All Things in Moderation

Groceries!

2009-04-08T14:38:00.002-06:00

Albertsons:

Free meat or seafood (up to $10.00) with a $25 purchase on select items
Jello (included in deal above) $1.00 - buy 3 get $2 off your next purchase, buy 4 get $3 off your next purchase, buy 5 get $4 off your next purchase (this will print out with your receipt)
GM Cereal $1.69 with in ad coupon, use insert coupon $1/3 = $1.36 each when you buy 3
Kelloggs Cereal $3.34, use insert coupon $1.50/1, buy 3 and get $3 off at checkout, and receive a print out for free milk with your next purchase = $.84 each (if you have 3 $1.50/1 coupons) plus free milk

Harmons:

Strawberries $1.38
Nabisco Crackers $1.67, use insert coupon $1/2 = $1.17 each when you buy 2
Harmons Sour Cream $1.00

Maceys:

Strawberries $1.25
WF Cheese (32 oz) $3.99
Eggs (doz) $.98
Cool Whip $.99
Dole Fruit $.99, use insert coupon $.55/2 = $.72 each when you buy 2
Hunt's Ketchup $.99
Jello $.89
McCormick Spice Mix 3/$1
WF Olives $.99
TJ Farms Frozen Fruit $1.79
WF Cranberry Sauce $.99
WF Specialty mustard $1.00
Jiff Peanut Butter $2.29
Craisins $1.67
WF Choc Chips $1.67
Grandma Sycamore Bread $1.67
WF Cream Cheese $.99
Bar S Hot Dogs $.89
WF Burritos (10 pk) $2.49
Nabisco Crackers $1.67, use insert coupon $1/2 = $1.17 each when you buy 2
Milk $1.67
WF Sour Cream (16 oz) $.99
WF Margarine $.79
Activia Yogurt $2, use insert coupon $1/1 = $1.00
Yams $.99/lb

Smiths:

Potatoes (10 lb) $1.99
Eggs (doz) $.99
Dole Garden Salad $.99
Nabisco Crackers $1.67, use insert coupon $1/2 = $1.17 each when you buy 2
Philadelphia Cream Cheese $.99
Dannon Yogurt $1.99, use insert coupon $1/1 = $1
Sun Chips $2.99, use insert coupon $1/1 = $1.99
Kroger Choc Chips $1.24
Kroger Biscuits $.40

Winegars:

Dole Pineapple $.99, use insert ocupon $.55/2 = $.72 each when you buy 2
Strawberries $1.191
WF Cheese (32 oz) $4.69
Eggs (doz) $.98
WF Sour Cream $.88
WF Margarine $.79

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2009-04-06T15:50:00.002-06:00

Rite Aid:

Mentos Gum $.99, use insert coupon $1/1 = Free
Bounty paper Towels $.99, use $1/1 from P&G coupon booklet or $.25/1 from insert = Free-$.75
Dawn Dish Soap $.99, use $.50/1 from P&G coupon booklet or $.25/1 from insert = $.50-$.75
Colgate Toothpaste $.99 with in ad coupon, use $1/1 or $1.50/1 from All You magazine = profit - Free

Walgreens:

Hershey's Candy 4/$10, get $5 rebate on 4, use insert coupon B3G1 Free = $2.50 for 4
Colgate Total $3.49, $3.49 in Register Rewards*, use $1/1 or $1.50/1 from All You magazine = Profit
Mentos Gum 2/$2, use insert coupons $1/1 = Free

* Register Rewards - prints out with your receipt and is good on your next purchase.

The P&G booklet was mailed to me after sending in a form and receipts - well worth the trouble!

Groceries!

2009-04-01T13:35:00.002-06:00

Albertsons:

Top Ramen $.15 (24 ct case $3.60)
Albertsons Chicken Noodle or Tomato Soup $.69, use mailer coupon $1/2 = $.19 each when you buy 2
Grapes $.99/lb
Imperial Margarine $.49 with in ad coupon
Boneless Whole Ham $5.96 with in ad coupon ($1.49/lb)
Country Farms Bread $1.47 with in ad coupon
Red Baron Pizza $2.77 with in ad coupon, use insert coupon $1/2 = $2.27 each when you buy 2
Dole Pineapple $1.00, use insert coupon $.55/2 = $.73 each when you buy 2
Post Cereal - here's the biggie - $1.57 each when you buy 2; the following coupons will print out after your purchase:

Buy 3 get $2 off your next purchase
Buy 4 get $3 off your next purchase
Buy 5 or more get $5 off your next purchase

There are insert coupons for $1/2, and $.55/1, you can print a $1/1 coupon here
If you purchase 6 post cereals you will pay $9.42 and get $5 off your next purchase. That is cheap cereal! Add the coupons and get it down nearly nothing!

Harmons:

Pick 5 meat packages for $20
Lettuce $.58/lb
Milk $1.50
WF Cake Mix $.88

Kents:

Baby Carrots (1 lb) $.89
Fuji or Gala Apples $.69/lb
Pillsbury Brownie Mix $.90
WF Pasta $.90
Farmland Boneless Ham $1.49/lb
Bar S Hot Dogs $.90
Pillsbury Cake Mixes $1.25
Milk $1.59
Yo Plus yogurt $2, use insert coupon $1/1 = $1.00
Cream O' Weber Sour Cream (16 oz) $.99
Cream O' Weber Milk Chugs $.50
Celery $.99

Early Bird Sale Saturday, April 4th, 6-12:

Eggs (doz) $.99
Meadow Gold Fudge or Orange Bars $1.25
Strawberries $.99
Bananas $.33/lb
WF Cheese (32 oz) $3.99
Meadow Gold Yogurt $.33
Cheetos or Fritos $1.67

Maceys:

Family Pack of Chicken: wings, thighs, or drumsticks B1G1 Free
Baby Carrots (1 lb) $.90
Potatoes (5 lb) $1.50
WF Pasta $.90
Hunts Spaghetti Sauce $.90
Pillsbury Brownie Mix $.90
Don Julio Tortilla Chips $.90
Geisha Pineapples $.90
WF Glass Cleaner $.90
Soy Sauce $.99
Pillsbury Cake Mixes $1.25
Armour Pepperoni $.90
Bar S Hot dogs $.90
Farmland Ham $1.49/lb
Soft Soap $.90, use insert coupon $.35/1 = $.55
Milk $1.59
Yo Plus Yogurt $2, use insert coupon $1/1 = $1
Stouffer's Family or Easy Express Entrees $5.99, use magazine coupon $1/1 = $4.99

Smiths:
Case Lot

Libby's Vegetables $11.99/case ($.50 each when you buy the case)
Kroger Tuna $23.99/Case ($.50 each when you buy the case)
Skippy PB $15.00/case ($1.25 each when you buy the case)
Kroger Tomato Sauce $4.79/case ($.20 each when you buy the case)
Kroger Fruit $16.56/case ($.69 each when you buy the case)
Hunts Spaghetti Sauce $9.39/case ($.79 each when you buy the case)
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts $1.69/lb
Milk $1.69
Apples $.59/lb
Kroger Veg. Oil $18.00/case ($2.00 each when you buy the case)
BC Brownie Mix $12.00/case ($1.00 each when you buy the case)
Celery $.99

Winegars:

Farmland Ham $1.49/lb
Pillsbury Cake Mix $1.25

Early Bird Sale Saturday, April 4, 6-12:

Grapes $.99/lb
Milk $1.50

What We Are Eating . . .

2009-03-31T14:22:00.002-06:00

Here is what is on this week's menu:

Breakfast:
Cereal, bananas
Yogurt, Banana Muffins (see recipe below)
Baked Oatmeal topped with yogurt
Pancakes, bananas
Yogurt and Peanut Butter Shakes with Toast

Lunch:
Hot Dogs, grapes, cottage cheese
PB, grapes, carrots, yogurt
Cheese Sandwiches, apples, cottage cheese
Macaroni, carrots
PB, apples, leftover veggies

Dinner:
Whole Chicken, Rolls, salad
Chilly Day Chili (see recipe below), Rolls
Hot Dogs, Frozen Veggies Steamed w/cheese, homemade Fries
Homemade Pizza
Leftovers

Banana Muffins:
(I altered the Lion House Banana Nut Bread Recipe)

5 large bananas
1 c applesauce (or you can use 3/4 c oil and 1 more banana)
4 eggs
2 c sugar
4 c flour
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp salt
2 tsp baking powder
3/4 c oats

Mix together. Pour into greased muffin tins, sprinkle with more oats (opt) and bake at 325 for 25-30 min. This recipe makes a lot: 18 muffins and 2 small loaves of bread. I ended up freezing a lot.

Chilly Day Chili
(I got this recipe from a lady in my ward - it has won 2 chili cook - offs)

2 med onions - chopped (I leave these out because I think they smell like B.O.)
1 Green Pepper Chopped
2 T Veg Oil
2 Lbs gr. Beef (I usually do a little less and add more veggies and beans)
2-3 T Chili powder (choose how hot you like it)
1 can (14 1/2 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1/2 c ketchup
1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
2 cans (15 1/2 oz) red Kidney beans partially drained

In large pan saute onions and green pepper in oil until tender. Add beef, brown, drain excess fat. Stir in Chili powder, then add tomatoes, tomato sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Simmer 30 minutes. Add beans, simmer another 15 minutes.

What are you having?

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2009-03-30T06:58:00.002-06:00

Rite Aid:
Not a lot going on here (again!)

Magnum Razor $4.99, $4.99 rebate= Free

Walgreens:

M&M's 2/$5, $1 Easysaver* coupon, use insert coupon $1/2=$1.50 each when you buy 2
Dawn Dish Detergent $.99 with in ad coupon, use insert coupon $.50/1 = $.49
Reynolds Wrap Foil $.89 with in ad coupon, use insert coupon $1/1 = Free
Comet $.50 with in ad coupon
Chapstick Lip Balm $1.99, $1.99 Register Rewards**= Free
Printer Cartridge Refill $7.50, $7.50 Rebate = Free
One A Day Multivitamin Drink $1.49. $1.49 rebate = Free
Wal-itin Allergy Relief $6.99, $6.99 rebate = Free
SoyJoy Bars $.50, use insert coupon B1G1 = $.25 for 2
No Nonsense Pantyhose B1G1 Free, use $1/1 insert coupon = $.25-$.75 each (depending on if you have 2 $1/1 coupons)
Life Cereal $2/$5, $2 in Register Rewards**, use this $1/1 coupon or $1/2 insert coupon = $.50-$1.00 each when you buy 2

*Easy saver - coupon booklet in the front of the store
**Register Rewards - Coupon that prints with your receipt and is good on your next purchase (generally expires in 2 weeks)

Do you PYP?

2009-03-25T16:02:00.002-06:00

If you are a pinching your pennies member, or would like to sign up check out this link to sign up for some great coupons from Albertsons!

Groceries!

2009-03-24T16:49:00.003-06:00

Albertsons:

Kraft Macaroni and Cheese $.49 with in ad coupon (limit 6)
Boneless Skinless Chicken $1.88/lb
Kelloggs Cereal $1.67, use insert coupon $.70/1 = $.97 and get free milk: buy 3 boxes get 1 gallon, buy 5 boxes get 2 gallons, buy 7 boxes get 3 gallons on your next shopping trip

Harmons:

Meat: Pick 5 pkgs for $20
WF Tuna $.69
Harmons Sour Cream (16 oz) $1.00

Kents:

Oranges $.44/lb
Bananas $.49/lb with in ad coupon
Choc Milk (1/2 gallon) $.99 with in ad coupon
Shasta 2 liter $.69
Sun Maid Raisins (32 oz) $3.99
Milk $1.67
Meadow Gold yogurt $.40
Cream O' Weber Cottage Cheese (16 oz) $.99
Cream O' Weber Buttermilk (quart) $.99
Hot Dogs $.69
Jiffy Muffin Mix $.50

Maceys:

Milk $1.59
WF Yogurt $.33
Eggs (doz) $.99
Strawberries (1lb) $1.50
WF Applesauce (24 oz) $1.25
Sun Maid Raisins (32 oz) $3.50
Jiffy Muffin Mix $.47
WF Napkins (120 ct) $.99
WF Cutlery (24 ct) $.59
WF Cottage Cheese (16 oz) $.99
WF or Mountain High Yogurt (32 oz) $2.39

Smiths:

Grapes $.99/lb
Kroger Cottage Cheese (16 oz) $1.00
Milk $1.49
Eggs (1 doz) $1
Smiths Bread $1
Quaker Sales $1.49 (when you buy 4) use insert coupons: $.50/1, $1.00/2, $.55/1, $.75/2, $1.00/1, $.70/1 = $.49-$1.12 each when you buy 4
12 pk Coke Products 3/$12 and get 2 free boxes of Ritz crackers
Home Pride Bread $1.99
Kroger Tortilla Chips $1
Quaker Quakes $.99, use insert coupon $1/1 or $.50/1 = Free-$.49
Kroger Fruit snacks $1

Winegars:

Shasta 2 liter $.69
Hot dogs $.69
WF Canned Fruit $.50

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2009-03-24T15:57:00.002-06:00

Sorry for the lack of posts lately. I have spring fever and spent all of last week outside as much as possible. I will try to be better (and should be seeing as this week is going to be a bit gloomy weather wise).

Rite Aid:

Always Pads or Tampax Tampons $2.99, $1.00 rebate, use insert coupon .50/1 = $1.49
Huggies Diapers $9.99, $2.00 rebate, use printable coupon $5/1 = $2.99

Walgreens:

Hershey's Candy 2/$5, $1/2 Easysaver coupon*, use insert coupon $Buy 3 Get 1 Free = Buy 4 bags = $5.50

$2.50 * 4 = $10
$1/2 * 2 = -$2 (you don't need to use 2 coupons it will automatically take off $2)
Get 1 Free = -$2.50
=4/$5.50

Shout, Nature's Source, Windex, Fantastik 2/$6, $2 rebate (on 2), use insert coupons $1/1 = $2/2

* Easysaver = coupon book at the front of the store

Just as a quick suggestion (I know it is a little late) I ended up using my Albertsons double coupons (in Sunday's paper) to double my $1/1 Dannon Activia Yogurt coupons to get 4 packages of yogurt for free (they were on sale for $2). Remember - they expire today! What did you use them for?

Vitamin B5/Pantothenic Acid

2009-03-23T09:00:00.000-06:00

Vitamin B5/Pantothenic Acid
Overview: Pantothenic acid is a water-soluble vitamin and is a component of Coenzyme A. Coenzyme A is essential for the metabolism of fat, carbohydrates, and protein, as well as the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, and various hormones.
Role: Pantothenic acid is used in the synthesis of Coenzyme A (CoA), which acts as an acyl group carrier. CoA is used to transport acetyl-CoA in the body, which is one of the initial components of the citric acid cycle. The acyl-carrier protein also requires pantothenic acid for its activity as an enzyme. Both CoA and the acyl-carrier protein are required for the production of fatty acids.
RDA:

1.7 mg for infants (0-6 Months)

1.8 mg for infants (7-12 Months)

2 mg for children (1-3 Years)

3 mg for children (4-8 Years)

4 mg for children (9-13 Years)

5 mg for adults

6 mg for pregnant women

7 mg for breast-feeding women

Tolerable Upper Intake Level: No tolerable upper intake level has been set.
Deficiency: Pantothenic acid is found in a wide variety of foods. The only reported cases of pantothenic acid deficiencies have been in medical experiments, in which individuals were fed an antagonist or a semisynthetic diet that had little or no pantothenic acid.
Interactions: Vitamins B12, folate, and biotin are all required for pantothenic acid to function properly.
Natural Sources: Avocado, yogurt, chicken, sweet potatoes, milk, eggs, lentils, peas, mushroom, broccoli, fish, and seafood are all good sources. Whole grains are also good sources, but processing tends to decrease the amount that is available.

Groceries!

2009-03-18T10:12:00.002-06:00

Albertsons:

Kellogg's Cereal $1.50 each when you buy 10, use insert coupon $.70/1 = $.80
Albertsons Cheese (2 lb) $3.99 - first 2
Dan Active or Activia yogurt $2, use insert coupon $1/1 = $1.00

Harmons:

Milk $1.59
Shasta 12 pk $1.67

Kents:

Grapes $.99/lb
WF Hashbrowns $1.67
Shasta 3 liter $.89
WF Whipped Topping $.99
WF 1/2 Gallon Ice Cream $2
WF Milk $1.59
WF Ham or Turkey lunch meat $1.67
WF Mustard $.59
WF Sour Cream (24 oz) $1.19
WF Biscuits 3/$1
Cream O' Weber Milk Chugs 2/$1
Baby Carrots (2 lb) $2
Celery $.99
Limes 7/$1
Lemons 4/$1

Maceys:
Case Lot

WF Cake Mix $.83
Spaghetti O's $.50
WF Apple Juice or Cider (64 oz) $1.50
Hormel Canned Ham or Turkey $.99
WF Ketchup $.68
American Beauty Pasta $.99
WF Apple Sauce $.59
Campbell's Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Chicken Soup $.75, use insert coupon $.40/4 = $.65
WF Ice Cream (1/2 gallon) $2
WF Whipped Toppin $.99
Krusteaz waffles $1.67
Milk $1.59
WF Mustard $.57
Shasta 3 Liter $.99
WF Seasonings $.88
String Cheese (12 oz) $1.99
WF Sour Cream (24 oz) $1.19
WF Biscuits 3/$1
WF Hashbrowns $1.67
Baby Carrots (2lb) $2
WF Cheese (2lb) $5

Smiths:

Strawberries (1lb) $1.49
Potatoes (10 lbs) $1.99
Milk $1.49
Hot Dogs $.79
Hamburger or Hot Dog Buns $.79
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts $1.89

When you buy 10: (I did a lot of these deals last week, and used a $5/$60 purchase from the Happenings book)

Powerade $.49
Kellogg's Cereal $1.69 - use insert coupon $.70/1
Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks $1.49 use insert coupon $.50/2 and Cellfire coupon $.75/2 = $.86
Quaker Oatmeal $1.50 use insert coupon $1/1 (simple Harvest) = $.50
Dixie Napkins or Plates $1.49 use $1/1 or $.35/1 = $.50-$1.14
Quaker Quakes $.49, use insert coupon $1/1 or $.50 = Free
Ziploc Bags $1.99, use insert coupon $1.50/2 = $1.24
Daisy Sour Cream or Dannon Yogurt $1.49

Winegars:

Shasta 3 Liter $.99
Milk $1.59
WF Whipped topping $.99
WF Ice Cream (1/2 gallon) $2
WF Parmesan Cheese (8 oz) $2.89
String Cheese $1.99
Baby Carrots (2lb) $1.99

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2009-03-16T16:33:00.002-06:00

Rite Aid:

i style spray, mousse, wax or glue $4.99, $4.99 rebate = free
Starburst Jelly Beans 2/$3, insert coupon $1/2 = 2/$2
Colgate Total $1.74, use insert coupon $.75/1, $1.00/1 or $1.50/1 (All You magazine) = $.24-$.99
Scotch Brite Sponges $.99, use insert coupon $1/2 = $.49 each when you buy 2

Walgreens:

Easter M&M's 2/$5, $1 Easy Saver Coupon, Insert coupon $1/2 = 2/$3
Revlon Colorsilk Hair Color 2/$4, $2 rebate = 2/$2

Vitamin B6/Pyridoxine

2009-03-16T09:00:00.000-06:00

Vitamin B₆/Pyridoxine
Overview: Vitamin B₆ is a water-soluble vitamin and is a coenzyme in the metabolism of amino acids. It is also involved with the production of energy from stored reserves and the regulation of various hormone levels.
Role: Vitamin B₆ functions as a coenzyme for numerous essential chemical reactions, including the release of glucose from stored glycogen, synthesis of serotonin, niacin (from tryptophan) and heme, and is involved with the regulation of steroid hormones (estrogen and testosterone). It also plays a role in the synthesis of nucleic acids and helps to maintain the health of white blood cell producing lymphoid organs.
RDA:

.1 mg for infants (0-6 Months)

.3 mg for infants (7-12 Months)

.5 mg for children (1-3 Years)

.6 mg for children (4-8 Years)

1 mg for children (9-13 Years)

1.2 mg for girls (14-18)

1.3 mg for boys (14-18)

1.3 mg for adults

1.5 mg for women (51 years and older)

1.7 mg for men (51 years and older)

1.9 mg for pregnant women

2 mg for breast-feeding women

New Research: There is some evidence that vitamins B₆, B₁₂, and folic acid may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, when combined with a well-balanced diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol.
Daily supplementation of vitamin B₆ and ginger during the early stages of pregnancy may help to reduce the subjective feelings of nausea and episodes of vomiting (1).
Tolerable Upper Intake Level: No adverse effects have been associated with high intake from food sources. Tolerable upper intake level for supplements is 100 mg per day. Long term supplementation with high doses of vitamin B₆ can result in nerve damage to the limbs causing pain and numbness.
Deficiency: Dermatitis, anemia, convulsions, depression, and confusion are all clinical signs of vitamin B₆ deficiency.
Interactions: Due to its role in the synthesis of niacin from tryptophan, pyridoxine may reduce the amount needed.
Natural Sources: Baked Potato, chicken, salmon, spinach, banana, and turkey are all good sources of vitamin B₆.

Aikins Murphy, P. 1998. Alternative therapies for nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol. 91:149-55.

A Solution

2009-03-13T15:32:00.002-06:00

I finally ordered a swimsuit. I know you are all relieved. Now I just have to feel confident enough to put it on when it comes. Here are a few of the places suggested to me on my quest:

Kohls - I went to the new store in Clinton. Honestly I couldn't find anything that wouldn't have to be altered

Penny's - Same as Kohls. There is sure a lot of cleavage going around these days.

Modbe - This was my biggest disappointment. I even got invited to a Modbe party - it seemed like fate. I couldn't believe that a designated modest swimming suit seemed sooo immodest.

I then started looking through workout tops trying to decide if any of them would work (yes, I was that desperate).

In a last ditch effort I searched the web again finding some fairly funny suits (here you go if you enjoyed these last time):

Ease of movement (I know - how versatile)
Wholesome wear (these seem like a drowning hazard to me)
Feel Covered and Confident

This is a little closer to what I was looking for:

Tamanu

I ended up finding quite a few things and ordering from here:

Lime Riki

Some of their suits are a bit too frilly or little girlish, but I am happy with my choice. I was also extremely happy with the price.

Anyway I hope this helps anybody else looking for a suit - or at least provides a bit of comic relief.

Excited for Spring!

2009-03-13T15:21:00.004-06:00

I am sorry for the lack of posts this week. Seeing as it is so late in the week I have decided to forgo my usually grocery post. In the meantime I have been yearning (yes yearning) for spring to come. Saturday I finally put away the last of my winter decor and got out the few "springy" items I have. Here is what I came up with:

My wonderfully creative mother gave me this idea last year. I love the simple (and inexpensive) way it adds a lot of color. Yes, it is just a vase with easter eggs - but look closely they are sparkly ::::ohhh::::

This is just a mock variety of the previous idea. It looks a little overwhelming in this picture - I hope it looks better in person - or maybe I am just accustomed to it now?

This is a fun picture holder we have. I added a picture of each boy and the back two are spring photos.

I am fairly certain that these items are what caused the lovely snowstorm Monday.

"Come Spring, Come Grass, Come Green!"

Guest Post: Smith's great deals this week ending 3-17-09

2009-03-13T14:33:00.005-06:00

Here's Staci's Smith's trip today-

I ONLY spent $71.11 after coupons which was a 54% savings.

Pictured: I got Corned beef, cabbage, asparagus, 3 onions, bunch of grapes, 1 avocado, 3 milks, 3 country crock tubs, 3 bags of pasta, cinnamon bread off the reduced rack (French toast on Sat. morning), 4 loaves of 100% whole wheat bread (I freeze them), 5 bags of Quakes (free with coupon), 3 crescent rolls, 1 powerade, 5 boxes of Kellogg Mini-wheat cereal, 4 jars of Classico spaghetti sauce, 1 Diet Dr. Pepper (free with coupon I had), Beef Roasts in a 2 pack reduced manager special-about $6 a roast, 1 bag of frozen chicken breasts, 1 box of fish sticks, 1 24 ct. Tylenol, 2 packages of 200 napkins, 5 soft toothbrushes, 1 small young chicken on manager special

I never have purchased these before. I think I'll cook it in an oven bag like a Thanksgiving turkey. For $2.95 I'll give it a try. I like Manager's special clearance items because you never know what you'll find. I thrive on thinking outside the box! Bon appetite.

Guest Post: Target prescription coupons

2009-03-11T12:43:00.007-06:00

My kids have been sick! Is it spring yet??

My 2nd daughter has one ear infection-She got the generic Amoxicillin antibiotic at Smith's Pharmacy for $9 on Sunday. My third daughter has a double ear infection today and got the generic Amoxicillin antibiotic (exact same one) for $4 at Target.

Did you know Target has $4 generics? I saw on Sunday, March 8th that Target has a coupon for a $10 gift card for a new or transferred prescription (expires March 23). Just give the coupon to the clerk at check out. I got an extra ad at Customer Service because I remembered this coupon when I was leaving the doctors office. Drugs are good thing when you need them....at a great price even better!

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2009-03-09T14:22:00.002-06:00

Rite Aid:

Garnier Fruictis Hair Products 2/$6, $3 rebate (on 2), use insert coupon $1/2 or $1/1 = 2/$1-$2
Garnier Hair Color $4.99, $1 rebate, $2/1 insert coupon - $1.99

Walgreens:

Garnier Hair Products $2.99, Easy Saver Coupon* $2/1, use insert coupon $1/1= Free
Ajax 2/$1 with in ad coupon
Ziploc bags 2/$5, use insert coupon $1.50/2 = 2/$3.50
Colgate Total $3.49, Easy saver coupon $2.50, use insert coupon $1/1 - or print it here = Free
Lysol Disinfecting wipes 2/$4, use insert coupon $1/1=$1
**Warning - This deal hasn't been working at all locations - you should check with your store before completing:

2 Huggies Diapers $10 (jumbo pack)
1 Huggies Wipes $6

Use 2 (or 3 of the$5/1 Huggies if you were able to print them before they reset it) = $11-$16 and get $10 back in Register Rewards

The problem that some people are having is that the Register rewards are not printing. Some stores are saying that it needs to equal $25 before coupons and others say $25 after your coupons. It would be my guess that if the cashier would hit total before scanning your coupons you would get the rewards - but I'm not positive. I know I tried a deal at the Clinton Walgreens where you hand to spend a certain amount to get rewards and they said it was after coupons.

Good Luck!

*Easy Saver - booklet with in store coupons and rebate information available in the store usually visible from the entrance

Vitamin B7/Biotin

2009-03-09T09:00:00.000-06:00

Vitamin B₇/Biotin
Overview: Biotin is a water-soluble vitamin and is a coenzyme in metabolism and the synthesis of fatty acids.
Role: Biotin is attached at the active site of a group of enzymes known as carboxylases. Carboxylase enzymes are used in the catabolism of amino acids, cholesterols, and odd-chained fatty acids. They are also involved in fatty acid synthesis and play a role in DNA replication and translation through modification of histones.
RDA: It is estimated that one third of all pregnant women are deficient in biotin and should take a supplement to ensure that they are getting, at least, the recommended 30 micrograms of biotin per day.

5 micrograms (m g) for infants (0-6 Months)

6 m g for infants (7-12 Months)

8 m g for children (1-3 Years)

12 m g for children (4-8 Years)

20 m g for children (9-13 Years)

25 m g for adolescents (14-18)

30 m g for adults

35 m g for breast-feeding women

Tolerable Upper Intake Level: No tolerable upper intake level has been set.
Deficiency: Symptoms of biotin deficiency include skin rash, hair loss, depression, lethargy, and hallucinations.
Interactions: Large doses of Pantothenic acid may interfere with the intestinal absorption of biotin due to their similar structures.
Avidin, an antimicrobial protein found in egg whites, binds to biotin and prevents its absorption into the body. It is denatured when eggs are cooked and is then digested by the body, which frees up the available biotin. Symptoms of biotin deficiency have been observed in people consuming raw egg whites over long periods of time.
Natural Sources: Liver, egg, and yeast are all excellent sources of biotin. Salmon, avocado, pork, cauliflower, cheese, and raspberries are all good sources.

$3/1 and $5/1 Huggies Diaper printable coupons

2009-03-06T21:04:00.007-07:00

Another guest blog post from Staci!
Have you used printable coupons from the internet? I have used legit (2 coupons printed per computer-NOT photocopied) printables at Walgreens, Walmart, Target, and Albertson's in the past. Smith's is iffy on if they take them and Associated Food Stores-NO! In my opinion, this coupon is HOT! $5/1 package WOW! Hurry print them now before they are gone!

The $3/1 and $5/1 Huggies coupons are found HERE. I hear in the blog world to keep an eye out for a deal in the upcoming Walgreens Sunday ad.

Use these coupons + Register Rewards=cheap diapers.

If not go to Target or the "other store"! Good Luck everyone!

Just for the Smell of It!

2009-03-06T14:55:00.004-07:00

Ok, not really. It doesn't smell, but at least it looks really nice. Steve finished our wonderful compost barrel and we are so excited. We have been wanting to get out and start on our garden so at least we can focus on this for now. We didn't keep it in this spot - we decided to put it up in our garden so that the juice (mmmm) could go directly into our garden (talk about fertile). If you are interested in composting here are some great resources:

California Waste Management
Earth Easy
City Farmer

Groceries!

2009-03-04T14:44:00.003-07:00

Albertsons:

Dannon Yogurt $.39 with in ad coupon, use insert coupon $1/10 = $.29 when you buy 10
Albertsons Bread $.88 with in ad coupon
Minute Maid OJ (64 oz) $1.98 with in ad coupon
Kellogg's Cereal $1.67, use insert coupon $.70/1 = $.97
Albertsons Whole Chicken $.88/lb

Harmons:

Milk $1.67
Old Orchard Froz Juice $1.00
Dole Froz Juice $1.00
Yoplait yogurt $.50, use insert coupon $.40/6 = $.43
Dan Active $2.00, use insert coupon $1/1 = $1.00
Grapefruit 3/$.99

Kents:
Case Lot Sale!

WF Vegetables $.50
Family Pack Chicken Breasts $1.59/lb (plan on 3-5 lbs)
Boneless Extra Lean Pork Spare Ribs $.99/lb
Oranges $.39/lb
Baker's Flour (25lb) $6.99
WF Frozen Vegetables $.69
TJ Farms Apple or OJ Froz $.99
Cream O' Weber Butter $1.67
WF Applesauce (can) $.59
WF Chili $.79
Spaghetti O's $.50
WF Tuna $.68
WF Beans (select varieties ) $.59
American Beauty Pasta $1.09
WF Salt $.50
WF Cake Mixes $.88
WF Ketchup $.89
Milk $1.67
Cream O' Weber Milk Chugs $.50
Meadow Gold Yogurt $.40
WF Margarine $.88
Broccoli or Cauliflower $.69/lb

Maceys:
Case Lot Sale!

WF Vegetables $.59
WF Beans $.59
WF Applesauce $.59
Spaghetti O's $.50
WF Chili $.88
American Beauty Pasta $.99
WF Frozen Vegetables $.75
WF Diced Tomatoes $.59
WF Tuna $.68
WF Seasoning Mixes $.30
WF Olives $.99
WF Green Chiles $.50
WF Jello $.39
WF Oatmeal $1.79
WF Cake Mixes $.83
WF Graham Crackers $1.50
WF Fruit Snacks $.88
Dole Froz Juice Conc $1.00
Milk $1.67
WF Sour Cream $.99
WF Margarine $.88
Mountain High Yogurt (32 oz ) $2.39
Meadow Gold Flavored Milk (16 oz) $.50
Chex Mix $1.25, use insert coupon $.50/1 = $.75
Suave Shampoo or Conditioner $.77, use insert coupon $1/2 or $1.75/3 = $.19-.27 each

Smiths:
*Transfer your prescription and receive a $25 credit added on to your Fresh Values Card toward your next purchase offer expires March 31

Bread or Buns $.88
Quaker Instant Oatmeal $1.50 (when you buy 2), use insert coupons $.70/1 or $1.00/1 (if the high fiber oatmeal is included) = $.50-.80 each (must buy in multiples of 2)
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts $1.69/lb
Potatoes (10 lb) $1.99
Milk $1.59
Hamburger Helper $.99, $1/3 coupon here = $.67
Kroger Sour Cream, cottage cheese or Dip $1.00
Dannon Yogurt $1.99, use insert coupon $1/1 = $.99

Winegars:

WF Vegetables $.48
WF Tomatoes $.48
WF Chili $.69
WF Applesauce $.48
WF Mac and Cheese $.25
WF Drinking Water $2.88 (24 pk)
Spaghetii O's
WF Tuna $.59
WF Tomato Sauce $.250
WF Fries $1.67
WF Butter $1.67
Broccoli $.69/lb
Mountain High Yogurt (32 oz) $2.39
WF Margarine $.88
WF Sour Cream $.99
WF Frozen Vegetables $.75
Cache Valley Cheese (32 oz) $5.99
Chex Mix $1.25, use insert coupon $.50/1 = $.75
WF Beans $.59
WF Cake Mixes $.88

A Pizza Party

2009-03-03T13:56:00.003-07:00

Last week Neal kept asking me if we could have a party (thank you "Go, Dogs, Go!"). Thursday night I gave in and told him we could have a pizza party on Friday. We made decorations Thursday night and that is all Neal talked about on Friday. We even went to the library and Neal picked out a special movie to watch for pizza night (ya . . . Arthur). When Dad got home we made pizzas and had a lot of fun. This was a great way to spend a night home!

Here are some pictures of our frugal pizza party:

We had hanging pizzas, pizza slices, and hats.

These are the guests of honor:
The first is fairly traditional: tomato sauce, seasonings, cheddar cheese, olives, sausage, ham, and pineapple.

The second we decided to make a Greek theme: Greek sauce left over from our "Greek night", cheddar cheese, feta, olives, avocado, and sausage.

And for dessert - fruit pizza! Here is the recipe I used. We just used whatever fruit we could find on sale (bananas, pineapple - canned, kiwi, grapes, and oranges).

This was so much, it was really a special family night. I am definitely going to throw another party soon. What have you done with your kids?

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2009-03-02T13:58:00.002-07:00

Rite Aid:

It's B1G1 Free week (which I really don't care for - maybe if they listed the prices it wouldn't bother me so much)
Ocean Complete Nasal Rinse $8.99, $8.99 rebate = Free
Sinus or Allergy Buster $8.99, $8.99 rebate = Free
SnoreStop Extinguisher $12.99, $12.99 rebate = Free
Soothe eye drops $7.49, $7.49 rebate, use insert coupon $3/1 = Profit
Novitra $7.99, $7.99 rebate, use this $3/1 = Profit
Always or Tampax $2.99, $1.00 rebate, use insert coupon $.50/1 = $1.49

Walgreens:

Dawn dish Soap $.99 with in ad coupon, insert coupon $.50/1 = $.49
Easter M&Ms 2/$5, $1 coupon in Easy Saver Catalog*, use insert coupon $1/2 = 2/$3
Ritz Crackers (4-8 oz) $1.99, B1G1, use insert coupon $2/2 = Free
Axe Hair Care $5.99, $5.99 rebate = Free
Wal-Zyr Allergy Relief $3.99, $3.99 rebate = Free
Extra Strength Headache Relief $2.99, $2.99 rebate = Free

* Easy Saver Catalog - Contains in store coupons and rebate information. You can usually spot a rack with the catalogs as soon as you enter the store.

Vitamin B9/Folic Acid

2009-03-02T09:00:00.000-07:00

Vitamin B₉/Folic Acid
Overview: Folate or folic acid is a water-soluble vitamin and is a coenzyme in the transfer of single carbon units. This is a necessary step in the synthesis of DNA and amino acids and the methylation of DNA. Adequate consumption of folate has been associated with a decreased risk of neural tube defects in fetuses and cardiovascular disease in adults.
Role: Folate is a cofactor in the synthesis of multiple amino acids, including methionine. Folate is also used as a coenzyme for the methylation of DNA, a process that is necessary for normal development. During the growth and development of the fetus, the body is in constant cell division. The fetus requires adequate folate, which is necessary for the synthesis of RNA and DNA.
RDA:

65 micrograms (m g) for infants (0-6 Months)

80 m g for infants (7-12 Months)

150 m g for children (1-3 Years)

200 m g for children (4-8 Years)

300 m g for children (9-13 Years)

400 m g for adults

600 m g for pregnant women

500 m g for breast-feeding women

New Research: There is some evidence that Vitamins B₆, B₁₂, and Folic acid may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, when combined with a well-balanced diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol. All three of these vitamins are cofactors in enzymes that regulate the amount of homocysteine in the blood, which has been associated with cardiovascular disease.
Tolerable Upper Intake Level: In older adults, excessive intake of folic acid may mask vitamin B₁₂ deficiency, a condition that causes nerve damage. For this reason, it is recommended that an individual consume no more than 1,000 micrograms of folic acid per day (No adverse effects have been associated with the consumption of folic acid).
Deficiency: All women who are capable of becoming pregnant should ensure that they are consuming 400 micrograms of folate per day in order to protect their child from neural tube defects. Neural tube defects generally occur 3-4 weeks after conception, before many women even realize that they are pregnant. Elevated blood levels of homocysteine in pregnant women have been linked to increased levels of miscarriage, as well as preeclampsia and placental abruption.
Folate deficiency can also cause a decrease in the amount and/or effectiveness of red and white blood cells, which result in symptoms of fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.
Folate deficiency can be brought about by a multiple factors: poor diet, alcoholism, or an increased demand due to pregnancy or cancer. Folic acid deficiency may be a risk factor for the cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Interactions: The amount of homocysteine in the blood is regulated through two enzymatic pathways. One pathway uses a folate-dependant coenzyme and a B₁₂-dependant coenzyme to convert homocysteine into methionine. The other pathway uses two B₆-dependant enzymes to convert homocysteine to cysteine.
Natural Sources: Fortified cereals, lentils, asparagus, spinach, garbanzo beans, orange juice, and lima beans are all excellent sources of folic acid. Natural sources of Vitamin B₉ generally come in the form of folate, while supplements generally supply it as folic acid (folic acid is more bioavailable than folate). In order to combat neural tube defects, the FDA has mandated that folic acid be added to grains along with thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and iron.

All Things Potty

2009-02-27T14:39:00.000-07:00

Things I've learned this week while potty training (for the first time)

Reward, reward, reward! Neal has loved getting candy and stickers.
Get comfortable in the bathroom - Neal wanted me to go first nearly every time at first
The tub is worth it - if they have an accident it isn't worth the wipes to clean them off, just throw them in the tub and get it all clean
They won't get into much mischief the first week - you won't let them out of your sight, because you know they like to be alone when they are going in their underpants
Get used to the language - you are going to be absolutely sick of saying pee pee, poo poo, and potty - so choose your vocabulary carefully
Stock up - Have a lot of underwear on hand, you go through it fast. Make sure it is something they like, but try and get lights and darks so that you always have some of them in the wash
Go basic - We looked at a lot of different potty chairs and the one we finally decided on was so basic I can't even find the brand name on it. I got it off of KSL for $5. As far as I'm concerned the more simple the style, the better. If there are more parts, just more things to clean up. We were thinking about getting the smaller toilet seat that goes right on the toilet, has anybody tried that? Neal seemed too afraid of the "big potty."
Be brave - I only took Neal 3 places this week - talk about paranoia - I tried not to nag about it, but I was so worried that we would have a major accident at the store. "Clean up - aisle 5 . . . . no 6 . . . ummm, Ma'am could you stop moving?" Luckily he didn't have any accidents while we were out.
Change your perspective - I think the reason he is doing so well is that my main goal is having him be successful instead of just wanting to save money on diapers - like the last time we tried (this has also given me a lot more patience)
Not too bad - So far it has been easier to clean up his underwear, because I have been right there when an accident occurs, than his dirty diapers

The first 5 days Neal had about 2 accidents each day. Yesterday he only had 1 accident and today . . . well, keep your fingers crossed!

I'll keep posting our progress, and I'll tell Neal to try to keep it clean!

Vitamin B3/Niacin

2009-02-26T14:49:00.001-07:00

My Sweet husband has been very diligent in getting more information out on vitamins, I have been a major slacking on posting them. So, here we go:

Vitamin B3/Niacin
Overview: Vitamin B3 is a water-soluble vitamin from which nicotinamide is derived. Nicotinamide plays a key role in energy production and in the synthesis of fatty acids.
Role: In the body, niacin is converted to nicotinamide, which is then used in the coenzymes, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP). NAD and NADP are essential coenzymes for as many as 200 enzymes. They participate in redox reaction by accepting or donating an electron. In energy-producing reactions, NAD is used for the catabolism of carbohydrates, fats, alcohols, and proteins. NADP functions in anabolic reactions, producing fatty acids, cholesterols, and other macromolecules (2). Niacin is also involved in cell signaling.
RDA:

2 mg for infants (0-6 Months)

4 mg for infants (7-12 Months)

6 mg for children (1-3 Years)

8 mg for children (4-8 Years)

12 mg for children (9-13 Years)

14 mg for women

16 mg for men

18 mg for pregnant and breast-feeding women

New Research: Niacin combined with protein, vitamin A, thiamin, and riboflavin may have some protective effect against nuclear cataract (1).
Tolerable Upper Intake Level: While no tolerable upper intake level has been set, 35 mg is generally considered the amount that will cause some discomfort. Flushing, redness of the skin, and upset stomach are some side effects that result when large amounts of niacin are consumed. Flushing is due to the dilation of blood vessels, and causes a burning, tingling, and itching sensation in the face, arms, and chest. The flushing effect is actually sought out by some weightlifters that take large doses of niacin at the start of a work out, in order to avoid a cold start.
Deficiency: Niacin deficiency is called pellagra. Symptoms of pellagra include skin rash, vomiting, diarrhea, bright red tongue, depression, apathy, headache, fatigue, dementia, memory loss, and death. Pellagra is quite rare in industrialized countries and is generally only seen in individuals with chronic alcoholism and rare metabolic disorders. It was more prevalent among the poor in Europe in the 1700’s and in the US in the 1900’s. This was due to their consumption of little, but corn.
Interactions: Riboflavin deficiency would reduce the body's ability to convert niacin to NAD.
Natural Sources: Tuna, salmon, chicken, turkey, cereal, and peanuts are good sources. Spinach, tomato juice, and potatoes are fair sources.

Cumming, R.G., P. Mitchell, and W. Smith. 2000. Diet and cataract: the Blue Mountains Eye Study. Ophthalmology. 107:450–456.

Higdon, J., and V. J. Drake. 2007. Niacin. http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/vitamins/niacin/ Micronutrient Information Center, Linus Pauling Institute. Retrieved January 20, 2009.

Thanks Steve, you're the best!

Vitamin B12/Cobalamins

2009-02-26T12:00:00.001-07:00

Vitamin B₁₂/Cobalamins
Overview: Vitamin B₁₂ is a water-soluble vitamin with the largest and most complex structure of all vitamins. It is used for two enzymes that help regulate plasma homocysteine and create energy from fat and proteins.
Role: Cobalamin is the largest of the vitamins and the only one to include a metal ion, cobalt. Cobalamin is the term for all of the compounds that have vitamin B₁₂ activity. Methionine synthase requires methylcobalamin and folate to function properly and is important for converting homocysteine to methionine. Another enzyme is used to create Succinyl CoA, which is essential for energy production from fats and proteins, as well as the synthesis of hemoglobin.
RDA: People over the age of 50, vegetarians, and pregnant or nursing women should take supplements of vitamin B₁₂ to ensure that they are getting enough. It is recommended that they choose supplements with 3-50 micrograms of vitamin B₁₂.

.4 micrograms (m g) for infants (0-6 Months)

.5 m g for infants (7-12 Months)

.9 m g for children (1-3 Years)

1.2 m g for children (4-8 Years)

1.8 m g for children (9-13 Years)

2.4 m g for adults

2.6 m g for pregnant women

2.8 m g for breast-feeding women

New Research: Osteoporosis was found more often among elderly women in the Netherlands when vitamin B₁₂ was either marginal or deficient in their diet (1).
There is some evidence that Vitamins B₆, B₁₂, and Folic acid may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, when combined with a well-balanced diet that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol.
Tolerable Upper Intake Level: No tolerable upper intake level has been set.
Deficiency: In order for vitamin B₁₂ to be properly absorbed the gastrointestinal tract has to be running properly. Most of the absorbed vitamin is brought into the body using a variety of proteins and enzymes, active transport. The two most common causes of vitamin B₁₂ deficiency are pernicious anemia, an autoimmune reaction that destroys the necessary enzymes for the transport of vitamin B₁₂, and vitamin B₁₂ malabsorption. Malabsorption usually occurs in the elderly and results in inflammation of the stomach lining and decreased acid production, which results in decreased availability of food-bound vitamin B₁₂. Helicobacter pylori, and celiac disease may cause similar symptoms as vitamin B₁₂ malabsorption.
Some of the symptoms associated with vitamin B₁₂ deficiency are loss of energy, shaky movement and unsteady gait, tingling, numbness, incontinence, vision problems, depression, dementia, and mental and mood disturbances. Some of the neurological diseases associated with vitamin B₁₂ deficiency are not reversible with increased supplementation, due to irreversible damage.
Just as with folic acid, vitamin B₁₂ deficiency may lead to an elevated rate of DNA damage and altered methylation of DNA, both of which are important risk factors for cancer (2). Because of its close relationship to folic acid, vitamin B₁₂ deficiency may play a role in neural tube defects as well. Vitamin B₁₂ is essential for the regulation of homocysteine, which is considered a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.
Interactions: The amount of homocysteine in the blood is regulated through two enzymatic pathways. One pathway uses a folate-dependant coenzyme and a B₁₂-dependant coenzyme to convert homocysteine into methionine. The other pathway uses two B₆-dependant enzymes to convert homocysteine to cysteine.
Natural Sources: Clams, mussels, crab, salmon, beef, rockfish, milk, eggs, chicken, and turkey are all excellent to good sources of vitamin B₁₂. Fortified cereals are another good source.

Dhonukshe-Rutten RA, Lips M, de Jong N, Chin A Paw MJ, Hiddink GJ, van Dusseldorp M, De Groot LC, van Staveren WA. 2003. Vitamin B-12 status is associated with bone mineral content and bone mineral density in frail elderly women but not in men. J Nutr. 133:801-7.

Higdon, J., and V. J. Drake. 2007. Vitamin B₁₂. http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/vitamins/vitaminB12/ Micronutrient Information Center, Linus Pauling Institute. Retrieved February 9, 2009.

Is it Worth Trying?

2009-02-25T14:41:00.001-07:00

I have debated many times on trying store brands. Especially for Neal, he has such sensitive skin. I've tried several store brand diapers and I now know what works and what won't for us. I was in serious need of baby lotion last month and thought I'd try the Walgreens brand (seeing as I needed to stop there anyway). Upon application both boys cried. This happened over several days - I really thought they just thought it was cold at first. When Neal learned to say "it stings" I decided the lotion probably wasn't just cold. I had bought a really big bottle and not wanting it to go to waste I e-mailed Walgreens to let them know how unsatisfied I was. In the reply they told me to simply take the lotion back to the store and if I still had a receipt I could receive a full refund. Without a receipt I can pick a replacement product - score. The verdict? Definitely give generics a try! If you don't like the product most stores will work with you on exchanging it (especially if you are a tyrant like myself).

Groceries!

2009-02-25T13:54:00.002-07:00

Albertsons:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast $1.88/lb
Eggs (1 doz) $.99
Banquet Pot Pies 3/$1
GM Cereals or Fruit Snacks $1.50 each when you buy 4, use insert coupons $.75/1, $.50/2, $1.50/3 = $.75-$1.25 each when you buy 4
$.70 each when you spend $10 on these items: marshmallows, Mac & Cheese, Jello, daisy sour cream, use insert coupon: $1 off 3 jello items and at least 1/2 gallon of milk
$1.40 each when you spend $10 on these items: Duncan Hines brownie mix, Craisins, McCormick Seasoning Grinders, use insert coupon: craisins $.55/1
$1.75 each when you spend $10 on these items: Several glad products, Capri Suns, Clorox bleach, Oreos, Nestle Ready to bake cookies, use insert coupons: cookies $1/1
Banquet Value Meal $.79 with in ad coupon
Nabisco Saltine Crackers $.97 with in ad coupon

Harmons:

Potatoes 10 lb $2.50
Limes 7/$.98
Dole Salads $1.67

Kents:

Potatoes (10 lb) $1.99
WF 5 Qt Ice cream or sherbet $4.99
Kellogg's Cereal $2, insert coupons $.70/1 = $1.30
Cream O' Weber Milk 1/2 gallon $.99
Eggs (dozen) $.89
TJ Farms Orange or Apple Juice Froz conc. $.99
Bakers Flour (25 lb) $6.99
Grandma Sycamore's Bread $1.89
WF "oreos" $.99
Gatorade (32 oz) $1.00
Cream O' Weber Buttermilk $.99
Cream O' Weber Cottage Cheese $.99
Meadow Gold Sour Cream $.99
Cream O' Weber 1/2 Gallon Choc Milk $1.25
WF Soft Margarine $.89
Meadow Gold Yogurt 10/$4
WF Frozen Vegetable Blends $1.50
WF Hot Dogs $.99
WF Burritos 3/$1
Flour Tortillas $.99
Mangos $.99 each
Lemons 4/$1
Red Potatoes $.69/lb
Yams $.99/lb

Maceys:

Breaded Chicken (10 lb) $9.99
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts $1.74 (super saver pack - generally around 5 lbs if I remember correctly)
Lynn Wilson Burritos (10 pk) $2
TJ Farms Hashbrowns $.99
WF Frozen Vegetables $.99
Swanson Pot Pies 2/$1
Powerade (32 oz) $.89
WF Pasta 3/$5
WF Baking Cocoa $1.79
WF Baking Powder $.89
WF Pancake/Waffle Mix $1.63
WF Hot Dogs $.99
WF Frozen Burritos 3/$1
WF Yogurt 10/$4
WF Bisquits 3/$1
WF Cottage Cheese $.99
WF Soft Margarine $.89
Milk $1.67
Grandma Sycamore's Bread $1.89
Carrots (2lb) $1.69

Smiths:

Grapes $.99/lb
Milk $1.69
Powerade (32oz) $.69
Chicken of the Sea Tuna $.69
Best Foods Mayo $2.99, insert coupon $.60/1 = $2.39
Split Chicken Breasts $1.49/lb
Bar S Hot Dogs $1.00
Green Giant Steamers $2, insert coupon $1/1= $1
Starkist Tuna $1.00, use insert coupon B2G1 = $2 for 3

Winegars:

WF Yogurt 10/$4
WF Milk $1.99
WF Hot Dogs $.99
WF Burritos 3/$1
Lemons 4/$1
Kiwi 3/$1

A 2 Piece Question

2009-02-24T14:00:00.000-07:00

So I realized the other day that it has been nearly 5 years since I purchased a swimming suit and the sad part is that I have searched for one every year. My issues with the suits I'm finding are:

1- I would need to alter them because they don't quite cover everything

2-They are overly modest like this

3- They are super expensive (I am willing to shell out more money than I normally would because I really need one this year- but $100? That is way out of my price range)

I found this site. It has a couple of good options (especially the shorts), but I'm not very fond of any of the tops.

Maybe I'm being unreasonable.

So- Where do you get your suits?

What is a reasonable price?

Do I dare buy it online before I've tried it on?

Is it worth buying if I have to alter it?

I know I should have been more diligent in finding one last fall, but oh well. If you see me in my same old faded suit just say hi and pretend you don't notice how well worn it is. :)

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2009-02-23T13:02:00.002-07:00

Rite Aid:

Garnier Fructis Shampoo, Conditioner, Mousse or Hairspray $2.99, $2.99 rebate, Insert coupon $1/1 = $1 profit
SoyJoy Bars 10/$5, $5 rebate, insert coupons $3/10, B1G1, or $1/4 = profit

Walgreens:

Q-tips $1.99 with in ad coupon, insert coupon $.30/1 = $1.69
Hersheys candy B1G1 free with in ad coupon, insert coupon B1G1 = free
Foil $.89 with in ad coupon, insert coupon $1.00/1 = free
Gillette Fusion Razor $8.99, $6 in register rewards, $4/1 insert coupon = $1.00 profit
Colgate toothpaste $.99, insert coupon $.75/1 = $.24

Groceries!

2009-02-18T15:53:00.002-07:00

Albertsons:

Albertsons American Singles $.88 with in ad coupon
Albertsons potato Chips (11 oz) $.97 with in ad coupon
Albertsons Butter $1.67
Albertsons Frozen Vegetables $1.00
Welch's Frozen Grape Juice Conc. $1

Sale: Buy 10 items and get $10 coupon good on your next purchase

GM Cereal and breakfast bars
Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks
Progresso Soup
BC cake mixes, cookie mixes, and frosting
Pillsbury products
Macaroni Grill Dinners

There are also some great catalinas (coupons that will print with your receipt) mentioned at the Pinching your Pennies website. I will come up with some scenarios and post them later in the week.

Harmons:

Milk $1.67
Xzude Drinks 2/$1
Hamburger Helper, Progresso and Green Giant Vegetables $1.10 with in ad coupon (this is a Harmons only coupon, so you should be able to use your manufacturer's coupons in addition)

Kents:

Milk $1.67
Grapes $.99/lb
Oranges $.44/lb
Bananas 2lbs/$1 with in ad coupon
Cream O' Weber Sour Cream (16 oz) $.69 with in ad coupon
Dreyer's Ice Cream $1.67 with in ad coupon (45 oz on Utes Blitz or Double Fudge Brownie)
Garden Club PB (18oz) $1.50
WF Cooking Spray $1.67
WF Cranberry Sauce $.50
Milk $1.67
Cream O' Weber Milk Chugs 2/$1
Cream O' Weber Cottage CHeese $1.67
Meadow Gold Yogurt $.40
Tortillas $.99
WF String Cheese 4/$1
Limes 8/$1
Pears $.69/lb

Maceys:

Roma Tomatoes $.59/lb
Milk $1.67
Tortilla Chips $.99
Flour Tortillas $.99
WF Green Chiles 2/$1
Hunt's Spaghetti Sauce $1
La Moderna Pasta (7 oz) 3/$1
WF 10-12 oz Pasta $.85
WF Cooking Spray $1.50
Juicy Juice 8 pk $1.67, use insert coupon $1/1 = $.67
Farmland Sausage $1.00
String Cheese 4/$1
Farmland Boneless Ham $1.49/lb
Tortillas $.99
WF Yogurt (32 oz) $1.50
Old Orchard Frozen Juice Conc $1.00
WF Grape Juice Cocktail Conc. $.67
Limes 8/$1
Broccoli or Cauliflour $.69/lb

Smiths:
*In the mail today there was a separate ad for Smith's pharmacy - if you transfer your prescription get a $20 gift card.

Extra Lean Ground Beef $1.89/lb
Kroger Cottage Cheese or Sour Cream $1.00
Kroger Yogurt 3/$1
Kraft Cream Cheese $.99
Milk $1.69
Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers $2, insert coupons $1/1 or $.50/1 = $1.00-$1.50
Chicken of the Sea Tuna $.69

Winegars:

Extra Lean Ground Beef $1.99/lb
Farmland Sausage $.99
Limes 8/$1

Sale: February 21st only:

WF Cheese (32 oz) $4.99
Bananas $.44/lb
Potatoes (10 lb) $1.98

Guest blog post from Staci

2009-02-17T21:45:00.012-07:00

Hello- My name is Staci. I am guest blogging here today. Thanks Mandy for letting me post. I just started my own blog over at http://www.designingandmotherhood.blogspot.com/

Feel free to stop by and check it out sometime.

Well, here goes my guest blog spot.

I like coupons but...I like manager's special deals too!I have noticed most stores mark down almost expired meats (and other items) of great quality each morning. Stores want to unload fresh items before they hit the sale by date. (Check the dates thoroughly!) Obviously, we know to stay away from some scary looking and smelling meats. I have found some wonderful cuts of meat at Smiths.

Here's the prices pictured in the photo above:
Deli pizza 3.99 (cooked for dinner that night)
Turkey breakfast sausages leaner so I pay more for it-$1.57
Nice Top sirloin steaks packs $5.29 (for 2) & $4.91 (for 2)
A pot roast for a Sunday dinner in the crock pot $5.XX
French bread $.79 (Yes, it was soft)
Solo brand plastic cups for an upcoming b-day party $1.00

The meat pictured above was found at a local Associated Food Store in Utah-The cut is called a Family butt steak with peppers, cilantro, and onions it weighed 1.77lb for $2.28 (for the two)= $1.29 a pound. This meat fed my young family of 5 for a quick week night meal. This cut had a great flavor and was moist. I cooked it in a skillet. Yum!

Here's what I do: Go to the meat department and look for the discounted meat shelf first then scan the meat department shelves for the stores clearance tags. Smith's tags are yellow-Target's are white-Walmart's are yellow-Associated Food Stores are white

Pictured above-Found at Walmart- Honeysuckle turkey breakfast sausage $1.63 for 1 lb. Regular price $2.33 This is extra lean turkey-not as cheap as regular pork sausage of course much less fat. Great for breakfast casserole or for turkey sausage patties. Look for the yellow tags at Walmart.

Why do I buy Manager's special items? I want a great price on items we consume on a regular basis, something different, an organic or specialty item marked down so we can try it.

When do you eat or freeze them? We usually eat some of the items for dinner that night. I freeze the extra meat after vacuum sealing and labeling them (I list the sale by date on the package and try to use it in a month or less). Eat it or freeze right when you get home!

What else do you get besides manager's special meats?
These are the areas I look for at Smith's:

Deli area- Marked down exotic cheeses
Bakery- Unique bakery breads found on what I call the "rotten rack" (not really but a funny name) back by the produce/juice section of my store
Refrigerated Juices- I find exotic juices marked down in the refrigerated section- Example: Guava & Mango $.99 for 1/2 gallon
Dairy- Yogurts, cottage cheese, & smoothies are clearanced often- Add a coupon for more savings!
Milk- Heavy whipping cream, Soy, lactose free, and regular milk are marked down occasionally
Meat- Meats of all kinds are marked down. Lots of chicken too (not as much boneless skinless)
Seafood-Salmon, shrimp, and Tilapia are OK if we eat them that night
Produce- Red tape Bananas about .39 a lb. If they have some some brown on the peels often the insides are fine.
Refrigerated Produce- Bagged salads, organic spinach and greens-great deals-Don't forget to ask yourself, "Can I use this salad (produce) before it goes bad?" Fruit trays are marked down often. Sometimes they aren't a great deal even marked down.
Organic Produce section- I have found veggies and fruit marked with yellow tags.
Cheeses and lunch meats- My store has a managers special area. Look for the yellow tags.
Floral Department- Great for a new houseplant or a gift for friends or family.
Clothing- I bought a local college T-shirt and bumper sticker once for cheap!

You never know what you'll find at Smiths! I hope you found these tips helpful this week. Mandy I know you find great deals....Share, share, share!!

Thanks for letting me guest post Mandy. Cheers to good deals!

2009-02-17T14:49:00.002-07:00

Rite Aid:

Colgate B1G1 Free, use 2 $1/1 coupons, that should be a fairly good deal, but I haven't been in yet to check out the price
Rite Aid Diapers (jumbo) 2/$15, $3 Rebate, use Rite Aid coupon you can get when you sign up here ($1/1) = 2/$11 or $5.50 each
Speed Stick or Lady Speed Stick 4/$9, $5 rebate (on 4), use $.75/1 insert coupons = $1.00 for 4 if you have enough coupons
Soft Soap $.99, insert coupon $.35 = $.64

Walgreens:

Hershey's chocolate or Twizzlers spend $10, get $5 rebate - You can get 2 bags of Kisses and 4 bags of licorice for $5 after the rebate
Lysol Cleaners B1G1 (the have to be the same price) Use insert coupons $.75/1-$1.00/1 = approx. $1.25 each
Walgreens Brand Diapers (Jumbo) $8.99, use insert coupon $3/1, when you buy 2 $2 is automatically taken off your total = $10 for 2

Groceries!

2009-02-11T08:45:00.001-07:00

Albertsons:

Albertsons brand Cheese B1G1 Free
Albertsons Ice Cream (1.75 qt) $1.99
Kellogg's Cereal 50% off, insert coupons $1/1
Albertsons Vegetables $.50
I have heard that their Scott toilet paper is on sale for $1, use insert coupon (from Sunday) $1/1 = Free TP!

Harmons:

Blueberries or blackberries $1.67 (4.4-5.5 oz pkg)
Shasta12pk $2.00
WF Tuna $.69
GM Products $10 off when you spend $25 with in ad coupon. This makes the GM cereal and fruit snacks $1.50. Use insert coupons $1/2, $.50/2, $.75/2, $1.00/3 = $1.00-$1.25 each (this isn't like the in ad Quaker coupon that was a manufacturer's coupon, this is a Harmon's coupons so they should be taking your manufacturer's coupons in addition to the in ad coupon)
Barbasol Shave Cream $.79
Red Potatoes $.79/lb

Kents:

Milk $1.67
TJ Farms Frozen OJ $.99
Shasta 12 pk $2.00
Grandma Sycamore Bread $1.67
WF Chili $.99
WF Hot Cocoa $.99
Garden Club Peanut Butter (18oz) $1.67
Meadow Gold Sour Cream $.99
Cream O' Weber Cottage Cheese (24 oz) $2
Cream O' Weber Milk Chugs $.50
WF 8 oz Cheese $1.67
Red, Gold, or Orange Peppers $.79 ea
Kiwi 4/$1
Bananas $.59

Maceys:

Milk $1.67
WF Cake Mixes $.79
WF Frosting $.99
WF Ice Cream or Sherbet (5 qt) $4.77
WF Cherry Pie Filling $1.99
WF Graham Cracker Pie Crusts $.88
WF Egg Noodles $.88
WF Hot Cocoa Mix $.99
Nalley Pickles $1.88, insert coupon $1.50/2 = $1.13 each (when you buy 2)
WF Peanut Butter (18 oz) $2.00
WF Cheese (8 oz) $1.67
Scotch Packaging tape $.99 with in ad coupon

Smiths:

Milk $1.67
Kroger Cheese (32 oz) $4.99
Strawberries (1 lb) $1.67
Kroger Vegetables $.50
Kroger Instant Oatmeal $.99
Bar S Hot Dogs $.89

Get $3 off when you buy 10 participating items:

Chef Boyardee $.50, insert coupon $.35/3 = $.38 each
GM Cereal $1.69, insert coupon $1/1, $1/2, $1/3 = $.69-$1.36
Totino's Pizza or Pizza Rolls $.95, insert coupon $.35/1, use cellfire coupon $.50/1=$.10 each (on the pizza rolls)

Cupid's Night out Sale (feb. 13th 3pm-11pm):

Blueberries (6 oz) $1.00
Grapes $1.00/lb
Haagen Dazs or Ben $ Jerry's Ice Cream Pint $1.88 (for the lonely soul)
Mott's Apple Juice (64 oz) $.99
Kroger OJ (1/2 gallon $.99

Winegars:

Tyson Cronish Game Hens $250
WF Apple Pie Filling $1.79
WF Vegetable Blends (16 oz frozen) $1.50
WF Waffles $1.67

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2009-02-09T08:11:00.002-07:00

Rite Aid:
There is a rumor going around that Rite Aid does not accept printed manufacturer coupons, I don't recall having any trouble with them taking them, has anybody else?

Garnier Nutrisse Hair Color $5.99, in ad coupon $2.00/1, insert coupon $2/1 = $1.99
Windex, Pledge, Fantastik $2.99, in ad coupon $.50/1, print coupons here for $1/1 = $1.49
Drano $3.49, in ad coupon $.50/1, print $1.50/1 coupon here= $1.49
Bayer Low Dose Aspirin is a good moneymaker, check out the details here
Finesse Hair Care $2.99, $1.99 rebate, insert coupon $.75/1 = $.25
Garnier Fructis Stylers $2.99, $2.99 rebate, insert coupon $1/1 = $1 profit
Durex condoms $6.00, insert coupon $2/1 = $2 profit
Buy Gillette Fusion Razor get Shave Gel free, use $4/1 and $1/1 coupons = $5 off and free shave gel (sorry, I don't have the price of the razor)
Loreal and Almay are B1G1 Free use 2 manufacturer coupons to get free or almost free products

Walgreens:

Windex, Shout, Fantastik, Windex $2.50, $2 rebate (on 2), print coupons here for $1/1 or $1.50/1 = Free or $.50 each
Drano, Pledge, Scrubbing Bubbles Toilet Cleaner, Pledge Multi wipes $3.50, $2 rebate (on 2) print coupons here (same link as above) for$1.50/1 = $1 each
Gillette Fusion Razor $8.99, $6 Register rewards *, insert coupon $4/1 = $1 profit

Good luck!

Groceries!

2009-02-05T09:56:00.002-07:00

Albertsons:
Hooray! They have their in ad coupons to double manufacturers coupons (up to $1.00)!

Fresh Express Garden Salad $.99
Lipton Sides $1.00, insert coupon $.75/2, double it = $.50 for 2
Totinos pizza rolls $1.00, insert coupon $.35/1, double it = $.30
Ben & Jerry's Ice cream (3.6 oz) $1.00
Dannon light and fit yogurt $.50, $1/10 = $.40 each
Nalley Pickles $2.50, insert coupon $1.50/2, use your double coupon = $1.25 each when you buy 2
Goldfish crackers $1.50, coupon in store $1.00/2, use your double coupon = $1 for 2
Baby carrots (1 lb) $1.00

There are several B1G1 coupons in the ad. Here are the deals I came up with (I don't think they will let you double - because that would mean you can use 2 in store coupons on 1 product):

Romano's Macaroni Grill Dinner 2/$7 get $2 off chicken, use 2 insert coupons $1/1 = $5 for 2 macaroni grill dinners and $2 worth of chicken
Dannon Frusion Smoothies 5/$5 get 4 pk La Creme Yogurt, use insert coupon $1/4, double it = 5 smoothies and 4 pk creme yogurt for $3

Harmons:

Potatoes (5 lb) $.99
Whole Carrots (2 lb) $1.00
Milk $1.99
Dan Active or Activia yogurt $2, insert ocupon
$1/1 = $1

Kents:
Saturday Early (6-12) bird sale:

Milk $1.67
WF Saltine Crackers $1.88
Eggs (doz) $.99
Cream O' Weber Cottage Cheese $.88
Spaghetti O's $.44
Bakers Flour (25 lbs) $6.79
Ground Beef (10 lb) $1.99/lb
Dreyer's Ice Cream (1.5 quart) $2.00
Meadow Gold Yogurt 3/$1
Bananas $.39/lb
WF Cheese (32 oz) $4.99

All Week Long:

Broccoli or Cauliflower $.69/lb
Potatoes (15 lb) $2.79
Garden Club Peanut Butter $1.67
Eggs (doz) $.99
WF Hot Dogs $.99
Yams $.99/lb
Blueberries or Blackberries $1.25
Peppers $.50

Maceys:

Baby Carrots (1lb) $.79
Jello $1
Milk $2
WF Margarine $.75
WF Cottage Cheese $.99
Duncan Hines Brownies $1.09, insert coupon $.35/1 = $.74

Smiths:

Fresh Whole Chicken $.59/lb
Grapes $.99/lb
Milk $1.67
Yoplait Yo Plus $2, insert coupon $1/1 = $1
Ocean Spray Juice $1.98, insert coupon $1/1 = $.98
Dial Soap $1, insert coupon $.35 = $.65

Get $3 off when you buy any 10 (prices listed take into count the $3 off)

GM Cereal $1.69, insert coupons: $1/1, $.75/1. $1.00/3 = $.69-$1.37
Chef Boyardee $.50, insert coupon
Totino's Pizza ROlls $.95, insert coupon $.35 = $.60

Winegars:

Wf Saltines $1.88
WF Cottage Cheese $1.00
WF Hot Dogs $.99
WF Margarine $.75

Happy Shopping! Let me know if you see deals while you are out . . . there are sooo many this week, I'm sure I overlooked some of them!

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2009-02-03T20:41:00.002-07:00

Rite Aid:

Almay Eye Cosmetics $5.99, $3 rebate, insert coupon $1/1 = $1.99
Covergirl Cosmetics B1G1 Free, use 2 $2/1 = $4 off the price of 1 product, that should be a pretty good deal
Colgate toothpaste or toothbrush $2.99, in ad coupon $1/1, insert coupon, $ .75/1=$1.24

Walgreens:

Revlon Concealer or Foundation $9.99, $9.99 rebate, $2/1 coupon = $2 profit
Revlon Creme Lip Gloss $9.99, $9.99 rebate, $2/1 coupon = $2 profit
Garnier Fruictic Hair Care $3.99, $3.99 rebate = Free
Old Spice Deodorant $1.99 with in ad coupon, insert coupon $1/2 = $1.49

Another Baking Day

2009-01-30T10:33:00.000-07:00

Here is what I accomplished on Monday's baking day.

Seeing as I knew it wouldn't be quite as involved as last week, I waited until both boys were napping before I began. It was amazing how much faster everything went!

I started out with this giant sack of beef (I know . . . . mmmm). It was on sale at Kent's for about $1.52/lb (unadvertised). I don't know how long it will be running, but it fit into our budget for the week so I jumped on it! I needed to brown some for this weeks meals, but also wanted to separate it into baggies with approximately 1 lb each. Anyway, here is what I ended up with:

You can see a few baggies of cooked and a few uncooked. I froze all of them (other than what I will be using this week . . . that is in the container).

Here is one of my quirks: if I am storing leftovers in a container I can't see into I put a non-matching lid on, this way when I am looking for yogurt or cottage cheese I don't get grossed out by opening leftovers. Thus the cottage cheese container with the yogurt lid.

This is the best way I have found to save money on beef. Let me know what you do.

The next step was to prepare my baked oatmeal batter for Tuesday's breakfast. I mixed everything together and put it in the pan and into the fridge. I like to stick a note of temp and baking time (it saves me from having to pull out the whole recipe box and search for the recipe yet again).

I then made some zucchini muffins. I made some for breakfast and some for snacks. The snack muffins contain butterscotch chips from the deal I got at Kents this week. And of course, I ended up freezing some. I decided to freeze the muffins in twos, because we rarely eat just 1 muffin and was happily surprised that I had enough batter to make some bread to freeze.

First Finished Project

2009-01-29T19:16:00.003-07:00

I finally finished one project. I made an apron and chef hat for my niece Grace. I was excited to get them finished (especially since it is her birthday tomorrow). The chef hat is a really easy pattern and is free. Stacy found it here and told me about it. Thanks Stacy!

Groceries!

2009-01-28T14:40:00.002-07:00

Albertsons:

Hamburger Helper $.98 with in ad coupon, print $1/3 coupon here = .65 each
Albertsons frozen juice concentrate $.99
Nabisco crackers $1.99, insert coupon $2/2 = $1 each (if you buy 3 - get free cheese - easy cheese, Velveeta, or Kraft slices)
Chicken Breasts $1.77/lb
Eggs 1 doz $1.19
Juicy Juice 8 pk $2, insert coupon $1/1 = $1
Barilla Pasta $.99
Mountain High Yogurt (32 oz) $1.99, insert coupon .50/1 = $1.50
Dannon Activia Yogurt or Dan Active drink $2, insert coupon $1/1 = $1.00 each

Harmons:

Milk $1.99
Daisy sour cream $1, insert coupon $.50/1 = $.50
Nabisco crackers $1.67, insert coupon $2/2 = $.67 each

Kents:

Pork Spare Ribs $.99/lb (in family pack)
Grapes $1.25/lb
Don Julio Tortilla chips $.88
Cream O' Weber Sour Cream (16 oz) $.79
Grandma Emilie's Bread $2
Meadow Cold Yogurt 10/$4
Milk $2.50
WF Cheese $4.99 (32 oz)
Bar S Hot Dogs $.99
Baby Carrots (2 lb) $2

Maceys:

Baby Carrots (2 lb) $2
Bar S Hot Dogs $.69
Grandma Emilie or Grandma Sycamore bread $2
WF seasoning mix 2/$.79
McCormick seasonings 2.$.89, insert coupon $.25/2 = $.74 for 2
McCormick grinders $1.25, insert coupon $.25 = $1.00
WF Black Beans $.59
WF Cheese (32 oz) $4.99
Lynn Wilson tortillas $.99
WF or WF active yogurt 10/$4
Sour cream (16 oz) $.99
Milk $1.67
Saltine Crackers $1.67
Apples (3 lb bag) $3.49 B1G1 free

Smiths:

Hormel Chili $.50 (when you buy 10) $.55/2 = .23 each (if you have plenty of coupons)
Powerade $.79, insert coupon $.40/1 = $.39
Grandma Emilie's Bread $2
French's mustard $1.19-$1.69, insert coupon $.75/1 = $.44-.94
Green Giant Steamers $1.00-$1.50, insert coupon $.50/1 = $.50-$1.00
Ken's salad dressing $1.49, insert coupon $1/1 = $.49
Pace Picante Salsa $1.49, insert coupon .75/2 = $.99 each

Winegars:

Pork Ribs $1.29/lb
Bar S Hot Dogs $.99
WF Sour Cream $.99
WF Beef Stew $1.67

Another Menu

2009-01-27T14:35:00.002-07:00

I wasn't going to continue listing my menus, but Heidi said she liked getting some new ideas. So, if you don't like me doing this please contact Heidi. And I could use some new ideas too so if anybody would like to do a guest post on their menu or has a great recipe, let me know.

I'm sure you noticed that I only plan out 5 days worth of food. This is due to the fact that we eat with family on Sunday and leftovers on Saturday.

Here is what we will be eating this week:

Breakfast:

Cereal and bananas
baked oatmeal (be sure to note the less fattening alt.) with yogurt
zucchini muffins (recipe below) and grapefruit
yogurt smoothies (recipe below) with bananas or grapefruit and toast
Oatmeal and peaches

Snack:

yogurt and bananas
chips with cheese
bananas and peanut butter
zucchini muffins (see below) and cottage cheese
grapefruit and cheese

Lunch:

cheese sandwiches and carrots
PB sandwiches and green beans
Mac and cheese with peas
Top Ramon with steamed veggies (I do this with frozen mixed veggies and add a little bit of cheese - it's great for when there aren't many sales on veggies)
Hot dogs and leftover veggies

Dinner:

Pop Ups (recipe below) and fruit
Spaghetti with bread
Chicken nuggets, corn, fruit
Shepherd's Pie (I will be using instant potato flakes - what a slacker)
Out to eat for Grace's birthday (can you believe she will be 5?)

Zucchini Muffins:

3 c flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
2 tsp cinnamon
3 eggs
1 c oil (I used 1 c applesauce)
2 c sugar (I used 1 3/4)
1 T vanilla (I did 2 tsp)
2 c grated zucchini
- I also added 1 c of oats
-after filling 1/2 of the muffin tins I then added 1/2 bag of butterscotch chips

Mix wet ingredients. Add in dry. Bake 325 in greased pan for 25 min (muffins) or 35 min (small loaf).

Yogurt Smoothies:

2 ripe bananas (if frozen you don't need ice)
1-2 c yogurt (any flavor)
2 c milk
a little vanilla
3 cubes ice

(sorry this is what happens when I try to guess how much I put in)

Pop Ups:
These are also known as German Pancakes - and no they are not healthy

1/2 c butter
6 eggs
1 c flour
1/4 c sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1 c milk

Preheat oven. Put 1 cube butter (1/2 c) into pan and put it into the oven to melt while the oven is preheating. Mix all other ingredients. When butter is close to melted take out of oven and make sure the sides of the pan are also covered with butter. Pour other ingredients into the center of the pan (don't mix- even though it looks weird and you really want to). Bake at 400 for 20 minutes. Top with syrup, fruit, or jam.

I will be posting my baking day later in the week!

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2009-01-26T14:41:00.003-07:00

Rite Aid:

Garnier Fructis Shampoo or Conditioner $2.99, $2.99 rebate= free
Huggies Wipes (184-232) $6.99, $1.00 rebate, Coupon $.50-$1.00/1 = $4.99-5.49
Veet Blade less Razor Kit $3.99, $3.00 rebate= $.99
Pringles $.97, insert coupon $.30/3 = $.87 each

Walgreens:

Revlon ColorSilk $1.99 with in add coupon, insert coupon $1/2 (some say they have a $1/1 - but I don't have it) = $1.49 each when you buy 2
Reynolds Wrap foil $.89 with in ad coupon, use insert coupon $1/1 (if you haven't already) = Free
Colgate $2.99, $2 Register Rewards *, insert coupon $.75/1 = $.24
Hershey Candy Bars B1G1 with in ad coupon, use insert coupon B1G1 = Free

*Register rewards print out with your receipt as a gift card for your next purchase.

Other Deals I saw Today:

Albertsons had a tub of Yoplait yogurt for $2 (reduced for quick sale), use insert coupon from yesterday $.50/1 = $1.50

Kent's had butterscotch Nestle morsels for $.99, use insert coupon $1/2 = $.49 each when you buy 2, they also had cottage cheese for $.50 and a pint of Chocolate milk for $.25.

Lay it on me . . . what did I miss??

Promises . . . Promises

2009-01-23T13:06:00.000-07:00

As promised here are the results of my baking day (Monday) and my Chicken Enchilada Recipe:

To make baking easy on myself - and my family - I try to set aside a baking day to prepare the majority of the baked goods for the week. I use my weekly menu and make a list from there. This week I baked: Banana Blueberry Muffins, Carrot Bread, and Rolls.

Here is my carrot bread:

Here are my muffins:

When I make a lot of something I freeze some to use later as planned or an emergency snack. Here are the things I froze:

several muffins (I am getting low on freezer bags so I chose to wrap them in foil instead - seeing as I just stocked up - Thanks to Walgreens and their free foil) and 1 loaf of carrot bread. The muffins are great if you are running late and need to grab something quick, just set them out the night before or pop them in the microwave.

When I make rolls I use the Lion House recipe and try to bake for a variety of occasions. As you can see I made some into hoagies for our french dip sandwiches. This saves me from having to buy random bread (like hot dog buns or hamburger buns that we will never go through) and it's better than just using plain bread. I ended up using these rolls to go with the black bean soup, French Dip Sandwiches, Chicken, and I took some to another family (they also freeze well).

Of course I had to include a picture of my cute little guy helping out! Even with careful supervision he managed to turn the mixer on full blast when I had just added flour and ::poof::

I love these pictures because in the first one he is still waiting for my reaction

and now he knows I'm in a laughing mood!

After that 'explosion' I decided it was best to set him up with play doh. He had a blast. I gave him all the pans that looked just like what I was using and we played and baked together for nearly an hour.

Chicken Enchiladas

1 can cream of chicken soup
1/2 sour cream
1 c salsa
2 c cooked chicken
1/2 c shredded cheese
6 tortillas

Stir soup, sour cream, salsa, and chili powder together.

In another bowl combine: 1 c of soup mixture, chicken and cheese.

Fill tortillas with chicken mixture and roll up placing in baking pan.

Pour the remainder of the soup mixture over the tortillas.

Bake at 350 for 40 minutes.

Riboflavin

2009-01-22T16:29:00.000-07:00

Vitamin B2/Riboflavin
Overview: Vitamin B2 is a water-soluble vitamin that is used in two flavocoenzymes, coenzymes derived from riboflavin. It is important for the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
Role: Riboflavin is converted by the body into one of two biologically active coenzymes: flavin adenine dinucleotide or flavin mononucleotide. These two flavocoenzymes participate in multiple redox reactions, which are essential for aerobic metabolism. Flavocoenzymes are critical for the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and make up part of the electron transport chain, which is central to energy production (2).
RDA:

0.3 mg for infants (0-6 Months)

0.4 mg for infants (7-12 Months)

0.5 mg for children (1-3 Years)

0.6 mg for children (4-8 Years)

0.9 mg for children (9-13 Years)

1.0 mg for girls (14-18)

1.1 mg for women

1.3 mg for men (14 and older)

1.4 mg for pregnant women

1.6 mg for breast-feeding women

New Research: Riboflavin combined with protein, vitamin A, thiamin, and niacin may have some protective effect against nuclear cataract (1).
Tolerable Upper Intake Level: No tolerable upper intake level has been set. As the tissues reach their saturation level, just as with other water-soluble vitamins, the excess is excreted. As riboflavin intake increases, so does the amount excreted in urine.
Deficiency: Riboflavin deficiency is most common in populations that don’t regularly consume dairy and meat products. In more severe cases, cracks and sores may appear around the mouth and nose, other symptoms are sore throat, magenta tongue, and skin rash.
Interactions: Riboflavin deficiency interferes with the metabolism of other nutrients, especially B vitamins. Niacin, folic acid, and vitamins B6 and B12 all require flavocoenzymes to modify their structure to its active form. Moderate riboflavin deficiency also appears to impede iron absorption and to increase the loss of iron from the intestines. Through interactions with vitamin A, riboflavin might influence dark adaptation in some photoreceptors located in the retina.
Natural Sources: Milk and dairy products are the best sources of riboflavin. Fortified cereals, eggs, meats, and fatty fish are good sources of riboflavin. Broccoli, spinach, asparagus, and almonds are also good sources.

Cumming, R.G., P. Mitchell, and W. Smith. 2000. Diet and cataract: the Blue Mountains Eye Study. Ophthalmology. 107:450–456.

Higdon, J., and V. J. Drake. 2007. Riboflavin. http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/vitamins/riboflavin/ Micronutrient Information Center, Linus Pauling Institute. Retrieved January 16, 2009.

Target Deals

2009-01-22T16:21:00.002-07:00

Here is what I found at Target today:

Ocean Spray Juice $1.99, print $1/1 here and use $1/1 from last Sunday's insert = Free
Pillsbury Savory Pastry Bites $1.64, $1/1 mailer = $.64
Suave Lotion (travel size) $.97, insert coupon $1/1 = Free
Colgate Kids Toothpaste $1.99, use Target mailer coupon $1/1 and insert coupon $.75/1 = $.24
Yoplait Yogurt $.52 each, print $1/8 here (same link as above) and use $.40/6 coupon = .35 each
Fleece Zip front Pajamas (2 pk) on clearance $6.98= $3.50 each (they still had a lot of 6 month, 12 month, and 4T, but hit and miss with the rest)

Groceries!

2009-01-21T14:46:00.004-07:00

Albertsons:

Whole Chickens $.69/lb
Kellogg's Cereal or Bars for (multiples of 4) every 4 $1.75 each, $1/1 coupons = $.75 each
Beech-nut 10/$4, $1.50/8 = 10/$2.5
When you spend $20, save $5 on select products: Yoplait Yo Plus Yogurt, Totinos Pizza Rolls, Hamburger Helper, etc.

Harmons:

Tuna $.69 each
Quaker Cereal 5/$5 with in ad coupon

Kents:

Milk $2
GM Cereals $1.50 with in ad coupon, use $1/2 = $1 each
Cake Mixes $.99
Grapefruit 4/$1
Bananas $.39/lb
Sour Cream $1.25
Eggs (doz) $1.50
French Bread $1.00
Lemons 4/$1

Smiths:

Mega Savings event: get $5 off when you purchase 10 participating products: Goldfish Crackers, Quaker Oatmeal, Kleenex, Cheetos, Nature Valley or Fiber One Granola Bars, Cream Cheese, Miracle Whip Nabisco Crackers, Quaker Cereal, Keebler Cookies.
Milk $2
Chicken Breasts, drumsticks, and Thighs $.99/lb
Quaker Cakes $1.00, insert coupon $1/1 = Free
Suave Lotion $1.00, insert coupon $1.00 = Free
Softs soup $1.00, insert coupon $.35 = $.65 each
Green Gian Vegetables $1.50 or $1.00, insert coupon $1/1 = Free - $.50

Winegars:

Blueberries or Blackberries $1.29
GM $1.50 with in ad coupon , insert coupon $1/2 = $1 each
Milk $1.99
Grapefruit 4/$1
Lemons 4/$1

2009-01-20T11:00:00.005-07:00

Here is the beginning of Resolution #2 - Food Storage. I have chosen 7 meals (I know, 3 more to go) and created an Excel Workbook, with the following sheets: Meals, Ingredients, Inventory. In the inventory I have the following columns: ingredients, needed, have, bring out, expires. "Bring Out" means to begin using it for everyday things (hopefully using it by the expiration date). I'm hoping to get this workbook available to you. This last week I purchased spaghetti Sauce, Canned Turkey and Ham, and Chili. It feels great to get started. Also, just FYI, we set up a separate budgeted amount for our food storage. This way, it doesn't overwhelm our regular grocery budget. Here are the meals I have so far: Food Storage Ingredients
	Meal:	Ingredients:
1	Spaghetti
		Noodles
		Spaghetti Sauce
		Black Beans
2	Tuna Helper
		Tuna Helper
		Tuna
		Peas
3	Chicken Helper
		Chicken Helper
		Canned Chicken
		Carrots
4	Chili
		Chili
5	Rice and Beans
		Rice
		Black Beans
		Canned Ham
6	Turkey Dinner
		Canned Turkey
		Cranberry Sauce
		Rice
7	Black Bean Soup
		Cumin
		Chicken Boullion
		Salt
		Pepper
		Ham
		Corn
		Garlic Powder
		Black Beans
		Oil
		Carrots

As for Resolution #1- simplify I have made vast improvements in the basement, but it will still take some time. Resolution #3 - Talents is also underway. I have begun a sewing project and bought several canvases for painting projects. I have yet to start running or the piano, but am happy that I am making some progress.

What has everybody else been working on?

Making up for Lame Walgreens

2009-01-19T15:26:00.002-07:00

Seeing as I didn't see much at Walgreens. I thought I'd make it up to you by sharing this week's menu at our house.

Here you go:

Breakfast:
Banana Blueberry Muffins (I substituted applesauce for eggs and they turned out great)
Cereal and Pears
PB Banana Smoothies (the recipe is about 1/2 way down the page) and Toast
Oatmeal
Yogurt and Toast

Lunch:
Grilled Cheese, carrots, yogurt
Tuna Sandwiches with spinach, yogurt
Mac and Cheese, pears
Peanut Butter Sandwiches, yogurt, carrots
Quesadillas, green beans

Dinner:
Black Bean Soup, rolls
French Dip Sandwiches, carrots
Whole Chicken, cranberry sauce, rolls, green beans
Chicken enchiladas, corn
Chicken Rice Casserole

Snacks:
String Cheese
Carrot Bread
Fruit
Crackers
Yogurt

Watch for my post with my chicken enchilada recipe and the results of my baking day later on this week!

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2009-01-19T15:18:00.003-07:00

Rite Aid:

Softsoap $.99, insert coupon $.35/1= $.64
Hormel Chili $.99, insert coupon $.55/2= $1.43 or $.72 each
Huggies Wipes, Lotion, or Wash $2/$5, $2 Rebate, insert coupons $1/1 (if you bought the wipes here last week check for a $1/1 coupon under the lid) = 2/$1
GE Light Bulbs $2.00, $2 rebate = Free

Walgreens:

Nothing worth hauling 2 boys in

KMart is doubling coupons this week, up to $2

Is Your Resolution to Lose Weight?

2009-01-16T16:02:00.004-07:00

If your resolution is to lose weight this year, you may as well help out those in need by doing it!

You can sign up here to pledge to lose weight. For every pound you lose $.10 will be donated to Feed America.

Also, just a heads up there was a coupon for $1/1 Viva or Meadow Gold Chocolate Milk in last Sunday's ad. The Kent's store near my house has 1 Gallon Viva Choc. Milk on clearance for $.99 (they only had a couple). That's free chocolate milk . . . yummm.

*Yes, it is reduced because it will expire soon, as long as you are going to drink it within the next week or so it will be fine.

Thiamin

2009-01-15T16:43:00.003-07:00

Vitamin B1/Thiamin
Overview: Thiamin is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for neural function and carbohydrate metabolism.
Role: Thiamin is found in the body unbound and in various phosphorylated forms. It is a necessary coenzyme to a few very important enzymes: Pyruvate dehydrogenase, α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase, branched chain ketoacid (BCKA) dehydrogenase, and transketolase. Each of these enzymes plays a critical role in the production of energy from food; transketolase also plays a role in the production of various nucleic acids.

RDA: Most people are able to achieve the below RDA with a balanced diet.

0.2 mg for infants (0-6 Months)
0.3 mg for infants (7-12 Months)
0.5 mg for children (1-3 Years)
0.6 mg for children (4-8 Years)
0.9 mg for children (9-13 Years)
1.1 mg for women
1.4 mg for pregnant or breast-feeding women
1.2 mg IU for men.

New Research: Thiamin combined with protein, vitamin A, niacin, and riboflavin may have some protective effect against nuclear cataract (1).
Tolerable Upper Intake Level: No tolerable upper intake level has been set.
Deficiency: Thiamin deficiency results in beriberi, which is most commonly associated with alcoholism. Clinical signs of beriberi include anorexia and weight loss, confusion, dementia, depression, aggression, sleep apnea, irritability, apathy, muscle weakness, and cardiovascular effects (2). Sudden infant death syndrome and some mental disorders have also been associated with thiamin deficiencies. Thiamin and thiamin-dependant enzymes are found in every cell of the body, but the nervous system and the heart are particularly sensitive to the deficiency. Vitamin B1 is different from the other three vitamins associated with vitamin deficiency (Vitamin B3, C, and D) in that it requires special transporting proteins to be absorbed from food and to be transported in the bloodstream.
Deficiency can be brought about by alcoholism, increased need, inadequate intake, excessive loss through increased urination, or consumption of foods high in anti-thiamin factor (e.g. coffee, tea, betel nuts, raw freshwater fish, raw shellfish, and ferns).
Interactions: Foods high in anti-thiamin factors cause thiamin to become inactive and increase the amount of thiamin necessary for a healthy diet. Because it is an important factor in glucose metabolism, ingestion of simple carbohydrates increases the body's need for thiamin. Magnesium and calcium deficiencies are believed to aggravate thiamin deficiencies, magnesium deficiency can also lead to thiamin deficiency (2).
Natural Sources: Whole grain cereals, lean pork, legumes (beans and lentils), and nuts are excellent sources of thiamin. Spinach, cantaloupe, and oranges are all fair sources of vitamin B1.

Cumming, R.G., P. Mitchell, and W. Smith. 2000. Diet and cataract: the Blue Mountains Eye Study. Ophthalmology. 107:450-456.
Lonsdale, D. 2006. A review of the biochemistry, metabolism and clinical benefits of thiamin(e) and its derivatives. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 3: 49-59.

Thanks Steve!

Groceries!

2009-01-14T14:08:00.002-07:00

Albertsons:

Ground Beef $1.49/lb with in ad coupon
Quaker Sale: Morning minis, instant oatmeal, breakfast cookies, granola bars, Oats, Life Cereal and Cap'n Crunch are all $1.50 each for every 4 (mix and match) purchased. There were some great coupons in the inserts just over a week ago or you can try here.

Harmons:

Quaker Cereal 5/$5 with in ad coupon, use insert coupons $.50/1, $1/2 = $.50 each
WF Tuna $.69
WF Vegetables $.50

Kents:

Baby Carrots (2lb) $1.78
WF Apple Juice $.91
WF Chili $.91
WF Spaghetti Sauce $.91
Hormel Canned Ham or Turkey (5 oz) $.91
WF Ketchup $.91
Jello Gelatin or Pudding $.91
Milk $2.50
Yoplait Yogurt cups $.50, $.40/6 = $.43 each
WF Olives $.79 with in ad coupon
Lynn Wiilson Tortillas $.99 with in ad coupon
Bakers Flour $7.99
Stauffers Whale Crackers $.99

Maceys:

WF Corn or Green Beans $.49
WF Apple Juice $.91
WF Chili $.91
WF Spaghetti Sauce $.91
Hormel Canned Ham or Turkey (5 oz) $.91
WF Ketchup $.91
Jello Gelatin or Pudding $.91
Marshmallows $.69
WF Seasonings $.88
WF Tuna $.69
WF Applesauce $.59
Garden Club PB $1.49
Milk $2
Yoplait Yogurt cups $.50, $.40/6 = $.43 each

Smiths:

Kroger Cottage Cheese $1.00
Kroger Cream Cheese $1.00
Hamburger Helper $1.00
Milk $2
Kroger Orange Juice $1.00
Kroger Cheese (32 oz) $4.99
Huggies Jumbo $8.99, Load $3.00/2 or $1.50/1 at cellfire.com*, and use $1.50/1 from Sunday's paper = $6
Suave Lotion $1.00, insert coupon $1/1 = Free

Winegars:

Baby Carrots (2lb) $1.66
WF Apple Juice $.91
WF Chili $.91
WF Spaghetti Sauce $.91
WF Ketchup $.91
There are several other good deals but both Maceys and Kents have better deals.

*Cellfire.com allows you to load coupons onto your Fresh Values card (or other store card). This is a store coupon and can be used with a manufacturer's coupon.

Resolution #3

2009-01-13T10:33:00.003-07:00

Resolution #1- Simplify
Resolution #2- Food Storage

Resolution #3- Talents

My third and final resolution (that I will be sharing) is about talents. Since becoming a mother I found my talent-base much changed. I can and am doing things now that I never thought possible before (like cleaning up throw up). While I enjoy spending my time as a homemaker I do feel I am letting some of the things I enjoy go to the wayside. I think the biggest problem with with this neglect is they would make me a better mother, which is my main goal anyway. There are some things, like soccer, that I have continued to play regularly. The things that I would like to work on this year are: piano, singing (don't worry, with a choir), drawing, painting, sewing, and running.

I'm a little frustrated with myself about the piano. I took lessons for several years then quit. When I got into high school and especially through college I found much peace in playing and had gotten to a place that I was very happy with (although I could still have used a lot of work). Since being married (and without a piano) I haven't done anything with it. I do have a full size keyboard and I decided it is better to practice on this than nothing at all. So I have made some goals on learning some different hymns, etc.

In high school I learned to really enjoy singing. Initially I took choir because that is where all of my friends were, but I truly enjoyed it. My goal is to join the ward choir and sing with them in at least one meeting (which will be a lot of fun for Steve).

I picked up sketching and painting in college and am ashamed to say I have only done 2 projects in 4 years. Thus, I will be working toward accomplishing at least 2 different works which are yet to be determined.

For Christmas I got a sewing machine and I am ecstatic! I have never been very good at sewing, but I want to be able to help my children when they are in need of costumes, clothing repair, etc. I know either of their Grandmas would be more than happy to help, but I would feel I am missing out so I am going to work on completing 4 different items from patterns (by the way all Simplicity patters are $.99 at Jo Anns this week- limit 10).

Last but not least: running. Whenever I was overwhelmed I would run. It felt so good and if the frustrations were too much I just ran faster until I was concentrating so much on the physical exertion that I was able to clear my mind (I have noticed that is how yoga works for me too . . I have to concentrate so hard on the ridiculous poses that my mind is clear by the end of the workout). My goal is to run at least 1 race this year. I'm not setting a distance or time goal. I'm simply wanting to finish.

Does anybody else feel like you have let some things go?

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2009-01-12T20:25:00.003-07:00

Rite Aid:

Diaper Deal: Buy 2 Huggies Jumbo at $9.99
Buy 2 Huggies Wipes at $3.49
Use 2 $1.50/1 (from Sunday's Paper), and 2 $.50/1 (Sunday's paper)
print this for $5/$25 purchase
Get 2 $2 Rebates and 1 $10 Rebate (1 for diapers and 1 for buying 2 pkgs wipes)
= pay $18 and get $14 back in rebates = $4 for 2 packages of diapers and 2 wipes

Walgreens:

Windex B1G1 ($3.79 for 2): Buy 1 Windex Spray and 1 Windex wipes, Use coupon $.55/1 and send for Windex Rebate (form in Sundays paper) = $.55 profit
Oust B1G1 ($3.79 for 2), use B1G1 coupon = Free

Resolution #2

2009-01-09T13:48:00.003-07:00

Resolutions:
#1- Simplify

#2 - Food Storage

I am sure many of you are pros at this. I however, have not fully committed myself to the subject. Not that I haven't tried to buy extra of what we already use and need, but I honestly have no idea how long what I have will last us (unless we would like to survive on mac and cheese). As I'm sure others of you have felt when you know you are lacking in an area it seems that is all others are talking about and giving counsel on. Thus, I am bent on improving in this area. The goal that I have set is to have 2 72 hour kits (1 for each car :::looks at feet::: no, I don't have 72 hour kits ready) and a 3 month supply of food by the end of the year. There are so many great resources that I wasn't sure where to get started.

I am using this as my guideline for my 72 hour kits. For the "Personal Documents" - I have an emergency book that lists all of the necessary info (insurance policy numbers, agents . . etc.) that I will hopefully have available to you as I get to that point. If you have any suggestions on these I would love to hear them!

Now for the second part: the 3 months of food storage. This seems fairly daunting to me. I am really hoping it won't be as difficult as I think.
Here is my action plan:

Come up with 9 different meals that are easy to store and my family will eat
List all ingredients and watch for sales
Stock up and keep inventory

My final goal: 9 meals 10 times = 90 days

OK, so that takes care of dinner.

I will be doing essentially the same thing with breakfast and lunch, with a little less variety (seeing as I don't usually vary our lunch or breakfast quite that much).

The third and final part to this resolution is to learn a new method of food preservation. Last year I focused mainly on dehydrated foods (because we have a dehydrator and it is a very easy method). I haven't committed to my next method, but I will let you know as I research it further.

Anyway, now that I am feeling completely overwhelmed, I'm off to tackle goal #1.

Vitamin A

2009-01-09T13:39:00.002-07:00

My sweet husband (who obviously finds my blog lacking serious info) has been researching vitamins for work and offered to share the information. For me, knowing more about each vitamin helps me to make sure I'm giving my kids more of a balanced diet. Feel free to leave questions and/or comments for him to answer. Enjoy!

Vitamin A/Beta-Carotene
Overview: Important for normal vision, integrity of the epithelial cells (the skin and the cells lining the inner surfaces of the body), gene expression, reproduction, embryonic development, growth, and immune function. Beta-Carotene is a precursor to Vitamin A.
Role: Vitamin A is a generic term for a variety of compounds, including retinal, retinol, retinoic acid, and other retinoids. Beta-Carotene and other carotenoids that can be converted into retinol are called provitamin A carotenoids.
The retinol can be stored and converted into 11-cis-retinal, which binds to the protein opsin to create rhodopsin. Rhodopsin is a visual pigment used by rod cells to detect light; improving night vision
The body converts retinal into retinoic acid, which acts as a hormone and influences multiple physiological reactions. Through the stimulation and inhibition of transcription of specific genes, retinoic acid plays a major role in cellular differentiation, the specialization of cells for highly specific physiological roles. Many of the physiological effects attributed to vitamin A appear to result from its role in cellular differentiation (1).
Retinol and its metabolites aid in the function and integrity of skin and mucosal cells (2). Vitamin A and retinoic acid are also important for the development and differentiation of white blood cells, and activation of T-lymphocytes (4).
During fetal development, retinoic acid functions in limb development and formation of the heart, eyes, and ears. Additionally, RA has been found to regulate expression of the gene for growth hormone (1). Vitamin A also appears to be an important part of red blood cell differentiation and the incorporation of iron into hemoglobin.
RDA: For retinol the RDA is:

1,333 IU for infants (0-6 Months)
1,667 IU for infants (7-12 Months)
1,000 IU for children (1-3 Years)
1,333 IU for children (4-8 Years)
2,000 IU for children (9-13 Years)
2,333 IU for women
4,333 IU for breast-feeding women
3,000 IU for men.

New Research: In order to combat vitamin A deficiency in developing countries, scientists have developed golden rice. Golden rice has been genetically modified to contain Beta-Carotene. While the current golden rice doesn’t provide a significant amount of vitamin A, there are ongoing efforts to increase the amount (3).
Tolerable Upper Intake Level: The tolerable upper limit for adults is established at 10,000 IU (3000 m g) of retinol. There is no upper limit established for provitamin A carotenoids. Children aged 4 and younger shouldn’t consume more that 1,800 IU, while children 4-8 should have no more than 2,700 IU, 9-13 shouldn’t consume more than 5,100 IU, and 14-18 year olds shouldn’t have more than 8,400 IU.
Deficiency: The leading cause of blindness in children is caused by vitamin A deficiency; this is especially prevalent in developing regions of the world. The earliest sign of vitamin A deficiency is night blindness or impaired dark adaptation. Mild vitamin A deficiency may result in changes in the conjunctiva (corner of the eye) called Bitot's spots. Severe or prolonged vitamin A deficiency causes a condition called xeropthalmia (dry eye), characterized by changes in the cells of the cornea (clear covering of the eye) that ultimately result in corneal ulcers, scarring, and blindness (1).
Children who are mildly deficient in vitamin A have an increased risk of respiratory infections, and diarrhea. Deficient children also have a higher rate of mortality from infectious diseases than children who are consuming the recommended amount of vitamin A. This may be due to the body’s inability to repair damaged mucosal cells when deficient in vitamin A (5).
Interactions: Zinc deficiency appears to decrease the ability to metabolize vitamin A, as several enzymes are reduced in concentration when zinc is not available, such as retinol-binding protein.
Vitamin A deficiency may exacerbate Iron deficiency anemia. The use of Iron in combination with Vitamin A is more effective than either one alone, in treating anemia.
Fat, protein, vitamin E, and Zinc all help the body to utilize vitamin A more effectively.
Natural Sources: Butter, fatty fish liver oil, eggs, and liver are excellent sources of retinol. Provitamin A compounds are found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, including: pumpkin, sweet potatoes, butternut squash, carrots, cantaloupe, spinach, mango, broccoli, and tomato juice.

Higdon, J., and V. J. Drake. 2007. Vitamin A. http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/vitamins/vitaminA/ Micronutrient Information Center, Linus Pauling Institute. Retrieved December 29, 2008.
McCullough,F., Northrop-Clewes, C.A., and Thurnham, D.I. 1999. The effect of vitamin A on epithelial integrity. Proc. Nutr. Soc. 58:289-293.
Paine, J. A., C. A. Shipton, S. Chaggar, R. M. Howells, M. J. Kennedy, G. Vemon, S. Y. Wright, E. Hinchliffe, J. L. Adams, A. L. Silverstone, and R. Drake. 2005. Improving the nutritional value of Golden Rice through increased pro-vitamin A content. Nat. Biotech. 23:482-487.
Semba RD. 1998. The role of vitamin A and related retinoids in immune function. Nutr Rev. 56:S38-48.
Tomkins, A., R. Behrens, and S. Roy. 1993. The role of Zinc and vitamin A deficiency in diarrhoeal syndromes in developing countries. Proc. Nutr. Soc. 52:131-142.

Groceries!

2009-01-07T20:50:00.002-07:00

Albertsons:
*Use the in ad coupon to double your coupons up to $1.00

Potatoes 5 lb $1.25, with in ad coupon
Chicken breasts or tenders $1.88/lb
Albertsons Butter $1.49 with in ad coupon
Albertsons Cheese (32oz) $4.99 with in ad coupon
Select Malt O Meal Cereal $1.27 with in ad coupon
And don't forget all of the great deals on the front page of the ad, the $15 off $30 items and diaper deal

Harmons:

WF Tuna $.69
WF TP 36 Roll $6.99
WF Paper Towels 15 Roll $6.99
Tomato Sauce 5/$1
WF Vegetables 2/$1
Campbell's Cream Soups $.69, insert coupon .25/4 = $.63
Quaker Life or Cap N' Crunch Cereal 5/$5, with in ad coupon, insert coupon $1/2 (life) or $.50/1 Cap N' Crunch = $.50 each
WF Chili $.79
WF Beef Stew $1.67
Meadow Gold Yogurts 10/$4
Ketchup $1.25
WF Pineapple $1.00
WF Applesauce $.59
Grapefruit 5/$1
Vitamin water 10/$5 with in ad coupon

Kents:

Potatoes (10 lb) $1.99
Cottage Cheese $.99
WF Peanut Butter $1.88
Baker's Flour (25 lb) $7.99

Maceys:

Ground Beef $1.39/lb (probably in 5lb package)
Farm Bread $1.88
WF Peanut Butter $1.88
WF Cream Soups $.59
WF Mustard $.88
WF Jello or Pudding $.69
Chicken $1.69/lb
Lynn Wilson Tortillas $.79
Milk $2
WF Margarine $.79
Eggs 1 doz $1.50
Mountain High Yogurt (32 oz) $2.39, insert coupon $.50/1= $1.89
Cottage Cheese $.99

Smiths:

Ground Beef $1.99/lb
Tyson Chicken 50% off
Milk $2.19
Kroger Yogurt 3/$1
Eggs (doz) $1.29
Salmon Fillets $3.99/lb

Winegars:

Chicken Breasts $1.49/lb
WF Yogurt $.30
WF Cottage Cheese $1.00

Happy Shopping!

Great Diaper Deal!!!

2009-01-07T09:16:00.003-07:00

Check this deal out at Albertsons:

Buy 3 Pampers Jumbo Diapers @ 10.69 each (with your preferred savings card) = $32.07
Use 3 $1.00/1 pampers coupons = -$3.00
Use in ad coupon to double coupons (up to $1.00 each) = -$3.00
Total: $26.07

Get: $15 off coupon good on your next purchase and $5 off coupon on your next baby purchase
= $6.07

The greatest part? If you do the same transaction again you only spend $6.07 out of pocket and get $20 in coupons again.

There are a lot of products that this deal will work on, however, you only get the extra $5 on the diapers (as far as I have heard). $15 off of $30 (pre-coupon total) is still a great deal! The lady in front of me had 7 transactions and only spent around $70 (she ended up with 2 1/2 carts full . . and I mean full). I will be looking into some other scenarios, if you come up with some please let me know!

**It was a madhouse there this morning and I got the last of the size 2 and 3 diapers at the Clinton store. You may want to check on when your store will be restocked (many of the trucks have been delayed due to the weather). Good luck!

A New Year, much to Resolve

2009-01-06T18:23:00.002-07:00

As the new year is here (okay, so I'm 6 days late) there is so much talk of change. While I dislike that I always have good intentions and make resolutions and forget them within a month (like so many others) I do like the idea of setting new goals. It is like the starting of each school year when you really commit yourself to reading all of the text assigned and unassigned then find yourself with the final coming fast and decide that you can just read your notes. So, I will be reporting on some of my resolutions. Hopefully because I'll be a little more accountable (to all 3 of my readers) I'll accomplish a little more this year.

Here is goal #1:

Simplify, simplify, simplify. Over the past 4 years of marriage we have managed to accumulate a lot of junk (if you don't believe me look in our basement . . . . errr . . . if you can open the door . . . oh, and don't fall down the . . . . stairs). I have decided to go through all of our closets, drawers, etc. and get rid of everything that is taking up space. Even though much of this is organized I feel that there is such a focus on accumulation of goods. It is overwhelming. I am sure it is just amplified by the fact that our children doubled their amount of worldly goods over Christmas. Anyway, I'm going through everything . . . yeah . . . everything (ok, excluding Steve's closet, memorbilia, cameras and accessories, and toys - yes, he has a LOT of toys). Then in the spring I will be holding a garage sale to see if somebody else can enjoy it, if not it will be off to the lovely new DI building. Maybe this doesn't seem too big to some of you, but I feel like by getting rid of a lot of the things that are unneccessary in our household I'll be lightening a burden. I hope you aren't thinking "wow, she never goes through her stuff," because that would be crazy! I go through my and the boys' closets at least once ever other month, and regularly clean out other drawers and closets. Yet, I think with having my new "no excess" thinking I will be able to simplify a lot more.

This article is what really got me thinking about the things I have and how wasteful it is to have so many things that I don't need/use (just because one day I will decide I like corn on the cob and we will need those hand grips). Anyway, it is just something to think about. I'll try to keep updating my progress. So far, I've done the upstairs and 1/2 of the kitchen and it hasn't been too painful . . . although I must confess I did keep the unopened package of corn on the cob holders.

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2009-01-06T10:03:00.003-07:00

Rite Aid:

Garnier Fructis Shampoo, conditioner, and styling products $3.00, $2.00 rebate, it says in the ad to use the $1.00 coupon in Sunday's paper; my coupon is for facial cleanser and moisturizer, I doubt they will take it, anybody try it yet? = Free if you can use the coupon
SoyJoy Bars 10/$5, $5 rebate, use insert coupons $3/10 and B2G1 Free = profit (varies depending on if they will take both coupons)
A lot of their make up is on sale B1G1 Free, there were a lot of coupons this week to save $2/1, remember to use 2 coupons and $4 off plus a free product.
Select Rite Aid Brand Products B1G1 50 % off (I have tried their diapers and wipes and thought both worked well)

Walgreens:

Garnier Fructis Shampoo, conditioner, and styling products $2.99, $2 coupon in Easysaver*, $1 coupon if you have it for these products (they would not take the coupon from this sunday's paper)
Kellogg's Cereal 4/$10, $3 in Register Rewards**, Use coupons $1/1 = 4/$3
Loreal Makeup B1G1, use 2 $2/1 coupons (the sale does not include HIP products, use other coupons)
Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream 2/$6, use this coupon (you should be able to print 2) $3/1 = Free ice cream (hooray!!) Sorry, no longer available.
Palmolive $1.79, in ad coupon $1/1, insert coupon $.25/1 = $.54
Reynolds Foil $.99 with in ad coupon, use insert coupon $1/1 = Free
Quaker Oatmeal $1.99 with in ad coupon, use this $1/1 coupon (or insert coupon) = $.99 (when I bought 2 I recieved a coupon for $2/3, so I am going to try to head back and get 3 boxes for $1.00- you may want to try to split your transaction if you are going to buy a lot)
Electrasol $3.49, insert coupon $2.50/1, $1.50 rebate = Profit
Hershey's candy bars 2/$1 with in ad coupon, use insert coupon b1g1 = $.11 for 2

As you can tell, I bought a lot more at Walgreens this week. Good luck to you!

*Easysaver: in store coupon book. Check out the rack near the entrance
**Register Rewards: Like a gift card that prints with your receipt. It is good on future purchases and expires in 2 weeks.

Jo Ann's

2008-12-31T13:29:00.002-07:00

There is a great sale going on at Jo Ann's. Get 50% off red tagged merchandise, up to 75% off Christmas merchandise, and use the 10% off coupon for you entire purchase. Look here for more details. (Today through Saturday)

Groceries!

2008-12-31T13:01:00.002-07:00

Albertsons:

Milk $1.99
Select Kellogg's Cereal $1.59, use insert coupon $1.00/1 or use this = $.59
Jello Pudding $.99
Whole Frying Chicken $.88/lb
Juicy Juice $2, use$1/1 (for Juicy Juice Harvest . . . I hope that kind is part of the sale), or this = $1

Harmons:

Baby Carrots (2lb) $1.98
Milk $1.99
Coke Products (2liter) $.79
Daisy Sour Cream $1.00, use coupon $.50/1 = $.50
Doritos $2
Eggs (doz) $1.25
WF Cream Cheese $1.00

Kents:

Grapefruit 2/$1
Apples $.69/lb
Grapes $.99/lb
WF Frozen Vegetables $.69
Sara Lee Bread $1.50
Bakers Flour (25 lbs) $7.99
WF Instant Oatmeal $1.67
Milk $2
Old Orchard Frz Juice Conc. $1.10
Chocolate Milk (1/2 gallon) $1.67
Farmland Sausage $1.67, insert coupon $.55/1 = $1.12
WF Frozen Burritos 3/$1

Maceys:

Grapefruit 5/$1
Kraft Mac and Cheese (4pk) $3.00
Picante Salsa (16oz) $1.79
Cross Rib Roast $1.79/lb
Farmland Sausage $1.67, insert coupon $.55/1 = $1.12
WF Instant Oatmeal $1.50
Old Orchard Froz Juice Conc $1.00
WF Froz Vegetables $.77

Smiths:

Milk $2
Yoplait Yogurt $.50, coupon $.40/6 = $.44

Have a Great New Year!

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2008-12-29T14:12:00.002-07:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas! Sorry for such sparse posting, but we were busy enjoying having Daddy home for almost the whole week.

Rite Aid:

CoverGirl Cosmetics B1G1, Use 2 $1/1 coupons (I haven't been there yet, but this should make it a pretty good deal)
Crest Toothpaste $2.49, $1.00 rebate, $1.00 coupon = $.49
Orajel Mouth Rinse $5.99, $5.99 rebate = Free
Dawn Dish Soap $.99, $.50/1 insert coupon = $.49

Walgreens:

Revlon Face or Eye Makeup B1G1, Use 2 $2/1 coupons (I bought mascara, because that is what I needed $6.99 ea = $2.99 for 2)
Wrigley's Gum 3/$1.98, Easysaver* coupon $3/.99
Jergens Soap $1.99 (8pk) with in ad coupon
Blistex $.99 with in ad coupon, insert coupon $.25/1 = $.74
Revlon Matte Lipstick, eyeliner, eye shadow, or blush Free after Rebate, use insert coupon $2/1 = $2 profit (Matte line is not good on B1G1 sale, and only 1 Revlon Rebate per household)
Dawn Dish Soap $.99 with in ad coupon, insert coupon $.50/1= $.49

*Easysaver - magazine at the front of the store with coupons and rebate information

Free Music and Pictures

2008-12-19T15:57:00.002-07:00

Music:

For Christmas Oprah has made a Christmas Album that you can download here free (for the next 48 hours). It looks much better than the music I mentioned here.

Pictures:

Order a free 8 X 10 at Walgreens by using the code: FREEGIFT and picking your pictures up in store. If you have a Happenings book there is a B1G1 Free 8 x 10 coupon. I ordered 2 and selected "pay in store" in hopes of using this coupon to get 2 free 8 x 10 pictures. I'll let you know if this works.

Groceries!

2008-12-18T11:00:00.002-07:00

Albertsons:

Kelloggs Cereal $1.67, insert coupon $1/1 = $.67 (when you buy 3 of the participating cereals)
Albertsons Bone in Split Chicken Breast $.99/lb
Albertsons Butter $1.79
Campbells Cream of Mushroom soup $.50, insert coupon $.25/4 = $.44 each
Swanson Chicken Broth $.50, insert coupon $.25/4 = $.44 each
Campbell's Gravy $.50, insert coupon $.40/4 = $.40 each
Arm and Hammer Laundry Detergent B1G1 plus get one Arm $ Hammer Essentials Cleaning Kit Free, insert coupon $.50/1, or use these for $1/1 detergent and $1/1 Cleaning kit (even though you are getting it free you can use the coupon, this has a potential of $3 off with printed coupons) - there is a limit, so if you used them last week you may not be able to this week
Nestle Toll House Morsels $1.69, insert coupon $.50/1 or $1.00/2 = $1.19 each

Harmons:

Shasta 2 liter $.89
Stove Top Stuffing $1.00

Kents:

Clementines (5lbs) $4.99
Swanson Broth $.50, insert coupon $.25/4 = $.44
WF Cool Whip $.88
Coke Products 2 liter $.79
Spiral Sliced ham $1.39/lb
Grandma Sycamore Bread $1.67
Home Pride Bread $2
WF Macaroni and Cheese 5/$1.00
Marshmallows $.99
Milk $2
Cream O' Weber Sour Cream $.99
Eggs $.99 (1 dozen)
WF Margarine $.75
WF Frozen Taters $1.89
WF Cream Cheese $.99
WF Cheese (32 oz) $4.99
Fresh Yams $.99/lb
Bell Peppers 2/$1
Avocados $.89
Cucumbers 2/$1
Oranges $.49/lb

Maceys:

Spiral Sliced Ham $1.49/lb
Jello $.88
WF Cool Whip $.88
Marshmallows $.88
Swanson Broth $.50, insert coupon $.25/4 = $.44 each
Libby's Pumpkin $1.88
Barilla Pastsa $1.20
Hot Dogs $.89
WF Cream Cheese $.99
WF Cheese (32 oz) $4.99
Wax Paper or Aluminum foil $.99
Shasta 2 liter $.69
Milk $2
WF Sour Cream $.99
Old Orchard Froz Conc $1.25

Smiths:

Kroger Cheese (6-8 oz) $1.67
Coke Products 2 liter $.79
Milk $2
Cool Whip $.99
Potatoes (5 lb) $.99
Philadelphia Cream Cheese $1.00
Nabisco Crackers $1.67
Oranges $.50/lb
Spiral Sliced Ham $1.39/lb
Home Pride Bread $2
Yams $.99/lb

Winegars:
So, I hope all of you got the wonderful ad from Winegars. If not here are some great sayings to brighten your day: "Let the Winegator take a BITE out of high prices to help you save money," "We Wish You Merry Meats & Cheese," "Fresh Dairy we've heard on high," "Fa La La La La La Frozen Foods," "Deck the Halls with Health & Beauty." I don't know about you, but I really don't want to HEAR my dairy items, have my meats being merry, or have lipstick on the walls. :)

Spiral Sliced Ham $1.49/lb
Nabisco Creackers $1.67, with in ad coupon
5 lb Clementines $4.98
WF Sour Cream $.99
WF Milk $2
WF Cool Whip $.88
Swanson Broth $.50, insert coupon $.25/4 = $.44 each
WF Cream CHeese $.99
WF CHeese (32 oz) $4.99
WF Cranberry Sauces $.99

Happy Holiday Shopping!

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2008-12-17T07:25:00.002-07:00

Sorry it's so late. Better late than never I guess.

Rite Aid:
I really don't see anything here, let me know if you do

Assorted DVD's $3.99, $3.99 rebate = Free

Walgreens:

Progresso Soup $.99 with in ad coupon, this coupon $1.10/1, or insert coupon $.50/2 = $.11 profit (I can't seem to get this to work, but it may just be my printer)
Kids' Oral B Toothpaste or Brush 2/$4, $2 Register Rewards*, insert coupon $1/2 = 2/$1
Colgate $.99, insert coupon $.75/1 = $.24
DeMet Chocolate Turtles $.99, insert coupon $1.50/1 = $.51 profit

*Register Rewards - Like a gift card that is given with your receipt. Good on any purchase in the next 2 weeks.

A Fun Free Christmas Activity

2008-12-12T09:18:00.002-07:00

If you are into venturing out in the cold and braving a few crowds, this may be for you:

The Christmas Village is going on in Ogden (343 25th street). Tomorrow (Sat, 13th), there will be a karaoke contest at 11:00 am, and a concert by Josh Evertsen at 7:00 pm. Santa will be there (not sure of the hours he'll be working). During the concert enjoy free hot chocolate and stuffed animals for the kiddos. Bundle up!

Groceries!

2008-12-10T13:51:00.002-07:00

Albertsons:

Chex Cereal 3/$7, use insert coupon $1/2, plus get 4 2 liters of coke products free
Beach nut Baby Food $.45, insert coupon $1.50/8 = $.28
Kelloggs Cereal: 2/$6, insert coupons $1/1, buy 6 boxes get $6 off your order = $1.00 each
General Mills Promotion spend $10 get $4 off your order. Plenty of great coupons to match up, check out pinching your pennies list here for some great prices.

Harmons:

Oranges $.69/lb
Chex Cereal 3/$5 with in ad coupon, use insert coupon $1/2 = $1.33
Daisy Sour Cream $1.00, insert coupon $.50/1 = $.50

Kents:

Chex Cereal 3/$5 with in ad coupon, insert coupon $1/2 = $1.33
Shasta 3 Liter $.98
Duncan Hines Cake Mixes $.79
Spiral Sliced Ham $1.39/lb
Sara Lee Bread $2
Home Pride Bread $2
WF Mac and Cheese 4/$1
Sour Cream $.99 (16 oz)
Large Eggs (18 pk) $2.19
Early Bird Sale Sat. 13th 6-12:

Cottage Cheese $.99 (16 oz)
Bananas $.44/lb
WF Cheese $4.99 (2 lb)
Tortilla Chips $.88
Eggs $.88 (dozen)
Ground Beef $1.99/lb (10 lb pkg)
Maceys:
The last few weeks Maceys has sent their ad out, however I didn't get one this week. I went back to looking at their online ad and apparently they are undecided on the prices because about 1/2 of the products don't have prices by them. Because of this I will refer you to the pinching your pennies grocery list. My main caution with this is that they combine all of the Associated Food store's deals and they aren't all necessarily found at Maceys (even if you click on the Maceys list). Sorry about this. Here is all I found (that had prices):

Chex Cereal 3/$5, insert coupon $1/2 = $1.33
Shasta $.98 (3 liter)
WF Yogurt $1.67 (32 oz)
Milk $2

Smiths:
I went to Smiths a few weeks ago and I was quite impressed with their manager mark downs on cheese and meat. You may want to check it out if you are in need of these items.

Milk $2
Eggs $1.25 (dozen)
General Mills Deal: Cereal 4/$12, Fruit Snacks 4/$10, buy any combination of 4 and get $4 off at checkout, stack that with insert and in store coupons to make some great buys
Hormel sausage $1.00
Country Oven Bread $1.50
Home Pride Bread $2
Kroger Pretzels $1.00
McCormick Grinders $1.00, insert coupon $.25/1 = $.75
Fleischmann's Yeast Strips $1.00, use insert coupn $.45/1 = $.55
Kroger OJ 1/2 Gallon $1.00
Sure Deoderant $1.00, insert coupon $.75 = $.25

Winegars:

Spiral Ham $1.49/lb
Ground Beef $1.89/lb (family pack, probably 5 lbs)
Eggs $2 (18 pk)
Chex Cereal $3/5, insert coupon $1/2 = $1.33
Shasta $.98 (3 liter)
Home Pride Bread $2
Sara Lee Bread $2
Grapefruit 3/$1

Double Dealings at Walgreens

2008-12-10T13:27:00.002-07:00

The past 2 weeks Walgreens has had an extra insert in the newspaper with a special 4 day sale. Here are this weeks deals (in addition to their week long deals):

**Spend $25 get $5 in Register Rewards* (this is a pre-coupon total)
Hydrogen Peroxide $.39 with in ad coupon
Arm and Hammer Laundry Detergent $1.99 with in ad coupon, use this coupon for $1/1, or an insert coupon $.50/1 = $.99-$.1.50

Here is my plan:

Item	Register Price	Walgreens Coupon	Other Coupon	Actual Price
Reynolds Wrap	$1.59	$0.59	$1.00	$0.00
Reynolds Wrap	$1.59	$0.59	$1.00	$0.00
Hershey's Candy	$2.50	Rebate $5/4	$1.50/3	$0.63
Hershey's Candy	$2.50	Rebate $5/4	$1.50/3	$0.63
Hershey's Candy	$2.50	Rebate $5/4	$1.50/3	$0.63
Hershey's Candy	$2.50	Rebate $5/4	$1.50/3	$0.63
Arm and Hammer	$3.50	$1.50	$1.00	$1.00
Arm and Hammer	$3.50	$1.50	$1.00	$1.00
Arm and Hammer	$3.50	$1.50	$1.00	$1.00
Arm and Hammer	$3.50	$1.50	$1.00	$1.00
Arm and Hammer	$3.50	$1.50	$1.00	$1.00

Totals	$27.18	$7.18 and $5 Rebate	$8.50	$6.52

So: Pay $11.52 and get $5 in register rewards* (for spending over $25) and a $5 rebate. Essentially getting all of this for: $1.52. Totally worth it! Let me know how you did!

*Register Rewards: Gift card issued with your receipt good on your next purchase, expires in 2 weeks

JCPenny I love you!

2008-12-09T13:40:00.001-07:00

So I received another $10 off any $10 purchase at JCPenny. I'm not mentioning it to gloat, I just thought I'd see if any of you that asked about it last time signed up for their mailing list and are now receiving these??

Target Deals

2008-12-09T13:31:00.002-07:00

I just got back from (Layton) Target and thought I would share some deals with you:

Keebler cookies and crackers are buy 5 get a $5 gift card.

The prices on the cookies and crackers are from $1.97-$2.66, use these $1/1 (it prints 2 each time, limit 2x = 4 coupons per printer) = $.97-$1.66 each. So . . . . I bought 5 boxes, used 4 coupons (I reached my printing limit), my total was: $7.47 and I received a $5 gift card.

Here is another deal I was hoping to capitalize on, but they were out of stock (I love rain checks):

Air Wick Luminar: $4.99, insert coupon $5/1, Target coupon (from Clip N' Save mailer) $1/1 = $1.00 profit (note: I'm not sure if they will let you get the $1 profit, but let me know if you try it before I do)

Also:

I know there were people that went to Wal Mart on Black Friday for their $4 pajamas. Target has their 2 pack 1 piece fleece pajamas on sale for $8, so essentially $4 each for those of you that missed the Wal Mart sale.

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2008-12-08T14:23:00.002-07:00

Rite Aid:

Electrasol Dishwasher Detergent: $3.99, $1 Rebate, Insert coupon $.35-$.75 = $2.24-$2.64 (remember when this was nearly free after rebate and coupon?)
Maybelline Lip $6.00, $2 rebate, $4 insert coupon = Free (I didn't get this infamous $4 off coupon . . . did I just miss it?)

Walgreens:

Hershey's Candy (again) 4/$10, $5 rebate, Insert coupon $1.50/3, $1/1 = $2.50 for 4 bags
Scotch Tape $2, Rebate $2= Free
Reynolds Wrap $.99 with in ad coupon, insert coupon $1/1 = Free
Cottonelle Fresh Wipes $1.99 with in ad coupon, Insert coupon $1/1 = $.99
Kellogg's Cereal $1.99, insert coupon $1/1 = $.99 each
Angel Soft TP $2.99 (12 pk), insert coupon $.50/1 = $2.49

Free Food!

2008-12-05T14:55:00.002-07:00

I heard about this early in the week, but was hesitant to post it until I had tried it. Steve and I had a great lunch including 2 sandwiches, potato chips, a side of potato salad, a shake, and a root bear float. Total cost: $0.00

Here's how:

If you go to the Einstein Bagels website and sign up to be on their e-mail list, plus refer a friend (whoever you would like to go to lunch with) then have your referred friend sign up, you will each get a coupon for a free sandwich. I thought that it would be a really small sandwich, but we were able to pick anything on the menu and get a side: potato chips, potato salad, or coleslaw.

You can sign up to join "Arby's Extras" (upper right hand corner) at Arby's website and get a coupon e-mailed to you for a free Mint Chocolate shake. I am not a big fan of mint, but I really thought it was good.

If you've visited Wendy's lately, check the back of your receipt for the opportunity to do a survey. After about 3 minutes of doing the survey you will get a validation code to get a Frosty Float. (I've noticed a lot of stores are doing this for freebies or a % off your next purchase: JCPenny, Kohls, etc.)

Happy Freeloading!

Free Music Downloads

2008-12-04T16:59:00.000-07:00

Click here for free music downloads from Amazon.

Groceries!

2008-12-03T11:41:00.002-07:00

Albertsons:
If you spend $20 or more on select P&G products, receive $5 off your next shipping trip and 5 free redbox rentals

Albertsons Mac and Cheese 4/$1 with in ad coupon
Hunt's Spaghetti Sauce $.69 with in ad coupon
Fresh Express Salad $1.48 with in ad coupon
Albertsons American Cheese singles $.88 with in ad coupon
VO5 shampoo/conditioner $.69 with in ad coupon
Fresh boneless skinless chicken breast or tenders $1.77
Libbys Vegetables, Albertsons pasta or seasoning mix $.50
Clementine 3 lb bag $3.88

Harmons:

Sara Lee Bread $1.67
Grapefruit 5/$1
Milk $1.99
Hersheys Choc Chips $1.67, use insert coupon $1/3 = $1.33 ea when you buy 3 (Baking chips are also $1.00 at Honk's) **See Smith's list
Squash $.98/lb

Kents:

Grapes $.99/lb
Milk $2
Avacados $.99
WF Mac and Cheese 4/$1
Garden Club PB $1.67 (16 oz)
Hersheys Choc chips $1.67, use insert coupon $1/3 = $1.33 ea when you buy 3 (Baking chips are also $1.00 at Honk's) ** see Smith's list
Milk Chugs 2/$1
WF Froz Vegies $.79

*In Kent's (Roy) ad there is also a b1g1 Milk shake at Arctic Circle

Maceys:
*Maceys open house Dec 5-6

Good only at Open House

Clover Club Chips $1.67
Hersheys Chocolate Bars $.99
Coke Products $.69
Don Julio Tortilla Chips $.88
Clementines 5 lb $5.99
Gold N' Plump Rotisserie Chicken $5.00, use insert coupon $1.50/1 = $3.50

Chicken Breasts $1.39/lb
Carrots 1 lb $.89
Ground Beef $1.79/lb
Milk $1.85
WF Powdered or Brown Sugar $.88
WF Yogurt 10/$4
WF Cake Mixes $.77
Apple Sauce 3/$2
Howie's Root Beer $.89
WF Coconut $.67
WF Cocoa $1.67
Fleischmann's Yeast $3.59, use insert coupon $.45/1 = $3.14
Fleischmann's Yeast 3 pack $1.19, use insert coupon $.45/1 = $.74
WF Diced tomatoes $.57
Fiber One Toaster Pastries $1.67, use insert coupon $.70/1 = $.97
WF Froz Vegies $.77
Stouffers Lasagna $8.49, use coupon from magazine $1.00/1 = $7.49
Avacados $.99 ea
Crest Toothpaste $1.88, use insert coupon $1.00/1 = $.88

Smiths:

Dec 4th 3-11 Only:

Eggs (1 doz) $.99
Kroger Peanuts $.99
Tostitos Scoops $1.77
Half Gallon Choc Milk $1.00
Kroger Semi Sweet Baking Chips 2/$1

Milk $2.00
Oranges $.50/lb
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts $1.69
Kroger Yogurt 3/$1
Smiths Bread $1.25
Hersheys Choc Chips $1.29, use insert coupon $3/1 = $.96 ea when you buy 3

Winegars:

WF Brown or Powdered Sugar $.88
WF Yogurt 10/$4
Chicken Breasts $1.49/lb
Grapes $.99/lb
Apple Sauce 3/$2
WF Froz Vegies $.79
WF Mushrooms $.77
WF Diced Tomatoes $.69
Sara Lee Bread $1.50

More Holiday Ideas

2008-12-03T11:25:00.002-07:00

Stacy e-mailed me about some links with great ideas for Christmas decorating. Apparently we were both in the same mood. Here is what she found:

Home Sweet Home Inspiration

Organized Christmas

Tip Junkie

Executive Homemaker

Little Miss Crafty Pants

Deck the Halls

Also, she clued me into some Santa sightings:

Harmons: Saturday Dec. 6, 11-4 Free 4x6 (this is both in Roy and Harrisville, please check your location here)

IFA (12th st ogden): Santa will be visiting the store Saturday Dec. 13, no pictures, but you are welcome to bring your camera

Thanks again Stacy for all of the great tips!

Christmas Crafts

2008-12-02T14:06:00.006-07:00

Being in need of a little inspiration in my holiday decorating I thought I would post some of my ideas and hopefully get some from you in return. If you'd like to do a whole post about it, let me know, or you can comment or e-mail me and I'll post it.

Garlands:

Here is mine. I shredded some scrap fabric in the colors that I wanted (white, red, green, gold) and tied it onto twine. I love how it looks. You don't get a great idea from this picture, but it is kind of a country Christmas theme. Total cost: $1.50

I also saw a really cute garland made from twine, pine cones, and sticks (found in the yard and a few cinnamon sticks for scent). It was very cute. Total cost: $3.00

Ornament ideas:

The first year we were married all we had for our tree were the ornament balls. We got creative and used glue and glitter to make some one-of-a-kind ornaments. Total Cost: $1.00

I bought a bag of stars of varying size for $1.00 at the craft store and painted them to match my garland. Before I painted them I put several pieces of masking tape to make the stripes. I then sanded the edges and hot glued a piece of twine to the back for hanging. Total Cost: $1.00 (used leftover twine from garland)

With the smaller stars I painted, sanded, and glued them to raffia tied into a bow. Total Cost: $0.00

My sister gave me a great tip for those of you worried about your kids destroying your ornaments: Tie them with ribbon directly to the branch on the tree (of course you'll want to make sure your tree is secure so they won't tip it over when they pull on it). Isn't that how it works: solve one problem, create another!

Centerpieces:
I found some cinnamon scented pine cones for $1 and I had this old candle, berries, and basket. I filled it all in and this is on our table this year. Total Cost: $1.00

I had this candle and left over leaves from another project. I think the key is using what you have. Total Cost: $0.00

I saw a really cute centerpiece in a magazine. They took their pumpkins and gourds from Halloween and Thanksgiving, spray painted them silver and gold, and put them in a basket with oranges. Total Cost: $2.00

Random decorations:
Here are our stockings. We don't have a mantle, but I think it works. Hopefully by next year Henry will have homemade stocking . . . I'll just add that to my to do list.

To add an extra splash of color at Christmastime my mom ties ribbons around her throw pillows. It really dresses them up for the season. It also works around towels in the bathroom.

I also like to fill a basket with Christmas books and Tie a ribbon on it. I place it in our front room where Neal is sure to grab one and want to be read to. I think it is a great way to decorate and make sure I read some of the books I want to during the holidays.

Black Friday

2008-12-01T14:17:00.004-07:00

Did you venture out for Black Friday?

Here are the stops I made:

Old Navy, Walgreens, JCPenny, Merveyns, and Macys

I went about an hour after opening to Old Navy, then I waited in line for Walgreens to open (with about 15 other people), the other stores I went to later in the day, so I didn't really see any fights or anything fun.

I am unable to disclose too many of my deals due to the fact that they are presents but here is My hottest deal:
A Schick razor with a trimmer on one end. After sale price and coupons it was a $4.00 profit. I ended up buying crayons, hot wheels, and some other goodies at Walgreens as well.

What deals did everybody else pick up? Any crazy stories??

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2008-12-01T13:45:00.002-07:00

Rite Aid:
*Enter all of your receipts at riteaid.com from Nov. 16 - Dec. 24 and receive the following: $5 gift card for spending $25-$50, $10 gift card for spending $50-$100, or a $20 gift card for spending $100.01 or more (cumulative totals from 11/16-12/24, does not include prescriptions).

Gillette Fusion Razor $9.00, $5.00 rebate, insert coupon $4.00 /1 = Free
Philips Ear Buds $4.99, $4.99 Rebate = Free
Wrapping Paper $.77 (30", 50 sq ft)
Kellogg's Cereal b1g1 (I have several $1/1 coupons, however the prices on the cereal were $4.79, with coupons = $1.40 each which is good but I've seen a lot better deals on cereal lately)
Dawn Dish Soap $.99, use insert coupon $.50 = $.49
GE 24 hour timer or 6 outlet surge protector $5.00, $5.00 rebate = free

Walgreens:

Encore Spices 2/$1 with in ad coupon
All 12 load laundry detergent $1.79, print this $1.00/1 coupon or use insert coupon$.40/1 = $.79-$1.39
Christmas Cookie Cutters 3/$1
Reach Toothbrushes 2/$6, Receive $6 in Register Rewards* when you purchase 2, use insert coupon b1g1 = $3 profit

*Register Rewards are a gift certificate that prints out with your receipt. It is good on your next purchase and expires in 2 weeks.

I'm Alive

2008-12-01T13:42:00.002-07:00

I guess I have been a bit blogged out. I took the weekend (since Wednesday) off. We had a great Thanksgiving and I'm ready to get posting . . . here we go!

Call E Flower

2008-11-25T13:15:00.004-07:00

Target has a great deal on heads of Cauliflower or Broccoli:

on sale: $1.33, use this coupon for $1.00 off = $.33 each

What to do with Cauliflower??

Here are a couple of ideas:

Mashed "Potatoes"
1 head cauliflower (cut into florets)
3 cloves garlic
2 cans chicken broth
2 T chives

1. Combine cauliflower, garlic, and broth in saucepan. Boil. Reduce heat, simmer 12 minutes.

2. Reserve 2 T liquid, then drain. Puree in food processor, use reserved liquid if needed.

3. Season with salt and pepper, add chives just before serving.

Sneak in Food:

Cauliflower is great to steam, puree and freeze in ice cube trays. Then you can pop one of the cubes in casseroles, etc. for a little extra health benefit.

A centerpiece:

A Bouquet:

Hmmm . . . any ideas for the broccoli?

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2008-11-24T13:28:00.004-07:00

Rite Aid:

GE Power Strip $5.00, $5.00 rebate = free
Philips Universal Remote $4.99, $4.99 rebate = free
Loreal Hair Color $5.49, In ad coupon $1.50/1, insert coupon $2/1 = $1.99

Walgreens:

Hershey's candy 4/$10, $5 rebate, insert coupon $1.50/3 = 4/$3.50
Wrapping paper 3/$1.99
Wrap tissue, tags, bows 3/$.99
Sure deodorant $1.99, Easysaver* coupon $1.50, insert coupon $1.00/1 = profit
Foil 2/$1
Gain or Tide detergent $5.99, Register Rewards** $1, insert coupon $1/1 = $3.99 (not great, but I haven't seen many good deals on detergent lately)

*Easysaver - catalog in the front of the store
**Register Rewards - gift certificate given with receipt to use on next purchase

What did you see?

Free Lunch Buffet??

2008-11-21T12:58:00.002-07:00

Well, not exactly. I had a free 1 day membership pass to Sam's Club. The boys and I used it today and ended up staying for lunch, here were the free samples we tried:

punch
shrimp scampi
breaded shrimp
ham
green bean casserole
crackers and cheese
cheese cake (2 kinds)
apple crisp and ice cream
mini pigs in a blanket
spinach croissant
bbq chicken wings
crackers and dip
grilled salmon
pork egg roll
pecan pie
Hershey's candy bar
cup of nuts

Needless to say when we left, we were full! I recognize that it wasn't the most healthy, well balanced meal I've had, but I'm preparing for the holidays.

I've received several trial membership passes before and haven't yet taken advantage of it. I am totally going to next time! Just make sure you go on a Friday or Saturday to get the samples. If you are interested in purchasing anything, know that there is a 10% fee if you are not a member (even with your day pass). My only regret was not having Steve meet us for lunch.

**As a disclaimer to my swearing off Wal Mart: I didn't purchase anything, I only ate their food.

Groceries!

2008-11-19T21:39:00.003-07:00

Albertsons:

Spend $25 on select Kraft products and get $10 off a turkey
Green Giant Veg. Steamers $1.00, use insert coupon $1/1 = free
Land O Lakes Butter $1.00, use insert coupon $.35/1 = $.65
Libby's Pumpkin $1.50

Harmons:

Harmons Sour Cream $1.00
Libby's Pumpkin $1.50
Wilderness Pie Filling $2.00, use coupon from Good Housekeeping $.55/2 = $1.73 ea when you buy 2
Land O Lakes Butter $1.00, use insert coupon $.35/1 = $.65
Pictsweet Veggies $.69

Kents:

Swanson Broth $.39, use insert coupon $.25/4 = $.32 ea when you buy 4
WF Pumpkin $.99
WF Whipped topping $.69
Celery $.69
Yams 3 lbs/$1
Grandma Emilie's Bread $2
Grandma Sycamore's Bread $2
Don Julio Chips $.99
WF Pasta $1.00
WF Cream Cheese $.99
WF Cheese (32 oz) $4.99
Eggs (18 pk) $1.25
Cream O'Weber Sour Cream $.99
Cream O' Weber Pumpkin Pie Spice or Regular Egg Nog $1.25
In ad coupon for $1.00 off any Norbest Tender-timed turkey
Pineapple $.99/lb

Maceys:

In ad coupon $1.00 off Norbest Turkey
Stove Top Stuffing $.88
WF Pumpkin $.99
WF Whipped Topping $.69
Oven Bags $1.67, use insert coupon $1.00/1 = $.67
Marshmallows $.88
WF Frozen Veggies $.50
Nalley Dill Pickles $2.50, use insert coupon $1.00/1 = $1.50
WF Pasta $.97
WF Cheese (32 oz) $4.99
Keebler Club or Townhouse Crackers 2/$4, use in ad coupon $1/2, use insert coupon $1/2 = $1.00 each when you buy 2
Grandma Sycamore's Bread $2.00
Grandma Emilie's Bread $2.00
Eggs (1 doz) $.99
Milk $2.19
WF Sour Cream $.99
WF Froz OJ or Old Orchard Frozen Juices $1.25
Baby Carrots (2 lb) $2
Pineapple $.99/lb

Smiths:

Cream Cheese $1.00
Kroger Cottage Cheese or Sour Cream $1.00
Cool Whip $.99
Celery $.50

Winegars:

In ad coupon $1.00 off Norbest Turkey
Dole Pineapple $.88
WF Pumpkin $.88
WF Olives $.88
WF Froz Veggies $.46
Kraft Dressing $1.67, insert coupon $1/2 = $1.17
WF Sour Cream $.88
WF Cream Cheese $.77
WF Whipped Topping $.67
Yams 3 lbs/$1
Grandma Emilie's Bread $2
Grandma Sycamore's Bread $2
Oven Bags $1.67, use insert coupon $1/1 = $.67
Pineapple $.99/lb

A Free Birthday!

2008-11-18T15:06:00.004-07:00

Steve and I are lucky enough to have the same birthday. In celebration, here are some freebies we'll be taking advantage of:

Red Robin: We each get a free burger for signing up for their birthday club (it says on the coupon "one coupon per table" I called on it and they told me that they would just give us separate tickets and we each can get a free burger. How to make it work for you: Sign up within a week of your birthday because they also send out a $3 off any order coupon. Ask the server to give you and your spouse separate checks and use your free burger and $3 of the other).

Cold Stone Creamery: We each get a free cup of ice cream with one mix in.

Baskin Robbins: We each get a free scoop of ice cream

The coupons expire about 1 week after your birthday, so enjoy a week of freebies!

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2008-11-17T14:41:00.002-07:00

Rite Aid:

Almay Makeup b1g1, use 2 insert coupons for $1.00/1 = a fairly good deal on 2 Almay products
Pampers wipes 2/$5, $1 rebate, coupons $.50-$1.00/1, = $1.00-$2.00
St Ives Scrub $4.99, $4.99 rebate = free

Walgreens:

French's Fried onions $1.29 with in ad coupon, insert coupon $.50 = $.79
Skippy PB and Welch's Jam 2/$3, mailer coupon $.75/1 or insert coupon $1.00/2 = $.75-$1.00 each
Suave Hair Care $1.15 and up, buy 4 get $3 in *register rewards, use 2 $.75/2 = $.01 and up (for 4)

*Register Rewards - Like a gift check they give you with your receipt. Can be used on your next purchase, expires in appx 2 weeks.

Target:

Pampers or Huggies Wipes $5.49, use insert coupons $.50-$1.00/1
BC Potatoes $.79, buy 2 use insert coupon $1.00/2 = $.29 each when you buy 2
Ore Ida Mashed Potatoes 2/$6, buy 3 use 2 insert coupons for $1.00/1, 1 insert coupon for b2g1, and 1 Target coupon (from Sunday's insert) $1.00/2 = $1.00 each when you buy 3

Free photo Book at Snapfish

2008-11-12T16:20:00.003-07:00

Get your free photo book at Snapfish from Oprah. Click here to access. I haven't been able to do this yet, I think their site is overloaded. I'm not sure if you have to pay shipping, etc. Good Luck! Expires in 48 hours.

Groceries!

2008-11-12T13:43:00.002-07:00

Albertsons:

Grapes $.88/lb
Milk $2
Eggs 1 dozen $1.59
Albertsons bread $1.29
Breyers Ice cream (16 oz) $1.00, use insert coupon $.50/1 = $.50 (although I've heard at some stores their price is so low on this product you can get it for free or close to it)
Extra Lean Ground Beef $1.99/lb
Also, they have another deal going on : buy $20 or more of select products and get $10 off your next purchase

Harmons:

Oranges $.69/lb
Pillsbury Cake or Brownie mix $.88, insert coupon $1/2 = $.38 each (when you buy 2)
Post Cereals 5/$10 (save up to $3 off 1 gallon of milk with the purchase of 4 post cereals)
Milk $3.00
Harmons Cheddar (16 oz) $3.99

Kents:

Broccoli $.69/lb
Ham $1.49/lb
Norbest Turkeys $.99/lb
Libby's Pumpkin 2/$3 (29 oz, so it works out to be the same as the Walgreens deal this week), $1/2 printable here
Hershey's Chocolate Chips $1.25 (Thanks Karri for the tip: visit Honk's for $1 chocolate chips)
Powdered or Brown Sugar $.99
BC Cake Mixes $.88
Cool Whip $.99
Flour (25 lbs) $6.99
Marshmallows $.99
American Beauty Pasta $1.50
Eggs $2.19 (18 pk)
Pillsbury Crescent Rolls $1.67, insert coupon $.35/1
Sweet Potatoes or Yams $.99/lb
2 lb Cello Carrots $1.50 (in case you want/need more)
WF Specialty Mustard $.99

Maceys:

Libby's Pumpkin 2/$3 (29 oz, so it works out to be the same as the Walgreens deal this week), $1/2 printable here
Powdered or Brown Sugar $.99
BC Cake Mixes $.88
WF Specialty Mustard $.88
American Beauty Pasta $1.47
Sara Lee Bread $2.00
WF 10 pk burritos $2.49
WF Cheese (8 oz) $2.00
Eggs $2.19 (18 pk)
Cool Whip $.99

Smiths:

Buy 10 get $5 off: still some great deals here: GM Cereal, Stouffers En trees, Breyers Ice Cream, Chips, Hefty Bags, Pledge, BC Frosting, Crisco veg oil
Oranges $.69/lb
Milk $2
Kroger Cheese $16 oz) $3
Eggs 1 doz $1.25
Tyson Chicken $1.99/lb
Grandma Sycamore's Bread $1.67

Winegars:
*Having a special Holiday Open House tonight Nov. 12th 4-8 pm (advertisement states Roy and Clearfield locations - you may want to call for info on other location)
*Milk $1.88, Eggs $.99 (doz), Coke Products $.68

Eggs (18 pk) $1.88
Powdered or Brown Sugar $.99
Cool Whip $.99
WF Cheese (8 oz) $2

Stacy's Deals

2008-11-10T15:59:00.003-07:00

Stacy let me in on these a while ago and I'm sorry I haven't checked my email for a while.

If you haven't developed pictures using Shutterfly yet, now is the time to sign up. You get 50 free prints and free shipping on your first order. Check it out!
Redbox codes for a free rental: MCDMEDVD (at McDonald's Redbox only), ELECTION, DVDTHX4, DVD4ME, REDBOX, or BREAKROOM (use each code once per credit card)

Let me know what works for you. I was able to get the free prints and free shipping from Shutterfly and I know we've used the code BREAKROOM before. Good luck and thanks Stacy.

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2008-11-10T13:45:00.002-07:00

Rite Aid:
Sorry, nothing too impressive here. Maybe I missed some, please let me know!

Crest Pro-Heath $2.69, rebate $2.69, insert coupon $.75/1 = $.75 profit
Luvs diapers 2/$20, rebate $4.00 on 2 = 2/$16 (I don't have any Luvs coupons currently, but this is a pretty good deal)

Walgreens:

BC Frosting Cake, or Brownie Mix, $.99 with in ad coupon, insert coupon $.50/1 frosting or print $.55/1 here = $.44-.49
Libby's Pumpkin $.99 with in ad coupon, print this coupon $1.00/2 = $.49 each (when you buy 2)

Questions

2008-11-07T16:29:00.003-07:00

Steve and I have decided to venture into the world of un-familial babysitting. Seeing as I am so far removed from this, I hardly know where to start. Here are some questions:

1 - What age range of babysitters should I call?
I found that the girls I have thought would be good for my kids are too old. I'm not really sure when I stopped either. 16??

What I would like out of a babysitter:

2 - What is the going rate?
I remember thinking I was making really good money for $1 per hour per kid. I've been told it is higher, what do you think??

My fears:

This is just so . . . Neal:

Any other tips appreciated!!

Free 8 X 10

2008-11-07T15:29:00.001-07:00

You can get a free 8 X 10 at Walgreens. Simply upload your picture and use the coupon code FREEPIC. To avoid shipping pick up your picture at your nearest location. The hardest part was deciding which picture I want!

What are you doing with all of those carrots?

2008-11-06T13:44:00.003-07:00

I hope more of you capitalized on the carrots, candy, and costumes at Target this week! Seeing as I now have an abundance of carrots I thought I'd ask what everybody else is going to do with their carrots??

Here are 2 recipes I have tried and LOVED!

Carrot-Raisin Bran Muffins
(Family Circle Magazine)

1 1/4 c wheat bran or oat bran cereal 2/3 c milk
3/4 tsp whole wheat flour 2 eggs
3/4 c all purpose flour 1/2 c brown sugar
1 1/2 tsp baking powder 1/2 c oil
1 1/2 tsp baking soda 3/4 c grated carrots
1/2 tsp salt 3/4 c raisins
1/2 tsp cinnamon

Mix dry ingredients

Stir wet ingredients in separate bowl

Add dry ingredients.

Put in greased muffin tin 375 for 16-18 minutes

Health info: 204 calories 7 g fat 5 g protein 33 g carbohydrate 4 g fiber 332 mg sodium 36 mg cholesterol

Carrot Cake
(LionHouse)

2 c flour 1/2 c raisins
1 tsp salt 3 c grated carrots
1 tsp baking soda 2 c sugar
2 tsp cinnamon 1 c oil
1/2 c coconut 4 eggs
1/2 c walnuts

Puree Raisins, walnuts, and coconut

Mix dry ingredients

Combine sugar and oil. Add eggs and beat until creamy. Add dry ingredients. Add pureed nut mixture.

Bake 350 40-45 min in greased pan.

Cream Cheese Icing

2 pkgs cream cheese
1/2 c butter
5 c powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla

Health info: You don't want to know

**I substituted oatmeal for walnuts and halved the icing recipe (this was more than enough, so if unless you like a TON of icing I would half it). Lately I have been substituting applesauce for oil. It's a 1 to 1 substitute and I haven't had any problems when I've done it.

I ended up shredding a lot of carrots and freezing them. I also froze a couple of bags whole, I understand these should be used for cooking also.

What did you do with your carrots??

Groceries!

2008-11-05T14:44:00.002-07:00

Albertsons:
The big deal here this week is getting $15 off your next purchase when you spend $30 on participating items. Here are the items:

10/$10 - BC Cake mixes, Green Giant Vegetables (box), Lipton Rice Sides, Lipton Dry Soup Mix, BC Potatoes, B$J Ice Cream (coupons for rice sides and potatoes)
3/$5 Ham Helper, Suave Shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, ragu pasta sauce, BC Cookie Mix, Progresso soup, Wish bone Salad Dressing BC Brownies (coupons for Deoderant, Ragu, Progresso, Wish Bone
2/$5 - GM Cereals, Q tips, Gogurt, Pilsbury Cookie Dough, Skippy PB, Suave Lotion, BC warm delights, GM Snacks, Green Giant Veg w/sauce, Mayo, BC Muffins (coupons for Cereal, Q tips, Gogurt, Cookie Dough, Skippy, Lotion, Warm Delights, and Snacks
3/$10 - Breyers Ice cream, Pilsbury biscuits, Macaroni Grill Dinner, Totinos Pizza Rolls, Klondike Bars, All (coupons for Breyers, All, Macaroni Grill Dinner)

Best deal I can see:
3 BC Potatoes $1.00 $1.00/2, $.40/1 = $1.60
2 Lipton Rice Sides $1.00 $.75/2 = $1.25
1 Suave Deodorant $1.67 $.75/1 = $.92
2 Suave shampoo or cond $1.67 $.75/2 = $2.59
2 Progress soup $1.67 $1.10/1 = $1.14
1 Ragu $1.67 $.75/1 = $.92
1 Best Foods Mayo $2.50 $.75/1 = $1.75
1 Skippy PB $2.50 $.75/1 = $1.75
4 GM Cereal $2.50 $.55/1, $.75/1, $1.00/2 = $7.70
$30 pre coupon = 19.62 out of pocket and receive $15 off your next purchase

**I have been told that the $30 spent can be pre coupon

Fresh Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Tenders $1.67/lb

Harmons:

Potatoes $.99 (5 lb)
Milk $1.99
Libbys Vegetables 3/$.99
Chex Cereal $1.50 (must purchase 3) with in ad coupon, insert coupon $1.00/2 = $3.50 for 3
Grandma Sycamore's Bread $1.25
Dole Fruit $.79

Kents:

Grapes $.99/lb
WF Cake Mixes $.69
WF Cooking oil $2.88 (48 oz)
Evaporated Milk $.69
Brown or Powdered Sugar $.99
WF Raisins $2.99
Olives $.99
Milk $2.50
Bouillon Cubes $.99

Maceys:

WF Cooking Oil $2.88
C&H Powdered or Brown Sugar $1.50, insert coupon $.35/1
WF Baking Cocoa $1.50
WF Cake Mixes$.69
WF Applesauce $1.25
WF Yogurt $1.50 (32 oz)
Milk $2.19

Smiths:
Buy 10 get $5 off

Evaporated milk $.50
Quaker Quakes $.50
Swiss miss cocoa
Colgate Toothpaste $1.00, insert coupon $.75/2
GM Cereal and Snacks $1.50, insert coupons $.50/2, $1.00/2

Winegars:

WF Raisins $2.99
WF Oil $2.88
WF Cake Mix $.69
Grapes $.88/lb
C&H Powdered or Brown Sugar $1.50, insert coupon $.35/1
WF Eggs $1.29
WF Yogurt $1.67

I don't have a free Western Family product for you this week, however if you are feeling creative submit a video for their final webisode and make some money! Here are the details.

Freepeats

2008-11-04T16:27:00.002-07:00

If you haven't signed up for freepeats yet, now is your chance. It is free membership week. Freepeats allows you to find free used baby items in the Salt Lake area. Check it out. Also if you need diapers, check out ksl.com. I was surprised at the deals I found.

Target

2008-11-04T09:45:00.003-07:00

In the paper today is said that a 1 lb Green Giant bag of carrots is $.99. Use this $1.00 off coupon to get them free!! You can print as many coupons as you'd like, as you recall I bought 12 earlier. If you are headed there you may want to pick up some Prego with the target coupon on that same link and a $.75/2 from the insert coupons = $.80 each when you buy 2.

What to Give??

2008-11-04T09:20:00.000-07:00

I heard this the other day and thought it was a GREAT idea!

Create a gift accordion file (or computer file) labeled with everyone you generally buy presents for. Whenever you hear of something they may like or find something in a magazine, put it in the folder. Then when Christmas or their birthday rolls around you've got a stockpile of great ideas.

Rite Aid and Walgreens

2008-11-03T15:25:00.002-07:00

Rite Aid:

Gum Toothbrushes $1.99, mail in rebate $1.99 = free
SoyJoy Bars 10/$5, mail in rebate $5.00, insert coupon b2g1 free, find additional coupons here = free or profit (depending on coupons)
GE Surge Protector or 24 hour timer $5.99, mail in rebate $5.00 = $.99

Walgreens:

Dawn Dish Soap $.99 with in ad coupon, insert coupon $.25/1, or mailer $.50/1 = $.49-$.74
Encore Spices 2/$1 with in ad coupon
Printer Cartridge Refill b1g1 with in ad coupon

My Week in Apples

2008-10-30T15:01:00.000-06:00

My in-laws shared their wealth and gave us 2 huge buckets of apples. I made 2 batches of applesauce and 2 batches of dried apples, but I think my favorite (and Neal's) was the leather. I haven't tried it before, but it was easy. I found the recipe here. Here's what we did:

1. Clean and cut up Apples (it says you don't have to peel them, but I did)

2. Add 1 T lemon juice for every court of apples - Puree in Food Processor

3. Cover Dryer (or pan) with plastic wrap (you can spray it with a non-stick spray - I didn't find it necessary)

4. Spread puree

5. Dry on dehydrator at 140 for 5-6 hours or place in oven on lowest setting with the door open for 5-6 hours (it took longer for mine to dry than the recipe states). Cut out pieces and roll.

6. Compost (the reason Steve loves me)