I Clip You Save: Learn my money-saving techniques!

Threat of the first freeze!

2011-10-18T17:11:00.000-05:00

Tonight is the threat of the first freeze. With this, I thought that I would post of pictures of the produce that I have picked from my garden this year. The first is today's harvest.

Watermelon, spinach, rutabaga, radishes, cherry tomatoes, tomatoes, green bell peppers, leaf lettuce

Radishes, tomatoes, squash, bell peppers, mini red hot peppers

Radishes, squash, bell pepper, tomatoes, canteloupe

Squash, tomatoes, yellow and green bell peppers, red hot peppers, radishes, watermelon and pumpkin

watermelon, canteloupe, cucumber, tomatoes, red hot peppers, green beans

Canteloupe, squash, cucumber, zucchini, red hot peppers, cherry tomatoes, green beans

Canteloupe, bell peppers, cucumber, tomatoes, squash, zucchini

watermelon, bell peppers, corn, tomatoes, hot peppers, squahs, cucumbers

And pretty much from July through now, this is what my counter in my kitchen has looked like!

I just wanted to share because I think that this is a great way to save a ton of money and to eat better. We never once ran out of fresh fruits and vegetables to eat with our meals, as snacks, and to give away to friends and family. The garden did excellent this year. And it really isn't nearly as time consuming as people think. After spending a good part of the day planting, really I just spend about 10 minutes per day picking what's ready, spot weeding, and checking things out for bugs or diseases. Every couple weeks I'll spend a couple hours in the garden thoroughly weeding, but it's not all that often. My short daily checks take care of most of it. Not only did we eat very fresh and healthy all summer, but we now have a frozen veggies and jars of salsa to enjoy all winter!

Freebie Roundup!

2011-04-19T13:54:00.000-05:00

I haven't posted a freebie roundup for awhile!

Check out carolinaherrera.com for a Free Carolina Herrera fragrance sample!

Go to http://valuesforhealth.com/ for 9 printable coupons - one for $3/1 KY which makes it free at Walmart!

Taster's Choice is offering a sample pack here: http://www.tasterschoice.com/varietysample.aspx?source=10084746

Always nice to have some Emergen-C on hand! Go here: http://www.emergenc.com/free-samples for a sample!

P&G Brandsaver has a new Tampax freebie here: https://www.pgeverydaysolutions.com/pgeds/tampax/brandsampler-login.jsp

It told me there were out, but offered a free sample of Head & Shoulders, Prilosec + a $1/1 Coupon for Cheer!

Try Lactaid here: https://www.lactaid.com/freesamplesoffer/Dietary+Supplements

And last by not least:

Garnier Fructis samples here: http://instoresnow.walmart.com/enhancedrendercontent_ektid97078.aspx

And these samples do arrive. This week I have received a coupon for a free pack of Orbit gum (from the flip flop offer, the flip flops are still on the way), free Tide Stain Release 10pk, free sample size Tide detergent, Oxy samples & coupons, and a free Victoria Secret panty coupon (just for being on the mailing list)! I love getting all the goodies in the mail!

Get a FREE Earth Day shirt for pledging to go green with your laundry!

2011-04-18T09:04:00.000-05:00

This offer is geared towards college students, but anyone can participate as far as I can tell.

Just go to the site, watch the short video about how to GREEN your laundry routine

& fill out the form for a free Tshirt!

Here's the link: http://www.campusclothesline.com/

Free TREE from Lowe's on Earth Day 4/23

2011-04-18T08:55:00.000-05:00

Go to Lowe's on 4/23 to get a FREE tree to celebrate Earth Day!

http://www.lowes.com/cd_Earth+Day_817240224_

Hot Slim Jim Amazon Deal - 100 for $14.17

2011-04-18T08:50:00.000-05:00

100 Slim Jim's for $14.17 with free super saver shipping!

I ordered 2 to get the free shipping so my total was over $25.00.

I know they aren't the healthiest thing in the world, but we like them as a treat on the run!

Just go to: Amazon for the deal!

Price Chopper Matchups: 4/13 - 4/19

2011-04-14T21:38:00.000-05:00

Go to http://www.pennypinchinmom.com/2011/04/price-chopper-weekly-matchups-04-13-04-19/ for a complete list!

The best deals that I see are:

El Monterey Burritos or Chimichangas, 10/$10 or $1 each
Use $1/1 El Monterey Mexican Snacks 3/6/2011 RP Insert (exp 5/30/2011)
Final Price: FREE

Old Orchard Juice, 64 oz, 2/$3 or $1.50 each
Use $0.50/1 Old Orchard Juice Product
Final Price: $1

Tyson Chicken or Steak Strips, 2/$5 or $2.50 each
Use $1/1 Tyson Bagged Breaded Chicken Strips 1/23/2011 SS Insert (exp 4/30/2011)
or use $1/1 Tyson Grilled & Ready Chicken Fillets/Strips
Final Price: $1.50 each

Hy-Vee Matchups 04/13 - 04/19

2011-04-14T21:33:00.000-05:00

Check out http://www.pennypinchinmom.com/2011/04/hyvee-weekly-matchups-04-13-04-19/ for the complete list.

The best deals I see are:

Eggo Waffles, 3/$5 or $1.67 each Use $0.75/2 Eggo Frozen Product 3/13/2011 RP Insert (exp 5/8/2011) Final Price: 2/$2.59 or $1.30 each

Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables, 10 – 16 oz, 3/$3 or $1 each
Use $1/3 Birds Eye & Steamfresh Varieties
or use $0.50/2 Birds Eye Products 3/20/2011 SS Insert (exp 5/15/2011)
or use $1/3 Birds Eye Product 3/20/2011 SS Insert (exp 5/15/2011)
Final Price: As low as 3/$2 or $0.67 each

Kellogg’s Cereal: Rice Krispies, Foot Loops, Apple Jacks, Corn Pops or Frosted Flakes, 4/$10 or $2.50 each
Kellogg’s Pop Tars 12 ct, $2.88
In-ad coupon: Purchase any 4 of these cereals or 12 ct Pop Tarts and receive $4 off of gallon of milk
Use $1.50/3 Kellogg’s Cereals 4/10/2011 RP Insert (exp 5/22/2011)
or use $1/2 Kellogg’s Cereal 3/6/2011 RP Insert (exp 4/17/2011)
or use $1/3 Kellogg’s PopTart Products 3/6/2011 RP Insert (exp 5/1/2011)
or use $1/1 Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes
or use $1/2 Kellogg’s Rice or Cocoa Krispies
Final Price: As low as 4/$8 or $2 each plus FREE milk

Dillons 4/13: Saved 83% buying cleaning supplies, Danimals & Powerbars

2011-04-14T12:53:00.000-05:00

I purchased:

4 Soft Scrub Total @ $3.19 each = $12.76

4 Swiffer Sweeper refills @ $3.99 each = $15.96

8 Lysol Neutra Air @ $2.49 each = $19.92

4 Danimals Coolision @ $1.29 each = $5.16

3 Danimals Smoothie @ $1.99 each = $5.97

1 Private Selection Ice cream @ $4.99

3 Finish dishwasher cleaner @ $2.69 each = $8.07

4 Suave deodorant @ $.88 each = $3.52

1 Country Bob’s @ $3.35

4 Olay soap @ $2.19 = $8.76

1 McCormick spice pack @ $1.50

2 Skittles @ $.50 each = $1

2 Starburst @ $.50 each = $1

10 Powerbar products @ $1 each = $10

Subtotal before coupons = $101.96

Received 4 $4 discounts for the cleaning promotion = -$16

Used 4 $1/1 Soft Scrub Qs = -$4

Used 2 BOGO free Swiffer Qs = -3.99x2 = -$7.98

Used 8 $1.50/1 Lyson Neutra Air Qs = -$12

Used 7 $.55/1 Danimals which doubled to $1 = -$7

Used 1 Free Private Selection Dillons coupon = -$4.99

Used 3 $1.50/1 Finish dishwasher cleaner peelie coupons = -$4.50

Used 4 $.50/1 Suave deodorant coupons which doubled to $.88 = -$3.52

Used 1 Free Country Bob Q = -$3.35

Used 4 $2/1 Olay Qs = -$8

Used 1 $1/1 McCormick spices Q = -$1

Used 2 $1/2 Skittles/Starburst Qs = -$2

Used 10 $.50/1 Powerbar product Qs which doubled to $1 = -$10

Total coupons/discounts used: $84.34

Subtotal = $17.62

Sales tax = $5.51

Total =$23.13

4/12 Dillons Trip, my $.83 subtotal!

2011-04-12T21:10:00.000-05:00

I had to pick up the kiddo from track practice, so I ran in to Dillons which is just 2 blocks away!

I purchased:

14 boxes Purina One Beyond cat food (sorry, a couple didn’t make the pic) $2.99 ea = $41.86

19 bottles Ajax (sorry, a couple didn’t make the pic) $.99 each = $18.81

4 bottles Windex $2.79 each = $11.16

4 packages Olay soap $2.19 each = $8.76

30 Snickers eggs $.50 each = $15

1 Danimals $.99

1 bag apples $.99

5 ears of corn $.40 each = $2

8 packages 5 gum $1.49 each = $11.92

4 bags Skittles (disappeared quickly by said kiddo I picked up) $.50 each = $2

Subtotal before coupons = 113.49

Received $4 off for buying the 4 Windex - $4

Coupons used:

14 Free Purina One Beyond coupons = - $41.86

19 $.50/1 Ajax doubled to $.99 = -$18.81

4 $.55/1 Windex Multi-Surface doubled to $1 = - $4

4 $2/1 Olay soap = -$8

15 $1/2 Mars Easter candy = -$15

1 $.50/1 Danimals doubled to $.99 = -$.99

4 $1/2 5 gum = -$4

2 $1/2 Skittles = -$2

7 $2/1 Your next purchase coupons (from Purina) = -$14

Subtotal after coupons = $.83

Sales tax = $8.67

Total = $9.49

Received back $5 off gift card coupon (for the $15 in Mars candy purchase)

4/9 Sunfresh Trip, just $19.49!

2011-04-12T21:05:00.000-05:00

I purchased:

4 Yakisoba noodles @ $.89 each = $3.56

1 hamburger buns @ $2.19

1 hotdog buns @ $2.19

27 KC Masterpiece BBQ sauce @ $1.00 each = $27.00

75 Kool-Aids @ 12/$1.00 = $6.35

10 Laffy Taffy @ $.69 each = $6.90

1 Baby carrots @ $2.45

2 Kraft Shreed Cheese with a touch of Philadelphia @ $1.89 each

4 Kraft Philadelphia cooking crèmes @ $2.19 each = $8.76

3 Franks red hot sauce @ $1.19 each = $3.57

10 Suave deoderants @ $.99 each = $9.90

12 Pillsbury Grands biscuits @ $.99 (1 exploded in the bag!) = $11.88

1 Dole Italian blend salad @ $2.50

1 head of lettuce @ $.99

7 Simply Apple Juice $1.00 each = $7

8 Simply Orange Juice @ $1.00 each = $8

2 Bar-S hotdogs @ $1.00 each = $2

1 pack hamburgers @ $4.12

Subtotal before coupons = $111.25

Coupons used

4 $.50/1 Yakisoba doubled to $.89 = $3.56

27 $.50/1 KC Masterpiece doubled to $1 = $27

5 Buy 10 Get 5 free KoolAid = scanned at $1.25 each = $6.25

10 $.50/5 KoolAid coupons = $5

5 $1/2 Laffy Taffy = $5

2 $1.00/1 Kraft cheese w/a touch of Philadelphia = $2

4 $1.50/1 Philadelphia cooking crème = $6

3 $.50/1 Franks red hot doubled to $1 = $3

10 $.50/1 Suave deodorant doubled to $1 = $10

4 $.40/3 Grands biscuits doubled to $.80/3 = $3.20

1 $.75/1 Dole Salad = $.75

15 $.50/1 Simply 12.5 oz = $15

1 $1/2 Bar-S = $1

$4 in SunFresh cash coupons = $4

Total coupons used = $91.76

Total after coupons = $19.49

Total Savings 82%

I’m happy paying $19.49 for a good summer’s supply of bbq sauce (we grill a LOT), a month supply of juice, a 2 months’ supply of biscuits, plus some cheese, cooking crèmes and hot sauce. Also, we were headed to the lake later in the day with family, so I was able to pick up the hamburgers, hotdogs, buns, carrots, lettuce and salad for that trip. And I’ll have the kool-aid and suave to donate. The laffy taffy will probably go in Easter baskets or be donated as well.

Not too shabby!

Sorry...long time without posts

2011-04-12T20:37:00.000-05:00

I guess it's just the time of year where life gets busy! Sorry I haven't been around. I'm hoping to get more posts going again!

Great Printable $4/4 Betty Crocker or Chex products

2011-03-19T20:48:00.000-05:00

Some printable coupons you just have to print!

Go to http://www.savingsforsmartshoppers.com/coupons.html to print

this $4.00 off 4 Chex & Betty Crocker items.

It is a manufacturers coupon so you should be able to use it anywhere without

any problems, not just at Winco foods.

Free $5 for Craftsman Tools!

2011-03-19T20:40:00.000-05:00

Awesome deal right now!

Just go to Craftsman and enroll in the Craftsman club (it's free!)

and you will get $5 in Craftsman tool cash!!

SWEET!!

Awesome Target beauty bag FREE!

2011-03-06T15:51:00.000-06:00

Just click here to get this beauty bag filled with samples free!!

Beauty Bag

New Walmart Coupon Policy - OVERAGE ALLOWED!!

2011-03-04T16:13:00.000-06:00

Walmart has released a new official coupon policy. It clearly states that overage will be given to the customer if a coupon is used on a product that is for more than the selling price of the item!!

Walmart Coupon Policy

Walmart accepts the following types of coupons (see guidelines below):

Manufacturers' coupons
Print-at-home internet coupons
- Must be legible, have "Manufacturer Coupon" printed on them, have a valid remit address for the manufacturer, valid expiration date, and have a scannable bar code.
Competitors' coupons that feature a specific item for a specified price
- for example, $2.99
Soft drink container caps
Checkout coupons
- (also called "Catalinas") that are printed at our competitors' registers, have "Manufacturer Coupon" with specific requirements printed on them, a valid remit address for the manufacturer, valid expiration date, and a scannable bar code.

Walmart does not accept the following coupons:

Print-at-home Internet coupons that require no purchase
Competitors' coupons for dollars/cents or percentage off, buy one get one free, and double- or triple-value coupons

The following are guidelines and limitations:

Only one coupon per item is permitted.
Coupons must have an expiration date and be redeemed prior to expiration.
Coupons may exceed the price of the item. Change may be given or applied toward the cost of the basket purchase.
Walmart only accepts coupons for merchandise that we sell.
Coupons must be presented at the time of purchase.
We accept the following with Customer Service Supervisor/Management approval:
- 40 or more coupons
- Any coupon over $20
- $50 or more in coupons in one transaction

Here's it on their site: http://walmartstores.com/7655.aspx
I recommend printing this & having it with you when you go there.

TOPEKA,KS readers: Quiznos - Just pay $4 for a $10 Gift Certificate

2011-03-03T09:34:00.000-06:00

Awesome Groupon today!

Pay $4 for a $10 Gift Certificate

to any of the 3 Quiznos in Topeka, KS!

Expires 12/31/11

I purchased mine!

Here's the link: Quiznos deal

2 Movie Tickets for $9! TODAY ONLY!

2011-03-02T10:11:00.000-06:00

Awesome deal today through Living Social. I've purchased several of Tanga's daily deals & have been very happy with them.

Today they are offering 2 Movie Tickets through Fandango.com for just $9.

When was the last time you went to the movies for just $4.50 each?

Just click here: Living Social

I've been holding on to a gift card to the movies for awhile. Combined with this deal & I'll get even more for my money!

Freebie Roundup!

2011-03-01T19:11:00.000-06:00

Check out these links for freebies:

HealthiDent Dental Treats for dogs

Click Here!

Eucerin (Facebook offer)

Click Here!

Kotex

Click Here!

Kirkland Signature Household Wipes

Click Here!

Sore No More! Natural Pain Relieving Gel

Click Here!

Meal Planning

2011-03-01T15:22:00.000-06:00

I'm a huge stockpiler. At my house, we could easily not go to the grocery store for a month & be fine. We would need milk and fresh fruits. But overall my grocery budget could shrink to $20 per week and we probably wouldn't notice. That being said, I find myself going to the store on the way home from work to pick something up for dinner that night because I didn't plan ahead & now everything is frozen. Or because I acted on a craving for a certain vegetable or main course. I've decided to try meal planning. I made out this weeks dinners based on what I had in the freezer/pantry and what I bought fresh over the weekend.

Here's my mealplan. Hopefully I can stick to this & really save some more money.

Notice that on days I have any seafood/fish that there is also another meat - this is because I love seafood but nobody else is a huge fan. I try to keep everyone happy!

Target 2/21: A little bit of everything, but it only cost $1.02

2011-02-23T22:34:00.000-06:00

1 Valentine’s hearts @ $.82

4 Valentine’s suckers @ $.19

1 Valentine group suckers @ $.29

10 Goodlife cat food @ $.77 - $1.50/1 Q

3 Edy’s ice cream @ $1.02

4 Skinny Cow ice cream @ $1.02

7 Banquet chicken or turkey pot pie @ $.64

7 Banquet dinners @ $.84

2 Tom Collins mix (clearance) @ $1.44

2 Wolfgang Puck soup @ $1.99 - $1/1 Man Q - $1/1 Target Q

7 Market Pantry frozen juice concentrate @ $.87

9 Eveready batteries @ $1 - $1/1 Man Q

Subtotal = $21.02

Received back 4 $5 gift cards for the 28 frozen items

Cost $1.02!!

Target 2/21: Stock up on Finish, Kelloggs, Skippy & Quaker!

2011-02-23T22:31:00.000-06:00

5 Quaker Oatmeal @ $3.24 - $1/1 Target Q - $1/1 Man Q = $1.24 each

9 Finish dishwasher tabs @ $2.50 - $2.25 Man Q = $.25 each

6 Brach’s hearts @ $.22 each

7 Banquet dinners @ $.84 each (Received back $5 gift card)

8 Skippy peanut butter @ $1.89 - $1/1 Man Q - $1/2 Target Q = $.39 each

4 Kellogg’s Crunchy Nut cereal @ $2.99 - $1/1 Man. Q - $1/1 Target Q (adj to $.99) = $.99 each

3 Sweethearts @ $.22 each

Total after coupons = $23.39 + I received a $5 Target gift card, so cost was actually $18.39.

2/22 Hyvee Manager Specials + Box Tops for the school!

2011-02-23T22:23:00.000-06:00

22 Ziploc bags @ $.99 each (4 missing from pic, must still be in the car!) = $21.78

12 Chi-Chi’s salsa @ $.59 each = $7.08

6 Chi-Chi’s tortillas @ $.59 each = $3.54

6 Oat Revolution oatmeal @ 3/$1 = $2

Subtotal = $34.40

Used 11 $1/2 Ziploc - $11

Used 12 $.50/1 Chi-Chi’s salsa - $6

Used 6 $.50/1 Chi-Chi’s tortillas - $3

Subtotal after coupons = $14.40

Received back:

7 $2 OYNO from Ziploc! = $14

Final cost = $.40!!!

Also received:

2 $5 Bonus Box Top Certificates for the school!

Don't have coupons? But want to get on this week's sales? Here's step-by-step instructions!

2011-02-23T10:45:00.000-06:00

I'll teach you to buy 73 items for $4.17 this week!

Are you just starting to “coupon” and don’t have very many coupons? Here’s step-by-step instructions how you can go out & buy 16 Banquet meals, 12 Banquet fruit pies, 32 Chefboyardee, 2 Banquet chicken nuggets (big bags!), 2 Banquet Brown ‘N Serve sausage, 3 Kraft BBQ sauce, 1 2-liter Coca-Cola and 5 Hunts ketchup for $4.17 without having any coupons to start with!

Too good to be true? I’m going to do this exact scenario I put together on Thursday & I’ll post my results to show you the proof. To make this scenario work, you must do it this week while the sales are happening.

Step 1.) Go to Target

Target is having a great frozen food sale right now. When you buy any 7 frozen items, you get back a $5 gift card. *Note, this is a regional sale so make sure yours is participating first.

There are specially marked Banquet meals say on the front bottom right corner – Save $4 on Great brands! These are the ones you want.

Buy 7 specially marked Banquet meals @ $.84 each x 7 = $5.88 - $5GC = $.88 or $.13 each.

Step 2.) Cut out the $.40/2 Banquet Fruit pies Qs & go back to target. (Honestly, I’d just do this in the parking lot. You don’t really need the boxes anyway – just take the meal from the box & cut out the coupons)

Step 3.) Go back to Target

Buy 12 Banquet fruit pies & 9 more banquet meals. You can do 1 transaction if you don’t mind a higher OOP (out of pocket) & just use the $5 gift card from step 1 to pay & pay the rest yourself, but get back 3 more $5 gift cards. Or split it up in 3 identical transactions like this to minimize cost:

Each transaction:

4 Fruit pies @ $.64 each

3 Banquet meals @ $.84 each

Subtotal = $5.08 – 2 $.40/2 Q = $4.28

Pay with previous gift card from step 1

Receive back $5. You just made $.72!

So in the end, you paid $12.84 & received back $15 in gift cards. So you have a profit of $2.16.

Note: You have to split up the transactions this way because to earn each $5 gift card, your total of the 7 items must be at least $5. Or you can pay all at once & get the gift cards back. Your OOP would be $7.84 (assuming you use the first $5 GC) and you’d have $15 in gift cards to spend later. Same result, just a higher initial investment. Worried about the time, or line at the register, or how you'll look if you do 4 transactions? Don't! If you're organized, it will go very quickly. Paying with the gift cards are fast! And usually people are amazed with my savings & don't mind the wait. Just tell the cashier that you have to split it up.

Of course you can keep doing this, but I’m betting most people don’t have the freezer space for this. However, we are donating the Banquet pies because we don’t eat them & are getting paid to buy them!

Step 4.) Cut out the $.50/2 Chef Boyardee coupons from 16 Banquet boxes & cut out 2 of the $.50/1 Banquet boneless chicken coupons.

Step 5.) Go to Kroger or Dillons or any other of the Kroger affiliate stores. They are having the Daytona mega sale. For this promotion, when you buy any 10 participating items, you get $3 off instantly & you also get a $3 coupon back to use on your next purchase (you can only use 1 of these per transaction though).

Buy 32 cans Chef Boyardee (coupon excludes the minis), 2 bags Banquet chicken nuggets, 2 Banquet Brown ‘n Serve sausage, 3 Kraft BBQ sauce and 1 Coca-Cola 2 Liter. Again you can pay in 1 transaction, or break it up in 4 to maximize the use of the $3 coupons that will print. If you are breaking your transactions up, here’s what I recommend.

Transaction 1:

8 Chef Boyardee @ $.99 each = $7.92

2 Kraft BBQ sauce @ $.99 each = $1.98

Subtotal before coupons = $9.90

- $3 mega instant savings

- $4 for 5 $.50/2 coupons – doubled

Total = $2.90

Receive back $3 OYNO (on your next order) coupon ($.10 profit)

Transaction 2:

8 Chef Boyardee @ $.99 each = $7.92

1 Banquet chicken nuggets @ $3.99

1 Banquet Brown ‘N Serve sausage @ $.99

Subtotal before coupons= $12.90

- $3 mega instant savings

- $4 for 4 $.50/2 coupons – doubled

- $1 for $.50/1 coupon – doubled

- $3 OYNO coupon from previous transaction

Total = $1.90

Receive back $3 OYNO coupon

Transaction 3: Same as #2

Transaction 4:

8 Chef Boyardee @ $.99 each = $7.92

1 Kraft BBQ sauce @ $.99

1 2-L Coca-Cola @ $1.29

Subtotal before coupons = $10.20

- $3 mega instant savings

- $4 for 4 $.50/2 coupons – doubled

- $3 OYNO from previous transaction

Total = $.20

Receive back $3 OYNO coupon

Your total OOP expense is $6.90 + you have a $3 OYNO coupon for you to use anytime in the next 2 weeks, for a final cost of $3.90. My Kroger stores(Dillon's here) all have self checkouts, so it's easy to do multiple transactions.

Step 6: Cut out 5 of the $.35/1 Hunt’s Ketchup coupons & go to Hyvee on Thursday 2/24

Buy 5 Hunt’s Ketchup @ $.66 each = $3.30

- $1.75 for 5 $.35/1 coupons = $1.75

Total = $1.55

Step 7: Cut out the rest of your coupons & wait for the next great sale! Relax & bask in the glory of how much money you can save with coupons.

Here’s the remaining coupons to use from inside the banquet boxes that don’t expire until 5/2012:

10 $.40/2 Banquet fruit pies

16 $.25/1 Banquet homestyle bakes

14 $.50/1 Banquet boneless chicken bag

11 $.35/1 Hunt’s Ketchup

16 $1/2 Chunch ‘n Munch (12oz+)

16 $1/2 Act II popcorn (3pk+)

Here’s the final tally:

16 Banquet meals

12 Banquet fruit pies

32 Chefboyardee

2 Banquet chicken nuggets (big bags!)

2 Banquet Brown ‘N Serve sausage

3 Kraft BBQ sauce

1 2-liter Coca-Cola

5 Hunts ketchup

Cost for all 73 items = $4.17!!!

If you don’t have a Hyvee, you just can’t get the ketchup, but you can still get everything else!

Frozen Food Stock Up at Target! Wow!!

2011-02-22T23:10:00.000-06:00

So for the past couple of months, I've been shopping Craigslist for a new bigger upright freezer. The small one I had just hasn't been cutting it. So I finally found a new 20 cu. ft freezer at an awesome price.

What was I supposed to do with an empty freezer in the garage? I went to Target!!

Plus here is my non-refrigerated goods.

What did I get?

4 UP & UP Bleach @1.27 each

4 UP & UP floss @ .89 each

4 UP & UP Ibuprofin @ $.99 each

2 Purina Cat Chow $10.99 each

22 Goodlife recipe cat food $.77 each

8 Jimmy Dean breakfast items @ $2.49 each

10 Smart Ones meals @ $1.80 each

3 Pillsbury Toaster Strudels @1.99 each

15 Banquet dinners @ $.84 each

5 Pepperidge Farm texas toast @ $1.97 each

2 New York Garlic bread sticks @ $2.09 each

5 Hot pockets @ $2.09 each

2 Lean pockets @ $2.09 ach

12 Jose Ole Chimichangas @ $1.29 each

2 Red Baron single serve pizzas @ $2.50 each

1 California pizza @ $2.54

8 Market Pantry frozen yogurt @ $.99 each

5 Edy’s single serve ice cream @ $1.02 each

15 Skinny Cow ice cream @ $1.02 each

6 Ben & Jerry ice cream @ $1.02 each

5 Haagen Dazs ice cream @ $.99 each

30 Birds Eye veggies @1.79 & $1.02 each (depending which variety)

2 Market Pantry frozen onions @ $1.29 each

1 Market Pantry frozen carrots @ $.87

1 Market Pantry frozen cauliflower @ $.87

3 Market pantry frozen juice @ $1.32 each

6 Minute Maid frozen juice @ $1.12 each

7 Banquet pot pies @ $.64 each

190 items total

Savings per receipt $214.55

What did I pay?

Subtotal without tax $168.81

(paid all but $32.07 with previously earned Target gift cards)

Earned back 23 $5 gift cards = $115

Final cost = $53.81 for 190 items!!

Great deals at Hen House this week!

2011-02-09T11:37:00.000-06:00

Best Life Buttery Spread $.99

Use the $1/1 coupon from the 1/2 or 1/30 Smartsource

Final price: FREE!

McCormick Grinders 3/$5

Use the $.75/1 coupon from the 01/2 Redplum

Final price: $.92 each

Blue Diamond Almond Breeze $1.99

Use the $.55/1 coupon from the 1/30 Smartsource

Final price: $1.44

Farmland Fully Cooked Breakfast Sausage $1.69

Use the $1/1 coupon from the 1/30 Smartsource

Final price: $.69!

Awesome Hyvee deal: Farmland sausage just $.45 on 2/11 & 2/12!!

2011-02-09T11:06:00.000-06:00

Hyvee is having a 2-day sale 2/11 & 2/12

Farmland sausage links & rolls (uncooked)

are on sale 10/$10.

There was a $.55/1 coupon in the 1/30 Smartsource

making them just $.45 each!

Dollar General 2/8: Cost $2.25 + tax!

2011-02-08T21:12:00.000-06:00

Purchased:

6 bags Malt-O-Meal: $3/5 = $10

2 Maalox: $4.50 each = $9

5 Dove deodorant: $1.85 each = $9.25

5 Dentastix: $2 each = $10

Subtotal: $38.25

Coupons used:

3 $2/2 Malt-O-Meal (11oz+) = -$6

2 $5/1 Maalox = -$10

5 $2/1 Dove deodorant = -$10

5 $2/1 Dentastix = -$10

Subtotal after coupons: $2.25

Sales tax = $3.31

Final total: $5.56

$15.05 for 127 items!

2011-02-06T12:23:00.000-06:00

Went to Price Chopper & Dollar General:

Price Chopper:

30 Lifewaters

36 Bar-S Hotdogs

2 Totinos pizzas

2 Totinos Pizza Rolls

Dollar General (2 stores: 5 transactions to maximize the $5/$25 coupons):

2 12-pk Pepsi

2 12-pk Mountain Dew

2 12-pk Dr. Pepper

3 Bugles

1 Banana Nut Muffins

1 Lucky Leaf applesauce

6 Maalox

2 DG Apple Juice

1 SunnyD

2 David Sunflower seeds

8 McCormick Taco Seasonings

16 Dentastix

10 Quaker Oatmeal

17 Dove Deoderants

Subtotal before coupons: $207.65

Subtotal after coupons: $15.05!

I also had to pay sales tax of $13.42.

Which makes my final OOP expense of $28.47.

$5 off discount code for iHerb!

2011-02-04T11:11:00.000-06:00

My friend over at Laura Williams' Musing posted this great deal: iherb deal, which gives you a $5 off code for iHerb. There are lots of products there in the $5 range, and I found that it will work if it is less than $5. Plus at the top of the webpage, you can click free offers & choose 2 at no cost as well! Just pay shipping for your order!

Thanks Laura!

Price Chopper 4-day sale 2/3-2/6

2011-02-03T12:25:00.000-06:00

Price Chopper is having a 4-day sale from 2/3 - 2/6

Bar-S Hotdogs are just $.68 each.

Just the $1/2 coupon from the 1/30 RP to get them for just $.18 a pack.

Johnsonville Brats, just $1.98

Use the $1/2 coupon from 1/23 SS to get them for $1.48 a pack.

Dean's Dips are on sale for $.98.

There is a printable here for $1/2. Final price just $.48 each!

Keebler Cracker on sale for $1.48

Match with the $1/2 from the 1/30 RP to make them just $.98 each!

Rotel is on sale for $.78 each.

Buy 4 & use these coupons:

3 $.30/1 from the 1/23 SS

& 1 Buy 3 get 1 free from the Jan All You magazine

Final price, $1.44 for 4 cans or just $.36 each!

Old El Paso shells & beans on sale for $.68

Match with the $.50/2 coupon from 1/30 SS

(some lucky people got a $.50/1!!)

to make a final price of $.86 for 2 or just $.43 each.

Pace Picante sauce on sale for $1.48

use the $.50/2 from 1/30 SS for a final price of $1.23 each.

Hyvee: Paseo facial tissue only $.38!

2011-02-03T12:13:00.000-06:00

Hyvee has Paseo fascial tissue for $.88 a box.

And there is a $.50/1 coupon in the ad, making it just $.38 for a box of tissues.

That's a pretty good deal!

Best Hyvee deals for 2/2 - 2/8

2011-02-02T12:17:00.000-06:00

Ecotrin Aspirin, Buy 1 Get 1 Free @ $2.48 each

Coupon Matchup: $2/1 Ecotrin 1/30 RP

Final price: $.48 for 2

Or if your store will let you use 2 $2/1 coupons, they would both be free or possibly some overage to cover your other items. I know many other stores allow this, but I'm not sure about Hyvee.

Coffeemate Creamer $1.88

Coupon Matchup: $1/1 printable from http://www.coffee-mate.com/Offers/Default.aspx

Final price: $.88 each

Wholly Guacamole Dip 2/$4

Use the $1.50/1 coupon from http://www.eatwholly.com/getofftheranch/assets/WG_Coupon.pdf

Final price: $.50 each

And that's really the only really great deals I am seeing at Hyvee this week with coupons.

Other stores just have much better prices on the sale items this time around.

My 1/30 Country Mart trip!

2011-02-01T13:30:00.000-06:00

Ran in on Sunday morning to get my newspapers for the week.

Had to do a little shopping.

Here's what I got:

6 Bird's Eye vegetables: On sale for $.88!

3 McCormick seasoning: $.85 each

Subtotal: $7.63

Used 3 $1/2 Birdseye coupons, from the store's special flyer

Used 3 $.75/1 McCormick coupons

Final total after coupons: $2.58!

Dillons 1/29: Tiny little trip while Pete was getting fuel!

2011-02-01T13:20:00.000-06:00

Ran into Dillons while Pete was using up our fuel points for the month!

I purchased:

10 Kraft Easy mac $.99 each

1 Maalox $5.24

2 Carefree liners $1.25 each

Subtotal: $17.64

- $5 mega sale discount

- 5 $1/2 Kraft easy mac tearpad coupons

- 2 $.50/1 Carefree coupons

- 2 $.50/1 Carefree store double discount

- $5/1 Maalox coupon

Final total: $.64 + tax of $.98 = $1.62!

Westlake Ace Hardware 1/29: Cost $.83!

2011-02-01T13:13:00.001-06:00

I purchased 10 GE energy smart CFL bulbs.

Regular price $3.33

On sale for $1

Used 10 $1/1 coupons

Subtotal: $0.00

Sales tax: $.83

Final cost: $.83!

Dollar General 1/30: Final cost: $4.87!

2011-02-01T13:07:00.000-06:00

I purchased:

6 Bubble wrap mailers

6 Cream of Wheat

3 Olay body wash

2 Secret deodorant twin-packs

1 Olay mouisturizer

Total before coupons: $32.50

Total after coupons: $1.50 + $3.37 in sales tax = $4.87!

1/30 Target trip! Total after coupons, just $5.27!

2011-02-01T13:01:00.000-06:00

I purchased:

1 Boboli pizza crust

1 Boboli sauce

2 Classico red sauces

4 Classico alfredo sauces

20 Goodlife cat food

2 Pam

10 Everready C batteries

1 bunch Bananas

1 Clip-rite clips

1 Hershey's kisses

Subtotal before coupons: $54.75

After coupons: $5.27!!

Awesome!!

Dillons/Kroger Mega Sale trip: Saved 82%!!

2011-02-01T12:50:00.000-06:00

What I bought:

20 Rotel

10 Hormel Chili Master

4 Krusteaz cookie mix

6 Kleenex

24 Hunts tomatoes

6 Carefree liners

10 Softsoap

3 French’s spicy mustard

8 Finish dishwasher tabs

5 Red Baron Pizzas

4 SeaPac Butterfly shrimp

4 Yakisoba

1 New York Texas Toast

5 Angel Soft TP

26 Kraft Easy Mac

13 Dr. Pepper 2-liters

10 Philadelphia cream cheese

6 Old El Paso salsa

3 Similac formula

6 Honest Ade

2 Everready flashlights

4 packages Bar-S hot dogs

5 Butterfinger Snackers

7 Butterfingers

2 Reach floss picks

3 Nyquil trial size

2 bags peanut butter M&Ms

2 bags Snickers minis

6 McCormick seasonings

1 Yoplait yogurt

12 Balance bars

6 Kraft 2% cheese

2 Oscar Mayer lunch meat

1 French’s honey mustard dipping sauce

Before coupons & store savings, my total was $470.31!

After coupons & store savings, my total was $91.73

Plus I received back a $3 & $1.50 catalina coupon bringing my total down to $86.65.

Of which a whopping $18.86 was sales tax!

My total savings was 82% or $383.66!

Snow Day: Freebie Roundup!!

2011-02-01T12:13:00.000-06:00

Just click each link for the free sample!

Dentek floss picks

Maybelline FitMe

Origin's Plantscription Anti-aging serum

Sun-Maid fruit & sunshine recipe book

You-T Cranberry Drink

Wendy's Natural Cut fries with sea salt:

Bayer Aspirin for Sam's Club members

Family Circle magazine, 2 free issues (no contract, no bill!)

Quaker Oatmeal Squares http://quakeroats.com/share/

Breathe Right Nasal strips

Hyvee Catalina deals 1/24 - 2/20/11

2011-01-24T16:38:00.000-06:00

Here is a complete list of the Hy-Vee catalina deals currently going on & coupon matchups for them! With some good sale prices, I think we will have a great month at Hy-Vee! I'll try to keep this updated as new coupons come out each week. Let me know if I've missed anything.

Dole Pineapple Juice Buy 2 Dole Pineapple Juice 46 oz; get $1.00 off your next shopping order.

Dole Jarred Fruit Buy 4 Dole Jarred Fruit (excluding peach); get 75¢ off your next shopping order.

Uncle Ben's Ready Rice Buy 6 Regular Size Uncle Ben's® Ready Rice; get $1.00 off your next shopping order.

Coupon matchup: Uncle’s Ben’s Plain White or Brown Rice Product $.75/1 from the 1/9/11 SS

Dole Frozen Fruit Buy 3 Dole Frozen Fruit; get 50¢ off your next shopping order.

Coupon matchup: Dole Frozen Fruit, $.75/1 from the 1/9/11 SS (exp 3/13/11)

Whiskas Temptations Buy 6 Whiskas Temptations Treats for Cats; get $1.00 off your next shopping order.

Crystal Light Pure Fitness Buy 2 Crystal Light Pure Fitness; get $1.00 off your next shopping order.

Uncle Ben's Brown Rice Buy 2 Uncle Ben's® Brown Rice 28 Oz. or 2 Pound Bags; get 75¢ off your next shopping order.

Coupon matchup: Uncle’s Ben’s Plain White or Brown Rice Product $.75/1 from the 1/9/11 SS

Uncle Ben's Fast & Natural Buy 2 Uncle Ben's® Fast & Natural or Boil in Bag Brown Rice 14 Oz.; get 75¢ off your next shopping order.

Coupon matchup: Uncle’s Ben’s Plain White or Brown Rice Product $.75/1 from the 1/9/11 SS

Swanson Canned Poultry Buy 3 Swanson® Canned Poultry; get $1.00 off your next shopping order.

Country Crock Spread Buy (2) Country Crock® Spread 15oz; get $1.00 off your next shopping order.

Coupon matchup: Shedd’s Spread Country Crock Product, printable http://bricks.coupons.com/Start.asp? bt=vi&tqnm=zekkdle87354984&o=63611&c=UL&p=ish8QM5b or http://bricks.coupons.com/Start.asp?bt=vg&tqnm=zekkdle87354984&o=63611&c=UL&p=ish8QM5b

Snausages Dog Snacks Buy 2 Snausages® Dog Snacks; get $1.00 off your next shopping order.

Coupon Matchup: Snausages or Snaw Somes! Dog Snacks, 9.75 oz+, $1/1 from the 12/12 RP (exp 2/6/11)

Milk-Bone Dog Treats Buy 2 Milk-Bone® Soft & Chewy Dog Treats; get $1.00 off your next shopping order.

Coupon Matchup: Milk-Bone Dog Snacks $1.50/2 from the 12/12 RP (exp 2/6/11)

Carnation Breakfast Essentials Buy 3 Carnation Breakfast Essentials Powder or Ready-To-Drink 4-Packs; get $1.50 off your next shopping order.

Coupon Matchup: Carnation Breakfast Essentials Package or Multipack, $.75/1, 1/21 SS (2/2/11)

Coupon Matchup: Carnation Breakfast Essentials Product $1/1, 1/2/11 SS (2/13/11)

Coupon Matchup: $.75/1 printable http://partners.mysavings.com/z/1174/CD2952/

Starkist Gourmet Choice Buy 4 Starkist Gourmet Choice® Tuna Cans; get 75¢ off your next shopping order.

Coupon Matchup: $.50/1 from February All You magazine (exp 3/31/11)

Dole Fruit Bowl Buy 4 Dole Fruit Bowl, Gel, Parfait or Fruit Crisp; get 75¢ off your next shopping order.

Coupon Matchup: $.75/1 Dole Fruit Crisp, 1/9/11 SS (3/31/11)

Coupon Matchup: $1.50/4 printable http://coupons2.smartsource.com/smartsource/index.jspLink=WRP4RDZFZ73SU&MID=ad65fa7b4884

Pedialyte Buy 2 Pedialyte Any Size Any Variety; get $1.50 off your next shopping order.

Coupon Matchup: $1.50/1 Pedialyte product, 11/7/10 SS (exp 1/31/11)

Coupon Matchup: $1.50/1 printable:

http://pedialyte.com/singles-sse?utm_medium=email&utm_source=PdlTetraSSE&utm_campaign=Tetra_SSE

V8 Soup Buy 2 V8® Soup; get $1.00 off your next shopping order.

Coupon Matchup: $1/1 V8 Soups, February All You magazine (5/31/11) & many other magazines

Coupon Matchup: $1/1 printable: http://tryv8soup.com/?EID=4213&MID=4012472&LID=3458

Kleenex Buy 5 KLEENEX® 60ct or larger; get $1.00 off your next shopping order.

Coupon Matchup: $.50/3, 1/2/11 SS (exp 2/27/11)

Coupon Matchup: $.50/3 printable: http://partners.mysavings.com/z/4141/CD2952/

Gerber Yogurt Blends Buy 3 Participating Gerber® Infant Yogurt Blends 4-Packs; get $2.00 off your next shopping order.

Gerber Graduates Buy 3 Participating Gerber® Graduates® Snacks; get $1.50 off your next shopping order.

Friskies Cat Food Buy 12 Friskies Canned Cat Food-Sgls/Multipks; get $1.00 off your next shopping order.

Coupon Matchup: $1/15 printable http://www.bettycrocker.com/coupons-promotions/coupons/coupons

Glade Sense & Spray Buy 2 Glade® Sense & Spray® Refills; get $1.00 off your next shopping order.

Coupon Matchup: $1.50/1 Glade Automatic Spray Refill, October issue of Woman’s Day & Good Housekeeping

Scrubbing Bubbles Buy 3 Scrubbing Bubbles® Products; including Fantastik®; get $2.00 off your next shopping order.

Coupon Matchup: $.75/1 Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower Cleaner refill, 1/9 SS (exp 2/20/11)

Coupon Matchup: $5/1 Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower Cleaner Starter Kit, 1/9 SS (exp 2/20/11)

Coupon Matchup: $1/2 Scrubbing Bubbles Bathroom Cleaners, 1/9 SS (exp 2/20/11)

Coupon Matchup: $.75/1 Scrubbing Bubbles Fantastik All Purpose Cleaner, 1/9 SS (exp 2/20/11)

Coupon Matchup: BOGO Scrubbing Bubbles Fresh Brush WYB Toilet Cleaning Gel, up to $6.99, 1/9 SS (exp 2/20/11)

Coupon Matchup: $.75/1 Scrubbing Bubbles Mega Shower Foamer, 1/9 SS (exp 2/20/11)

Coupon Matchup: $1/1 Scrubbing Bubbles Power Sprayer Refill, 1/9 SS (exp 2/20/11)

Coupon Matchup: $5/1 Scrubbing Bubbles Power Sprayer Starter Kit, 1/9 SS (exp 2/20/11)

Coupon Matchup: $.55/1 Scrubbing Bubbles Vanish Drop-ins, 1/9 SS (exp 2/20/11)

Coupon Matchup: $2/2 peelies!

Fancy Feast Buy 24 Fancy Feast Wet Cat Food Cans (Singles or Multipacks) - excluding Appetizers; get $1.00 off your next shopping order.

Pledge Buy 2 Pledge® Products; get $1.00 off your next shopping order.

Coupon Matchup: $.75/1 Pledge Fabric Sweeper for Pet Hair, 1/9/11 SS (2/20/11)

Coupon Matchup: $1/1 Pledge Floor Care Product, 1/9 SS (exp 2/20/11)

Coupon Matchup: $1.50/2 Pledge Furniture Care Product, 1/9 SS (exp 2/20/11)

Coupon Matchup: $.75/1 Pledge Multi Surface Products, 1/9 SS (exp 2/20/11)

Coupon Matchup: $1.50/2 Pledge Furniture Care Products, November issue Country Living Now (exp 2/28/11)

Yoplait Buy 20 4oz or 6oz Yoplait(r) cups; get $2.00 off your next shopping order.

Coupon Matchup: $.60/2 Yoplait Green Yogurt cups, 1/2 GM (exp 2/26)

Coupon Matchup: $.50/8 Yoplait Yogurt, Original, Light, Thick & Creamy or Whips Cups, 1/2 GM (exp 2/26)

Classico Pasta Sauce Buy 4 Classico Pasta Sauce 24 oz or less; get $1.00 off your next shopping order.

Coupon Matchup: $1/1 printable: http://offers.classico.com/Coupon/

Coupon Matchup: $1/1 peelie found on Ronzoni pasta boxes

Coupon Matchup: Buy 2 Get 1 free hangtags

Free Friskies Cat Treats at Dillons/Kroger!

2011-01-23T16:18:00.002-06:00

On sale 10/$10.

Well in today's SmartSource, there are two coupons that make this free!
They are:
$1/1 any Friskies cat treats
$1/1 Friskies Indoor Adventures treats

Enjoy!

My target trip 1/23. Just $4.17!

2011-01-23T16:14:00.000-06:00

Target Trip 1/23

20 Goodlife cat food @ $.77 = $15.40

4 Olay bar @$.97 = $3.88

4 Archer Farms coffee @$1 = $4

2 Lindt chocolate @$1.99 = $3.98

3 Ghiradelli @$2.19 = $6.57 (1 missing from pic, yummy!)

1 Softlips twinpack @$2.99

1 Motts applesauce @$1.99

Subtotal before coupons = $38.81

Coupons Used:

4 $2/1 Olay = -$8

20 $1.50/1 Goodlife = -$30

Subtotal after coupons = $.81

Tax = $3.36

Final cost = $4.17!

My 1/23 Hyvee trips!

2011-01-23T16:09:00.000-06:00

Hyvee #1:

5 Quaker Oats @ $1.50 each (lower than in-ad price!) = $7.50

1 Pineapple @ $2.99

3 Campbell’s Chunky Soup @ $.99 each = $2.97

Subtotal before coupons = 13.46

Used 5 $1/1 Quaker coupons = -$5

Used in-ad $3/fruit = -$3

Used 1 $1/3 Campbells Chunky = -$1

Subtotal after coupons = $4.46

Tax = $.90

Final total $5.35 + received back $3 OYNO catalina from Quaker

So final cost = $2.36!

Hyvee #2:

5 Quaker Oats @ $1.50 each (lower than in-ad price!) = $7.50

6 Apples @ $2.77

3 Campbell’s Chunky Soup @ $.99 each = $2.97

Subtotal before coupons = 13.24

Used 5 $1/1 Quaker coupons = -$5

Used in-ad $3/fruit = -$3

Used 1 $1/3 Campbells Chunky = -$1

Subtotal after coupons = $4.24

Tax = $.80

Final total $5.04 + received back $3 OYNO catalina from Quaker

So final cost = $2.04!

Hyvee #3:

5 Quaker Oats @ $1.65 each = $8.25

1 Cantaloupe @ $.99 = $.99

3 Grapefruit @ 3/$1 = $1

3 Oranges @ $.44 each = $1.32

Subtotal before coupons: $11.56

Used 5 $1/1 Quaker coupons = -$5

Used in-ad $3/fruit WYB 5 Quaker = -$3

Total after coupons = $3.56

Tax = $.80

Final total = $4.36 + received back $3 OYNO catalina from Quaker

So final cost = $1.36!

Free PowerBar Sample!

2011-01-20T16:16:00.000-06:00

Just go here: http://www.powerbar.com/freesample/default.aspx to sign up

for your free PowerBar energy sample!

Hurry! Free cup of Yoplait!

2011-01-20T12:29:00.000-06:00

Just click on the link & fill out the request form:

https://www.yoplait.com/get-your-free-cup

The coupon will come in the mail in 2-4 weeks!

Hurry, though this offer will likely expire quickly!

Hyvee Deal: 5 Quaker Oatmeals & $3 in fresh fruit for just $3.40!

2011-01-20T11:53:00.000-06:00

Hy-vee has an awesome sale this week! In the add there is a coupon for $3 off Fresh Fruit when you buy 5 Quaker products. The Quaker Oats are on sale for $1.68 & there is a $1/1 coupon from the 1/2 Red Plum.

Here's the deal:
5 Quaker Oats = $8.40
Buy $3 fruit = $3.00
Total = $11.40
Use 5 $1/1 Quaker coupons = -$5
have cashier scan ad-coupon = -$3
Final price = $3.40!

Walgreens - How to get 6 bags of Kraft Homestyle Mac&Cheese for $1!

2011-01-18T15:36:00.000-06:00

Ok, the bags of Kraft Homestyle macaroni & cheese are on sale at Walgreens this week at 3 for $5.00

You can use the in-store IVC coupon from the January coupon book (usually on the display by the ads) for $1 off 2.

And there was a coupon for $1.00 off in the 1/16 Smartsource insert.

Here's the best scenario:

Buy 6 Kraft Homestyle = $10
Use 6 $1/1 smartsource coupons = -$6
Scan the Walgreens coupon ($1/2) which will take off $3 since you are buying 6 = $-3

Final price for all 6 ------ just $1.00!!!

That is a great price. And I know from experience that these are tasty! I'm stopping by tonight to get some. If there are out, I'll get a raincheck. Otherwise, I'll be posting a picture later!

Free tax filing with TurboTax for 1040EZ

2011-01-18T12:24:00.000-06:00

If you just file a 1040EZ form, you can file free with TurboTax.

State Income taxes are extra.

Here's the website: TurboTax

Awesome Walgreens deal next week - get ready!

2011-01-18T11:51:00.001-06:00

Next week at Walgreens, when you spend $30 on Benefiber, Maalox, Ex-lax or Prevacid, you get $10 back in Register Rewards.

The Maalox will be on sale for $5.24. And there are coupons out for $5/1 Maalox products from the 1/9/11 SmartSource insert.

Here the math:
6 Maalox @ $5.24 = 31.44
- 6 $5 coupons = - $30.00
Total = $1.44 plus tax
Then recieve back $10 register reward
For a final profit of $8.56 (minus whatever your sales tax is)

If you don't have 6 coupons, or don't need 6 Maalox -
You can always buy 4 & then mix in $10 worth of the Ex-Lax, Gax-X or Benefiber & it would be like getting those items for just a couple dollars because you would be paying around $12.00 out of pocket & then would get a $10 register reward back!

100% rewards from OfficeMax

2011-01-18T11:36:00.000-06:00

Ok, I am a huge fan of OfficeMax.com. Shipping is free over $50 & it is FAST shipping. I usually receive my order within 2 days. Sometimes the next day!

Well, if you are not a MaxPerks member yet, you should definitely sign up!

Several times a year, OfficeMax offers 100% back in MaxPerks rewards on certain items.

What that means is you pay for the item now (either out of pocket, with a gift card, or with your MaxPerks rewards certificates) - and then in a couple weeks 100% of that cost is credited back to your OfficeMax perks account. You can print out your certificate to use on anything in store or pay online with it.

Or if you are like me, you wait until they offer another 100% offer & use the certificate to pay for it. Then you can just keep rolling them! You can also get MaxPerks for taking in your printer cartridges!

I recommend you start with $50 in merchandise to get free shipping if you can afford that. Then you just keep rolling in every couple months when they have a new offer. Basically all you pay is sales tax.

The items above have a limit of 3 each. Once the rewards are credited to your account, they expire in 3 months so don't let them expire on you!

Free perfume sample!

2011-01-18T11:00:00.000-06:00

Get a free sample of Lacoste perfume!

What a great freebie!

Just click here: http://www.lacoste-parfums.com/free-sample/

Walgreens deals 1/16 - 1/22

2011-01-14T14:02:00.000-06:00

Several great deals this week!

Full Fast Appetite Control Spray

Sale price $10

Earn $10 Register Reward

Final price: FREE

Joint Juice Glucosamine Chondroitin

Sale price $10

Earn $10 Register Reward

Use $1 coupon http://jointjuice.com/coupons.jsp

Final price: $1 moneymaker

ThermaCare Heat Wrap – trial size

Sale price: $2.50

Earn $2.50 Register Reward

Final price: FREE

Vicks DayQuil & Nyquil

Sale price $5.00

Buy $20 or more & earn $10 Register Reward

Coupons to use: $4/1 Sinex (usually DayQuil & Nyquil Sinex versions are included)

Or use the $1.50/1 dayquil/Nyquil coupon or $1/1 any Vicks coupons

Final price when you buy 4: $1.00 each when you use the $4/1 coupon

Listerine Pocket Paks

Sale price: $2.99

Earn $1.00 Register Reward

Use $1/1 coupon from the 10/10/10 or 01/03/10 red plum insert

Final price: $.99

Gillette Fusion ProGlide Manual or Power Razor System

Sale price: $9.99

Earn $5.00 register reward

Use $4/1 coupon from 12/26 P&G insert

Final price: $.99

Lysol Neutra Air Sanitizing Spray

Sale price: 2/$7

Earn $2 Register reward

Use 2 - $1.50/1 coupons from the 1/9 Smartsource

Final price when you buy 2: $1 each

Neosporin Lip Health

Sale price: 2/$8

Earn $3 Register reward

Use 2 $1/1 coupons from the 1/9 Smartsource insert

Final price when you buy 2: $1.50 each

Pampers Jumbo Pack Diapers

Sale price: 2/$18

Earn $3 register reward

Use 2 $2.50/1 coupons from the 12/26 P&G insert

Final price when you buy 2: $5 each

Pantene Shampoo, Conditioner or Styling products

Sale price 2/$7

Earn $2 Register reward

Use 1 $3/2 coupon from the 12/26 P&G insert

Final price when you buy 2: $1 each

Tom’s of Maine products (Deoderant, mouth wash, toothpaste)

Sale price $3.99

Earn $3 register reward

Use 1 $2/1 coupon (tearpads people are finding)

Final price $.99 without the coupon, or a $1.01 moneymaker with the coupon!

These are just the best deals I'm seeing right now, I'll add to it as I find others.

Free Cream of Wheat sample

2011-01-12T12:03:00.000-06:00

Just go to http://www.creamofwheat.com/cinnabon/ for a free sample of Cream of Wheat & to get a $1 off coupon. Depending on the restrictions of the coupon, you may be able to score some free at Dollar General because I recently saw that had small boxes of it for just $1!

Snow Day - Free Sample Time!

2011-01-10T10:07:00.000-06:00

If you are home today because of snow, here's a list of freebies you can sign up for!

Just go to Steviacane's Facebook page to request a free sample of their sweetener!

You can also go to Atkins to sign up for 3 free Atkins bars & a weight-loss kit.

Goodnites is offering a free sample of their GoodNites Underwear!

And if you like some music while working out, Subway is offering a free download of their Biggest Loser workout mix!

Getting organized for the new year? Post It is offering a free sample of their durable tabs & you can also print some coupons!

My Awesome Target Trip! Just $.88!

2011-01-08T23:09:00.000-06:00

Target 01/08/11

I did 3 transactions because the Olay coupons are P&G clearly state only 4 per transaction.

Here's the breakdown:

Transaction 1:

15 GoodLife Cat food @ $.77 each = $11.55 - will donate

4 Olay bar soap @ $.97 each = $3.88 (for gift baskets)

1 Oscar Mayer hot dogs @ $1.99

1 dozen eggs @ $1.79

1 New York Texas Toast @ $2.49 (dinner, worked all day & didn't feel like cooking anything fancy)

1 Stouffer’s Lasagna @ $9.99 (dinner, worked all day & didn't feel like cooking anything fancy)

Subtotal = $31.69

Coupons used:

15 $1.50/1 Goodlife cat food coupons = -$22.50

4 $2/1 Olay = -$8

1 $.75/1 Oscar Mayer = -$.75

Final total: $.44 + sales tax

Transaction 2:

4 Olay soap @ $.97 = $3.88 (for gift baskets)

2 Oscar Mayer Lunchables @$1 = $2 - (the ones from Thursday are gone already!)

1 Sara Lee bread @ $1.89

1 Bisquick shake n pour @ $1.99

Subtotal = $9.66

Coupons used:

4 $2/1 Olay = -$8.00

2 $.75/1 Oscar Mayer = -$1.50

Final total = $.26 + sales tax

Transaction 3:

2 Olay soap @ $.97 = $1.94 (for gift baskets)

1 Wrapping paper @ $1.74 (for the wedding actually)

2 Oscar Mayer lunchables @ $1.00 = $2.00

Subtotal = $5.68

Coupons used:

2 $2/1 Olay = -$4.00

2 $.75/1 Oscar Mayer product = -$1.50 (the ones from Thursday are gone already!)

Final total = $.18 + sales tax

Again, I'm in Kansas so tax is a killer.

We are taxes precoupon & our sales tax is high (9.525%!).

And we are taxed on everything - food and all!

While my final subtotal for all 3 transactions was only $.88, my sales tax was $4.49.

That makes my final OOP (out of pocket) cost: $5.37. Which is still an awesome deal. That 1/2 of what I would have paid for just the lasagne! I just don't include it in the breakdown usually because most of you lucky folks don't have to deal with nearly that much tax. I should start shopping in Missouri more since that's where I work, but Target would add about 20 minutes to my commute. Ugh.

My recent small trips, up to 100% savings!

2011-01-06T23:46:00.000-06:00

Sunfresh in Kansas City

01/06/11

Final price: $1.25

Details:

5 Lunchables @ $1 each - $5

Used 5 $.75/1 tearpad coupons = -$3.75

Final price = $1.25 for all 5 plus tax!

Dollar General

01/05/11

Final price: $0

Details:

2 Quaker Oats @ $1 each = $2.00

4 Olay body wash @ $2 each = $8.00

Used 2 $1/1 Quaker coupons from the 1/2/11 RP = -$2

Used 4 $2/1 Olay body wash coupons from the January P&G insert = -$8

Final price = just sales tax!

Walmart

01/04/11

Final price: $0

Detail:
Purchased 2 Malt-O-Meal cereals @ $1 each = $2

Used 1 $2/2 11.0oz or larger Malt-O-Meal coupons from the 1/2/11 SS = -$2.00

Final price: Just sales tax!

Dollar General

12/31/10

Purchased:

3 Olay Body Washes @ $2 each = $6

3 Olay Lotion @ $5.75 each = $17.25

6 Beneful dog food @ 3/$5 = $10

10 Colgate total trial size @ $1 each = $10

2 clearanced garland strands @ $1 each = $2

Used:

3 $2/1 Olay body wash = -$6

3 BOGO Olay body wash/lotion (expiring that day!) = -$17.25

6 $2/1 Beneful Qs (expiring that day!) = -$12.00

10 $1/1 Colgate total Qs (expiring that day!) = -$10

Final price: Just sales tax!

I don't calculate sales tax in these trips because depending on what state you live in, you may not have to pay any sales tax at all, or you may pay only on the non-food items, or it may be pre-coupon price, or post-coupon price. Basically, becaue sales tax varies so widely between states, I don't feel that including it would help you to see what you can get.

Free Sample: Nature Made Vitamin D

2011-01-05T11:07:00.000-06:00

Just click on this link: free sample, to get your free

Nature Made chewable vitamin D sample from Walmart!

Free Sample: Purina One

2011-01-03T12:49:00.000-06:00

Target is offering up a free sample of either

Purina One cat or dog food.

Just go here: http://samples.target.com/ to request yours!

Free Malt-O-Meal at Walmart!

2011-01-03T12:45:00.001-06:00

Wal-Mart has their small bags of Malt-O-Meal cereal on price rollback to just $1.00.

Well in yesterday's SmartSource inserts, there was a coupon for $2 off 2 bags of Malt-O-Meal. The coupons vary in the size requirements, but for most people, you should be able to score free cereal!

At the Wal-Mart I went to, they had a big display of the cereal in the center aisle by the food so look for one of those if the regular aisle is out. Also, depending on the size requirements of your coupons, check out the different varieties for different sizes. I know some kinds weigh more than others!

Technical Difficulties

2010-12-22T12:38:00.001-06:00

I have been having technical difficulties getting pictures & links to post in my blog. I am hoping to this all worked out tomorrow. Sorry for the lack of posts this week.

Ebates = Huge Savings!

2010-12-20T13:49:00.000-06:00

If you haven't used eBates before, now is the time! Today when you sign up you get a $10 gift card! Plus you earn cash back everytime you purchase through companies online. Buy something at Walmart.com, get 2% back, Target.com, get 3% cash back. Barnes & Noble is 8% cash back! There really isn't a reason not to do this! Just click this link & it will direct you to where you sign up & get your gift card: ebates. I got mine to Home Depot!

Free Sample: Lactaid Dietary Supplements

2010-12-18T22:22:00.000-06:00

Free Sample for Today!

Just go to: https://www.lactaid.com/

and request a free sample of the Lactaid Fast Act Dietary Supplement!

Awesome Groupon Redbox deal! $1 for 3 Rentals!

2010-12-14T14:41:00.000-06:00

If you rent Redbox movies, then you WANT to get in on this Redbox deal. You can score 3 rentals for just $1! Click the link here:

Redbox Deal!

Or you can check out the daily Kansas City deal here:

Find Today's Daily Deal on the Best in Kansas City!

Free sample of Avery Adhesive Name Badges

2010-12-14T13:53:00.000-06:00

Just click the link below to get your free sample of Avery adhesive Name Badges!

Avery Sample

Yankee Candle: Buy 2 Get 2 Free Coupon

2010-12-14T13:46:00.000-06:00

Have a Yankee Candle lover on your shopping list?

Just print this coupon for buy 2 get 2 free and save some money!

You can also use this coupon and Bed Bath & Beyond & pair it with their 20% off any 1 item coupon that was just in their ad from the Sunday paper!

Office MaxPerks: Free Swingline Stapler

2010-12-14T13:18:00.000-06:00

I am a huge fan of the OfficeMax MaxPerks program.

They office free after rewards items throughout the year & the turnaround time to get the rewards in your account is only about 30 days. Plus they don't expire for 90 days! That is plenty of time to use them up!

Just go to http://www.officemaxperks.com/

Right now they have this Swingline Optima Desk Stapler for $21.49, and you receive back $21.49 in MaxPerks rewards (which is just like cash or a giftcard to the store). The limit is 3.

They also list the Post-It Notes, but when I tried to buy them, it said the item was discontinued. Let me know if you were able to find them available on the website.

Also, if you order over $50, shipping is free. And by the way, shipping is fast! I almost always get my orders within 2 days with their standard free shipping!

Feel free to ask if you have any questions about this program!

Hancock on Blu Ray for just $3.99 from Amazon

2010-12-14T13:09:00.000-06:00

Ok go to Amazon to get the Special Edition of Hancock on Blu Ray for just $3.99.

It is listed as $6.99, but use the code GRHORNET at checkout for an extra $3 off!

Final price, just $3.99!

Remember you can sign up for Amazon Mom to get free shipping. Plenty of time to get this by Christmas!

Buy A Movie, Get A Free Movie Ticket to Little Fockers!

2010-12-14T13:02:00.000-06:00

Click here, Amazon movie deal, to see 31 different movie titles that Amazon has available for this promotion right now. I ordered the movie Role Models in Blu Ray for just $8.99 & will get a promotion code to get a free movie ticket for Little Fockers!

Plus after I made the order, I also got a code from Amazon for a $5 Amazon Video on Demand credit!

Free cup Yoplait Original Yogurt! Hurry!

2010-12-14T09:39:00.000-06:00

Just visit: https://yoplait.com/get-your-free-cup

And sign up for a coupon for a free cup of Yoplait Original Yogurt.

States the coupon should arrive in 2 - 4 weeks.

Enjoy!

Free Kindle download: Money Girl's Smart Moves to Deal with Your Debt

2010-12-12T19:59:00.000-06:00

Go to Free Download to download this book to your Kindle for free!

12/12 Free Samples: Playtex & Curel

2010-12-12T19:37:00.000-06:00

For a free sample of Playtex Sport tampons visit: playtexsport

For a free sample of Curel Sensitive Skin Remedy lotion visit: curel

It's Sunday! New coupons are here!

2010-12-12T14:32:00.000-06:00

There are 2 inserts in the papers this week. A smartsource (SS) and a red plum (RP). I get two different newspapers on Sunday. I get a Kansas City Star (KCS) and a Lawrence Journal World (LJW). The inserts in the two papers are always slightly different.

Here are the coupons from the inserts that I am most excited about:
From the Smartsource:
Reese's BOGO Reese's, Kit Kat, Hersheys FREE, exp 2/12/11
Air Wick candle $2/1, exp 1/23/11
Reames $.50/1 exp 3/12/11
Purina Beggin $1/1, exp 3/31/11
Ludens's Cough drops $.55/1 exp 2/28/11 (only in the KCS)
Bic 3 black or 4 blade disposable shaver $2/1 exp 1/9/11 (only in the KCS)
Energizer batteries or flashlight $1/1 exp 1/31/11 (only in the KCS)
Birds Eye vegetables $.50/2, exp 1/31/11 (only in the KCS)
Welch's 64oz or 96 oz $1/1 exp 2/13/11 (only in the LJW)
Seapak $1/1 exp 1/31/11 (only in the LJW)
Pioneer Brand gravy mix $.55/2 exp 2/28/11 (only in the LJW)

From the RedPlum:
Pounch cat treats $1.50/2, exp 2/6/11
Crest whitestrips $7/1, exp 1/31/11
Duracell $1.50/1, exp 1/31/11
Axe shower gel or detailer BOGO free, exp 1/8/11
Axe bodyspray, deoderant BOGO free, exp 1/8/11

I'm sure there are other coupons this week that will end up being awesome deals in the weeks to come, but for right now, the ones I listed are the ones I am most excited about!

Make Your Own Opportunities...by Gail Vaz-Oxlade

2010-12-12T12:28:00.001-06:00

This is a blog that I recently read & really enjoyed.

Here is the original blog post: http://gailvazoxlade.com/blog/archives/2378
Please check out her blog, I love Gail. I think she is very blunt & honest, which is how we all need to be with our finances.

Make Your Own Opportunities

Posted by Gail | Filed under Life Lessons

So Alex and I were talking the other day about getting what you want. She chastised me for what she referred to as, in essence, being cocky. I told her that asking for what you want, and telling people why they should give it to you isn’t “cocky”… it’s smart. Our conversation got me thinking.

Do you believe that you make your own opportunities? Napoleon Hill said, “The world has the habit of making room for the man whose actions show that he knows where he is going.” I believe that.

Years ago I woke up one morning wondering why I wasn’t writing for a major newspaper. Hey, I was really good at what I did, why didn’t I have a regular column? So I sent both the National Post and the Globe and Mail emails (to their respective money editors) asking for a column. The Globe gave me one, which I wrote for… I dunno… maybe a year, maybe a year and a half.

My email talked about the fact that I was a well-known and well-respected financial writer, it detailed my successes (books, other columns, and the like) and then it asked for what I wanted: my own column.
Maybe the difference between getting what you want and not getting what you want simply boils down to asking.

In sales lingo, it’s called “going for the close” and it’s a big factor in the success or failure of salespeople to get the order. I believe it’s also a big factor in our personal success.

What was the worst that could happen if both the Globe & Post said, “No thanks?” I wouldn’t have had a column. But I already didn’t have a column so that downside was non-existent. They could think I was “nuff nuff”, as they say in Jamaica. But I’m way past worrying about what anyone else thinks.

The upside was that I would get a column, some more exposure, and a venue to help people hear The Word. Turns out someone said yes!

Some people believe that they could no more do what I did than fly. Well, here’s what Henry Ford had to say about creating your own reality: “If you think you can do it, or you think you can’t do it, you are right.”
I believe with all my heart that we can each do anything we want, if we want it badly enough and have some gumption. But you have to believe that you are the author of your fate. You have to KNOW that you are going to achieve what it is you’ve set your heart on.

As Francis Bacon said, “A wise man will make more opportunities than he finds.”

No one ever said getting what you want is easy. Sometimes it’s damn hard. But if your follow these five steps, you’re much more likely to succeed: DANCE!

D – Decide. What do you really, really want? You must be clear and absolutely committed.
A – Act. Nothing will happen if you aren’t prepared to DO WHATEVER IT TAKES.
N – Notice what you’re doing. Is it working? What isn’t working?
C – Change. You must be adaptable. You must be willing to accept new information and alter course if that will get you to where you want to be.
E – Evaluate. Measure your success. Take pride in your accomplishments. Decide if you are still on the right track.

Did you notice that we’re back to DECIDE? Yup, the whole process is a cycle. You need to stay on it, and you need to follow through.

I’ll leave you with one final pithy saying:
“Be careful what you wish for, for you shall surely get it.”

***See more of Gail's links on my Making Ends Meet tab!

Walgreens Trip 12/10/10: Using up register rewards about to expire!

2010-12-11T13:15:00.001-06:00

I purchased:

3 Disney toys on sale for $5.99 each = $17.97

6 rolls Hallmark wrapping paper BOGO free = $5.97

22 Zone bars on sale for $.99 each = $21.78

12 Snickers nutcrackers on sale 3/$1 = $4

3 Nerds on sale $3/1 = $1

Subtotal before coupons = $50.72

I used:

2 $3/2 Mars Holiday coupons = -$4

22 $1/1 Zone coupons = -$22

1 $.50 Hallmark wrapping paper coupon = -$.50

4 $3 register rewards = -$12

$4 register reward = -$4

3 $2.50 register rewards = -$7.50

Subtotal after coupons: $.72

Sales tax: $5.31

Total: $6.03

Received back:

$15 Jingle Cash for purchasing $75 worth before coupons/sales

$5 Jingle Cash for purchasing 6 Hallmark items

Final cost: $9.53, which is less than the regular price of 1 of the Disney toys

(I figure my final cost by adding the register rewards/jingle cash used to pay to my total, then substracting out the jingle cash earned)

Walgreens Trip 12/10/10: Profit $1.73!

2010-12-11T13:03:00.001-06:00

Purchased:

6 Hallmark tissue paper $3/1 = $2

3 Nerds $3/1 = $1

Subtotal before coupons: $3

Used 2 $1.50 register rewards= -$3

Subtotal after coupons: $0

Sales tax: $.27

Total $.27

Received back $5 register reward for purchasing 6 Hallmark products

Final cost: profit of $1.73!

Walgreens Trip 12/9/10, profit $10.33!!

2010-12-11T12:57:00.003-06:00

I purchased:

9 Beneful dog food: on sale 3/$5 = $15

3 Duck packaging tape @ $1.19 each = $3.57

6 Hallmark tissue paper on sale 3/$1 = $2

36 Snickers Nutcrackers on sale 3/$1 = $12

Subtotal before coupons = $32.57

I used: 8 $2/1 beneful coupons = - $16

3 $1/1 Duck packaging tape coupons = - $3

6 $3/2 Mars Holiday candy coupons = - $12

1 $.99 register reward = -$.99

Subtotal after coupons = $.58

Sales tax = $3.10

Total = $3.68

And I received back:

$10 Jingle Cash for spending $50 before coupons & sale prices!

$5 Jingle Cash from Hallmark for purchasing 6 Hallmark items!

Final cost: Profit of $10.33!

My small by sweet super awesome Walmart trip! Final cost $3.06

2010-12-11T12:47:00.001-06:00

I purchased:

Olay gift basket: $10.00

Olay lotion: $5.97

2 Pictureka card games $5.00 each

4 Duck packaging tape $1.08 each

I used:

BOGO Olay body wash get lotion free: -$5.97

4 $1/1 Duck brand packaging tape: -$4.00

2 $5/1 Pictureka card game: -$10

Subtotal $10.32

Tax: $2.74

Total $13.06

Plus the Olay gift basket comes with a certificate for a 1 year subscription to Allure magazine, but if you don't want the magazine subscription, you can submit for a $9.99 rebate check, which is what I am doing.

So final cost: Just $3.06!

And the Olay gift basket had several coupons in it!

Suede comforter for just $1.99, 2-bag cooler set for $1.49, 3-piece cosmetic bag set for $1.49!

2010-12-11T12:05:00.003-06:00

Just go to the link below at One Stop Plus.com and add this sueded comforter to your cart.

It is on sale for $6.99, down from $39.99!

Then enter the promo code CHNEG5 to score an extra $5 off.

Standard shipping is free!

Final price, just $1.99!

http://www.onestopplus.com/clothing/Sueded-comforter.aspx?PfId=199411&DeptId=21692&ProductTypeId=1&PurchaseType=G&pref=ps

Or you can try this deal:

Purchase this 3-piece cosmetic set on sale for $3.99, down from $34.99

And this 2-bag cooler set on sale for $3.99, down from $34.99

Then apply the CHNEG5 discount code.

Your total will be $2.98 with free shipping!

The coupon code can help you score several other great deals as well.

Check out the site!

Lego set for only $9.80!

2010-12-10T12:00:00.000-06:00

Thanks so much to http://www.iheartthemart.com/ for this awesome deal on a Lego set at Walmart! Check out his blog for even more Walmart deals!

Here is a picture of the lego set:

Basically, you buy the Lego set for $29.00

The bonus is that you also get a $20 e-gift card to use online only at WalMart.com

Choose ship-to-store option for free shipping.

My tax was only $.80.

In the end after the gift card, I'll pay only $9.80 for this Lego Set.

Awesome deal!

12/10 Freebie Samples Roundup!

2010-12-10T11:44:00.002-06:00

For a free sample of True products, which are flavorings for water in orange, lemon & lime, just visit:

Truelemon

For a free sample of Whey to Go Protein powder, just visit:

Protein powder sample

For a free sample of Natural Dynamix gummy vitamins, visit:

Gummy Vitamins

Buy Giftcards from Dillons equals $1.00 off per gallon of gas!

2010-12-09T22:35:00.001-06:00

Ok, if you are going to shop at Home Depot, or one of the many other stores that you can buy giftcards at Dillons for, you should stop by Dillon's first and purchase giftcards there and use them to pay at the store.

Why?

Because you get fuel points! Lots of them! Pete was going to Home Depot anyway, so he purchased $250 in giftcards as Dillons. This gave him 1000 fuel points because they have a 4x points promotion right now on gift cards.

1000 points = $1.00 off per gallon

$1.00 off per gallon = $35 off at the pump when he fills up his gigantic truck!

Awesome deal! Check it out!

Mega Madness! 65 items for $2.78!!

2010-12-09T22:27:00.001-06:00

Dillons, mega sale time! We just had a mega sale in November, but now they are running another one! A mega sale at Dillons/Kroger is when they have mega items that are on sale, then when you purchase 10 of these items, you get an additional $5 off your purchase!

Mega Items:
6 Betty Crocker brownie mixes @ $1.49 each = $8.94

6 Gillette Deoderants @ $3.50 each = $21.00

6 2-Liters Sierra Mist @ $1.29 each = $7.74

2 Orville Reddenbachers popcorn @ $2.49 each = $4.98

10 Wolf Chili @ $1.25 each = $12.50

10 Carnation Evaporated Milk @ $.99 each = $9.90

10 BumbleBee premium tuna @ $.99 each = $9.90

Non-mega sale items:

5 Tic Tacs @ $1 each = $5

2 EverReady flashlights @ $1.25 each = $2.50

Bananas @ $.49/lb = $.49

Apples @ $1.00/lb = $.87

6 Suave Deoderants @ $.88 each = $5.28

Subtotal = $89.10

- 5 x $5 mega discounts = $25
- 3 $1/2 Betty Crocker Brownie coupons = $3 (promotional coupon booklet)

- 4 $2/1 Gillette deodorant coupons = $8

- 6 $1/1 Sierra Mist coupons = $6 (promotional coupon booklet)

- 2 $.50/1 Orville coupons = $2 (from the blinkie machine right in front of them)

- 2 Buy 2 Get 1 Free deodorant coupons = $8.98 (they gave regular price, not sale price)

- 10 $.50/1 Wolf Chili coupons (doubled) = $10 (they had coupons right in from of these for $.50/2!)

- 5 $.50/2 Carnation Evaporated Milk coupons = $5

- 10 $.55/1 BumbleBee Tuna coupons (doubled) = $10 (blinkie machine coupons from a couple weeks ago!)

-       5 $.75/1 Tic Tac coupons (doubled) = $5
-       2 $1/1 any Energizer brand battery or flashlight = $2
-       6 $.50/1 Suave deodorant coupons (doubled) = $6.00

Subtotal = -$1.78
Sales tax = $4.65
Final total = $2.87, for 65 items!

Earned 89 Fuel Points!!

I only expected to get $3.50 each for the BOGO Gillette deodorant coupons, so I had expected my subtotal to be $.20 + the $4.65 in tax, I expected to pay $4.85. I try to never ever have my subtotal go below zero! Some stores won’t allow this, so I just try to be safe at all stores & not make cashiers worry that must have done something wrong. Getting the full price on BOGO coupons at Dillons, and other stores, are hit & miss. Some will give you the full price because they feel that the sale price is “their” discount they are giving so you should still get it. The store will get reimbursed from the manufacturer whatever amount they write on the coupon, up to the coupon’s maximum value. Other stores, even other Dillons, will only give the sale price. I never expect the full price, but I am always very happy when I get it.

I feel that this is a small trip that could easily be duplicated and can be accomplished by just getting 6 papers per week. Several of the coupons were from the blinkie machines in the store or promotional booklets. It’s always a great idea to grab those blinkie coupons when you walk by them and hang out to them until they expire because usually the product will go on sale in a couple of weeks. Also, keep your eyes peeled for booklets from different stores or advertisers because these have coupons in them a lot of times.

And a reminder: If you have the coupons for a product that would make it free, or just a couple cents, and you won’t use the product, please consider buying it and donating it to a food pantry, school, church, or other nonprofit! Someone else may really need those items.

Free Offers! Prilosec, Garnier, Slim Fast!

2010-12-09T11:04:00.002-06:00

Just click the link below to find out how you can get a free sample of Prilosec OTC. If you are a daily user of Prilosec, it can really save some money by getting free samples for a few days! You can also print a coupon to use for your next purchase!

Free Prilosec sample

Click on the link below if you are a Sam's Club member for a free Slim-Fast Peanut Butter Crunch Bar!

Slim-Fast offer

Click on the link below for a free sample of Garnier Fructis and to print a coupon!

Garnier Sampe & Coupon!

Printable Coupon! $5 off $25 purchase at Dollar General!

2010-12-09T10:43:00.001-06:00

Just click on the link below to be able to print a coupon for $5 off a $25 purchase at Dollar General. Valid 12/11/10 only!

$5 off $25 purchase coupon!

Free Seattle's Best Coffee Sample

2010-12-08T09:57:00.001-06:00

Just click on the link below to sign up for a free sample of Seattle's Best Coffee!

It doesn't get much better than free!

Free Sample

Free Sample of Nescafe Taster's Choice

2010-12-07T13:32:00.001-06:00

I like to do free samples for a couple of reasons.

1) Try new products for free!

2) Sometime the samples are shipped with coupons! And usually the coupons have long expiration dates!

3) If it's something I won't use/try, I can either donate it or add it as fillers in gift baskets!

Here is a link to try Nescafe Taster's Choice! taster's choice

Just fill out the info & samples will be on the way!

Brita pitchers for only $8 each at Walmart!

2010-12-06T12:34:00.001-06:00

Brita pitchers are at Walmart for $26.00 each. If you go to www.filterforgood.com, you can pledge to reduce bottled water waste and get a $5 coupon off the pitchers, which you should be able to print twice (hit back, refresh).

Wal-mart also has a mail-in rebate available here: Wal-Mart mail-in rebate form.

Here’s the breakdown of the deal:

Purchase 2 Brita pitchers @ $26.00 each = $52.00

Use 2 $5 off coupons - $10.00

Pay $42.00 out of pocket and then submit for the rebate to get $26.00 back!

Final cost is only $16, or just $8 each. Sounds like a great buy 1 and keep it & buy 1 to gift deal to me!

Rolling catalina coupons at Target!

2010-12-06T12:07:00.001-06:00

A catalina coupon is one that prints out of the little coupon machine at the checkout. Certain products trigger specific coupons to print. Sometimes the coupon will be for an item you purchased, sometimes for a competitors items, some may be a store coupon while others will be a manufacturers coupons. Sometimes the coupons will seem to be 100% random and sometimes it may just be an advertisement or notice about an upcoming special.

Currently at Target there are 2 catalina coupons that have been "rolling" for me. This means that when I buy a product, it prints out another coupon for it, even if I use the exact same coupon on that trip.

Target has 4 packs of GE light bulbs for $2.99. When you buy a box, a coupon will print for $2.00 off! So if you buy another pack, you can pay and use that coupon & another coupon will print! To make the deal even sweeter, there is/was a target store coupon available to print from Target's website. I'm not sure if it is still available. If so, it is for $1.50/1 and you can combine it with the $2 off coupon! For the first transaction, you can use the $1/1 manufacturer coupon from the 11/21 Smartsource to get the deal rolling!

The other coupon that is rolling is $.75/1 any Up&Up brand feminine product. This is/was also available as a Target web coupon to print. They have different pantyliners for just $.89 each. Use this coupon to get them for $.14. Each time you buy 1 another coupon will print that you can use on your next transaction!

Just a funny I found!

2010-12-05T20:10:00.003-06:00

Free Snickers Nutchrackers at Walgreens this week!

2010-12-05T18:34:00.001-06:00

Here's the deal:

In the 12/5 Red Plum coupon insert, there is a coupon for $2 off any 3 Mars Holiday products listed, which includes the Snickers Nutcracker Singles.

Walgreens is having a sale this week and their Snickers Nutcrackers Singles are 3 for $1!

You should definitely be able to get 3 for free with this coupon as it is Walgreen's store policy to adjust the amount on the coupon if it is more than the selling price of the item, but to make it even better, you should actually be able to buy 6 of them free with just 1 coupon!

Awesome free stocking stuffers!

Free Johnson & Johnson 1st Aid Kit!

2010-12-05T18:22:00.001-06:00

Head over to couponnetwork.com and print the $1 off Johnson & Johnson Red Cross coupon! You can use this to score a travel first aid kit. These are just $.97 and can be found at Wal-Mart, Target or CVS!

Dollar General 11/21: $2.18 for 17 items

2010-11-21T22:11:00.001-06:00

Purchased:

12 Libby Vegetables: on sale 3/$1 ($4.00)

2 Gain dish detergent: $1 ($2)

1 Olay body wash: $3

1 Secret trial size deodorant $1

1 package ornaments $2

Subtotal: $12.00

Used:

4 $1/3 Libby Vegetables from the 8/29 RP

2 $1/1 Gain dish detergent from the 10/31 P&G

1 $5/1 Olay when you buy any Secret from the 10/31 P&G

Subtotal after coupons: $1.04 (not sure where the $.04 came from)

Tax: $1.04

Total $2.12 Not to shabby if I must say so.

Dillons/Kroger trips: Pillsbury, Duracell, & Suave!!

2010-11-21T22:08:00.000-06:00

Ok, 2 trips to post.

11/20 Dillon’s Trip: 100% savings!

This is a small trip, just ran in to get the “free” items this week. Just getting 4-5 sets of coupon inserts each week allows you to get these awesome deals!

Purchased:

4 packages of Duracell batteries: on sale for $1.98 (7.92)

4 Suave deodorant: on sale for $.88 (3.52)

4 Pillsbury simply chocolate chip cookie dough: on sale for $2.49 (9.96)

Received $4 off for purchasing 4 participating items (the cookie dough)

Used 4 $1.50/1 Duracell coupons from the 11/14 RP

Used 4 $.50/1 Suave deodorant coupons from the 11/14 RP (doubled)

Used 4 $.55/1 Pillsbury Simply Refrigerated Cookie Dough peelie coupons from the packages (doubled to $1.00)

Plus 2 $1.00 e-coupons came off that I had loaded on my Dillon’s Plus card

Subtotal $21.40

- $19.52 in coupons

$ 1.88

+$ 1.26 sales tax

$3.14

Plus I received back:

$1.00 coupon off my next order for buying 4 Pillsbury items

$3.00 coupon off my next order for buying $25 worth of Duracell (uses regular price)

Actual cost for all 12 items: -$.86!!

#2:

Dillons 11/21: Small but still great savings!

Purchased:

2 Pillsbury pie crusts: on sale for 2.49 ($4.98)

2 Pillsbury Grands Cinnamon rolls: on sale for $2.49 ($4.98)

Subtotal $9.96

Received $4 off for buying 4 participating items

Used:

2 - $.50/1 Pillsbury Grands coupons from the 11/14 GM (doubled to $1.00)

2 - $.55/1 Pillsbury Pie Crust peelie coupons from the packages (doubled to $1.00

After coupons & discount: $1.96

Sales tax $.53

Total: $2.49

Received back $1 off your next order coupon for purchasing 4 Pillsbury items

Final cost for all 4 items: $1.49!!

11/19 Target Trip: $52.60 down to $2.81 (including tax)!

2010-11-21T21:59:00.000-06:00

I had to go to Target because I wanted to use one more of my Rubbermaid Reveal coupons before they expired today.

Here is what I got:

And the breakdown:

Purchased:

1 Rubbermaid Reveal bottle: $3.99

4 Purina Benefuls wet dog food: $1.62 each

3 Febreeze candles: $2.99 each

5 Glade Scented Oil Holiday Scent Candles $2.50 each

4 Olay 2-pk bar soap: $2.49 each

4 Secret trial size deodorant: $.97 each

2 Hello Kitty Bandaids: $.97 each

2 Band-Aids: $.97 each

2 Johnson & Johnson 1^st Aid Kits: $.97 each

2 Tide Travel detergent: $.97 each

1 Doublemint flavored chapstick $1

Subtotal: $52.60

Received $5 Target gift card for purchasing 5 Holiday Glade Items

Used:

5 $1.50 off any Glade Scented Oil Candles from inside the tins purchased last year

1 $5 off any Rubbermaid Reveal product (don’t remember which insert, expires today though)

4 $5/1 Olay when you buy any 1 Secret from the 10/31 P&G

2 $1 any Tide from the 10/31 P&G

2 $3/3 any Johnson&Johnson first aid, Band-Aid or Neosporin products from the 8/1 SS

3 $3/1 any Febreeze candle from the 11/14 SS

Subtotal after coupons: $3.10

Sales Tax: $4.71 (yeah sales tax is charged pre-coupon amounts)

Total $7.81

Subtract the $5 gift card I received and the actual cost was only $2.81 for everything! That's less than what the sales tax was!

Now that is my kind of shopping! Again, just getting 4-5 sets of the coupon inserts each week allows you to score these awesome deals!

$10 off a $10 purchase at Hallmark coupon!

2010-11-20T17:17:00.001-06:00

If you are a mom or are expecting, you can sign up to receive special offers from Hallmark. After you sign up, you can print a coupon for $10 off a $10 purchase! Very awesome deal! Hallmark Sign-up

Hot Coupon Alert: 50% any 1 item at Ace Hardware on 11/27/10

2010-11-19T12:55:00.000-06:00

There is an awesome coupon available on coupons.com right now. It states 50% off 1 regular priced item under $30 at Ace Hardware. It is valid only for 11/27/10. Print yours now from here: Ace Coupon from Coupons.com

I hope you are able to get an awesome deal with this!

Old Navy: 50% off clearance, plus an additional 30% off coupon!

2010-11-18T10:08:00.000-06:00

Today at Old Navy, they are offering an additional 50% off of the clearance merchandise. On top of that there is this 30% off coupon that you can use to score an even better deal. The coupon expires today though, so hurry & see what great deals you find. I would love to see pictures!

Free Duracell Batteries at Dillons/Kroger!!

2010-11-16T09:49:00.001-06:00

At Dillons/Kroger right now there is an awesome deal going on!

Duracell batteries are regularly $3.79 each.

They are on sale for $1.98 each

There was a coupon in this past Sunday's coupon inserts for $1.50 Duracell coppertop batteries.

There is also a Catalina deal going on. If you buy $15 worth of Duracell batteries, you get a coupon for $3 off your next shopping trip.

Here is the deal:

Buy 4 packages of Duracell batteries = $7.92 plus tax of $.68

Minus 4 $1.50 coupons = $6.00

Total is $2.60

Plus, since the regular price of the batteries is over $15, you will get a Catalina coupon for $3 back to spend on anything you want the next time you check out!

Final price: You made $.40 for buying 4 packs of batteries!

Now go do the happy dance & stock up on batteries for Chistmas!

Which coupons from 11/14 Sunday inserts are the good coupons?

2010-11-16T08:59:00.001-06:00

What an awesome week for coupons! 4 inserts! Keep in mind though, that usually there aren't any on Thanksgiving weekend.

I have been couponing for quite awhile. I'm pretty good at spotting good coupons. I am still really surprised sometimes, which is why I keep all of the coupons until they expire. You never know when a store will have an awesome sale or something could get clearanced that you can match a coupon with. Even if it is something you won't use, you could always donate it, especially if it is free.

These are my best guesses at which coupons from the 11/14 Sunday inserts will result in the best deals:

Red Plum #1:
$.50/2 Carnation evaporated milk (expires 12/31/10) Today is the last day to get them FREE at Dillons!
$1.00/1 Any California Pizza Kitchen product (expires 12/31/10) Check Target & Walmart for best prices!
$.55/1 Nestle Coffee-Mate powder creamer (expires 2/6/11)
$2/2 Purina Friskies or Purina Whisker Lickin's cat treats (expires 1/16/11)
$1.50/1 Duracell CopperTop batteries (expires 12/31/10) Awesome deal going on right now at Kroger/Dillons (see my other post!)
$.75/1 Oral-B pulsar, crossaction, advantage or any 2 Indicator or Cavity Defense manual toothbrushes (expires 12/31/10)
$10/1 Oral-B Vitality or other rechargable electric toothbrush (expires 12/31/10) FREE at CVS this week!
$5/1 Oral-B Replacement brush heads 3-ct or greater (expires 12/31/10) $5 at CVS this week!
$2/1 any Olay Facial Cleanser (expires 12/31/10)
$1/1 Rhodes breads or rolls (expires 2/28/11)
$1/1 Morton Sea Salt product (expires 12/31/10) Probably free at Walmart, I picked up a big container at Dillons/Kroger for only $.50 last night
$.50/1 Herbal Essences or Aussie shampoo, conditioner, or styling product (expires 12/31/10) Only $.49 at CVS this week!

Red Plum #2:
$.50/1 Skippy peanut butter (expires 12/12/10) I will be watching Hyvee for this one!
$.30/1 Shedd's Country Crock spread (expires 12/12/10)
Free pasta when you buy 2 Ragu pasta sauces (expires 12/12/10)
$.50/1 Suave deoderant (expires 12/12/10) FREE at Kroger/Dillons right now!
$.40/1 Lipton Cup-a-Soup or Lipton Soup Secrets (expires 12/12/10)

SmartSource:
$.50/1 Kraft sandwich shop mayo (expires 12/31/10)
$1/1 Nabisco Crackers (expires 1/2/11)
$.75/1 Sister Schubert's product (expires 2/14/11)
$.50/1 Reames frozen product (expires 2/14/11) Watch for a Dillons/Kroger $10/10 sale. This will double to be free.
$.40/1 New York brand frozen product (expires 2/14/11)
$1/1 Colgate Total or Sensitive toothpaste (expires 12/4/10) Likely to be free at Walgreens or CVS. The Total is BOGO free at CVS this week and you can use two coupons to get them both at a great price!
$1/2 Bags Hershey's Kisses (expires 12/31/10) There is a Target store coupon out that can be combined with this one.
$1.50/1 Huggies diapers (expires 12/11/10)
$2/1 Huggies Little Snugglers or Little Movers diapers (expires 12/11/10)
$3/1 Air Wick Candle (expires 12/26/10) some scents are FREE at Target right now!
$1/3 bags Birds Eye vegetables (expires 12/26/10) on sale for $.88 at Dillons/Kroger right now!
$.25/1 Blistex lip care product (expires 1/31/11)
$.75/1 Reynolds Wrap Foil (expires 12/31/10)
$.45/1 Archway brand cookie variety (expires 1/31/11)
$1/2 Ziploc brand bags (expires 1/2/11)
$1.50/2 Ziploc containers (expires 1/2/11)
$1/1 Chloraseptic product (expires 3/15/11)
$1/1 Command product (expires 12/31/10)

General Mills
Most of the Pillsbury coupons are really good. Just wait until they are on sale & at a store that doubles, but here are my favorite ones:
$.50/1 Pillsbury Grands sweet rolls (expires 2/5/11)
$.40/2 Pillsbury refrigerated sweet rolls (expires 2/5/11)
$.40/2 Pillsbury crescent rolls (expires 2/5/11)
$.50/2 Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers frozen vegetables
$.40/1 Progresso broth (expires 1/8/11)
$.75/2 Toplait Gogurt (expires 1/8/11)
$.40/1 Betty Crocker cookie mix (expires 1/8/11)
$.50/1 Bisquick (expires 1/8/11)
$.50/1 Chocolate Chex mix (expires 1/8/11)

Again, these are just the coupons that I expect will result in great buys. I wanted to post this just to help anyone just getting started to see what coupons are likely to be used. Get your inserts, cut out and organize your coupons, and then wait for a sale! I do recommend getting multiple copies of the inserts. Ask friends, family or coworkers for their leftovers if newspapers are too expensive in your area. Also remember that coupon values are regional and can vary from paper-to-paper even in the same region, so if you didn't get these exact values, that is pretty common.

My 11/15 Target trip. Saved $50.32, spent $5.86!

2010-11-15T22:29:00.001-06:00

We needed waffles, so off to Target we go...

We purchased:

2 boxes Eggo waffles $1.89 & $2.14

2 Rubbermade Reveal replacement bottles (for the mop, which works great!) $3.99 each

6 Johnson & Johnson 1st Aid kits $.97 each

12 Band-Aids, 8 ct. $.97 each

8 Meow Mix $.45 each

18 The Goodlife Recipe cat food $.77 each

1 package stirrers $2.39

1 photo cube (Christmas present) $1

1 Christmas tree grow kit (stocking stuffer) $1

I used

6 $3/3 Johnson & Johnson/Band-Aid coupons

18 $1/1 The Goodlife Recipe coupons

4 $1/2 Meow Mix coupons

2 $5/1 Any Rubbermade Reveal product

My subtotal was $1.32

Tax was $4.54

Grand total $5.86!

Total Savings $50.32 or 91%!