Ideeli - Vera Wang Giveaway!

Giveaway starts at 2:02 PM EDT. Click on the above pic to enter!

Harris Teeter Triples Coupons: 4/29 - 5/5

Please check out a complete listing at Southern Savers. Please remember that they are tripling up to $.99 and with a limit of 20 per transaction.

Here's what I plan to accomplish today:

Kellogg’s Corn Pops, Smacks, Froot Loops, Frosted Flakes B1G1 at $3.99
$1 off Kellogg’s Cereal, Any 10 Oz. + RP 4/05 (makes it $1 ea) (not a triple)

Land O Lakes Half & Half $2.24
-.75/1 Land O Lakes printable

Colgate Toothpaste various types $1.95-$2.17
-.75/1 off any Colgate Toothpaste SS 4/26

Savannah Hushpuppies Classic .69¢ ea
-.50/1 Savannah Classics Hushpuppies SS 3/22

Skintimate shaving gel - trial size - $1.50 ea
-.75/1 Skintimate SS 4/26

Rhodes Rolls $2.19 ea
-.75/1 Rhodes Traditional Rolls, SS 3/22

Speed Stick 24/7 and Lady Speed Stick 24/7 - $2 ea
.75/1 Speed stick SS 4/26

Mahatma rice $1.49 ea
-.50/1Mahatma Rice RP 3/01

French’s Yellow Mustard 8 oz $1.50 ea
-.50/1 French’s Mustard or SS 3/29 printable

Dawn $1 ea
-.50/1 Dawn $120 Savings Rebate booklet

New York Texas Toast Croutons $1.59 ea
-.55/1 New York Croutons SS 4/05

Halls Cough Drops $1.50 ea
-.75/1 Halls printable or April All You

Mueller’s Spaghetti 16 oz .88 ea
-.55/2 Mueller’s pasta printable

Dannon 6 oz Yogurt .40¢ ea
-.60/6 Dannon Yogurt, SS 3/15 (makes it .10¢ ea)

Dial Basics Hypoallergenic, 3 pack $1.19 ea
-.35/1 Dial Soap SS 3/08 (makes it .14¢ ea)

Nabisco 100 Calorie Pack Chewy Granola Bars $2.50 ea
-.75/1 Nabisco 100 cal packs SS 4/19 (makes it .25¢ ea)

Planters Big Nut Bars $2.50 ea
.75/1 Planters Big Nut Bars SS 4/19 (makes it .25¢ ea)

Dole All Natural Fruit Jars $2.50 ea
.75/1 Dole Fruit April All You Mag (makes it .25¢ ea)

Betty Crocker Frosting $1.99 ea
.55/1 Betty Crocker Frosting printable (makes it .34¢ ea)

Ortega Taco Sauce, Salsa or Taco shells $1.50 ea
.75/2 Ortega Products, SS 4/19 (makes it .37¢ ea)

Breyers Ice Cream $2.69 (B1G1 this week)
-.75/1 off Breyers Ice Cream, RP 4/05 (makes it .44¢ ea)

Muellers Lasagne $1.50 ea
-.55/2 Mueller’s pasta printable (makes it .45¢ ea)

Eggo Frozen Waffles $2.79 ea
.75/1 Kellogg’s Eggo Frozen Product, RP 4/05 (makes it .54¢ ea)

Kraft Bagel-fuls $2.89 ea
-.75/1 Kraft Bagel-Fuls, Any SS 4/19 (makes it .64¢ ea)

Deli Creations $2.99 ea
-.75/1 Deli Creations printable (makes it .74¢ ea)

I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter! Margarine Sticks $2.99
-.75/1 I Can’t Butter RP 3/29 (makes it .74¢ ea)

Snyder’s Multigrain, 11.5 oz bag, $3 ea
-.75/1 any Snyder’s Multigrain snack SS 4/05 (makes it .75¢ ea)

Marie Callender’s Pasta Al Dente $3 ea
-.75/1 Marie Callender’s Al Dente SS 3/29 (makes it .75¢ ea)

Pace Picante or Salsa $2 ea
-.75/2 Pace Picante Or Salsa, Any 15 Oz. + SS 4/26 (makes it .87¢ each)

Hillshire Farms Miller Brats 16 oz $2.99 ea
.55/2 any Hillshire Farms Sausage Product printable (IE) or printable (FF) (makes it $1.16ea)

Reynolds Wrap 100% recycled, 50 ft $2.99 ea
-.55/1 Reynolds Wrap SS 4/19 (makes it $1.34)

Alrighty, gotta run. I am so swamped printing, clipping, etc.

Free T-Shirt From VistaPrint

I love VistaPrint. They offer so many free products for you to design and personalize. All you pay is shipping. I went nuts last August and took advantage of most all of their free offers, designing stationery, magnets, pens & t-shirts for the kids as part of their Christmas gifts. They LOVED all the personalized items. The best moment for me was seeing the shock on my 12 year old's face when he unveiled a t-shirt with the name of his movie production company on it. He was pretty excited! Click on the above link, use your imagination and think up some cool gift ideas!

Parent & Child Magazine - Fridge Art Contest

Send us your child's paintings, photographs, and drawings. If we print one in a future issue, we'll send you a FREE box of books! Send art to: Samantha Brody, 557 Broadway, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10012 or sbrody@scholastic.com

39DollarGlasses.com

If you're in the market for a new pair of glasses, check out 39DollarGlasses.com. They offer a selection of frames with lenses for only $39. I don't think you can do much better than that, even with a coupon.

Barnes and Noble Summer Reading Program - Free Book

Saw this awesome deal over at Swaggrabber.com. I will be taking advantage of this for 3 out of 4 of my children! Can't wait to incorporate this into our Summer home school curriculum. Click the link above for more info.

Ideeli - YSL Giveaway - Enter Quickly!!!

A few posts ago, I mentioned Ideeli.com. The above link is an awesome giveaway for a gorgeous YSL bag. Hurry, entry time is limited.

My CVS and Walgreens Trip - 4/26

Here's what I did yesterday. First, I got both my lists from Faithful Provisions.



Walgreens Transaction #1:

1 Bayer Breeze2 or Contour Meter - $14.99
- Earn $5 RR
- Use Up to $30 off in 3/22 or 10/26/08 SS insert
Final Price: FREE + $5 in overage

1 Rembrandt mouthwash 16 oz - $5.99
- Earn $5.99 RR
Final Price: FREE

1 Ecotrin 45 ct tablets - $2
- Earn $2 RR
- Use $2.25 off here
- Use $1 from 1/25 SS insert
Final Price: FREE + $2.25 in overage

4 Campbell’s Soups - $0.59/ea with in-ad coupon

- Use $1 off 2 here
Final Price: $.18 for 2

OOP: $11.55

Received: $13.00 in RR

Walgreens Transaction #2:

1 Nivea body wash 16.9 oz - $4.99
- Earn $4.99 RR
- Use $1 off in 4/19 RP insert
Final Price: FREE + $1 in overage

1 Rembrandt toothpaste 2.6 -3.2 oz - $5.99
- Earn $5.99 RR
Final Price: FREE

1 Ecotrin 45 ct tablets - $2
- Earn $2 RR
- Use $2.25 off here
- Use $1 from 1/25 SS insert
Final Price: FREE + $2.25 in overage

2 small filler items to increase total

- Used $11.00 in RR from previous transaction

OOP: $2.39

Received $7 in RR for use next week

CVS Transaction #1:

Garnier Fructis shampoo, conditioner, or styler - $2.99
- Earn $2.00 ECB’s (limit 1)
- Use $1.00 off in 1/4 SS (expires on 5/1)
Final Price: FREE

2 Oral B Indicator toothbrushes - $1.99

- Earn $1 ECB (limit 2)
- Use $1.00 off 2, Oral B Indicator QP from 4/5 PG (expires 4/30)

Final Price: $.50 each

2 Post Trail Mix Crunch Cereal - 2/$5
- Use the $2 off here
Final Price: $.50 each

2 bars fave soap just because

used $6.89 in ECB from last week

OOP: $3.73

Received: $4 ECB for use next week

So, for the 3 transactions altogether I spent $17.67 out of pocket. Used $17.89 in RRs/ECBs and have $9 RR's and $14 ECB's remaining. Not only that, but I will fill out the rebate form in the Glucose Monitor and receive $14.99 back. That comes out to a total overage of around $20! I love getting paid to shop.

Land's End Free Shipping - No Minimum & Up To 40% Off

Harris Teeter Tripling Coupons 4/29 - 5/5!!!!!

Get your coupons ready! I've just heard from two different sources that Harris Teeter will be tripling coupons again (up to $.99) starting a week from tomorrow. I'll be sure to keep you posted.

California Pizza Kitchen - You Eat, You Win

** Also - they have a great birthday club for kids. Join and get a free kids' meal during their birthday month (ages 10 and younger).

Free Sunglasses @ Charlotte Russe - Beginning May 5th

Check this out! Many thanks to Bargain Briana for the scoop on this awesome giveaway!

"Starting MAY 5, 2009, bring the June 2009 cover of Seventeen Magazine or a printout of the seventeen.com homepage to any participating Charlotte Russe store to receive a pair of sunglasses (up to $6 value).

One per person. Ends June 8, 2009 or while supplies last. 10,000 will be given away store wide."

Walgreens Take Care Clinic - $30 Camp & Sports Physicals!

In a previous post, I mentioned the great medical services offered at Walgreen's Take Care Clinics. Not only are they conveniently located, but their fees are so reasonably priced - even for private pay patients!

In addition to this, for a limited time, Walgreen's Take Care Clinics are offering $30 Camp and Sports Physicals in lieu of the usual $59 charge. For details, please check out THIS flyer.

Ideeli - Sign Up Free For Awesome Deals and Prizes!

Just stumbled across this and signed up and it looks fantastic. I will be sure to keep you posted on all the great deals and giveaways. Or, if you want to try it out yourself, click the image above.

Two Days Only - Free Lip Item With Any Purchase @ Bath & Body Works

My Publix Plans - 4/23

Last week, I received my $10 Publix gift card thanks to the awesome rebate program a few weeks back. Please check out Southern Savers for a complete listing of great deals and coupon match-ups. Based on coupons that I have, here are the deals I plan to take advantage of:

Quaker Cereal: Cap’N Crunch, Life, or Squares, at $4.49
-$1 off Life Maple and Brown Sugar printable

Final Price: $1.24 - $1.74 each

Pasta Roni or Rice A Roni at $1.17
-$1/3 Pasta or Rice a Roni printable

Final Price: $.25 each

Wish-Bone Dressing, 16 oz, at $2.63
-.75/1 off any Wish-bone Dressing printable or RP 3/15

Final Price: $.57 each

Hunt’s Tomato Ketchup, 24 oz, at $1.75
-$1/2 any Hunt’s Product May All You Magazine

Final Price: $.37 each

Blue Diamond Almonds, 6 oz, at $3.39
-.50/1 Blue Diamond Almonds SS 3/22 or printable

Final Price: $.69 each

Nabisco Teddy Grahams, Ritz Bits or Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Crackers, at $2.99
-$1/2 Teddy Grahams, Ritz Bits, or Mac & Cheese Crackers SS 3/01

Final Price: $.99 each

Wise Potato Chips, 7 to 8 oz bag, at $2.99
-.50/2 Wise Pop Corn, Pretzels, or Corn Chips printable

Final Price: $1 each

Yoplait Go-Gurt Portable Yogurt, 8 pk, at $2.79
-.35/1 Go-Gurt SS 4/19

Final Price: $.69 each

Sargento Sliced Cheese $2.50 ea
-.50/1 Sargento Sliced Cheese SS 4/19

Final Price: $1.50 each

Hot Candle Deal @ Walgreens - Thanks Swaggrabber!

Go to Swaggrabber and check out this amazing deal on Glade Fragrance Collection Candles. I'm posting the corrected coupon link HERE -- I had to search around to get to just the right link. : ) Hurry -- these go quickly!

Free Nature's Source All-Purpose Cleaner + $1 Off Coupon Link

Click on the link above to register for a free Nature's Source all-purpose cleaner.

Each week from April 7th – May 4th, the first 10,000* to respond each week will receive a free sample of Nature’s Source™ Natural All-Purpose Cleaner. Check back every Tuesday in April!

OR you can register to print a $1 coupon HERE.

Sign Up For White Cloud $1 Off Coupon

My Kroger Plans - 4/20

Check out the deals posted over at Southern Savers. Here's a few that I might take advantage of:

Angel Soft 4pk $1 ea (ongoing price)
-.50/1 Angel Soft 4pk or larger RP 4/19 (regional)(makes it FREE)

Lawry’s 12oz Marinades $1 ea
-.50/1 Lawry’s Marinades RP 4/05 (makes it FREE)

Huggies Baby Wipes 40ct $1 ea
-$1 off Huggies Bath and Body product printable or SS 4/19 (works! & makes it FREE)

McCormick Grill Mates $1 ea
-.50/1 off any McCormick Grill Mates or Rub RP 4/19
-$1 off any McCormick Spice RP 3/15 (either coupon makes it FREE)

Green Giant Vegetables $1 ea
-.50/1 off any Green Giant product printable (makes it FREE)

Check out the complete listing at Southern Savers.

My CVS Trip - 4/19

Had to make this trip TODAY so I could use my $4 off $20 (beauty) coupon I mentioned in a previous post. Here's what I was able to do:

First, I did the Aveeno deal as posted on Deal Seeking Mom -

3 bottles Aveeno Body wash $6
- $2.00 off Printable coupons (3)
1 bottle Aveeno Shampoo $7
-$2.00 off Printable coupon
received $10 in ECB
used $4 off $20 coupon
Final Price: $.75 each

1 Crest Pro Health Rinse $2.88
used $1 off coupon 4/5 PG
received $2.00 in ECB
Final Price: FREE + $.12 overage

1 Edge Infused Shave Gel $2.89
received $2.89 in ECB
Final Price: FREE

1 Bayer Crystal 4ct $2.00
received $2 in ECB
Final Price: FREE

It was a good run and my net profit was $.33 after using last weeks ECBs and receiving new ones to use next time. Love that!

Become a Reality Checker for All You Magazine - Free Sign Up!

This looks fun....(taken straight from the All You website):

Become an ALL YOU Reality Checker™!

Let's talk! Join our online community. Tell us what you love and what concerns you. Share your ideas for doing things better, smarter, faster, cheaper.

Be part of everything we do at ALL YOU.

Click here to join

By joining our unique online community, you will automatically receive our newsletter and you may get the opportunity to:

• See your words and ideas featured in the magazine or website
• Appear on the pages of the magazine or website
• Best new products for free
• Be part of a beauty and lifestyle makeover
• Attend special ALL YOU events and parties

Feel free to contact us with any questions: realitycheckers@allyou.com.

You must be 18 years or older to participate.

ALL YOU will have full rights to edit and print any material, either online or via writing, in any way they choose, in accordance with Time Inc.'s privacy policy.

Thank you for helping us make ALL YOU a great magazine -- just for you.

Webkinz For $1 at Amy's Hallmark - May 1 -3

With all the Webkinz fans in my house, I just had to post this. Amy's Hallmark is located at the Cool Springs Galleria in Franklin, TN.

WEBKINZ DAY EXTRAVAGANZA AT AMY'S HALLMARK!

MAY 1 - 3

Join in the Celebrations! Visit Amy's Hallmark, May 1 -3, WebKinz Extravaganza Pet for $1 with every purchase of $15*. Extravaganza pet regularly $15. Limited quantity. Select styles only.

** In addition, here is a link to a $2 off $10 purchase @ Amy's Hallmark.

Check with your local Hallmark Gold Crown location for participation.

My Walmart Trip - 4/17

I am SO completely worn out. Semi-pleased with my results, though. I put my shopping list together using the list over at Centsible Sawyer, which is quite extensive. Please Please Please know that prices vary (a lot) by region. Even by neighborhood, sometimes.

Now, having said all that, here's what I was able to find with the coupons I had available to me:

6 boxes Caramel Crunch & Munch $.50 each after coupon
2 boxes Cascadian Farms Granola Cereal $2.18 after coupon
1 tub Smart Source Butter $2
1 lb Smart Source Butter Sticks FREE after coupon
2 boxes Dora/Diego Band-aids $.18 each after coupon
3 Johnsons Buddies Soaps $.13 each after coupon
1 pkg goldfish
Brita Slim Pitcher 5 cup $5 after coupon
1 lb Starbucks Coffee (shhh)
2 boxes Wheat Thins Artisan Crackers $1 each after coupon
1 8oz Daisy Sour Cream $.53 after coupon
1 Johnson & Johnson Butterfly Closures $.52 after coupon
2 Boxes Equate Allergy Liquid
2 Mentos Gum $.28 each
1 bag aquarium gravel (random, I know)
1 All You Magazine - so I can get those fabulous coupons!
1 pkg Airheads candy $.09 after coupon
1 pkg Sweetarts candy
2 boxes Cocoa Puffs cereal $1.23 each after coupon

Shelf Price: $76.18
Paid OOP: $47.24
Savings: $28.94 (only 38% savings -- blame it on the full price coffee : )

My daughter is supposed to reimburse me for the aquarium gravel so that will UP my savings a smidge. : )

Like I said at the top, I'm SO worn out! It's like schlepping through an entire city! I have a feeling this will be my last Walmart run. God bless 'em, but it's just not profitable for me.

FREE E.L.F. Kabuki Brush With Any Purchase - Code EGKABUKP

Bank of America Add It Up Program - Up to 20% Cash Back @ Selected Retailers - Thanks Maritta!

With the Add It Up^TM program, you can earn up to 20% cash back on top of retailers' discounts and your credit or check card rewards.

Registration is free for Bank of America Online Banking customers with an eligible Bank of America credit or check card.

Once registered, here's how to start earning cash
back:

• Sign in and select an offer on this website to begin shopping. For online purchases, always access the retailer's website through the Add it Up^TM offer page.
  
  
• Use your registered Bank of America card to pay. On the retailer's website or at the register for in-store offers, use a card you registered in the Add It Up^TM program.
  
  
• Receive cash back. Your cash back earnings are credited to the eligible checking or credit card account of your choice.

Featured Online Offers

In-Store Offers

$4 Off Any Beauty Purchase of $20 CVS Printable - Holy Cow!!!

Ok, I'm trying not to hyperventilate while I'm typing this -- only slightly less exciting than free Bon Jovi tickets is this amazing link to a valid CVS $4 off $20 (beauty) printable coupon that I found on DealSeekingMom's blog.

Check it out while I go find a brown paper bag and breathe deeply. : )

Dollar General Market - Bacon, Eggs, English Muffins for $1

These are the kind of items the six of us devour! I ran across the ad in yesterday's mail.
These prices are better than I can get at Aldi, so I made a special trip over there to pick up several packs of bacon, eggs and english muffins. Select stores are participating so check with yours first before making a trip!

Free Metropolitan Home Magazine Subscription - Thanks HeyItsFree!

I like to check in with HeyItsFree.net every day or so. They've got the best freebies posted over there and I like the "spam free" factor. I've gotten some really great stuff by checking out their website. The little sample sizes are great to collect all year for stocking stuffers or Easter basket goodies.

OK, so today, I spotted this Free subscription to Metropolitan Home Magazine over at HeyItsFree. So far, I've been receiving Martha Stewart Living, Good Housekeeping, Woman's Day, Elle Decor and Prevention with a ZERO price tag! Time to get a bigger mailbox.

Click on the image above and answer a few questions to start your subscription. For the friend referral portion, I always use my "alias" and my other junk mail account. : )

FREE Laundry Detergent From CVS - Thanks Swaggrabber!

If you haven't made your trip over to CVS this week, you might have time to add this deal which was posted over at Swaggrabber.com for free Purex laundry detergent. Great deal!!

Free Maggie Moos Ice Cream TODAY!!! - 4/15

I scream, you scream, we all scream....you get the point! In honor of Tax Day, Maggie Moos is offering a free single scoop to customers. Click on the image above for more info.

My CVS Trip - 4/13

Here's what I got at CVS yesterday:

1 Colgate 360 Sensitive Toothbrush $3.99
Received $3.99 ECB
Final Price: Free

1 Colgate Sensitive Toothpaste $3.99
Used $1 Printable coupon (must register to print)
Received $3.99 ECB
Final Price: Free + $1 overage

1 Softsoap Scrub Body Wash $4.99
Received: $4.99 ECB
Final Price: Free

4 Sobe Lifewater 20 oz $1.59 BOGO
Used 2 BOGO coupons Printable (firefox) or (IE)
Final Price: Free

1 Glaceau Vitamin Water 20oz $1.69
Used $1 coupon 4/5 SS
Final Price : $.69

1 Goody Copper Paddle Brush $3.00 Clearance

Used $2.00 ECB from last week
Used $3.49 ECB from last week
Used $3.98 ECB from last week


Total OOP: $7.20
Received: $11.97 in ECBs for next week!


I know I could have done seperate transactions, but I don't really like that. I usually have children with me and I can't concentrate : ) Ah, Mommy Brain!

Avon Deal From My Friend Sherry

Hey, Jennifer!

I have a deal for you and your readers! Anyone who orders AVON from me via e-mail and mentions you in their e-mail will recieve their order tax-free, service charge free, AND if the order is $50 or more will also receive a free 12oz. bottle of Skin So Soft lotion for FREE.
Just e-mail me at cherrypie4two@aol.com

This offer is only good thru e-mail orders!

Eyes Lips Face Cosmetics -- $1.99 Shipping Deal 2 Hours Only!!

This would be a great time to stock up on E.L.F. Cosmetics. I really like their makeup and I LOVE the prices! Most individual products are $1 each and with the code SHIPAPR (on orders over $15) you can really save on shipping @ $1.99.

*** This code is good for 2 HOURS ONLY -- today from 2 - 4pm EST.

Click my link on the Right Hand column and start shopping!

Propane Refills - Art Pancakes

It's time to break out your grills for some scrumptious outdoor cooking! Before loading those burgers onto the grill, make sure you've got a full tank of propane. In the past, my husband has run over to Home Depot to exchange the propane tanks at $21 a pop. After some research, he discovered that Wal-mart does the same exchange service for $17.99.

While standing in line at Wal-mart, another frugal Dad told him about Art Pancakes Party Rentals on Nolensville Rd in Nashville. They will REFILL your tank to the full 20lb capacity for $13.00. (as opposed to the exchange service which only fills their tanks 15 - 17lbs for nearly double the cost!)

** For those of you outside the Nashville area, check with your local feed store or gas station for a propane REFILL service instead of a tank exchange. : )

GE Project Plant A Bulb - Printable Coupons

Visit GEProjectPlantABulb.com during the month of April to:

PLANT a flower bulb, simply by visiting*

SAVE money with an online coupon for GE Energy Smart light bulbs

LEARN how to save more money on energy with GE Energy-efficient lighting for every room in your home!

*Between April 1st and April 30th, GE will plant a flower bulb for every unique visitor to GEProjectPlantABulb.com, up to 100,000 bulbs.



I love these light bulbs because the last FORever. Don't ask me where they're planting all the flowers. I have NO idea. : )

Overstock.com - 10% off discount code

Take an extra 10% off your entire order. Use coupon code 138182 at checkout.
Your whole order ships for just $2.95.

Kroger Match-ups: April 12th - April 18th

Kroger Match-ups: April 12th - April 18th

Golden Ripe Bananas: $.38 / lb

Kroger White Milk: 2 for $5

Kroger Bread: $1 each

Kroger Frozen Pizza: $1 each

Kroger Cheese: 3 for $4

Kroger Value Yellow Onions 3lb: $1.66

Kroger Value Russet Pototoes 10lb: $3.69

Kroger Value Bacon: $1.79

Kroger Value Butter: $1.93

Kroger Value Pork Sausage: $1.69

Kroger Value Saltines: $.88

** The above prices are better than I can usually get at Aldi -- except the milk, which is normally around $2.25/gal.

Kellogg's Assorted Cereal $2.18
(Mini-Wheats, Raisin Bran or Froot Loops)
use $1.50 off 2 Printable
Final Price: $1.43 each

Suave Deoderant: $1
use $.50 coupon 3.29 RP
Final Price: Free

Softsoap Elements Hand Soap: $1
Use $.35 coupon 3/29 SS
Final Price: $.30 each

Suave Shampoo or Conditioner: $.88
use $1.75 off 3 coupon 3/1 RP
Final Price: $.30 each for 3

Birds Eye Frozen Bag Vegetables 9-16oz: $1
use $.35 coupon 3/29 SS
Final Price: $.30

Arbor Day Foundation Memberships $10 - Get 10 Trees FREE

Become a Member of the Arbor Day Foundation

Memberships start at only $10.

Choose one of these gifts as our thanks when you join:

Get 10 Free Trees

Choose 10 trees that grow well where you live, and we'll send them to you to plant in your yard. You can also choose to send the trees directly to someone else.

Plant 10 Trees in our Nation's Forests

In your honor, we'll plant 10 trees in a forest in need.

Our nation's forests provide wood, habitat, clean air, and drinking water for millions of us. Your trees will help preserve these precious resources for this and future generations.

Pretty cool, huh? If your property is too small for additional trees, you can donate them to your church, subdivision common area, school, etc. Also makes a neat gift idea.

Free Community Event - Belle Meade Plantation EASTER SUNDAY!

Victorian Easter Egg Hunt @ Belle Meade Plantation

Sunday April 5, 2009

12:00-3:00pm (*Egg Hunt begins promptly at 1:00pm)

Join us as we celebrate Easter with Victorian lawn games, balloon twisters, and much more...

Have your picture made with live bunnies, from Bunny Rescue!

Bring your Easter basket and hunt for candy-filled eggs on the front lawn of the mansion.

Don't be late...the Egg Hunt begins at 1:00pm!

This is a FREE Community event.

Half Off Depot - 50% off Giftcards

Found this in "The City Paper" (Nashville). Half Off Depot offers gift cards from local merchants at 50% off face value. Which is a beautiful thing.

Here's their "about us" info:

How does it work?

Here's how Half Off Depot works, in two easy steps:

1. You go to HalfOffDepot.com, select your city, and pick out gift certificates to your favorite businesses. You then purchase these gift certificates from us for half their face value.

2. Once your certificates arrive in the mail, you take each gift certificate to the business that issued it, and use the full value of your gift certificate (twice what you paid for it) toward your purchase there.

Seriously, that's all there is to it. Whatever you spent at HalfOffDepot.com, you will redeem twofold at the businesses you've selected. And you can expect to be treated as a first-class citizen, because the businesses aren't giving you anything for free — the other half of your gift certificate has already been paid for by our publishing partners. All that makes you is a smart shopper!

Ok, so at this point there's only a few cities offered but I remain optimistic for the rest of you. Click the image above for link. Check it out!

Gofobo.com - More Free Movie Screening!

While reading through the Film Metro (see previous post) website, I came across user comments for gofobo.com. Here is their "about us" info:

Gofobo is a new and exciting online experience designed to help you see movies first and win prizes fast. It also will allow you to build new relationships with other people who love movies, celebrities and fun. Based on the concept of fun or boring, gofobo will allow you not only to experience movies, contests and live events, but also to share your comments…whether your experiences are fun or boring…and a whole lot more. Keep coming back to gofobo as we continue to grow, offering more movies and contests – and more experiences – for our gofobo members.


Sounds like this one has more frequent offerings (in the Nashville area). Click on the above photo for link.

Hint: Some of the users on Film Metro posted gofobo.com codes to use for free movie passes. Take a look!

** The RSVP code for "17 Again" is FMT8251

Film Metro -- Pre-screen Movies FREE

My kids have been bugging me ALL day to get them tickets for the Hannah Montana movie opening today. In my search for FREE tickets, I ran across a website called Film Metro.

Here's their "About Us" info:

"Before a movie is released to the
general public, many times the movie
studio will offer advance screenings
for research and promotional purposes.
Film Metro is dedicated to providing
information and free movie tickets to
these advance screenings."

Looks like a great opportunity -- I think I'll sign up. Not gonna work for my Hannah Montana fans, though. Maybe next time : )

My Story

After reworking our budget for the millionth time, I became frustrated with our grocery and household expenses. It felt like we were CONSTANTLY running out of things and waiting until the next week to stock up again. Or worse -- we would run out to the corner drugstore and spend more than anticipated for milk or catfood or whatever.

I had tried clipping coupons, but gave up in a few months. As with most things, I knew that SOMEONE, SOMEWHERE knew more than me and I determined to search the internet under the tags of frugal living, coupons, and strategic shopping.

Lo and behold, I was right! In fact, there were lots of people that knew more than me. They rarely ran out of stuff and almost never paid full price for anything. I had found my tribe!

After reading up on all the cool strategies, I determined to make small changes. Baby steps, right? For me, here's how it all transpired:

1. Wrote out our basic weekly menu. Listed ALL ingredients needed.

2. Determined how much of a stockpile I wanted to build.

3. Organized pantry to accommodate growing stockpile.

4. Began by shopping at Aldi (here's the link to my 4-week shopping plan)

5. Subscribed HERE for 70% off the Sunday paper.

6. Filed coupon inserts by date -- did not clip anything until needed.

7. Joined CVS Extra Care program.

8. Looked for SALE and COUPON match-ups on my favorite frugal blogs (see side bar for list)

9. Began to shop the sales and "cherry-pick" the deals. Budget started to loosen!! Aldi list became smaller as I started to get several items each week for pennies on the dollar by using the sale/coupon match-ups.

10. Checked frugal websites daily for online deals and printable coupons.

11. STOPPED BUYING shampoo, body wash, toothpaste, etc. because I knew that I could get it FREE with CVS weekly or monthly deals and with grocery sales/coupon match-ups. (Crazy, isn't it?)

12. Started giving stuff away weekly because we have more than we could ever use. (unless I find another use for toothpaste)

13. Friends started asking how I did it. When I tried to explain all the little steps, I became overwhelmed at the many details. Decided to blog about it instead, so friends could digest a little at a time.

14. And here I am!

Hope that helps any of you who are looking to get started with all this. Let me know if you have any other questions. I'm always glad to help!

True Value $5 off $25 Printable Coupon

Click on this link to print your $5 off $25 coupon. Good through July 31, 2009.

Kmart Shoes - Buy One Get One 50% Off

Buy one pair of shoes, get another pair 50% off now through 4/11/09 at Kmart. I looked through it and they had some really cute styles. Check it out!

Good Housekeeping Contests

I was reading my FREE April issue of Good Housekeeping magazine and came across all these sweepstakes. Bosch, Pier 1, Physicians Formula, Olay, Crest, Spa package, etc. etc. I'm probably going to give all these a shot -- just thought I'd pass it along. SOMEONE has to win: why not you?

** once a new sweepstakes page opens, make sure you click on the link for sweepstakes entry without a trial subscription -- unless you really want one : )

Swagbucks Reward Program

Just wanted to update you on my Swagbucks progress. I've only been signed up for a few days and already I have 20 swagbucks. For a $5 Amazon giftcard, I need only 25 more points. There are many other prizes to choose from.

To sign up, just click the Swagbucks link on my sidebar. If you're going to surf the internet, you may as well get "paid" to do so. : )

Dunkin' Donuts Iced Coffee 50 Cents!

Enjoy great tasting Dunkin' Donuts Iced Coffee. Get a small 16oz Iced Coffee for only $.50 plus tax on April 21, 2009. Your purchase will support Homes For Our Troops - a non-profit organization that provides specially adopted homes for our severely injured veterans at no cost to them.

For each small Iced Coffee you buy on Iced Coffee Day, 10% of the purchase price will go to the Dunkin' Brands Community Foundation to support Homes For Our Troops. Guaranteed minimum donation $100,000.

Visit www.DunkinDonuts.com for more information. Offer valid all day.

Recipe For Homemade Laundry Detergent

Yes, I make my own detergent. I've also got a great tip for fabric softener that's chemical free.

For the detergent you will need:

1 large, deep pot
Borax Washing Powder
Baking Soda
Bar Soap -- I use all the remaining slivers of soap from the shower : ) Should equal a full bar.

First, shred your bar soap in the food processor (or just use the slivers whole.) Boil about a quart of water and dissolve the soap in the water. Lower heat to medium. Slowly add 1 cup of Borax washing powder. Stir until dissolved. Watch the heat as it tends to bubble over very quickly.

After this is dissolved, remove from heat. Add 3 TBSP of baking soda to this mixture -- one at a time. Stir quickly to dissolve.

After all soap and powders are dissolved, you can add fragrance, if you like. Essential oils are nice, but I actually add a sample packet of shampoo or detergent. These are always freebies that I get in the mail. Just makes it smell more "commercial."

I let it cool slightly, then pour the mixture into a 10 Quart bucket and fill with water. Stir. Allow this to stand overnight and firm up. ** It's not going to be as thick as commercial detergent.

After it sets, stir and dispense through funnel into clean, empty containers. This should be enough for 200 loads. Shake before each use.

To save money, I wash everything in cold water. To soften in the dryer, wad up a hand-sized ball of aluminum foil and toss in with the wet clothing. Works amazingly well and is reusable.

CVS Basics

If you're just getting started on frugal living, couponing, stockpiling, etc., it can be too overwhelming to tackle all at once.

My suggestion is to start with CVS. Their reward program is tops on my list and you can really get the hang of couponing and sale matching at this one store. In the meantime, your budget will begin to loosen as you no longer have to spend much for health, beauty and household items.

When I was getting started, I went Deal Seeking Mom, clicked on Drugstores and read through the How-To section. This blog contained the most concise and easy-to-follow plan description and deal scenarios.

Just tackle CVS and then, as you build confidence, branch out a little more. Most people who have adopted the frugal lifestyle did not make every change all at once. Don't worry -- the great deals will still be there! : )

My Kroger Plans - 4/7

Here's what I'm planning for my Kroger run:

Kroger White Eggs 1 doz $1

Kroger Food Color 4 pack $1

General Mills Cereal or Bars (selected varieties) $2.49
Use Fiber One $.50 coupon 3/8 SS
Use $.75 on MultiGrain Cheerios in the coupons.com link in right side bar
Use $.75 on MultiGrain Cheerios Printable here
Use $.55 on Cheerios via Cellfire
Final Price $1.49 - $1.74 each
**Buy 3 and you get 2 boxes of Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks FREE

Duncan Hines Cake Mix $1
Use $.35 coupon 3/29 SS
Final Price: $.30 each

Kellogg's Cereal (Selected varieties) $2.18
Use $1/2 coupon 3/29 SS
Use $1/1 coupon 4/5 SS
Final Price: $1.18 - $1.68 each

Wish-Bone Salad Dressing $1.49
Use $.75 coupon 3/15 RP
Use $1 coupon 3/15 RP
Final Price: $.49 - $.74 each

I Can't Believe It's Not Butter $1.49
Use $.50 coupon 3/29 RP
Final Price: $.49 each

Revlon ColorSilk Hair Color $2.50
Use $1/2 coupon 4/5 SS
Final Price: $2 each wyb 2

Idaho Potatoes 5lb bag BOGO

Private Selection Ice Cream 48 oz $2.50

Kroger Butter Quarters 1lb $1.99

That's it for me. For more info, check Mommy Snacks.

My CVS Plans - 4/5

There's only a few things I'm planning to grab at CVS tomorrow:

Bamboo Easter Baskets $1.99 (Sunday and Monday only)
Receive $1.99 ECBs
Final Price: Free

Excedrin 20-24 count $1.99
Use $2/1 Excedrin Migraine Printable
Final Price: Free

Skintimate Shave Cream $3.49
Get $3.49 ECBs
Final Price: Free

Colgate Max Fresh Toothpaste $2.99
Get $2 ECBs
Use $1 coupon 3/29/09 SS
Final Price: Free

Pringles $.88
Use $1 off 2 coupon 3/15/09 PG
Final Price: $.38

There's plenty more deals -- just check Nickels-n-Dimes.

My Walgreens Plans - 4/5

Here's what I'm planning for Walgreens tomorrow:

1 Mentos $1
Use $1 coupon 3/1/09 SS
Final Price: Free

Glade Soy Candles $5.99 each
Use $4 printable coupon (I printed this two weeks ago, but it has reached it's print limit now)
Use $2 Easy Saver Booklet coupon
Final Price: Free

Wal-Itin $6.99
Easy Saver Rebate $6.99
Final Price: Free

Edge Shaving Gel: $3.59
Easy Saver Rebate: $3.59
Final Price: Free

Skintimate Shaving Gel: $2.99
Get $2.99 in RR
Final Price: Free

Reach Toothbrush 2/$5
Get $2.50 in RR after you buy 2
Use $1 coupon 2/8/09 on each one
Final Price: $.25 each

Palmolive Dish Liquid $.99 each with ad coupon
Use $.50 coupon
Final Price: $.50

Visine Eye Drops $3.99
Get $3 in RR when you buy 2
Use $3 coupon 3/15/09 on each one
Final Price: Free + $1.02 Overage

Chapstick 100% Naturals $1.99
Get $1.99 in RR
Final Price: Free

Colgate Total Advanced $3.49
Get $3.49 in RR
Use $.75 coupon 3/29/09 SS
Final Price: Free + $.75 Overage

Glade Flameless Candle or Lasting Impressions $5.99
Use $4 coupon 3/29/09 SS
Easy Saver Rebate $2
Final Price: Free

Oust Air Sanitizer $2.99
Use $2 coupon 3/29/09 SS
Easy Saver Rebate $1
Final Price: Free

There's other deals I'm not going to get this time. For a full listing, you can check Swaggrabber or Deal Seeking Mom.

Brand Name Prescription Drugs For Less @ Costco

I know, I know...there's a lot of offers for $4 generics out there. However, you don't always have a choice IF the medication is new and patented or if your physician has stated "dispensed as written" on your script. After calling around to all the local pharmacies and giant chains, I've discovered that Costco is, by far, the lowest -- I'm talking about prices for uninsured or "private pay" individuals.

Not only are they the least expensive -- in our case it was by a landslide -- BUT, that was the non-member price. If you purchase an annual membership for $50, your prices are even lower. And, if you purchase a business membership for $100, your prices are lower PLUS you receive 2% back on all purchases. Do the math here and you may find that this will be an even better deal, depending on the medications you may need.

Call your local pharmacy and they will price check your meds for you -- I found them very helpful.

Old Navy Weekly Hidden Coupons - Update #2

The site has been up since early this morning. I was able to print a 50% off one item and a 40% off one item. For some great hints, go here. Good luck!

Old Navy Weekly Hidden Coupons - Update

Found this out from Krazy Coupon Lady:

More Old Navy coupon fun that will make you go Krazy!

The big $$ coupons at www.oldnavyweekly.com are making their way back this Friday!

The most valuable this week will be worth $45 off $100 purchase and the hiding places are getting trickier every week. So keep your hunting skills sharp…next week, the offers include $75 off 100!

Happy Hunting!

John A.
Brand Advocate working on behalf of Old Navy

Aldi Shopping Spreadsheet

I have revised my Aldi four week shopping list based on our consumption for the past few months. I do not buy every item each week, since I am able to find freebies or cheap deals from other grocery or drugstores. However, this list provides a great framework for me and I can get in and out of Aldi in less than 30 minutes. **This list is in order of items that I would find in my Aldi. YMMV.

Aldi Shopping List

My Shopping Week So Far - 4/1

I ended up getting most of my groceries at Aldi this week. As usual, I got a ton of basics for $65.00. I then found out yesterday afternoon about Harris Teeter TRIPLING coupons up to $.99 and the sale was ending that day! I threw my list together and managed to pick up two bagfuls of whatever for about $4. Beautiful.

I didn't realize that Harris Teeter tripled coupons like that -- apparently it's a random thing, but definitely worth it to keep your eyes peeled. I will be doing so from now on, and I'll make sure to give everyone a heads-up.

I cannot TELL you how bummed I am that I can't get my free toilet paper at Kroger anymore. (oh, that was a bit of a pun) They stopped carrying the 4-pack.

Alrighty, that's enough for now. More deals to come!

Dispensary of Hope

For anyone who is uninsured and taking expensive maintenance medication, this may be of interest. The following description is taken directly from the Dispensary of Hope website:

"The Dispensary of Hope is a not-for-profit network of dispensing sites, sourcing partners and financial partners that assist people without prescription drug coverage.

Founded in 2003, the Dispensary supplies both short-term and long-term medicines to people who can’t afford them and lack the insurance to access them. The Dispensary collects and distributes medication from a variety of sources including: Physicians’ offices, distributors and manufacturers who send us their donated medication and excess inventory.

Our centralized inventory system processes these shipments and distributes medications as requested by our dispensing sites to uninsured patients with incomes below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines."

To see if you qualify or to find a location near you, click here.

** There are plenty of locations in Tennessee, one in Louisiana and one in Alabama.