: Reg. $3.99, sale for $2.99, used $2 EasySaver Q and $1 MQ = FREE
• Palmolive Soap: Reg. $1.99, sale for $1.79, used $1.00 EasySaver Q and $0.50 MQ from Fred's paper last week = $0.29
• Glade Scented Oil Candle Refills x 2: Reg. $2.99 x 2 = $5.98, sale 2/$5, used $2.50 MQ and earned $2 ESR = $0.50 for two
• Russell Stover Candy (filler item) = $0.59

Regular price: $35.52 (tax included)

Subtotal: $11.71 (tax included)

Used $10 RR

Paid $1.71 with gift card and earned $4 RR

OOP = $0.00

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Next stop: CVS

• Cottonelle Toilet Paper 20-pk: Reg. $12.99, sale for $12.97, used $0.50 MQ, earns $4 ECB
• Nutra-Trim Gum: Reg. $4.99, sale for $3.99, earns $3.99
• L'Oreal Eyeshadow x 2: Reg. $4.99 x 2 = $9.98, sale BOGO = $4.99/2, used two MQ for $2.00 off any eye product = $0.99 for two
• Nasogel: Reg. $7.99, earns $7.99

Regular price: $39.55 (tax included)

Subtotal: $25.44

Used $5/$25 coupon received via email

Paid $19.99 ECBs

OOP = $0.95 (tax included) and earned $15.98 ECB

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Last stop: Publix

• Barilla pasta: Reg. $1.37, BOGO sale = $0.69
• Betty Crocker boxed potatoes x 2: Reg. $1.79 x 2 = $3.58, BOGO sale = $1.79, used two $0.35 MQ, Publix doubled = $0.39 for two
• Pillsbury Savorings: Reg. $3.99, BOGO sale = $2.00, used $1.00 printable MQ = $1.00
• Publix Frosted Flakes: Reg. $2.59, Penny Mystery Item = $0.01
• Publix Bread: Reg. $1.13, sale for $0.89
• Taco Bell Dinner Kit: Reg. $2.69, BOGO sale for $1.35
• Little Debbie Cakes: Reg. $1.59
• Kellogg's Pop-Tarts: Reg. $1.99, BOGO sale for $0.99, used $0.55 MQ = $0.44
• Totino's Pizza Rolls: Reg. $3.99, BOGO sale = $2.00, used $0.35 MQ, Publix doubled = $1.30
• General Mills Cereal x 3: Reg. $10.93, sale for $1.99 x 3 = $5.97, used $1/3 Q = $4.97 for 3
• Publix Milk: $3.29
• Donation to the special olympics $1.00

Regular price: $41.57 (tax included)
OOP = $18.68 (tax included)

Check your email

ATTENTION CVS CARDHOLDERS:
Check your email! I got a surprise $5 off $25 purchase coupon! I get so excited when I get these! It will work great with your January ECB purchases!

Happy shopping!

Coupons, coupons, coupons!!!

If you have not yet subscribed to your local newspaper, now is a perfect time! This coming Sunday, there will be 5, yes FIVE, coupons inserts! I did a quick count and came up with $385.48 worth of coupons, and that doesn't include the value if your store doubles some coupons! I will definitely be picking up some extra copies of the paper this week!

Also, if you like to print coupons, you can visit www.coupons.com for all the new coupons!

CVS January 1st Trip

I wanted to go ahead and get the January ECB deals, just in case they sold out. The monthly items you get free after ECBs are:
--Kids' Throat Cooler Pops 6-count, $4.99, earns $4.99 (limit 5)
--Nasogel Drip Free Gel, $7.99, earns $7.99 (limit 2)
--Nutra-Trim Chewing Gum 48-count, $3.99, earns $3.99 (limit 2)

So, today I got:

• Nasogel Drip Free Gel, $7.99
• Kids' Throat Cooler Pops x 2, $9.98
• Nutra-Trim Chewing Gum, Reg. $4.99, sale for $3.99

I used a coupon that printed on my receipt a few weeks ago for $2.50 off any pain reliever purchase of $10 or more. I asked my cashier if it would work, since it was expiring today. She scanned it and it worked!

Subtotal: 21.96 + tax = $23.27

-$2.50 CVS pain reliever coupon

-$16.97 ECB

-$2.14 CVS gift card that I found from 2004!!! I found this the other day when I was cleaning out my desk!

TOTAL OOP: $0.50! And I earned $23.46 ECB (including my quarterly rewards!)