All who have accomplished great things have had a great aim, have fixed their gaze on a goal which was high, one which sometimes seemed impossible....

April 29, 2009

Harpers Island Episode Three

Harper's Island Episode Three "Ka-Blam"

Could this post be any later? I wanted to post this earlier in the week/weekend but someone (wont mention any names...Mom) hadn't watched the episode yet. Then I completely forgot! Oh well, here we go.

Who was Killed?

Hunter Jennings: Hunter was killed by a booby trapped engine compartment on the boat. It was rigged with a shot gun and when he opened it, Ka Blam! He was shot in the head. I was shocked that hunter died this way. I was glad to see him go though.

Some clues I picked up from the show:

*We now know who the tattoo belonged to. Kelly and it seemed to be one of many attributed to John Wakefield. We also learn her ex-boyfriend Shane gave her the tattoos.

*It was indeed Uncle Marty's bag in the boat with Hunter....but how did he get it?

*The shotgun that was used to kill Hunter was from the Candlewick Inn. Another link back to the killer possibly staying at the Inn.

*The boat was rigged to stall or run out of gas....Henry worked with and grew up with boats. Interesting....

*There was a gun on the bed in the Wellington suite in the scene with Richard and Katherine.

Also, here is a synopsis of the third episode from HarpersGlobe.com.

Here is a preview for the Fourth Episode:

"Bang" will be the fourth episode of Harper's Island, and is scheduled to be broadcast on May 2, 2009.

The official CBS summary reads: "The groomsmen take Henry Dunn fishing for his bachelor party and make a gruesome discovery. The bridesmaids celebrate Trish Wellington's final days as a bachelorette with a psychic who has a very strong reaction to Abby Mills".

April 28, 2009

Walgreen's Trippin'


The last few trips were so bitter sweet for me. I had a couple of RR's that I needed to roll into rebates so I decided to go with the Physicians Formula. As you know the Easy Saver Rebate Program and the Catalog has ended at Walgreen's so I had to get my one last deal in before I submitted. I have 3 $3 RR's from Edge shave gel to spend. I paid down my OOP for the Degree, Chapstick and Pledge with the Edge RR's.

Transaction #1:
(6) Trial Size Degree Deodorants reg. $.99
*Received $6 RR for purchase of 6
Final Price = FREE

(2) Pledge Pet Hair Sweepers on Sale $7/2
*Used (2) $2/1 IP's
*Received $1 RR
Final Price = $2/2

Chapstick Naturals Shimmer on Sale $1.99
*Received $2.00 RR
Final Price = FREE

Transaction #2:
(6) Trial Size Degree Deodorants reg. $.99
*Received $6 RR for purchase of 6
Final Price = FREE

(2) Pledge Multi-Surface Spray on Sale $7/2
*Used (2) $2/1 IP's
*Received $1 RR
Final Price = $2/2

Chapstick Naturals Botanicals on Sale $1.99
*Received $2.00 RR
Final Price = FREE

Transaction #3:

Chapstick Naturals Botanicals on Sale $1.99
*Received $2.00 RR
Final Price = FREE

Now at this point I have accumulated $20 in RR's!!

Transaction #4:

Physicians Formula Blush/Bronzer on Sale $8.29
Physicians Formula Eyeshadow $4.79
*Used (2) $1/1 coupon
Final Price before Rebate = $11.08

Chapstick Naturals Butter on Sale $1.99
*Received $2.00 RR
Final Price = FREE

(3) Dawn Dish Soap reg. $1.99
*Used In Ad IVC to take off $1 each
*Used $.25/1 coupon
Final Price = $2.22/3

(2) Soy Joy Bars on Sale $1/2
*Used BOGO coupon
Final Price = $.50/2

Now at checkout I have 8 products but only 6 coupons (IVC's don't count towards total coupon count) I use the Chapstick and the other Soy Joy as fillers to use my $6 RR's.

My Total Before RR's is: $15.79 (plus tax)
My Total After (2) $6.00 RR's is: $3.79 and I also received a $2 RR for the Chapstick!!

I'll be getting back $10.00 for my rebate + 10% for having it go on my card = $11.00

So I only paid $.08 for the makeup and my RR's are rolled into my card where they cannot expire!

April 25, 2009

I battled K-Mart and I won

I cannot tell you how nervous I was for this promotion at K-Mart. After everything I'd heard about the register not recognizing coupons, cashier entering in wrong coupons and items not being available I was unsure if I even wanted to brave this one.

This was my first real K-Mart Double and Triple Event. I grabbed a few things and the one in January just to see how everything worked. So, I began to save coupons to prep for one in the future and just when I thought another one would never come, I find out the DAY BEFORE that it is actually coming to St. Louis and to my local store. I called 2 weeks prior to the event and the manager said they would not be participating so I had to rush to get my coupons together last minute. I did the best I could and I am happy with the results. Word of advice if it comes around again, don't sleep in. Be there when it opens. It's worth it.

The Rules: There was a 25 item limit per person, per day and a limit of 4 on identical coupons. I didn't follow this very well but that's typical for me. I did 2 transactions the first day and the other three the following few days. I also purchased 20 of one product using 20 coupons and 14 of another using 14 coupons but I asked ahead of time and they said it was Ok. It was an item not a lot of people had coupons for so what wasn't hot for anyone else was hot for me!

Also, any coupon value up to $.75 could be tripled and any coupon above $.75 and to $4.00 could be doubled. Internet Printables (IP's) were accepted. All coupons doubled but none would produce overage. Let's take the Aveeno for example: It's regularly priced at $3.19 and I had coupons for $2/1. The register takes off the initial $2.00 and then another $1.19.

Transaction #1:

(4) Whiska's Purrfectly Fish 10 pk. packages reg. $5.12
*Used (2) $2.00/1 IP's that each doubled to $4.00
Final Price = $4.48/4

(3) AquaFresh Toothpastes on Sale $1.00
*Used (3) $1/1 IP's
Final Price = FREE

(2) Goodlife Cat Treats on Sale $4/2
*Used (2) $1.00 IP's that doubled to $2.00
Final Price = FREE

(4) Aveeno Lotions reg. $3.19
*Used (4) $2.00/1 IP's that doubled
Final Price = FREE

(2) Glade 3 Wick Candles on Sale $7.99
*Used (2) $4/1 IP's that doubled
Final Price = FREE

(4) Sally Hansen Nailpolish reg. $2.30
*Used $1/1 found in K-Mart Catalog that doubled
Final Price = $1.20/4

Sesame Street Bubble Bath reg $2.49
*Used $.50/ IP that tripled to $1.50
Final Price = $.99

Transaction #2:

(4) Trail Mix Crunch Cereal on Sale $2.49
*Used (4) $1.50/1 IP's that doubled
Final Price = FREE

(4) Oust Air and Surface on Sale $3.79
*Used (4) $2/1 coupons that doubled
Final Price = FREE

(2) Right Guard Deodorants on Sale $2.49
*Used (2) $1/1 coupons that doubled
Final Price = $.98/2

Glade 3 Wick Candle on Sale $7.99
*Used $4/1 IP that doubled
Final Price = FREE

Renuzit Spray on Sale $1.79
*Used $1/1 coupon that doubled
Final Price = FREE

Aveeno Shave Cream on Clearance $2.44
*Used $1/1 coupon that doubled
Final Price = $.44

(2) Aveeno Lotion reg. $3.19
*Used (2) $2/1 IP's that doubled
Final Price = FREE

Transaction #3:

(2) Marcal Small Steps 4 pack reg. $2.99
*Used (2) $1/1 coupon that doubled
Final Price = $1.98/2

(20) AMP Energy on Sale $3/2
*Used (20) $1/1 coupons that doubled
Final Price = FREE

(14) KY Silk, Silk Warming and Warming reg. $4.59 - $6.49
*Used (14) $3/1 coupons that doubled
Final Price = $5.39/14

Received a $2.00 on your next purchase coupon.

Note: This was the funniest transaction! KY, TP and Energy Drinks! I planned it this way because I can't help but make a cashier blush. She didn't even flinch but I giggled during the whole transaction. She probably thought I was in for the night of my life. Ha Ha!

I'm sure your asking what I'll do with all the KY huh? Sell it. I sold half of it on Ebay already. Pretty little profit :)

Transaction #4:

(2) Special K Cereal reg. $3.99
*Used (2) $1/1 coupons that doubled
- $2.00 OYNP coupon (was credited to the Kellogs)
Final Price = $1.98/2

(2) Flipz Snacks reg. $2.29
*Used (2) $.50/1 coupons that tripled
Final Price = $1.58/2

(2) Pledge Multi-Surface reg. $4.19
*Used (2) $2/1 IP's that doubled
Final Price = $.38/2

(2) Hershey's Bliss on Sale $6/2
*Used (2) $1/1 IP's that doubled
Final Price = $2.00/2

Glade 3 Wick Candle on Sale $7.99
*Used $4/1 IP that doubled
Final Price = FREE

Transaction #5:

(2) Yesterdays News Cat Litter reg. $6.69
*Used (2) $3/1 IP's that doubled
Final Price = $1.38/2

Natures Source Cleaner on Sale $2.79
*Used $1/1 coupon that doubled
Final Price = $.79

(2) Halls Naturals Cough Drops reg. $1.99
*Used (2) $.75/1 that tripled
Final Price = $.98/2

(2) Kotex Pantyliners reg. $1.29
*Used (2) $1/1 IP's that doubled
Final Price = FREE

(2) AquaFresh Toothpastes on Sale $1.00
*Used (2) $1/1 IP's
Final Price = FREE

Trail Mix Crunch Cereal on Sale $2.49
*Used $1.50/1 IP's that doubled
Final Price = FREE

Not Pictured, threw it in freezer:

(2) Coffee Mate Creamer reg. $2.29
*Used (2) $1/1 IP's that doubled
Final Price = $.58/2

Received $.75 on your next purchase coupon

I still have some shopping to do today to finish out my coupons but in case I don't I thought I might as well post while I had time to. Also, I heard from a little bird (HCW) that the next event could be as soon as 5.2!

April 23, 2009

Things are looking up!

But, I'm waiting for the other shoe to drop. I'm hoping things can get back to normal soon because I'm not sure we can take anymore stress. For now though, things are getting much better.

Police Investigation revealed the driver had active insurance on the vehicle. Or should I say his mother did. At that age, who'd mother carries insurance on their son's vehicle? His girlfriend should be so proud of her boyfriend. What a winner!

I've been dealing with the insurance company for the last week. At times, I want to pull my hair out. This is a public blog so we wont get to far into it but the bottom line is they have accepted responsibility for the accident. My car went from being looked at by a rep for the company, then to my mechanic and is now sitting at a transmission company. So far my exterior damage is $1,800.00, not bad considering I was hit by a boat. I'm proud of my Honda!

Until, my car is finished being looked at by the mechanic they gave me this zippy little Mazda 5 to drive around. My car has an upgraded/faster engine so I'm used to getting up and going and when I first walked out and saw this, I couldn't help but think "Oh great, a grandma car". No way!

I'll be sad to return it but I can't wait to settle the accident portion of my claim.

As for the injury portion, I've hired an attorney to settle this. The insurance company is not taking me serious and I'm not letting it slide. I wont even get in to their offer because we are no where near settlement but it was a HUGE smack in the face after all the pain and stress I went through re-guarding the accident.

I also have news on the house but I'll save that for later post :)

Walgreen's Deals Week of 4.19


This is a BIG Money Maker week at Wags. Here are the best deals:

TRESemme 24 Hour Body Hair Care on Sale $7/2
*Purchase 2 products - I recommend the Shampoo and Conditioner 32 ounce (best deal)
*Use 2 - $1/1 IP coupons I mentioned last week
*Receive $2 RR with the purchase of 2
Final Price = $3/2


Nivea Body Wash 16.9 ounce on Sale $4.99
*Use $1/1 IP I mentioned last week
*Receive $5.00 RR
Final Price = $1.00 Overage!

Bayer Breeze2 or Contour Blood Glucose Meter on Sale $14.99

*Use $30/1 coupon from varies inserts (will take off sale price)
*Receive $5.00 RR
Final Price = $5.00 Overage!

Rembrandt Toothpaste on Sale $5.99
*Receive $6.00 RR
Final Price = FREE after Register Reward!

Starbuck's Ice Cream Pint on Sale $6/2
*Use 2 - $1/1 IP's
Final Price = $4/2

Bayer Quick Release Crystals on Sale $2.49

*Receive $2.50 RR
Final Price = FREE after Register Reward!

Scotch Packing Tape on Sale $.99
*Use $1/1 tearpad
Final Price = FREE

Ecotrin 45 count Tablets on Sale $2.00
*$1/1 from 1.25 SS
*Receive $2.00 RR
Final Price = $1 Overage!

Remember:
Only 1 RR deal good per transaction. If you purchase more than one IDENTICAL RR item in one transaction, only one RR will print.

Here is my rolling scenario for the Bayer, Ecotrin and the Nivea:

Transaction #1:

Bayer Blood Glucose Monitor = $14.99
- coupon = pay only tax
Receive $5.00 RR

Transaction #2:

Nivea Body Wash = $4.99
- $1/1 coupon = $3.99
Ecotrin = $2.00 (not using $1/1 coupon)
- $5.00 Bayer RR

Pay $.99 + tax out of pocket and receive $5.00 RR from Nivea and $2.00 RR from Ecotrin

Rinse and Repeat!!!

You could use another filler or fillers when doing Transaction #2 but they have to total $1.01 or more because the register will not take a RR to pay for any tax. Your total has to equal $5.00 BEFORE tax. You also have to make sure you don't have more coupons than items or register will not take the coupons.

April 22, 2009

Starbuck's Coupon

Go here to print a $1/1 on any pint of the NEW Starbucks Ice Cream!

The New Flavors are Caramel Macchiato, Mocha Frappuccino, Java Chip Frappuccino and Coffee!

Calling all Animal Lovers! FREE ASPCA Safety Pack


I know I have a lot of animal lovers and owners that read my blog. Especially the STLwed Gals.


Go here and sign up for your ASPCA Safety Pack.

You will receive a window decal to let rescue workers know there are pets inside your home if there is an emergency. You will also receive an ASPCA Poison Control Center magnet with a toll free number and web site address in case your pets get into any household items they shouldn’t.

Thank You to Coupon Cravings for this Deal Alert!

NEW $4 Glade Fragrance Collection Coupon!


Some of my readers weren't able to get this coupon last time. It's back but you better hurry! Pair this with the $3 or $2 Walgreen's coupon or take it to KMart to double for free candles!

Print your $4 off any item in the Fragrance Collection coupon here.

April 21, 2009

Harper's Island Episode Two

Harper's Island Episode Two "Crackle"

I had to watch this episode 4 times to get every little piece of info out of it I could.

Who was Killed?

Two out of three killed in this episode were main characters.

Reverend Fain:
I did NOT see this one coming! He was caught in a snare and beheaded with the head spade. Who is going to marry the Bride and Groom now? if they do get married...

Kelly Seaver: She was hung in her home and discovered by Nikki Bolton. I knew after the bathroom scene she would be next. After all, she told Abby she saw John Wakefield. She clearly had a death wish. Was it suicide though? Doubt it.

Lucy Daramour: I predicted she would be one of the next to go. I wasn't at all surprised. She falls in a pitfall and was lit of fire and burned to death. Horrid! The episode title "crackle" obviously foreshadowed some type of fire.

Some clues I picked up from the show:

*My Mom pointed this one out to me. Did you see Abby's Mom open her eyes when hanging from the Tree of Woe? Weird!!!

*I didn't pick this up from the show but rather HarpersGlobe.com. It has been confirmed that Henry Dunn: The Groom was on scene when the murder and burning of the two responding deputies took place. He cared for the two deputies one of which later died (Aiken).

*The matchbox used to light the fire to kill Lucy is from The Candlewick Inn.

*Who is leaving candles on Wakefield's grave?

*The head spade missing from the Maritime Museum. We knew this was coming but I had no idea Trish used to work there...

*Henry's parents are dead. HarpersGlobe bloggers are reporting seeing the last name "Dunn" as one of Wakefield victims in the newspaper article.
NOTE: I am hearing reports that this article may have been printed to soon in the show and was reprinted later and shouldn't a credible source of info. Not sure yet though.

*JD Dunn is making himself look really guilty. The blood on his hands, the dead deer and the deer head in the Bride and Grooms suite. Neither of which could have been done by him though. I'm interested to see where the blood came from. Also, all that medication on his dresser....Wonder what that was all about.

*HarpersGlobe.com says that the message on the window of the truck in the woods was from the Killer. Interesting.

*The Killer has Uncle Marty's phone.

The biggest question I have. Who were all the Wakefield survivors besides Deputy Harkin? Also, The Dunn's and Wakefield are from Tacoma. Coincidence?

And who's "Tree of Woe" tattoo is this?

Here is a map of Harper's Island


Also, here is a synopsis of the second episode from HarpersGlobe.com.

Did you see anything I didn't? What was your take on this weeks episode?

Here is a preview for the Third Episode.
Ka-Blam will be the third episode of Harper's Island, and is scheduled to be broadcast on April 23, 2009.

The official CBS summary reads: "When a local girl’s death is ruled a suicide, Abby Mills challenges her father, the Sheriff Charlie Mills, to investigate what really happened. As the wedding approaches, Trish Wellington must come to a decision about Hunter Jennings."

April 20, 2009

Walgreen's Week of 4.12


I was able to get out a bit on Monday and do some shopping. Shopping in a fab looking neck brace is not nearly as fun but whatever. I still did pretty good it just took FOREVER! I didn't just stop at Walgreen's but I'll combine my other trip with this post.

WALGREEN'S

Transaction #1:

Chapstick Smimmer on Sale $1.99
*Received a $2.00 RR back
Final Price = FREE

Edge Shave Gel on Sale $2.99
*Used $1/1 coupon
*Receive $3 RR
Final Price = $1 Overage!

Reese's Cups reg. $.89 (filler so I could use RR from previous Scunci deal)

Paid $4.00 OOP and received a $2.00 RR and $3 RR

Transaction #2:

Scunci Hair Ties on Sale $1.99
*Receive $2.00 RR
Final Price = FREE

(2) Bags of Chex Mix on Sale $.99
*Used $1/1 coupon
Final Price = $.98

Paid $1 and some change OOP and received $2 RR

Transaction #3:

Chapstick Naturals on Sale $1.99
*Receive $2 RR
Final Price = FREE

8 bags of Chex Mix on Sale $.99
*Used 4 $1/2 coupons
Final Price = $3.92

(2) Bertolli Oven Bake Meals on Sale $5.99
(2) Breyer's Ice Cream pints on Sale BOGO $6.29
*Used (2) $2/1 IP's for Bertolli
*Used (2) $3/1 for Breyers
Final Price = $8.27

Paid with $2 & $3 RR and received $2 RR back

WALMART:

(20) Vitamin10 Waters on Sale $1.00
*Used 20 $1/1 coupons
Final Price = FREE

Kraft Salad Dressing reg. $1.58
*Used $1.50/1 coupon
Final Price - $.08

(2) V8 V Fusion Gogi Raspberry reg. $2.98
*Used $2/1 IP
Final Price = $.98 each

(2) Sierra Mist Ruby Splash 2 liters reg. $1 (found in dollar section)
*Used BOGO IP
Final Price = $1/2




April 19, 2009

Sierra Mist Coupon


Go here to print a BOGO Sierra Mist coupon. The coupons states Buy ANY One Sierra Mist and get a Sierra Ruby Splash. You can purchase either the Diet Regular, the Regular or the Ruby Splash and get another Ruby Splash for free. You can print two. These are priced at $1.00 at Walmart.

April 17, 2009

Passionate Blogger Award

I received this award from Life is Like Champagne a very long time ago. It was during my hiatus from blogging so I'm not sure I even deserved it. It an honor to receive an award from such an amazing Blogger. I stalk her Blog often! If you haven't been there already please do. I'm not sure how I ended up there but it's become one of my favorite blogs.

The Rules:
1. Put the logo in your blog
2. Write five things you are passionate about apart from blogging
3. Tag 5 people on your lists and let them know you tagged them.

Things I am passionate about:

*Family and Friends: No doubt this would be at the top of my list! First and foremost my husband and children who are my everything. My friends and family have made me who I am. I'm forever indebted to them.

*Work: I know, not the usual answer right? But I am very passionate about the work that I do. I love my jobs, I love working, I love having a purpose and meaning and being able to provide for my family. I have always had a very strong work ethic. My problem is I don't like working for anyone but myself. It's taken me years to accomplish this. My part time job still exists but I basically work for myself as I'm an IC. I see a paycheck weekly and my boss every few months.

*Couponing: This is a hobby for me. I didn't start cutting a using coupons because I had to, I did it because it was fun. Some people ride roller coasters or sky dive for kicks, I coupon. I can't tell you how often I get an adrenaline rush just from couponing and saving. I walk out of a store with bags full of stuff and a few bucks richer and it's the best feeling in the world.

*American Pit Bull Terriers: Anyone who knows me know that I am a biased dog owner and VERY passionate about this breed. They have huge piece of my heart.

*Politics: Wouldn't peg me for a politics junky would ya? Oh, I am. Big time.

Passionate Bloggers I pass this award on to:

I'm going to cheat again because we all know I'm a rule breaker. I'm not going to write down a list of 5 Blogger's. I'm going to tag you in your blog to share this award with you. If you have been tagged, you have been given this award. I have more than 5 that I would like to share it with.

Participation is not mandatory.



April 15, 2009

Tresemme 24 Hour Body Deal at Wags


The week of 4.26, Wags is having a Register Reward Deal on TRESemme. TRESemme Hair Care (3 - 32 ounce) is on Sale $7/2. Purchase 2 and receive a $2 RR at checkout good on your next purchase.

Go here to get a coupon for $1/1 on any TRESemme 24 Hour Body product coupon. Print 2. You can print more. I've printed quite a few. I'm not sure if there is even a print limit.

Use this scenario:
*Buy (2) 32 ounce TRESemme 24 Hour Body Shampoo and/or Conditioner. You can mix and match any 24 Hour Body Product but this is the best Value.
*Use both $1/1 coupons
*Receive $2 RR

Final Price = $3/2 or $1.50 each

I wanted to post it an advance before the coupon limit is reached.

Hershey's Bliss Deal at Target

Target has Hershey's Bliss reg. priced at $2.99. Use the $1/1 Hershey's Bliss coupon found here. Pair it with the $1/1 Target IP found here.

You can print the first coupon multiple times. I have printed 10 already... not sure what the limit is. There is never a limit on Target IP's either so this is a great chance to stock up.

Final Price = $.99 each!

Hot Coupon Roundup

Go here for a $2/1 V8 V-Fusion Coupon. These coupons are only valid on the Goji Rasberry or Passionfruit Tangerine. These are regularly priced at $2.98 at Walmart.

Go here to print a BOGO 20 ounce Sobe Lifewater (valid up to $1.59).

Go here to print a $1/2 Sun Chips coupon.

Go here to print a $2/1 Bertolli Oven Baked Meals coupon. You can pair this with the save $3 on any one Bertolli Meal and 1 Breyers Ice Cream coupon for an even sweeter deal!

Go here to save $1/1 All Small & Mighty. Pair this with the $1/1 Small & Mighty Target printable found here. These are $3.99 regularly priced at Target.

Go here to print $1/1 Tropicana Trop50 coupon. These are on rollback at Walmart for $2.00.

Go here to print a BOGO Purex (valued up to $7) coupon. Enter zip code 44514 because this coupon is regional.

Love Taco Bell? Want to have a Taco Bell Taco night at home? Go here to print off $5/1 Fiesta Family Meal Kit. Enter in zip code 68108 and it should be listed. These are priced at $14.99 at most stores. They feed a family of four.

Good News. Bad News.


Because I always like to start with the Good News first.

We received a call from our Mortgage Broker. Our house appraised a little over $130,000. We are right on target. I am in a little bit of shock. This house has no siding, no landscaping, unfinished tile, unfinished paint etc...I'm such a pessimist though. I'm just so happy to finally receive some good news! We are set to close on Friday.

I spoke with my Mom today and my Brother's checkup went well yesterday. They check his upper intestines (I'm sure that was fun) by having him swallow a camera...I guess that's what he did. Anyway, no ulcers. This may just boil down to IBS and his problems may just be because he went so long without treatment. Whew. I really hope this turns out to be the case.

I don't think I mentioned this but Josh received his settlement from the Insurance Company. The responsible party was insured by State Farm and honestly, I want to switch from Geico to State Farm. They were amazing through Josh's ordeal. They settled and paid out with in 3 weeks. They apologized, answered questions and returned phone calls within hours. They made this situation so much easier for Josh. They gave him Blue Book value (more than we even paid for the truck in the first place) + the cost of the DVD player and the bed cover. No questions asked. They treated him with respect and kindness and were quick to pay out after he expressed his need for a vehicle due to his job. They sent a mobile rep out to payout within days. We were able to purchase a newer vehicle with less miles with the money we were given. He decided he wanted his exact truck back but we were unable to find one he liked so he bought the SUV version. Lots of upgrades like satellite radio, high tech alarm system, 2 TV's/DVD/CD player, remote start etc...

I can only hope I see the money to get my car fixed :(

and on to the Bad News...

I went to the Doctor yesterday. I have a bad strain in the muscles in my neck. One of my muscles may be torn. I'll need a better check up with a different Doctor to be sure. I need a neck brace (and you know I look fabulous in it!), lots of pain meds, and physical therapy. I can't drive because I have limited rotation in my neck. No heavy lifting which means I can't pick up my kids. This part pisses me off the most. My kids are so used to jumping in my arms. It breaks my heart that they can't do that right now.

Also, I've called the responding officer 4 times in the last two days and he hasn't returned my call regarding this guys insurance or lack thereof. I can't even call my insurance company to advise them of my accident and I can't file my restraining order because I was never given the other drivers info. Name, address, the info on the vehicle etc...

Bummer huh?

April 14, 2009

My Weekend Deals

I managed to get some shopping in before the accident. Here were my deals.

Walgreen's

Colgrate Total Toothpaste reg. $3.49
*Used $1/1 printable
Paid $2.49 OOP and got $3.50 RR back
Final Price = $1.00 Overage

Chapstick Naturals on Sale $1.99
Paid $1.99 OOP and received a $2.00 RR
Final Price = FREE!

Transaction #2:

Colgrate Total Toothpaste reg. $3.49
*Used $1/1 printable
Paid $2.49 OOP and got $3.50 RR back
Final Price = $1.00 Overage!

Oust Surface and Air on Sale $2.99
*Used (4) $2/1 coupons
*Submit all 4 for April Easy Saver Rebate of $4
Final Price = FREE!

Garnier Nutrisse Hair Color on Sale $5.00
*Used (4) $2.00 coupons
*Submit for Garnier April Easy Saver Rebate $10 wyb $20 worth of Garnier
Paid $12.00 OOP and will receive $11.00 rebate ($10 + 10%)
Final Price = $1/4


For this trip I made $1.00 Overage! I love to get paid to shop!

Walmart:

Snuggle Creme Fabric Softener reg. $4.00
*Used $2.00 IP
Final Price = $2.00

5 J&J 2 ounce Body Care Lotions reg. $.97
*Used (5) $1/1 coupons
Final Price = $.15 Overage!

Glade Aerosol Spray reg $.89
*Used BOGO coupon
Final Price = $.89/2

4 Vitamin10 Water on rollback for $1.00
*Used (4) $1/1 coupons
Final Price - FREE!
~ I have 40 of the coupons and I could only find 4 of these at Walmart. The shelves were wiped CLEAN. I sure hope they restock before the q expires. Target was empty too.

Target:

All Small and Mighty Laundry Detergent reg. $3.99
*Used (2) $2/1 IP's
*Used (2) $1/1 Target IP's
Final Price = $1.98/2

Not Pictured but part of my Transaction

2 bags of Hershey's Bliss reg. $2.99
*Used (2) $1/1 IP's
*Used (2) $1/1 Target IP's
Final Price = $1.98/2

Total OOP spent at all stores = $5.71!

April 12, 2009

Apparently, bad things do come in 5

So, yesterday started off pretty normal. I ran some errands and when I was finished I headed to the mall to use my NY&Co. coupon and find some new tennis shoes. I'm heading down South Bound 270 and I get in the fast lane, blinker on, and all of a sudden someone starts furiously honking at me. I look up and see a car RIGHT behind me, riding my rear and flipping me off. I can't tell if I cut him off or he was going way to fast and didn't expect me to come into that lane, he wasn't there when I looked in my side mirror though. Anyhow, He wont stop honking so I give him the finger and get back in the other lane. He then gets back behind me and cuts another driver off to do so. They honk at him and he flips them off! He rides my butt until I can get over in between two cars so he cannot go in front of or behind me. He isn't done with me yet so he comes next to me and him and the passenger (which is later revealed as his girlfriend) are throwing up their fists and screaming at me. I just start laughing. I can't help it! I couldn't believe how crazy they were acting. I keep driving and he gets behind me again. I've had it at this point so I decide to exit onto West Bound 40 and get the heck away from the psycho. He then starts to exit too but gets right next to me, they roll down the window and start screaming again, threatening to beat me up. I can't stop laughing for some reason! I don't know why I thought the whole thing was so freaking funny. That doesn't last long though because he gets behind me again and exits with me, riding my butt the whole time. I'm getting freaked out at this point. This crazy ass has taken it to another highway. This has already lasted 4 miles at least. So, as we exit onto WB 40 we both see two police officers sitting with their lights on on the side of the highway. This causes him to back WAAAAY off and I am able to get away. I got so far ahead of him that he isn't even visible anymore.

I'm safe at this point. I drive 5 miles to Chesterfield Parkway with him out of my site. I figure he turned off. I pull up to the stop light at Olive and Clarkson and sit to wait my turn to go. I look in my rear view and what the heck do I see? It's him speeding up over the hill and up to the stoplight. Now things are scary and I am FREAKING out. He pulls up next to me and slams on his breaks. I pretend I don't see him. Just as the light turn green and the car ahead of me starts to go I change lanes and go to exit East Bound on Olive and this freaking psycho accelerates, jumps two lanes and runs right into the back of me!!!!!!! He hit me so hard that my sunglasses flew off, my soda came out of my cup holder, my CD player came out of the dashboard and my phone flew from my lap to under my seat.

I am LIVID at this point. I call the cops and they already know about the incident and have someone on the way. I get out of my car, march up to his window and tell him I am going to sue the crap out of him and tell he better have insurance. His car is a mess. It's leaking liquid and steaming. He is on the phone rambling about his Mom and how she is something something, I didn't even hear what he was saying. My adrenaline was rushing and I was ready to pull him and his loud mouth girlfriend out of the car and beat the living crap out of both of them.

He starts yelling at me and I see him fumbling with his door handle while on the phone and then two men come rushing down and block him from exiting him vehicle. I think they thought he was going to attack me.

The cops come to the scene and I'm standing in the parking lot of the gas station and a lady drives up and asks me if I am ok. I have no idea at this point because I can't think straight. She says her and 5 other people saw him run right into me. I ask her to stay and give a report and she says there were 3 witnesses who have already volunteered and she would stay if she thought she was needed. I'm crying and not sure what to do. The police are talking to the witnesses and one of the witnesses sees that I am crying and calls me over. I'm shaking, terrified and crying and this man walks up to me and says "I am so sorry that happened to you, I saw him maliciously run into you with his car" and at that very instant I felt so much better. I'm all alone and scared and to hear someone say exactly what happened and offer words of encouragment meant the world to me. The officer took the witness statement and then took mine. I told him everything and was completely and totally honest with him. He asked why I didn't call police and I told him I thought the incident was over miles ago and when I saw him at the light I was trying to exit to get to the gas station for help because I grew up in the area and I knew it was a police substation. I knew that I might not make it to the Police Dept.

Meanwhile, Josh is on his way to support me. I don't even think I can drive I'm so shaken up.

As officers show up on the scene there is a lot of talking and yelling with the man who hit me. I hear that he is going to jail for endangering my life. I can't calm down though.

To make matters worse, his Mom shoes up. She flies into the parking lot, almost hitting my door to my car. She parks, get out and thrusts her finger towards me while giving me the evil eye. She starts yelling at the cops and calling me a little bitch. I don't know what her lunatic son told her but she was mad. The cops told her to shut up or she was going to jail. I laughed and thought back to how he kept talking about his mom, like she was somebody. Apparently, she wasn't anybody important :)

While all this is going on I am assigned some "muscle" as I called him (and made him laugh). He was basically a body guard to make sure the three individuals did not harm me.

Josh arrives on the scene to get pictures before the other car is towed. As he is taking pictures the girlfriend, who already took 100 pictures of my car, took more just to piss me off. I had to resist the urge to say anything to her. How freaking dare she act like that?

To make matters worse this lunatic doesn't have valid insurance. The Mom is the registered owner of the vehicle and stated there was insurance but she hadn't put the new card in. The police officer said he wanted the card by Monday morning and if they tried to avoid him he would lock them both up.

To end the story, we were advised to leave before the other 3. They wanted to make sure they didn't follow us home. I'll be getting a temp. restraining order on the driver today because all of my info will be included in the report. He didn't go to jail but he was ticked for many things. Hopefully one of which was endangering me, if not, I'll also press charges. I'll find out today what he was ticketed for and decide if I need to press charges then.

We are hiring a lawyer if we find out she doesn't have valid insurance but we are hoping that she does. I'll sue her because she is the responsible owner and didn't provide valid insurance on her vehicle and him for what he did.

I have a doctors appointment today. I have whiplash and headaches and I need to get everything checked out. I couldn't sleep last night because my neck hurt so bad.

I still can't believe this happened.

Happy Easter!


Hope Everyone is Enjoying Their Sunday!

April 11, 2009

$1/1 Nivea Coupon HOT

Sign up on the Nivea Site and print (up to 25) $1/1 coupons. These will come in very handy for a Wags deal the week of 4.26! These coupons will go fast so get them while you can!

April 10, 2009

Harper's Island Episode One

Harper's Island Episode One "Whap"

After each Episode I'll share my thoughts on the show.

My thoughts and feelings are mixed but I'm definitely hooked. 12.7 Million viewers tuned in for the series premiere. 10 minutes into the first Episode someone was already dead but we only had one death from the Main Character List.

Who was Killed?

Uncle Marty: He was panning out to be one of my favorite characters so I was sad to see him go. So gruesomely I might add. What was with the gun and money? Will this come into play later?

Ben Wellington: At first I was not 100% convinced it was Cousin Ben, there was was a screen shot and zoom of the phone when Trish called him but the phone didn't light up or ring...possibly because he was underwater... Also, I had yet to see a picture of "Ben". Even though we get an up close shot of his face, I had nothing to compare it to. I am hearing that Harry Hamlin has confirmed it was indeed Ben who was mutilated under the boat.

Some clues I picked up from the show:
*The man watching Abby at the "Tree of Woe". It might have been her Father. I've been hearing reports the item in the hand may have been a shotgun or head spade. If it was a head spade this is very telling as Harbor Master Cullen was killed with a head spade and hung in the Tree of Woe. Also, head spades are primarily used for cutting up Whales. Interesting.

*The suba tank on the hotel luggage cart was a huge clue. Did it belong to whoever killed the first victim? Is the killer staying in the hotel?

*The mysterious phone Abby received that played the song "Ave Maria".

*We learned that Abby Mills found her Mother hanging from the "Tree of Woe" 7 years ago.

*The Ghost and the little Girl. The child, Madison, is creepy for sure. Trying to burn a snail and making all types of weird comments. The most telling is when she rips of the tag for the gift bag and the name on the tag was Ben's. She gives me the chills. Is the ghost Wakefield? Is it Abby's mother and is she talking to the little girl and posting newspaper articles in Abby's room? Was this a warning or just a reminder?

The episode is over and so many questions unanswered. What is Abby's issue with her Father in the one I hope will get cleared up next week.

Also, here is a synopsis of the first episode from HarpersGlobe.com.

I've been careful not to make any conclusions on who the Killer may be or even attempt at a guess this early in as to not cloud my view as this series progresses.

What did you think of the show? Loved it? Hated it? Not sure?

Friday Musings & Updates

The weekend is almost here! We have so much going on right now. I don't even know where to begin.

This Sunday is Easter and the kids are super excited. We have tons of eggs to dye and I need to get my butt in gear and get some baskets made. If the weather is nice we are going to take the kids to the Creve Coeur Lake Egg Hunt. Donations benefit Good Shephard School for Children. The Kids Hunt is at noon and the Adult Hunt is at 5. How will you be spending your Easter Weekend?

This funky weather is really messing with me. Nice weather one day and crappy the next. It's driving me up the wall. The first day of nice spring weather I mowed the lawn and cleaned debri out of the yard leftover from the Fall and Winter months. I power washed the driveway and did some weeding and then the rain came and set my plans back. I have so much to do so this rain needs to go away. I need to re-seed the yard so my lawn can look better than my neighbors . Yes, I'm one of those people who has to make sure her lawn is greener, more plush and lush than everyone elses and works tirelessly to accomplish that. I saw my neighbor had a lawn company truck out last month! I almost threw a fit. I knew it was too early but it got me thinking maybe it wasn't...maybe he knew something I didn't. I know I'm psycho, I need help.

My younger Brother is undergoing tons of tests right now. He has been sick for years and has gone without treatment. He recently moved, along with his Fiance and my niece, back home to Washington and since he has been home has visited the doctor at least a half a dozen times and even one trip to the emergency room. He has had every blood test and scan you can imagine and we still don't have an answer. We have heard everything from Colon Cancer to Chrohn's to IBS and ulcers. I'm so worried about him. He is 3 years younger than me and I'm very protective of him. We are hoping to know more by Tuesday when he goes back in for another test.

The appraisal was done Wednesday. It went better than expected. We were warned ahead of time that they would not be taking the fact that we had the siding ready to go on the house into consideration but they did! This is huge because it was a huge value deduction not to have that up. Now we are listed as having vinyl siding and are comperable to the other houses in our neighborhood. The appraiser wasn't here very long. He took a long list of all the updates and a few pictures and chatted a minute. Josh made a bold move and asked him if he thought we may be in the $130's range and he said absolutley. If we appraise out at $130,000 at minimum we would have $50,000 of equity in our home. 80% of which we can cash out to pay off all our personal debt. We are hoping to hear back from them today. My stomach will be in knots until we do.

I've had an itch to do something crazy with my hair. Every couple years I get this itch. I either want to go blonde or multi-colored or chop it all off. A few years ago I went Blonde, then Black and then chopped it off. I hated all three. I finally got my hair to grow out to the middle of my back. My newest itch is to go Burgundy. My hair already has a burgundy/red hue. It's subtle until you look at it in the sunshine. It won't be so far off from what I am not but I think it may be the change I have been itching for.

Have a Good Weekend!

New York & Company $15 off ANY Purchase

New York & Company has a fabulous coupon out right now. Save $15 off ANY purchase valid for April 10th - 12th. Also, if you shop April 10th you receive a FREE Charm Bracelet with any Apparel purchase. Their ComfortZone line is very affordable. This City Logo tank is priced at $16.95. They also have tons of yoga pants on sale. Make sure your purchase is $15 before tax or the coupon will not work. Happy Shopping.

Thank You Deal Seeking Mom for the heads up!

April 7, 2009

Harper's Island Premiere Tonight

Tonight is the long awaited Harper's Island Premiere on CBS. So, I thought I'd do a little post dedicated to it. Let's start off with a video.



I began to see commercials for this months ago and was instantly intrigued. I figured as time went on it would become more clear what this show is really about. I'm more confused than ever as time has passed. It seems as though this may be on purpose because as I did a little digging I have managed to find that this event will be exactly as it's says...A mystery...

Agatha Christie meets Wes Craven on prime time television. I'm a sucker for these kinds of things. The cast consists of tons of eye candy. Elaine Cassidy, Kate Cassidy, Christopher Gorham, Cameron Richardson and C.J. Thomason all star along side Jim Beaver, Richard Burgi and Harry Hamlin.

So far this is what I know:

HARPER'S ISLAND: A 13-episode murder mystery about a group of family and friends who travel to a secluded island for a destination wedding. They've come to laugh... to love... and, though they don't know it... to die. As the wedding festivities begin, friendships are tested and secrets exposed as a murderer claims victims, one by one, transforming the wedding week of fun and celebration into a terrifying struggle for survival. Abby Mills, whose mother was killed on the island by a homicidal maniac's rampage seven years ago, journeys home for the first time since the horrific event for the wedding of her best friend, Henry Dunn. Henry, the boy next door, is marrying the woman of his dreams, Trish Wellington, a beautiful and wealthy heiress. But as the wedding week begins, people start dying. Every episode, someone is killed. Wedding guests and island locals, every person is a suspect. No one is safe. No one can be trusted. By the end of the 13 episodes, all questions will be answered, the killer will be revealed and only a few will survive. 10 P.M. Tonight, CBS.

13 Weeks, 25 Suspects and 1 Killer. Here is a list of the MAJOR characters and some info on them.

The show is set on fictional Harper's Island located in Washington's Pudget Sound. I see my homeland becoming very popular in books (Twilight) and TV lately. This adds to my intrigue greatly!

As for the back story to this event, I'm not sure if it will be told in the first episode or throughout the story but you can do a little research yourself beforehand. It was a series of muders that happened 7 year prior. Here is the wiki article on it.

As if the mystery of the show wasn't enough, there is more. Harper'sGlobe.com. It explains itself as an online show and social network integrated with Harper's Island event. Please see the FAQ page located here, as it helps explain what this site is about.

Already this event is receiving mixed reviews. I'm hearing "Hated it", "Loved it", "A Killer New Series","Thrills in short supply", "A gruesomely good time" etc...I'll be watching though. Will you?



Brought to you by the Letter N

I saw this post on Trisha's Blog about the Alphabet Game. You are given a letter and have to come up with 10 of your favorite things that start with that letter. I thought it looked fun so I asked for a letter and she gave me "N". Thanks for being easy on me Trish ;)

1. Nieces - I was blessed with 3 beautiful nieces this past year. Nadia, Nevaeh and Triniti. 3 beautiful little girls with different personalities. Their sweet smiling face make my heart melt! Here is a picture of Nadi or also known as Naughty:

2. Naps - We all know why this is at the top of my list! I don't get enough of them but they are cherished.

3. Nail Polish - On my toes. I only wear it on my nails about a dozen times a year because I wear a clear coat daily. However, my toes are a different story. I change my color at least twice a week and I'm a freak for the dark colors.

4. New Shoes - What woman does not love getting new shoes? The excitement of taking them out of the box and wearing them out for the first time. Oh, I love it. I'd seriously consider selling my soul for these Christian Louboutin's. Just Kidding.

5. Non-Fat Vanilla Latte from Starbucks - The Cinnamon Dolce comes in second. Yes, the very believer of not paying enormous amounts of money for her coffee has entered the dark side. A couple months ago I was given a few more work hours on Tuesday and Thursday. I arrived early my first Tuesday and my work wasn't ready to be picked up so I wandered over to Starbucks. I hadn't been to Starbucks since December and I don't think I even remember what I got....So, I told the Barista to give me whatever she thought was best for someone on a diet with a need for a quick caffeine kick. She handed me a Skinny Vanilla Latte. Mmm...Heaven. Now I have made it a ritual to stop in every Tuesday and Thursday.

6. Novels - I love to read and have since I was young. Books have always been an escape for me. I like to curl up with my book at the end of the day and let myself drift off. I love my marathon reading sessions where I'll read an entire book in a day. I could spend hours in a book store just wandering around looking at books. The feeling when you purchase a new book in fabulous. The crisp clean pages and the glossy cover. Even the smell of a new book is wonderful.

7. Nature - I'm a bare feet, outdoors kind of girl. Growing up I rarely played inside. I remember making forts with my Brother, climbing trees and playing in the dirt. We went camping, on hikes, swam in lakes and rivers. We enjoyed the great outdoors to the fullest. The flowers, trees, scenic views and weather are all a love of mine.

8. NARS Makeup - My love of NARs started when I was given a Sephora Gift Card with no idea what to buy. I needed blush and found the perfect color, Dolce Vita. I've since fallen for their Lip Stain and Glosses and most recently the Bronzer. NAR's is my guilty pleasure that I rarely indulge in.

9. Night Sky - The dark you can't see through, the brilliant colors, the moon and the constellations. Here is a pic of Seattle at night. It almost looks unreal.

10. New Year - The end of one year and the beginning of the next. So many feelings come with a new year from the excitement of what the new year will bring to sadness that the previous year has ended. As each new year comes we reflect on the past year while we plan for the future. I celebrate each and every New Year because to me it symbolizes a completion of one year. Like, Hell yeah, we made it through it!

So, that's my list! By now this game has made it's rounds already but if it hasn't made it to you then feel free to ask for a letter. I'll be easy on you, I promise. No Z's or Q's ;)

An Amazing Giveaway!

There are thousands of giveaways going on right now but to me none compare to this. I am so freaking excited. Trisha at A Day in the Life of a Seelen is giving away one of 6 Seelen Photography Professional photos in an 8x10 or 10x14. Please go enter! Also, you can visit Trisha's Photography Blog here. Check out her most recent wedding sneak peak. The pictures are gorgeous. Then go ahead and harrass her about putting more up ;)

April 2, 2009

Target Diet Pepsi Deal


If you printed out your B2G1 Free Flavored Diet Pespi12 pack coupons to use at Walgreen's this week and like me have found that either Wags doesn't carry the flavored Diet Pepsi or wasn't stocked, use them at Target. It's a better deal anyway!

The 29th through the 4th Target has 12 pack Pepsi Products on Sale 5 for $15 with a FREE $5.00 Gift Card. To make this deal work you have to buy all Diet Products 2 of which have to be flavored. The flavors are Wild Cherry, Vanilla, Lime and Lemon.

Buy 6 12 packs for $3.00 each (sale price) = $18.00
*Receive $5.00 Gift Card = $13.00
*Use 2 B2G1 coupons (will take off $6.00) = $7.00

Final Price = 6/$7 or $1.17 a pack (or $.10 a can)

Bad Things Come in 3....or 5....or 10

I am starting to believe the old saying that "bad things come in three".

A few weeks ago week we had yet another Sewage Back up in our basement. We knew it was coming. We've had this backup twice since we moved in but a 75 foot snake is proving to not be enough. The massive trees in our yard surround the pipes and they are packed with roots. Another $100 to have someone come out and snake it. Then we have to wait on Maryland Heights to come rip my yard apart just in time for Summer. Fun. Not so bad by itself though, right?

Then on the night of the 11th my husband was involved in an accident. His first accident I might add. At about 8:00 pm he was traveling west bound in the far right lane on Olive. An elderly lady (84 to be exact) driving a van ran her solid green (left turn yield) light.. There was nothing he could do but slam on his breaks and brace himself. Had he veered left he would have hit her harder, had he veered right he would have jumped the sidewalk and into a gas station parking lot. Needless to say they hit. The air bags deployed and my husband had to crawl out of his window. Both vehicles are totaled. She swore up and down she had a green arrow. My husband said he vividly remembered bracing himself, slamming on the breaks and looking up at his light. Green! There was no doubt in his mind. Thankfully, there were 2 cars sitting behind the woman waiting for their turn to go and were able to back up Josh's story. They were both hurt but not severly. They were both very lucky!

And because this post is worthless without some pictures :) ...

Then this week Josh received a ticket for not displaying his license plate correctly in my car (I have it in the windshield) and no proof of insurance because he couldn't find my card before the officer could write the ticket. Jerk cop. Give him a freaking minute! 2 tickets. So Josh finds the card as the officer is driving away and then proceeds to take it up to the station and see if there was anything he could do, they were unbelievably rude to him. He just can't catch a break.

Now on to me. It never fails I always have to make matters worse. So, I admit freely I'm not the best driver when I'm by myself. When I'm by myself I get to listen to my Mommy music that no one else likes with the windows rolled down (because no one likes that either) and I hit up the fast lane and cruise! I was listening to some Adele and apparently cruising a little too fast because a cop clocked me going 74 in a 60 on 270. Shame on me! $60 ticket. Ouch.

Would the world like to throw anything else at as? One more maybe?

April 1, 2009

Crossing Our Fingers!


We are in the agonizing process of re-financing our home. Buying isn't new to us and selling isn't either but re-financing is a whole different game. Especially in this market. We made the decision about a couple months ago to re-fi instead of sell and it's been such a long process. Something we have never experienced before. So far not having lived in the home a year is the only thing holding us back. It's a requirement when your going stated income and Josh and I are both indipendent contractors and business owners. We just keep hearing "We need to see that you have lived in the home a year" and "We're sorry this is our only hurdle, come back in May. It's only a few months" blah blah blah. We'll we finally found someone who didn't require this and was willing to bring out interest rate down 5% below what it is now. The appraisal is set for Wednesday!! Closing the week after!

I'm crossing my fingers and hoping and praying that everything works out ok!