I Heart Faces Week 3 - We are family

This week the I Heart Faces Challenge is "We Are Family".  Here is my entry....

I was trying to get that perfect shot for our Christmas card and it just was not working.  My older two were not willing to smile easily but my baby gave it all she was worth! 

Be sure to head over to I Heart Faces to see all of the wonderful entries!

Super *HOT* Deal on All Laundry Detergent

*Update:  I was able to get 15 bottles of All for just under $10 by price matching at Target.  I also went to a local Walmart and was turned down because they stated that Big Lots is a discount store.  I have called all of the other Walmarts in our area and they have all agreed to take it.  I guess it is just the luck of the draw.   I hope you got yours!

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Starting tomorrow at Big Lots, All Laundry Detergent will be on sale 2/$5.  There are coupons available from the 01/03 RP insert for $2/1 detergent 32 oz or higher.   Don't have a Big Lots close by?  Walmart and Target both price match so using this coupon will get you laundry detergent for 50 cents a bottle!  This is a WHOO-HOO deal! 

Now, this coupon did not run in my neck of the woods but are available on ebay for a really decent price.  I was able to get 15 coupons for right at $2.  So, using this coupon and the price I paid for them, I will get 15 bottles for 63 cents each.

Our area (mid-atlantic) received coupons for $1/1 32 oz or bigger.  Other areas received coupons for $3/2 32 oz or bigger.  So, it is possible to get this deal also for $1 per bottle or $1.50 per bottle.  Still a great deal!

(The specifics on the sizes All - 2X 50 oz, All 3X 32 oz)

The Laundry is Alive!

I put it off too long.  The laundry.  I can get it washed, dried, and in the baskets but perhaps I take a little too long to put it away.  It's taken on a life of it's own!

Oh, wait, it is just my cutie Goosie

A Different Kind of Giveaway with PW

One of my absolute favorite blogs is by Ree Drummond, The Pioneer Woman.  Have you ever heard of her or checked out her blog(s)?  I check them...way too often.  I swear you can feel your waistline bulging just from reading how much butter she puts into her recipes-which all look absolutely divine.
She also homeschools, which is how I first learned about her.  She also is a photographer and takes wonderful, a day in the life photos of life on the ranch.

She is known for her giveaways.  Kitchenaid Mixers, books, Amazon giftcards, dishes, etc.  Today she is holding a giveaway, but a different kind.  All you have to do is leave an entry.  She will randomly choose two winners and donate $500 to the Haitian-related charity of the winner's choice.  She is also going to donate $0.10 for every entry received on this giveaway to a (3) Haitian-related charities.  As of 2:33 p.m. est, there were over 9200 entries.

So, take a moment and go to her site and leave a comment, thought, prayer, etc.

(borrowed picture from Ree Drummond, Pioneer Woman)  

A thrifty way to save money - negotiate

Have you ever thought about negotiating medical bills?  I had an emergency room visit in October and although my insurance paid most of the balance, I was still stuck with a hefty little (ok, not so little) sum.

I contacted the medical facility to see if my balance could be adjusted if I paid in full today.  It was kinda like buying a house, I asked, the representative offered, I counter offered, I was put on hold, and then the representative came back with good news!

I negotiated $76.50 off my balance due!

So, if you have a medical balance due-negotiate.  Most places would rather clear an account than have small increments coming in over several months.  When asking, make an offer that is reasonable.  I owed $376.50.  I didn't ask for half to be removed but a reasonable amount.

Remember that most insurances already take 1/3 to 1/2 off the submitted charges because of your individual plan's allowable amounts.  You are asking for help and in the end if a smaller amount than asked is all the facility can do, be thankful and take it!

Saved today:  $76.50!

I Heart Faces Week 2 - Best Face Photo

I have never participated in the iheartfaces contests before, but there is no time like the present.  So, here is my entry for week two- Best Face Photo:

We were eating Manny's left over birthday cake for breakfast.  I was snapping pictures of his sisters when he decided to get in on the action.  He leaned over and "cheesed" for me.  I love this picture despite his messy mouth.

Be sure to head over to iheartfaces.blogspot.com to check out all of the wonder entries...

A thrify way to save money: Bartering

January seems to be a month in which alot of people are trying to save alot of money on groceries and I have decided to join the bandwagon.  Money Saving Mom has a challenge to only eat from the pantry that has really been inspiring.   In all of my thriftiness,  I have stockpiled many things.  Shampoo, soap, Hormel Chili with Beans, ketchup, canned tomatoes, sauce, and paste, and granola bars.  I also have more razors than any self-respecting woman should have!  But, I am set with these things.  Whew.

However, I am in desperate need of chicken.  It is a staple in our house and I had just used up my stockpile last week and have been waiting for a great sale. 

A friend of mine has taken a challenge to not spend any money this month on ANY household item other than a few perishable items each week.  Having not preplanned this adventure, she found herself out of a few key items on the second day of the month.  Shampoo and coffee flavoring.  Fire alarms go off in my head at the sheer thought of this!  My friend, in her thriftiness and desire to hold fast to her challenge went online and has discovered how to make her own flavoring and shampoo!

We were chatting yesterday and I mentioned my desire of chicken.  It turns out that her freezer is stocked with all kinds of meat and so this item is not a need for her this month.   And she suggested a barter.  I have tons of shampoo, she has tons of chicken.  So-we trade.  What a concept!  Let me scream it:  WHAT A CONCEPT!

She has something that she can spare without sacrificing what she needs for her family.  I have something that I can certainly spare without sacrificing my family needs.   So, we help each other out...did you hear that?  We share in our blessed abundance.  We share!

Maybe you have a church family that you could barter with once a month.  Bring in your abundance of canned goods (either homemade or store bought) and ask another family or group of families to do the same.  You never know who has a ton or Hormel Chili with Beans that they would love to off load for some of your stockpile of Ketchup or canned peaches.

Now, I am not talking about taking away from your families needs or what you would need to get through several weeks.  But come on...what am I going to to do with my six bottles of ketchup and fifteen cans of chili in the next two months besides look at them.  And we all know that sales come around and we will (if we continue to be blessed) stock up on all of these things all over again.

Now...who needs some chili because I could really use some chicken noodle soup!

Christmas Pictures

One of my husband's favorite Christmas gifts is a photo album filled with pictures from the year.  It is so fun to then look at our pictures from each year and remember the things that we did...the way the children were and have grown...and trips that we took. 

If you are like me, I take a thousand (respectfully) throughout the year.  I might take the kids to the park and take 324 of them sliding, climbing, and running.  There might only be 10 of those 324 that I really like.  And the same thing happens over and over...324 pictures put on the computer...I only like 10-12 of them.

So here is what I do.  I make a new folder in my picture application for pictures for that year.  When I find an awesome picture, I put it in that folder and then by the end of the year, I have the best of the best to put in the album.  But another great idea is to have those photos set aside so when a great picture deal comes available,  I know exactly which ones to get prints of.

An awesome idea for a T-shirt

I love that I can meet new people through this blog and share in their creativity!  I have gotten so many wonderful ideas and I ran across one that has to be pure genius today.  Seriously, why can't I come up with things like this?

I found a blog called Sit, Relax, and Read, and the author, Cha Cha.  She has made the most adorable snowman T-shirts for her children.  Here is a picture (I am just borrowing a picture from her blog)

For complete directions on how to make this adorable shirt, please visit her blog here.  And don't forget to leave her a comment.  For more wonderful DIY ideas, visit A Soft Place To Land.

In A New Light...

Tealights.  I love them.  I have been burning them non-stop on my mantle in champagne glasses and other little fluted glasses that I picked up at the local Goodwill.  I love the soft glow that it gives to everything.

This morning I was looking at the empty little tins that the candles come in and thought that there must be a use for them.  So here is what I came up with...

I made these adorable ornaments!  I simply cut the tin with scissors and then used an awl to punch a hole for the hanger.  Then my daughter (7 years old) thought to punch them.  The "G" is for her name.  They make such a beautiful addition to our homemade ornaments and the lights twinkle so wonderfully off of them!

"Inspired"

I went to visit my dearest and longest best friend over Thanksgiving.  Just a little background on that....we met when our oldest children were 4 months and 8 months old.  We were instant best friends.  Soul mates.  She and her family moved five hours away about a year and a half later.  We were both devastated.  However, for the last 5 years we have coffee over the phone almost every morning.  We count on each other to either call or be called at 7:45 am.  We laugh, we share trials, we lift each other up, we are a shoulder to lean on, we are a confidant, we share crazy, silly conversations, we are....in the fullest sense of the word....sisters.

My friend, Malinda, is the most wonderful decorator.  She pulls and puts things together in ways that I can only awe at.  After our visit, I became inspired to finally put something on an empty wall in our living room (for 10 years we have lived here).  I was on the phone and internet with her...taking pictures and emailing them....waiting for her to get the pictures and then making changes she would suggest.  Then more pictures emailed....more suggestions....and this is what we came up with:

I got the idea for the shelves from Pottery Barn as seen the picture below...

These start at $35.00 at pottery barn.  My husband was able to make them out of scrap wood (cherry, walnut, pine...things that were leftovers from other projects).

And here is one last idea...I took a picture of my children's hands in the snow

Put in a sweet frame and it is a different approach to a yearly picture.

Let It Snow - Part 1 & 2

We are in for a winter wonderland treat this weekend.  Usually, where I live, we get maybe one good snowfall a year, totally maybe 6 inches.  But over the next two days we are suppose to get at least a foot!  One foot of snow seems like a lot of fun.  And it will be.  Until we get cabin fever!

Updated at 3:15ish....this is one hour later...

But, I thought I would chronicle the snowfall on my blog...so at 2:15 p.m. EST, the snow started...

My front steps

My side yard

A warning about Redbox

Have you tried Redbox yet? I have loved that I can rent a movie for $1 a night and that even if I don't make it out during my day, I am still only charged $1 nightly for each additional night. Loved it!

Here is the big "but..." in my post. Did you see it coming? A couple weeks ago, I returned a movie to a local Redbox and the DVD became lodged in the machine, far enough in that it could not be pulled back out. I can't tell you the relief I had when the machine finally took the DVD and the person behind me who had been waiting so patiently as I panicked was able to get their movie.

I contacted Redbox when I got home and had not received and email from them stating that my movie had been returned. Here is what I was told:

If a DVD is returned and the kiosk does not read the barcode on the disc or there is some other type of malfunction with the machine, the DVD will most likely fall to the bottom of the kiosk. Once a week, a technician will go to the kiosk and check for this type of DVD. At that time, the DVD will be scanned as returned and your credit card will be charged for every day that it was in the machine. This means that if you return your DVD on time, there is a malfunction, and the technician does not come for 6 days, you will be charged $6 for the time that it was in the machine.

Please be careful and make sure that you either see on the screen when you return your movies that the DVD was successfully returned or register online so that you will receive a verification email. I was able to have the DVD marked returned as a courtesy-one time.

Cyber Monday-*HOT* $5 MP3 Album Downloads

Here is another awesome deal that I found at Amazon that is only available today....there are over 500 MP3 Albums available for download. Not one or two songs off of an album but the whole shoot and shebang!

Head over here to check out all of the albums available. There are songs available in every genre so I am sure that you will find something that you like!

Cyber Monday-*HOT* Real Simple only $5

Throughout the day as I find deals, I will post them here so check back often!

Today only at Amazon.com, you can get a year subscription to Real Simple Magazine for only $5. Wow! I love this magazine and this is such an awesome deal!

This is a savings of 90% off of the regular subscription and would make an absolutely awesome Christmas present to anyone. Amazon does this awesome thing of stating that they are "Eligible for Free Super Saver Shipping". Magazine subscriptions always ship free, and they help you qualify for FREE Super Saver Shipping on the rest of your order!

Spinmaster Micro RC Amazon Deal

While supplies last at Amazon, you can get a Spinmaster Micro RC Terrain Titans Hot Shot for $17.99. But to sweeten the deal, this week Amazon is running a promotion to Buy One and Get One Free. Simply add two of the vehicles (there are several different colors to choose from) into your shopping cart and the discount will be given at checkout.

However, to sweeten the deal even further....these toys are eligible for free Super Saver Shipping! When you add the two toys to your cart, the total amount due, before discounts, is over the $25 minimum purchase so you do not have to pay shipping on these either!

You get two for $17.99 or $8.99 each!

Opinion Needed on two toys....

I am looking for toys to hold my son's interest and give him a way to use up some of his never ending energy. I have found these two toys and was just wondering if anyone has one and/or could share your opinion on them.
















This is the Hot Wheels Super Jump and it looks awesome. But is it durable? Can a four year old use it?

















And this is the Fisher Price Smart Fit. See? It plugs into the TV and the game is contained in the mat. It looks awesome but I just am not sure.

I would appreciate any opinion that can be shared! Thanks!

Kroger Deals starting 11/15

Here is a listing of the current deals that I found at my local (mid-atlantic) Kroger yesterday. These deals were found by actually walking the store, not from any other source. Coupon match-ups were obtained by using Coupon Mom. My Kroger doubles coupons up to and including 50 cents. Make sure to check your local Kroger's coupon policy.

Betty Crocker Cookie Mix $2.00
Coupon Avail:
40 cents/1 (10/25 SS & 11/15 GM) or here, here, or here
Final Price: $1.20

Betty Crocker Frosting 3/$5
Coupon Available:
50 cents/1 (10/25 SS & 11/15 GM) or here, here
Final Price: 67 cents each

Betty Crocker Cake Mix 10/$10

Coffee Mate Creamer 32 oz 2/$5
Coffee Mate Creamer 16 oz $2.35
Coupon Avail: 50 cents/1 (11/01 RP)
Final Price: $1.35 - $1.50

Dole canned Pineapple 10/$10
Coupon Available: $1/3 (11/08 SS)
Final Price: 66 cents wyb 3

Domino Sugar 2 lb bag $2.59
Coupon Available:
30 cents/1 (08/30 RP) and 50 cents/2 (11/15 RP)
Final Price: $1.40 to $1.50 wyb 2

Edwards Frozen Desserts $4.99
Coupon Available: $1/1 (11/15 SS)
Final Price: $3.99

Grands Frozen Biscuits 2/$5
Coupon Available: 75 cents/2 here
Final Price: $2.13 each wyb 2

Hellmann's Mayo $2.49
Coupon Avail: 60 cents/1 (11/15 RP)
Final Price: $1.89

Kraft Shredded Cheese $1.79

Lipton Tea Bags:
24 Family $2.35; 48 count $2.19; 100 count $3.39
Coupon Avail: 50 cents/1 (11/15 RP)
Final Price: $1.19 - $2.39

Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner $2.00
Coupon Avail: 50 cents/1 (11/08 SS)
Final Price: $1.00

Mrs. Smiths Frozen Pies $2.99
Coupon Available: $1/1 (11/15 SS)
Final Price: $1.99

Pam Non stick spray 2/$5
Coupon Available: 35 cents/1 (11/15 RP)
Final Price: $1.80

Sister Shubert Frozen Breads $2/5
Coupon Available: 50 cents/1 (11/15 SS)
Final Price: $1.50

Sun Crystals $3.39
Coupon Available: $2/1 (09/20 RP)
Final Price: $1.39

Wanchai Ferry Frozen Entrees $6.99
Coupon Available: $1.50/1 here
Final Price: $5.49

Ziploc Containers, various $2.50
Coupon Avail: $1.50/2
Final Price: $1.75 each wyb 2

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Disney Sparkle Princess Barbie Doll $4.99 ($11.99 orig)

20 Free Downloads from iTunes

Go here to become a fan of iTunes on Facebook and get 20 free songs included in the Fall Sampler.

Super Duper Cheap Hasbro games at ToyRUs

Toys R Us and Hasbro Game Night have teamed up to bring an awesome deal for the holidays! Hasbro is offering a rebate of up to $69 on some of its most popular games when purchased at Toys R Us.

This week Toys R Us is offering a $10 gift card when you purchase $25 dollars in participating Hasbro games.

There are alot of scenarios to play with depending on what games you are interested in. Be sure to take a copy of the Hasbro rebate form with you when you go to ToyRUs-you have to buy the exact version of certain games in order to receive the rebate. Also, only one rebate per game/per household and only one rebate check per household. For complete details go here

Cheapest deal: Games will be 57 cents each

Buy 7 of each of the following Hasbro games priced at $3.99 each

• Candy Land
• Chutes & Ladders
• Memory
• Hi-Ho Cherry-O
• Ants in the Pants
• Don't Break the Ice
• Regular Cooties
• Don't Spill the Beans

Spend $27.93 and receive a $10 giftcard*
There is a $2 rebate available for each game listed above on the rebate form. Mail in rebate for a total of $14

Final price after gift card and rebate: $3.93 or 57 cents each! Even if you don't need all of these games for Christmas these would make great birthday presents for the upcoming year or to give to local toy drives!

*Gift Card valid beginning 6 hours after activation and expires 12/31/09

Thanks to Money Saving Madness for the great info!

Great Toy Deals at Amazon

As Christmas gets closer, deals will start popping up all over the place and there isn't a better place to start than at Amazon. The free shipping that is offered (on most items for purchases of $25 and higher) added to the gift cards that can be won through Swagbucks makes for pretty sweet deals. If you have not started using Swagbucks as a search engine or have thought that it is not worth your time, let me tell you it is! In the last two months, I have "won" enough Swagbucks from simply using the Swagbucks search engine (powered by google) to now have $20 in free gift cards to Amazon. But, there are so many prizes to win through Swagbucks that you really owe it to yourself to go and check it out! Try it, use it, be consistent, and you won't be disappointed!

Down off my soapbox...sorry.

Here are some current deals that I found at Amazon:









Giga Pets Explorer $8.99
(List Price $39.00 save 78%)










Hooked on Phonics Hip-O's Menu Match 79 cents
(List price $15.99 save 95%)










V Tech-Whiz Kid Learning System
Thomas & Friends $2.79
(List Price $19.99 save 86%)

















Mattel Disney Camp Rock DVD Game $1.95
(list price $20.99 save 91%)

Halo SleepSack $2.99 at Woot

Today only at Woot, you can score one of these Halo Sleepsacks for only $2.99 with $5 shipping. This would be a great baby shower gift!

Electronics Savings starting Saturday at Walmart!

Beginning at 8 a.m. Nov. 7, Walmart will have its first of many special electronics savings events, which includes a week of amazing prices on electronics items at stores through Nov. 13.* Items for this event include:

• $298 HP Notebook Computer – 3GB memory, 250 GB hard drive, Windows 7 Premium
• Sharp 1080p HDTVs – 42” for $498, 46” for $698 (120 Hz), 52” for $898 (120 Hz)***
• Panasonic 46” 1080p plasma HDTV for $788***
• Xbox 360 Arcade Console $199 with $100 Walmart Gift Card (for use on future purchases; minimum store quantities are at least 10 per store)
• $148 Sony Blu-ray player (model #BDP-S360)
• $29 Magnavox Upconvert DVD player (model #DP170MGXF, 1080p)

To access the complete press release, go here or go here to get information directly off of Walmart's website.

The information listed above was obtained directly from the Walmart fact sheet.

Kroger 4 Day Sale beginning 11/04

Kroger is running a special 4 day baking sale starting today, 11/04. There are several good deals to stock up on....

Eggland Best 18 count Eggs B1G1 Free
Coupon Available: 35 cents/1 (9/13 SS & 11/01 SS)
*Kroger generally reduces each item by half and charges you for both items. If this is the case for the eggs, 2 coupons can legitimately be used for this purchase.
(no price is listed)

Karo Syrup $2.49
Coupon Avail: 40 cents/1
Final Price: $1.69 each

Fleischmanns Yeast strips 3 pk $1.50
Coupon Avail: 50 cents/1 pk
Final Price: 50 cents each

Mueller's Pasta $10/10
Coupon Avail: 55 cents/2
Final Price: 73 cents each wyb 2

These prices are only good until Saturday. My Kroger doubles coupons up to and including 50 cents. Be sure to check with your local Kroger to make sure this promotion is offered and for your local coupon policies.

A $20 Thanksgiving meal offered by Walmart

Starting today, November 4th, Walmart is offering the opportunity for everyone to enjoy a complete Thanksgiving meal for right at $20. This isn't a prepared meal that you get from the deli section either but all of the fixings that you pick out yourself and then take home and prepare. Or, if you have been blessed this Thanksgiving season, to pick up and present to another family in need so that they also can celebrate Thanksgiving.

Here is what is offered for $20

• One 12-pound Grade A turkey*
• Three 11 to 15.5-ounce cans Green Giant vegetables
• Two 14-ounce cans Ocean Spray cranberry sauce
• Three 6-ounce boxes of Stove Top stuffing
• One 5-pound bag of red potatoes
• One 12-count package of Sara Lee dinner rolls
• One 22-ounce pumpkin roll cake

*Turkeys are being offered at 40 cents/pound

This will surely bless alot of people and give them alot to be thankful for.

a huge thanks to It's Hip To Save! and to check out Walmart's press release, go here

6pm.com shoes-WOW!

I recently came across a website called 6pm.com that sells clothing and shoes at huge discounts. No, wait, you don't understand. I mean HUGE discounts. HUGE! Shipping is always only $6.95 and the deals are out of this world.

For example:

Today only, all men's Rockports are on sale for $19.95 (MSRP $50-$175)
Today only, all women's Rockports are on sale for $14.95

There is also a section called "Smokin Hot Deals" and I might just have to snag these for myself






Gabriella Rocha, $12.95 (MSRP $76.00)







Fitzwell, $9.95 (MSRP $53.00)

Great Magazine Deals at Amazon

Amazon currently has a promotion on magazines that make them at least 50% for a one year subscription

Get Real Simple for $23.68 for a year (a savings of 56%)
Get Good Housekeeping for $7.97 for a year (a savings of 73%)
Get Country Living for $10.00 for one year (a savings of 79%)
Get Women's Day for $9.99 for one year (a savings of 79%)
Get Family Circle for $14.97 for one year (a savings of 50%)

Plus many more priced at an awesome price

But wait! Through the end of November, you will receive an additional $5 off per magazine at checkout! That means that a year subscription will be available for some magazines for as little as $2.97. Also, magazines are always shipped for free!

What a great jump start for Christmas presents!

15% off Coupon to The Children's Place

The Children's Place is having an awesome sale right now, take an additional 50% off all ready reduced merchandise. As an added bonus, click here to get a coupon to use for an additional 15% off!

There are some items as low as $1.49 but hurry! Items are going fast!

Kroger Deals starting 10/25

This coming week at Kroger, there is another Mega 10 Event. During this event, purchase any 10 participating items and receive $5 off your total bill, or 50 per item. The sale add does not state how many times this promotion can be used per transaction, but typically it is three promotions.

The following items are listed as participating items for the Mega 10 event:

Aquafresh
Sale Price: $2.50
Promo Discount: 50 cents item
Coupon Available: 50 cents/1 & $1/1 (09/20 RP0
Final Price: $1.00

Coke or Diet Coke 2L
Sale Price: $1.29
Promo Discount: 50 cents item
Final Price: 79 cents each

Del Monte Canned Tomatoes/Mandarin Oranges
Sale Price: 99 cents
Promo Discount: 50 cents item
Coupon Avail: $1/5 (09/20 RP)
Final Price: 29 cents each/wyb 5

Fritos
Sale Price: $1.95
Promo Discount: 50 cents item
Final Price: $1.45

Gatorade 32 oz & Propel 24-24 oz
Sale Price: 99 cents
Promo Discount: 50 cents item
Final Price: 49 cents each

Kellogg's Cereal, select varieties
Sale Price: $2.69
Promo Discount: 50 cents item
Final Price: $2.19

Lays Potato Chips, select varieties
Sale Price: $2.28
Promo Discount: 50 cents item
Final Price: $1.78

Lean Cuisine
Sale Price: $1.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents item
Coupon Available: $1/3
Final Price: $1.15 wyb 3

Quaker Instant Oatmeal, Select varieties
Sale Price: $2.69
Promo Discount: 50 cents item
Coupon Available: $1.25/2 (08/30 RP)
Final Price: $1.57 wyb 2

Stouffers Frozen Entrees
Sale Price: $1.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents item
Final Price: $1.49

Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa Mix
Sale Price: 99 cents
Promo Discount: 50 cents item
Final Price: 49 cents

Sunny Delight
Sale Price: 99 cents
Promo Discount: 50 cents item
Final Price: 49 cents

Tombstone Pizza
Sale Price: $2.49
Promo Discount: 50 cents item
Final Price: $1.99

Tylenol 20-24 ct Select varieties
Sale Price: $3.00
Promo Discount: 50 cents item
Coupon Avail: $3/2 (09/13 RP), $1/1 (09/13 RP)
Final Price: $1 - $1.50

Fisher Price Trio deal at Target-correction

***The coupon is only good for a purchase of one item that is priced $10 or more. So sorry about that!

This week at Target, the Fisher Price TRIO blocks are on sale for $8 a box. You can go here and print off a $5/1 coupon to get this toy for $3! This will make an excellent Christmas gift or even better, a great give for Operation Christmas Child!

Coupon is here, limit two.

Awesome Nature Valley Granola Deal at Kroger!

This week at Kroger (mid-atlantic) Nature Valley Granola/Nut Clusters are on sale for 4/$10. However, there is a special promotion that if you purchase 4 boxes or bags (or any combination) $4 will be taken off of your total purchase.

This means that the bars then become $1.50 each. However, to sweeten the deal, there are coupons available for 40 cents/1 box of bars which will be doubled to 80 cents/1 box. These make the bars 70 cents a box! There are also $1/1 bag of nut clusters which will make the clusters 50 cents each!

If you don't have the paper coupons, there are also coupons available here and here, for the bars and here, here , & here for the clusters.

What a great time to stock up on these products!

Superman Cape - HOT Amazon Price

Today you can get this superman cape from Amazon for the superhero price of only $3.99 which usually sells for $17.99 (a savings of 78%). This would be perfect to add to a halloween costume. I would suggest that you read the reviews on this product before you purchase it. Although it has received 4 1/2 stars...it is still a great idea to check out what others have said first.

Go to Amazon and check it out!

Saving money on Leap Frog items

It is that time of year...the leaves are turning, it is chilly at night, Christmas displays are already up at my local Wallace World. Yep, time to start thinking about toys.

This year as a treat for our two older children, we have purchased them Leapsters. We found them on a super-duper clearance at Wallace world (particularly because Leapster 2 seems to be the rage) and we were even able to get one pink and one blue one!

If you have ever priced the games that go along with these great toys, you know that they run around $25 a game. Yeah. So here is my saving alot tip for today.

Ebay. Ebay. Ebay, ebay, ebay, ebay, ebay, ebay.

To date I have been able to get 3 games, all around $9 each. Plus, on one of them, I got free shipping! This is an awesome way to stock up on other toys too. Check for dolls, geo tracks, games, Legos, Thomas, all of the things that you might want are probably there.

As always, know what a good deal is. Make sure that you check the prices on what you are looking for in various locations-including Amazon first. But, if you find a good deal, snag it!
Check it out!

Butterfly Garden Habitat *HOT* price

Have you ever wondered how a butterfly comes out of the chrysalis? Well, here is your chance! Today at Woot.com they have the

Insect Lore Butterfly Garden Live Butterfly Habitat for $4.99 +$5 shipping

This would make a great deal for Christmas presents-especially since you can purchase three of them and still only pay $5 shipping! From what I understand, you purchase the netting home and then send a card (included) off in the spring to get the chrysalis'.

Kroger Deals starting 10/04

First off, is it not crazy to think that October is here? Wow! Ok, on with the deals

This week Kroger has a mega 10 event for frozen foods. Purchase any 10 participating items and receive $5 off your total purchase or 50 cents per item.

Green Giant Steamers
Sale Price: $1.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Coupon Avail: 40 cents/1 (10/4 GM)
Final Price: 69 cents each

Boca Patties (select varieties)
Sale price: $3.89
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $3.39

Aunt Jemima Breakfast meals
Sale Price: $1.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $1.49 each

Frescheta Pizza (select varieties)
Sale Price: $4.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Coupon Avail: $1/1 (03/13 SS)
Final Price: $3.49 each

Boston Market Meals
Sale Price: $1.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $1.49

Healthy Choice Entrees (select varieties)
Sale Price: $2.27 - $1.96
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $1.46-$1.77

Mrs Smiths Pies (select varieties)
Sale Price: $3.49
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $2.99

Sara Lee Simple Sweets (select varieties)
Sara Lee Coffee Cake
Sara Lee Pies
Sale Price: $3.49
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $2.99

Edward Singles
Sale Price: $1.99
Promo Discount: 5o cents
Final Price: $1.49

Yoplait Smoothies (in frozen section)
Sale Price: $3.29
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $2.79

Marie Calendar frozen entrees (select varieties)
Sale Price: $2.27
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $1.77

Pepperidge Farms Texas Toast (select varieties)
Sale Price: $1.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Coupon Avail: 40 cents/1 (10/04 RP)
Final Price: 69 cents

New York Toast
Sale price: $2.49
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Coupon Avail: 40 cents/1 (10/04 RP)
Final Price: 1.19 cents each


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Here are other deals to be found this week:

Green Giant boxed veggies
Sale Price: 4/$5
Coupon Available: 50 cents/2 here
Final price: 75 cents a box (wyb 2)

Pilsbury Toaster Strudels
Sale Price: $1.99
Coupon avail: 55 cents/2 here or here

Stouffer Entress (select varieties)
Sale Price: $1.99

Stouffers Lean Cuisine
Sale Price: $1.99
Coupon Avail: $1/3 (09/13 RP)
Final Price: $1.65 (wyb 3)

Bertolli Frozen Dinners
Sale Price: $5.99
Coupon Avail: $1/1 (10/04 RP)
Final Price: $4.99

Sun Crystals
Sale Price: $2.49
Coupon Avail: $2/1
Final price: 49 cents

Lea & Perrins Thick Worcestershire Sauce
Sale Price: $2.99
Coupon Available: $2/1 (09/27 RP)
Final Price: 99 cents

Keebler Right Bites
Sale Price: $1.99

Coupon Avail: $1/2 here
Final Price: $1.49 each (wyb 2)

Arm & Hammer Liquid Laundry Detergent (33 Load)
Sale Price: $2.99


My Kroger doubles coupons up to and including 50 cents. Please make sure to check with your local Kroger for the coupon policy in place.

A good deed challenge

You know, I have alot of friends who are Moms. Ok, almost all of my friends are Moms. Maybe they are really experienced and all of their chickens have flown the coop. Maybe they are in the tweens and teens stage and can look at where I am with fondness (3 children, 7, 3, 1). Or maybe, they are right with me and we share the same concerns, heartaches, challenges and joys on a daily basis.

Regardless of where my friends are with their lives we all share one thing in common. A feeling of being overwhelmed. Now, don't get me wrong. I am not talking about feeling overwhelmed everyday. Also, the feeling of being overwhelmed might not even be about children. We all have matters that come roaring or creeping into our lives that leave us just trying to survive each day: a sick child, a sick parent, marital trouble, job problems, busyness, etc.

So here is my challenge-one that I am also going to do and will report back, when you talk to a friend who shares a feeling of being overwhelmed, do a good deed for them. Easy? Yes. Complicated? No.

1. Fix dinner and just take it to your friend. Don't ask if you can, they will most likely decline. Usually that kind of deed is saved for illnesses or new babies. But sometimes, if you plan your own meals and budget for one extra meal, you can really bless someone. Call the day you plan on taking it and just ask about their day. Maybe it isn't a good day or maybe they are going out of town. But, if it sounds like a good day just tell your friend that you are bringing dinner. Nothing complicated, just something to take one thing off of your friends list.

Or, if it is not possible to get to their house due to your own schedule, have a pizza delivered. Or chinese. Or what ever else will deliver for a good price.

2. Offer to babysit. Wow! This one would be huge to me. I homeschool and so my babies are always with me. Grocery shopping is so incredibly hard. But it is also defeating to me to have to pay a babysitter just so I can go and spend money to eat. Or, how hard is it to go to the doctor with three children in tow?

3. Chocolate and coffee. In the cooler fall weather, pick a day that is going to be cool and drop off a chocolate treat and if you add in a cup of joe (that she did not have to make) she will love you forever. For me, there is something calming about wrapping my hands around a paper cup full of coffee.

4. Send a card. It is so simple. But sometimes a card "just for fun" can turn a day around.

There are a thousand other ways that you can do something for your friends. Try it. It might just make your day!

Kroger Deals starting 09/13

I think that most people received the booklet in the mail with the handy list of all of the products that are involved in the Kraft/Nestle promotion.

For the next two weeks, when you purchase participating Kraft/Nestle products IN ANY COMBINATION OF 10, you will receive $5 off your total purchase which equals 50 cents/item. Here are the sale items from the Kroger flyer with coupon matches if applicable.

Beneful Dog Food
Sale Price: $1.49
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: 99 cents

Capri Sun
Sale Price: $1.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $1.49

Coffee Mate Creamer
Sale Price: $2.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Coupon: 50 cents/1 (06/28 RP)
Final Price: $1.99

DiGiorno Pizza
Sale Price: $4.47
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Coupon: $1/1 (several)
Final Price: $3.47

Edy's or Dreyers Ice Cream
Sale Price: $2.99
Promo discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $2.49

Jello Instant Pudding or Gelatin
Sale Price: $1.27
Promo discount: 50 cents
Coupon: 50 cents/2 (07/26 SS)
Final Price: 54 cents for two

Juicy Juice 8pk or 64 oz
Sale Price: $2.49
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Coupon: 50 cents/2
Final Price: $1.49 with coupon

Kool-Aid Jammers
Sale Price: $1.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $1.49

Kraft Cheese Singles
Sale Price: $1.49
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Coupon: $1/2 (08/09 RP)
Final Price: 49 cents with coupon

Kraft Shredded or Bar Cheese
Sale Price: $1.49
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: 99 cents

Kraft Easy Mac Cups
Sale Price: $1 each
Promo discount: 50 cents
Final Price: 50 cents

Kraft Salad Dressings
Sale Price: $1.69
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Coupon: $1/1 (Promotion Flyer)
Final Price: 19 cents

Lean Cuisine Entrees
Sale Price: $1.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Coupon $1/3 (09/13 RP)
Final Price: $1.15 each with coupon

Lean/Hot/Croissant Pockets
Sale Price: $1.99 each
Promo discount: 50 cents
Coupon: $1/3 (09/13 RP)
Final Price: $1.15 each with coupon

Oreo Cookies
Sale Price: $2.49
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $1.99

Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh Lunchmeat
Sale Price: $2.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $2.49

Oscar Mayer Fully Cooked Bacon
Sale Price: $2.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Coupon: $1.50/2 (08/30 S)
Final Price: $1.74 each with coupon

Oscar Mayer Fun Pack Lunchables
Sale Price: $2.49
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $1.99

Oscar Mayer Meat Bologna or Cotta Salami
Sale Price: $1.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $1.49

Oscar Mayer Meat Wieners
Sale Price: $1.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Coupon: $1/2 (08/23 SS)
Final Price: 99 cents with coupon

Planters Peanuts
Sale Price: $2.49
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Coupon: $1/2 (06/28 SS)
Final Price: $1.49 with coupon

Purina One Cat food
Sale Price: $4.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Coupon: $3/1 (09/13 RP)
Final Price: $1.99

Ritz Crackers
Sale Price: $2.49
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $1.99

Stouffers Entrees
Sale Price: $1.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $1.49

Triscuit
Sale Price: $2.20
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $1.70

Skinny Cow Frozen Treats
Sale Price: $2.99
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $2.49

Velveeta 2lb pkg
Sale Price: $4.49
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Coupon: $1/1 (08/09 RP)
Final Price: $2.99

Velveeta Shells & Cheese/Deluxe
Sale Price: $1.49
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: 99 cents

Wheat Thins
Sale Price: $2.20
Promo Discount: 50 cents
Final Price: $1.70

American Girl DVD deal

Hurry! At the American Girl Shop, you can currently get the following four DVD's for $5 each:

• Kit Kittredge: An American Girl DVD
  
• Molly: An American Girl on the Homefront DVD
  
• Felicity: An American Girl Adventure DVD
  
• Samantha: An American Girl Holiday DVD

These DVD's are normally priced at $19.95. I just ordered all four as a Christmas present for Little Cheese (never too early to start and it will be here sooner than we think!) I was able to get all four for $24.95, including shipping! This is like buying one at regular price and getting three for free!

(thanks to Keeping the Kingdom First for the deal info)

Free MP3 Downlaod from Amazon

Today Amazon is celebrating the milestone of surpassing over a million followers on the Amazon MP3 Twitter feed by giving away a free download. Go here for full details. This is a great way to add to your music library-for FREE!

Free American Baby Subscription

If you are expecting you can go here to get a free subscription to American Baby.

Ohhhhklahoma! ( I think...)

Ok, have you heard about the Pioneer Woman? I love, LOVE, did I mention LOVE the Pioneer woman...aka Ree or PDub?

Her website is a daily adventure into her life on the frontier with her cattle ranching husband (fondly know as the Marlboro man) and her children. She has several aspects to her blog including cooking (butter...you had better love butter), homeschooling, home and garden,and photography. I check it a thousand times a day.

She also hosts fabulous giveaways on her blog- Kitchen Aid mixers, Zunes, Nikon Cameras, china, the goodies are mind boggling!

Well, Just thought I would share one of my favorite blogs...go check it out!

Free Chick-fil-a Sandwich!

If you love Chick-fil-a, go here to register. If you are one of the first 250,000 to do so, you will get a coupon for a free chick-fil-a sandwich (via USPS). Also, on Labor Day wear your favorite team's logo and get another free sandwich, 10:30 a.m. to close.

It's beginning to get alot closer to Christmas!

My mind has shifted to Christmas mode, has yours? I have switched to Christmas mode-start buying toys/clothes/other items as they come up for clearance. If I purchase a couple things a month by Christmas I will have a nice stash of things for the kiddos!

One way to catch a good deal on items is to check the clearances available on Amazon on a daily basis. Prices change daily so it is important to check, check, and recheck. Today, my awesome deal was on the Wild Planet Hyper Jump,



This toy will be excellent for my son and daughter both to play and I saved over 73% off! It retails for $34.99 and I snagged it for $5.95! To sweeten the deal, I was able to use a $5 gift card that I won using Swagbucks, so I paid $6.44 including shipping. If you have never heard about Swagbucks, go here.

I will be sure to share any sweet deals that I find!

Walgreen's 25 prints for 25 cents!

Today only you can get 25 digital prints from Walgreen's for 25 cents, even existing customers. Upload your photos to Walgreen's photo center and then when you are ready to check out, enter the coupon code PENNY.

If you choose to pick up your pictures instead of having them mailed, you will save even more! I ordered mine and with tax only paid 27 cents for 25 pictures!

Thanks so much to one of my favorite blogs, Money Saving Madness for this deal!

Are You Coupon Savvy? Share it!

Are you coupon savvy?
Are you completely organized and ready to handle any "sale" emergency?
Are you just starting out and wondering how to maintain your stash of coupons?
Are you coupon frenzied?

Today, while at the grocery store quick trip (desperate for a Dr. Pepper and some type of other sugar) I ran in without any coupons. I only had a moment and only had $11 cash in hand so I knew I wouldn't be trying to catch a deal.

As I was walking back to the cash register, I saw her. My heart started racing and I knew that I had to speak to her. Only I am not a good one to approach someone I don't know. But there she was, holding coupons like she was playing a really hard card game. She had a manila folder that contained all of her coupons and I knew, just knew, that I needed to share my unsolicited advice.
(I hope that if "she" is reading this, that she snagged an awesome deal! She was a sweetie!)

Anyway. I followed her for a few minutes, trying to work up the courage to say something. I chickened out. Then, I got in the checkout aisle next to her. It took several tries but I finally managed to stumble over my words as they came out of my mouth...

"...have you ever tried a binder to help with your coupons?" Tentative smile from her, she was busy trying to make sure she had all those coupons right, but I continued. "I bought a three ringed notebook binder and some baseball card holder sheets." She is really paying attention now and I felt better about speaking to her, "the coupons fit neatly." We spoke for a few more minutes, sharing tips and ideas. It was lovely.

We all have tips, tricks, advice and thoughts on how we coupon. If you are a binder queen or folder queen, I am sure that you have secretly shared that nod or smile of "I know what you are doing" with another couponer who shares your same organizational style.

Let me put a challenge out there: if you see someone floundering at the store, rifling through numerous coupons while trying to shop...offer them advice on how you do it.

Another great one: If you see someone purchasing something that is on a superduper sale and you happen to have an extra coupon, share it. It can really make someone's day.

Kroger deals starting 08/16

Ok, here is the scoop. Just to remind you, I get my flyer on Fridays as part of a special program through my local paper. I have not scooped this information off the internet or any other site.

The Mega Ten event: Save $5 (or 50 cents per item) off your transaction when you purchase any combination of the participating items in increments of 10, no limit listed per transaction.

The FINAL PRICE listed is the sale price, minus the Mega promotion (MP), minus any available coupons.

Mega 10 event participating items:

SOBE Juice: 99 cents
(MP) 50 cents
FINAL PRICE: 49 Cents

Life Water: 99 cents
(MP) 50 cents
FINAL PRICE: 49 cents

Pepsi 2 liter product (select varieties) 99 cents
(MP) 50 cents
FINAL PRICE: 49 cents

Green Giant canned veggies (select varieties) $1.25
(MP) 50 cents
FINAL PRICE: 75 cents

Hamburger Helper: $1.39
(MP) 50 cents
Coupon: 75 cents/3 (08/09 GM)
FINAL PRICE: 64 cents each (buy three to use coupon)

Pillsbury Grands $1.49
(MP) 50 cents
Coupon Avail: 35 cents/1 (07/12 SS)
FINAL PRICE: 29 cents each

Pillsbury Cresent $1.49
(MP) 50 cents
Coupon Avail: 50 cents/2 here
FINAL PRICE: 40 cents each (buy 2 to use coupon)

Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls $1.49
(MP) 50 cents
FINAL PRICE: 99 cents

Green Giant Steamers $1.69
(MP) 50 cents
FINAL PRICE: $1.19

Progresso Soup: $1.69
(MP) 50 cents
FINAL PRICE: $1.19

Gatorade Singles: $1.75
(MP) 50 cents
FINAL PRICE: $1.25 each

General Mills Cereals $1.99
(Cocoa Puffs, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Cheerios, Capt'n Crunch listed)
(MP) 50 cents
Coupon Available: $1/2 (Cinn Toast Crunch and Cocoa Puffs only)
FINAL PRICE: $1.49 w/o coupon, 99 cents each if coupon used (buy 2)

Quaker Life Cereal: $1.99
(MP) 50 cents
FINAL PRICE: $1.49

Betty Crocker Pouch Cookies: $1.99
(MP) 50 cents
Coupon Avail: 40 cents/1 here
FINAL PRICE: 69 cents

Betty Crocker Brownies: $1.99
(MP) 50 cents
FINAL PRICE: $1.49

Pillsbury Toaster Strudel: $1.99
(MP) 50 cents
Coupon Avail: 55 cents/2
FINAL PRICE: $1.22 each (buy 2 to use coupon)

Tostitos Chips/Salsa: $2.38
(MP) 50 cents
FINAL PRICE: $$1.88 each

Quacker Instant Oatmeal: $2.49
(MP) 50 cents
FINAL PRICE: $1.99

Nature Valley Granola Bars: $2.49
(MP) 50 cents
Coupon Available: 70 cents/2
FINAL PRICE: $1.64 each (buy 2 to use coupon)
****There is also a catalina deal avail for these granola bars:
Buy (3) get $1.50 off next shopping trip
(4) get $2.50 Off next shopping trip
(5) get $3.50 Off next shopping trip

Fiber One bars: $2.49
(MP) 50 cents
Coupon Available: 40 cents/1
FINAL PRICE: $1.19 each

Dole 100% juice: $2.49
(MP) 50 cents
FINAL PRICE: $1.99

Yoplait Kids Yogurt: $2.49
(MP) 50 cents
Coupon Avail: 35 cents/1 or 75 cents/2
FINAL PRICE: $1.29 - $1.61 each

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Real Fans Get Real Savings Promotion: Save $5 instantly off transaction when you purchase $15 of the participating Unilever products listed below. This means 30 cents will be taken off each item. The Final Price is the price with any available coupons, and Real Savings (RS) of 30 cents.

Hellmann's Mayo $2.49
(RS) 30 cents
Coupon Available: 60 cents/1
FINAL PRICE: $1.59

Breyers Ice Cream: $2.27
(RS) 30 cents
FINAL PRICE: $1.97

Ragu Pasta Sauce: $1.49
(RS) 30 cents
Coupon Avail: $1.25/3
FINAL PRICE: 77 cents each (buy 3 to use coupon)

Lipton Tea (100) count: 2/$6
(RS) 30 cents
Coupon Available: 50 cents/1
FINAL PRICE: $1.70 each

Lipton Tea Family (24 bags) 2/$4
(RS) 30 cents
Coupon Available: 50 cents/1
FINAL PRICE: 70 cents each

Shedd's Spread Country $2.34
(RS) 30 cents
FINAL PRICE: $2.04

Free Kellogg's/Keebler Products with Rebate! Hooray!

In last Sunday's paper there was a special insert called "Fuel for School" and was absolutely loaded ( I mean whoo-hoo! loaded) with great coupons for Keebler and Kelloggs products. There was also a rebate form to receive a $10 rebate when you purchase participating items all in the same transaction.

This week at Kroger, there is a Kellogg's & Keebler Promotion:

Purchase any four participating items and save $4 off your total bill instantly at check out, no limit listed. The following items INCLUDE the savings:

Kellogg's Cereals Promotion Price: $1.50
Coupon Available: $1/2 (08/02)
Final Price: $2/2
(Mini-Wheats, Crispix, Fruit Loops, Raisin Bran, Frosted Flakes, Apple Jacks are listed, possibly more are included)

Eggos Promotion Price: $1.50 Each
Coupon Available: $1/2 (08/02)
Final Price: $2/2

Kelloggs Fruit Snacks Promo Price: $1.50
Coupon Available: $1/2 (08/02)
Final Price: $2/2

Rice Krispie Treats Promo Price $1.50
Coupon Available: $1/2 (08/02)
Final Price: $2/2

Nutri-grain Bars, Special K Bars Promo Price: $1.99
Coupon Available: $1/2 (08/02)
Final Price: $2.98/2

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So, you can purchase 10 of the items listed above, using the coupons that were in the special Keebler/Kellogg's insert and spend $10 plus tax*
Purchase them all on the same receipt and send in your receipt with the rebate to get all of the items for free!

*(with the exception of the Nutri-grain bars/Special K bars that are slightly more expensive).

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Maybe I need to clarify what I wrote, it might be a little confusing:

Actually, you will need to purchase 12 items (the Keebler/Kellogg special promotion is only available when you purchase these brands in sets of four). Also, watch your stores sale tags. Not all Kellogg cereals/Keebler cookies are part of the special promotion. Only purchase ones that are marked 4/$10.

With the special promotion, the 12 items will still ring up $2.50 a box ($30) but $12 (three promotions of $4 each) will be taken off your total at the bottom of the receipt. Using 6 coupons will take your total to $12.

The rebate is for $10 off 10 participating products, all purchased on the same receipt (they all happen to be items that the coupons are for in the flyer). So, you are essentially getting 10 items for free or to look at it another way, 12 items for 17 cents a piece.

Watch your receipt for the promotional discount. I was only given two $4 discounts instead of four. Customer service was more than happy to help.

Kroger Deals starting 08/09

First I have to say Happy Birthday to my Little Cheese, who turns 7 on August 9th!

Kellogg's & Keebler Promotion: Purchase any four participating items and save $4 off your total bill instantly at check out, no limit listed. The following items INCLUDE the savings:

Kellogg's Cereals Promotion Price: $1.50
Coupon Available: $1/2 (08/02)
Final Price: $2/2
(Mini-Wheats, Crispix, Fruit Loops, Raisin Bran, Frosted Flakes, Apple Jacks are listed, possibly more are included)

Eggos Promotion Price: $1.50 Each
Coupon Available: $1/2 (08/02)
Final Price: $2/2

Kelloggs Fruit Snacks Promo Price: $1.50
Coupon Available: $1/2 (08/02)
Final Price: $2/2

Rice Krispie Treats Promo Price $1.50
Coupon Available: $1/2 (08/02)
Final Price: $2/2

Nutri-grain, Special K Promo Price: $1.99
Coupon Available: $1/2 (08/02)
Final Price: $2.98/2

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Free Hellmann's 22 oz EZ Mayo when you purchase (1) 2-liter of any Coca-cola company product and 1 pound Private Selection Ham or Turkey

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Pillsbury Promotion: Purchase any 4 packs and receive $4 off your purchase instantly.
Biscuits/Rolls/Crusts 4/$5
Coupons Available: Too Many to List!

$10 in free food from Schwan's (FREE!)

Who can resist the word "Free"? It was enough for me to go and try the promotion currently offered by Schwan's Food. They are giving away $10 in free food to the first 500,000 customers. To qualify, all you have to do is live within a delivery area and have not made a purchase within the last 14 weeks.

I ordered a bag of chicken nuggets (this one was popular and has since sold out) and paid nothing for it. Nothing to have it delivered, nothing, nada, zip, zilch, not a thing!

Now, if you have not taken part of this deal, go here to Schwan's Free Food to place your order. The only thing that I did notice, is that the deal is for one item only. I could not combine two lower priced items that would have equaled $10 or slightly over-the discount was given to only one item.

In addition to getting the great deal on free food, when mine was delivered, I was offered another incredible deal just for trying the free food, which I quickly snagged.

Now, just in case you are not aware and are a little more than skeptical on ordering from Schwan's because "how good could their food be...I'll stick to my grocery store brands...", Schwans is the maker of the following brands: Red Baron®, Tony’s®, Freschetta®, Asian Sensations®, Edwards®, Mrs. Smith’s® and its own signature brand -- Schwan’s®.

A great steak deal

We all have something that we splurge on foodwise. Mine? Soft drinks in the check-out lanes. They call my name really and after spending two hours trying to get the best deals on a month of groceries, I give in way to easily.

This week at Kroger, bone-in strip steaks are on sale for $5.99 a pound. Steak is my husband's splurge. He loves (LOVES) a good steak on the grill and strip steaks just happen to be his all time favorite. As I was looking at the steaks, I found some that were individually packaged that usually cost $10-11 each on sale for $5-6 each. These suckers were huge! I am talking literally huge steaks and on top of that, they were at least an inch thick! Oh my!

So, in all my thriftiness, I had the butcher slice those individual babies in half for me. I picked up four packs, one for each week of the month, and ended up spending $5-6 for two steaks after they were cut in half.

Last night after we got the kiddos in bed, the grill was fired up and we enjoyed our cheap steaks. We paired them with this incredible recipe for potatoes bundles from the Pioneer Woman. We were ridiculously stuffed!

(for my friends who live near me that might want to snag this deal, the individual steaks were located in the single meat cooler that is back by the bacon and lunch meat in the Main Street store)