Frugal, Fun & Fabulous

2011-11-25T08:33:00.001-05:00

OLD Navy $20 Gift Certificate for ONLY $10

Go HERE for this GREAT offer!! Hurry… Every time Groupon runs this deal, it runs out!!!

Old Navy 50% Off Gift Certificate HERE.

"I miss your blog..."

2011-11-18T22:06:00.002-05:00

"You know what - I miss it too".

This was a conversation I had this evening with a friend / former colleague that I happened to run into at happy hour.

She likely missed reading about deals and coupons...I miss posting that, but mostly I miss me. This blog is part of my identity.

Over the last few months life has changed drastically. Most of the changes have been positive, although none have been without a concerted effort towards adjustment. Six animals down to two (silly to some, but if you know anything about me, you know that my animals are as important to me as any other living being on this earth); big house on a plot of land traded for a 550 square foot apartment in the city; the illusion of a family replaced by the reality that in this world, one can only depend on themselves (true story).

That doesn't even touch my new job as a project analyst for a government contacting agency. One word describes my profession - CRAZY...albeit in a good way. It gives me purpose.

Learning has been key in this phase of my life. The last three months have felt like three decades, spent learning how to care for my family, animals, my AMAZING friends, and somewhere in that mix, me.

I have decided that from this day forward, I will post more. Vague, I know. It's a promise to myself to put the Blackberry down and be Tina, even if for just a few minutes every now and then.

A promise to you and to me.

Thank you Michelle.

Tina

A note to all of my wonderful followers....

2011-09-15T18:34:00.003-04:00

I know I haven't posted anything lately. I have been through so many changes in the last month that I don't even know where to begin.

First and foremost, my husband decided that he wanted a divorce. This is most definitely the hardest thing I have ever been through in my life. I still don't really know why, but picking up the pieces and moving on is not a short or easy process.

I've moved into an amazing apartment in South Tampa, about 10 minutes from my new job...which is another change.

I absolutely love my new job (even though I miss my old one terribly). The people I am working with have been so supportive and took me in as family right away. The job is not easy, but I really could not be more grateful for their kindness, support, and faith in me during this time.

I get a lot of flack for blasting my life on the internet, but I don't really care. My life is an open book and my heart is an open heart. I live to help and love people and that's always who I am going to be.

What I am most grateful for is my friends and family, who have kept me going through all of this. There are so many days where I just can't bare the thought of getting out of bed (though I don't sleep well at all right now), and they have been there for me so much. I'm a very fortunate girl to have so many wonderful, caring, and amazing people in my life.

I can't say exactly when I'll be posting Frugal, Fun, & Fabulous stuff again because I just don't know. I will though- please hang tight and don't un-follow me. I am here, and I will be better...one day.

If you read this, thank you, and I am sorry. This will be the only post about my situation- I've started a new blog for that: Story of a Divorcey.

Thank you all for bearing with me right now. I love that you read my blog and love all of you!

Tina

HUGE Deposit to the cruise fund!

2011-08-07T20:41:00.002-04:00

It's been a while since I've posted about a deposit to the cruise fund. Not because I haven't been saving though! I'm so excited about the deposit today because it's the biggest one yet.

My previous company offered a referral bonus if you referred someone who was hired and stayed with the company for at least 6 months. After taxes I was left with $1,100 from that to add to the fund.

I traveled to Georgia last week. I drove up to give my cousin my older car (I got a new one), and flew back. To make a long story short, I was bumped from two flights but offered $400 for each flight as an airline credit, so that's $800 found!

Another large portion of today's deposit is a payout of unused vacation time I had- $850.

In the past couple of weeks, I saved the following amounts at various stores:

Publix: $108.18

CVS: $83.84

Old Navy: $52.38

Kroger (during my trip to GA): $8.44

That brings the total for today to $3,002.84, $271.01 OVER what I needed!! :)

Amount needed: $ 3,238.00
Amount "found"
Deposit #1: $ 183.33
Deposit #2: $112.00
Deposit #3:$59.36
Deposit #4: $47.75
Deposit #5: $163.09
Today's Deposit: $3,002.84
Remaining: None!!

We cruise on September 3, so any amounts found / saved between now and then will go straight into savings, just in case we go over budget.

Free P'Zone from Pizza Hut!

2011-08-07T20:24:00.001-04:00

For this week only, you can get a FREE P’Zone from Pizza Hut when you like them on Facebook. Just click on the “Get You P’Zone” tab, you will have to place your order online to get the FREE P’Zone.

My meal plan for the month

2011-08-07T15:40:00.002-04:00

Yes, you read that right. I'm planning a meal plan from now through the end of the month. I really need to clear out my pantry and freezer, so this is based on what I have on hand and what I'll be stocking up on this week at Publix.

I'm not going to assign specific days to the meals, so I have the flexibility to make what I feel like having that day.

As a bonus, this will also help save a ton of cash for our upcoming cruise!!

Here's what's on my list:

Tacos
Chicken stir fry, rice, salad
Chicken sausage, pierogies, veggie
Black beans and yellow rice x 2
Chili /cornbread
Steak, mashed potatoes, veggie
Burgers / Fries
Tuna Casserole
Frozen lasagna x 2, salad
Fettuccine Alfredo, salad
Pot Roast
Breakfast for dinner (Pancakes, eggs, & smoothies)
Enchiladas, Mexican rice
Couscous Salad
Tomato Bisque, grilled cheese sandwiches
Meatball sandwiches
BBQ Chicken, baked beans, collard greens
Baked Halibut, rice, veggie
Sweet & Sour Chicken, rice

I plan on spending bout $10 a week on incidentals like fresh produce. This should use up a large portion of what I have on hand.

O.M.G.- CVS Scenario week of 8/7/11- you are not going to believe this!

2011-08-07T11:18:00.002-04:00

I'll be honest- I haven't seen a really enticing CVS ad for a while now. As I was having my coffee and flipping through my Sunday paper, I picked up the CVS ad for this week not expecting too much. Let's just say my heart started racing when I realized how sweet this ad is.

I'm starting with 6 ECB from last week. If you don't have any ECB, you can start with $6 OOP. If you haven't gotten a paper yet go get one- NOW! :)

Also, before shopping, be sure to go by the Magic Coupon Machine to get your mystery beauty coupon.

Transaction #1:

Any L'Oreal Skin Care Products, psa $6.99
Get $10 ECBs wyb $25 (Limit 1)

Scenario:

Buy 5 skin care products @ $6.99 (for a list see HERE)

= $34.95

- 2 x $3/2 L’Oreal Skincare Products 8/7/2011 RP Insert (exp 10/2/2011)
- $1/1 L’Oreal Skincare Product 8/7/2011 RP Insert (exp 10/2/2011)

- $6 ECB

= $21.95

Earn 10 ECB

That's $2.39 per product after Q's and ECB's!

Transaction #2:

John Frieda Hair Care Products
Get $5 ECBs wyb $15 (Limit 1)

--John Frieda Collection Shampoo, Conditioner (8-10 o.) or Styler (3-12 oz.), $5
--John Frieda Collection Hair Treatments (0.5-6.5 oz.), $8
--John Frieda Precision Foam Hair Colour, $12

Scenario:

Buy (1) John Frieda Precision Foam Hair Colour at $12- LOVE THIS STUFF!
Buy (1) John Frieda Frizz Ease Styler Product at $5

= $17.00

Use -$5/1 John Frieda Precision Foam Colour Product 6/30/2011 John Frieda (exp 8/31/2011)
Use $1/1 John Frieda Frizz-Ease, exp. 9/30/11 (ALL YOU Aug '11)
- 10 ECB

= $1.00 OOP

Earn 5 ECB

Transaction #3:

Skintimate Shave Gel or Cream, $1.99

Schick Hydro 3 or 5 Razor or Cartridge (4 ct.), $8.49
Get $5 ECBs (Limit 1)

= $10.48

- $2/1 Schick Hydro Razor, exp. 9/18/11 (SS 08/07/11)
- $1.50/1 Skintimate Cream Shave printable

- 5 ECB

= $1.98 OOP

Earn 5 ECB

Transaction #4:

Dove, Caress, or Lever Products
Get $5 ECBs wyb $15 (Limit 1)

-Dove Shampoo, Conditioner (12 oz.) or Styler (4-9.25 oz.), 2/$6

Scenario:

Get 2 Shampoos, 2 Conditioners, and 1 Styling product ($15 total). Use these coupons:

$1.50/2 Dove Hair Care Product printable
FREE Dove Treatment wyb Dove Shampoo or Conditioner, exp. 8/28/11 (RP 07/31/11)
2 x $1/1 Dove Hair Care, exp. 9/30/11(ALL YOU Aug '11)

= $8.50
- 5 ECB
= $3.50 OOP ($.59 per product!)

Earn 5 ECB

Transaction #5:

Softsoap Products, 3/$9
Softsoap Body Wash (15-18 oz.), Liquid or Foaming Hand Soap (8-8.5 oz.)
Get $3 ECBs wyb 3 (Limit 1)

Scenario:

Buy 3 Body Washes- $9.00

Use the following Q's (if you only had one insert that week like me):

-$0.75/1 Softsoap Body Wash, exp. 8/13/11 (SS 07/24/11 R)
-$0.50/1 Softsoap Body Wash, exp. 9/4/11 (SS 07/24/11 R)
-$1/1 Softsoap Body Wash, exp. 8/13/11 (SS 07/24/11)

- 5 ECB

= $1.75 OOP

Earn 3 ECB

That's it for now! I'll likely be posting another scenario this week after I see what the magical coupon machine gives me! :)

My CVS Scenario week of 7/31/11

2011-08-04T22:24:00.003-04:00

I'm starting out with $2.50 ECB's this week.

Transaction #1:

Bic Soleil Shimmer Razor Starter Kit or Cartridge (4 ct.), $5.99
Get $3 ECBs (Limit 1)
- $3/1 Bic Soleil Disposable or Soleil System Razor, exp. 8/21/11 (SS 07/10/11)
- $2.50 ECB
= $.49 oop

Earn 3 ECB

Transaction # 2:

Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief Toothpaste (4 oz.), $4.99
Get $3 ECBs (Limit 2)
$1.50/1 Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief Toothpaste, exp. 8/31/11 (SS 07/31/11)
- $3 ECB
= $.49 oop

Earn 3 ECB

Transaction # 3:

Skinny Cow Singles, $0.99
Get $0.99 ECBs (Limit 1) x 2

Revlon Super Lustrous ColorBurst Lip Product, $5.79
Get $3 in ECBs wyb 1 (Limit 6) x 2

= $12.57

- 3 ECB

-$1/1 Revlon Color Cosmetic Product, exp. 8/28/11 (SS 07/17/11 R)
-$3/$10 CVS Purchase CRT
-B1G1 Skinny Cow Dreamy Clusters or Heavenly Crisp printable

= $3.58 oop

Earn 3 and .99 ECB

FREE Activia Select yogurt!

2011-08-04T20:28:00.001-04:00

I'm very excited about this one- I love Activia! To get this coupon “like” Activia on Facebook and then click on the “Activia Selects” tab. You will then need to fill out the form for the coupon and the coupon will be sent to your email.

**Fine Print: Free coupon offer good 08/03/11 – 08/15/11, up to 1 million coupons, on any Activia Selects Single Serve, up to $3.00. One coupon per household. Offer valid in the U.S. only. VOID IN LA, NJ, AND CA. Coupon Valid until 08/15/11.

2 Free Ruby minis at Ruby Tuesday!!

2011-08-04T20:18:00.002-04:00

Ruby Tuesday has been totally awesome with all of the freebies lately!! You can get a coupon for 2 Free Ruby minis with fries with the purchase of 2 non-alcoholic drinks when you “like” them on Facebook HERE. The are giving away 100,000 coupons in total, and it will be sent to you via email. Mine is valid August 4-9th.

My shopping list for Publix 8/7/11

2011-08-04T15:26:00.003-04:00

From the Publix ad that begins 8/4:

Quaker Life Cereal, Squares, or Cap’N Crunch, 15.4 to 20 oz, BOGO $4.89
-$0.75/1 Quaker Life Cereal 6/19/2011 RP Insert (exp 8/31/2011)
-$1/2 Quaker Life Cereal Boxes 6/19/2011 RP Insert (exp 8/31/2011)

Batter Blaster Pancake & Waffle Batter, Original or Organic, or Ready to Cook Buttermilk or Double Chocolate, 18 oz, BOGO $4.19
-$1/1 Batter Blaster Product

Dove Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant, 2.6 oz (excluding Ultimate), BOGO $2.99
-$1.50/1 Dove Body Wash AND Deodorant or Body Mist Rolling
-$1/1 Dove Go Sleeveless Deodorant Rolling

Michael Angelo’s Meat Lasagna, 20 to 32 oz, 2/$11
-B1G1 Michael Angelo’s Entree printable (must register)

(this makes these $2.25 each- great for a cheap, quick dinner!)

Classico Pasta Sauce, 8.1 to 24 oz jar, 2/$4
-$1/2 Classico Pasta Sauces 5/15/2011 SS Insert (exp 9/10/2011)

Perdue Fit & Easy Chicken Breast, $2.99/lb

Bottom Round Roast, $3.69/lb

Eat Smart Vegetables, 10 or 12 oz pkg, 3/$5

Green Advantage Buy Flyer “Sail into Savings,” which is effective 8/6 to 8/26.

$6/2 Sundown Naturals vitamins, Osteo Bi-Flex, Flex-a-min, Ester-C, or Marvel Heroes gummies
-$1/1 Sundown Naturals Vitamin Product (IE) Rolling Printable (FF)

$5/2 Advil or Advil PM 32 ct+ or Children’s Advil or Thermacare 2 ct or 3 ct
-$5/2 Advil and Thermacare Rolling
Advil (my price 4.29) and thermacare(my price 6.99) together.
4.29+6.99=11.28 11.28-10(MQ and Publix combined)=1.28 for both

$2/1 John Frieda Precision foam colour
-$5/1 John Frieda Precision Foam Colour Product (exp 8/31/2011)
-$3/1 John Frieda Precision Foam Colour Product 6/5/2011 SS Insert (exp 8/27/2011)

$3/1 Tylenol Precise 2.5 oz cream or heat patch 3 ct
-$3/1 Tylenol Precise Heat Patch 7/31/2011 SS Insert (exp 10/31/2011)
-$2/1 Tylenol Precise Product Rolling

From the Yellow Advantage Buy Flyer “Back to School,” which is effective Saturday, July 30 through Friday, August 19:

$1/2 Jimmy Dean items 2.2 to 34 oz. (Frozen or Fresh)
-$1/1 Jimmy Dean D-Lights Sandwich or Bowl (IE) Rolling Printable (FF)
-$1/1 Jimmy Dean D-Light Bowls 7/10/2011 RP Insert (exp 8/31/2011)

$1/ 2 Hillshire Farm Lunch Meats 8 to 9 oz
-$1/2 Hillshire Farm Lunch Meat 7/10/2011 RP Insert (exp 8/13/2011)

$1/1 Dean’s Dip 12 to 15 oz
-$1/2 Dean’s Dips (IE) Rolling Printable (FF)
-$1/1 Dean’s Pretzel Dip Rolling

Fruit2day, 6.75 oz, 3/$3

-$0.45/1 Fruit2Day Product Rolling

-$1/2 Fruit2day Single Bottles Rolling

V8 V-Fusion Juice or V8 Vegetable Juice, 6 pk, 2/$6
-$1/1 V8 V-Fusion + Tea Beverage (exp 8/2/2011) (if included)
-$1.50/1 V8 V-Fusion Juice Variety 6/26/2011 SS Insert (exp 7/31/2011)
-B2G1 V8 V-Fusion + Tea WYB V8 V-Fusion Juice 6/26/2011 SS Insert (exp 7/31/2011)
-$1/1 V8 V-Fusion Energy or V-8 Fusion Juice Rolling
-$1/2 V8 V-Fusion Juice Bottles (exp 8/10/2011)
-$1/2 V8 V-Fusion Juice Bottles Rolling
-$1/2 V8 100% Vegetable Juice (exp 8/10/2011)
-$1/2 V8 100% Vegetable Juice (exp 8/2/2011)
-$1/2 V8 100% Vegetable Juice (exp 8/7/2011)

Athenos Greek Yogurt, 5.3 oz, 10/$10
-$1/2 Athenos Greek Yogurt Rolling

Seattle’s Best, 4 pk, 9.5 oz cans, $4.49
-$2/1 Seattle’s Best Coffee Iced Latte 6/5/2011 SS Insert (exp 8/7/2011)

My CVS Plan for the week of 7/24/11

2011-07-25T12:05:00.002-04:00

This week I only have $2.50 ECB, so now is a great time to start CVS'ing if you want to follow my scenario for very little OOP.

The CVS Magic Coupon Machine is printing a $2/2 Hair Care Products Coupon this week! Make sure you scan your card at CVS at the Coupon Center each time you go, you can continue scanning the card till it tells you that there are no more coupons available.

VO5 Shampoo & Conditioner are priced at $0.89 each
Use the $2/2 CVS Coupon from the Coupon Machine
FREE after Coupons!

Transaction #1:

U by Kotex Tampons, Pads or Liners, $3.49
Get $2 ECBs (Limit 1)
$1/1 U by Kotex Pads, Liners, or Tampons printable
$1/1 U By Kotex Liners (ets), exp. 9-3-11 (SS 7/24/11)
$1/1 U by Kotex Pads (ets), exp. 9-3-11 (SS 7/24/11)
$1/1 U by Kotex by Tampons (ets.), exp. 9-3-11 (SS 7/24/11)

= $2.49

-$2.50 ECB

= FREE, Earn 2 ECB

Transaction #2:

PaperMate pens, $1.99
Get $1.99 ECBs (Limit 1)
- 2 ECB

= FREE, Earn $1.99 ECB

Transaction #3:

Crest or Oral-B Products, $2.99
Get $2 ECBs (Limit 2)
–Crest Pro Health Toothpaste (4.2 oz.), Crest Scope Outlast or 3D White Toothpaste (4 oz.)
$0.75/1 Crest Toothpaste, exp. 7/31/11 (P&G 07/03/11)
$0.75/1 Crest Toothpaste or Liquid Gel, exp. 7/31/11 (P&G 06/05/11)

- $1.99 ECB

= $.26 OOP

Earn 2 ECB

Transaction #4- Repeat above

Not a bad haul for $.26 Total!!

Hurry- $10 off a $10 puchase at Pier One!

2011-07-25T11:35:00.001-04:00

Hurry and print out your HOT coupon for $10 off your $10 purchase at Pier One. This coupon is good through Wednesday.

Here’s how:

Like Pier One on Facebook
Click on the Daily Deal tab on the left side
Click on Here’s the Deal above the elephant
Print out your coupon while you can!

FREE sample of Burn Jel

2011-07-20T20:50:00.001-04:00

Go Here and complete this form to receive your FREE sample of Burn Jel emergency burn care, Muscle Jel pain-relieving topical analgesic or UnBurn for sunburn relief

FREE Supergoop Sunscreen @ Spehora in JC Penny

2011-07-20T10:56:00.002-04:00

Get a free sample of Supergood Suncreen wipes or Deluxe all over at participating Sephora inside JC Penny Stores! Offer good until 8/16 or while supplies last.

Great Deals @ Wal-Mart

2011-07-17T14:21:00.003-04:00

Unfortunately my car battery died yesterday s that meant a trip to Wal-Mart to replace it. I figured I'd take advantage of some current deals while I was there. Here's some of the things I picked up:

Trappey’s Hot Sauce 12oz $0.88
Use the $1/1 coupon found here
Final cost Free + $0.12 overage!

Mom’s Best Oatmeal $1
Use the $0.75/1 coupon found here
Final cost $0.25!

Benadryl Itch Relief Stick (0.47 oz.) $2.28-$2.54 (Regular Price)
Use the $2/1 coupon found in the 6/19 RP
Final cost as low as $0.28!

Reach Floss $0.88
Use the $1/1 Select Listerine or Reach Products coupon found in the 4/17 SS
Final cost FREE + $0.12 overage to go towards other items!

Dove Mens Care Bar 6-Pack $3–$5.97
Use the $4/1 Dove Men+Care Body and Face Bar coupon found in the 6/26 RP
Final cost as low as Free!

Noxzema Bikini Shavers (3 pack) $1.97
Use the $2/1 coupon found in the 7/10 RP
Final cost FREE + $0.03 in overage to go towards other items

Frank's Hot Sauce — $0.98
Use $1/1 from 5/15 SS (exp 7/31)
Final cost FREE + $0.02 in overage to go towards other items

Dial Lotion Travel Size — $0.97
Use $1/1 printable
Final cost FREE + $0.03 in overage to go towards other items

Kraft Mac & Cheese Veggie Pasta — $1.22
Use $1/1 printable
Final cost $0.22!

I'm going to be making a big deposit to the cruise fund soon- stay tuned! :)

FREE Burger @ Ruby Tuesdays- Hurry!

2011-07-15T10:29:00.001-04:00

Happy Friday!!

Log In to your Facebook Account & Sign up with Ruby Tuesday’s to receive a Coupon for a FREE Burger. This is limited to the first 100,000 and it looks like there are around 80,000 left!

$10 off Gas at Publix

2011-07-03T18:27:00.002-04:00

Click here for a coupon for $10 off of a $50 gas card with any $25 purchase at Publix! Valid through 7/6.

$163.09 deposit to the cruise fund!

2011-06-22T20:18:00.005-04:00

Over the past few weeks, I've been able to make quite a dent in the cruise fund! Today, I was SO excited to find some Banana Boat SPF 4 spray at the Dollar Store- I love that stuff! I bought three cans, then priced them out at my local CVS and Publix- The average price was $10, so saved $27! Aside from that, I got a gift card to Bath & Body Works, which I combined with the Semi-Annual sale to get some great summer candles.

In addition, the price of my cruise dropped $50. Carnival guarantees the lowest price, so I called them and was refunded the $50, and given an upgrade!

I also saved quite a bit on my groceries, and received a mail in rebate from Kelloggs for $3.99.

Amount needed: $ 3,238.00
Amount "found"
Deposit #1: $ 183.33
Deposit #2: $112.00
Deposit #3:$59.36
Deposit #4: $47.75
Today's Deposit: $163.09
Remaining: $ 2,731.83

WOW- $1 Sub @ Jimmy Johns tomorrow! (Participating Locations Locations in Salt Lake City, Tampa and Wichita)

2011-06-22T14:49:00.003-04:00

Tomorrow is Customer Appreciation Day at Jimmy Johns, and to celebrate they are selling subs #1-6 for just $1 on June 23rd from 11a-3p at participating locations! Click here for all of the info and a list of locations!

Free contact solution @ Wal-Mart

2011-06-21T21:33:00.002-04:00

Here’s a great offer for Walmart, You can Print this Coupon and take it to a Walmart Vision Center to receive a Free 2 oz. Sample of RevitaLens OcuTec Solution and a Free Contact Case!

My CVS Scenario week of 6/19/11

2011-06-19T11:26:00.002-04:00

Happy Father's Day everyone! Here's my CVS scenario for this week. I'm starting with 14 ECB.

Transaction #1:

G-U-M PerioBalance Lozenges (28 ct.), $15.99
Get $15.99 ECBs (Limit 1)
- 14 ECB
= $1.99 OOP
Earn $15.99 ECB

Transaction #2:

Hershey’s Bliss (8.6-9.6 oz.), $5.99
Get $5.99 ECBs (Limit 1)

PowerBar Energy or Protein Bites (2.6-3 oz.), $2.49
Get $2.49 ECBs (Limit 1)

Colgate Total Gum Defense, Advance or Enamel Strength (4 oz.), Max (6 oz.) or 360 Surround Toothbrush, $2.79
Get $2 ECBs (Limit 1)

Dep or L.A. Looks all gels (12-20 oz.), $2.99
Get $2 ECBs (Limit 1)

Vitaminwater (20 oz.), Smartwater (1 liter), Powerade (32 oz.) Fuze or Honest Tea (16.9 oz.), 5/$5
Get 2 ECBs wyb 5 (Limit 1)

Revlon nail (excludes clearance items) $4.99 Limit 6
Get $3 ECB

TOTAL: $24.25

-$1 Revlon Nail Enamel (SS 4/10) -$1/1 Hershey’s Bliss Bag, exp. 6/26/11 (SS 05/01/11) -$1/1 L.A. Looks Product, exp. 8/15/11 (SS 5/15/11) -$1/1 Colgate Total Advanced Toothpaste, exp. 7/2/11 (SS 06/12/11 R) -$2- 4 x $.50/1 Vitamin Water Tearpad

= $17.25
-$15.99 ECB
= $1.26 OOP

Earn $5.99, $2.49, $2, $2, and $3 ECB

My CVS Scenario week of 6/5/11

2011-06-10T12:18:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone! Here's my scenario for CVS this week. I'm starting with 9 ECB, but if you don't have any ECB you can start with $9 oop.

1 x Oral B Pulsar Toothbrush (1 ct.), $5.99
Get $3 ECBs (Limit 2)

2 x Excedrin Extra Strength, PM or Migraine ( 8 ct.), $0.99 (While Supplies Last)
Get $0.99 ECBs (Limit 2)

Crest Pro-Health Rinse (1 liter), $4.50
Get $2.50 ECBs (Limit 2)

2 x Colgate MaxClean, SmartFoam, MaxFresh, (6 oz.) , $2.79
Get $2 ECBs (Limit 2)

Ban Invisible Solid, $2.99
Get $2 ECBs (Limit 1)

Select Beverages, 5/$5
Get $2 ECBs wyb 5 (Limit 1)
--Vitaminwater (20 oz.)

TOTAL: $26.04

-$2/1 Oral-B Pulsar Manual Toothbrush, exp. 7/31/11 (P&G 06/05/11)
-$2/1 Crest Rinse, exp. 7/31/11 (P&G 06/05/11)
-2 x $1/1 Select Colgate Toothpastes, exp. 6/30/11 (ALL YOU May’11)
-$0.75/1 Ban Solid, exp. 7/31/11 (SS 06/05/11)
-4 x $.55 /1 Vitamin Water tear pad Q's (I found these at a gas station last weekend)
- $5/$20 CVS Q HERE
- 9 ECB

= $3.09 OOP

Earn 3, 1.98, 2.50, 2, and 2 ECB

SMOKING HOT $5 Bounty Paper Towels Coupon!!!

2011-06-03T11:11:00.002-04:00

Keep an eye on Bounty's Facebook Page- they are giving away a $5 Bounty Coupon to the first 5,000 responders each Friday in June- they haven't announced the giveaway yet but I'm keeping them open on my screen!

FREE Garden Bar @ Ruby Tuesday!

2011-06-03T11:06:00.002-04:00

Happy Friday everyone! Head on over to Ruby Tuesday's Facebook Page and like them for a coupon for a free garden bar with any entree purchase, valid 6/2-6/16!

Super HOT Groupon deal- $10 for $20 to Old Navy!

2011-06-02T12:15:00.003-04:00

I am SOOOO stoked about this Groupon! It can be combined with other sales and offers! Check it out HERE!

HOT Printable Coupons on Facebook today

2011-05-23T16:13:00.002-04:00

"Like" Each of these pages to print the coupons- don't forget to hit your back button to print each one twice!

BOGO Lean Pockets

$1 off Ore-Ida Sweet Potato Fries (Go to the "Sweet Shout Out" Tab)

Romano's Macaroni Grill- Free Tapas! (Click on "The Dish" tab)

$1 off Fresh Express bagged salad

$5 off BIC Mark-It Permanent Markers (24 or 36 count size)

Enjoy!!!

Target deals I'm taking advantage of this week

2011-05-22T12:43:00.003-04:00

I still have my $20 Gift card from the recent Plum District deal, so I'm taking a trip to Target to grab some thing for our upcoming camping trip.

OFF! Clip-On Fan-Circulated Repellent $7.99
-$2/1 OFF! Clip-on Mosquito Repellent Starter 5-22-11 SS x6/25
-B1G1 FREE OFF! Clip-On Starter Kit
-$2/1 OFF! Clip-On Mosquito Repellant zip 30303
= $7.99 for 2 after a B1G1. If your store will allow, buy 2 use a B1G1 and a $2/1 to pay $5.99 for both

KC Masterpiece BBQ Sauce 18 oz Bottle $1.20 (PC thru 6/4)
-$1/1 KC Masterpiece Barbecue or Marinade 8.5 oz+ 5-15-11 SS x7/17
-$2/1 Pork Ribs wyb any KC Masterpiece BBQ Sauce
= .20 cents each after price cut and $1/1 coupon and if your store will allow also get $2 off Pork Ribs.
Hormel Always Tender Baby Back Ribs $2.49 lb- should pair nicely with the deal above

Aquafresh Extreme Clean .8oz Travel Size .97 – $1.07
-$1/1 Any Aquafresh Extreme Clean Product HERE
-.50/1 Aquafresh Extreme Clean Trial Size PRINT
= as low as FREE depending on coupon & price at your store

The Good Life Recipe Food For Cats .69-.79 (Regular Price)
-$1/1 The Goodlife Recipe food for cats 4-17-11 RP x6/11
=FREE after coupon

SPECIAL PURCHASE: FREE Kraft Marshmallows wyb (2) Select Honey Maid or Hershey’s*
*Honey Maid Graham Crackers 14.4 oz $2.99
*Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bars 6 pk $2.99
*FREE Item: Kraft 10 oz Marshmallows
-B2G1: FREE Kraft Marshmallows wyb Honey Made Grahams AND Hersheys Milk Chocolate 6 pk
-B2G1: FREE Kraft Marshmallows wyb Honey Maid AND Hershey’s Chocolate 6 pk. All You, June
-$1/3 Honey Maid Grahams, Kraft Marshmallows, AND Hershey’s Milk Chocolate 6 pk 5-15-11 SS
$.50 Hershey's Chocolate Target Web Q

Get all three items for $4.48 or $1.49 each after coupons

Kraft Deli Sandwich Cheese $2.45
- $1/2 Kraft cheese items Target Web Q

Corn on the Cob 4/$1

What I'm stocking up on this week at Publix

2011-05-22T11:58:00.002-04:00

Boca Burgers, 10 to 12 oz, BOGO $3.55
-$1/2 Boca Meatless Product Rolling
$1.28 per item after coupon.

Blue Diamond Almonds, 6 oz, BOGO $3.19
-$0.50/1 Blue Diamond Product

$1.10 each after coupon.

Kraft Barbecue Sauce, 16.25 to 18 oz, BOGO $1.33

67¢ per item.

Ronzoni Pasta, 12 to 16 oz, (excluding Lasagna, Jumbo Shells, Manicotti, Healthy Harvest, and Garden Delight), BOGO $1.39
-$1/2 Ronzoni Smart Taste Pasta Rolling
-$1/2 Ronzoni Smart Taste Pasta Rolling
-$1/2 Ronzoni Quick Cook Box Rolling
-$1/2 Ronzoni Quick Cooking Pasta Rolling
As low as 20¢ per box.

Wish-Bone Dressing, 16 oz, BOGO $2.65
- $1/2 Wishbone 5/22 RP
-$1/1 Wish Bone Salad Dressing 16 oz + Great Deals on Great Meals (exp 5/29/2011)

= FREE + $.35 0verage for two if your store allows

Pedigree Dentastix or Jumbone, 6 to 7.1 oz, BOGO $3
-$1/1 Pedigree any Dentastix Treats for Dogs 5/1/2011 RP Insert (exp 6/12/2011)
-$1/1 Pedigree Dentastix Treats for Dogs (IE) Rolling Printable (FF)
-$1/1 Pedigree Jumbone Treats for Dogs 4/17/2011 RP Insert (exp 5/29/2011)
-$1/1 Pedigree Dog Treats and Snacks (Dentabone, Jumbone Snack Food, Dentastix or Super Chew Treat, 3 to 21.12 oz or 1.39 lb pkg) Publix Who Loves You? Booklet

= FREE + $1.00 overage for two bags if your store allows

Chinet Napkins, 40 to 90 ct, BOGO $2.15
-$0.75/1 Chinet Napkins 4/10/2011 SS Insert (exp 7/3/2011)
-$1/1 Chinet item (sign up for mychinet.com emailed coupon) (exp 6/15/2011) thanks Ashley
As low as 8¢ per item after coupon.

Bic Multi-Purpose Lighter, 1 ea, BOGO $3.49
-$1/1 Bic Multi-Purpose or Position Lighter (IE) Rolling Printable (FF)
75¢ per item after coupon.

Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice Cocktail or Juice Drinks, 6 pk, 10 oz bottles or Cranenergy Drinks, 4 pk, 12 oz bottles, or Sparkling Cranberry, 4 pk, 8.4 oz can, save up to 3.99 ($2.00)
$0.55/1, $1/1 5/15 RP
$1/1 printable (zip 90210)
$1/1 Home Mailer
$1/1 Tearpad

$.99 each for the Sparkling Cranberry 4 packs

Kikkoman Seasoning packets 1 oz .89 (regular price x7/31/11)
Publix 6-pk Eggs .95
$1/1 printable
.55 off a carton of eggs wyb (1) Kikkoman product 1/23/11 RP
(some areas got $1 insert value!)
= .29 for 6-pk eggs and packet of Kikkoman Seasoning when you use one of each mfr, even better if you have the $1 off eggs wyb Kikkoman

My CVS Scenario week of 5/22/11

2011-05-22T10:08:00.002-04:00

I'm starting with $16 ECB's from last week.

Transaction #1:

Select Personal Care Products
Get $10 ECBs wyb $25 (Limit 1)

-Hawaiian Tropic Sunscreen $8.99 x 3 = $26.97

- $6 (3 x $2/1 Q from 5/22 SS)

-$16 ECB's

= $4.97 OOP

Earn $10 ECB

Transaction #2:

Trident Vitality or Stride Spark (9-14 ct.), $0.99
Get $1 ECBs (Limit 1)

1 x Revlon Nail Polish, $4.99
Get $4 ECBs (Limit 6)

2 x Irish Spring or Softsoap Body Wash (15-18 oz.) or Irish Spring Deodorant (2.7-3 oz.), 2/$7
Get $5 ECBs wyb 2 (Limit 1)

Select Suave Products
Get $3 ECBs wyb $10 (Limit 1)
5 x Body Wash, $2

- $2/1 Revlon Color Cosmetic Product, exp. 6-12-11 (SS 05/08/11)

- $4 (2 x $2 Irish Spring IP (no longer available)

- $4 (2 x B1G1 Suave Body Wash or Lotion, exp. 6-19-11 (RP 05/22/11)

- $1.50 (3 x $0.50/1 Suave Body Wash, exp. 6-19-11 (RP 05/22/11)

- $10 ECB

= $1.48 OOP

Earn 1, 4, 5, and 3 ECB

Transaction #3:

2 x Biore Cleansers or Pore Strips, $7.99
Get $5 ECBs wyb 2 (Limit 1)

1 x Revlon Nail Polish, $4.99
Get $4 ECBs (Limit 6)

- $1/1 Revlon Nail Enamel, exp. 6-30-11 (SS 04/10/11)

-$7.99 - FREE Biore Cleanser wyb Biore Pore Strip, exp. 5-31-11 (SS 03/06/11)

= $11.99

-5, 4, and 3 ECB

= $0 oop

Earn 4 and 5 ECB

I'm working on a scenario for the spend $30, earn a $10 gas gift card. I'll have that posted as soon as possible!

Heading to Wal-Mart today- here's what's on my list!

2011-05-19T15:30:00.003-04:00

DH has to pick up some mulch at Wal-Mart. When he extended the invite I decided to see if I could find any deals for our upcoming Memorial Day camping trip- I found lots! Here's what's on my list today:

KC Masterpiece Barbecue Sauce, $1.42
$1/1 KC Masterpiece Product, exp. 7-17-11 (SS 05/15/11)
$0.42 ea. after coupon!

Wilkinson Twin Blade Razors (4 Ct.), $0.97
$1/1 Wilkinson Sword Razor printable
FREE after coupon!

Tylenol Precise, $5.97
$5/1 Precise Product printable

Black Flag Fly Swatter or Paper, $0.98
Use $1/1 Black Flag Product, exp. 6/15/11 (RP 5/15/11)
FREE after Coupon!

Nescafe Tasters Choice Sticks, $1.12
Use B1G1 Nescafe Taster’s Choice
Pay $0.56 each after coupon wyb 2

Hershey’s Special Dark Bar, $0.50
Use B1G1 Hershey Dark Chocolate Bar WYB Hershey Chocolate Bar 5/1/2011 SS Insert (exp 6/17/2011)
Pay $0.25 each after coupon wyb 2 (mmm- Smores!)

Register on the 8th Continent site to receive a $2/1 8th Continent Soymilk printable! You can also print two $1/1 8th Continent Soymilk printables by clicking on Get Coupon in the upper right hand corner.

Walmart regularly has these priced at $2.73, so you can pick them up for just $0.73 with the coupon!

Free Samples!!

2011-05-18T16:19:00.003-04:00

Here's a new list of Free Samples compiled by Deal Seeking Mom!

Que Rica Vida: General Mills FREE Samples (Available Again!)

Emeril’s Essence Seasoning Packet FREE Sample

Soooo Sweet Stevia FREE Sample

Ultra-Gourmet Swiss Chocolate FREE Sample

Miracle Whip FREE Sample

Natural Persimmon Tea FREE Sample

Tea Chef Tea FREE Sample

Yogi Tea FREE Sample

Quest Bar Protein Bar FREE Sample

Atkins Quick-Start Kit With FREE Samples

My trip to CVS today- saved $89.55, spent $30.68

2011-05-17T15:23:00.003-04:00

I had a geat spur of the moment trip to CVS today over my lunch break! I strted with $21.99 ECB- here's the deals I took advantage of:

Finesse Hair Care Products, 2/$5
$1/1 Finesse Product, exp. 8-15-11 (SS 05/08/11)
$1/1 Finesse Product (ALL YOU May)
FREE After MIR Finesse Clean + Simple, exp. 12-31-11 (Peelie)
$2/1 Finesse Haircare MIR
FREE after coupon and MIR!

Speedstick Stainguard Deodorant (2.3-2.7 oz.), $2.99
Get $2 ECBs (Limit 1)
$0.50/1 Speed Stick or Lady Speed Stick, exp. 5-21-11 (SS 05/01/11)

Right Guard Sport, Xtreme, Total Defense, or Dry Idea deodorant (2-4 oz.) $2.99
Get $1 ECBs (Limit 2)
B1G1 Dry Idea or Right Guard Product, exp. 5-31-11 (RP 05/01/11)
$0.49 ea. wyb 2 after coupon and ECBs!

Buy (2) Neutrogena Baby Sunblock Stick ( SPF 60+) or Age Shield Sunblock at $9.99
Use (2) $2/1 Neutrogena Suncare or Sunless Tanning Product printable
Use $3/$15 Skin Care Product CRT
$1.49 ea. after coupons, CRT and ECBs!

Scott Choose-A-Size (6 pk. Mega Rolls), 2/$10
Get $2 ECBs wyb 2 (Limit 1)
$1.50/6 Rolls Scotts Naturals Towels printable
$1/6 Scott Naturals Paper Towels, exp. 5-29-11 (SS 04/17/11 #2)
$1 off Scott Paper Towels, exp. 5-15-11 (SS 04/03/11)
As low as $2.50 ea. wyb 2 after coupon and ECBs!

I also took advantage of a great Physicians Formula deal- several products are currently $6 off, and I had a few $5/1 Manufacturer's Q's. I was able to get bonus packs of my absolute favorite tinted moisturizer which is normally $15.49 for $4.49 each, or $2.25 a tube!

My Meal Plan for the Week

2011-05-09T16:23:00.002-04:00

Today: Pesto Shrimp, Salad

Tuesday: Chili, Cornbread

Wednesday: Tortellini with Peas and Ham, Salad

Thursday: Breakfast for Dinner (Eggs, Sausage, Toast, & Smoothies)

Friday: Homemade Pizza

Saturday: Lemon-Broccoli Rice with Chicken

Dining in May- Day 9 (Don't forget about the $25 Olive Garden Giftcard Giveaway!)

2011-05-09T14:43:00.002-04:00

I'll be totally honest- I have been TERRIBLE this month! :(

I've been feeling pretty exhausted lately and just haven't felt much like cooking- which has led me to not only eat dinner out more ofter, but lunches too. I cooked a couple of times last week but not nearly as much as I should have. I'm getting right back on track today though!

I want to know how you are doing! Every comment you leave on the Dining In blog posts throughout the month will earn you another entry into the $25 Olive Garden gift card giveaway. On the 1st of June one lucky reader will win the gift card so they can celebrate on me!

You don't have to be perfect to win! Even if you slip up and end up eating out, just get back on track! Keep track of how much you spend though, so you can see what a substantial savings you'll have at the end of the month.

My CVS Scenario week of 5/8/11

2011-05-08T14:11:00.002-04:00

I currently have $25.99 ECB

Transaction #1:
Spend $12 get $4 ECB on select household products

Glade Sense & Spray $7
Ziploc bags x 2 = $6

Spend $15 get $7 ECB on Revlon

Pressed Powder- $9.99
Lipstick $7.99

Duncan Hines Brownie mix x 2 @ $.83 = $1.66

Carefree Pantyliners 20-22ct $.99

Kelloggs corn flakes x 2 @ $1.97 = $3.94

= $37.57

- $1.25/2 Ziploc bags 04-03-11 SS
- $3/1 Glade Sense & Spray Starter Kit, any - Parade, May 8,2011
- 2 x $. 50 / 1 Duncan Hines Brownies HERE
- $1/2 Kellogg Cereal HERE
- $1/1 Carefree Q 5/8 SS
- 2 x $2/1 Revlon Color Cosmetic Product (exp 6/12/2011) 5/8/2011 SS Insert

= $26.32
- $25.99 ECB
= $.33 oop

Earn 7 and 4 ECB

Transaction #2:

Get 3 ECB wyb $10 worth of Covergirl

Covergirl Natureluxe Silk Foundation $13.99
-3/10 Cosmetic Purchase CRT
- $1/1 Natureluxe Q
-7 ECB
= $2.99 OOP

Earn 3 ECB

Wal-Mart deals week of 5/8

2011-05-08T13:52:00.003-04:00

Here's a list of things I'll be stocking up on at Wal-Mart this week. You can find a full list of all of the current hot deals at Wal-Mart HERE

Scott Naturals Toilet Tissue (4 Mega Rolls, 205.2 Sq. Ft.), $2.68
$1.50/1 Scott Naturals printable
$1.16 ea. after coupon!

Noxema Bikini Razors, $1.97
$2/1 Noxema Spa Shave 4-Blade Shaver 4-Pack, Super Smooth Triple Blade Shaver 4-Pack or 8 Pack, Premium-Pivot Twin Blade 12-Pack OR Bikini Shaver 3-Pack, exp. 6-30-11 (RP 05/01/11)
FREE after coupon!

Similac Sensitive, $3.84
$5/1 Similac Product, exp. 5-31-11 (SS 04/03/11)
FREE after Coupon + $1.16 in Overage!

McCormick Taco Seasoning, $0.52
$0.75/1 McCormick Spice, Herb, Extract or Food Color (RP 4/10/11)
FREE after coupon!

Ivory Soap (3 ct.), $0.97
$1/1 Ivory Bar, Body Wash, or Liquid Hand Soap (P&G 05/01/11)
FREE after coupon!

Fresh Pork Tenderloin, $2.97/lb

Purex Baby Laundry Detergent, $2.97
$1/1 Purex Laundry Detergent, exp. 6-12-11 (RP 05/01/11)
$1.97 ea. after coupon!

Suavitel Fabric Softener, $0.87
$0.50/1 Suavitel Liquid Fabric Conditioner, exp. 5-28-11 (SS 05/01/11)
$0.37 ea. after coupon!

Gain Fabric Softener Sheets (40 Ct.), $1.87
$1/1 Gain Detergent or Fabric Enhancer, exp. 6-30 (P&G 05/01/11)
$1/1 Gain Fabric Softener or Sheets, exp. 5-31-11 (RP 04/17/11 #2)
$0.87 ea. after coupon!

What I'm stocking up on at Publix- week of 5/8

2011-05-08T10:07:00.002-04:00

You can find the full ads with match-ups HERE.

Deals from the current Yellow Advantage Buy Flyer- Grilling Favorites (valid 5/7-5/27)

Haagen-Dazs 14 oz, 3/$10
-$1/1 Haagen-Dazs All You Apr 2011 (exp 5/31/2011)
= $2.33 each

$2/2 Scrubbing Bubbles Products
-$3/2 Scrubbing Bubbles Products All You May 2011 (exp 7/31/2011)

Edy’s Slow Churned Shakes and Edy’s Smoothies 1 ct, 2/$3
-$1/1 Edy’s Slow Churned Shakes or Edy’s Smoothies 4/17/2011 RP Insert (exp 6/12/2011)
Just 50¢ per item!

$1/1 Hot Shot or Cutter Item 4 to 18 oz
-$1/1 Hot Shot Product (exp 6/2/2011)
-$1/1 Cutter Insect Repellent Product Rolling
As low as 79¢ per item!

$.55/1 Windex Multi-Surface 26 oz
-$0.55/1 Windex Product 4/3/2011 SS Insert (exp 5/15/2011)
These are BOGO this week – they will be as low as 60¢ each!

B2G1 Martha White Muffin Mixes 7 to 7.4 oz
-$1/4 Martha White Baking Mixes 8/8/2010 RP Insert
Corn Muffin mix is just 50¢ so these will be as low as 17¢ each after coupons!

From the weekly ad that ends 5/11:

Oscar Mayer Meat Wieners, Regular, Selects Premium, or Bun Length, 16 oz (excluding Angus), BOGO $3.29
-$1/1 Oscar Mayer Selects Hot Dogs 4/10/2011 SS Insert (exp 6/5/2011)
65¢ per package after coupon!

Windex Glass Cleaner Original Or With Vinegar or Multi-Surface, 26 oz, BOGO $3.39
-$0.55/1 Windex Product 4/3/2011 SS Insert (exp 5/15/2011)
-$1/2 Windex Glass Cleaner 4/3/2011 SS Insert (exp 5/15/2011)
-$.55/1 Publix Q from the yellow advantage buy flyer

Get these for $.60 each when you combine the $.55 Man Q with the $.55 Publix Q

Purina Tidy Cats Cat Box Filler 10 lb bag, BOGO $2.39
-$1/1 Purina Tidy Cat 5/1/2011 SS Insert (exp 8/1/2011)
-$1/1 Tidy Cats Brand Cat Litter Rolling

20¢ per item!

Kraft Philadelphia Cooking Creme, 10 oz, 2/$4
-$1.50/1 Philadelphia Cooking Creme 3/6/2011 SS Insert (exp 5/31/2011)
-$1.50/1 Philadelphia Cooking Creme blinkie (exp 5/31/2011)

-$1.50 off chicken wyb Philadelphia Cooking Creme peelie (exp 6/30/2011)

$.50 each, plus you can score some cheap/free chicken!

Eight O’Clock Coffee 11 to 12 oz (excluding Decaf), BOGO $7.79
-$2/2 Eight O’Clock Coffee Rolling
-$1/1 Eight O’Clock Coffee Rolling
-$2/2 Eight O’Clock Coffee Rolling
Just $2.90 a bag after coupons!

Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables, 7.5 to 32 oz pkg, Corn on the Cob, 4 or 12 ct, 50% off
-$1/2 Birds Eye or Birds Eye Steamfresh varieties PUBLIX coupon Spring Family Gatherings Booklet (exp 5/15)
-$0.35/1 Birds Eye Steamfresh Lightly Sauced (IE) Rolling Printable (FF)

King’s Hawaiian Mini Snacker Rolls, 8.8 oz, 2/$3
-$1/2 King Hawaiian Snacker Rolls PUBLIX Spring Family Gatherings Booklet (exp 5/15/2011)

- 2 x $.40/1 Tearpad Q

= $1.20 for 2

Publix Deli Blue Cheese Wedge, 4.4 oz, $2.99

Try Nature's Variety Raw Diet for Pets Free!

2011-05-03T15:59:00.003-04:00

Nature's Variety is offering a coupon for $5 off any size of their raw frozen pet diet for free with a $5 purchase. Sign up at the link above to get your coupon now!

$47.75 Deposit to the Cruise Fund

2011-05-02T19:43:00.003-04:00

After adding up all of the savings on my receipts from last week, I was able to make another $47.75 deposit into the cruise fund. Here's the breakdown of where we stand:

Amount needed: $ 3,238.00
Amount "found"
Deposit #1: $ 183.33
Deposit #2: $112.00
Deposit #3:$59.36
Today's Deposit: $47.75
Remaining: $ 2,894.92

Dining in in May- and a $25 Olive Garden Giftcard giveaway!

2011-05-02T19:03:00.003-04:00

You may remember a while that I did a segment on no dining out for a month. The results were astonishing! We saved nearly $1000 compared to the previous month just by preparing meals at home and bringing our lunches to work instead of eating out!

This month, I invite you to join me. Whether you shop with coupons or not, this is a fantastic way to jump start your savings, or just free up some cash for something that you really want. Start by taking a look at your bank account and see what you spent on dining out last month. Then create a meal plan based on what you have on hand each week. Make sure you take a little time to prep your meals, whether that means a little time on your day off putting everything together so you just have to pop it in the oven, or utilizing your slow cooker so you can just walk in at the end of the day to a meal that's ready to eat. Some people find it easier to prep several meals in advance, then store them in the fridge or freezer and re-heat them throughout the week.

Whatever your method is, share it here! Every comment you leave on the Dining In blog posts throughout the month will earn you another entry into the $25 Olive Garden gift card giveaway. On the 1st of June one lucky reader will win the gift card so they can celebrate on me!

You don't have to be perfect to win! Even if you slip up and end up eating out, just get back on track! Keep track f how much you spend though, so you can see what a substantial savings you'll have at the end of the month.

Good luck everyone! Can't wait to hear how much you save this month! :)

My trip to CVS today- and another $59.36 for the cruise fund!

2011-04-26T20:55:00.004-04:00

I started out with $11.99 ECB before my trip today- I didn't have an actual scenario planned out, but here's the deals I took advantage of:

Blink Tears (0.5 oz.) or Gel Tears (0.34 oz.), $7.99
Get $7.99 ECBs (Limit 1)
$1/1 Blink Tears or GelTears Eye Drops, exp. 5-9-11 (SS 04/03/11)
$4/1 peelie on some packages

I was lucky enough to find a package with the $4/1 peelie, so this was a $4 money maker!

All Crest 3D White Paste, Brush or Rinse
Get $5 ECBs wyb $10 (Limit 2)
3 x Oral-B 3D White Pulsar Advanced Vivid Toothbrush @ 3.49 = $10.47
$2/1 Select Oral-B Toothbrushes, exp. 4-30-11 (P&G 04/03/11)
B1G1 Oral-B Advantage or Select Toothbrush, exp. 4-30-11 (RP 03/13/11)

FREE after coupons and ECBs!

B1G1 Schick Hydro 3 or Hydro 5 Razor, psa $9.39 (Limit 4 Total)
$3/1 Shick Hydro Razor printable

$1.69 ea. after coupon

Physicians Formula get $3 ECB wyb $10 limit 1

I got the Healthy Wear SPF 50 Tinted Moisturizer (LOVE THIS) which was $15.49

- $5 IP HERE

$7.49 after coupon and ECB’s- still pricey but I love this stuff so it’s worth it. J

Clean & Clear get $5 eb wyb $15 limit 1
warning: clean & clear items with reduced price "wyb 2 or more" not included

-B1G1 Clean & Clear Body Wash, up to $5.99 (exp 5/15/2011) 3/27/2011 SS

- $2/1 IP HERE

Body wash x 2 @ $6.29

Scrub $5.79

Total for all 3 after Q’s and ECB’s = $5.38 or $1.79 each

My total savings for the day - $59.36 – plus I earned $20.99 ECB= success!

Another $112 deposit to the cruise fund!

2011-04-21T19:36:00.001-04:00

I was able to make another $112 deposit into the cruise fund this week. Carnival implemented a system where you can enter your Future Cruise Certificate (that I told you about HERE) online vs. having to mail them in certified, saving me around $6 in postage.

$6 - Savings @ Tijuana Flats (with the BOGO Entree Q from last week)
$6 - Savings from not having to mail the FCC Certified
$100- On board credit earned from Future Cruise Certificate submitted this week

Amount needed: $ 3,238.00
Amount "found"
Deposit #1: $ 183.33
Today's deposit: $112.00
Remaining: $ 2,942.67

FREE Entree @ Tijuana Flats today only!!

2011-04-21T10:31:00.003-04:00

It pays to like Tijuana Flats on Facebook - FREE ENTREE with coupon when you like their page!!! Just print it and bring it in to any Tijuana Flats. Valid today only!

HOT Groupon- $8 for One Large Any-Topping Pizza at Domino's Pizza (Up to $20 Value)!

2011-04-20T10:36:00.002-04:00

I SO wish I had a Dominos Pizza by my house- there's a super Hot deal on Groupon today - $8 for any Large Pizza, up to a $20 value!

The Fine Print

Expires May 19, 2011
Limit 3 per person. Limit 1 per order. Must order online. Must provide email address upon redemption to receive unique PIN and URL; you will not be added to Domino's mailing list. Carryout only. Valid at all US locations except those in Alaska or Hawaii. Not valid with other offers. Tax not included.

You can check out the deal HERE. (If you haven't signed up for Groupon yet, go HERE and sign up now!)

Check your email for Free eos hand lotion!

2011-04-20T10:29:00.002-04:00

If you entered the Facebook giveaway for a Free eos Hand Lotion check your email- I got an email today that I won this week!

If you haven't entered yet, head to their Facebook Page to "Like" them and enter now!

First Deposit into the Vacation Fund!!

2011-04-20T10:20:00.002-04:00

It's been a pretty good couple of days for us! So far, I've been able to come up with $183.33 in "found" money to deposit into the vacation fund. Here's the breakdown:

Trip to Publix #1: Savings $26.34

Trip to Publix #2: Savings $6.99

Check from hubby doing side work: $150.00

Total: $183.33

Amount needed: $ 3,238.00
Amount "found" $ 183.33
Remaining: $ 3,054.67

Check your Kraft First Taste Accounts for two free product offers!

2011-04-19T11:46:00.002-04:00

Check your Kraft First Taste accounts- I just logged in and had two great offers- a free bag of KRAFT Shredded Cheese with a Touch of PHILLY (up to $3.87) and (1) 4-pack of BREAKSTONE'S Cottage Cheese OR TWO (2) packages of BREAKSTONE'S 100 Calorie COTTAGE DOUBLES (up to $3.20)!

Receive a coupon* for ONE (1) FREE pack of any KRAFT Shredded Cheese with a Touch of PHILLY (up to $3.87). These natural shreds have a touch of PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese added to them. So now you can add an extra twist to your favorite recipes that will make them taste creamy, cheesy and more irresistible than ever. Add more possibilities to your mealtime with all 5 flavors Three Cheese, Mozzarella, Mexican Four Cheese, Triple Cheddar and Italian Five Cheese.

*All coupons are delivered in 4 to 6 weeks and are offered while supplies last. Offer expires 7/31/2011. Up to $3.87.

Receive a coupon* for ONE (1) 4-pack of BREAKSTONE'S Cottage Cheese OR TWO (2) packages of BREAKSTONE'S 100 Calorie COTTAGE DOUBLES (up to $3.20). With 8 grams of protein each, BREAKSTONE'S combines luscious fruit with rich and creamy cottage cheese in a snack that will help satisfy your hunger for a healthy and delicious treat. BREAKSTONE'S 100 Calorie COTTAGE DOUBLES have 5 varieties with fruit on the side, and 100 Calorie 4-packs come in 4 varieties that are already mixed for you. Your search for the perfect snack has ended – now find a spoon and dig in.

*All coupons are delivered in 4 to 6 weeks and are offered while supplies last. Offer expires 7/31/2011. Up to $3.20.

My Meal Plan for the Week

2011-04-18T15:43:00.003-04:00

I'm stopping by to pick up a few things at Publix tonight. This meal plan is based on the things I have on hand, and about $20 worth of produce, etc.

Monday: Tortellini Alfredo, Salad

Tuesday: Buffalo Chicken sandwiches, fries

Wednesday: Sauteed Scallops, Salad, mashed potatoes

Thursday: Chicken Pasta w/ Broccoli, Salad

Friday: Sweet & Sour Shrimp, Rice

Saturday: BBQ Chicken, potato salad

Where I've been, and what I'm doing, and a little something for you!

2011-04-18T10:00:00.003-04:00

Some of you may have noticed that I haven't been posting as frequently as I was. I am definitely not trying to make excuses, but life has just been c-r-a-z-y lately. Between work and my social life and my 6 furry babies I just have not has a lot of time to breathe, much less post.

No excuses though- I'm going to keep the good deals and good times coming. As with everything in life, when you fall off track for a bit you just have to get back on and keep on truckin', which is exactly what I'm going to do!

On that note, there's a few new developments I want to let you all know about. One is a trip that we've booked and are saving for, the second two are giveaways!

I booked a cruise for hubby and I to go on in September. We LOVE cruising! Not only is it relaxing and an amazing way to see the world, it's also one of the most economical ways to vacation. The total price of the cruise for both of us was $1,548.00. This is for 7 nights on the Carnival Dream on September 3, with a balcony room. On a previous cruise that I went on in February, I participated in the Carnival Future Vacation program. Basically you put down $100 deposit towards any future cruise, which you apply towards the price of the next cruise. You also get an on-board credit in a certain amount which is based on the length of the cruise you book ($50 for a 3-5 day cruise, $75 for a 6 day cruise, $100 for a 7-9 day cruise, and $200 for a cruise 12 days or longer). You have up to 2 years from the date of purchase to redeem the certificate. For us, it was like getting a $100 on board credit for free!

In addition to that perk, the cruise includes all the food you can eat, and travels to Cozumel, Mexico, Belize city, Roatan, Honduras, and Costa Maya, Mexico. I don't know of any land-based vacation that includes all of that for around $100 per person a day!

Hubby and I both decided that it would be great to see how much of the cost we can offset of this vacation by doing several things to bring in some cash- (1) Most obvious- couponing (2) Selling items we don't really need want on Ebay and/or at garage sales, etc. (3) cutting back on extras like eating out and unnecessary purchases.

I devised a budget for each category of this vacation, which we're going to do our best to stick by. Here's the plan:

Cruise Cost- $1,548.00
Parking at the Pier- $140.00 (unfortunately there's no way to get around this)
Excursions- $300.00
Pre-Cruise shopping- $100.00
Tips- $200.00 (the cruise line automatically charges $10 per person, per day, which you can edit at your discretion. We typically like to tip our waiters & room stewards a little extra)
Shopping on the trip- $200
Drinks on the ship/Eating out on Shore- $500
Pet Sitting- $250

Total: $3,238.00

We have until June 10 to pay off the cruise, and we set sail on September 3. I don't know for sure if we'll be able to cover the entire cost of the cruise by couponing, but we are sure going to make a valiant effort to pay as little out of pocket as possible! I'll be keeping track of every deposit I make into the savings account here on my blog. The plan is to deposit the amounts that I save at the stores, to see just how much we can come up with. In addition, any rebate checks, gifts, or otherwise found money will go into the pot as well!

Now that you've listed to me ramble on about my upcoming vacation (can you tell I'm a little excited?), I've got some very exciting news for you!!! In an effort to celebrate all of you wonderful readers, I'm going to be doing TWO giveaways very soon! The wonderful folks at CVS donated a $50 gift card for one of my lucky readers/followers, and I've also got a $25 Olive Garden to give away in May when we do no dining out again!! There will be a lot more information on both of these giveaways very soon, but in the meantime spread the word to anyone you think might like to win one of these great prizes! Keep checking back here for more info!

Wishing you all an awesome Frugal, Fun and Fabulous week!!

Tina

HOT Old Navy swimsuit deals this Saturday!

2011-04-14T18:25:00.003-04:00

This Saturday, 4/16, Old Navy will have $8 Cropped Cardis for Women and Girls! Pairs perfectly with Sun Dresses! In-store only.

Another bonus? You got it! Wake up and dive into a U.S. store from 7am- 11am to enjoy a super Swimsuit sale! 60% off Swimsuits for the whole family! What a Saturday! Check your local store for hours.

I'm headed up near an Old Navy Saturday morning and I SO might have to make a pit-stop- look how cute that bikini top is! :)

Legal stuff:

One Day Wonder: Valid 4/16. In-Store Only. While supplies last. Select styles only. Limit 5 per customer.

Swimsuit Sale: Check your local store for opening hours (not all stores will open at 7am). Offer valid in the U.S. only. While supplies last. Swim sale excludes rashguards, cover-ups and clearance. Limit of 5 per customer for the One Day Wonder. No adjustments on previous purchases. Cannot be combined with other offers or discounts including Gap Inc. employee discount.

FREE full Size Essence of Beauty Product @ CVS!

2011-04-13T12:02:00.002-04:00

Go Here to Like the CVS Beauty club and get a coupon emailed to you for a FREE Essence of Beauty Anti-Bac product (have your Extracare Card Handy- you'll need the number)! Hurry- offer ends 4/5/11 @ 11:59p EST!

Another Amazon Giftcard Deal!

2011-04-08T20:21:00.002-04:00

Write 5 Qualifying Reviews of your home or kitchen appliances and Get a $5 Amazon.com Gift Card from Viewpoints!

With all of these Amazon Giftcard deals I will be getting a huge discount on the digital camera I want!

Another $5 any purchase at Petsmart!

2011-04-05T11:52:00.003-04:00

If you’re a Pet Perks Member you can print a Pet Smart Coupon for $5 off any Pet Smart Purchase! This is awesome if you have pets, you should be able to save on something you need or even pick up some treats or a small toy for Free!

Just Sign Up for Pet Perks (Free to Join) and once you are logged in look under the coupon tab to print your coupon.

Enter to win a FREE EOS Hand Lotion!

2011-04-05T11:06:00.002-04:00

Right now you can sign up to win one of 5,000 EOS Hand Lotions. They're doing random drawings every Moniday through May and all you have to do is enter your info once to be enetered in all of the drawings! Good luck!

Hurry- there's still some free samples of Tide Stain Release!

2011-04-05T10:37:00.002-04:00

Head over to Tide's facebook page if you haven't already to get your free sample! Hurry- these probably won't last long!

Hot Two FREE Suave Professionals Products!

2011-04-04T09:48:00.002-04:00

Suave is offering FREE Suave Professionals coupons. All you have to do is watch the short videos and pick the correct answer. 4 right answers get you 2 free products! You can see your current prize by clicking on the ”Your Progress” link at the top. Once you get to the prize you want, click the “Claim your coupon” link!

Free Sample Sunday (5 new free samples!)

2011-04-03T17:16:00.002-04:00

1. Breathe Right Advanced Nasal Strips

2. Neilmed Sinus Rinse Bottle with Two Packets

3. Purex Complete with Zout

4. Wellness Pet Food

5. Fiber Choice

My CVS Scenario week of 4/3/11

2011-04-03T10:18:00.002-04:00

The Winter 2011 extrabucks were issues this week, so make sure you check your account and www.CVS.com or scan your card at the coupon machine when you go to the store.

I currently have $20.50 ECB.

Transaction #1:

Complete multi-purpose solution 12 oz $8.99 get $8.99 eb Limit 1
-$1 complete solution 4/3/11 ss

Gum eez-thru flossers 75-150 ct $2 get $2 eb Limit 2 x 2 =$4.00

Right guard total defense body wash 13.5 oz $3.88 get $3 eb Limit 1 x 2

-bogo Right Guard Bodywash or Deodorant WYB Right Guard Product, up to $4.49 (exp 4/10/11) 3/13/2011 RP (You'll get these for $.44 each with the BOGO Q!

Gold Bond body wash 12.5 oz $5.88 get $3 eb Limit 1

-$2 Gold Bond body wash 4/3/11 ss ($.88 after Q and ECB's)

Newspaper- $1

Total after Q's- $20.75 + Tax
- $20.50 ECB
= $.25 + Tax
Earn $8.99, $4, $3, and $3 ECB

Transaction #2:

L'oreal Cosmetics get $3 ECB wyb $10 Limit 2 (excludes eye shadow and clearance items)
infallible le rouge lipstick $7.99
infallible lip gloss, true match foundation, powder, blush, or concealer $6.99
colour riche lip color or lip liner (excludes anti-age and collagen) $4.99
-$2 L'Oreal Perfecting Base by Studio Secrets Professional (exp 4/17/2011) 2/20/2011 RP
-$2 L'Oreal Cosmetic Face Product
-$2 L'Oreal Powder, Blush, Concealer or Primer (exp 5/1/2011) 3/6/2011 RP

Here's my scenario: Buy two true match foundations @ $6.99, use two $2/1 Q's, and get each for $3.50 after ECB's and Q's.

Total after Q's = $9.98
- $8.99 ECB
= $.99
Earn 3 ECB
Have $4, $3, $3, and $3 ECB for next week

My meal plan for the week

2011-04-03T09:22:00.002-04:00

Here's my meal plan for the week. We successfully cleared space in the fridge/freezer/pantry the least couple of weeks so I'm ready to do a pretty big shopping trip today. Here's whats on the list, combining what's on sale and what I have on hand:

Sunday: Cajun Pasta, salad

Monday: Vegetarian Chili (made with Gardein Protien, which are BOGO @ Publix this week)

Tuesday: Marinated grilled shrimp, spring risotto

Wednesday: Honey Pecan pork chops, mashed sweet potatoes, broccoli

Thursday: Stuffed shells (Ryan's day to cook), salad, bread sticks

Friday: Chicken and Asparagus rice dinner, salad

Saturday: Calzone, salad

Free Organize in Style coupon booklet w/ over $35 in savings!

2011-03-31T13:27:00.001-04:00

The Organize in Style booklet has over $35 in P&G savings- you can get your free copy here!

FREE Purex Crystals from Target

2011-03-31T10:07:00.002-04:00

There is a great deal at Target this week that you don’t want to miss. Purex Crystals are on Price Cut for just $2.99. Here’s how to get them for Free:

Purex Crystals, $2.99 on Price Cut
$1/1 Purex Complete Crystals Fabric Softener Target printable
$2/1 Purex Complete Crystals Softener, exp. 4-30-11 (RP 03/13/11)
FREE after Coupons!

My CVS Plan for the week of 3/27/11

2011-03-30T11:59:00.002-04:00

I currently have 10, 4, and 5 ECB. My Beauty Club account balance is $90.18, so I should earn another 5 ECB for the next $50 spent today as well (Remember, this is BEFORE coupons- I didn't actually spend $50 oop to earn this!). Here's my plan:

Transaction #1:

Clean & Clear body wash 16 oz $2.99 x 2 = $5.98

-$2 Clean and Clear Product x 2

Physicians Formula Organic Wear jumbo mascara $9.99 get $7 eb Limit 1

Physicians Formula cosmetics (prices start at $5.99-$6.19) get $7 eb Limit 1

Skintimate moisturizing cream shave or gel 6-10 oz $3.19 get $2.50 eb Limit 1

= $25.16 (Appx- depending on price of Physicians Formula cosmetic I buy)

- $4 C&C Q's

- 10, 4 and 5 ECB

= $2.16 OOP

Earn 7, 7, $2.50, and 5 (beauty club) ECB

SUPER HOT Groupon deal- pay $7 for a $15 Ebay GC!!

2011-03-29T16:03:00.003-04:00

This is an AMAZING deal- I'll probably use it towards coupons to save even more cash! If you don't have a Groupon account yet sign up HERE!

Click HERE to check it out!

The Fine Print

Limit 1 per person. Limit 1 per order. Valid only on eBay.com in the U.S. Must have a registered eBay and PayPal account. Credit card info may be required at checkout. Not valid towards service fees. No cash back. May apply value toward tax & shipping. May use over multiple visits. See here for eBay terms and FAQs.

Petsmart- FREE Royal Canin Selective Discovery box

2011-03-29T14:45:00.002-04:00

PetSmart is offering a GREAT freebie to PetPerks members. Members can print a coupon for a FREE Royal Canin Selective Discovery box (priced up to $3.99). If you haven’t joined yet, you can register here.

My (semi-disastrous) Wal-Mart Couponing Trip

2011-03-28T14:47:00.004-04:00

I headed over to Wal-Mart Sunday night to do some deals. I don't shop there very frequently but there were quite a few really good deals I wanted to get, plus I was in desperate need of vacuum cleaner bags and Wal-Mart is one of the only places that sells the ones I need.

All in all I made out pretty well. I did have a bit of trouble with the $3/1 Gain Q's. Wal-Mart sells, the 40ct box for $1.87, and because the coupon does not specify a size limit it can be used on those. According to Wal-Mart's coupon policy the overage applies towards the balance of my transaction. Well, the cashier went into a bit of a tailspin over this, had to call a manager, and held up the loooong line for 10 minutes until the manager arrived. The manager told her I was right, and that not only does the overage apply, that she would have needed to give me cash back if I had only bought the dryer sheets.

After all was said and done, I got what I came there for. You can go here for my earlier posting on the matchups. (Be warned- the scotchbrite Q's beeped and did not go through! I did puchase 10 but they are going to be returned so I'm leaving them out of this scenario) Here's what I did:

Gain 40 ct Dryer Sheets x 4 (this is the limit stated on the coupon per transaction) @ $1.87 = $7.48

Purex Dryer Sheets (2 ct- found in the travel size aisle) x 3 @ $.97 = $2.91

Viva Paper Towel Roll- $1.97

Salonpas Pain Patches x 2 @ $4.12 = $8.24 (Used 2 x $3/1 IP's)

Rubbermaid Containers x 2 @ $3.77 = $7.54

Vacuum Bags- $ 6.28

Arm & Hammer Travel Size x 2 @ $.97 = $1.94

Sensodyne Travel Size x 2 @.97 = $1.94

Cremel Creamer $1.98 (used $1.50/1 from latest All You Mag)

Chapstick Clearanced to $.50

Total before coupons- $40.78
Total after coupons- $13.68

I have more of the Gain Q's that I need to use, meaning I'll probably make another trip tonight. Hopefully the same cashier is working so I don't have to go through the headache again- wish me luck!

Hot Tide & Pantene Freebies on Facebook Tonight!

2011-03-28T14:45:00.002-04:00

Tide Stain Release is going to give away 100,000 FREE samples starting at 9 pm EST tonight! Make sure you like Tide on Facebook so you are ready to request your samples.

Pantene is going to give away 8000 Pantene shampoo and conditioner samples starting at 6 pm EST. Make sure you like Pantene on Facebook so you are ready to request your samples.

Thanks Couponing to Disney!

2011-03-25T19:29:00.002-04:00

Bath & Body Free 2 oz. Country Chic Body Lotion

This Friday & Saturday ONLY try Country Chic Body Lotion for Free.

$3.50 Value (NO Purchase Necessary!)

GO HERE to print coupon!!

Offer valid in stores and online.

Use Coupon Code: FBS113664 when going to Bath & Body Works on Line.

PS- Nur said this smells good!! :)

Samples available: Head & Shoulders Itchy Scalp Care with Eucalyptus

2011-03-25T19:21:00.003-04:00

Viewpoints has partnered with Head & Shoulders to bring you a great offer. They are looking for your feedback on Head & Shoulders Itchy Scalp Care with Eucalyptus. They have a limited number of sachets available, act now for your chance to receive one.





There is absolutely NO COST to you. After you've tried it out, all they ask is that you post an honest review on Viewpoints and share your experience with your family and friends.

Apply for your chance to try Head & Shoulders Itchy Scalp Care with Eucalyptus now!

Supply is limited so apply today!

Suave Professionals Giveaway @ 12p ET today!

2011-03-24T11:24:00.001-04:00

Hey Everyone- head on over to Suave's FB page and "like" them- then check back at 12p ET and go to the Giveaway Tab! They have a limited number of Suave Professionals Samples to giveaway. Good Luck!

Free Chips & Queso at Chili's March 24-27

2011-03-23T21:52:00.001-04:00

Click HERE for your coupon!

Thanks D! :)

Day #3- feeding two people for a week for $20 total

2011-03-23T21:15:00.006-04:00

Another fantastic day! We've both stayed on track like champs! Today on the menu- BBQ Pork and Potato Salad.

For the Pork, I actually started it yesterday. I loaned a friend my crockpot and realized there was no way I'd be able to have it done it time for dinner tonight if I started it after I got home since it has to cook so long.

I started by sprinkling some garlic and onion powder on the meat, covering it with foil then baked it at 450 degrees for an hour. I put some water in the pan to be sure it didn't dry out as well.

After an hour, repelenished the water and lowered the oven temp to 250 degrees, and let it cook for another 4 hours, then refrigerated it overnight.

Today when I got home from work, I put the pork back in the oven at 350 and let it go another two hours. It was perfect! I have tried to make pot roasts in the oven before and they came out tough and dry. This roast was just right. :)

I divided the meat, setting aside enough for Pork Tacos later this week, and shredding the rest with two forks. I coated the shredded meat with BBQ sauce, and put it back in the warm oven while I prepped the potato salad (recipe modified slightly):

Ingredients

4 potatoes
4 eggs
1/2 stalk celery, chopped
1/4 cup sweet relish
1 clove garlic, minced
2 tablespoons prepared mustard
1/2 cup mayonnaise
salt and pepper to taste

Directions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add potatoes and cook until tender but still firm, about 15 minutes; drain and chop.
Place eggs in a saucepan and cover with cold water. Bring water to a boil; cover, remove from heat, and let eggs stand in hot water for 10 to 12 minutes. Remove from hot water; peel and chop.
In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, eggs, celery, sweet relish, garlic, mustard, mayonnaise and salt and pepper. Gently mix together and serve warm.

Take a break from aftertaste with a FREE sample.

2011-03-23T14:10:00.001-04:00

Add nothing but taste to your morning cup of coffee with a FREE pint of Breve Crème coffee creamer, brought to you by your friends at Vocalpoint.

http://gotaf.socialtwist.com/redirect?l=lrip

I've got $4.72 left to spend for the week- here's what I'm buying @ Publix with the new ad starting 3/24 (3/23 for some)

2011-03-23T13:25:00.003-04:00

From the weekly ad:

GE Reveal Light Bulbs, 4 ct pkg, 2/$5

-$1.50/1 GE Light Bulb Pack TARGET coupon Target.com (exp 3/26/2011)

From the Yellow Advantage Buy Flyer (Exp. 3/25):

Mrs. T’s Pierogies 12 to 16 oz, 2/$4
-$1/1 Mrs. T’s Pierogies

French’s Worcestershire Sauce, 10 oz, 99¢
- -$0.75/1 French’s Worcestershire Sauce 1/23/2011 SS Insert (exp 3/31/2011)

I also need Soymilk- there's a $2/1 IP for Silk for signing up HERE- This will make this $.50!

The last thing on my list is coffee creamer- the Bailey's Brand is priced at $2 last I checked. I have a $1/1 blinkie.

Here's the total prices after Q's:

Lightbulbs $.50
Pierogies $1.00
Worcestershire $.25
Soymilk $.50
Creamer $1.00
Total= $3.25

Leaving me $1.47 for the week! :)

Day #2- feeding two people for a week for $20 total

2011-03-22T20:34:00.006-04:00

Today was great! Both of us remembered our lunches, and I made Tuna Burgers for dinner. I know that may sound a little different, but they are SO good (very similar to a crab cake) and super frugal! You get 4 patties from one can of tuna! I used this recipe, modified slightly.

Ingredients

1 (6 ounce) can tuna, drained
1 egg
1/2 cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
1/3 cup minced onion
1/4 cup minced celery
1/4 cup minced red bell pepper
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons chili sauce
1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 dash hot pepper sauce
1 dash Worcestershire sauce
4 hamburger buns
1 tomato, sliced

Directions

Combine tuna, egg, bread crumbs, onion, celery, red bell pepper, mayonnaise, hot chili sauce, chili sauce, dill, salt, pepper, hot pepper sauce and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well. Shape into 4 patties (mixture will be very soft and delicate). Refrigerate for 30 minutes to make the patties easier to handle, if desired.

Coat a non-stick skillet with cooking spray; fry tuna patties for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until cooked through. These are fragile, so be careful when turning them. Serve on buns with tomato slices and lettuce leaves, if desired.

And while I was making the plates, I even packed lunch for tomorrow! :)

Earn $5 Groupon Bucks when you use the Groupon mobile app to purchase a deal

2011-03-22T19:36:00.003-04:00

Earn $5 Groupon Bucks when you use the Groupon mobile app to purchase a deal.* But hurry, this offer is only valid through April 8, 2011!

I have the App on my iPhone and love it! It sends me text alerts so I never miss a deal. You can even set up your account with a credit card so you can get your Groupon without even pulling out your wallet!

If you haven't signed up for Groupon yet, go HERE!

My $20 Meal Plan for 2 for the Week

2011-03-22T15:15:00.003-04:00

I've come up with a base plan using the stuff I have on hand. As I mentioned in an earlier post, I have a 3.5 pound pork roast in my freezer, which I'll be splitting into two meals after cooking in the crock pot- BBQ Pork one day, and Pork Tacos the next.

Today: Tuna Burgers, Fries

Wednesday: BBQ Pork, Southern Potato Salad

Thursday: Tomato Soup, Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Friday: Pork Tacos, Spanish Rice

Saturday: Chicken Parmigiana, Salad

Sunday: Grilled Chicken, Steamed Broccoli, Mashed Potatoes

I still need to come up with lunches for the weekend, but I think we're off to a good start! I may even make some rice pudding, depending on how cheap I can get some milk & raisins!

My CVS Scenario week of 3/20/11

2011-03-21T21:19:00.002-04:00

I currently have 12 ECB. You can get a full list of all of the deals this week with match-ups HERE.

Allegra Allergy 5 ct $6.99 get $6.99 eb Limit 1

Suave get $3 eb wyb $12 Limit 1:
body wash 12 oz $2 x 6 = $12

Reach total care toothbrush or floss 55 yds $1 x 2

-$1 Reach Toothbrush or Floss Product x 2

-$2 Allegra, Allegra Children's Product, or Allegra D , 5-15 ct Allegra, 12 hr 10 ct, or 24 hr 5 ct IP

- $4 (2 x B2G1 Suave Body Wash (exp 4/17/2011) 3/20/2011 RP)

= $12.99
- 12 ECB
= $.99 OOP

Earn $6.99 and $3 ECB

A Savannah Hangover Story, and This weeks challenge- feeding two people for $20 (total)

2011-03-21T19:27:00.006-04:00

Hi everyone- we're back from an amazing trip to Savannah, Georgia to celebrate St. Patrick's day. This was our fourth consecutive year going and we had a total blast...but I'm a little hungover. Not from too much green beer, but from spending so much green!

One of the reasons (aside from saving for retirement) that I am so frugal in every day life is so we can travel and spend our hard earned money on the things we really want. I love laundry detergent as much as the next guy, but that $12 I could spend on a bottle of Tide could better be spent at a bistro in Savannah, or socked away in my nest egg.

Coming back to our trip, we really had a good time. We were lucky enough to be able to meet up with two seperate groups of friends, one set Wednesday & Thursday, and the next Thursday- Sunday, and spent the weekend eating, drinking, and taking in the sights and sounds of the oldest city in Georgia.

I did some pre-trip saving by booking a room at the Mansion on Forsyth park very early on at an awesome rate of $119 a night (plus taxes and $20 a day for parking - still a great price considering you really can't touch a room in the historic district for under $300 a night this time of year), and scouring Resturant.com and Groupon for deals in the weeks before the trip. Nothing on Groupon was useful for me, but I was able to score a giftcard on Restaurants.com for a wonderful restaurant, 17Hundred90. Four of us dined very well (think Osso Buco, Filet Mingon, and wine) for a total of $94 including gratuity. The gift certificate was $50 off of a $100 purchase, and I paid $4 for it. Not only did it save us some cash, it also gave us an opportunity to experience the wonderful food, service, and history of this place. If you're ever in Savannah, please go. It's not to be missed.

Other than that, we didn't really hold back at all. We frequented tons of restaurants, bars, and did some shopping. It was a blast and we enjoyed every moment, but now it's time to get back on track and replenish the bank account.

We're on the wagon. :)

I've decided that the first step in cutting costs is the most obvious- food. Likely most people's biggest expense. I took a quick inventory of what we had already in the fridge, freezer, and pantry and decided that we could definitely make it a week on $20 total ($10 each).

I stopped by Publix on my way home today to pick up a few things: chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, bananas, and bread.

My total was $15.28 (leaving $4.72 for the week).

Tonight I made a Chicken Pasta dish using the new Philly Cooking Cream. It was super simple and really good! Just brown some chicken (I used about a third of the bag above), add some steamed broccoli (that I got on sale last week) and a container of the Cooking Creme, also on sale from last week). I boiled a box of rotini and this made enough for two dinners and two lunches tomorrow.

I'm working on a plan for the rest of the week. I have quite a hodge-podge of stuff on hand, including a pork roast in the freezer (I'm thinking BBQ in the crock pot), and four boxes of Minute Rice from a recent sale, so this should be interesting! I'll be posting what I make every day. Hopefully some of you will join me in living off of your stockpile and saving some cash too!

Bath & Body ~ FREE Tote and Full-Sized Country Chic Body Lotion with any Signature Collection Purchase!

2011-03-16T12:03:00.000-04:00

Bath & Body ~ FREE Tote and Full-Sized Country Chic Body Lotion with any Signature Collection Purchase!

This Saturday – March 19th from 1pm – 5pm

On their site, it says that their Signature Collection Body Care is on sale Buy 3, get 2 FREE!!

Go Here for complete details!!

Don’t forget to grab this Bath & Body Free Travel Size Item *With any purchase HERE!

(Thanks to Frugal Living and Having Fun!)

Diet Pepsi Skinny Cans (4pk.) ~ Buy One Get One Free Printable Coupon!

2011-03-16T11:56:00.000-04:00

Diet Pepsi Skinny Cans (4pk.) ~ Buy One Get One Free Printable Coupon HERE!

Hot Deals @ Wal-Mart!

2011-03-16T11:48:00.002-04:00

There's some really hot deals happening at Wal-Mart right now that I wanted to share with you. I don't post very often about Wal-Mart deals beause I don't frequently shop there, but these deals are too good to pass up so I'm planning a big trip before the end of the month.

Before you go, you can Go HERE to print out Walmart’s Coupon Policy!

Scotch Brite Sponges ONLY $0.34 each

Scotch Brite Sponges $0.84
Use $1/2 Printable Coupon (PDF)
$0.34 each after coupon

Eco Friendly Avery Mailing Labels are $4 per package. Use this $5/1 Avery Full Sheet Label coupon to get them FREE, plus possible overage!

If you still have those high value $3/1 Purex coupons from the 2/20 Redplum insert and find the 2-ct. Travel Size Purex 3-in-1 Sheets at your store, you could be getting some overage - $2.03 per item/coupon!

Gain Fabric Sheets 80 ct $3.12
$3/1 Gain Fabric Softener or Sheets, exp. 3-31-11 (RP 02/13/11)
Final Price= $.12

Gain Fabric Sheets 40 ct $1.87
$3/1 Gain Fabric Softener or Sheets, exp. 3-31-11 (RP 02/13/11)
Final Price= FREE

(I ordered 20 Gain Coupons on Ebay!)

Here's a list of even more deals:

Whiskas Trays 2/$1
B1G1 printable
B1G1 Whiskas Tray, exp. 4-16-11 (RP 02/20/11)
Final Price= $.25 each wyb 2

Gas-X 20 ct $1.28
$1/1 printable
$1/1 Gas-X Product, exp. 4-30-11 (SS 01/09/11)
Final Price= $.28

Halls Cough Drops 30- 40 ct $1.18
$.50/1 printable
$.50/1 printable
$.50/1 March All You
Final Price= $.68

Alpo $.67

B1G1 FREE Alpo Coupon
Final Price: $.34

Spic & Span Everyday $.97
-$1/2 Spic & Span Printable
Final Price: $.47

Ronzoni Healthy Harvest Pasta $.98
-$1/2 Ronzoni printable
Final Price: $.48

Idahoan Original Potatoes $.42
$1/3 printable
Final Price= $.08 each wyb 3

Bestlife Buttery Spread or Spray $1.78
$1/1 Select Bestlife Buttery Items, exp. 3-2 (SS 01/02/11 #2)
$1/1 Bestlife Buttery Spread, Spray or Sticks, exp. 3-31 (SS 01/30/11)
Final Price=$.78

Danimals Crush Cups 4 ct $2.00
$1/1 Danimals Product, exp. 4-26-11 (SS 02/27/11)
Final Price= $1.00

Colgate Wave Single Toothbrush $1.74
$0.75/1 Colgate Manual Toothbrush, exp. 3-19-11 (SS 02/27/11)
Final Price= $.99

Pinesol $1.97
$1/1 Pinesol printable
Final Price=$.97

Enter to win a FREE Bare Escentuals Starter Kit on FB!

2011-03-15T11:35:00.002-04:00

Bare Escentuals is giving away 1,000 of our Naturally Luminous Skin Renewing Trio kits over 6 days. It's a revolutionary 30-day, 3-piece Try Me kit ($26 value). Go HERE to "Like" them and enter to win yours today! Hurry- contest ends March 20, 2011.

Good Luck!!

$39 worth of Coupons from P&G!

2011-03-14T20:08:00.002-04:00

Get your FREE P&G coupons & samples this quarter! Visit https://www.pgeverydaysolutions.com/pgeds/brandsampler.jsp ! Already requested yours? Why not share the site with your friends so they can sign up for deals & samples too, & you'll show off your SAVVY savings side!

This is a separate offer from the coupon book we recently got!

Free Photo Book from Picaboo through 3/22

2011-03-12T15:00:00.001-05:00

If you still haven’t taken advantage of the AWESOME Picaboo photo deal, you still have time! NEW customers of Picaboo can Get a FREE Classic Custom photo book at Picaboo! Use code FREECC through March 22, 2011. Just pay shipping!

These are beautiful, high quality books in a 8.5 x11 size. The classic custom photo book normally retails for about $40! The cost of shipping is very reasonable, coming it at about $8-$9. This would make a lovely gift for Mother’s Day, Graduation or any other special occasion. Though I haven't yet tried them, I have never heard anything but GREAT things about Picaboo and their products.

You’ll need to go through this special link HERE and then enter your e-mail address to get your book. This coupon code offer is for NEW customers only and there is a limit of one per household. Code is valid through March 22nd. Enjoy!

Don't forget about the Old Navy Sale today!!

2011-03-12T10:28:00.004-05:00

I SO wish there was an Old Navy closer to me!! Their Semi-Annual Stock-Up Sale is today, and to sweeten the deal they're a $5/25 purchase Q!

Here's some great scenarios:

#1: Buy 3 Tank Dresses @ $9 each = $26
Use the $5/25 Q
Pay $21 ($7 each- look how cute these are!!)

#2: Buy 5 Womens Perfect Rib Knit Tanks @ $5 = $25
- $5/25 Q
= $4 each!

There's so many great scenarios! You can check out their sale ad HERE!

$20 AMF Bowling Q

2011-03-12T09:12:00.001-05:00

**$20 AMF Coupon *PLUS More Special Offers at all AMF Locations.**

This coupon goes very fast, so you will have to print soon if this is something you would enjoy!!!

Go HERE to print this coupon!!

This $20 can be used for both bowling and rentals!

HOT Milk Coupon

2011-03-12T09:03:00.002-05:00

My friend Gina found a great IP for TG Lee milk- $1/1 w/ no size restrictions! You should be able to use this to score the smaller bottles for super cheap or may even free. Click here to get yours!

Thanks for sharing Gina!!

What I'm stocking up on this week at Publix

2011-03-12T08:38:00.002-05:00

We really don't need much this week after my big shopping trip last Sunday, so I'm just stopping by to pick up some super deals. Most of these deals are using printable coupons, so even if you don't have a huge backlog of inserts you can join in!

Marzetti Simply Dressed Dressing, 12 oz bot, BOGO $3.49
-$1/1 Marzetti Simply Dressed Salad Dressing (exp 4/2/2011)
Use two Q's and get these for $.75 each

Yoplait YoPlus 4 ct, BOGO $2
-$1/1 Yoplait YoPlus Yogurt Rolling
-$1/1 Yoplait YoPlus Yogurt Rolling
Use two Q's and get two for free!

Pam Cooking Spray 5 to 6 oz can, BOGO $3.19
-$1.50/2 Pam Cooking Spray 1/23/2011 SS Insert (exp 3/13/2011)
This isn't a printable Q but if you have this insert you can get these for less that $.85 each

Pedigree Dentastix Treats 6 to 6.2 oz, BOGO $3
-$1/1 Pedigree Dentastix Treats for Dogs (IE) Rolling Printable (FF)
-$2/1 Pedigree Dentastix Treats For Dogs 1/30/2011 RP Insert (exp 3/19/2011)
Use one of each of those q's to get two bags for free! My pups love these!

Voskos Greek Yogurt 5.3 oz cup, 10/$10 -$0.75/1 Voskos Greek Yogurt
-$0.75/1 Voskos Greek Yogurt Varieties (IE) Rolling Printable (FF)
-$1/1 Voskos Product Rolling

Get them free with the $1/1
Sargento Shredded Cheese, 5 to 8 oz, 2/$4
-$1.50/1 Sargento Classic Shredded Extra Sharp Cheddar 7 oz
-$1.50/1 Sargento Classic Pepper Jack 8 oz
$.50 cheese- YES!
Birds Eye Frozen Vegetables, 7.5 to 32 oz bag, 50% off ($.64 to $1.84) -$1/2 Birds Eye Steamfresh or regular frozen vegetables 7.5 to 18 oz. Yellow Advantage Buy Flyer -$1/3 Birds-Eye or Steamfresh Varieties (IE) (exp 3/31/2011) Printable (FF)

Buy 3 of the $.64 @ items = $1.92, use both Q's and they're an $.08 money maker!

YoPlait Frozen Smoothies, 2/$5 -$1/2 Yoplait Smoothie In Ad Coupon -$1/1 Yoplait Frozen Smoothie Rolling
Buy two, use both Q's and get these for $1 each

Don't forget, there's a $10/$50 ANY Gas Card with $25 purchase Q in the Ad! Use this to save some $$ on the crazy gas prices!

Walgreens Deals starting 3/13

2011-03-12T08:11:00.002-05:00

Get $4 RR WYB (2) Irish Spring Body Wash 15 or 18 oz. or AP/Deo 2.7 or 3 oz. 2/$6
- $1/1 Irish Spring Deodorant PRINT or PRINT
-$.50/1 Irish Spring Body Wash or (2) Multi-Bar 3+ packs 3-13-11 SS x4/2
-$1/1 Irish Spring Deodorant 3-13-11 SS x4/2
= FREE IRISH SPRING DEODORANT or $.50 BODY WASH

Get $9.99 MAIL IN REBATE WYB ArthArrest Tropical Analgesic Lotion 3 oz. $9.99
= FREE AFTER MAIL IN REBATE!

Get $10 RR WYB Freestyle Lite or Freedom Lite Blood Glucose Monitor $19.99
-$10/1 FreeStyle Brand Blood Glucose Monitoring System, any – 09-12-10 SS x3/31
= AS LOW AS FREE!

Get $10 RR WYB $20+ of Excedrin Pain Relief (any size)
-$1/1 Excedrin Migraine, Any 24 Ct. Or Larger PRINT
-$1/1 Excedrin Extra Strength Product, Any 20 Ct PRINT
-$1/1 Excedrin PM Product, Any 20 Ct. Or Larger – PRINT
-$2.50/1 Excedrin PM product, 20 ct or larger – 12-05-10 SS x6/1
-$1/1 Excedrin product, 20 ct or larger – 12-05-10 SS x3/31
-$.75/1 Excedrin 20ct+ 2-27-11 SS x4/16
-$1.50/1 Excedrin 80 ct+ 2-27-11 SS x4/16
= AS LOW AS $.49 EACH WYB (5) EXCEDRIN PM 20ct ($4.99 each)

Get $3 RR WYB Dial NutriSkin Lotion 21 oz. $4.99
-$1/1 Dial Nutriskin Lotion, Any 03-13-11 RP x4/30
= AS LOW AS $.99 EACH!

Get $2 RR WYB Purex Complete Fabric Softener 32 loads $4.99
– $1/1 Purex Complete Crystals Softener PRINT or PRINT
-$2/1 Purex any Complete Crystals Softener 03-13-11 RPx4/30
= AS LOW AS $.99 EACH!

Get $1 RR WYB Herbal Essences or Aussie Hair Care 6 to 14 oz. $2.99
-$1/1 Herbal or Aussie Product, Any – P&G Everyday Savings x6/30
= AS LOW AS $.99 EACH!

Get $3 RR WYB $10 or more of participating Revlon Products
Revlon Cosmetics & Implements 40% off (Excludes ColorBurst)
-$1/1 Revlon Grow Luscious Mascara or Revlon Color Cosmetic Product, any – 02-13-11 SS x3/20
-$1/1 Revlon ColorBurst Lipgloss or Revlon Color Cosmetics Product, any – 03-06-11 SS x4/10
-$1/1 Revlon CustomEyes Mascara or Revlon Color Cosmetics Product, any – 03-06-11 SS x4/10
-$1/1 Revlon color cosmetic – Cosmopolitan October 2010 x3/31
-$1/1 Revlon Color Cosmetic product – Marie Claire, October 2010 (page 117) x3/31
-$1/1 Revlon Cosmetics Spring Beauty Guide Booklet x4/30

Get $3 RR WYB $10+ of participating Neosporin, Band-Aid, or Red Cross products
-$.50/1 Neosporin Product Or Band-Aid Adhesive Product – 02-13-11 RP x4/30
-$.50/1 Neosporin product OR Band-Aid adhesive bandage 1-9-11 SS2 x3/31
-$1.50/2 Neosporin AND Band-aid adhesive bandage 1-9-11 SS2 x3/31
-$1.50/2 Neosporin AND Band-aid adhesive bandage 02-13-11 SS2 x4/30
-$1.50/2 J&J Red Cross Brand covers & tapes – 01-09-11 SS x3/31
= AS LOW AS $1.37 EACH WYB (2) J&J Tapes @ $2.49 & (2) Band-Aids @ $2.99

Get $1 RR WYB Listerine Cool or Soft Mint, Original, or FreshBurst 1 liter, Whitening 16 oz. $3.99
-$1/1 Listerine Whitening Rinse Product, 16 FL oz or larger – 01-09-11 SS x12/31
-$1/1 Listerine Antiseptic Mouthwash, 1L or large – 02-27-11 SS x12/31
-$.50/1 ; $1/1 Listerine Antiseptic Mouthwash 500 mL+, Reach Toothbrush, Floss, Flosser – 01-09-11 SS x12/31
-$1.50/2 Listerine Antiseptic Mouthwash 500 mL+ Reach Toothbrush, Floss or Access Flosser – 01-09-11 SS x12/31
-$.50/1 Listerine mouthwash 1L+ 2-27-11 SS x12/31
= AS LOW AS 1.99 EACH

Get $3 RR WYB (3) Olay Body Wash 10 or 12 oz, Lotion 8.4 oz, 2 pk Bar Soap 3/$12
-FREE Olay bar soap, body wash OR in shower body lotion wyb Olay Facial Cleanser 2-27-11 PG x3/31
-$1/1 Olay bar, body wash, in shower body lotion, hand & body lotion 2-27-11 PG x3/31
-$1/1 Olay Personal Care Product or Body Lotion, P&G Everyday Savings x6/30
= AS LOW AS $2 EACH

Get $1 RR WYB Clairol Natural Instincts Hair Color $5.99
-$1/1 Clairol Natural Instincts, any 03-13-11 RP x4/30
-$5/2 Clairol Natural Instincts, any 03-13-11 RP x4/30
-$2/1 Clairol Hair Color, any – P&G Everyday Savings x6/30
= AS LOW AS $2.99 EACH

Get $2 RR WYB Participating Clearasil Skin Care products $2 OFF
-$1/1 Clearasil product, any – 01-23-11 SS x4/17
-$1/1 Clearasil Product 03-13-11 SS x5/13
= AS LOW AS $3.49 FOR THE ULTRA CLEARASIL LINE
(*If regular line is included that would make some products free but most likely just the Ultra line)

Get $2 RR WYB Mucinex 14 or 20 ct. $10.99
-$1/1 Mucinex, Children’s or Adult product, ets – 01-16-11 SS x4/16
-$1/1 Mucinex-D, Any – All You, February 2011 x9/30
= AS LOW AS $7.99 EACH

Get $4 RR WYB Gillette Venus ProSkin Razor System $7.99
-$5/2 Venus ProSkin MoistureRich, Embrace, or Breeze Refillable Razor AND (1) Venus Cartridge 2-27-11 PG x3/31
= $9.98 FOR RAZOR & CARTRIDGE (CARTRIDGES START @ $10.99)

Get $5 RR WYB Prilosec OTC Acid Reducer 42 ct. @ $24.99
-$3/1 Prilosec 2-27-11 PG x3/31
= AS LOW AS $16.99 EACH!

Get $4 RR WYB Claritin Allergy Relief 40 ct. Liqui-Gels or 45 ct. Tablets $26.99
-$5/1 Claritin, Non Drowsy, 24ct+ PRINT
-$5/1 Claritin Non-Drowsy, any 20-count or larger – 2-27-11 SS x3/27
= AS LOW AS $17.99 EACH

Get $10 RR WYB RoC Brilliance or Aveeno Ageless Vitality Age Care $29.99
-$1/1 any ROC Product Spring Beauty Guide Booklet x4/30

SPECIAL PURCHASE DEALS

Get FREE Redbox Rental at checkout WYB participating Lay’s, Tostitos, Sun Chips or Rold Gold products, 9oz+ AND 2 participating Pepsi 2 liter bottles.
Pepsi 2 Liter Bottles 4/$4
Tostitos, Sun Chips, Rold Gold Rods or Lay’s Chips 10.5 to 13oz $2.49
-$1/2 Tostitos Artisan Recipes Tortilla Chips, any (1 per customer) – 02-27-11 SS x4/13 (if included)

(Thanks Wild for Wags!!)

Free Dove Men' Deo @ CVS w/ Q!

2011-03-12T07:40:00.001-05:00

YEAH ! That means 2 free deodorants at CVS per computer !!!

(make sure you get the ones with the silver caps, they are the only ones ringing up $2):

Dove Men+Care deodorant 2/$4
Coupon: $2 off Mens Dove Deodorant on coupons.com
Final Price: FREE

Sneak Peek- CVS Weekly Sales/Deals 3/13

2011-03-12T07:23:00.003-05:00

Here are the coupon match-ups for CVS Sale/Deals 3/13 Weekly Ad

Irish Spring Deodorant $2.99
Earn $2 Extra Bucks (Limit 1)
Use $1/1 Printable
Or $0.50/1 Coupon from the 3/13 SmartSource insert
$Free ~ $0.49 After both Coupon and Extra Bucks

Crest or Oral B Pro Healthy Rinse, Toothpaste, or floss – $3.49
Earn $2.50 Extra Bucks (Limit 2)
Use $1/1 Coupon for both Crest Toothpaste and Rinse coupon from the 2/27 Proctor & Gamble insert
Or $1/1 Coupon from the Proctor & Gamble Savings Book
Or $1/1 Glide Coupon from the 2/27 Proctor & Gamble insert
As low as FREE after coupon

Theraflu Daytime Severe Cold & Cough Trial Size (1pk.) – $0.99
Earn $0.99 Extra Bucks (Limit 1)
$2/1 Theraflu Product (IE) Printable (FF)
$FREE After coupon

Tena Ultra Thins – $9.99
Earn $9.99 Extra Bucks (Limit 1)
Use $2.50/1 Printable
Or $1.50/1 Coupon from the 1/2 SmartSource insert
$Free *PLUS Money Maker

Purex 3-In-1 – $3.99
Use Purex 3-in-1 Sheets $3/1 Coupon from the 2/20 RedPlum insert
$0.99 after coupon

Purex Crystals Softener – $3.99
Use $2/1 Purex Crystals Coupon from the 3/13 RedPlum insert
As low as $1.99 after coupon

Dial NutriSkin (21 oz.) – $4.99
Earn $3 Extra Bucks
Use $2/1 coupon from the 2/20 RedPlum insert
Or $1/1 Printable or coupon from the 3/13 RedPlum insert
FREE after coupon and Extra Bucks

Softsoap Pampered Hands Foaming Hand Soap, Shea Butter or Sea Minerals Hand Soap (8-8.5 oz.) 2/$6
Earn $3 Extra Bucks *When you buy (2) (Limit 1)
$1.50 each after coupon
NOTE: The overage on the Tena can help pay for this item. You could always donate it if not needed.

Aussie or Herbal Essences Shampoo, Conditioner or Styler – 2/$5.97
Earn $2 Extra Bucks *When you buy (2) (Limit 1)
2/$3.97 after extra bucks

Allegra 24 hour. (30ct.) Allegra – D 12-hour. (20ct.) or 24 Hour (10ct.) – $16.99
Earn $5 Extra Bucks
Use $4/1 Printable Here or Here
Or $4/1 Coupon from the 3/6 SmartSource insert
As low as $7.99 after Extra Bucks and Coupo

Free Lighter from Bic!

2011-03-11T12:01:00.001-05:00

BIC Lighters is hosting a 4 minute survey and in exchange for your time, they will send you a coupon for up to $4.99 off a BIC Pocket Lighter. Limit 1 coupon per household.

Pretty Neat Organizational Book and $200 Gift card Giveaway

2011-03-10T19:29:00.002-05:00

Angela over at The Suburban Jungle is doing an awesome giveaway on her blog. You can win a Pretty Neat Organizational Book and $200 same as cash Gift Card (Visa or AMEX) and $50 worth of Buttoned Up organizational products!

All you have to do is leave a comment sharing your biggest source of organizational stress! To enter click HERE!

Good luck everyone!!

Totally Free $20 Target Gift Card offer expires soon!

2011-03-10T18:46:00.002-05:00

I'm trying to earn a complimentary gift card for Plum Reward: Refer Four Friends and Get a $20 Target GiftCard from Plum District, and I need your help to do it. Plum District is the leading deal site for savvy moms and their families to make their lives easier and more enjoyable. I thought you would be interested in it ... and about that help: if I get 4 people to sign up for Plum District today, I'll get my gift card. If you sign up, you may have a chance to earn a complimentary gift card, too! It only takes a few moments- Just click here!

I promise this isn't spam (I wouldn't do that to ya!) :)

Once you sign up, just get 4 of your friends to do the same and you can get a gift card too!!

Please post back and let me know if you've gotten one too!

Rubbermaid 24-Piece Food Storage Set with Easy-Find Lids $10 Shipped!

2011-03-10T18:23:00.004-05:00

Darn it- I JUST bought this set about a month ago from Amazon for over $20 (which was the best price at the time!)

Walmart ~ Rubbermaid 24-Piece Food Storage Set with Easy-Find Lids

**ONLY $10 *FREE SHIPPING!!**

Free Shipping offer is site-to-store!!

Easily store your leftovers for later enjoyment with the Rubbermaid 24-Piece Food Storage Set with Easy-Find Lids. It features easy-find lids that conveniently snap to the base bottom and to each other. This Rubbermaid 24-Piece Food Storage Set is the perfect choice for all of your storage needs.

Go Here to offer page!!

Rubbermaid 24-Piece Food Storage Set with Easy-Find Lids:

Lids snap to base bottom and to each other
Bases and lids nest inside each other
Easy to keep organized
Square shape makes organization easy
Clear base for easy viewing of contents
Microwave, freezer and dishwasher safe
Contains Two 0.5-cup containers with lids
Two 1.25-cup containers with lids
Two 2-cup containers with lids
Two 3-cup containers with lids
Two 5-cup containers with lids
Two 7-cup containers with lids
With lids that snap to base and to each other, this 24-Piece Rubbermaid Food Storage Set is the perfect choice for all of your storage needs

I highly recommend this set. I used to have a cabinet full of mis-matched plastic containers, which I recycled and replaced with this. My cabinet is nice and organized now! Plus, the containers are sturdy and resist staining which is great!

Thanks Frugal Living and Having Fun!

FREE $20 Target Giftcard @ Plum District!

2011-03-10T11:14:00.003-05:00

Have you signed up for PlumDistrict yet? If not today is the day to sign up!!!

Go HERE and sign up then pass this deal a long to just four people. When you have passed it on to four friends they will send you a FREE $20 Target Gift Card.

Fantastic Deal!!

**MAKE SURE YOU VERIFY YOUR ACCOUNT….. and let your friends know they have to verify their account!!

Highlights

Refer 4 friends and receive a $20 Target GiftCard
Redeemable in Target stores or on line at www.Target.com — have your items shipped straight to your door!
Good toward any purchase: clothing, home wares, electronics, toys, and more

The Fine Print

Target GiftCards will be mailed to the address you provide within 10 business days
Gift cards are subject to all applicable state and federal laws
Your referrals must be new Plum District users to count towards your ability to earn Plum Rewards
Your referrals must sign up through your unique invitation for this specific Plum Reward (presented during checkout) to count towards your ability to earn this Plum Reward. Referrals who sign up through other any other referral method — including those who sign up while the Plum Reward opportunity is available — will not count towards your Plum Rewards total.
To qualify, all of your referrals must sign up through your unique invitation AND confirm their email address before the deal closes
Limit 1 per person
Limit 1 per household
Expires 01/01/21

2011-03-09T20:53:00.002-05:00

Click HERE for a printable couponf for a FREE Sephora Collection 7-in-1 Full Action Mascara at participating Sephora inside JCPenney stores!

It says on the coupon that if they run out they’ll give you ANY another sample in the store!

Offer good through 4/7/11, while supplies last. Limit one per person.

Getting started - Online Shopping

2011-03-08T20:43:00.003-05:00

If you follow my blog, by now you probably realized that I don't pay full price for pretty much anything. That goes for groceries, household goods, beauty supplies, and just about anything else you can think of.

I want to tell you about several sites and programs I use for saving money while shopping online. Every single one of them is free, and can save you lots of cash or at least reward you in some way.

1. First things first- before I shop at any website, I check and see if there is a coupon code available at Retail Me Not. Here you can type in any website and see the coupon codes available for that site. You also have the ability to share codes with others and report expired codes.

2. After you've found your coupon code, head over to Ebates, where you earn cold hard cash (really- they mail you a check) just for shopping through their website. You even get paid $5.00 just for joining! They also feature lots of online deals for various shopping sites.

3. My Points is another click-through shopping site, somewhat like Ebates, but instead of cash you earn points by shopping, taking surveys, even printing coupons that are redeemable for a ton of various prizes (I redeem mine for gift cards). The points are really easy to earn, and a lot of people save them up through the year then cash out for gift cards to use for holiday shopping.

4. Groupon, Groupon, Groupon!! If you haven't signed up for this incredible program then you've obviously been living in a cave for the last 6 months! I have scored the most incredible deals through Groupon, everything from dining out, travel, shopping, and more! The only downside of Groupon is that they do take advantage of everyone's impulse to jump at such hot deals (myself included- I definitely have to exercise a lot of restraint with them!) by giving a tight time limit to the deals they offer.

5. Living Social- Almost the same concept as Groupon, but with different daily deals. I recently scored a $20 Amazon gift card for $10 from this site (Free money? Yes, please!) so it's definitely a site worth watching!

Just a small piece of advice- make sure that when you're buying something it's something that you absolutely need. It's easy to get lured into buying something that is a great deal just because that's what it is. A $10 dress hanging in your closet with the tags that you end up giving away might as well be $10 in the garbage.

Also, if there is a major purchase you know you are going to be making, take your time, do research, and watch for sales. A lot of people don't want to wait, but I can't even imagine how many thousands of dollars I've saved by shopping around for the best price.

Have fun shopping everyone!! :)

$5 off a $25 purchase at Old Navy

2011-03-08T16:02:00.003-05:00

In stores- click HERE for the coupon. You should be able to combine this with the sales that are going on right now for some great deals!

Frugal, Fun & Fabulous

OLD Navy $20 Gift Certificate for ONLY $10

"I miss your blog..."

A note to all of my wonderful followers....

HUGE Deposit to the cruise fund!

Free P'Zone from Pizza Hut!

My meal plan for the month

O.M.G.- CVS Scenario week of 8/7/11- you are not going to believe this!

My CVS Scenario week of 7/31/11

FREE Activia Select yogurt!

2 Free Ruby minis at Ruby Tuesday!!

My shopping list for Publix 8/7/11

My CVS Plan for the week of 7/24/11

Hurry- $10 off a $10 puchase at Pier One!

FREE sample of Burn Jel

FREE Supergoop Sunscreen @ Spehora in JC Penny

Great Deals @ Wal-Mart

FREE Burger @ Ruby Tuesdays- Hurry!

$10 off Gas at Publix

$163.09 deposit to the cruise fund!

WOW- $1 Sub @ Jimmy Johns tomorrow! (Participating Locations Locations in Salt Lake City, Tampa and Wichita)

Free contact solution @ Wal-Mart

My CVS Scenario week of 6/19/11

My CVS Scenario week of 6/5/11

SMOKING HOT $5 Bounty Paper Towels Coupon!!!

FREE Garden Bar @ Ruby Tuesday!

Super HOT Groupon deal- $10 for $20 to Old Navy!

*HOT* Printable Coupons on Facebook today

Target deals I'm taking advantage of this week

What I'm stocking up on this week at Publix

My CVS Scenario week of 5/22/11

Heading to Wal-Mart today- here's what's on my list!

Free Samples!!

My trip to CVS today- saved $89.55, spent $30.68

My Meal Plan for the Week

Dining in May- Day 9 (Don't forget about the $25 Olive Garden Giftcard Giveaway!)

My CVS Scenario week of 5/8/11

Wal-Mart deals week of 5/8

What I'm stocking up on at Publix- week of 5/8

Try Nature's Variety Raw Diet for Pets Free!

$47.75 Deposit to the Cruise Fund

Dining in in May- and a $25 Olive Garden Giftcard giveaway!

My trip to CVS today- and another $59.36 for the cruise fund!

Another $112 deposit to the cruise fund!

FREE Entree @ Tijuana Flats today only!!

It pays to like Tijuana Flats on Facebook - FREE ENTREE with coupon when you like their page!!! Just print it and bring it in to any Tijuana Flats. Valid today only!

HOT Groupon- $8 for One Large Any-Topping Pizza at Domino's Pizza (Up to $20 Value)!

The Fine Print

Check your email for Free eos hand lotion!

First Deposit into the Vacation Fund!!

Check your Kraft First Taste Accounts for two free product offers!

My Meal Plan for the Week

Where I've been, and what I'm doing, and a little something for you!

HOT Old Navy swimsuit deals this Saturday!

FREE full Size Essence of Beauty Product @ CVS!

Another Amazon Giftcard Deal!

Another $5 any purchase at Petsmart!

Enter to win a FREE EOS Hand Lotion!

Hurry- there's still some free samples of Tide Stain Release!

*Hot* Two FREE Suave Professionals Products!

Free Sample Sunday (5 new free samples!)

My CVS Scenario week of 4/3/11

My meal plan for the week

Free Organize in Style coupon booklet w/ over $35 in savings!

FREE Purex Crystals from Target

My CVS Plan for the week of 3/27/11

SUPER HOT Groupon deal- pay $7 for a $15 Ebay GC!!

The Fine Print

Petsmart- FREE Royal Canin Selective Discovery box

My (semi-disastrous) Wal-Mart Couponing Trip

*Hot* Tide & Pantene Freebies on Facebook Tonight!

Bath & Body Free 2 oz. Country Chic Body Lotion

Samples available: Head & Shoulders Itchy Scalp Care with Eucalyptus

Suave Professionals Giveaway @ 12p ET today!

Free Chips & Queso at Chili's March 24-27

Day #3- feeding two people for a week for $20 total

Ingredients

Directions

Take a break from aftertaste with a FREE sample.

I've got $4.72 left to spend for the week- here's what I'm buying @ Publix with the new ad starting 3/24 (3/23 for some)

HOT Printable Coupons on Facebook today

Hot Two FREE Suave Professionals Products!

Hot Tide & Pantene Freebies on Facebook Tonight!

**$20 AMF Coupon *PLUS More Special Offers at all AMF Locations.**

HOT Milk Coupon

**ONLY $10 *FREE SHIPPING!!**