The Boyd Team

Dove Visibly Smooth Coupon

2009-05-08T21:07:00.002-05:00

The Visibly Smooth Line is a new deodorant that's just recently been released by Dove. It comes in Wild Rose and Nature fresh with a Pro-Epil Complex that reduces the look and feel of underarm hair over time. This product already has me swooning. I wore it today and love it. To make it even better it was free at K-Mart with the $2/1 printable. If you don't have a chance to swing by K-Mart, keep the coupon because chances are there will be another deal as it's a newer product.

Go here to print your coupon.

Kellogg's Coupons

2009-05-08T19:36:00.002-05:00

After reading on several blogs that the $1/1 Kellogg's coupons had recently been reset I started searching and couldn't find them anywhere. Thanks to Deal Seeking Mom these mysterious coupons have been found. She pointed out that they could be accessed through the Kellogg's website. Duh ;) I should have known that.

Go here to print your coupons. You can print 2 of each.

I've been using them at K-Mart this week for $.75 boxes of cereal. Frosted Mini-Wheats, Special K, Frosted Flakes and Raisin Bran Crunch are part of the 4/$11 deal.

Thank You Walgreen's....

2009-05-08T16:00:00.000-05:00

....for paying me to shop.

This was by far my most profitable Walgreen's week. I started off with about $10 in random RR's. I paid hardly any money OOP for each transaction (if anything at all) and most of the time it was just tax. Fillers aren't pictured.

(5) Bayer Meters on Sale for $14.99
*Used (5) Bayer coupons that took off $14.99 for each (done in separate transactions)
*Received $5 RR for each Meter
Final Cost = $25.00 MONEY MAKER!
Note: I didn't have to pay anything for tax so these were completely free for me. I then used these RR's to roll into all my other products.

(8) Scotch Tape on Sale $.99 with IVC
*Used $1.00
Final Price = FREE

(8) Ecotrin on Sale $2.00
*Received $2 RR for each
Final Price = FREE
Note: I rolled my ConAir and Chapstick RR's into these.

(10) Assorted Got2Be Products on Sale 2/$10
*Used (10) $2/1 IP's
*Received $5 RR for each 2 purchased
Final Price = $1/2 and $6.00 for all!!

(4) Nivea Body Washes on Sale $4.99
*Used (4) $1/1 IP's
Final Price = $4 Overage!

(2) Rembrandt on Sale $5.99
*Used $5.99 coupon on one making it free
Final Price = $6.00 Money Maker!

(2) TRESemme 24 Hour Body on Sale 2/$7
*Used (2) $1/1 IP's
*Received $2 RR
Final Price = $3/2

EcoBoard Emery Board reg. $1.00
*Used $1 RR
Final Price = FREE

I have over $60 in RR's left after all this and 5 more coupons left for Bayer. Some of my purchases aren't even pictured. My Rembrandt overage paid for my Got2be, my Nivea overage paid for the TRESemme etc...All in all I spent about $5 OOP on fillers and received far more back in RR's. All in all it was a fabulous freakin' week.

K-Mart, you have my heart

2009-05-08T13:00:00.000-05:00

Last year I hadn't stepped foot in a K-Mart in over a year...possibly more. Now, I puffy heart them. I made another trip there last night for some cheap cereal for my stockpile and found a few more things. Transaction went easy and cashier was more than nice.

(4) Kellogg's Strawberry Frosted Mini-Wheats Cereal on Sale 4/$11
*Used (4) $1/1 from VocalPoint Mailer that doubled
Final Price = $3.00

(2) Hartz Crunch n Clean Dog Treats on Sale $3.49
*Used (2) $2/1 IP that doubled
Final Price = FREE

(2) Hershey's Bliss on Sale 2/$6
*Used (2) $1/1 from 5.3 SS that doubled
Final Price = $1 each

(3) Veet Hair Removers on Clearance $4.49
*Used (3) $2/1 IP that doubled
Final Price = $1.47/3

John Frieda Root Awakening Shampoo and Conditioner reg. $6.49
*Used (2) $2/1 coupons
Final Price = $2.49 each
I'll blog more on why I got these later.

K-Mart, you have my heart but only on Super Doubles ;)

Harpers Island Episode Four

2009-05-08T12:15:00.000-05:00

Harper's Island Episode Four "Bang"

This episode veered more towards plot thickening than killing. Only one person was killed and more unanswered questions came into play. I'm still not anywhere near revealing my thoughts on who the killer may be...

Who was Killed?

Joel Booth: He was shot in the leg. The bullet hit a major artery and he bled out. Poor guy! It made it seem as though he shot himself but I am doubting this. His finger was not on the trigger when the gun went off and the light flashed. This scene left me wondering.....Obviously the previews are misleading because Joel is shown in a scene that hasn't aired yet.

Some clues I picked up from the show:

*Robin finally makes an appearance on Harper's Island. The scene was interesting and I was not expecting Robin to act the way she did.

*The fortune teller spoke of Trish's "Betrayer" and "Savior". Was she talking about Richard or is it something more?

I'd really love to know who broke the dishes, what the fortune teller saw when she had Abby's necklace, where the money came from and why no one has realized Lucy is missing.

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

Here is a preview for the Fifth Episode:

Thwack will be the fifth episode of Harper's Island, and is scheduled to be broadcast on May 9, 2009.

The official CBS summary reads: "A father/daughter bike ride in the woods leads to a startling revelation. Abby uncovers the Sheriff's secret obsession as Trish and Henry's wedding rehearsal takes an unexpected turn."

Summer Starbuck's Deal

2009-05-08T11:53:00.003-05:00

Now through June 29th Starbucks is offering their new Iced Coffee with Milk (16 ounce Grande) for $1.95.

Iced Coffee with Milk A delicious and refreshing blend of freshly brewed Starbucks® Terraza Blend served chilled and slightly sweetened on ice with a splash of 2% milk.

You can go here for more information.

Crabby Friday

2009-05-08T11:00:00.000-05:00

*I slept maybe 2 hours last night. I'm exhausted. I had a migraine all last night and couldn't fall asleep until 1 o'clock and then I woke up at 2 to find that Cowboy had gotten a hold of a bag of Chex Mix and was DESTROYING it. He had also managed to get through the block off to the kitchen and pull paper plates out of the trash and eat them. I had one hell of a mess to clean up. This dog just doesn't get it....Back to kenneling we go.

*If my neighbor keeps parking his Hummer on my grass because it wont fit in his driveway or correctly in the street, I'm going to have it towed by the most run down, janky tow company I can find. I'll give them an extra $20 just to give him crap. Stay the hell off my grass dude. It's not my problem you purchased a vehicle to large for a small suburban neighborhood.

*My accident has me totally freaked out. When I drive I'm scared of getting hit, when I'm at home I'm scared of that psycho. Driving is stressful and I've been coming home tense and irritable. My knuckles hurt from holding so tight on my steering wheel and my head hurts from all the stress. I can't listen to my music very loud because I feel it's a distraction. When I see an accident my stomachs starts to ache and screeching wheels and horns give me the chills. I can't wait for this fear to wear off and all of this stress to come to an end.

This weekend needs to be full of R&R or my crabbiness is going to carry into next week.

Gah!

Appreciate the Small Things....

2009-05-06T13:30:00.002-05:00

Meet the smallest member in our family, Kit. Or as DH calls him, DC. I'm sure you know what that stands for ::wink:: I may seem biased when it comes to my animals because I seem to talk quit a bit more about my dogs, possibly to the point I'm sure some of our friends and family don't even know we have a cat. We have only had him for a couple years and still I get a "Oh, I didn't know you had a cat" on occasion.

Kit started out as a temporary foster and turned into a forever cat when I just wouldn't give him back to his original owners. Long story but Kit was very different when he first came to us...then he is now.

I'm sure all pet owners says this but Kit isn't any normal cat. For starters, he about twice as big as a normal domestic house cat. He is very, very heavy too. I can barely hold him. He sleeps upside down and is obsessed with cardboard boxes. We have to keep one empty in the office just for him to lay in.

Every morning when my husbands alarm turns on, Kit gets up and walks all over him, purring and meowing until he wakes up. Kit has saved my sleepy husband numerous times when he is in such a deep sleep that he cannot hear his alarm because without fail when that it goes off, Kit starts that morning ritual of waking DH up. My husband is rarely late to work with Kit as a personal alarm clock

Kit "talks" and "listens". I know it sounds weird but that damn cat is so smart. He has learned to associate words (like treat, tuna, outside etc..) with actions just as the dogs have and reacts accordingly. He is amazing. He also has a very recognizable meow's when he wants food and when he wants to be let downstairs. They are very different from the normal meow and both are very unique. We have all learned them and if we ignore them, he starts trouble! He will race through the house, jump up on the kitchen table or counters, run through our legs and scratch at the doorknob until someone pays attention to his needs. His behavior is hard to deny. The kids call him "Psycho Kitty" when he acts like this.

Kit is the leader among the animals in our house. He is also the disciplinarian. He swats the dogs when they counter surf, he swats them when they bark, he swats them when they steal his food but nothing compares to what he does when I catch them getting in trouble. He beats the living crap out of them! I cannot discipline the dogs around Kit or he lashes out at them. If I raise my voice at them or say "NO" to them he runs from wherever he is napping, puts back his ears, hisses and starts letting claws fly. I'll admit it, I laugh hysterically when Kit does this. I seriously cannot help it. There is nothing funnier than watching a cat make a 50 lb dog look like a wuss. These poor dogs bow down to Kit.

This furball has a huge piece of my heart and is an amazing addition to our family. I think Kit is grateful for the life we have provided him and lets us know each and every day. We really don't know what our lives would be without him.

K-Mart Double Deals 5.3

2009-05-03T15:02:00.000-05:00

This K-Mart promotion was clearly hindered by the ad misprint. I arrived at 7:45 a.m. to find the parking lot empty. By the time 8:00 rolled around there were 4 of us that strolled in. I shopped in silence and got everything I needed. Not everything I wanted though. The stock had not been replenished or everything had been pulled. I checked the night before and the Hershey's Bliss was stocked well but when I returned this morning it was mysteriously gone...I guess the rumors were true about managers pulling items for the promotion. Also, almost everything I had coupons for and that I planned on getting had received a price raise. Ugh, whatever.

All in all things went well though. Here is what I got in 2 transactions.

Transaction #1:

(4) Kellogg's Cereal on Sale 4/$11
*Used $1/1 IP's found here
Final Price = $.75 each!

(2) Chinet Plates $3.49
*Used $2/1 from 5.3 SS
Final Price = FREE!

(2) Listerine Total Care $4.59
*Used $2/1 IP found here
Final Price = $.59 each!

(2) BIC Pens 8 pack $1.59
*Used $1/1 IP found here
Final Price = FREE!

Venus Tropical Razors on Sale $6.00
*Used $2/1 coupon from 5.3 RP
Final Price = $2.00!

Peter Pan Peanut Butter $2.49
*Used $1/1 from 5.3 SS
Final Price = $.49 each!

(2) Sani-Hands Kids Wipes $2.49
*Used $1/1 IP found here
Final Price = $.49 each!

(2) Visine on Sale on Sale 2/$5
*Used $2/1 IP found here
Final Price = FREE!

(3) Playtex Handsaver Gloves $1.69
*Used $1/1 from 5.3 SS
Final Price = FREE!

My total OOP was $8.62

Transaction #2:

The Goodlife Recipe Cat Food $4.99
*Used $2/1 IP found here
Final Price = $.99 a bag

Playtex Handsaver Gloves $1.69
*Used $1/1 from 5.3 SS
Final Price = FREE!

Kraft BBQ Sauce on Sale 5/$5
*Used $.75/1 coupon from 5.3 SS
Final Price = FREE

(3) Peter Pan Peanut Butter $2.49
*Used $1/1 from 5.3 SS
Final Price = $.49 each!

(3) Chinet Plates $3.49
*Used $2/1 from 5.3 SS
Final Price = FREE!

I don't know how in the heck my total became what it was but I only paid $.15 OOP for this transaction. The cashier rang up each set of identical items and then scanned the coupon. I wasn't paying much attention but it seemed as though the computer was giving overage...It must of because in the end I was in the negative $1.53. I gave $1.00 to March of Dimes and my total came to $.15!

I spoke with a manager about the next doubles and she said there was word it would be June 7th. If this is so...I'll be ready ;)

K-Mart: Coupon Matchups

2009-05-02T18:57:00.000-05:00

K-Mart Deals. Remember, they are only doubling up to $2 this time with a 25 coupon limit and a limit of 4 identical coupons.

Natures Source Cleaner $2.79
*Use $1/1 from recent insert or IP found here
Final Price = $.79

Yesterday's New Cat Litter $6.99
*Use $2/1 IP found here
Final Price = $2.99

Soft Scrub Scrubby Pads
*Use $1/1 IP found here
Final Price =

Pledge Multi-Surface $2.19 - $2.79
*Use $2/1 IP or $1/1 from various sources
Final Price = $.79 - FREE

Goodlife Cat Treats $2.00
*Use $1/1 IP found here
Final Price = FREE

All Small & Mighty $4.79
*Use $2/1 IP (if you got it) or $1/1 IP found here
Final Price = $.79 - $2.79

Trail Mix Crunch Cereal $3.49
*Use $1/1 from Insert or $2/1 IP (if you got it)
Final Price = $1.49 - FREE

Whiskas Purrfectly Multi-pack $5.12
*Used $2/1 IP found here
Final Price = $1.12

Oust Air & Surface $3.99
*Use $2/1 insert coupon
Final Price = FREE

Dry Idea Roll-On $3.99
*Use $2/1 IP found here
Final Price = FREE

Halls Sugar Free Cough Drops $1.99
*Use $1/1 from recent insert
Final Price =

Febreze Air Effects $2.99
*Use $1/1 from 5.3 P&G
Final Price = $.99

Kotex Liners $1.29
*Use $1/1 IP found here
Final Price = FREE

Renuzit Spray $1.79
*Use $1/1 from insert
Final Price = FREE

Marcal Small Steps Bath Tissue or Paper Towels $2.99
*Use $1/1 from 5.3 SS
Final Price = $.99

Visine $4.99
*Use $2/1 coupon found here
Final Price = $.99

Aveeno Lotion $3.19
*Use $2/1 IP found here
Final Price = FREE
Note: This is the small bottle. Coupon excludes trial but the lotion is bigger than a normal trial and the coupon didn't beep...

I'll update as I find more :) Good Luck Shopping!

Walgreen's Week of 5.3

2009-05-02T12:00:00.000-05:00

I don't see a ton of great deals. It's a little anti-climactic after this week insane RR deals.

Pert Plus Men on Sale $5/2
*Use (2) $1.50/1 from 5.3 SS
*Receive $2 RR
Final Price = FREE
Note: You can roll your $2 Ecotrin RR into this with a small filler.

Right Guard Deodorant on Sale $2.99
*Use $1/1 from 4.19 insert or $.75/1 from K-Mart Savings Book
*Receive $2 RR
Final Price = $.24 - FREE
Note: You can roll your $2 Ecotrin RR into this with a small filler.

Colgate Sensitive Toothpaste $4.49
*Use $1/1 coupon found here
*Receive $4.50 RR
Final Price = $1 Money Maker!

Bed Head Hair Straightener on Sale $39.99
*Receive $10RR
Final Price = $29.99
This might be how I use some of my RR's. Add a few small fillers and use up some RR's and get $10 in RR's back.

That's all I see so far. If anything else comes up I'll ad it in.

K-Mart Doubles Event

2009-05-01T08:49:00.003-05:00

The new ad's are up on K-Mart.com! Find your weekly ad to see if your store is participating. Mine is yet again taking part in this promotion. Yeah!

I am hearing tons of talk about the ad being a misprint. I am hearing if your store is doubling then they are doing so up to $2.00. Please call or write an email to your local K-Mart to check this first before planning your trip. I have confirmed this at my location as of today they say they are doubling up to $2.

Unfortunately, I didn't know about it until today so I'm lagging behind in getting coupons. I will be making a trip today to check prices and post deals. I'll be concentrating on match-ups from the two most recent Sunday Papers and available printables.

Harpers Island Episode Three

2009-04-29T20:17:00.000-05:00

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".

Walgreen's Trippin'

2009-04-28T11:30:00.000-05:00

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!

I battled K-Mart and I won

2009-04-25T09:24:00.006-05:00

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!

Things are looking up!

2009-04-23T09:48:00.003-05:00

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

2009-04-23T08:51:00.004-05:00

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.

Starbuck's Coupon

2009-04-22T21:13:00.002-05:00

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

2009-04-22T13:25:00.002-05:00

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!

2009-04-22T08:01:00.002-05:00

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.

Harper's Island Episode Two

2009-04-21T12:01:00.001-05:00

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."

Walgreen's Week of 4.12

2009-04-20T10:02:00.000-05:00

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

Sierra Mist Coupon

2009-04-19T17:15:00.000-05:00

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.

Passionate Blogger Award

2009-04-17T09:21:00.001-05:00

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.

Tresemme 24 Hour Body Deal at Wags

2009-04-15T18:45:00.002-05:00

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

2009-04-15T18:21:00.002-05:00

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

2009-04-15T17:31:00.003-05:00

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.

2009-04-15T11:28:00.004-05:00

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?

My Weekend Deals

2009-04-14T21:19:00.006-05:00

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!

Apparently, bad things do come in 5

2009-04-12T22:35:00.001-05:00

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!

2009-04-12T11:23:00.001-05:00

Hope Everyone is Enjoying Their Sunday!

$1/1 Nivea Coupon HOT

2009-04-11T00:26:00.002-05:00

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!

Harper's Island Episode One

2009-04-10T16:15:00.007-05:00

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

2009-04-10T11:05:00.007-05:00

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

2009-04-10T08:43:00.002-05:00

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!

Harper's Island Premiere Tonight

2009-04-07T13:15:00.000-05:00

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

2009-04-07T10:14:00.000-05:00

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!

2009-04-07T09:13:00.002-05:00

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 ;)

Target Diet Pepsi Deal

2009-04-02T12:02:00.002-05:00

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

2009-04-02T12:00:00.003-05:00

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?

Crossing Our Fingers!

2009-04-01T09:36:00.002-05:00

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!

Back in the Game

2009-03-29T13:47:00.013-05:00

After the incident with the last Garnier deal I actually stopped couponing. I let lots of coupons expire and didn't walk into a Walgreen's in almost a month. It took me a long time to get back in the game and I'm very glad I did. I managed to get back in at the right time too. Just in time for the next Garnier and Glade deals. I have accumulated so much stuff the last few weeks I can't even fit it all on my kitchen table let alone the frame of my camera. So I fit in what I could but I'll add every item from every deal in my description. Lots of these products gave overage which helped me purchase other products.

Walgreen's

20 Garnier Shampoo, Conditioner and Styling Products on Sale $2.99

*Used 20 $1/1 coupons
*Used $2/1 ESQ

Final Price = FREE

20 Glade Sense & Sprays on sale $7.99

*Used 20 $4/1 coupons

*Used 20 $4/1 ESQ's

Final Price = FREE

4 Glade Soy Candles reg $5.99

*Used 4 $4/1 IP's

*Used 4 $2/1 ESQ's from April Booklet

Final Price = FREE

20 Soy Joy Bars on Sale $1/2
*Used $3/10 coupon
Final Price = $2/20

9 packs of Extra & Orbit Gum

*Used $.99/3 ESQ

Final Price =$2.97
Note: I used these as fillers to use my multiple Garnier and Glade coupons.

2 Cashmere Softsoap Bodywashes on Sale $3.99

*Used $1/1 from All You

Final Price = $2.99 for 2

Plus I have another RR for a free SoftSoap that I'll roll and roll and roll!

2 Cherry Cokes + 2 Hershey's Candy Bars

*Used BOGO coupon

*Received free candy bar with each Coke (promotion)

Final Price = $1.39 for 2 Cokes and 2 Candy Bars

1 100% Naturals Chapstick on Sale $1.99

*Received $2.00 RR

Final Price = FREE after RR

Target

1 Nature's Source Cleaner on Sale for $2.89

*Used $1/1 IP

*Used $1/1 Target Printable

Final Price = $.89

4 184 ct. packages of Huggies Gentle Care Wipes on Sale $5.49

*Used 4 $5/1 IP's
Final Price = $1.96/4

2 Pledge Aerosols on Sale $3.25
*Used $3/1 IP
Final Price = $.50/2

Walmart

10 4 lb. bags of Iam's Smart Puppy on Sale $10/2 but mine rang up $4.50!!!
*Used 10 $5/1 coupon
Final Price = $5.00 PROFIT!

1 Suave Lotion reg. $2.88
*Used Free coupon from Suave Promotion
Final Price = $.12 Overage because cashier didn't adjust!

10 Buddies Soaps reg. $.97 each
*Used Multiple $1/1, $2/2 and $3/3 IP's
Final Price = $.30 Overage!

1 Xtra Laundry Detergent reg. $2.88
Final Price = $2.88

1 Snuggle Creme Softener reg. $4.00
*Used $2/1 IP
Final Price = $2.00

16 Johnson & Johnson Body Care Lotions reg. $.97

*Used 16 $1/1 coupons
Final Price = $.48 Overage!

and I'm off to do a little more shopping!

Coupon Sources

2009-03-29T08:15:00.000-05:00

I often get asked where I get all my coupons. I also see this question being asked on message boards frequently. I thought it might be a great idea to share my coupon sources with my readers. These days with papers going out of business and inserts slimming down. Even though inserts are a coupon users primary source, thankfully we are not limited to them.

I always browse my local ads in advance. Lots of Money Saving Forums (more on that later) will release ads early to help you prepare in advance for sales and then I collect or purchase coupons accordingly. So where do I get mine? Just about everywhere!

* Newspaper Inserts: P&G, Valassis and RedPlum. Because inserts differ regionally you can see what may be in your inserts at least a week in advance but you usually never know for sure until you get your paper on Sunday.

* Ebay: This is my primary source for buying in bulk. Just type in the coupon you are looking for and your bound to find dozens of Sellers with this coupon available. Shipping costs vary (sometimes they are free) and you can find lots of 1-100. I've purchased hundreds of coupons via Ebay without a problem and highly recommend it.

* TheCouponClippers.com: This is not only a source for coupons but a insert pre-view source, a place to find local store sales and it even has it's very own forum. I'm in the process of ordering my first set of coupons from them. I was recommended to them by a forum member recently. Please visit their About Us page. They are an amazing team and I can't wait to complete my first order with them!

* Taylortownpreview.com: This is an amazing website. You can preview the upcoming inserts AND order coupons. I have never went this route but I use this website a lot to preview inserts and plan sales. The only downside is not all coupons from all inserts are available to purchase. Taylortown also has a Master List of all un-expired coupons that come in handy when planning deals.

* Coupons.com: My primary source for printable coupons. Just Register, download their Coupon Printer and start saving! Coupons are added frequently so make sure to always check for updates. Maximum prints is 2 per offer, per computer.

* RedPlum.com: A Printable only coupons source. The downside is they have almost the same coupons as Coupons.com and If you print something from Coupons.com and try and print here it's a no go. No double printing. Bummer. Don't count it out though and check regularly for new coupons.

* Bricks or CouponsInc.com: Bricks is a coupon printing service that manufacturers use. Bricks can be a pain and to be honest I am still not 100% sure how this website works. When you print coupons from Glade.com or other manufacturer websites it's seems as though Bricks supports them. You can go to the main page and directly link to manf. websites for coupons. Users often have trouble printing from Bricks using certain browsers though. I have to change part of each address to correctly print my coupons and I use Firefox.

* Forum Trades and Auctions: I'm still very new to this but it's a great way to get coupons you want and get rid of those you will not use. Hot Coupon World and A Full Cup both have trade sections where you can sell, trade, auction off and bid on coupons.

How do you get your coupons?

Physician's Formula Deal at Walgreen's

2009-03-28T16:59:00.003-05:00

On the 29th the New April Easy Saver Catalog will be released. Inside is a Physician's Formula offer for a $10 rebate when you buy $10 worth of products from their Organic line. After some price checking it seems as though the mascara is going to be the best bet. Their bronzer, powder, blushes and veils are priced anywhere from $12.99 -$14.99 but my local Walgreen's has their Organic Wear Mascara priced at $9.99. Use the $1/1 coupon from the 2/22 Smart Source and submit for a $10 rebate + plus 10% on your card!

To make this deal sweeter grab a package with a hot pink peelie on it. The peelie is a "Try Me Free" rebate offer!

Hot Coupons!

2009-03-28T14:34:00.006-05:00

$2.00 Snuggle Creme Coupon ~ These are priced at $4.00 at Walmart and Target making them $2.00 each with coupon

Buy 2 Get One Diet Pepsi Coupon ~ Can be used this week at Walgreen's for the 6/$9 Deal

$1/1 Johnson & Johnson Buddies Printable

$2/2 Johnson & Johnson Buddies Printable

$2/2 Johnson & Johnson Shampoo, Conditioner and Buddies Printable ~ Buddies are regularly priced at $.97 and Walmart and Target making them Free (or $.03 overage if your Target and Walmart don't adjust them down)

$1/1 Cottonelle Coupon ~ Create yor own Pledge and print! Highest Value Cottonelle Coupon available

$2/1 Kashi TLC Soft Baked Bars Printable ~ Usually on sale at Target for $2.75 making them only $.75 a box!

$1/1 Johnson & Johnson's Body Care Product Printable ~ The 2 oz. size (not the trial) is carried by Walmart for $.97 (found in the adult lotion and body care section) and Walgreen's for $.99.

$5.00 any Brita System Printable ~ Register and Print! I recently bought my Brita Slim Pitcher at Walmart for $2.97 when I used this $5.00 off coupon!

FREE Diet Dr. Pepper Coupon ~ You can choose a 2 liter or 20 ounce. This coupon will be mailed to you.

$3.50 Purina Product Printable ~ Fill out the form and register for your coupon. Use it at Walmart for FREE Purina Kit & Kaboodle Cat food reg. priced at $3.47 or any Purina dog food.

You can print off 2 of each (with the acception of the Dr. Pepper). After printing the first coupon hit your back button and print again!

Enjoy!

NEW $2 Glade Fragrance Collection Coupon

2009-03-28T13:18:00.002-05:00

Shortly after I posted the Glade Fragrance Collection Soy Candle deal and the $4/1 coupon link the print limit was reached. They have released a new $2/1 coupon. Get yours before they are gone.

Glade Fragrance Collection Coupon

Nature's Source Deal at Target

2009-03-28T10:40:00.003-05:00

Target has Nature's Source Cleaner regularly priced around $3.00.
*Use $1/1 Target Printable
*Use $1/1 Nature's Source Printable

Final Price = Around $1

Nature's Source is a plant based and bio-degradable cleaners. Well worth the $1!!! I'll be purchasing tons of these!

Walgreen's Deals Week of 3/29

2009-03-28T10:14:00.002-05:00

Chapstick True Shimmer or 100% Naturals on Sale for $1.99
*Receive $1.99 in Register Rewards
Final Price = FREE

Diet Pepsi 12 pks. on Sale 4/$11
Buy 6 - 12 packs
*Use B2G1 Printable
*Receive $3 in Register Rewards
Final Price = 6/$9
This deal will only work with Diet Pepsi Regular and Flavored. Two of the packs MUST be flavored because the coupon says Buy 2 Diet Get One Flavored.

Soy Joy Bars on Sale $2/1
Buy 10
*Use $3/10 from 2/22 SS
Final Price = $2/10 or $.20 each

Glade Soy Candles reg. price $5.99
*Use $4/1 printable
*Use $2/1 April Easy Saver coupon on page 21
Final Price - FREE

Reynolds Foil on Sale $.89
*Use $1/1 from 2/8 SS
*Use $.89 In Ad Coupon on page 3
Final Price = $.11 Overage

SoftSoap Body Wash
*Use $1/1 from All You Mag
*Receive $3.99 Register Reward for a free SoftSoap
Final Price = Varies!
This may roll and roll and roll. Making you the owner of dozens if not hundreds of washes. This may not roll making it $3/2 or $1.50 each.

Equal 100 ct. on Sale $5/2
*Use 2 $2.50 from 1/4 SS
Final Price = FREE

Skintimate Shave Gel on Sale $2.99
*Receive and $2.99 Register Reward
Final Price - FREE
Note: Still working out exact details on this deal. Will update.

Cottonelle 4 packs on Sale $5/2
*Use 2 $1/1 Printables from Cottonelle (create your own pledge to print coupons)
Final Price = $3/2

Coke 20 ounce.
Buy 2 Cokes and 2 participating Hershey's Candy Bars
*Use BOGO printable from Coke Rewards
*Get 2 Candy Bars free with Coke purchases
Final Price = YMMV
2 Cokes and 2 Candy Bars for the price of a coke (whatever your 20 ounce Coke store price is)
This is YMMV. You may only be able to get 1 Candy Bar because your techinically paying for only 1 Coke.

Don't have the BOGO coupon? Here is how to get it. You have to go to My Coke Rewards and create an account. Then if you enter the code 100869373819 you will be able to print 1 coupon for B1G1 Free 20oz Coke at Walgreen's!

What deals will you be taking advantage of this week at Wags?

My Favorite Money Saving Forums and Blogs

2009-03-21T13:37:00.003-05:00

There is absolutely no way I would be able to save as much as I have without the help of some amazing sites and blogs. I use them for hot deal alerts, money saving tips, freebie alerts and more. These sites have taught me how to utilize coupons and how to save the most at my local stores. I've learned about stockpiling, doubling coupons, how to make the most out of Walgreen's etc...

Here are my favorites. If you haven't been to them it's a must you check them out! I hope these sites help you as much as they have helped me!

HotCouponWorld.com: This is my primary forum. I visit daily for ad previews and deal alerts. I credit this forum from teaching me the Wags ropes and keeping my up to date on all the most fabulous deals.
AFullCup.com: I just joined AFC but I'm already loving it. They just launched their new layout and it's amazing!
Money Saving Mom
Penny Pinching Diva
Common Sense with Money
From Wags to Riches
Keeping the Kingdom First
The Domestic Diva
The "Cents"ible Sawyer
Deal Seeking Mom
I Heart Wags
Coupon Cravings
My Precious Pennies
Be Cents Able
Swag Grabber
Bargain Briana
Thrifty & Chic Mom
The Thrifty Mama

What sites and blogs do you use?

FREE Glade Fragrance Collection Soy Candles at Walgreen's

2009-03-20T22:52:00.004-05:00

Glade has a fabulous new coupon out for $4.00 off any one Candle or Reed Diffuser from The NEW Fragrance Collection! First, go here to print your coupons. You can print two just hit the back button after the first one prints. Then hold on to them until the 29th when Walgreen's releases their April Easy Saver book where you can find a $2/1 coupon for the Soy Candle. These candles are regularly priced at $5.99 so you can get yours free with both coupons.

The Soy Candles come in McIntosh Apple, Earthly Awakening and Orange Vanilla.
The Reed Diffusers comes in Currants & Acai, Sheer White Cotton and Lotus Bamboo.

Make sure to print your coupons soon because these kind of coupons go fast!

Thank You to Penny Pinching Diva for the info on this amazing deal!

Updated to add: This is a YMMV deal. Some Walgreen's shoppers are reporting different prices on the candles. As for the Reed Diffusers. There is a $3/1 coupon in the Easy Saver right above the $2 coupon and my local Walgreen's has them price anywhere from $8.99-$9.99. A good deal for diffusers but not free. I'm guessing if we hang on and wait the diffusers will come on sale.

Loved your new Glade Sense & Spray? Want one free?

2009-03-18T15:29:00.003-05:00

I'm sure most of you got your Glade Sense & Spray at Walgreen's the last few weeks while they have had them free, right? Good. Well email P&G here and tell them how much you liked their product and get a coupon for one FREE Glade Sense & Spray Starter Kit (up to $10).

I wrote them and complimented them on my Sense & Spray and It took less than a week for my coupon book to show up in my mailbox!

This are the coupons I received:
* FREE Glade Sense & Spray Starter Kit (up to $10)
* Save $.55 on ANY Windex Multi-Surface Cleaner
*Save $1.00 on ANY Scrubbing Bubbles Toilet Cleaning Gel
* Save $1.00 on Scrubbing Bubbles Mega Shower Foamer
* Save $1.00 on Scrubbing Bubbles Action Scrubber Starter Kit
* Save $1.00 on ANY Pledge Furniture Care Product
* Save $1.00 on Ziploc Brand Bags Vacuum Starter Kit
* Save $1.00 on ANY Glade Fabric & Air Odor Eliminator
* Save $1.00 on ANY Glade Scented Oil Candles Holder
* Save $1.00 on ANY 7 ounce Edge, Eclipse, Vault or Energy Shaving Gel

All Coupons Expire August of 2009

Old Navy Weekly can kiss it! At least for this week anyway

2009-03-13T11:25:00.007-05:00

A admit it. I'm one of the many (hundreds of thousands) of people who couldn't resist Old Navy Weekly's enticing deals. I am also now one of the many p*ssed of people who spent countless hours on this website only to not come out with the coupon I wanted in hand.

If you haven't heard Old Navy Weekly is a micro site that each week releases thousands of unbelievable coupons and amoung them happens to be a $75 off a $100 purchase coupon!

Here is the list of coupons you can generate:
5% (unlimited)
10% (unlimited)
20% (10,000 unique codes)
$10 off $100 (5000 unique codes)
$50 off $100 (3500 unique codes)
$75 off $100 (1000 unique codes)

These coupons are found by "hunting" which means going crazy and clicking on anything possible until a coupon comes up. They are hidden all over the main page of ONW and in the SuperModelquins Video you can play located at the left bottom corner. Each coupon is a one use coupon with a special barcode to be used in store only.

This site resets itself and adds new coupons each Thursday. Last week it was around 7 Central with no official word of when it may be this week. I'd been hearing a buzz anywhere from 12:01 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. but no one was for sure. At 11:00 p.m. on Wednesday night I started my quest to enter the site. It hadn't yet been updated and at about 12:10 a.m. I went to bed. When I woke up the site was still the same as last week and hadn't been reset. When I left for work it was still the same. As I am pulling out of the driveway I call my Mom and ask her to watch the site. She logs on and the screen that notifies you that they are hiding coupons came up! I was so close to calling off work. Thankfully, I made it home in time to log on before the site reset itself. I waited almost 2 hours and at 7:35 on the dot I refreshed and the site came up. I started hunting. I found the $50/$100 immediately in the apple in the girls hand. I want the $75 though! I started the video and when the ring scene came up I clicked on the ring and POW! There it was $75 OFF!! I grabbed it and right as it started generating the coupon it kicked me off the entire site! What?!?!? %#*&@*#^*#! I was peeved! I didn't even have time to hit Prt-Scr to get a coupon for verification that I got the $75.

Long story (and a lot of cursing) short. I waited for 3 1/2 hours to get back in, hitting refresh every 15 minutes or so. Finally when I did get back in and grabbed the $50/$100 and a $5/$25. By then the $75's were gone.

This is exactly what happened last week. Too many users on a site that couldn't handle it.

This week the Members of certain forums have been massively posting/blogging and it's safe to say most are pretty upset about how ON has handled this and how easily the site went down when they had to have anticipated that amount of people logging on.

ON says they are honoring those who were lucky enough to get a Print Screen shot of whatever coupon they won. We'll see though. Some Members are still waiting on their promised coupon from last week.

Where are all the coupons hidden?

Here is the List:
$75 off $100 (GONE) with purchase of a dress - Movie: ring, man's broken finger/hand, or dress at the end
$50 off $100 (GONE) with purchase of a dress - Top Right: peach in woman's hand
$5 off $25 when it's raining outside - Bottom Right: dog
$5 off $25 when it's raining outside - "*trend spotter" banner in upper right
$5 off $25 when it's sunny outside - Top Left: bird flying in background
$5 off $25 when it's sunny outside - Trees right of Kelly's dress
10% off purchase - Bottom Middle Picture: girl in blue sweater
10% off with purchase of a floral dress - "Kelly's" floral dress
$7 off with purchase of a women's and a girl's dress - Bottom Right: little snail crawling under girl and dog
$5 off with purchase of a women's dress and a girl's dress - Bottom Right: girl wearing dress

If you would still like a lower amount coupon the site is still up. I recommend going and checking it out and even printing off a coupon to get the hang of how things go before you try next week. If there is a next week anyway. I'm trying to find this out and will update when I do.

Until then I think the general consensus is Old Navy sucks.

No Longer MIA

2009-03-13T09:40:00.003-05:00

I can't even bring myself to check on how long it's been since I last posted. It feels like it's been months and it probably has. I miss blogging but home life has had me far to busy to even think about posting.

I put my flabby butt on the fit train and I'm hating it. I miss being able to eat whatever I want and I'm grouchy because of it. I'm about to throw down the towel and say "Bring it on Fat"!

We are on a countdown to the completion and refinance our house. We got so used to living with something missing here and something needing done there. A tile cracked and needing replaced here and a touch up spot needing paint there and we didn't realize how much needed to be done. It's a little overwhelming when you don't have enough time in the day to dedicate to things that need to be done.

We started an Ebay business a few months ago. It started with Josh deciding it was time for our yearly purge. Every year we sell Hockey Cards, Electronics, Books, Wedding stuff etc..All things laying in boxes and cluttering up the basement. Then we decided to clean out our overcrowded DVD stand and sell the DVD's we never watch and they sold and sold well. So we looked into buying in bulk and selling and that week our first 200 DVD's came, they all sold and we got to thinking this might be a better idea then we thought. We have grown 50% each month since then. We ship anywhere from 50-70 DVD's a day and list just as many. It's supplemented our income greatly but it's taking a toll on our free time. Basically we have none. We stay up late and work, we wake up early and work. Our office currently holds over 1,200 DVD's. If the growth continues I plan to quit my job by this Fall. I have to or we are going to have to hire someone. By then we will be dealing with over 500 DVD's a day, shipping and listing. There is no way I can do that, work and be a parent to the boys. I walk into my office and feel like I'm in the twilight zone. DVD's everywhere and I'm not sure how this happened because it happened so fast. Josh and I were 100% happy with our jobs and the way things were going. We knew we needed something else to supplement our income while saving for the refinance but we did not know this is where things would turn. It's crazy how life takes turns and twists and all of a sudden your doing something and it's getting bigger than you ever could have imagined.

Needless to say with the countless hours I spend on the computer I have very little time to blog but as we get a handle on this monster we created and learn how to manage our time better I can continue to be a better blogger instead of a slacker :)

I have tons of deals to post throughout the coming days. Old Navy Weekly, freebies, my Wags shopping trips, upcoming deals and even a giveaway! I also have new pictures of the house. I also have a ton of blogs to catch up on!

Ah, it feels good to be back!

FREE 2 Year Subscription to Working Mother Magazine

2009-01-28T13:21:00.002-06:00

Since I dropped the ball on alerting you to the Free 1 Year of Martha Stewart Living (shame on me) I thought I'd make sure my blog readers got in on this one.

RewardsGold.com is giving you a FREE 2 Year Subscription to Working Mother Magazine for giving them a simple product review on your handbag. Go here to sign up and claim yours! This will be my fourth subscription through RewardsGold.com and I've always been happy. No credit card required and you will not be billed!

Late Friday Musings

2009-01-09T10:07:00.004-06:00

This will be the First Edition of Friday Musings for me.

* I'm seriously considering trying the Master Cleanse again. Last year a attempted it but caved before the end. DH and I are setting up our home gym this weekend and are both not only going on a diet but are going to start a workout routine together. I have been playing with the idea of doing the cleanse again to prep for this. I keep telling myself I could have made it all the way last time. I really don't remember it being that hard and I felt so good after completing only part of the cleanse. I didn't lose any weight except for water weight but it wasn't the point. I just can't decide...

* I STILL don't have all the Christmas decor down. I'm not even kidding. I don't know what is with me. DH always makes fun of me because he thinks I'm the biggest procrastinator when it comes to certain things. When I lived with my Dad and it was just him and I in our condo we would leave our Christmas tree (fake I might add) up until March. I was a busy with high school, friends and work and the same with him, so it took forever for one of us to take it down. Hey, at least I did manage to get the tree down right after New Years!

* The weather was awesome today. I wish it was going to be like this tomorrow because I didn't get a chance to wash my car and every car wash I've been to in the last year sucks.

* I am in serious need of something to make Cowboy stop chewing on everything. I've had it up to here :: throws hand above head as far as it can go:: with his destructive behavior. Not only does he chew but he makes the biggest messes. He drinks out of any cup left within his reach, including coffee. He will drink the soapy water out of the sink when I am soaking dishes even after he is finished drinking an entire bowl of water. He chews the lid of the garbage can. He eats Lego's and he barks at everything. I work and work and work with him to no avail! He is smart too. He does all of this when no one is home or we are in bed. Little stink. I can't wait for the day when I can leave a box of Kleenex on the table and come home to find it untouched or when I can leave something on the counter without worrying about it being dragged off and destroyed.

* This week seemed to draaaaaaag by. Maybe because I've had so many days off the last few weeks. Either way, I'm so glad it's Friday and I can finally relax!

Take that rude Cashier!

2009-01-07T10:37:00.002-06:00

Walgreen's isn't always a breeze. I know that but for the most part I have been blessed to have a few awesome Walgreen's close to my house. My favorite Walgreen's of all time is where I planned to try my hand at the Garnier deal. There is no way I would have trouble. Right? Wrong!

I grabbed I filled my cart with 20 shampoos, conditioners and styling products, 15 papers, 3 Glade Candles and gum because my family tore through the last few packs I bought. Head to checkout and was told they were putting limit (of one) on the items per coupon. Since when? Whatever, I'll just grab 19 more booklets with Garnier coupons in them and use the coupons that have the same freaking UPC code as the one in my hand. She said no. Fine. I'll do 19 more transactions and keep the line backed up and we can be here all day because you wont follow corporate coupon policy. Then she has the nerve to say "It's just to early". Are you kidding me? Because I chose not to come at 8 tonight I am being denied? Now I know that's not Wags policy. I proceeded to ask for corporates number and she said she didn't have it. I said "Don't worry, I have it in my phone. I just wanted to see how rude you really would be so I could get you in more trouble with corporate". Her mouth dropped open and I walked out as I said "Have fun putting everything back"!

Then I headed up the street to another Walgreen's and bought everything on my list without a hitch. The beauty counter cashier was a nice as always and made sure to let me know she ordered extra Garnier so all her coupon loving customers could partake in the free loot!

I made two phone calls to corporate that day. One to complain and one to praise. One of those cashiers had a bad day and the other one left with a smile. I then donated more than half of what I bought. What comes around, goes around.

So, what did I get?

(20) Garnier Shampoos, Conditioners and Styling Products

Final Price = FREE after Q's

3 Glade 4 oz. Jar Candles

Final Price = $.50 each after coupons and Easy Saver Rebate

(3) packs Extra Gum

Final Price = $.99 after Easy Saver Q

15 Newspapers = $22.50

I used a $5/20 purchase coupon to make the papers cheaper. I paid $17.50 instead. Then I turned around and sold the coupons (or rather my time to cut and ship them) from all the inserts on ebay for a profit of $30 and counting. Ah, I puffy heart ebay!

If you haven't already....

2009-01-04T08:45:00.003-06:00

Go grab the Sunday Paper. Even better though, grab 10. It's rare to see 3 inserts in one paper let alone FIVE!!! There are 3 Smart Sources and 2 Red Plums with over 200 coupons. I think I calculated 248 or so. They are stacked with Garnier coupons, Buddies coupons, Aquafresh, Green Giant, General Mills etc....For the full list please visit Taylortown Preview.

Walgreen's Deals Week of 1/4

2009-01-03T10:48:00.006-06:00

Walgreen's Deals for January 4th through January 10th

Garnier Fructis Hair Care on Sale $3.99
(excludes conditioning treatments)
*Use $2 Easy saver Coupon
*Use $1/1 Shampoo or Conditioner Coupon or $1/1 Styling Product Coupon

Final Price = FREE

Reynolds Wrap Foil reg. priced $1.99
*Use In Ad Coupon on page #7
*Use $1/1 Coupon from 11/16 SS

Final Price = FREE

Dawn Dish Detergent on Sale $.99 (with 7 day in ad coupon)
*Use $.50/1 from 12/14 P&G

Final Price = $.49

Palmolive Dish Detergent reg. price $1.79
*Use $1/1 Super Q on page 12
*Use $.50/1 from 1/4 SS

Final Price = $.29

Electrasol Gel Pack 20ct. on Sale $3.49
*Use $2.50/ coupon from 1/4 SS
*Submit for $1.50 January Easy Saver rebate (limit 1)

Final Price = $.51 Overage!

Glade January Easy Saver Rebate Match-up
Note: Reminder that the Glade ESR is a limit of 4 for $4 in savings. You can mix and match but for time saving purposes I did the math as if you were going to buy 4.

Glade Scented Oil Plug In Refills on Sale 2/$5 (buy 4)
*Use (2) BOGO Free coupons from 12/7 RP
*Submit for 4 $1 rebates

Final Price = $.25 each

Glade Scented Oil Candle Refills on Sale 2/$5 (buy 4)
*Use (2) $2.50/2 refills coupons from 12/07 SS
*Submit for 4 $1 rebates

Final Price = $.25 each

Glade 4 oz. Jar Candles on Sale 2/$5 (buy 4)
*Use (4) $1/1 coupons from 12/07 SS
*Submit for 4 $1 rebates

Final Price = $.50 each

January Free After Rebate Deals

Orajel Cold Sore Treatment (brush or patches) = $8.49
*Use $1/1 coupon from 10/26 SS
*Submit for full January Easy Saver rebate (limit 1)
*Submit for $8 manufacturer mail in rebate

Final Price = $9 Money maker!

Revlon Matte Collection
(limit 1 up to $10 so Rebate varies)

Revlon Matte Collection Blush or Eyeliner = $9.99
*Use $1/1 coupon from 12/7 SS
*Submit for full January ESR

Final Price - $1 Money Maker!

Revlon Matte Collection Eyeshadow = $4.99
*Use $1/1 coupon from 12/7 SS
*Submit for full January ESR

Final Price - $1 Money Maker!

Revlon Matte Collection Lipstick = $7.99
*Use $1/1 coupon from 12/7 SS
*Submit for full January ESR

Final Price - $1 Money Maker!

AutoExpressions Vent Fresh Elite Auto Airfreshner = $4.99 (has free refill q inside)
*Submit for full January Easy Saver rebate (limit 1)

Final Price = FREE

Walgreen's Trippin

2009-01-02T21:52:00.003-06:00

(6) Dawn Dish Detergents reg. priced $1.99 = $7.96
*Used $1/1 7 Day In Ad coupon
*Used (6) $.50/1 coupons

Final Price = $2.94

(6) packs of Extra Gum = $1.98
*Used 3/$.99 Easy Saver Coupon

Final Price = $1.98
Note: This is a fabulous filler item for this month. I needed a filler item to eat my overage and multiple coupons.

Glade Dewberry Dreams Candle Holder on Clearance = $3.19
*Used $2.50/1 coupon

Final Price = $.69
~ As if I need anymore of these. I have 20 or so. I just couldn't help it!

(2) Garnier Fructis Styling Products on Clearance $2.19 = $4.38
*Used $2/1 Easy Saver Coupon
*Used $1/1 Garnier Styling Product Coupon

Final Price = $1.62 Money Maker!

Total Before Coupons = $17.51

Total Spent OOP = $3.99!!

Sure, I'll let you pay me to shop at your store!

2009-01-02T21:05:00.008-06:00

This is what happens when you don't use coupons until right before they are set to expire. I had over 50 coupons expiring on the 31st and I knew I had to get out and use them regardless of how I looked purchasing a dozen rolls of toilet paper and enough veggies to feed a small army. I sucked it up and went though and this is what I came back with!

Walmart

(12) White Cloud 4 pack (double roll) toilet paper reg. priced $2.00 = $24.00
*Used (12) $1/1 coupon

Final Price = $12.00

(22) Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers (new) reg. price $1.00 = $22.00
*Used (22) $1/1 coupon

Final Price = FREE!

(5) Ronzoni Smart Taste Pasta reg. priced $1.50 = $7.50
*Used $1/1 coupon

Final Price = $2.50

(8) Assorted Goody Ouchless Hair items reg. priced $2.12 = $16.96
*Used $2/1 Goody Ouchless printable

Final Price = $.96

Cute Shirt that I just had to have...$6. A reward to myself for such savvy shopping!

Total Before Coupons = $76.46

Total Spent OOP = $21.46!!

I used 47 coupons total in this transaction and it actually required management approval! The people in line behind me were not happy! I couldn't help but laugh at how mad they got. People have no patience these days. I told you I had coupons and yet you still chose to put your things down and stand in line with me. Don't hate!

Walgreen's

(4) Glade Scented Oil Candle Holders on Sale $3.99 = $15.96
*Used (4) $2.50/1 coupons from recent insert
*Submitted for $1/1 Easy Saver Rebate (Limit 4)

Final Price = $1.96

(5) Robitussin and Dimetapp Cold Meds on Sale $4 each = $20.00
Paid $20.00 (plus tax) and received 1 $10 RR and 2 $5 Register Rewards

Final Price = FREE!

Revlon Matte Eye Shadow = $4.99
*Used $1/1 Revlon coupon
*Submit for $4.99 January Easy Saver Rebate

Final Price = $1 Money Maker!

Orajel Cold Sore patches = $8.49
*Used $1/1 Orajel Coupon
*Submit for $8.49 January Easy Saver Rebate
*Submit for $8 Orajel Manufacturer Mail in Rebate

Final Price = $9 Money Maker!

(2) Blistex Chapsticks on Sale $.99 = $1.98
*Used (2) $.25/1 coupon

Final Price = $1.48

Total Before Coupons, RR and Rebates = $51.42

Total Spent OOP = NOTHING! I made $6.56!!

Goodbye 2008! Hello New Year!

2009-01-02T20:46:00.003-06:00

I couldn't be more happy to start the New Year. These last few months have been extremely trying on me, my marriage and my family. I look back at all that happened and though we created some wonderful memories in 2008, it also brought a lot of grief. I have to say, it's definitely made us stronger and I wont forget that. I'm hopeful 2009 will bring joy, happiness and lots of possibilities.

I almost thought we wouldn't make it in one piece. Yet here we are, ringing in the New Year!

Our New Years Resolution? We have one. Make 2009 better than 2008!

Hot Deal Alert

2008-12-29T12:33:00.007-06:00

I'm re-entering the world of blogging briefly for a Hot Deal Alert. I may be stressed to the max but couponing and saving always makes me feel better ;) I would like to say Thank You to those of you who left a comment on my last post. I appreciated it so much. I cried reading the posts. Partly because I was so down and partly because it felt good to know so many people are that caring and selfless and took the time to reach out to someone who needed it. Thank You!

The week of 1/4 Walgreen's has Garnier Fructis Shampoo, Conditioner and Styling products on sale for $2.99. The January Easy Saver has a coupon for $2.00 off any Shampoo, Conditioner or Styling products (excluding Deep Conditioner 10.2 oz, Serum 5.1 oz or Treatment 4.2 oz) and there are coupons for $1.00 off any Garnier Shampoo or Conditioner and $1.00 Garnier Styling Products (exp. 1.31.09). This will make them FREE! You still have time to order these coupons in bulk off ebay. I ordered them for $1.50 per set of 20. So go get yours in time for this sale! I'd like to add this is the perfect sale to take advantage of for charity. Womens shelters can use Shampoo and Conditioner and would greatly appreciate it, especially this time of year!

Happy Saving!

I'm taking a break

2008-12-17T22:02:00.003-06:00

I'll keep this short. I'm taking a break from my blog. Right now maybe the best thing for me is to keep blogging but I just can't bring myself to even get on here. I haven't eaten or slept in days. My life has turned upside down.

In less than a week I've come a step away from divorce and one of our dear friends was found dead at only 24 years old.

Just saying it out loud to someone other than family made me feel better.

I officially hate this Holiday Season and all the stress that has come along with it.

Could this be the end? Will Little Caylee get a proper burial?

2008-12-11T13:12:00.003-06:00

Body of Small Child found near Anthony Home.

Fox News story here. Yahoo News story here.

December Deals

2008-12-09T14:41:00.002-06:00

I haven't been as busy this month due because I have been concentrating on Christmas shopping but I picked up a few good deals this month already.

Walgreen's

I double dipped in November using the November and December Easy Saver catalog for this transaction

Transaction #1

(2) BioInfusion Shampoo and Conditioner 33.8 Ounce Bottles on Sale 2/$20
*Used (2) $5/1 December Easy Saver Q's
*Submitted for $10 November Easy Saver Rebate when you spend $20 on BioInfusion

Final Price = FREE

Transaction #2 ~ These next deals are current

(2) Schick Titanium Razor/Trimmer on Sale $6.99
*Used $/1 December All You Coupon
*Used $3/1 December ESQ

Final Price = FREE

Reynolds Wrap Aluminum Foil regular price $1.60
*Used (2) In Ad Coupons making them $.99 each
*Used $1/1 coupon from 11/16 SS

Final Price = FREE

A small filler will be needed to eat the overage.

Walmart

Transaction #1

(10) Glade Aerosol Sprays regular price $.86
*Used (5) $1/2 Glade from 11/2 SS

Final Price = $3.60

Target

Transaction #1

(4) Air Wick Lumin Airs on Sale for $4.99
*Used (4) $5/1 from 11/7 SS

Final Price = FREE

(9) Rayovac 2 pack Alkaline Batteries found in $1 Spot (not all pictures because so many things needed batteries at our house :)
*Used $1/1 from 11/7 SS

Final Price = FREE

Threw in $2 creamer as a filler to eat overage. I needed creamer anyway.

Looking Back and Looking Forward

2008-12-09T12:27:00.007-06:00

On Sunday I sat down with the Post Dispatch and a front page article caught my eye. The title was "The Fight to Save the Dying Mall" by Todd C. Frankel. I read the first few lines and went to turn the page when I read a small sentence right next to the photo that went along with the story "Northwest Plaza once had 210 stores. Now it has fewer than 40". Northwest Plaza is located about 15 miles from my home in St. Ann. For those of you who don't know I live in Maryland Heights and St. Ann is no further away from us than upscale Creve Coeur and Chesterfield. Maryland Heights borders Creve Coeur, St. Charles, Chesterfield and we also border Bridgeton and St. Ann so this article hit home for me. Though I have never shopped at this mall I have driven by it and after reading the article which can be found here, I wondered how I felt about the possibility of the idea of reinventing it and pouring money into it to save it. $96 Million to as high as $250 Million to be exact. Some Tax Payer money no less. I wondered about how good of an idea this could possibly be. I wondered about the affect it might have on my area. Good or Bad.

A little history on the Northwest Plaza Mall: It opened in 1963 and is St. Louis largest mall spanning 1.7 Million Square Feet. Since it's opening it has changed ownership and names quite a few times and many stores have come and gone, leaving empty stores and and almost empty food court. The Mall is now owned by Somera and managed by General Growth Properties with a plan to turn Northwest Plaza into Lindbergh Town Center.

Last night I logged on to find an interesting blog post in my Google Reader from one of my favorite blog 56 Houses Left entitled "A Dying Mall....and the ill STL". I was engrossed in the blog entry from the first paragraph and for the next few minutes I read about this mall from the Authors point of view. It got me thinking and I did a little research.

I decided to see what it was with this particular mall in this particular area and it's real reason for it's demise. I wont beat around the bush. I am a nervous person by nature and parts of St. Ann scare the crap out of me. All cities have crime, I'm not oblivious to that. I've shopped at Walmart across from NWP and had the door closed locked on several occasions due to shoplifters and once a very suspicious "emergency" that has caused me not to go back. This is the same Walmart they plan to merge into the new NWP as early as 2010. I decided to do a little investigating and reach outside of my own experience with this area.

I have been made aware of the problems this area faces just by going there but what happened in the past? Has it always been like this? Are the problems that Walmart has today the same problems that NWP had that eventually led to its demise? Or did it play only a small role? The story in the PD says nothing much about why the mall is what it is now or it's crime history and how it might have played a part. It contributes it to the economy but only briefly and talks more about it's future. I had to ask myself, if it really is the economy then why try and bring it back to life during a recession? It's no secret malls aren't doing as well as they were only a few year ago but you don't see West County Mall or Galleria as empty and as dismal as NWP.

After I Googled the mall I was met with tons of stories on the crime the mall and surrounding area endured. I read about mall shootings and fights. Gang violence and shoplifters. On Christmas Eve in 94 a murder occured in Famous Barr.

As I read some contribute it to demographics, others to the Management Co, other to the economy. All don't seem to have changed. This mall will still be owned by this company after the renovations, it will still be located in the same area and as of right now the economy isn't getting any better. At least not to a place where it can support another mall and bring in the income it takes to make a mall of this magnitude thrive.

Could this renovation and restructure be a good thing for this area? In a struggling economy is it the right thing to do? Would this bring more life to the area that sits only 15 miles from my home? Or is this a waste of time and money? With the economy the way it is and the clear problems with crime in this area, will it hurt the town of St. Ann or help it?

Here is a picture of the mall during it's prime:

Here is the mall as of now:

At this point it's clear this mall is in trouble but I'm not sure a remodel will help. I'll be watching as plans move forward. I'm interested to see the outcome.

Please Step Out of Google Reader

2008-12-08T15:36:00.001-06:00

and check out the new layout.

Like? Dislike? Like the other one better?

'Tis the Season

2008-12-08T09:29:00.005-06:00

This weekend was filled with Christmas Spirit as we put up our first Christmas Tree in our new home. We go through this tradition a lot as we've put up 5 trees in 5 homes in 7 years but it wasn't any less special.

I did a lot of decorating this year. We set up my Christmas Bears and Santa that my Aunt gave me my first Christmas away from home and a few other decorations I forgot I even had because they hadn't been up the last 2 years.

I love my cheesy little blocks. They are actually vases but they look like Ice Cubes. I'm a dork, I know.

Now for the tree. This year I changed the colors of our tree from Blue and White Theme to White and Silver "Icicle Theme" and I was really happy with how the tree turned out.

Finding and putting up the tree was a pain. We search for miles to find a tree lot with a 7 ft tall skinny tree. We only had about 36 inches of space coming away from the wall to fit a tree in. One of the minuses of having a smaller house with over sized furniture. It was so frustrating trying to find a skinny tree and everyone looked at us like we were crazy when we asked for the skinniest tree they had. I don't know how many times I heard "People usually ask for the fat ones". We finally found our little tree and were so glad to get it home. My nose was red and my ears were frozen from being out in the cold. Of course while putting up the tree we managed to knock my candle holder off the ledge and we broke my candles and dented the floor. Bummer. Once the tree was up we all decorated it and keeping with tradition, at the very end, Josh put the Angel on top while we all stood and watched. Then my kids broke the peaceful silence with the question "Mom, can we eat all the candy canes now"? Ah, Christmas is finally here.

Someone is getting big!

2008-12-07T17:13:00.003-06:00

Please forgive me but I need to be a major attention whore right now and show of my youngest Furbaby, Cowboy. Otherwise known as Cow Cow, Tow Tow, How Now Brown Cow and Cowmanshu. I took some new pictures of him today and cannot believe how big he is getting! I am so proud of him and what a pretty boy he is becoming.

Here he was at 6 weeks

and here he is today at almost 9 months!

Ya, I'm holding a piece of cheese next to the camera :) It's the only way to make him "sit pretty".

In the words of Jodie Sweetin ....How Rude!

2008-12-06T16:31:00.005-06:00

Customer Service: Assistance and other resources that a company provides to the people who use or buy its products or services.

So when I call your store and ask if you have an item in your store, so that I can avoid driving to every location in the St. Louis area to find it, you check and see, right? Then you kindly let me know whether or not you have it and if you do then they can come and purchase it, right? One would think so.

So I call a certain clothing store ::cough Forever 21 cough:: in search of this little number

The Margaux Lace Dress I saw on their website. After I spent 3 hours scouring 3 stores to find this dress yesterday:

With no luck I might add, I wasn't about to spend another 3 hours looking for another freaking dress. My bright Idea? Call the stores and see if they have it in stock so I don't have to run around in the cold and in busy malls on a Saturday.

I was hung up on when I called the first store. They picked up, I heard laughing and the phone clicked off. Tried again, no answer. So I call the second store. The girl on the other end proceeds to tell me she doesn't look for items for customers because that's not her job. I asked her if I could speak to someone who could help and she then tells me she is the manager and she is not helping me. Ya right you are the manager. Whatever. So then I try the 3rd store and at first the call was friendly and I ask if they have this dress in or if they plan to get it in anytime in the next week and the lady puts me on hold. Another woman picks up and asks what I am looking for again. I tell her and she puts me back on hold. After 10 minutes someone else gets on the phone with me and says "Hello" I said "Hi, I was put on hold. Someone is looking for a dress for me" then she says "Oh, I think the girl helping you just went to lunch. She must have forgotten you". I hung up.

Wow. You have to be kidding me. If this dress saga continues I will be wearing my PJ's to the office Christmas Party.

Walgreens Deals for December 7th-13th

2008-12-05T14:19:00.005-06:00

I'm going to try to get in the habit of posting deals before they come up rather than after.

Here are the few deals I see for the week of the 7th.

Schick Titanium Razor on Sale $6.99
*Use $4/1 from December All You Mag
*Use $3/1 Easy Saver

Final Price = FREE

Reynolds Wrap Aluminum Foil on Sale $.99
*Use $1/1 from 11/16 Smart Source or 12/8 Smart Source
*Use Walgreens In Ad Q on Page 16

Final Price = FREE

Scotch Magic or Wrapping Tape 3 pack on Sale 2/$2
*Submit for $2 December Rebate

Final price = FREE

M&M's Premiums Candy on Sale 2/$8
*Use $1/1 Easy Saver Q
*Use (2) $1/1 from 11/16 Red Plum

Final price = 2/$5 or $2.50 each ~ Seriously a value for little boxes of Heaven!

Hershey's Holiday Candy on Sale 4/$10
*Use $1.50/1 WYB 3 Bags Hershey Q from 11/16 Smart Source
*Submit for $5 December Easy Saver Rebate

Final Price = 4/$3.50 Less than $1 a bag!

This next one is a YMMV meaning it MIGHT work at your Wags depending on their policy.

Maybelline New York Lipstick, Gloss and Liner BOGO this week. Pick out products around $8. Most are priced right around here anyway.
*Use (2) $4/1 Coupons from the 12/7 SS paired with the BOGO to get them both free!

Right now Walgreens.com is advertising some lipcolor at $3.99 and in this case you only use 1 coupon. Prices vary by location.

We are still in the process of figuring this one out as one Sunday Coupon Preview site is saying this coupon will be in the paper and the other is not. I'll update when I know for sure.

Happy Saving!

Airwick and Pepsi Deals

2008-12-05T13:59:00.003-06:00

This week at Target they are running a couple good deals. I would have posted this sooner but I didn't even know these deals were going on until I stopped in today to get coffee. I was just browsing around and picked up a few good deals. My coffee was also $4 cheaper.

I heart Target.

Buy 5 qualifying Pepsi Products for $15 and receive a $5 Gift Card at checkout.

Final Price = 5/$10 or $2 per pack & .17 a can

Air Wick Freshmatic Ultra Starter Kit on Sale for $5.99
*Use $5/1 coupon from 11/16 Smart Source

Final Price = $.99 each

Fashion Dilemma & Holiday Party DONT'S!

2008-12-04T13:45:00.005-06:00

As a female you would think I would have at least one qualifying dress to wear to Josh and I's upcoming office party. However as I go through my closet a mere 9 days before said party I realize unless I plan to wear dressy pants and a nice top, I'm going naked and that wont be pretty. I have not one cute dress to wear. Last year the party was a Dave & Busters and I thought I dressed correctly but I walked in and realized I must have missed the memo because I was the only one wearing pants, besides the guys ;) I guess that's what you get when a bunch of guys put together a Holiday Party and leave out the attire section on the invite. Sheesh.

My dilemma is attempting to find the right dress in a week. I need a dress that goes well under a thigh length black coat and pairs nicely with plain black, peep toe pumps.

I found these four at Forever 21. All under $30. Top two are my fav's so far. Thoughts?

Just for laughs
20 Things NOT to do at your Holiday Office Party
1. Enforce the mistletoe rule: Make out with your boss, intern, or the significant other of either.
2. Interpret "dress festive" to include anything that could be worn as lingerie.
3. Split a bottle of anything with your assistant.
4. Wear reindeer ears and antlers.
5. Shovel shrimp from the buffet table onto your plate like it's your last meal.
6. Use a lull in conversation to force your table to watch you try to tie a cherry stem into a knot. This should especially be avoided if it takes you 25 minutes to do it.
7. Dance on anything other than the floor.
8. Use the open bar as an opportunity to get your boss - or yourself - plastered and ask for a promotion.
9. Sit on Santa’s (a.k.a. Eduardo from IT) lap.
10. Wear a holiday sweater.
11. Spend all night schmoozing with the interns.
12. Drink too much and share how you really feel about everyone in your department.
13. Wear a mistletoe headband.
14. Talk about work the whole time. It's not the time or place for a heated discussion about network security.
15. Hit on a coworker's spouse.
16. Hit on a coworker's very mature-looking teenage son.
17. Stand next to Ellen from Accounting, who gets amorous when she drinks.
18. Anything in the presence of a camera that you wouldn't want photographic evidence of in the company newsletter.
19. Raid the open bar like it’s an ex’s wedding reception.
20. Invite the boss to the after-party.

Turn on the Rocky Theme Song

2008-11-26T10:46:00.013-06:00

I am getting pumped up for Black Friday Shopping!

Do,Do,Doooooooo. Do,Do, Doooooooo!

Just kidding. I'm not about to go out there with a fighter mentality and I wont be throwing any punches (unless I get hit first ::wink wink::). I will however stealthy move through those aisles with amazing speed grabbing everything I need and being first in line to check out where and be back in bed before hubby leaves for work. 'Cause I'm smooth like that!

Honestly, I almost wasn't going to go this year. I was un-impressed with the ads but after a closer look I found almost everything on my list. Cheap Toys, DS games, DVD's, Awesome deals on the only clothing brand DH wears etc...I am also going to try online shopping this year. I have no idea how it will work out but I'll give it a go. I'm hearing lots of stores will open up their online BF prices at 12:01 a.m. and other when the stores open. I cannot seem to find a list with the times but I'll ad it if I do.

Here is the list for In Store Openings:

Best Buy: 5:00 a.m.
Kohl's: 4:00 a.m.
K Mart: 6:00 a.m.
Bath and Body Works: 12:01 a.m.
Burlington Coat Factory: 6:00 a.m.
Target: 5:00 a.m.
JC Penney's: 5:00 a.m.
Toys R Us: 5:00 a.m.
Old Navy: 5:00 a.m.
Walmart : 5:00 a.m.
Walgreens: 7:00 a.m. (though I have heard 24 hour stores with start sales at 12:01)

This is just a general list. Hours may vary.

My best advice to avoid hitting multiple stores is Price Matching. This year Walmart is doin' it big! They not only have the hottest ad out but they also price match (store policy). Bring in an ad from another retailer and Walmart will price match on an identical item. Did you see a DVD at Best Buy for $4 but Walmart doesn't have it listed in their sale ad or if they do it's $11? Bring the ad and give it the cashier at checkout. They will not be taking a copy or ad print out though, so keep this in mind.

Lots of retailers are offering promotions on this day too.

*Kohl's has Kohl's Cash where you receive $10 in Kohl's Cash for every $50 you spend. Kohl's Cash is just like regular cash but you do not receive change. You can use it in between the dates on the certificate and say you buy something and your total is $10.51, use your KC and pay the remainder OOP. I had $30 in Kohl's cash last year which I gave to DH so he could use it when he shopped.

*Macy's has printable coupons for $10/$25 Purchase and a 15% off al day shopping pass. Go here to print yours!

*JC Penney's has FREE shipping on orders of $25 or more, offer code 44FS25, through December 1st. From 3 - 11 p.m. they have a coupon for $10/$50 purchase and $15/$75 purchase for those of you who shop a little later in the day. If you will be shopping in store that day don't forget to grab your free snow globe. I always ask for two (and they are happy to give them to me) and I put them in the boys stockings.

I'll be in line at Kohl's at 3:30, all bundled up drinking my Pumpkin Spice Latte! Where will you be? Sleeping and recovering from Turkey overload? On the computer snagging deals or out in the cold with the rest of us crazy people?

I'm not worthy!

2008-11-24T12:38:00.007-06:00

Oh how I love me some awards! These two are special to me because I received them from one of my FAVORITE bloggers, Amy, at Chapters! Who I honestly didn't even know read my blog. I'm honored! Please go check out her blog if your one of the few who hasn't found it yet. It's an amazing blog. Amy holds nothing back and I think we can all appreciate that.

Here are the rules:

1. Post the award on your blog.
2. Link me for giving it to you.
3. Link the originating post.

4. Pass the award on to five more deserving people.
5. Post these rules for your recipients

We all know I follow the rules. Sometimes ::wink wink::

I am passing these two awards on. I am going to try and reach as many of the blogs I love and pass each on 5 times rather than give both to five. Gotta share the wealth!

Superior Scribbler Award:

1. Kristal at Good Food, Good Friends, Good Life
2. Courtney at Courtneyology101
3. G at All Things G&D ~ Just started reading her blog and I'm hooked!
4. Jenn at Living Life
5. Julia at My Life in Transition ~ I'm sure Julia has already received every award possible as her blog is simply FAB but I had to give her an award. Her blog rocks.

Hot Blog Award:

1. Nicole at Sunshine and Blue Skies
2. Teresa at Eating, Drinking and Being Married
3. N at The Wishes and The Glitches
4. Lindsey at Learning to be a Wife ~ Her blog has won a lot of deserving awards. She seems to be missing this one so I'm proud to give it to her!
5. Maria at When in Rome

Don't forget to pass it on girls!

Bath & Body Works Coupon ~ Free Item!

2008-11-24T12:25:00.005-06:00

Bath & Body Works released a great coupon just in time for Christmas shopping! It's an In-Store only coupon good for a free item up to $13 with a $10 purchase. Coupon is valid through Christmas Eve so even all you last minute shoppers can take part.

You can print your coupon here.

Compliments of Erin at I am Frugal. Thank You Erin!

A Goody Deal

2008-11-24T10:23:00.002-06:00

This Goody deal has been circling for awhile. I never posted because I found it a little figured it had already ended. But it hasn't!

You can print your $2 Goody Coupons here. You can print multiples. I was concerned about this but I had no problems redeeming 5 of these coupons in the same transaction. They scanned fine. They work on an Goody Ouchless product valued at $2 or more. You can use them on brushes, headbands, headwraps, little elastics ($2.12 at Walmart) etc...I purchased 5 sets for a little over $2!!

Sweet :)

Stockpile Trippin'

2008-11-21T20:18:00.004-06:00

For the last few months I have been slowly growing my stockpile. I have tons of razors, toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner and make-up. This week I was able to match coupons and sales and stock up on a few other items. I shopped at 2 stores this week.

Walgreen's:

20 bags of Chex Mix (not all of which are pictured) on Sale for $.99 each
*Used 20 $.50/1 Coupons (11/9 SS)

Final Price = $9.80/20

Wal-mart:

12 Johnson & Johnson Buddies Bar Soaps regular price $.97
*Used 4 $3/3 of Any J&J Product

Final Price = $.36 OVERAGE

20 Bags of Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers (not all pictured) on Rollback for $1.08 each
*Used 20 $1/1 Green Giant Steamers Q's (11/16 SS)

Final Price = $1.60/20

2 Bags of Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers with Sauce regularly priced at $1.98 each
*Used 2 $1/1 Green Giant Steamers Q's (11/16 SS)

Final Price = $1.96/2

10 Boxes of Ronzoni Pasta (best pasta ever!) regularly priced at $1.50
*Used 10 $1/1 coupons

Final Price = $5.00/10

12 Glade Aerosol Sprays regularly priced at $.86
*Used 12 $1/2 coupon (11/2 SS)

Final Price = $4.32/12

1 Bottle of Coffee Mate Creamer regularly priced at $1.98
*Used $.50/1 coupon (11/2 SS)

Final Price = $1.48 (I can do better but I needed creamer)

Total Spent OOP = $23.80!!

Needless to say I saved a lot! I stocked up on everything we love and use this week. I still have a ton of coupons left for the Buddies, the pasta, the Glade and the Steamers that I plan to use before the sales end and the coupons expire. I'm big about not clearing shelves so I'm going to my other local Wal-mart tomorrow. I wonder if DH will finally agree we need a deep freezer?

If your wondering...No, I didn't buy all these papers and clip all these coupons! I bought them off ebay. I matched sales and bought the Q's in bulk. I paid no more than $1-$1.50 for each set. Much easier than buying 10-20 papers and clipping them myself!

Tag!

2008-11-20T10:55:00.004-06:00

I've been tagged! I've been tagged by the lovely Carmina at Hey, No One is Perfect!

Lets get started. Of course being tagged comes with rules and I will follow them. I have to give 7 random and/or weird facts about moi. So here we go.

1. I'm unbelievably shy. It has taken a toll on my life and stopped me from being exactly who I want to be. You wouldn't think I'm as shy as I am by looking at me but it's worse than you think. Normal people do not have to try as hard as I do to interact with people. My face gets easily flushed and I get fearful. I get hot and sweaty until I get comfortable. People think I am a bitch because sometimes I can't bring myself to say Hi. My husband has been my greatest asset in fighting this and I'm getting a little better as I get older. I have to say though, working in Real Estate really helped me come to terms with this issue and begin working through it. I was forced to get over my fears working in this industry.

2. I will not eat folded chips. I will pick through a bag of chips and only eat the ones that have not be folded. I think they taste greasy and icky. I will however, with certain brands of chips, pull them apart and eat them. I know, I hear it all the time. I'm a weirdo.

3. I think I have a mild case of OCD. It gets really bad during stressful times and has the tendency to cause me and my family a lot of grief when it flares up. I'm working on it.

4. I am a spoiler. Presents, books, surprises. You name it, I like to spoil it. For myself that is. I do it to other people too sometimes. Like the time I went Christmas shopping and came home and had my husband try on a sweater I knew would fit him to make sure it was the right size so I could give it to him early! I also went to a forum to spoil the third book in the Twilight series, Eclipse, for myself. I couldn't help it! I get it from my Mom and it drives everyone nuts!

5. I will only watch a movie once. Unless it's a childrens movie or one of my FEW classic favorites Wizard of Oz, A Nightmare Before Christmas or Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. It's the same with books though I have never read any book twice. I wont even be reading Twilight more than once ;)

6. I don't hold babies because I am scared I will drop them. Seriously. I am the mother of two boys and holding my boys came naturally to me. I never once felt as though I would drop them but I cannot hold other peoples babies. As an adult I have held only two babies besides my own and It was the most uncomfortable feeling EVER. I couldn't even enjoy it. I have to wait until they reach at least 2 months of age. I'm also scared they will start crying while I'm holding them and I will freak out.

7. I have a mad obsession with with CSI. I've seen almost every episode of Miami, NY and Crime Scene. I have hours and hours of episodes on DVR. I love all the gore and mystery. I never cover my eyes when blood squirts everywhere or when they find someone decapitated. It's extremely intriguing how they solve these horrific crimes.

My victims will be:
Amy at Chapters ~ If you haven't been to her blog yet. It's amazing. Go!
Mary at Girl Stand Still
Morissa at A Day in the Life
Lisa at High Heels and Sweatshirts
Amber at My Life as a Trout
Jamie from I am a Money Magnet ~ A blog I recently found and adore!
and last but not least Super Coupon Girl!!

We Have a Winner!

2008-11-14T11:16:00.005-06:00

The Winner of these darling little Etsy Magnets is

*
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*
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*
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*
*
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Nicole at Sunshine and Blue Skies!! Congrats Nicole, I know they will look so cute on your fridge! Go ahead and email me at BreaBoyd at hotmail dot com with your address and I'll ship them out!

Thank You to everyone who entered. I wish I had enough of there little guys to give everyone!

Now this may be my first giveaway but it isn't my last. I have two giveaways that will be coming before the end of the year, including my 1 Year Anniversary Giveaway! So stay tuned :)

December All You Coupons

2008-11-14T10:04:00.003-06:00

By now the December Issue of All You has hit the stands. I got mine already and inside are some more great coupons! Here is the list of the coupons inside each issue:

.55/1 any Kings Hawaiin bread product (except 4 pk rolls)
.50/1 any Swiss Miss sensible sweets hot cocoa mix including no sugar, fat free, diet 25 calorie, pick me up, and great start
.50/1 any New York frozen product
.75/1 any kids Colgate toothpaste
.75/1 any kids Colgate toothbrush
$1/2 Chex cereal
$1/2 Betty Crocker pouch or box potatoes
$1/1 Ziploc Zip n steam bags
$2/1 Marie Callenders signature sautes
$1/2 Heinz cocktail sauce
$1/1 Steam n Mash Ore Ida
.55/1 Marzetti 11 oz or up dip
.50/1 Mrs dash seasoning blend
.65/2 Domino sugar 2 lbs or larger
$1/1 Tyson single or twin pack cornish hens
$1/1 any Brut product
$4/1 any Schick Quattro titanium razor, refill, or travel gift set
.55/2 Dole cans mandarin oranges or tropical mixed fruit
.50 off All you health and fitness
.75/1 Wet Ones wipes 40 count or larger canister or box of singles
$1/2 POM pomegranates
$1/1 Jergens moisturizer 7.5oz, natural glow 2 oz, or body 4 oz
$1/2 Nestle toll house cookie dough
$1/2 Nestle toll house morsels
Free colour rush eye shadow wyb sexy curves mascara
$1/1 Lasting finish lipstick
$1.50/1 Dove cream oil body lotion or hand cream
$1/1 Orville kernel popcorn
$1/1 Orville popcorn oil
.75/1 Slim Jim 16 ct canister or larger
$1/1 Reddi whip 6.5 oz can or larger
$1/1 Suave moisturizing lotion 18 oz or larger
$3.50/1 Dove Skinvitalizer

Coupon Match-ups:

Schick Titanium Razor is on Sale until Saturday at Walgreen's for $6.99
*Use the $4/1 Q in All You
*Use the $3/1 Easy Saver Q from the November Catalog
Final Price = FREE ~ This would make a good stocking stuffer for hubby!

So far that's all I have got for now but the new sale ads start Sunday and I'll add match-ups as they come out!

I'm Honored

2008-11-10T11:25:00.004-06:00

I was recently given the Kreativ Blogger Award by Super Coupon Girl. Many Thanks indeed SCG! If you haven't been to her blog you have to check it out. Go all the way through her blog and not just the main page. You won't be disappointed! She is seriously beyond amazing at what she does and has had a long standing seat on my sidebar as I have been reading her blog for what seems like forever! Her blog has given me so much inspiration and I hope it will for you also.

I couldn't decide if I wanted to follow the rules that come with the award...They vary anyway. List 6 things your thankful for or that you love and 6 blogs to tag. List 7 and 7 etc...Lord knows I have more than 6 or 7 blogs I stalk. Limiting it to just 6 is hard and there are many deserving bloggers out there! I wish I could give it to everyone on my "Stalkworthy Blogs" list.

I decided to chose blogs I'd been reading the longest. Blogs that had me hooked from the beginning. I also chose mainly based on how they post (with one exception) and the overall layout and look of these blogs. Blog creation is not easy and I think that effort needs to be rewarded.

Six Things I am Thankful For:

1. My Amazing Husband and my two Wonderful Little Boys
2. My Adoring and very Supportive Family and Friends
3. As much as they drive me insane - My animals. How I love those little sh*ts ;)
4. My Home. Lately this is a big one for me as we almost lost is recently. I can't imagine if I had to sell. I love my little house!
5. It's cliche but I'm thankful for Life. Very thankful.
6. Coffee. Without which my life might go in slow motion.

Six Bloggers who I am passing this award onto:

1. Sharon at Culinary Adventures of a New Wife - This girl can cook! I am amazed by her and all the hard work she puts into her blog. It's not easy being the author of a cooking blog. I know first hand. Her recipes and their pictures are simply mouth watering.
2. Kristal at Good Food, Good Friends, Good Life - Kristal's blog is a shoe in for an award and I'm surprised she hasn't been nominated yet. Unless I missed it. Anyhow, her blog is a very good read. She has been a very dedicated author who posts regularly , holding nothing back, about everything in her life. Friends, Family, Her home, Her uber adorable Furbabies etc...Not to mention her hubby who happens to be the sweetest guy on earth. Oh, and he can cook too. Lucky Girl!
3. Jenn at Living Life - I shouldn't be giving her an award because she has been feeding my shopping problem lately. Every time that girl posts a pair of shoes or an outfit on her blog I feel as though I NEED it ;) No seriously, it's been great watching Jenn on her Journey. She has a way with words and her passion about life comes through in every post.
4. Lisa at High Heels and Sweatshirts - She is one of the people that you feel as though you already know when you haven't even met. We share a love of good food, fashion, good books (Twilight in particular) and OPI nail polish. Her blog covers everything from her personal life, her home, to recipes and restaurant reviews never leaving out any detail.
5. Christie at Team DeJean - Christie and her hubby are the proud parents of a new baby girl and while Christie hasn't posted in FOREVER (no hard feelings girl. Your a new Mommy) her blog is still a favorite of mine. There seriously isn't anything Christie can't do. If you get a chance check out her handmade jewelry here.
6. Lauren at Live.Laugh.Love - You know, come to think of it....I don't think I have ever commented on Lauren's blog even though it's one of my favorites. I'm so bad! So I have to show the appreciation now and say that her blog is amazing and if you haven't been. Go! Take special note to her gorgeous wedding pictures, her very talented husband and their super cute new home!

I wish I could have given it out to more but I'm in a mood to follow the rules as to not jinx my chances of earning any more fabulous awards :) I know this award is going to circle around and hit everyone I wanted to give it to. No doubt about that! Us girls like to support our fellow bloggers.

It's happening....

2008-11-07T11:00:00.004-06:00

This one is for Mary and all the other Twilight loving gals urging me to start the first book in the series that I have had for DAYS. Mind you I have carried this book around since I got it in the mail. I took it to work, I took it to get my oil changed but I just couldn't start reading it. I read all the reviews about how hard it was to put it down. Specifically, All Things G&D's review. Go read it if you haven't it's fabulously funny and if your like me, it's scary :) I'm a Mom of two who doesn't have the option of getting so engrossed in something and was scared that if I did, NOTHING would get done.

I started it last night. The kids went to bed and I did some housework. I wanted to wait for DH to get home from his hockey game and I knew he would be late because it was playoffs. I couldn't sleep so I picked it up and began reading. Before I knew it I had to pee and I looked at the clock and it was 12:05! I had been reading for 3 hours straight. I don't think I even shifted positions during that 3 hours. It was almost as if I was in the book. I forced myself to go to sleep when DH got home at 12:30. I had very vivid dreams of Edward and Bella. I woke up at 3:00 and read some more. I read a little before I took Jax to school and I read more when I got home. At this point I hadn't done any of my daily chores which I usually get done in the first hour of my day. The dogs got fed 3 hours later than normal because aside from Jordan's needs nothing has been done. I finally took the book to the basement and left it on a shelf down there. I am taking a break and wont begin reading again until the boys are asleep tonight.

Needless to say I am addicted. I just ordered the second one and I find myself paying for expedited shipping so it can be here by the time I'm done with this one!

Help. Me.

It's Here!

2008-11-06T13:07:00.003-06:00

I love to get that knock on the door. You know, the one your not really expecting. You run to your door and see the UPS guy walking away from your door step. Who doesn't get excited? The UPS guy (or girl but in my case a guy) is so different than the USPS guy because most likely all your going to get from the USPS guy are bills and junk. Not the UPS guy! He never brings me something I don't want!

Two days ago he brought my Twilight book and today he brought a slightly bigger package! Woohoo!

My package wasn't even supposed to be shipped until the 14th. I only ordered it a few days ago!

I purchased the sweater, the tank, 2 bras and the boyshorts for a little under $28. That's less than $6 an item. They also sent a catalog and a $10 off anything coupon. I am very happy with Victoria's Secret. Fast Shipping and Amazing Deal!

Anyone else get their package?

Happy 100th Post to Me!

2008-11-06T08:11:00.002-06:00

It's Official! This is my 100th post. I started this blog with the intent of sharing my trials and tribulations with my friends and family. Almost a year later I have over 50 subscribers (not much compared to some but amazing to me) and over the last two months my daily reads have gone from 5-10 to over 60 a day. Some days reaching into the 150+ range! I can only hope we continue to grow.

As you can see things have changed a little around here. I have been working long and hard to change the look of my blog as my blog has looked almost the same from the beginning. My favorite change? My itty bitty little siggy :) I have also included a few more fabulous blogs to my side bars. Some daily reads, some frugal blogs, scrapbook and blog design etc...

I hope you like the change as much as I do.

I thought long and hard about my 100th post. Do I do the usual 100 things about me or have my readers tell me about themselves? Do I make it short and sweet or give some sappy speech about my blogging journey yadda, yadda, yadda? Eh. None of the above sounded right. I realized I wouldn't even be blogging if there wasn't anyone reading so how do I show my readers that they are important to me?

A Giveaway of course!

This giveaway is to honor my 100th post and honor my readers! When choosing where to purchase the product I would be giving away it's was obvious! Etsy! I come from a very crafty family and I jump at any chance I get to support the creator of something directly. I searched Etsy for hours looking for the perfect item. I wanted something small but special. Something unique. Something Damask, duh!

Etsy Seller A Little Bit of Somethin' out of Austin Texas is the creator of these darling little magnets. You will be receiving a set of 3 Damask print, refrigerator magnets each measuring 1 1/2 inches.

How do I enter you ask? Easy. Leave a comment with your email address. To better your chances subscribe to my blog and leave another comment indicating you did. If you are already a subscriber leave me a second comment letting me know you already do. I want to make it fair for those who subscribed already. To give everyone ample time to enter I am placing the deadline for the November 16th. I'll choose a winner via Random.org and announce it November 17th.

**Update: Choosing to end this baby early! These little magnets are burning a hole in their little package waiting to be placed on someones fridge! So I'll be announcing the winner on Friday November 14th!**

You can't win if you don't enter!

Stay tuned because my 1 Year Anniversary is fast approaching and I have another FABULOUS Etsy gift to giveaway!

I Rocked the Vote!

2008-11-04T13:26:00.004-06:00

I Voted! I couldn't be more excited! I walked into the local High School at 12:45 and was out by 1:00. That even gave me time to sit down with a lady and have her call the Board of Elections because I was not on the books. This was the most stressful part. I got my approval and voted! That 15 minutes was one of the most amazing experiences of my life!

Part of me is so glad it's finally over. All the research, the political talk...It's over. The waiting game is much easier than the deciding game.

I spent a lot of time deciding who and what to vote for. I think I made a very informed decision that I am proud of. I didn't vote based on popularity, I voted for what I believe in. I knew my candidates and knew their beliefs. I knew what we stood for and based my vote off of that.

I have to say that regardless of whether or not my candidate wins, I will support our new President!

I hope everyone who is eligible to vote today gets out there and votes!

GO VOTE!

Unbelievable Deal at Victoria's Secret

2008-11-02T20:15:00.006-06:00

If you absolutly adore Victoria's Secret, run over to $20 for Charity Challenge and learn how to get 2 Sweaters, 2 Bras and a pair of VS Cotton panties for under $28.00 with shipping included.

If you can read really small print (oops) you can see I did it and it works!

THIS PARTICULAR DEAL HAS ENDED

If you didn't get a chance to do this deal there is still part of it going on. Check out Common Sense with Money or $20 Challenge for Charity to find out how to get 2 Bras and 1 Panty for $15.99 shipped! There is also a Lip Gloss promo going so make sure to snagged that if you can! Promo code RUSH08!!

Change is coming

2008-11-02T17:25:00.001-06:00

With what little time I have in the evenings I have been working on a new blog layout. If all goes as planned I'll be able to reveal it with my 100th post! I can't even believe I'm anywhere near 100 posts. I know most of the blogs I read surpassed that quite a bit ago but as usual I'm always a little behind and can't believe how time has flown by.

So, If you stop by and happen to see some crazy looking things it's just me attempting to get everything situated. It wont be anything special, just a nice little change :)

Walgreen's Deals for November

2008-11-02T15:31:00.001-06:00

Today was the first day of the November 2-8th Walgreen's sale. I got up early to get my purchases done because I knew this week was big for certain items. At first look the ad didn't look like much but when compared with Easy Saver Coupons and Coupons found in the last few Sunday papers I found some way to good to pass up deals. I found a deal on almost everything my family needed at the moment. Tea, Cough Drops, Razors, Toilet Paper etc...I didn't include everything in the picture. I left out the toilet paper and the newspapers.

First Transaction

(2) Women's Schick Quattro 3 pack Razors @ $5.99 each = $11.98
(2) Celestial Seasonings Tea Sale @ $1.50 each = $3.00
Almay One Coat Mascara = Sale BOGO $6.99
Almay Make-up Remover Pads = $5.99
(2) Walgreen's Brand Toilet Paper (used as filler) @ $1/1 = $2.00

Total Before Coupons and Rebates = $29.96

(2) Women's Schick Quattro 3 pack Razors
*Used BOGO Q
*Used (2) $3/1 ESQ
Final Price = FREE
(2) Celestial Seasonings Tea
*Used (2) $1/1 Manf Q
*Used $1/2 ESQ
Final Price = FREE
Almay One Coat Mascara = FREE After Rebate
Almay Make-up Remover Pads = FREE Almay BOGO
Walgreen's Brand Toilet Paper (used as filler) = $2.00

Total After Coupons and Rebates = $2.00 + Tax

Second Transaction

(2) Ricola Cherry Honey Cough Drops @ $2.49 each = $4.98
Men's Schick Quattro 3 pack Razors @ $5.99 each = $11.98
(4) Wrigley's Slim Pack Gum @ $1.19 each = $4.76
Walgreen's Brand Toilet Paper (used as filler) = $1
Sunday Paper (needed but was used as filler) = $1.50

Total Before Coupons = $24.22

(2) Ricola Cherry Honey Cough Drops
*Used $1/1 Manf Q
*Used $3/2 IVC Q in Wags Ad
Final Price = FREE
Men's Schick Quattro 3 pack Razors
*Used BOGO Q
*Used (2) $3/1 ESQ
Final Price = FREE
(4) Wrigley's Slim Pack Gum @ $1.19 each = $4.76
*Used (2) BOGO Q's
*Used (2) Wags In Ad BOGO Q
Final Price = FREE
Walgreen's Brand Toilet Paper (used as filler) = $1
Sunday Paper (needed but was used as filler) = $1.50

Total After Coupons = $2.50 + Tax

Third Transaction

(2) Celestial Seasonings Tea Sale @ $1.50 each = $3.00
(2) Women's Schick Quattro 3 pack Razors @ $5.99 each = $11.98
Sunday Paper = $1.50

Total Before Coupons = $16.48

(2) Celestial Seasonings Tea
*Used (1) $1/1 Manf Q
*Used $1/2 ESQ
Final Price = $1/2
(2) Women's Schick Quattro 3 pack Razors
*Used BOGO Q
*Used (2) $3/1 ESQ
Final Price = FREE
Sunday Paper = $1.50

Total After Coupons = $2.50 + tax

Fourth Transaction

(4) Women's Schick Quattro 3 pack Razors @ $5.99 each = $23.96
Men's TAG Body Spray = Sale $2.99
(2) Dawn Botanicals Dish Liquid @ $1.99 each = $3.89
(2) Glade Dewberry Scented Oil Candle Holder @ $3.99 Sale = $7.98
(2) Sunday Papers (needed but used as fillers) = $3.00

Total Before Coupons = $41.82

(4) Women's Schick Quattro 3 pack Razors
*Used (2) BOGO Manf Q's
*Used (4) $3/1 ES Q's
Final Price = FREE
Men's TAG Body Spray
*Used $1/1 Manf. Q 11/2 SS
Final Price = $1.99
(2) Dawn Botanicals Dish Liquid
*Used (2) .25/1 Manf. Q's 11/2 P&G
*Used (2) $1/1 IVC Q in Wags Ad
Final Price = $1.48/2
(2) Glade Dewberry Scented Oil Candle Holder
*Used BOGO Manf Q from 11/2 SS
*Used $2/1 Manf Q 11/2 SS
Final Price = $1.99/2
(2) Sunday Papers (needed but used as fillers) = $3.00

Total After Coupons = $8.46

Total for all 4 Transactions Before Coupons and Rebates = $112.48
Total Paid Out of Pocket for all 4 Transactions = $15.46 + Tax

Total Savings in one day = $97.02!!

If you are wondering why I got so many papers it's because it's the beginning of the month and this Sunday's paper was FILLED with really good coupons. I was able to match up a lot of the coupons with future sale ads so I made sure to get a bunch. They also make great fillers because heck, ya need them anyway and they more than pay for themselves!

I finally did it

2008-11-01T11:21:00.003-05:00

I just ordered the first book in Stephenie Meyer's, Twilight Series. How come it took me so long you ask when everyone on this planet is reading or has read this series? I'm always late on everything. I planned to order it weeks ago after the awesome reviews I read on Lisa's blog. I planned to order the whole series from Half.com and I had a coupon code I wanted to use but I forgot and it expired last night. Dang it. So I just ordered it of eBay. I almost bought the set. If I like the series I'll order the set in hardback to keep but for now I'm eagerly awaiting the first one. After all, I need to read it before the movie comes out, right?

Have you read the series? What did you think?

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T16:36:00.001-05:00

The Halloween decor is up, the pumpkins are finally carved. Yep, Last minute. Typical Bre. The Halloween candy has been put in the bowl and the kids can't wait to get ready to go Trick or Treating. We don't know what to expect because this is our first year Trick or Treating in a new neighborhood. We have always gone to MIL's in Ballwin and this year she is coming here. We'll see. I'm excited!

And of course Jack made an appearance this year. It's not Halloween without the Pumpkin King!

Look who is enjoying the nice weather....How Now Brown Cow is!

Happy Halloween Everyone!

Fall Back!

2008-10-31T14:00:00.001-05:00

Daylight Savings Ends November 2nd at 2:00 a.m. Don't forget to turn your clocks back one hour on Saturday Night/Sunday morning!

Walgreen's Black Friday Ad

2008-10-30T14:31:00.002-05:00

Walgreen's Black Friday ad has been posted!

NORELCO CORDLESS RAZOR 7310
Sale $29.00 Reg. $57.99

REMINGTON FOIL CODE SHAVER
Sale $14.99 Reg. $29.99

REMINGTON TITANIUM PERSONAL GROOMER PG250
Sale $9.99 Reg. $19.99

YES TO CARROTS BODY BUTTER 8.45 OZ
Sale $1.99 Reg. $12.99

WALGREENS SHIATSU MASSAGE CUSHION
Sale $39.99 Reg. $69.99

HANNAH MONTANA ELECT GUITAR
Sale $14.99 Reg. $24.99

HANNAH MONTANA HOLIDAY DOLL AST.
Sale $9.99 Reg. $19.99

G-FORCE MICRO HELICOPTER
Sale $9.99 Reg. $19.99

4-FOOT POTTED TREE
Sale $9.99 Reg. $19.99

WEBKINZ LILKINZ PETS
Sale $3.49 Reg. $6.99

WIRELESS SPORTS VIDEO GAME
Sale $19.99 Reg. $49.99

PATRIOT CANDLE 20 OZ - B1G2FREE 3/7.99
Sale $2.33 Reg. $7.99

HOME ELEMENTS ELECTRIC GRIDDLE
Sale $19.99 Reg. $29.99

HOME ELEMENTS 17PC BLENDING SYSTEM
Sale $19.99 Reg. $29.99

SIGNATURE CLASSICS DEEP FRYER
Sale $19.99 Reg. $29.99

NEXTAR GPS NAVIGATION SYSTEM M3-02
Sale $89.99 Reg. $159.99

VENTURER 10" LCD DIGITAL TV
Sale $119.99 Reg. $179.99

SYLVANIA 2.8" TOUCH SCREEN 4GB MP3/MP4 PLAYER
Sale $59.99 Reg. $99.99

KODAK C913 DIGITAL CAMERA
Sale $79.99 Reg. $109.99

AIPTEK A-HD CAMCORDER
Sale $99.99 Reg. $119.99

SANDISK MEMORY CARD SD 2GB
Sale $9.99 Reg. $34.99

FOSTER GRANT READER GLASSES TITANIUM T4 125
Sale $9.33 Reg. $27.99

FOSTER GRANT READER GLASSES SP OXFORD 175
Sale $3.33 Reg. $9.99

FOSTER GRANT READER GLASSES CORE REPORTER 150
Sale $6.66 Reg. $19.99

FOSTER GRANT READER GLASSES HAND MADE 11 150
Sale $9.99 Reg. $29.99

FOSTER GRANT READER GLASSES FASHION DECO 150
Sale $4.99 Reg. $14.99

WALGREEN'S DOOR BUSTER DEALS FOUND HERE!!

Remember ads are subject to change this early in the game.

Courtesy of I Heart Wags and Hot Coupon World!

It's Almost Black Friday! Er....I mean Thanksgiving....

2008-10-30T13:30:00.003-05:00

Black Friday is under 30 days away. Black Friday, otherwise known as the day after Thanksgiving, is the unofficial start to the Holiday Shopping Season. This year it's November 28th.

It's no secret I go every year. I get ALL my shopping done on this day with the exception of wrapping paper and stocking stuffers. Frankly I like to just be done with it. No worries, no stress. Our cars hate the cold so if something goes wrong with them I'm not worried about throwing gifts on our credit cards.

I go to bed early and get up at about 4 a.m. and head out. I wear warm clothes, tennis shoes and do not carry my purse. I put everything I need in my coat pocket that buttons. I don't grab a cart unless I know I'm going to be getting a lot of stuff at that particular store. I chat with other shoppers in line and try and make it as pleasant as possible. I do all my research beforehand and keep a small list with me. I go the night before and scour each store to find out exactly where everything is placed. If I have a question on where something will be I find someone stocking shelves and ask them nicely. Usually they are more than happy to help. Certain stores open at different times and I plan my trip accordingly. I usually go to Kohl's first because they open the earliest and JC Penney's last because they open the latest.

There is a lot of talk about the deals stores will have for us this year. Some say due to the economy this year won't be as good as years past. Some say this year will be better. I guess we will have to wait and see. I know I'm curious!

There are tons of people who do not take advantage of BF Sales each year due to the craziness. I have had very few encounters with crazy people. VERY FEW and they were mild. If you plan well, are quick on your feet and aren't going for the big ticket items like the TV's then it's rather stress free. You can go in a group and you can go alone. Lots of stores also offer online deals and bonanzas on Black Friday. Some offer online only specials that can be better than in store deals. So don't completely cross out Black Friday shopping!

Slowly BF ads are being leaked and I'll post them as I get them. You can also visit these BF websites to get your Black Friday deals:

Black Friday.info
Bfads.net
Black Friday @ Gotta Deal

Will you be partaking in the madness this year? If you so make sure to stuff yourself with turkey and go to bed early!

Final October Haul

2008-10-30T12:32:00.003-05:00

Stick a fork in me....I am DONE! Done with October that is. I need a break. With Halloween coming up tomorrow and all the work we have to do around the house this weekend there will be no more coupon clipping, matching, organizing or shopping trips. Granted I only went shopping twice this week but I'm still exhausted.

I didn't bother to bring out all the Coffee Mate from my fridge that I bought. It was on clearance at Target $3/2 and I had a bunch of $1/1 coupons. I bought 10 bottles. Hope they don't go bad. Maybe I can freeze them?

This last haul was excellent because I finally was able to get some things to donate. Up until now it's been a stockpile mission to get our family stocked. I upped my purchase on Sunday papers by one last Sunday and bought 3. Inside were coupons for Ascensia Glucose Meters for up to $30.00. I initially put them in my sell/trade/donate pile but quickly took them out when I realized that Walgreen's had these very meters for $9.99! They are regularly $59.99. One of the meters and a bunch of the tissue isn't pictured. We are all sick so I put boxes all over the house and I gave a meter to my Diabetic Daddy :) He needed a new one!

Here are my Transactions broken down:

First Transaction

Ascensia Breeze2 Meter = Sale $9.99
(2) Puffs Tissues = $1.99 each
Loreal Age Perfect Pro-Calcium Moisterizer = $19.99 (FAR Item)

Total before Coupons and Rebates = $33.96
Ascensia Breeze2 Meter: used up to $30 Q from 10/26 paper = FREE
(2) Puffs Tissues: Used $1/1 IVC (in ad 7 day coupon that takes $1 off for each product) + (2) .25/1 = $.74 each
Loreal Age Perfect Pro-Calcium Moisturizer: used $2/1 SS 10/5 (q good at wags only) = $2 OVERAGE

Total After Coupons and Rebates = $1.48

Second Transaction

Ascensia Contour Meter = Sale $9.99
(2) Puffs Tissues = $1.99 each
(3) Pert Plus 2/1 Happy Medium = $3.49 each

Total Before Coupons = $20.95

Ascensia Contour Meter: used up to $30 Q from 10/26 paper = FREE
(2) Puffs Tissues: Used $1/1 IVC (in ad 7 day coupon that takes $1 off for each product) + (2) .25/1 = $.74 each
(3) Pert Plus 2/1 Happy Medium: used $2.50/1 ESQ + $1/1 printable = FREE

Total After Coupons = $1.48

Third Transaction

Ascensia Contour Meter = Sale $9.99
(2) Puffs Tissues = $1.99 each
(2) Palmolive Oxy Dish Liquid = $1.99 each

Total Before Coupons = $17.95

Ascensia Contour Meter: used up to $30 Q from 10/26 paper = FREE
(2) Puffs Tissues: Used $1/1 IVC (in ad 7 day coupon that takes $1 off for each product) + (2) .25/1 = $.74 each
(2) Palmolive Oxy Dish Liquid: Used $1/1 IVC (in ad 7 day) + (2) .25/1 SS or RP 10/26 = $.74 each

Total After Coupons = $2.96

Total Savings for all 3 trips: $70.43!!

I'll be donating the other 2 meters and the Pert because I already have a ton. I'm sending the Loreal to my Mom and giving the extra tissue to family :)

I have my trip for the 2nd all planned out and should be sharing it soon. This will by far be the biggest haul to date. I plan to donate some things too. How exciting!

Want to see more Drugstore Savings? Visit the "Cent"sible Sawyer's Drug Store Diva's!

Organization is Key

2008-10-28T21:28:00.003-05:00

Lately I have been getting a lot of questions about how I organize my coupon stash. Up until recently the answer was little envelopes. I had a set of little white 4x5 envelopes stuffed with coupons and labeled. I had a separate larger envelope for my printed coupons because they were to big for my little ones. When asked if I thought it was a good system I said "No way"!

Honestly, there may have been a point where I thought my little envelopes were going to be all I needed. That thought is LONG gone. My coupon collection has grown and I'm expecting about 100 more that I bought on eBay this week. Also, my little envies were ripped and torn and I lost coupons all the time.

Last weekend I made a very big transition over to the Accordion File method. I chose this method simply because I did not want to have to go out and buy a binder for the Binder Method. I had this accordion file already and wasn't using it. I think I bought it for around $4 a few months ago. When I start becoming a little better at this and start to save a little more I might move over to a binder method. The whole point of cutting coupons is to save money and if I'm just spending it somewhere else what's the point?

To go along with the file folder I purchased a small spiral notebook, small colored Post It's, a few RSVP pens which are my favorite pens ever and a package of 25 clear page protectors. I tried to find baseball card protectors but couldn't find them so I settled on these for now. I can use them to store whole sheets of un-clipped coupons when I move over to the binder method. I had the envies leftover from my old method.

The total cost of everything including the file folder was about $10 but it's seriously priceless.

Inside the binder has 13 tabbed sections. They are broken down as follows:

1. VIP Coupons: I store my Post It's, notebook, pens , scissors and all my very important coupons here. Before I hit the store I plan my trip and pull out any coupons I plan on using and store them in this pocket so I can quickly reference them during my trip. If I see something on sale that wasn't in the ad and I have a coupon for it, I pull it out and stick it here too. Then when I check out I just hand the cashier my pile.

2. Walgreen's Section: My Easy Saver Books go here along with the current ad and any Register Rewards. I keep my receipts for Walgreen's at home because if I lost this folder I cannot claim my rebate items.
3. Walmart: Same thing as Walgreen's. I keep the current ad if I plan to shop here that week and any coupons that may match up with sales.
4. Target: I keep an envie with Target only coupons I find in ads along with their weekly ad. I shop here just as much as Walgreen's so this is a very important section. Anything Target related such as $5/$25 coupons and such go here along with recent receipts.
5. Grocery: Anything grocery store related goes here same as with the others. I keep my Schnuck's $5/$25 here and recent ads for all the stores I visit.

6 Through 12 is broken down as follows:
6. ABCD
7. EFGH
8. IJKL
9. MNOP
10. QRSTU
11. VWXYZ

Each section is filled with envies and page protectors that have been labeled with sticky notes and arranged in alphabetical order. Such as the section labeled ABCD is broken down like this:

Baking, Bread, Cereal, Candy etc....

Some sections are even broken down further into product brands:

Air Wick, Campbells, Dove, Dial, Glade, Oust etc...

Also, the Yellow sticky notes are for Food Items and the Pink for None Food Items.

Now Section 13 holds envies filled with other random coupons such as Super Cuts, Dave & Busters, Chuck E Cheese's, Restaurant Coupons like McDonald's etc...

The Notebook is very important as it lists my final shopping list and scenarios for each store, each week. I stick a sticky note on each page and note what store and for what week. Each page has a list and each list is broken down to include what coupons I will match up and how many, sale price, final price etc...Kind of like this:

Walgreen's November 2-8:
Celestial Seasonings Tea: Sale Price $3/2
Buy 2
* Use ESQ $1/2
* Use (2) Man. Q $1/1
Final Price: FREE

This helps so that I am doing very minimal math inside the store. Getting in and out is best.

There is no wrong or right way when creating a coupon organizer. My best advice is arrange it based upon how YOU think. Whether it be alphabetically, by expiration date, only by brand name, by product ie: Health or Beauty etc...

Having a way to store and organize your coupons is key because if your like me it can get very confusing when you do get into a store and begin your process. You can forget items, misplace coupons and just lose it altogether. Having a system makes things much easier and a lot quicker.

Here are a few other Bloggers with amazing Coupon Organizers so be sure to check them out!

Rachel at Out of the Overflow
Money Saving Mom
Thrifty and Chic Mom
Nichole at A Call to Higher Places
Deni at Far More Than Diamonds
Laura from Laura Williams' Musings

Restaurant.com $25 Gift Card for $2

2008-10-28T20:39:00.001-05:00

Now through Halloween Restaurant.com is offering $25 Gift Cards for $2! I know a few of my blog readers are huge foodies and love to eat out so I thought I would give everyone a heads up about this awesome deal.

It's Simple. Go to Restaurant.com and chose your restaurant(s). Add the gift certificates into your cart in amounts of $25. Enter the code TREATS at checkout and use the gift certificate code generated to select and print out your certificate(s)!!

Take special note to read the requirements of the restaurant you are choosing. Some require a $35 + minimum and or add gratuity. It just depends but make sure you check it out before you buy.

Thank You to Deal Seeking Mom for all this info!

I'm slowly shifting....

2008-10-28T10:58:00.001-05:00

Has anyone else noticed the shift that's been going on with this blog? I created it mainly to talk all about our investment ventures and our family and lately it's become all about my adventures of becoming frugal and our family. I like where this blog is heading and my subscriber number and daily visits are increasing so there seem to be some bloggers who like it too!

Of course with all the change that's still going on with our home I will be posting about it too but for now I think I just need a break from the constant concern over my house and I need to focus on other things.

We are planning a joint investment venture for the middle of next year but that's just so far away right now.

I have even toyed with the idea of bringing back She Cooks in Stiletto's. I have been cooking and even baking ::gasp:: a lot more lately. I've been taking pictures just in case I ever decide I can handle 2 blogs again. It's just something I'm thinking about....Who knows ;)

Doing any baking next month?

2008-10-27T21:40:00.001-05:00

I was scanning the Hot Coupon World boards and noticed that for the week of November 9th (9th thru the 15th) Walgreen's is running a sale on Libby's 100% Pure Canned Pumpkin.

$.99 for Libby's Canned Pumpkin 15 oz. (Limit of 2)
You can use the $1/2 printable found here
Note: You need to register and be logged in for your coupons to print.

Final Price: $.50 per can

Now, don't forget to hit the back button to get your coupon twice! You can always stop in later on during the sale and grab a couple more cans :)

Walgreen's November Easy Saver

2008-10-26T16:19:00.001-05:00

So the November catalog is out and so far it's looking pretty sad. Only 2 FAR items listed this month.

Loreal Age Perfect Pro-Calcium Radiance Prefector $19.99 (Limit of 1)
and
Almay One Coat Mascara $6.99 (Limit of 1)

Yep, measly huh?

After looking over the rest of the ES catalog I see a few deals I might be able to snag stacking manufacturer coupons from the paper with ES coupons and hopefully sales. Weekly Register Reward deals might be our only hope this month. We shall see!

I have to say that this month would be a great month for beginners. Walgreen's has been pretty generous with their $5 off $20 purchase and we have been seeing them almost weekly.

Here is a very simple Money Making Scenario:

Loreal Age Perfect Pro-Calcium Radiance Prefector = $19.99
*Use $2/1 from Smart Source 10/5
Note: There is also a coupon for $2/1 Loreal Skincare product that I got in a Walgreen's/Loreal ad. Coupon is good only at Walgreen's and will make your overage $2 more. If you have it, stack it and throw in a filler if needed.

Final Price = Free Plus $2 Overage After Coupon and Rebate + 10% bonus of added if gift card!

Almay One Coat Mascara = $6.99
*Use $1/1 from Smart Source 8/3 or 9/14

Final Price = Free Plus $1 Overage After Coupon and Rebate + 10% bonus if added to gift card!

Now if you use the $5 off $20 purchase you are going to make a total of $8 + in overage! It can't get any easier than that!

Edited to add: If you can wait for the November 2-8th sales to come out Almay products are B1G1 Free so you would be getting 2 products for free instead of one!

Thank You to I Heart Wags
for coupon matching!