Thursday, December 31, 2009

Not posted for a few days...

I want to wish everyone a Happy New Year! I will be away from the computer for the next few days. It's the end of a month, so go through those binders and I will see you on the other side of new years!!!

Stay Frugal!

Monday, December 28, 2009

Free Auto Magazine

Follow this link and sign up for a free subscription to Motor Trend Auto Magazine.

Saturday, December 26, 2009

Amazon.com Free Movie Rental

Amazon.com is currently offering a free $4 credit towards anything in their Video on Demand catalog, which includes thousands of movies and shows. The credit is good until 11:59p.m. January 3rd, 2010 (PST).

1. Click here

2. Enter the claim code AVODGIFT in the pop-up window and click the Apply button.

New Rewards Programs gives you free soda!

There is a new rewards program and when you sign up you can cash in the points right away. These coupons are snail mailed to you. I don't know how long it takes.
Go to Recycle Bank http://www.recyclebank.com

Once you have signed up click on “Get Rewards”

Log In. You get 100 pts for signing up.

Then go to the left and select the “grocery & food” category on the left-hand side- click on beverages you can get a $1 off any coke product for 10 points - you can get 10 for the 100 points you earned signing up - add it to your cart and checkout. They will mail the coupons. Then when you shop, find a sale on 2 liter bottles and stockpile!! OR, they have coupons for BOGO Huggies Wipes, or Seventh Generation dish soap or many other items!! Enjoy!!

Free Book from Read it Forward!

Quantities are limited so you may have to hurry, but READ IT FORWARD is giving away free books. There are 3 to choose from. You pick the one you like and sign up. Go to this LINK and click on the book you would like to sign up for.

Start planning...

Well, Christmas is over..but the retailers still want you business. Today many people will head out to the store to get those deals. Most Christmas items will be 50 to 75% off. I am lucky this year. There is nothing I need to buy. Typically I pick up gift wrap and to/from stickers. Last year, I got stuff 90% off so I stockpiled, which means I don't have to buy anything. I found To/From Stickers for 5 cents a package at Walgreens last year, so I bought the whole stack! I still have gift wrap in the package. I will just save it another year. This year, many more people will be out there looking for deals due to the economy. Make sure you know your price points. Gift wrap should be cheap before you buy it. 50% off the full price on wrapping paper isn't always a good deal. Other things to look for are things you can use during the year. I know places like Target will have Christmas pictured paper towels, napkins and ziploc bags and Christmas packaged Klennex and Clorox wipes in holiday themed bottles. Those type of items you can use coupons on along with the store clearance and get some great deals!! Then stockpile them and use the items throughout the year. No one cares if your Clorox wipes have a Christmas pictured wrapper. :)

Also, look for discounted snacks. Many stores will clearance out the crackers shaped like snowflakes or the red and green M&M's. Well, the crackers you can eat even if they are snowflake shaped. The M&M's you can open them up, seperate the red and green into bags.  Freeze. Then, use can use the red candies to decorate for Valentines Day and the Green ones you can save for St. Pat's day candy. :)  Look for soda packaged in Christmas Packaging, many times it's on sale too.

Also, Look for clearance toys and gift. I have already bought for my son's birthday in march. Due to the sales, free shipping offers and clearance. I was able to get him 4 toys for under $20.00. So, his birthday gifts are bought. :) Keep your eyes open for gifts for other people. Keep your prices to under 75% so that your dollar will go farther.

So, be creative...have fun...hope you don't have too many Christmas returns.  Remember living frugally is knowing when to buy and when to save and wait. I have turned it into a life's game!. How much can I put away in my savings account? IS it better to buy this item or save the money? How can I make this money stretch the most.

Also, be careful...Just because it's 50% off doesn't mean it's a great deal. Today I was at Target. They had 50% off the board games. But, full price they were $14.99, so half off was $7.50. These are the same games I picked up BEFORE Christmas for $3.50! Also, if wrapping paper is $4.99, 50% off is not a good deal. Wait. There will be better sales.

I hope you make your upcoming 2010 the best frugal year for you! By being frugal, you can limit the amount of stress the bad economy has on your family.

Stay frugal everyone!!!

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Merry Christmas!

I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Frugal Happy New Year!

Disney Rewards Word of the Day!

The word of the day is Family

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

ConAgra Coupon Deal!

The magazine All You has a deal on their website from ConAgra!

Purchase $10 worth of these ConAgra Foods products and you can receive a coupon booklet worth $25*

Follow this LINK to get more information. :)

Free Taco Bell Fresco Taco

Follow this LINK to print out your coupon for a free Fresco Taco.  The coupon will only be valid for 7 days from when you print it! Limited to the first million coupons!

Disney Rewards Word of the Day is....

Disney
Hope you are getting those points. If you bought any disney movies for your kids, make sure you find the codes inside those DVD's and add it up for more points!!

$132 in Groceries for $34.24


I went to Pick N Save for the double coupon event. I then stopped at Walmart.

Transaction 1:
14 bags of frozen veggies, on sale for $1.00, I had $1.00 off 2 bags, that coupon doubled, making them all free.
2 boxes of Bagel Bites, on sale for $1.50, I had $1.00 coupons that didn't double, paid 50 cents each
2.4 pounds of bananas, on sale for .39 cents a pound!
2 jugs of Milk, on sale for $1.88 each with store coupon
2 rolls of Cinnamon Rolls
1 roll of Crescent Rolls, on sale with the Cinnamon Rolls for 3/$4.98, had double .40 cents off coupons on the cinnamon rolls.
1 Jello Mousse Carmel, Free coupon from Kraftt First Taste.
Total: $48.22
Total after coupons: $8.95

Transaction #2
10 cans of Fruit
6 cans of veggies, assorted varieties, On sale for $1.00 each, had $1.00 off/8 coupon that doubled, if you buy 15 cans you get $5.00 coupon on your next shopping visit
1 package of bowls, on sale for $2.50, had a $2.00 off coupon, paid .50 cents
1 box of Ronzoni, on sale for $1.29, had .75 cent off coupon, which doubles and makes it free
6 bags of frozen veggies, $1.00 each, had coupon for $1.00 off/2, which doubled, making them all free
6 boxes of Bagel Bites, $1.50 sale, $1.00 off coupons, those didn't double
10 packages of lunch meat, 10 for $5.00 sale, I had $1.00 off/5, that doubled so I got 10 pacakges of $1.00!
1 package of butter, on sale with coupon for $1.48
2 milks for $1.88 on sale
2 packages of kraft cheese slices, $2.00 each on sale, had .50 cent off/2 coupon which doubled, so I paid $1.00 a pack.
2 cream cheese, .88 on sale each, had a .50 cents off/2 coupon, which doubled.

Total before coupons: $122.84
Total after coupons: $25.29, and I got a catalina for $5.00 off my next shopping order. :) YEAH!

Walmart:
2 boxes coffee filters
1 box peach tea
1 2 liters of 7 up
5 boxes of snuggle fabric softner sheets, I had $2.00 off each coupons, they were priced $1.87, so those were a MM.
Total $14.33
after coupons: $5.02
Used my shoppers hotline gift card, so I paid nothing OOP.

So, total out of pocket, $34.24. Which comes out to approx. 74% savings. :)

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Double Coupons tomorrow, Dec. 23rd, at Pick N Save!

Hey Southern Wisconsin Shoppers! Pick N Save has double coupons, TOMORROW ONLY, up to $1.00. Limit 10 coupons! They also have a deal 10 cans of Delmonte Fruit or Veggies for $1.00 a can. Use the sunday paper coupon for an even better deal! When you buy $15.00 in Delmonte, you get a catalina for $5.00 off your next shopping order!!!

Monday, December 21, 2009

Swagbucks Starbucks Deal!!

Today only you can get a $10.00 gift card from Starbucks for 100 swagbucks!!!

HURRY!!! International Coffee Creamer Free Coupon!

If you belong to facebook, go to the fan page of International Delight Coffee Creamer. Become a fan, click on the Holiday Giveaway tab and sign up for a coupon for a free creamer!!! Limited to the first 100,000 people so hurry!


Today's Disney Word....

Snowman

Sunday, December 20, 2009

Rayovac Batteries Coupon

If you go the Rayovac Facebook Page, click on coupons and they will email you a coupon for $3.00 off a pack of batteries. You can go to this LINK.

This weekend..

I haven't posted much, with Christmas coming my schedule is so full! Frugally, our mail has been good, we got a $10.00 True Value Gift Coupon from their rewards program in the mail. I also got a RAOK gift. I got 2 gift cards already for Christmas, so we will save those for needs that we may have. Also in the mail I got another $20.00 mastercard gift card.

I am WAY behind on my coupons. I just haven't had the time. I also didn't get another survey done. I have to catch up. I did spend $20.00 at Amazon and picked up 4 more gifts ( but they are for 2010 birthdays, I am done for Christmas).

I have been bringing hot cocoa to work. Trying to keep our spending down. All our credit cards are paid off . I have half of the dental bill paid, so half to go.

How is everyone else doing?

Disney Rewards Word of the Day

The word of the day is Action

Itunes Free Music Download

Sign up on Facebook as a fan of Itunes and get a 20 free song download!

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Great Magazine Deals!

If you want to get some Magazines as gifts, this is a great way to do it!
Go to http://www.bestdealmagazines.com/ , they have yearly subsciptions for as low as $4.69! They will change the magazube deak every day!

Disney word of the day!

Today's word of the dat is GIZMOS

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Christmas Shopping???

If you are still Christmas Shopping, here are so great deals! But, you have to move fast, time is limited (Amazon changes their prices several times a day!) Also, if your Christmas shopping is done, can you use these for upcoming birthdays?

Transformer Race Track $9.99!! (free shipping)
LINK












Jumpstart Leapster Computer $19.99 (free shipping!)
LINK












Twilight Game: NEW MOON  $7.99 (free shipping)
LINK











Lego Viper Racer $4.49 (free shipping)



Girl Gourmet Bakery $9.99 (free shipping)



Rummikub Deluxe Edition $8.69 (free shipping)



Little Pet Shop Tiny Pets Pencil Case Playset $5.99 (free shipping)

High School Musical Dream Date Game $4.49 (free shipping)





Quick Trip to Walgreens and other notes.

I have to use up some RR, so I went over there. I wanted to get the progresso soup deal, but I didn't have any other plans for the RR's.

1 9pack toilet paper
1 package of napkins
3 cans of progresso soup
1 can Axe body Spray
Total: $13.39
after coupons and RR's: $1.82 OOP

I haven't needed to go shopping. Christmas Shopping is done. Already started working on my son's birthday gifts (his birthday is in March). My menu and grocery stockpile is fine. Hubby ran out of body wash this week, thankfully I had plenty in stockpile. I replaced my kids toothbrushes this past weekend, again got from stockpile. So, very little spending going on.

In the mail, I got another Menards refund card and the $5.00 gift card from Kmart from the cereal deal back in August! I now have $30 in gift cards for Kmart. So, I may buy my husband one more christmas gift, but the gift cards will cover that. :) Again, no money spent.

Cashed in some my Swagbucks, I picked up a $10.00 Starbucks gift card ( used it as a thank you gift) and I also got a drinking bottle for myself. So, two more freebies. I am half way to a gift card on Rewards port. If you haven't done Rewards port, click on the link on the right hand column of my page. You do surveys and click on emails. Quick, easy and free!

Other than that, we are keeping warm with our wood burning stove. Another friend offered us all his wood he had in his back yard. We hauled the trailer over and picked up on load. We hope to get another load if it warms up a bit. But it's free wood and keeps the stove running. :)

Kellogg's Movie Deal

There has been many great deals out there on Kelloggs/ Keebler cookies and crackers.
Check your boxes! IF they have the DVD movie token on it, you can save the tokens. Collect 5 tokens and get a free DVD movie ( from a participating list of movies!) You can get more information, just click on this LINK.

Disney Rewards Secret Word

Today's secret word is GFORCE

IP Coupon for Meow Mix

There is a  75 cents off of  Meow Mix. Follow this LINK and print one out!

Sunday, December 13, 2009

WOW...it finally happened...

I couldn't sleep. I sat down and wrote out the bills. Within this month, just as our goal stated, we paid off the FINAL credit card, but we also paid off my car! Which means we own both vehicles. We are debt free from all credit cards and car payments. We still have a home equity...that is the next goal for us! We also are saving to have 6 months of expenses saved up. We have 3 months now. I am still working LOTS of odd jobs to have extra money. I am pet sitting, teaching a class on couponingand any other odd job I can find. My husband is picking up some side jobs too.

I am kinda in shock! This has been an on going process for 8 years. During those 8 years, we had lots of set backs and thought we would never make it to this day!!! My husband broke his leg, has been laid off a few times and I have had dental work, college bills and we both have been trying to give our kids a good, happy life. My husband continues to look for a job. I have no idea what the future holds for our family, but it's by God's grace that we are finally feeling free from our heavy debt load!!!

Also, we are ready for Christmas...and no credit card was used in the process!!

Stay Frugal Everyone!!!

I will write more later..I am tired...but I feel so good!!!!

Great Deal at Kmart this week!!!

If you have a Kmart nearby!
They have Playskool toys on Page 11 of their ad for $10.00 each! If you look at my coupon bar to the right of my blog, there are $5.00 off coupons for the Mr. Potatoe head and the Swing and Score Baseball toy! So, these toys would be $5.00 after coupon!! Great christmas gift!

Also, they have the My Little Pony Playset, $24.99 and there is a $5.00 off coupon on the right side of my blog. So, it would be $19.99 after coupon.

More good deals!!

Saturday, December 12, 2009

Denny's Free Peppermint Pancakes

Become a fan of Denny's on facebook and you will get a coupon for Free Peppermint Pancake Puppies.  You can follow this LINK.

Friday, December 11, 2009

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Freebies and Good Deals

There is so many freebies coming through my kids schools right now.  If you have elementary school kids, you may want to ask the teachers if you school participates.
The first one is McDonald's Happy Meals. The child reads 10 books and gets a coupon for a free Happy Meal. Second Book It from Pizza Hut. The teacher sets up the rules. This month my children have to read a certain number of minutes. The third is Subway. They have a Reading Rocks program. Read 500 minutes in the 5 weeks and get a free Kids Meal. And finally, our local water park has a reading program too. The children have to read so many minutes to get a free water pass!! So, my kids are reading about 25 minutes to 2 hours when then get home! They want those freebies!!

Second, If you do Swagbucks, they have a free code for 1 point if you go through all the special offers. Just click "skip offer" so you don't get roped into anything.

Third, Disney Rewards is doing double points today, so whatever points you may have ( including the 5 points from their family special today). Also, use the code HEART for an extra 100 points!

Beyond that, I got my give card from MyPoints. I cashed in some swagbucks for a cool water eco safe water bottle and another Starbucks gift card! :)

IP Coupon for $1.00 off one box of General MIlls Cereal

Follow this LINK to a IP coupon for $1.00 off  General Mills Cereal!

Free Olay Body Lotion

Oil of Olay has a Quench Body Lotion Rebate. Follow this LINK to get the rebate form. Limit up to 2 forms per address.

More Free Christmas Music! Itunes Downloads!

Itunes now has free christmas music! Download it at this LINK.

Dinsey Rewards Word Of the Day!

The word of the day is GUINEA PIG.

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Disney Rewards word of the Day

The word of the day is SLED.

Bzz Agent Program...

Do you any one who...

• Are over 40 years old


• Are caring for a parent or loved one who is 70+ years old

• Are living in Alabama, Arizona or South Carolina

• Are NOT health care providers
 
BzzAgent, A program I am in, does "tests" of products to see what the consumer likes and dislikes about the product. Currently, They emailed me about a "LifeLine" product. They are looking for new Agents for the Philips Lifeline BzzCampaign and wanted to give you the opportunity to invite friends, family and co-workers to try the #1 medical alert service for free.
 
If you are interested, Post a comment and I will get you the information. You don't get paid for this. It simples allows you to try new products and reports back to them what you think. Youc an earn MyPoints from doing this and also get coupons and deals sometimes from them. If you know anyone who is interested. Let me know!

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Nervous..and Excited....Couponing Class!

In one month, I will be teaching a class on couponing, shopping and being frugal. I am very excited and ALSO VERY NERVOUS! If you live in Walworth County (Wisconsin) and you are interested, it will be on Monday Nights from 6pm to 7pm. January 11th, 25th, February 8th and 22nd. You can take a single class or sign up for all 4.

I have never taught before, but I am very excited to do so. I have come up with some topic ideas. Here are my ideas:

Shopping:
1. Shopping several stores, make a path
2. Loss Leaders and sales
3. Generic vs. Name Brand
4. Other stores beside grocery stores
5. End caps and displays
6. Price Book ( copies of my price book sheets)
7. Menus around those sales
8. Dealing with Store Rules and not friendly cashiers

Coupons:
1. Store coupons vs. Manufacture Coupons
2. IVCs, ECBs, RRs, Catalinas, Wine tags, Peelies, tear pads and others
3. Multiple coupons
4. double coupons
5. matching a loss leader with a coupon
6. dealing with store rules and fine print
7. coupon filing systems , binders and files
8. when is a coupon not a good deal?
9. set up seperate email accounts..why? I will explain
10. coupon karma :)

Freebies
1. samples
2. free sites, the good and the bad
3.  recycling sites
4. always say yes...almost!
5. exchanges and bartering
6. seperate email accounts...why?
7. point programs
8. test drives and other offers
9. refunding

Stockpiling
1. how to stockpile
2. What to stockpile
3. sell by dates, best if used dates, and expired items
4. once a month cooking
5. freezing
6. what to do with extras

If you were going to take a coupon class, what would you want to learn? I am working with two other areas of Wisconsin to give classes in their area too. :)

Jewelry Site for Christmas Gifts

I am going to share a site with you. I am not sure if you will find this a great site or just a so-so site. This site has silver jewerly for Free and then you pay shipping. I have bought from them once and was satisified. I thought this would make some nice Christmas gifts. Shipping it typically $5.00 to $6.00. They change their offers every 15 minutes. I am not a spokesperson for them, I don't know the quality of the jewerly or the stones, I just think some of their jewelry is very pretty and may be a nice gift.

You can go to http://www.silverjewelryclub.com/ if you are interested!

Stay Frugal! :)

Johnson and Johnson IP Coupon

Follow this LINK and you can print an IP coupon for Johnson and Johnson Baby coupon. It is for $1.00 off any size baby shampoo, so you can use it on the trial size and get the trial size free.

Disney Rewards Word of the Day!

For 5 Disney Rewards points....the word is HURLEY

Mercy Me..Free Download!

If you like the band Mercy Me, then you will love this! You can download the entire album for free!! Go to LINK and follow the directions! They will email you a direct link. This is not Christmas music, this is an entire live Mercy Me Album!!! WOW!!! ENJOY!

Monday, December 7, 2009

Disney Rewards World of the day

The word for today is ELF. You can go pick up your 5 points!

$2.00 Snuggle Coupon from the Sunday Red Plum

If  you got this past sunday's Red Plum, There was a $2.00 off coupon for Snuggle Fabric Softner, any size.  If you go to Walmart, they range in price from $1.88 to $1.99 for the small package. Which would make them free after coupon.

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Disney Rewards 5 point word of the day

Word of the day today:  JUAREZ

Keebler/Sunshine Snack deal

If you are heading to Target this week, there is a great deal on crackers and snacks. Cheeze-it, Keebler Fudge Shoppe Coookies and other selected varieties are on sale for $2.00 each. But 5 boxes/pacakges and get a $5.00 Target Gift Card.  You can go to http://www.snackpicks.com/ for some IP Coupons or look through your coupons..there were many Fudge Shoppe coupons in the sunday paper.

For that little boy on your list!!!..LEGOS!!...

Everyone knows that Legos are expensive. But if you look at the right hand side of my blog, there is a $5.00 off Star Wars IP coupon. Print that, and then go to Target. Target has Star Wars Legos on sale for $19.00, making it $14.00 after coupon!!

Saturday, December 5, 2009

Method Products IP Coupon

You can print coupons for Methods Products. It's a $2.00 off coupon, so it should get you some very cheap, maybe free, dishwashing soap or hand soap.

LINK here to coupon! Click on the $2.00 gift for you link and then print your coupon!

Wonderful Stocking Stuffers at the Woman Within!

Here are some great gift ideas at the woman within! If you use Ebates, you can get money back too! Go to this LINK. Also, you may use this with the Parka Coat deal I posted earlier. Tote bags for $2.99, travel sets for $4.99, and a pink watch for $2.99! Great deals!

Also, here are some coupon codes to try too!

Codes: *one code per order*
Free Shipping on any order WW32600 - exp UNKNOWN
50% Off Highest Price Item WW39266 - exp 12/7/09
40% off favorite item WW29216 - exp 12/7/09
$10 off $40, $20 off $80, $30 off $120 WWSHOP1 - exp 1/15/10
40% off highest-priced item with 2+ items WWSHOP2 - exp 1/15/10
20% off purchase of $60+ WWSHOP3 - exp 1/15/10
Take $40 off $150+ WWSHOP4 - exp 1/15/10

Hallmark IP Coupon!

Print this IP COUPON for a Hallmark coupon. The coupon is for $5.00 off any purchase of $5.00 or more! So, if you need a teacher gift and can find a ornament or small gift, this will really help!

Woman's Parka $9.99 after shipping!

Right now, you can order a Woman's Parka, color Wine, for $3.99 with coupon code WW37393. Fleece lined, hood, water resistant.  They only sell larger sizes (XL,1XL,2XL,3XL,and 4XL) but you can get this with any purchase.  Item number--WW54-85589-121.

Here is the LINK!

So far I've been happy with everything I've ordered from them.

Today's Disney Rewards Code

ADVENTURE

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Today's Disney Rewards code

DARWIN

Stopped at Walgreens tonight...

On my way home from work, I stopped at Walgreens.

Quick transaction. All stockpile items.

2 Crest Stages toothbrush ( on sale 4/$10, get a $5.00 RR, I had $1.00/2 coupons from the P&G coupons)
2 Oral B Kids Toothpaste (also part of the 4/$10, get $5.00 RR, had $1.00/2 coupon)
1 Dentek Dental Floss ($2.00 with a $2.00 RR)
1 Goody Hair Elastic Bands ($1.99 with $2.00 RR)

Total: $11.49, then I used the coupons and the $2.50 RR from my last Walgreens Trip so my Total OOP was $8.15. I got $9.00 back in RR's.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Reminder 25 Free Christmas Songs at Amazon!

Everyday they are giving away one free MP3 Christmas song. Today is Tori Amos, Snow Angel. You can get it at this LINK.

Free Aveeno Tote Bag!

Follow this LINK and sign up for a free AVEENO tote bag!

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Amazon's 25 days of Free Christmas Music


Everyday Amazon is giving us one free christmas song! You can go to LINKand grab the mp3s of different christmas songs everyday!

Free Princess and the Frog Movie Ticket with the purchase of $40 at Disney store


Disney Store has a deal right now. Spend $40 and get a free movie voucher to their new movie The Princess and the Frog. Follow this LINK for more details.

Free Betty Crocker Calendar

Here is a LINK for the 2010 Betty Crocker Calendar. IT will have great coupons and recipes in it!

Disney Rewards Codes

Disney will be giving out rewards codes every day through the month of December. Today's Code is HOLIDAY, you get 5 points for this code!

Today ONLY, American Greetings Photo Works

If you go to American Greetings  and you click on the Photo Works logo on the main page, you can sign up for a free holiday photo clutch, 25 holiday cards or a wall calendar. You can pick which one you want. It's limited to the first 20,000 people. So, hurry on this one!

Monday, November 30, 2009

$5.00 Magazine Subscriptions on Amazon

These might make really nice gifts!! Go to LINK to see the different magazines! This deal ends tomorrow!!

Last day of the month!

Print those IP coupons!
Clean out those binders!!
Time for the new coupons to come out tomorrow!!!

Tonight was the end of FPU..

My husband and I finished FPU ( Financial Peace University) tonight. We are more determined than ever to be debt free from our credit cards and car loans!! When we married, we started out with $52,000 in debt from my divorce, his credit cards, my credit cards and our medical bills. Today we have a balance of $4,882 between my oral surgery and credit card debt. We are almost to the end of this and we can't wait to get to baby step 3.

I encourage every single person in the world to take FPU. It will change your live and your mindset!!!

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Logli's has some good deals this week!

Logli's has there 10 for $10.00 sales. This can make for some great deals if you use your coupons! Logli's is located in Southern Wisconsin and it's under a different name for Illinois ( so for my far away readers, skip to the next post!).

Logli's has .58 cents for a dozen eggs. (it's does not say a limit, but I am going to assume they have a limit! right???!!!) Also, they have Green Giant Steamers. If you got the sunday paper on 11/15, there was a .40 cent off Steamers coupon, which will double there. That makes the bag of veggies .20 cents a bag! Daisy Sour Cream is $1.49, use the .50 cents Daisy Coupon from the 11/15 Sunday Paper Smart Source and the sour cream is .49 cents after coupon.

Snapfish Deal!

If you are not a member of Snapfish, become one today and get a $10.00 credit to your account!! Go to this  LINK, sign up and get your credit. Then on 11/30 ( tomorrow) there is a deal for free shiping on all photo gifts! Use code NOV30.  You could get a snowflake ornament or the small mug or other items FREE!!! This could make a wonderful gift for a loved one!!

Staples Deal!!

Do you use batteries during the holiday season? Staples has batteries with rewards! You need to be a Staples Reward Member. Buy the batteries and get a $12.99 rewards. Follow this LINK for more information.

Friday, November 27, 2009

Just a Reminder..Swagbucks deals..

Now, through the month of December, Everyday swagbucks will discount their gift e-cards.  Today is Barnes and Noble. You can get a $10.00 gift ecard for 99 Swagbucks.

Did you go Black Friday Shopping?

I did go...I am pretty much done buying gifts except for the 3 men gifts and 1 woman gift. I spent $140, paid cash and can pretty much take a deep breath and not have to worry about Christmas.

Please post in the comments section if you went, what you bought and did you feel it was worth it?

Thursday, November 26, 2009

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!!

I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving!!! Enjoy your Turkey!!!

$5.00 off a Leapster Game

If you get the Family Fun Magazine, page 21 this month has a coupon for $5.00 off any one leapster game. use this in combination with the Black Friday Deals and you could score some great games at great prices!

Say Thank You to the Troops!

This holiday season, Xerox is allowing you to pick a card (made by children in the USA) and having it printed and sent to the troops. Follow this LINK to participate.  This isn't a freebie for yourself...but it will be wonderful to share with a fellow soldier.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Great Shopping trip today!!

My last big shopping trip was Oct. 29th, So, I haven't shopped in awhile. My budget was $200.00, I spent $107.21 between 3 transactions.

First Stop, ALDI's:


1 bag of Torilla Chips
1 bag of Corn Chips
4 containers of Cat Litter
2 bags of Hamburger Buns
1 bag of Hot dog Buns
3 frozen pizzas
3 chicken pot pies
3 loaves of bread
1 chunk colby cheese
1 chunk medium cheese
2 boxes of Salisbury Steaks
2 frozen grape juices
4 boxes of Mac and Cheese
1 gallon of milk
4 pounds of bananas
3 cans of speghettios

Total $48.54

Next stop Loglis:



2 boxes of Cake Mix ( on sale for $1.00, had a .55/2 coupon)
5 boxes of Stuffing ( on sale for .78, had a buy 4 get one free coupon)
3 bottles of Sobe Life water ( priced $1.19, had a .50 cents off coupon that doubled for each, .19 each after coupon)
2 boxes of Swiss Miss ( on sale for $1.00, I had .50/2 coupons)
4 rolls of Cresent Rolls ( on sale for $1.79, I had $1.00 coupons
3 bottles of Crisco Oil ( on sale for $2.00 each, I had coupons for .55 cents off each.)
3 Thai Noodles ( priced $.97, I had .50 cent off coupons that doubled, so free after coupon)
3 pouches of Tuna ( different prices, different brands, but I ended up paying .37 cents after coupon for the 3 pouches, 2 of the pouches were on sale for $1.00 and I had .50 cents off coupons that doubled, so at least 2 were free)
4 cans of Mixes Fruit ( on sale for $1.00 each, I had .55/2  coupons )
2 cans of Cranberry Sauce ( on sale for .88 each)
1 package of Cheese Slices ( not on sale)
1 box of Mashed Potatoes ( I had a .50 off coupon that doubled)
1 package of Flour ( on sale for .88)
1 package of Butter ( on sale for $1.68)
1 19.75 pound Turkey ( full price $27.45, but they were .39 a pound of you spent $25.00, I also had a $2.00 winetag off)
Total before coupons:$72.64
After coupons: $27.86

Second Transaction:
4 boxes of Hot Chocolate
4 bottles of Sobe Water
2 packages of Chinet ( on sale for $2.00, had $2.00 coupon from sunday paper, making them free)
1 Beef Strongnoff microwave meal ( on sale for $2.50, i had a coupon for $1.50 off)
3 cups of Stuffing ( on clearance for .67 cents, I had a buy 2 get one free)
2 Yakisoba Microwave meals ( on sale for .75, had a 50 cent coupon that double, so it made them free)
1 3 pound bag of apples ( on sale)
5 bottles of Sweet Relish ( on sale for $1.49, I had .55 cent off coupons that doubled)
6 4 pound bags of Sugar ( on sale for $1.17, I had .35 cent off coupons that doubled)
2 boxes of cake mix
1 5pound bag of flour
1 bag of shredded cheese ( on sale)
2 rolls of plastic wrap ( $1.10, had a coupon for 1.00 off when you buy two)
4 bags of cat treats ( on sale $1.00 each, I had $2.00/2, making them all free)
5 bags of steamed veggies ( on sale for $1.00, I had .35 cents off coupons)
1 container of sour cream ( on sale for $1.49, I had a .50 cents off coupon)
1 19.15 pound turkey ( full price $26.62)

Total before coupons: $82.10
Total after coupons: $30.81

The bad news...Logli's changed it coupon policy. Which they made me aware of tonight. They will now only accept 3 of the same like coupon per transaction...I guess I will be doing more transactions!

The good news... I got 2 more gallons of milk from the church...so I have 3 gallons. And I picked up 4 dozen eggs from my grandfather. He gets them from a local farmer so they cost me nothing.

Now, my menu plan. (about $35.00 a week at the $107 I spent) I am going to have this for 21 days...which will keep us until the 3rd week in December.  So that is 21 breakfasts and dinners. Lunches my kids eat at school and my husband eats left overs. I pack my lunch for my job. Remember, this includes my stockpiled items not just what I bought today.

Breakfasts ( 21+ meals)
Cereal ( 5 meals)
Crepe (1 meal)
Oatmeal ( 5 meals)
Eggs ( 4 meals)
French Toast ( 1 meal)
Fruit and Yougart ( 1 meal)
Pancakes (4 meals)
Frozen Waffles ( 2 meals), can add fruit from summer garden or syrup

Lunch
( 7+ no school days for the family)
Mac and Cheese ( 3 days)
Grilled Cheese Sandwiches ( 2 days)
Hot dogs ( 2 days)
Speghettios ( 1 day)
Soup ( 1 day)

( 14 work days for me)
1 beef strongnoff microwave meal
2 Yakisoba microwave meals
4 Mac and cheese cups
6 mini frozen pizzas
2 noodle soups

( 14+ days of lunches for husband)
4 Left overs from the dinner before
2 Tuna Sandwiches
2 Turkey Sandwiches
2 Bistro Microwave meals
2 frozen mini pizzas
1 can of clam chowder
1 can of cream of mushroom
3 thai noodle packs


Dinner (21+ meals and their side dish)
2 soppy joes, apple sauce
1 walking tacos
2 salisbury steaks meals, mashed potatoes and pasta roni
2 pizzas
1 chicken pot pie meal, steamed veggies
4 speghetti meals, steamed veggies
4 turkey meals, steamed veggies and stuffin
2 taco nights
1 London Broil, Veggies, pasta salad
1 hamburger helper, veggies and cranberry sauce
1 beef stew, ( use up the egg noodles!), cresent rolls
1 Boneless Chuck steak, veggies and mashed potatoes

Snacks
Popcorn
Halloween candy
Bananas
Apples with Peanut butter
cupcakes
fruit salad
wheat thins
popsicles
crackers, cheese and crackers
cookies

Drinks
Milk
Hot Coco
Grape Juice
Kool Aid
Fitness Water
Water
Coffee
Tea

Pink walking shoes $2.50!!

Shipping is $6.95 for these, so $ $9.45 for a pair of shoes. ...but I thought I would share this deal!!  http://www.6pm.com/propet-washable-walker-pink  pink walker shoes.  Sizes available 9 through 11. Different widths avaiable too.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Blockbuster Express...Free Rentals..

I don't have a BlockBuster Express in my area, but if you do..here are several free rental codes....

November Codes
NOVEMBER - Get a free rental. (exp 11/30)

9PM - Get a free rental. (exp 11/30)

December Codes
G29SA1 - Get a free rental (exp 12/3)
PUBLIX3 - free one night DVD rental (only good at Publix. Exp 12/21)
PUBLIX4 - rent one get one free (only good at Publix. Exp 12/21)
GT11A - Get a free rental. (exp 1/31/10)

In the Mood for some Christmas Music?

Amazon has an entire MP3 Album called Sample Claus you can download and enjoy! Follow this LINK to the music. It includes traditional christmas music! Enjoy!

Free American Greeting Photo Book!

This would make a great Christmas Gift!!
Go to this LINK and use the coupon code BONNIE. Limited to the first 25,000 people!

**** Just to let you know..this is the SLOWEST website I have had to work with when making a photo book! It took me almost 3 hours!!!***

True Value Hardware Stores have Free LightBulbs

Right now, True Value Hardware Stores has a great deal. Their GE Energy Savers light bulbs are .99 cents after instant rebate ( a rebate they give you at the register). Then this past sunday there were GE Coupons in the Smart Source Coupon Section for $1.00 off.  Use the coupon and the light bulb is free!! My husband picked up 6 bulbs for me, which is great because my stockpile on lightbulbs is pretty low!!

**********Update! My husband and I went through my Nov and Dec. coupons and found 19 coupons between the 2 months. We picked up 19 free light bulbs and only paid .81 cents for tax!)*****

Monday, November 23, 2009

Amazon.com is offering you to try their music downloads by giving you $3.00 in free music!

Get $3 in MP3s on Us!!

Go to http://www.amazon.com/gp/feature.html/ref=amb_link_86123591_2?tag=**********&ie=UTF8&docId=1000455181&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-1&pf_rd_r=01CRM9R6HV6G359W7HWG&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=500790611&pf_rd_i=2236008011 and follow the steps to getting $3.00 in free music!!

Fresh Batch of Kellogg's Coupons

Follow this LINK to a new batch of Kellogg's Coupons!!

9 Lives Boutique

This is a advertisment...sort of....I am not getting paid to post this...but I just love this store and wanted to share it with my local readers!!! 

If you live in Walworth County, anywhere near Lake Geneva, WI, and you want to save money but find great items, you have to visit 9 Lives Boutique!! 9 Lives Boutique is a second hand store like no other!!! It's a resale shop that has nice name brand, wonderful quality clothes!! Their prices are great!!! AND THE BEST PART??? 100% of their profits goes to Lakeland Animal Shelter!! Which means it helps animals every time you shop there! The ladies there have helped me ( I have no sense of fashion!) put outfits together. They have name brand kids clothes, mens clothes and womens clothes. I have gotten children's books in great shape for my kids. I have found a really beautiful teddy bear for my collection. And I know every time I buy something, I am also helping animals!! While I mostly shop at thrift stores and resale shops, this one is by far my favorite!!

If you are in Walworth County or in the Lake Geneva Area, go visit them!

Haven't posted alot lately....

I haven't posted alot lately...it's been quiet around here as far as shopping. I have been trying to figure out more ways to bring in INCOME and less ways to have it fly out the door. :)   I am picking up some odd jobs to bring in extra money. And believe it or not, I don't plan on buying much on Black Friday!!! First of all, money is tight. Second, I got most of my shopping done. Third, I am not a early riser and crowds are my favorite so there isn't the thrill there.

You can do Black Friday searches in your Swagbucks search, you will find lots of options. BUT, please remember so basic rules. Rule Number One: Quanities are limited, so don't expect to get the product! IF you do, GREAT! but be prepared to be disappointed. Rule Number Two: this year due to the economy, you may not find the best prices on Black Friday. As it gets closer to christmas, retailers will be scrabbling to make sales, and the prices may acutally drop! Rule Number Three: Do your research!! Know the fine print! If you buy something electronic, can it be returned after opening? Rule Number Four: Have you ever heard of model swapping? Retailers will have a model number on their product, then they will make a "lower" version of the same product without all the bells and whistles and sell that model on sale. Please make sure you know what you are buying.

I do plan on going to Walmart. They will price match all competers ads. Walmart will had kids jackets and boots on sale. Not a christmas item, but a good chance to get some nice things for my kids.

I hope all you Black Friday Shopping goes well!! I hope you shop smart!! Don't max out those credit cards!! Will it be worth it in July 2010 when you are still paying on interest?? Ugh!!

Stay Frugal!!

Friday, November 20, 2009

Night trip...Menards, ToysRUs and VS

Well, I was itching to get out and shop, so we went out tonight.

VS
Another pair of Free underware. Thanks to another mailing.

Toysrus
2 Lego Sets
$7.41 after my $20.00 gift card from my last shopping trip

Menards
8 crayola marker sets
5 6 pack of Crystal Light Bottles
1 indoor power cord
1 bird feeder
2 soy candles
1 box of cat liter
1 6pc. Towel Set
1 Hanna Montana Color and Cut playset

Total: 64.94
Used my $10.00 merchandise rebate card
After that rebate card $54.94, getting $33.25 back in rebates.

Also, 6 of the items are christmas gifts.
I am almost done shopping for christmas!! YEAH!

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Target has $10 DVD's PreOrder

This may not be the most fantastic post, but if you have any of these on your christmas list, this may not be a bad deal. :) Target has 9 movies that haven't come out yet on a Pre Order $10 deal!
Here is the LINK!!

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Make 50 photos cards for Free!

A new site called http://www.seehere.com/ has a deal right now. When you check out, use the code newbaby  at checkout. Shipping is free!!!

I just did this! I made 50 photos cards ($39.00 value) for free. Between these and the ones I got from Kodak! I am set for this holiday season!!! WOO HOO!!

Went to Walgreens

There wasn't anything on my list of things to buy, but I had $20.00 in RR's that I needed to spend or they expire tomorrow. SO, I decided to buy more treats since the kids can bring them for snack time at school.

I bought
7 2liter bottles of soda ( figured with the holidays we will need them, we had no soda in the house)
9 rolls of toilet paper
4 8 packs of cheese crackers
1 box of cheese gold fish crackers
3 cans of cranberry sauce
2 6 packs of raisins
1 box of clearance candy ( for my son's reward)

Total after RR's: $1.09


Then I got a refund check in the mail today and my husband got 2 bags of handme down clothes from family. :) Yeah!!

Stay Frugal everyone!!

Monday, November 16, 2009

Free Sample of Lipton Tea

Go to this LINK and in the top right corner there is a sample button. Fill out the form and wait for the sample!

Good Frugal Day!!

Well, First of all, my school was doing there book fair and had a huge table full of clearance stuff. I picked up 5 gifts for $13.00!! WOO HOO!

Second, I got in the mail my Ebates check ($21.00 back!). Then I got my $15.00 Walmart Gift Card from Free Ride. Then I got a free coupon for a free Frosty at Wendy's and a Free pair of undies from VS. I also got a flyer with a coupon for $2.00 off one bottle of shampoo. Save that for next time.

Lastly, I went to Piggly Wiggly. they currently have a deal ( ends tomorrow) where you mix and match 8 items and you get them for $1.25 each item. Here is what I picked up:
2 blue bonnet magarines, on sale .49 cents each
1 container of milk, $1.99 on sale
2 packages of fudge shoppe cookies, on sale $1.25 when you buy 8 items, $1.00 off IP coupon
2 boxes of crackers, on sale $1.25 when you buy 8, $1.00 off of 2 IP coupons
2 packages of Pecan Sandies Cookies, $1.25 when you buy 8, $1.00 off each package IP coupons
1 box of Cheeze it Crackers, $1.25 when you buy ,.75 cents off IP Coupon
1 package of Rainbow Deluxe Cookie, $1.25 when you buy 8, .55 cents off one package IP Coupon

Total before discounts and coupons: $37.29
After coupons: $7.67
I bought a lot of crackers and cookies. I will use these for the upcoming holidays when my kids need to bring in snacks for parties and such. :)

Stay Frugal Everyone!!! I have $20 in Walgreens RR's that expire tomorrow...so I need to use those up....hum.what to buy?? We will see!!

Sunday, November 15, 2009

If you get a womans magazines....check this out...

If you look in your current Woman's Day or Martha Stuart Living or some other woman's magazines. There is a $5.00 off coupon for Hallmark. It's $5.00 off any order of $5.01 or more. So, you can find a $5.00 gift or a special ornament, you can use it to buy another Christmas Gift!!

Coin Star Gift Card Promotion

This is an okay promo if you are looking for gift cards this Christmas. Coinstar is offering you a $50 gift card if you cash in $40.00 in coins. If you are one of those people who collect change, this would get a great way to make $10.00. They don't charge any fees if you do a gift card option. This offer expires Dec. 6, 09. Follow this LINK for more details.

Download for Free...CMA Country Artist

Go to this LINK and Amazon will let you download a song from any of the CMA winning artists. Including Taylor Swift, Sugarland, Carrie Underwood and MANY MORE!!! Enjoy!!

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Buzz Agent Aveeno Shampoo Freebie

If you are a Buzz Agent Member, Currently in the BuzzScapes Section, you can go and find Aveeno Shampoo and Conditioner Sample.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Black Friday...Are you ready???

This website posts all the Black Friday Ads....Follow this LINK and find the stores you will be shopping. Plan a route and get ready!! Enjoy!

Kmarts New Frequent Shopping Card

Kmart is starting a new program with a shoppers card.  You can follow this LINK and get started.  It will give you exclusive savings and some other bloggers have reported that you can use it to double coupons!

Local Wisconsin Restaurant Birthday Club

This is for the local readers, I know I have readers as far away as Arizona, but I wanted to share this.

Popeye's Chicken in Lake Geneva ( not the Popeye's Chicken Chain) is a restaurant that has a great newsletter and birthday club. Sign up and on the first email you will get a $5.00 off your dinner coupon. After that you get a nice birthday treat on your birthday! If you are in Southern Wisconsin, this is one you want to sign up for!!  Follow this LINK to sign up!

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

If you do Swagbucks....read this!

As you know, Swagbucks has plenty of Gift Cards that you can get for free with the web's premier digital dollar. What could be better than getting to save money without even spending money?! Especially during the holiday season. We've got a wide variety of Gift Cards in our Swag Store; from Amazon to Barnes & Noble to Starbucks to Sephora to CrazyDogTShirts to iTunes to PayPal to Target and more. We have these available in the Swag Store all the time and they're always free to you by using your Swag Bucks.


But, we're going to make what's already an awesome system even better. Here's how...

Every day of the week we will pick one Gift Card in our Swag Store and "blow it out"! Starting on Black Friday (November 27th) we'll drastically cut the price to much less than we normally have these cards at and you can scoop up as many as 2 for far less than their full price. We won't announce which gift cards are the blowout card of the day but if and when you find it, go to town. Some gift cards may be the blow out gift card of the day more than once and at different blowout prices. That means you should probably explore the Swag Store every day just in case we're blowing out one of your favorite online store's gift card. We will do this all the way up until January 1st, 2010.

Frugal Notes

Well, a couple of frugal things happened today. Since this is my blog, I am going to brag...So, skip this blog post if you don't want to hear it....LOL

I got a free car wash.

Then I went and used my free yougart and free uncrustables coupons, found a big bottle of tea on clearance for 25 cents. So, my out of pocket was .24 cents after tax because they do a bag credit at the grocery store which really lowered my cost. :) All of that will be saved for our water park trip for an upcoming weekend trip. It happens there is a conference in a nearby town for my career. We saved enough cash for me to attend the conference. One of the perks is that the water park is in the conference center/hotel. So, my kids get to go to the water park while I attend the conference. :) So, I told the kids I couldn't afford to eat out much, so I bought the uncrustables, yougart and the drink bottle for the hotel room so we don't spend a bunch of money on eating out. We will go out at least once. The kids have their McDonalds Free Happy Meal coupons, so we will "treat" them to those. So, spending .24cents will save us a bunch of money on eating out. :)

Then I got my new scanner today for Neilsen Home Panel. I will scan my groceries and they will pay me to do it. :) Gotta love that!

On top of it, we actually heard good news on my husband's job search. He got a call back on an interview and there is a chance he will have a second interview. Granted, it's not a job offer, but it means there is a chance, which is better than what has been the last 10 months!  :) He is really interested in the company and they seem very interested in him! YEAH!

We have sat down and figured out our debt snowball. We have 2 "snowflakes" coming ( if you know debt snowball lingo, you know what a snowflake is!!) One is on a savings account that we totally didn't realize we could have access too and in February we will have our tax refund. So, if you take those two "snowflakes" we can pay off the balance on the credit debt AND my car. We will be debt free from everything but the mortgage!! Time for baby step #3 ( Again, a Dave Ramsey thing and debt snowball thing!)

So, despite my husband not working much ( he is working part time, minimum wage at a fast food joint about 15 to 25 hours a week for about 2 months now), I have picked up 2 side jobs and still work my full time job. God has been abundant with blessing recently!!! We have been able to save up enought to get life insurance on both of us ( never had that before). And get both cars tuned up, and ready for winter, including brakes and tires for the van. Nothing put on credit card!!!

This has been a long journey that started almost 8 years ago. But knowing that soon, we will be debt free and able to save for our kids education, our retirement and protect our family with insurance, really gives me a huge piece of comfort. All this of this has been through God! WOW, in 8 years we have bought a home, have had 3 lay offs, a baby, husband had emergeny care on a spiral fractured leg, a car completely breaking down and so many other bumps along the way.

And it's taught me alot!!! It's taught me to make do with what I have, be satified with what I have, not to want, WANT, WANT!!!

Stay Frugal!!!!

Monday, November 9, 2009

Coupon Book from

Follow this LINK and sign up for a coupon book From Home Made Simple which is Dawn, Cascade, Swiffer and MORE!!

If you live in Southeastern WI, Free pancakes!!

McDonalds restaurant in Southeastern Wisconsin will offer all customers a free hotcakes and sausage platter from 6:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, November 10th to celebrate 25th birthday of Milwaukee Ronald McDonald House.

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Select Harvest Campbell's Soup Coupon

Follow this LINK to print a $1.00 off coupon for Campbell's Soup.

Menards Deal

Menards has Glade 2 oz Candles on sale for $2.49. If you printed the Glade BOGO coupon from my Oct. 27th Post, you can get 2 candles for the price of one and then mail in the $1.50 rebate from Menards.

$2.49 1 candle
$2.49 1 candle
------
$4.98
-2.49 BoGO Coupon
------
2.49 Total ( and then add tax)
Then get a $1.50 EACH rebate ( totally $3.00) from Menards

Toys R Us/ Hasbro Deal!!!!

If you have to buy for children this Christmas, this is a deal you can't miss!!

First of all you get a $10.00 Toys r Us gift card for spending $25.00 on Hasbro Games.

Then Hasbro has a rebate form LINK where you can get up to $69.00 back. The link only SHOWS the rebate, you need to find the rebate on a tear pad in the store. It's a tearpad on display with the games.

Finally if you look at my coupons.com bar on the right of my website, you will see some Hasbro Game Coupons. OR if you printed the coupons I posted last month (which are now unavailable), you could use those.

Well,
Here is what I got on my trip. I didn't like how they did the $10.00 back, but I guess it's to protect from fraud. They actually charge you for the gift card and take the amount off from the gift card on your purchases.

So, I bought
Musical Sit and Spin, $19.99, I had the $10.00 off coupon
T Rex Hatchling, $14.99, I had the $5.00 off coupon
Lullaby Glow Worm, $9.99, I had the $3.00 off coupon
Power Rangers Halloween Costume, $2.99 on 90% clearance
GAMES:
Memory $3.99
Scrabble $9.99
Connect 4X4 $19.99, I had a $5.00 off coupon
Gator Golf  $14.99
Chutes and Ladders $3.99
Then I had a $10.00 coupon if you spent $75.00
So, My total was $74.20 after coupons. I got a gift card for $20.00 and I am getting another $10.00 back in rebates.

Gift card must by used by 12/31/09, so I will use it for more christmas gifts for the kids!

Saturday, November 7, 2009

Some IP Coupons and Rebates

Pillsbury Toaster Strudel, $1.00 off on ONE
LINK

Nature Valley Granola Rebate
LINK

Sign up for these Eat Better America IP Coupons
LINK

Disney Rewards

If you got your Disney Rewards newsletter, look for the Rewards code and cash in the code. It's worth 5 points. The code was E389VNV23C.

Disner Rewards are great!! If you aren't a member, I can email you a referral email, please email me at frugalmommie22@hotmail.com

Thanks!

Walmart Freebies

Walmart has some new freebies listed.

DenTek Floss Picks

Pampers Extra Protection Diaper

Proilosec Medicine click on the picture frame.

Garnier Skin Renew

Dinners for Veterans!

As Veteran's day approaches, There are some great treats for Vets!! Thank you for serving our country!!

Outback Steak House is giving away their Blooming Onion to the Vets. Click HERE for information!

Also, Call your Texas Roadhouse, I heard that some of them are having free meals after 1pm at their resturants. You need to call you local resturant and ask.

Applebees: In recognition of your service to our country, all veterans and active duty military personnel are invited to eat free at Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar Restaurants this Veterans Day, Wednesday, Nov.11, 2009. Proof of service includes: U.S. Uniform Services Identification Card, U.S. Uniform Services Retired Identification Card, Current Leave and Earnings Statement, Veterans Organization Card, or photograph in uniform or wearing uniform. For more information visit http://www.applebees.com/

Home Depot and Lowes: Have advertised that they will offer all active duty personnel, reservists, retired military, veterans and their families a 10% discount off their purchases in honor of Veteran's Day.

This year, Krispy Kreme Doughnut Corporation is honoring America's service men and women on Veterans Day by giving away free doughnuts to all veterans and active military personnel. Veterans and active military personnel are invited to visit any participating U.S. Krispy Kreme store on Veterans Day, November 11, and enjoy one free doughnut of any variety. Click Here for more information.

Freebie: Breathe Right Nasal Strips

Go here LINK and sign up!!

Great Freebie and Frugal Weekend

Well, It's been an nice warm frugal fall weekend. :)

First, we went to a hockey game last night. We were given the tickets for free from a friend who got them and couldn't go. Paid $10.00 for parking and ate before we went. Took snacks.

Second, My aunt had 3 big bags of clothes that she wanted to get rid of, asked my mom if I wanted them. My mom gave them to me yesterday. Name brand clothes for both me and my daughter! Yeah!

Then, today I got a $10.00 survey check in the mail. I also got a free bottle of Aquafresh new ISO active toothpaste. I will try it and tell the company if I like it! I also got a coupon trade today. I am so thrilled! More yougart coupons!! And I got in the mail my Uncrustables coupon for a free box of Smuckers Uncrustables. (from my Sept. post)

And finally, due to my husband being laid off, our church "gifted" us with some food. :) We were shocked to find 2 boxes of food to help with our Thanksgiving meal. I was shocked. We didn't expect to be included because I am working, this is truly a wonderful blessing right now!!

The rest of the time we have stayed home, played in the leaves with our kids, rested, relaxed and enjoyed the fall weather!

Friday, November 6, 2009

Victoria Secret Deal

Here is a decent deal with VS. TODAY ONLY, NOV. 6th, shipping is Free, just use code SHIPFREE. You can also order any PINK item and get a free PINK bag, use code VSPINKBAG. You can also do the code 20CLEAR for 20% off clearance items.

Right now, they have a Secret Card Promo, with every order they will add a gift card for $10 to $500 dollars.

So, you spend close to $10, get free shipping, get the card in your order for another ( at minimum) $10.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Thanksgiving meal for 8 for $20.00!!!??

Walmart just released a press realease that states they are going to have a complete 8 person meal deal for $20.00. The press release states
"Starting Saturday, Walmart stores will begin their first one-week electronics savings event with special buys and Rollbacks, including a new $298 HP notebook computer. In addition, as shoppers evaluate the impact of tight budgets on holiday meal planning, beginning today Walmart will feature select 12-pound turkeys for less than $5, helping families serve a complete Thanksgiving meal for eight this year as low as $20.*"

"According to a survey by the American Farm Bureau Federation, last year's
average cost of a turkey was roughly $1.19 per pound. Beginning today, select Grade A turkeys are available for 40 cents per pound at Walmart.* These gobblers are part of Walmart's $20 Thanksgiving menu guaranteeing family favorites will be on the dinner table this holiday season. Walmart's $20 Thanksgiving feast includes:

-- 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"

You can read the press release here LINK

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Target and Walgreens trip...

Spent $22.00 but I got $30.00 back in RR"s and Gift cards! YEAH!!

First stop, Walgreens.
2 Halloween pencils ( .12 cent fillers on clearance)
2 Halloween Bags ( 12 cent fillers on clearance, will use for gift bags, they don't look halloween like)
1 Almay Makeup ( on sale for $9.99 and has a $10.00 RR back)
Total: $11.05 ( with tax)
Used my RR"s from the last trip, so after RR's it was $3.05
GOT $10.00 back in RR"s!

Second Stop Target:
Bought 10 Glade Oil Candles, On sale for $2.50, had BOGO coupon ( from newspaper and coupon spitter), then when you buy 5 you get a $5.00 gift card
Total: 25.00 - $12.50 in coupons and my $5.00 gift card from the cereal deal: Paid $8.46 (with tax), got $10.00 in Gift cards for next time. I will use these candles and candle refills for christmas gifts.

Third stop, another Walgreens:
Picked up another Almay Make up because I needed it;
$10.54 with tax, got $10.00 back in RR's.

SO, spent out of pocket $22.05 and I got $30.00 back in Gift cards and RR's for next time.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Question from a reader...

ON Eagle's Wings wrote: I really want to be better at finding deals and I come to you to see how you do it. I feel like I have to start off with a lot of money. To start to stock up on walmart rewards,target cards,andswagbucks, and whatever else. I have six hundred dollars a month to spend i can never seem to save any at the end of the month for fun stuff like candles,gifts, or what have yous. We have six people in our family. I'm not sure I'm asking the right question for you. If I can think of a better way of saying how I feel about it all I write again.


My response: Hi Eagles Wings, First of all, $600 should be plenty to live on for a family of 5. What is your menu plan? What are your price limits? How much stockpiling do you do?

If you are just getting started, the first thing to do is decide on a menu plan and price limits. Food that is inexpensive, fits with the budget and uses loss leaders.

Example, my target trip. I bought 4 boxes of cereal. Most people will buy one or 2 boxes each grocery trip, shopping 3 out of 4 weeks a month. If they pay the price of $2.66 each for 2 boxes for 3 weeks ( total 6 boxes) ...that's $15.96.  But if they buy 4 boxes on sale, then they have the Target coupon and $1.00 off each box coupon, then the total is $2.98 and they did this twice in the same week to add to their stockpile, you are then at 8 boxes at $5.96. Saving you $10 and getting 2 more boxes then the regular shopping trip.

I hope that makes sense.

Here is another example:
I went to my Walgreens. They had hang tags for .50 cents off one bottle of Sobe Flavored Water. I grabbed 3 ( typically I grab 3 coupons, not more so that others can have some too!!). Then when I went across the street to my Sentry ( who doubles up to 50 cents), they had the SOBE on sale for $1.00. I used the 3 coupons and grabbed 3 waters for free. So, instead of grabbing a bottle of soda at the gas station on the way to work. I just grab a free flavored water and I am on my way.

If you continue to do that again and again, adding those little extras to your stockpile, eventually you will build up such a good pile that you don't need to spend so much at the store.

Another example: Logli's had bags of veggies for $1.00 on sale, I had a 40 cent off coupon that doubles there. So I paid 20 cents a bag. I gathered up 13 of those coupons and stockpiled veggies. Now, I can make menus around those veggies and not spend full price on veggies for awhile.

So, I am sure you are asking HOW did I get 13 of those coupons. Well, I ask the ladies at church to save coupons for me. I get 2 papers at my home. My mom and MIL saves coupons for me. I also trade coupons if I can. :) I don't buy coupons!! I know many people who do, you have to decide what works for you!

How do I find the sales? Typically, after my kids go to bed, I spend about 45 minutes surfing different websites, store ads, and my email to find bargins. Some bargins are just by chance, others take a lot of planning.  Lot of this is a lifestyle change. We live without and make do without. I WILL never pay full price things. I just refuse.

An example: soda. We don't buy coke, pepsi or other high priced soda. We will, as a treat, once in a while, buy root beer or white soda. A 2 liter bottle is 79 cents at our Super Walmart. OR a 12 pack is $2.39. I will buy the 12 pack because soda at work is 75 cents a can and I get the "I wannas" every now and then. That is $9.00 a 12 pack. We only drink generic and I make that 12 pack stretch until my next grocery trip! Which means about 2 or 3 cans a week.

I hope this helps. I get lots of emails where they aren't quite sure what questions to ask. I will just keep posting what I do and pray and hope that it helps someone out there.  I really just want all of us moms ( and dads!) to be able to support our families, stop the debt cycle that is crushing us and enjoy our lives!!

Stay frugal everyone!!!

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Target Deals!

I went to my mom's and she has a Target nearby, so I decided to stop. 

* 4 Boxes of Fruit Loops, on sale for $2.66 and it was b3g1. I had coupons for $1.00 off one box of Fruit Loops from the grocery store coupon spitter. So, I used those 4 coupons. Also, Target had a Target coupon for $1.00 off any Kellogg's Cereal. ( Follow this LINK for the Kellogg's coupon). That coupon says one per transaction. So, $2.66 * 3 is $7.98 and the 4th box is free. $7.98-$4.00 in coupons = $3.98- $1.00 Target coupon =$2.98 for 4 boxes of cereal. Basically 75 cents each box.

* Then I picked up my free Herbal Essance Shampoo, Free after coupon mailer

* then I checked the dollar spot, they had 75% off, so the items were 25 cents. I bought 3 lotions for teacher gifts and a pack of pencils.

* I then picked up the glade candle coupons. I had $2.00 off the purchase of 2 candles from inside the packages of Glade candles I had bought in the past. I also had a $1.50 off one candle from a tearpad I got at Kmart awhile back. When you buy 5 Glade Holiday Candles, you get a $5.00 Gift card back. So, $2.50 each * 5 = $12.50 -$5.50 ( amount of the 3 coupons) = $7.00 and I got a $5.00 gift card back. I will use the candles as smaller gifts for teachers and co workers. :)

* Finally, if you bought 2 kellogg's pop tart 12 packs you get a box of fruit snacks free. So, I had .55 cent off coupons on the pop tarts. So, $2.50 each - .55 = $1.95 each ( $3.90 total, plus a free fruit snack)

Total after coupons was $15.55, then I used one of my $10 Swagbucks Mastercard Gift Cards and the $5.00 Target Gift Card I had from the Cereal Deal back in September.  So, Out of pocket I spent .55 cents.

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Today's Notes

First of all, it's the last day of the month, so time to clean up those files and binders!!

Second, if you signed up for Herbal Essences Free Shampoo deal on facebook, keep your eyes open! I got my Free Bottle Coupon today!

So, today my kids are trick or treating, I had surgery yesterday so I couldn't go, but I am sitting here at my front door, giving out candy and cleaning out my coupon binder.

I have a question for you all and if you are a lurker, this is when I really, really need you to leave a comment. I have been asked to teach a class on my couponing, shopping, freebies and stockpiling. If you were to meet me face to face, where I could show you what I do, what would you want to ask? I have 2months to get ready. The classes are in January...so please speak up and tell me what you would want to learn!!!!

Thanks! and stay frugal!!!

Free Black Jack Taco at Taco Bell

Tonight from 6pm to close at participating Taco Bells, you can get a free Black Jack Taco. One Free Taco PER PERSON.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Art Cow has some great deals!! Photo books for free ( with Shipping!)

I used Art Cow last year for Christmas Gifts, since Art Cow is in Hong Kong, the shipping was slow, but the products were very nice and I am thinking of using them again for gifts. They have new items this year, but the cost has gone up. If you sign up for the first time with them, they give you 1,200 free prints!

Right now, you can get photo books for free, you will need to pay shipping.

Here is their current deal:
1. Go to ArtsCow to register (if you are already a member, simply log in). New members will receive THREE 8×8 photo books & 1200 free prints credits!

2. After you have logged in, click on My Account, then click on Credit & Discount on the left side of the page.

3. Enter this code: 8X8OCT2009, to credit your account with eight 8×8 20 page Photo Books. You Must Hurry, because you need to redeem the code by 10/31. You’ll have 30 days after that to use the coupon.

4. Next enter: 40PAGEBOOK to credit your account with three 7×5 Hard Cover 40 page Photo Books. (You need to redeem this coupon by 11/12 to get the credit. Then you’ll have 30 days to use it.)

5. Additionally, New Members can use code: PBKS299 to get a 7×5 Hard Cover 20 page Photo Book for $2.99 with FREE SHIPPING!

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Stockpile trip today....

I planned to just stop at a few stores while my husband did some things in Janesville...it ended up being a all day trip because I got in the shopping mood...LOL...Here is the trip. I did buy 7 Christmas gifts.

Bath and Body Works
Free Body Wash ( coupon from mailer)

Victoria Secret
Free Underware ( coupon from mailer)

Walgreens
Transaction One:
2 masterpiece puzzles ( gifts), On clearance
2 sets of kids dinner plates and bowls, on clearance
3 cups of Stove Top Stuffing, on sale for .89 cents, had B2GO coupons
2 packs of Trident Gum, On sale for 2/$2.00, had a BOGO coupon and get a $1.00 RR back
Total: $10.67 plus tax
After coupons and $9.00 in RR's from my previous trip, OOP .82 cents. I got back $1.00 RR

Transaction Two:
1 bag of Halls, sale for $1.00, had .75 cents coupon off from ALL YOU Magazine. Paid .31 cents with tax and I got a $1.00 RR back

Transaction Three:
2 Degree Deo, on sale for 2/$7.00, had $1.50 IP coupons for each and then get $2.00 RR back
I bag of Halls, Sale for $1.00, had a 50 cent coupon from Sunday coupon. Get a $1.00 RR.
Chapstick, Sale $2.99, get a $3.00 RR back.
Total: $10.99
After Coupons: $8.10 with Tax
I got back $6.00 RR back

So, I have $8.00 RR's for my next trip!

Next stop:
Toys R Us
My Little Pony Playset, Clearance $7.48,
2 My Little Ponys, $6.49 each
Used the $5.00 My Little Pony Coupon from my coupon bar on the right!
then I used my daughters $3.00 birthday coupon too.
Total OOP was $13.42. My daughter will get one of the ponies for her birthday and the others will be used for christmas gifts!

Then I stopped at Menards
4 jars Chi Chi Salsa, On sale for $1.79 with $1.00 rebate on each
2 packs of Cottonelle Toilet Paper, On sale for 2/$5.00, I had $1.50 IP on each one
2 bottles of Palmolive Dish Soap, On sale for $1.50 each, I had 50 cents off coupons from Sunday paper
2 Crayola Spinner Refills, 99 cents on clearance.
I used my balances on my gift rebate cards so my total after coupons and rebate cards was
Total $1.33 and I have the rebate for $4.00 on the salsa to send in

Target
1 bag of Dog Food ( To donate to the shelter) $4.49, Had a Target $1.00 off coupon and a manu. coupon for $3.00 off
1 children's game on clearance for $3.74, will use for christmas gift
1 dry erase board, 50 cents on clearance
4 cans of cat food, on sale $1.20 each, I had 2 BOGO Target coupons and 1 BOGO sunday paper coupons, So I paid for 1 and got 4
Total: $14.03, then after coupons $5.43 OOP

Aldi's
2 bags of noodles
bag of apples
bananas
Tortilla chips
Tomatoes
pancake syrup
bananas
can of fruit cocktail
head of lettuce
2 bottles of vinegar
12 pak of white soda
4 dozen eggs
1 very big pumpkin
Total: 20.95

Logli's
6 bottles of Snuggle Fabric Softner, $3.89, had $3.00 off coupons from sunday paper
1 bag Sergeto Cheese Shredds, $1.99. had .55 cents coupon that doubled from sunday paper
5 pound bag of flour, $2.69, had .50 cent IP coupon that doubled
2 containers of instant lunches, Marie Callendars $2.99, had $1.50 coupon off from ALL YOU magazine
22 bags of Wacky Mac, $1.00 each on sale, had 75 cent off coupons from sunday paper.
3 bags of egg noodles, on sale for $1.73 and I had .75 cent off coupons from sunday paper
1 bowl of Healthy Choice Steamers, $2.50 on sale and I had a $1.00 off coupon from a House Party
3 boxes of Super Pretzels, 3/$5.00 on sale, .50 cents off each box that doubles from sunday paper
1 Crayola Beginnings Paint Set, On clearnace for $2.49, had a coupon for $1.00 from an insert
2 containers of Frosting, on sale for $1.50, had .50 cents off that doubled
4 boxes of brownie mix, on sale for .99 cents, had .30 cent off coupons that double from sunday paper
2 containers of crystal light, on sale for $2.00 each, I had a $2.00 each coupons
1 box of Minute rice, on sale for $2.00, I had a 50 cents off coupon that doubled. Coupon from Sunday paper.
2 Yakisoba lunch packs., on sale .75 cents, and i had a 50 cent coupon that doubles
2 packs of Hard Salami, used the $3.00 IP coupons from Sara Lee
5 pouchs of Mashed Potatoes, 5/$4.00 on sale, .25 cents off each coupons from Sunday paper that doubles.
3 packs of taco seasoning, .67 cents each on sale, had a $1.10/3 coupon
6 pouches of Tuna, on sale for $1.25, had 50 cents off coupons on each one, they doubled. the coupons from the sunday paper
2 cups of Microwave mac and cheese, 1.00 on sale, .40 cents coupons that doubled, coupons from the sunday paper
2 cups of Chef Boy R De, $1.00 on sale, had .40 cent coupon that doubled.
1 bottle of Snapple, $1.29, had a .55 cent IP coupon that doubled
1 jar of baby food, on sale for .69 cents, had a free coupon, will give it to the food pantry
2 packs of clearance pull ups
3 bottles of Suave Body Wash, on sale for $1.66, .50 cent coupons on each that doubled
2 sticks of Sure Deoderant, $2.50 had $1.00 off coupons, coupons from Sunday Paper
Total: 141.04
After coupons: $61.08

So, grocery store shopping was $82.03, my other shopping was $29.41. I have $4.00 coming back in rebates, $8.00 back in RR's and 7 Christmas gifts. :) sorry no photo...My house is a disaster! LOL!

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Boston Market Meal for $1.00

Follow this LINK and you can get a 3 piece chicken meal and mashed potatoes and cornbread.

Would you like a new pair of jeans??

Special K has a offer. Buy 5 specially marked packages of Special K and get a $10.00 voucher for a new pair of jeans. Be on the lookout for cereal sales and then follow this LINK and sign up!

Then, If you follow the Coupons Link and sign up there, You will get coupons for different Keebler and Kellogg's IP coupons.

When is your birthday??

Did you know how many different restaurants give you a special treat for your birthday??? Lots!! Here is a list of current places to sign up for!!!

Baker's Square - Sign up for their email list! Get coupons and ( I haven't varified this but) a free slice of pie on your birthday!
Baskin Robbins sign up for their birthday club and get a free cone!
Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream sign up for free newsletter and get a free ice cream cone on your birthday!
Buffalo Wild Wings sign up for their newsletter and on your birthday enjoy a dozen free wings! ( not all locations are included)
Cold Stone Creamery Join their birthday club and get a free one scoop "creation"!
Dairy Queen sign up and get coupons for free Blizzard Treat's ( not just on your birthday!)
Denny's Kids 10 and under get a free meal on their birthday! Sign up for the birthday club! or follow this LINK to sign up for regular Denny's deals!
Fuddruckers sign up and get a free burger on your birthday!
Noodles and Company  Join their mailing list and get a free meal on your birthday!!
Old Country Buffett Join their Eclub and get coupons ( BOGO) on your birthday and anniversary!
Perkin's Sign up for their eclub for a birthday treat ( kids only!)
Red Robins sign up for their club and get a free burger on your birthday!
Sonic's  Birthday Club for Kids, Sign up for free meal.
Texas Road House Become a Roadie and get delicious goodies!
T.G.I.Friday's Restaurant Join their Stripes club and get coupons and goodies!
Tony Romas Join their mailing list and get coupons and a birthday treat!


And Other places that give you goodies!!
Toys R Us Sign up the kids for their birthday club and get a $3.00 gift certificate towards any purchase and other coupons!!
Olan Mills Free Portrait Package for children on their birthday, includes 1 8X 10, 1 5X7 and 4 wallets.

There are alot more, but these were the ones I could confirm actually work! As I get more, I will try to post them.

Applebee's, Free Entree for all veterans!

Show your support for our troops by forwarding a message to as many people as possible and letting them know that veterans and active duty military can enjoy a free entree on Wednesday, November 11th at any Applebee’s across the country.

Visit http://www.applebees.com/ for more information!!

On my way home....

The local grocery store has a remodeling special ( they are remodeling the building). So, there was some great specials.

I got one gallon of milk, 2 loafs of bread, 1 block of cheese, and 1 pack of hotdogs for $3.47!!! Everything was on a grand opening coupon. .99 cents for the milk, .49 cents for the hot dogs,  .99 chunk cheese, 2 loafs of bread for $1.00. 

:) Good Deals!

Free Sample of Rachel Ray's Nurish Dog Food

Follow this LINK to register for a free sample of dog food. Click on the free sample tab!

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Bag Credits

Check with your stores!! I have had 2 different stores now tell me if I bring in my tote bags ( which I do anyways) I get a .05 refund on my transaction. This has happened at my local Sentry Grocery Store and my Target. I know it's .05 but hey...it's a little extra off!!!

Glade IP Coupon!

Follow this LINK and print a coupon for a BOGO Candle.

Pennzoil Music deal and Coupon

Need your car's oil changed?? Get your oil changed with Pennzoil and then get 46 FREE music downloads and a coupon for $15.00 for the next change. Follow this LINK and click on "get more details"

Victoria Secret Freebies!

These are some great deals!  Follow this LINK and print the coupon, have a free bra fitting and get a 3 pack of Beauty Rush Lip Gloss!

Also, PINK at VS has a free panty deal! Follow this LINK, and join or login and pick up a free panty and coupon for $10.00 off a bra.

Frugalmommie as been on WITI FoxNews6 Television Milwaukee, WTMJ620 Radio, Several local newspapers, The Wisconsin State Journal, and is in a feature article in All You Magazine in the April 2009 edition.