I know I'm a slacker...

I know, I know, I haven't been keeping up with this blog. To be honest, I haven't been in a "blogging" kind of mood, and I began to look at it as a chore. I haven't been doing much in the way of couponing so I didn't really know what to blog about. I've come to the conclusion that while I do the couponing when I can, I just don't have the passion to write about it. I will be happy to answer any questions about it, but I'm not going to blog it anymore. I have started another blog - this one about one of my true passions, books- and I plan to start another one with family news and pictures.

With the start of work and classes approaching faster than a speeding train, and knowing that my time will be very precious, I've decided to cut out the things I am not totally enthusiastic about. So, I am sorry to say that this will be my last post on this blog.

If you would like to keep up with my family's life, my family blog is www.3widemanblessings.blogspot.com. I just started this one, so please be patient - it is in progress!

If you love to read, please check out my reading blog, www.thenewberyproject.blogspot.com.

God bless,

Kary

Homeland 7/05/10

Um, yes that IS a headboard in the background. We got our new bedroom furniture last weekend, and we are trying to figure out what to do with the old bed...need to see if it will store under our bed...ANYWAY, please disregard...

4 bottles Kraft salad dressing @ 1.66 each - 1.00 newspaper q = FREE plus overage!

2 small bottles Johnson baby powder @ 1.65 - 1.00 newspaper q = FREE

1 bar Johnson baby soap @ 2.09 - 1.00 newspaper q = .09

2 pkg Oscar Mayer chicken strips @ 2.99 each - 1.00/2 newspaper q = 1.99 each

4 boxes Bagel Bites @ 2.79 - 1.00 newspaper q = .79 each

8 pkg Bar S hot dogs @ .89 each - 1.00/2 newspaper q = FREE plus overage!

3 boxes Deli Creations sandwiches @ 2.49 each - 1.00 peelie q = .49 each

8 Yakisoba noodle dinners @ 1.00 each - 1.00/2 newspaper q = FREE

Kraft Miracle Whip @ 1.97 - no coupon, but I needed it

2 State Fair corn dogs @ 3.29 each - 1.00 printable (www.statefairbrand.com) = 1.29

4 pkg seasoned gourmet burger patties @ 1.13 each (on clearance and BOGO!)

Kraft cheese bites @ 2.99 - 1.00 printable (www.coupons.com) = .99

YoPlus yogurt @ 2.39 - 1.00 printable (www.coupons.com) = .39

2 pkg ground beef @ 3.98 - 2.00 printable (www.redriverranchangus.com) = 1.98 each

2 bottles KC masterpiece bbq sauce @ 1.00 each - 1.00 printable (no longer avail) = FREE plus overage!

2 pkg Solo paper bowls @ 2.19 each - 1.00 newspaper q = .19

2 pkg Oscar Mayer roast beef @ 2.99 each - 1.00/2 newspaper q = 1.99 each

dozen eggs @ .89

2 pkg Keebler soft and chewy cookies @ 1.99 - 1.00 printable (www.redplum.com) = FREE

2 Eckrich smoked sausage @ 2.49 each - 1.00/2 newspaper q = 1.49 each

24 pack Best Choice bottled water - WHOA, I just noticed that she must have accidentally scanned ONE of the bottles - it was supposed to be 2.49, but it rang up .33!!! I totally would've brought that to her attention had I realized it!

seasoned ribeye steaks - 4.56

Total spent = $37

Total saved = $110!

Hi, my name is Kary, and I am a bibliophile

I have been a bookworm for as long as I can remember. Some of my fondest childhood memories involve my visits to the local libraries. Every time I entered one, I would breathe in the scent and I always felt at peace. All those books organized so neatly on shelves, containing thousands of stories just waiting to be read...yes, I'm a nerd - but I am proud of it, lol! I spent 2 joyous summers as a teen volunteer at a library - and I LOVED it! One year I even got to meet and present an award to author Madeline L'Engle. I still have my signed copy of A Wrinkle in Time.

I have wanted to be a librarian ever since I knew what one was. But, as I grew older, I realized that libraries are not where the bucks are, and so I tried to find other passions with which I could find a career. Well, I have many interests - and I am totally enjoying studying psychology. But, I have decided that the library is where my heart is, and big bucks or not, I am going to pursue a degree in library science - and Billy totally supports me in this. What you may not know is that there is no bachelor's degree in library science, at least not around here. And to be a librarian - not just a library employee, but an actual librarian - you need a master's degree! So, I will get my bachelor's degree in human and family sciences, with a minor of psychology, and then I will pursue a master's of library science degree. I have looked at the books for these classes at NSU, and I get so excited - because it is SO me!

Specifically, I want to be a children's librarian. I love passing my love of literature onto my kids, and seeing them excited about books.

I have been reading more and more children's literature lately, mostly to "prepare" myself for the future, and to keep up with what my kids are reading about. But, in the process, I have decided that a lot of the best written works are actually "children's" books. Truly. I do read "adult" novels, and I enjoy a lot of them, but honestly, I think I prefer "juvenile" and "young adult" fiction. For one thing, you do not see as much bad language and sexual content in books for this age group (although it is increasing in teen fiction). Sometimes, that just ruins a book for me.

It seems this is catching on. After all, the Twilight saga and The Hunger Games trilogy are actually young adult fiction, and they have become favorites from late elementary age to adults.

So, I guess my point is - don't pass over the children's section of the bookstore or library. Your new favorites might just be waiting to be discovered there!

A birthday that was never meant to be

This is a topic that is hard for me, but I feel led to share. This week, every year, is a difficult one for me. You see, we would be celebrating a birthday at this time, a birthday that will never actually get to be celebrated. In November of 2001, we lost a baby. That baby would've been born around the last week of June in 2002. Every year I think about what that child would've looked like at that age. She would've been eight years old this week.

The first year after the miscarriage was horrible. I struggled with my grief and started sinking into a terrible depression. I did not know many people at the time who had experienced this, and so I felt very alone. I also struggled with feelings of self blame (what did I do that caused this?) and even struggled with being angry at God for taking my baby away from me. But, the pain did ease as time went on, and in June - the very month I was due, I found out I was pregnant with my beautiful boy, Stephen! I was a nervous wreck the whole pregnancy, but I had a wonderful, understanding doctor, who performed an ultrasound at every appointment to reassure me. Then, in Janurary of 2003, Stephen was born. He was a month early, and had a rocky start due to respiratory distress syndrome, but, he came home healthy. I will always carry our third child (as part of the healing process, we gave her the name Aimee Hope) in my heart, and she could never be replaced - but, I know now that when she went to be with Jesus, she made it possible for Stephen to come into our life.

When I go to be with the Lord, I will be reunited with her, and this thought has truly helped my heart to heal. The pain has mostly gone, but it is the "anniversaries" that are the hardest. My heart goes out to everyone who has experience pregnancy and baby loss.

There is a beautiful song, performed by the Christian group Selah, that truly captures how I felt at that time. It is called "I Will Carry You."

There were photographs I wanted to take
Things I wanted to show you
Sing sweet lullabies, wipe your teary eyes
Who could love you like this?

People say that I am brave, but I'm not
Truth is I'm barely hanging on
But there's a greater story
Written long before me
Because He loves you like this.

Chorus:
I will carry you
While your heart beats here
Long beyond the empty cradle
Through the coming years
I will carry you
All my life
And I will praise the One Who's chosen me
To carry you.

Such a short time
Such a long road
All this madness
But I know
That the silence
Has brought me to His voice
And He says...

I've shown her photographs of time beginning
Walked her through the parted seas
Angel lullabies, no more teary eyes
Who could love her like this?

Chorus

Happy birthday, my angel baby.

A fun, cheap family fun day

I'm a little behind in posting this, as it was 2 weeks ago, but it was such a good day that I have to share it. It also goes to show that there are plenty of fun things out there to do with the kids that don't cost an arm and a leg.

The first thing we did on this Saturday was attend a Lowe's "Build and Grow" clinic. These clinics are completely free! They supply each child with an apron, a hammer, safety goggles, and all the supplies to build the featured project. They hold these every other Saturday. It is such an awesome thing, and the kids had fun! We plan to go to every clinic we can. This particular one was building photo frames for dad in honor of Father's Day.

Look at the expression of concentration on Stephen's face!

True to her personality, Emily was very meticulous in her work and took her sweet time.

Daddy helping Stephen with a stubborn nail.

The finished projects! Now we need to find just the right photos to put in the frames! Daddy is taking these to work to put on his desk.

Next we tried to figure out what to do for lunch. We realized that Stephen has never been to Casa Bonita *gasp*! We used to go ALL the time when the girls were little, but then they shut down for awhile, then changed hands, and we had heard it wasn't the same. But they somewhat recently went back to the original management, so we decided to give it a go. I have always LOVED their cheese enchiladas! Well, it was not a cheap lunch, that was for sure, but we decided that it was a good way to celebrate Billy's recent promotion! We stuffed ourselves silly, and had a great time!

We definitely did not leave hungry!

Next, we went to Philbrook Art Museum in Tulsa. Every second Saturday of the month, they offer free admission and lots of kids activities.

When we signed up, each of the kids got an art case that held a sketch pad, pencil, eraser and some information about the art they would see. Each time they go, they will get a new art supply for their case. They got to make "scarab" necklaces in keeping with the Egyptian theme for their newest Egypt exhibit.

We participated in a scavenger hunt in the gardens. They followed clues to find each animal on their list. It was super hot, but the gardens were beautiful!

Done with the scavenger hunt!

Here they got to do "Egyptian" painting. Basically, just paint something you think might be considered Egyptian. Stephen painted a picture of a pharaoh's sarcophagus, Natalie drew some hieroglyphics, and our little rebel, Emily, made a Happy Father's Day greeting, lol!

It was a great day, and fun was had by all!

Eating out on the cheap (or free!) with kids this summer

I admit it - I like to eat out. The combination of being in a different environment and not having to cook and clean up is very appealing. The kids love it too! But, let's face it - it adds up! But there are affordable options, especially in the summer time.

Did you know that many school districts open up the cafeteria in the summer time and feed kids under the age of 18 for FREE? They do! And adults can purchase a meal for about $3 - so 4 hot meals for $3? Pretty darn good deal! Sometimes, I'll just bring a sandwich, so it's completely free. Today was macaroni and cheese day, so I had to eat too. I don't care what anyone says - school macaroni and cheese is the best!

For treats, keep an eye open while going through the Sunday paper coupons for freebies. Just this last week's alone there were 2 Taco Bell coupons for FREE limeade sparklers and FREE "margarita" frutistas (not to worry - they are non alcoholic!) AND there were Krispy Kreme coupons for a free lemon creme doughnut - no purchase necessary for any of these things!!

So, today, we swung by Taco Bell for our limeade sparklers - the kids were excited b/c we NEVER go to Taco Bell (Bueno all the way!) so it was something new. We ordered our drinks, handed over our coupons....and waited...and waited. Well, apparently the guy forgot about us! I cleared my throat and he got really embarassed. He not only apologized but gave us a big bag of cinnamon twists ON THE HOUSE! WOOHOO - score!

Another option is looking for "Kids eat free" deals at restaurants. The ones I know of off the top of my head are IHOP (this deal comes and goes though - so call your store first), and El Chico (.99 kids meals all day Thursday) I am going to research a list on kids eat free deals for my next blog update - so stay tuned!

Picked up my freebies at Homeland today...6/08/10

ALL this for......wait for it.....$12!! One of my best weeks, I think! I actually went on Sunday too, but I didn't take a picture, and I've used a lot of it already. So, this is just from today.
2 24pks Nestle bottled water @ 2.99 ea - 1.00/2 IP (www.coupons.com) = 1.99 each
8 pkg Yakisoba noodle dinners @ 1.00 ea - 1.00/2 newspaper coupon = ALL FREE
2 bags Malt O Meal cereal @ 2.00 - 1.00 coupon I got in the mail when I complimented the company = BOTH FREE
4 bottles Xtra laundry detergent (I never knew the cheap stuff could smell so good too!) @ 2.99 ea - 1.00 newspaper coupon = .99 each
1 bottle Pert Plus shampoo @ 2.50 (used raincheck) - 1.00 newspaper coupon = .50
2 bags Kraft 100 caloried cheese bites @ 2.99 ea - 1.00 IP (www.coupons.com) = .99 ea
2 boxes Blue Bunny Star Bars @ 1.69 ea - 1.00 IP (www.bluebunny.com) = FREE plus .31 back on each
2 boxes Blue Bunny Big Fudge bars @ 1.69 ea - 1.00 IP (www.bluebunny.com) = FREE plus .31 back on each
2 bottles Wishbone salad dressing @ 1.59 ea - .75 newspaper coupon = .09 ea
2 bags New York croutons @ .99 ea (used raincheck) - .50 newspaper coupon = BOTH FREE
8 pkg Bar S hot dogs @ .99 ea - 1.00/2 newspaper coupon = ALL FREE
4 pkg Chinet napkins @ 1.59 ea - .75 newspaper coupon = .09 ea
2 bottles KC Masterpiece bbq sauce @ 1.09 ea - 1.00 newspaper coupon = BOTH FREE plus .91 back on each!!
2 pkg Hormel compleats dinners @ 2.00 ea - .55 newspaper coupon = .90 each
1 tub Best Life butter @1.19 - 1.00 newspaper coupon = FREE plus .81 back!
1 can diced tomatoes @ .79 - no coupon, just needed it

Total spent = a little over $12
Total saved = about $83! (about 90%!)


Don't know if this is very readable - but here is the "proof" - Top 2 receipts show 93% savings at the bottom and the bottom 2 show 85% and 93%!

Give this a try and see how much you can save!

I'm getting eaten out of house and home!

I got this idea from a friend, but it's a really good one! My kids are always (especially during the summer) telling me they are "starving." And somehow I seem to always run out of their favorite snacks before the next shopping trip. Sooooo, I bought some 1 gallon plastic containers at Walmart, some letter stickers and cutesy stickers (hamsters for Nat, goldfish for Em, and race cars for Stephen.) I put their names down the front with the letter stickers. Then I filled their containers with 14 snacks - enough for 2 snacks per day. If they decide to eat 5 snacks in one day, then they will soon figure out that they may not have enough for the rest of the week. I hope this will teach them the skill of "rationing", lol.

I used individually wrapped snacks such as rice krispy treats, chips, slim jims, trail mix, crackers, as well as some snacks I portioned out myself into snack size ziploc bags. I also put "vouchers" for cold items, such as pudding.

This is the weekly supply of cold snacks: pudding, jello fruit cups, string cheese, yogurt and cheese bites.

Thanks to Jennifer W. for the idea!

Memorial Day at Homeland 5/31/10

Pretty good stuff to be found this week - lots of picnic type stuff for Memorial Day.

1 pkg extra lean ground beef - 3.67 - 2.00 IP (www.redriverranchangus.com) = 1.67
1 pkg extra lean stew meat - 3.23 - 2.00 IP = 1.23
1 pkg extra lean stew meat - 3.11 - 2.00 IP = 1.11
1 pkg angus steaks - 3.89 - 2.00 IP = 1.89
1 pkg Hormel pork chops -4.62 - 1.00 newspaper coupon = 2.62
4 bottles Best Life butter spray (this stuff is pretty good! PERFECT for corn on the cob!) - 1.76 - 1.00 newspaper coupon = FREE plus .24!
1 box Tornadoes @ 2.69 - 1.00 newspaper coupon = .69
4 boxes Edwards singles desserts @ 2.00 each - 1.00 newspaper coupon = FREE
2 bags Kraft 100 calorie cheese snacks (our new addiction!) - 2.99 - 1.00 IP (www.coupons.com) = .99
2 bags Sargento reduced sodium shredded cheese @ 2.37 - .75 newspaper coupon = .87 each
4 bags Louisiana Fish Fry seasoning mix @ 1.00 each - 1.00/2 newspaper coupon = FREE
Friskies cat treats @ 1.79 - 1.00 IP (www.coupons.com) = FREE
2 boxes Cocoa Puffs @ 2.50 each - 1.00/2 IP (www.coupons.com) = 1.50 each
2 boxes Smart Taste spaghetti @ 1.50 each - .75 IP (www.ronzonismarttaste.com) = FREE
4 Maruchen Yakisoba noodles @ 1.00 each - 1.00/2 newspaper coupon = FREE
4 bottles KC Masterpiece bbq sauce @ 1.29 each - 1.00 newspaper coupon = FREE
3 jars Vlasic pickles @ 2.00 each - .55 IP (www.tastewhatavlasiccando.com) = .90
3 boxes Taco Bell taco shells @ 1.00 each - 1.00/3 All You magazine coupon = 3/1.00
4 cans Taco Bell refried beans @ 1.00 each - 1.00/2 IP (www.coupons.com) = FREE
4 boxes Kraft Deluxe macaroni and cheese @ 2.00 each - .55 peelie coupon found on pkg = .90
4 pkg Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh lunch meat @ 2.99 - 1.00 IP (www.kraftbrands.com/goodmoodmission) = .99
2 pkg Oscar Mayer Deli Creations @ 2.49 - 1.00 newspaper coupon = .49

Total spent = about $32
Total saved = about $120! That's about 84% off!

Hope everyone had a very happy Memorial Day weekend - remember that the meaning of the holiday is not cookouts and sales - it is remembering the men and women who sacrificed so much for our freedom!

Homeland Coupon/Sale Matchups May 19-25

Bar S bologna or cotto salami @ 1.00 - 1.00/2 newspaper coupon = FREE
Tony's Crispy Crust Pizza @ 1.00 - 1.00/2 newspaper coupon = FREE
Hamburger, Chicken or Tuna Helper @ 1.00 - .75/3 newspaper coupon or .75/3 IP (www.pillsbury.com) = 1.50/3 (.50 each)
Van Camp's 28 oz can pork and beans @ 1.00 - .30/3 newspaper coupon = 2.40/3 (.80 each)
Oscar Mayer chopped ham or turkey lunchmeat @ 2.99 - 1.00/2 newspaper coupon = 1.99 each
Sargento Salad Finishers @ 2.50 - .75 newspaper coupon = 1.00
Eggland's best eggs @ 1.99 - .35 newspaper coupon = 1.29
Yoplait yogurt @ .50 - .40/6 newspaper coupon = 2.20/6
Edy's ice cream @ 2.99 - 1.00/2 newspaper coupon = 1.99 each
Nesquik syrup @ 1.00 - 1.00/2 newspaper coupon = FREE
Mezzetta jarred peppers @ 1.00 - .50 newspaper coupon = FREE
Dawn dish soap @ 1.00 - .25 newspaper coupon = .50

Homeland 5/16/10

Ok, first off, I TOTALLY meant to post matchups this week - really, I did. But, it was kind of a bad week for me - getting over bronchitis and horrible neck pain made me feel like not doing much of anything. Excuses, excuses, I know. I'll try to do better next time.

I spent more than usual this week, but just LOOK at all this stuff! And it's all stuff that I really needed, and will use very soon! Still, all this for about $60 including lots of meat, cheese, milk, etc. They were having a big BOGO (buy one, get one free) sale. Here's the great deal - you DON'T have to get 2 items - they actually just take off 50%!

4 jars Classico spaghetti sauce (BOGO) at 1.64 each - 1.00/2 IP (www.classico.com) = .64 each
2 boxes Zatarain's jambalaya kit (BOGO) at 1.09 each - .50/2 mailer q = .59 each
2 bags Wacky Mac pasta @ 1.55 - .50 newspaper q = .55 each
Friskies cat treats @ 1.89 - 1.00 IP (www.coupons.com) = FREE
Kraft extreme cheese mac and cheese @ 1.39 - freebie coupon from company for "liking" them on facebook = FREE
Smart Taste spaghetti @ 1.69 - 1.00 coupon from Parents magazine = FREE
2 pkg Lance sandwich crackers (BOGO) @ 1.66 each - 1.00 IP (www.smartsource.com) = FREE
4 boxes Capn Crunch (my guilty pleasure!) (BOGO) @ 2.24 - .50 newspaper q = 1.24 each
4 boxes Kellogg's cereal (BOGO) @ 2.14 each - 1.00/2 coupon found in another pkg = 1.14 each
1 box Kitten Chow - freebie newspaper q = FREE
4 boxes Nutri Grain bars (BOGO) @ 1.79 each - 1.00/2 coupon found in another pkg = .79 each
1 gallon Borden milk @ 3.77 - .75 IP (www.bordenonline.com) = 2.27
6 bottles Nesquik strawberry milk (BOGO) at .79 each - 1.00/2 newspaper q = FREE
4 bags Kraft 100 calorie cheese packs @ 2.99 - 1.00 newspaper q = .99 each
8 pkg Bar S hot dogs @ .99 each - 1.00/2 newspaper q = FREE
Oscar Mayer lunch meat @ 2.99 - freebie coupon from company b/c Billy found mold in a previous pkg of Deli Creations - yuck! - FREE
2 pkg Fast Fixin' breaded chicken @ 5.99 - 1.00 All You magazine q = 3.99 each
4 pkg Sargento shredded cheese (BOGO) @ 2.14 each - .75 newspaper q = .64 each
4 pkg Kotex @ .69 each (raincheck for previous sale) - 1.50/2 newspaper q = FREE
Totino's pizza rolls (BOGO) @ 1.12 - .50 mailer q = .12
4 boxes El Monterey Tornadoes @ 2.69 each - 1.00 newspaper q = .69 each
4 pkg Yoplus yogurt (BOGO) @ 1.39 each - .50 newspaper q = .39 each
Dole Sensations juice @ 2.00 (raincheck) - 1.00 newspaper q = FREE
4 pkg Oscar Mayer Deli Creations sandwiches @ 2.49 each - 1.00 newspaper q = .49
1 pkg seasoned hamburger patties - 2.87
4 pkg stew meat @ about 3.11 each - 2.00 IP = about 1.11 per pkg
2 boxes Edy's fruit bars (BOGO) @ 2.29 each - 1.00/2 All You q = 1.29 each

Total spent = about $58
Total saved = about $163!! approx 78% off!

My Homeland deals 5/08/10

A good week at Homeland! ALL this was only from 2 transactions (I usually do 4 per trip, but I only had time for 2 today). I am actually planning on going back tomorrow, because there will be some coupons in tomorrow's paper that will match up with the sale! Once again, here is the abbreviation code key: q = coupon, mailer = coupons that come in mail from manufacturer, newspaper q = Sunday paper coupon, IP = internet printable, x2 or x4 etc = times 2, times 4, etc, peelie = peelable coupon found on package.

1 Yoplait yogurt @ .40 - .25 mailer q = FREE plus .10 overage
8 Yoplait yogurt @ .40 each - 1.00/8 mailer q = 8/1.20
4 Nesquik syrup @ 1.00 each - 1.00/2 newspaper q x 2 = 4/FREE
6 boxes Purina kitten chow @ 2.15 each - FREE product newspaper q x 6 = 6/FREE
2 pkg marinated strip steaks (3 steaks in each) - BOGO free - about 6.00 each (no q)
2 boxes Orville Redenbacher popcorn @ 2.50 each - .75 newspaper q x 2 = 1.00 each
2 packs Juicy Juice boxes @ 2.00 each - 1.00 IP = 1.00 each
2 Friskies cat treats @ 1.89 - 1.00 IP = 2/FREE plus .22 overage
2 pkg Always @ 2.99 each - 1.00 newspaper q = .99 each
1 Hamburger Helper @ 1.59 - 1.00 mailer q = FREE plus .41 overage
1 Crest toothpaste @ .99 - 1.00 mailer q = FREE plus 1.00 overage
1 Crest toothpaste @ .99 - .75 newspaper q = FREE plus .51 overage
2 bags Hershey's Bliss @ 3.00 each - 1.00 newspaper q = 1.00 each
2 jars Emerald peanuts @ 2.50 each - 1.00 peelie = .50 each
2 bags Tidy Cat kitty litter @ 2.49 each - 1.00 IP = .49 each
2 Dole Sensation juice @ 2.00 (with raincheck from a couple weeks ago) - 1.00 newspaper q = 2/FREE
2 Welch's juice @ 2.49 each - 1.00 IP = .49 each
1 Banquet chicken pot pie @ .75 - .50 mailer q = FREE plus .25 overage
2 boxes Ideal sweetener @ 1.00 each - 1.00 IP = 2/FREE plus 2.00 overage
2 Kotex liners @ .69 each (used raincheck from couple weeks ago) - 1.50/2 newspaper q = 2/FREE plus .12 overage
2 Pantene hairspray @ 2.01 each - 1.00 newspaper q = .01 each
2 Sure deoderant @ 1.50 each - 1.00 newspaper q = 2/FREE plus 1.00 overage
4 packs Dole fruit cups @ 2.00 each - .75/2 newspaper q = 1.25 each
2 Land o Frost deli turkey @ 2.00 each - 1.00 IP = 2/FREE
2 Edwards Singles apple pies @ 1.99 each - 1.00 newspaper q = 2/FREE
1 Ivory soap @ 1.49 - 1.00 mailer q = FREE plus .51 overage
2 packs Hormel pork cube steak @ 2.07 each - 1.00 IP = .07 each
hot dog buns @ 1.49 (no q)
2 pkg Wacky Mac noodles @ 1.00 each - .50 IP = 2/FREE

Total spent = $36.68 (and this included 6 steaks bought without coupons and $7 of tax!)
Total saved = $144!!! (about 85% off!)

First cookout of the season!

One of the things I love the most about the early summer days is grilling out in the backyard and eating at our picnic table that my dad made for us. It was a perfect day for it - not too hot, not too cold, and not too many bugs! We had marinated steak, hot dogs, pasta salad, potato salad, and baked beans - yum!

This is the go cart that my dad made for Stephen. They had a Grampy/grandson day and Stephen got to help paint it. He has been having fun riding it!

Natalie is a good big sister pushing him around.

Emily likes to ride it too!

Homeland weekly matchups - week of 5/05 - 5/11

IP = internet printable
manu q = Sunday newspaper coupon
mailer q = coupon received in the mail from company
q = coupon
x2, x4 etc = times 2, times 4, etc. (multiples of the same coupon)

Edwards pie singles @ 1.99
- 1.00 manu q = FREE

McCormick vanilla extract @ 1.00
-1.00 manu q = FREE

Crest kids toothpaste @ .99
-.50 manu q = FREE

Sure deoderant @ 1.50
-1.50 manu q = FREE

Tampax tampons @ 2.99
- 1.00 manu q = .99

Always pads @ 2.99
- 1.00 manu q = .99

Lean Cuisine @ 2.00
-1.00/5 manu q = 5/8.00

El Monterey burrito family pack @ 2.99
-.55 manu q = 1.89

Yoplait yogurt @ .40
-.40/6 manu q = 6/1.60

Special K cereal BOGO
-1.00 manu q or -1.00/2 IP (www.coupons.com)

Welch's juice @ 2.49
-1.00 IP (www.coupons.com) = .49

Wesson cooking oil @ 2.29
-.25 manu q = 1.79

Dole fruit bowls @ 2.00
-.75/2 manu q = 1.25 each

Welch's fruit snacks @ 2.00
-.40 manu q = 1.20

Olay body wash @ 3.49
-1.00 manu q = 1.49

Sara Lee bread @ 1.49
-.75 IP (become a fan on facebook and print the coupon)= FREE

Ideal low calorie sweetener @ 1.00
-1.00 IP (www.idealsweet.com) = FREE

Nesquik syrup @ 1.00
-.50 manu q = FREE

Capri Sun @ 1.99
-1.00 manu q = FREE

Hormel always tender pork chops @ 2.19 lb
-1.00 IP (www.hormel.com) = 2.00 off pkg

Blue Bell ice cream @ 3.99
-1.00 IP (www.bluebell.com) = 1.99

Imperial sugar @ 1.89
-.50 manu q = .89

Wack Mac pasta - 1.00
-.50 IP (www.coupons.com) = FREE

Land o Frost lunchmeat @ 2.99
-1.00 IP (www.landomoms.com) = .99

Sunchips or Rold Gold pretzels @ 3.00
-.55 manu q = 1.90

Homeland 5/02/10

Sorry I didn't get to post the coupon matchups in advance. Between having bronchitis and trying to finish up classes, it's been a tough week. Once school is out, I will be able to devote more time to reporting deals!

Here is what I got at Homeland today - all for about $28:

2 packs Activia yogurt @ 2.00 - 1.00 coupon from inside a Kellogg's cereal box x 2 = 2/FREE
2 bottles Downy fabric softener @ 3.79 - 1.00 manu coupon x 2 = 1.79 each
4 boxes Nestle Drumsticks @ 2.99 each - 1.00 manu coupon x 4 = .99 each
4 boxes Kraft Deluxe mac and cheese @ 1.99 each - .55 peelie coupon from box x 4 = .89 each
4 boxes Ritz Munchables @ 2.50 each - 1.00 IP (no longer available) = .50 each
2 boxes Cocoa Puffs cereal @ 2.50 each - 1.00/2 manu coupon = 1.50 each
2 Garnier Fructis shampoo @ 2.50 each - 1.00 manu coupon = .50 each
2 Garnier Fructis hairspray @ 2.50 each - 1.00 manu coupon = .50 each
2 boxes Parkay butter sticks @ .99 each - .75/2 manu coupon = .24 each
4 Friskies party mix kitty treats @ 1.75 each - 1.00 manu coupon = 4/FREE
1 Temptations kitty treats @ 1.89 - 1.00 manu coupon = FREE
4 jars Bertolli pasta sauce @ 2.00 each - .75 manu coupon = .50 each
6 packs Juice Juice boxes @ 1.66 each - 1.00/2 IP (www.nestlefamily.com) = .66 each
1 Edy's fun flavors single serving @ 1.50 - Freebie coupon that the register printed out = FREE

Total spent - about $28
Total saved - about $103!!!

Target deals 5/01/10

This was my first trip to Target after quite awhile. I almost forgot how easy it is to get great deals there! Here is the big secret to getting mega deals at Target - you can COMBINE their store coupons with manufacturer coupons! You can find store coupons on the target website - www.target.com (coupons link is at bottom of home page). They also frequently mail out store coupons. So, here is what all I got today...

4 bags of Purina ProPlan cat food - .99 - manu coupon for FREE product x 4 = 4/FREE

4 pkg Carefree @ .94 each - 1.00 manu coupon x 4 = 4/FREE plus .06 back on each

4 boxes Snuggle dryer sheets @ 4.29 each - 1.50 Target coupon x 2 and 3.00 manu coupon x 4 = 4/2.16

4 travel size Dove deoderant @ .97 each - 1.00 manu coupon x 4 = 4/FREE plus .03 back on each

1 travel size Dove body wash @ .97 - 1.00 manu coupon = FREE plus .03

1 Suave 2 in 1 kids shampoo @ 2.17 - 1.00 Target coupon and .75 manu coupon = .42

1 Glade candle @ 2.49 - 1.00 Target coupon and .75 manu coupon = .74

1 large bottle Palmolive dish soap @ 2.74 - 1.00 Target coupon and .75 manu coupon = .99

4 small bottles Palmolive @ 1.32 each - .75 manu coupon x 4 = .57 each

2 packages Kotex @ .94 each - 1.00 manu coupon x 2 = 2/FREE plus .06 back each (this is how dedicated I am to showing my deals - that I show the embarassing stuff too...)

Total spent INCLUDING tax: $8.92!

Weekend shopping

This is all from Homeland. It wasn't as great a week as usual, at least quantity wise. But, what I did get was really cheap! Most of these deals were listed in my matchup post earlier this week, except for the Capri Sun - those were on sale for 1.99 and I used a $1.00 coupon from this week's paper to make them free. So I'm not going to list it all out. I got all of this for a total of about $6.50!!! Total saved was $80 (about 97% off!!)

I also went to Kohl's and used a $10 coupon I got in the mail to get a 2 piece outfit for Stephen for free! Didn't even have to pay tax! Then Natalie and I went to Aeropostale and each used a $10 coupon and got her 2 shirts for free!

Free Aeropostale clothes!

Go to www.aeropostale.com to print a $10 off coupon (minimum purchase of $10). The link is on the lower right side of the home page. You can print this as many times as you want! Can't beat free clothes!

Homeland Coupon/Sale Matchups April 21 - 27

Here is a list of some of the things on sale at Homeland this week matched with coupons that can make them a pretty good deal. Remember, you can look for the manufacturer coupons on clipping websites as I mentioned in the previous post!

IP = internet printable
manu q = manufacturer coupon (look for the coupon on www.thecouponclippers.com if you don't already have them)

Pilgrim's pride drumsticks or thighs - .99/lb
-.55 IP (www.pilgrimspride.com) = 1.10 off per package

Green Works laundry detergent - 4.39
-.75 IP (www.allyou.com) = 2.89 or
-1.50 manu q = 2.89

Green Works all purpose cleaner - 2.99
-.75 IP (www.allyou.com) = 1.49

Hot Pockets - 1.66
-.75 manu q (off Side Shots variety only) = .16

Lay's potato chips - 1.50
-1.00 manu q (only off "new" flavors, so will have to see if those are included) = FREE

Bar-S hot dogs - .99
-1.00/2 IP (www.bar-s.com) = 2/FREE

Bar-S bologna or salami - 1.29
-1.00/2 IP (www.bar-s.com) = .29 each

Land O Frost premium lunch meat - 2.99
-1.00 IP (www.landomoms.com) = .99
or .55 manu q = 1.89

Jimmy Dean fully cooked sausage - 2.99
-1.00 manu q = .99

Banquet family size entrees - 2.49
-.75 manu q = .99

Silk soymilk - 2.99
-1.00 manu q = .99

Pillsbury crescent rolls, biscuits, cinnamon rolls - 1.00
there are so many manu q's I can't list them all

Keebler Pecan Sandies cookies - 2.50
-.55 manu q = 1.40

Kool Aid fun fizz - 1.50
-1.00 manu q = FREE plus overage

Juicy Juice - 2.50
-1.00/2 IP (www.nestlefamily.com) = 1.50 each

Kellogg's Smart Start cereal - 3.00
-1.00 manu q = 1.00

Wishbone salad dressing - 1.66
-.75 manu q = .16

Kellogg's fruit snacks - 2.00
-1.00 IP (www.snackpicks.com) = FREE

Arm and Hammer dryer sheets - 2.50
-1.00/2 manu q = 1.50 each

Herbal Essences shampoo or conditioner - 2.66
-1.00 manu q = .66

Olay body wash - 3.50
-1.00 manu q = 1.50

Kotex liners - .69
-1.50/2 manu q = FREE

Nexcare bandages - 1.99
-.55 manu q = .89

Ocean Spray juice - 2.50
-1.00 (on fruit and veggie variety only) manu q = .50

Bumble Bee tuna pouches - 1.00
-.55 manu q = FREE

Success rice - 1.50
-1.00/2 manu q = .50

Nesquik syrup - 1.00
-1.00 manu q (found in flyer at Homeland on a display case near the registers) = FREE

Rice a Roni or Pasta Roni - 1.00
-1.00/3 manu q = .33 each

If you don't want to clip....then click!

So many people tell me that they just don't have time to clip coupons. Well, that excuse just isn't going to cut it! (ha ha, get it? cut it?) Did you know that there are actually people out there who will cut coupons that you want and mail them to you?? Well, they are called coupon clipping services, and they DO exist! The one I have used in the past is http://www.thecouponclippers.com/. You can do a search for the product you want a coupon for, and choose the quantity and for as little as .03 each, they are sent to you within a couple days. Yes, you are paying for the coupons, but it's no more expensive than buying newspapers, and you can choose to get only the ones that you want. But, here's the best part...you look at your sale ads, search for coupons for the items on sale, order the coupons that will net the best deals, and in a couple days they arrive already clipped in your mailbox!

So, no more excuses!

Menu Planning Monday!!

It's that time again! I have to tell you that usually I Dread (yes, with a capital D) planning the menu and grocery list. I really did. But, since I started doing this, I look forward to it! It's a new challenge to see how cheap I can get, and what new recipes I can find using my bargains!

Monday - Drip Beef sandwiches (www.thepioneerwoman.com) We have had these before, and it is goooo-ooood. This week Reasor's has arm roasts on sale buy one, get one free. They only had big double roast packs when I went, so I ended up with 4 big roasts for $15. A darn good price for roast. So, I will have 3 more for future menus. Will serve with mac and cheese, since I have one pseudo vegetarian child, and probably some fruit. Total cost - about $6, and this will provide lots of leftovers for lunches.

Tuesday - Chicken chili - from All You magazine: I already had the ingredients on hand because I had planned it a few weeks ago, and never got around to making it. Will serve with Jiffy cornbread. I would guess the total cost to be about $4.50.

Wednesday - Pizza Spaghetti Casserole (www.ivillage.com), garlic bread, and broccoli. I needed to use up some pepperoni that I've had in the freezer for awhile. I think this will be very kid friendly. I already had the spaghetti and sauce on hand as well. Garlic bread is from my free rolls stash and broccoli was about .30 on sale. Total cost - about $6.

Thursday - Chicken and Dumplings (www.allrecipes.com), green beans. Using free cream of chicken, and using my stash of chicken breasts - all I had to buy for it this week was the biscuits! Total cost about $2.50.

Friday - Scalloped Ham and Potatoes (www.kraftrecipes.com), zucchini and squash saute - I needed to use up some ham I've had in the freezer for a long time. I have a stash of sour cream I need to use up too, and using that velveeta I got on sale today. Total cost - about $6.

Saturday - French Dips and curly fries. Using some hoagie buns from the freezer, deli roast beef from a prior sale, and fries I got for .69 a bag. Total cost - about $4.69.

Sunday - Sausage Potato Casserole and fruit. Using up some smoked sausage from the freezer and hash browns from last weeks' sale. Total cost about $2.50.

So, about $26 for the week, and I'm freeing up some space in my freezer! Again, if you want any specific recipes, just let me know and I will post it!

Homeland week of April 14 - 20

This is my haul for today. Don't mind the trash can in the background that needs to be taken out. It is pouring rain, and I will melt if I run out to the trashcan, lol! I got all this bounty for $25:
1 box of Friskies @ 1.89. Ok, I did not have a coupon for this, but Chloe's got to eat!
4 packages Lance sandwich crackers @ 1.66 - 1.00 (www.smartsource.com) = 4/FREE plus .34 back on each
4 bags Lay's chips @ 2.99 - 1.00 = .99 each
2 packages Jello cups @ 2.50 - .75 (www.coupons.com) = 1.00 each
4 packages Deli Creations sandwiches @ 2.49 - 1.00 (www.goodmoodmission.com) = .49 each
1 box Nature Valley granola bars @ 2.29 - .40 = 1.49
6 boxes Hamburger Helper @ 1.00 - .75/3 = .50 each (we really don't eat these, so I will put them aside for donation)
2 boxes Crystal Light @ 1.89 - 1.00 = 2/FREE plus .11 back on each
1 Finish dishwasher cleaner @ 2.21 - 1.00 = .21
4 bags Temptations cat treats @ 1.89 each - 1.00 = 4/FREE plus .11 back on each
2 packages Bar-S hot dogs @ .99 - 1.00/2 (www.bar-s.com) = 2/FREE
2 bottles Ocean Spray fruit and veggie juice @ 2.50 - 1.00 = .50 each
2 boxes Oreo Cakesters @ 2.99 - 1.00 = .99 each
2 boxes Betty Crocker potatoes @ 1.00 - .40 (www.coupons.com) = .20 each
1 lb. Velveeta @ 4.59 (pricy, but needed this week anyway) - .55 = 3.49
2 packages Dannon Crush cups @ 2.39 - 1.00 = .39 each

Total spent = $25
Total saved = $95

Transferring prescriptions - another way to get free stuff!

So, I wasn't going to post anything today - I have SO much homework to do this week (final 3 weeks!), but I had to mention this before I forgot. Many pharmacies will offer gift cards for transferring your prescription (or bringing in a new one) to their pharmacy (however, you do need to make sure the pharmacist is aware of what medications you are taking, and your medical history). Between Billy and I, we have 6 regular prescriptions (darn Oklahoma allergies!) I keep an eye out for these offers and transfer to whoever has the current offer. The 3 places I transfer between is Target - they offer $10 gift cards for each prescription with the coupon in their Sunday ad, which appears about once a month; Walgreen's, who will send you a coupon for a $25 gift check AFTER you transfer away from them, and Reasor's, who have been just recently putting coupons for a $25 gift card in the mid week circulars. Yes, sometimes it gets confusing and it is sometimes even inconvenient, BUT if you have a lot of prescriptions - you can make a mint! Today I transferred 2 prescriptions from Target to Walgreen's and I will get $50 in gift cards! If you combine this with some good sales and coupons, you can get LOTS of stuff with that $50! With Target, I've already gotten $80 so far this year - I am saving them for Christmas! Last year, I was able to get Natalie a brand new digital camera with those gift cards.

Even if you don't have any or many prescriptions - look for and save these coupons. You never know when someone in the household will come down with something and need an antibiotic or something!

Menu Planning Monday

I'll admit up front, this is not my own idea - I got this idea from one of my favorite websites, www.918couponqueen.com. But it is an awesome one! We all sometimes get in a cooking rut, getting tired of eating the same things week after week, and maybe spending too much at the grocery store in the process. What I try to do when planning my menus, is take into consideration what I have on hand from my couponing trips and plan my menu around this. If I don't have any recipes already, I will search on www.allrecipes.com, or www.kraftrecipes.com. You can type in some ingredients you have on hand, and it will bring up recipes containing those ingredients. I will try to post my menu every week, along with a breakdown of costs for the meal. Hopefully, it will give some new ideas to those "stuck in a rut!"

Sunday - Hawaiian Pizza (using Canadian bacon I got for free) I used a pizza kit from Walmart that had 2 premade crusts, and 2 packets of pizza sauce, the canadian bacon, and pineapple tidbits. We had some grapes on the side. - total cost - $5.00 or $1.00 per person

Monday - Orange Chicken, rice, and egg rolls. The orange chicken is from the Wanchai Ferry dinner kit that I got for 1.00 per box. For our family, I use 2 boxes. The rice is included in the kit. I have chicken breasts stockpiled from when they were on sale for 3.99/3 lb bag. So, total cost - about $6.00 or $1.20 per person.

Tuesday - Easy, Cheesy Zucchini Bake (search on www.allrecipes.com) got the zucchini for free at Reasor's using a $25 gift card I got with a prescription transfer, spaghetti sauce I had in my stockpile, cheese I got for about .49 a package. I plan on serving tomato and cucumber salad and some rolls I got for free from my stockpile with this. Total cost = about $5.00 or $1.00/person.

Wednesday - Breakfast for dinner! Banana pancakes, eggs, and sausage. Pancake mix and sausage from my stockpile - got for free. Total cost = about $2.00 or .40/person.

Thursday - Grilled turkey and cheese sandwiches w/ tomato soup; fruit on the side. Sliced turkey was already on hand - purchased for about .50/package, cheese and bread were free. Tomato soup (Campbell's Select Harvest) .50/can. Total cost = about $2.00 or .40/person.

Friday - Chicken Piccatta, broccoli, garlic rolls. Chicken Piccatta is a Romano's Macaroni Grill dinner kit bought for $1.00/box (I use 2), chicken from stockpile, broccoli about .30 for bag, and rolls were free. Total cost = about $3.30 or about .66/person.

Saturday - Crisp and Creamy Chicken (shake and bake chicken then mix can of cream of celery soup w/ 1/2 cup milk, pour over chicken, then sprinkle with cheese and bake an additional 10 minutes.), mixed veggies, and rice. The shake and bake I got for free (and actually got paid 1.00 per box for!) soup was free, rice was about .30 and veggies about .30. Total cost = about $2.10 or .42/person.

Sunday - Hungarian Goulash over noodles and green beans - Goulash is stew meat (got for free w/ that Reasor's gift card), diced tomatoes (.08 per can), onion, sour cream (free), and a few seasonings. Total cost = about $2.50 or .50/person.

So, there you have it - a week of thrifty, but delicious dinners, for 5 people, for about $28. If anyone wants a specific recipe, shoot me a message, and I will send it to you!

Family picnic in the park - a great, thrifty way to entertain the family!

I am always looking for ways to spend fun quality time with the family that doesn't cost an arm and a leg. When my sister-in-law suggested a family picnic at Woodward park, I thought it was an awesome idea! Not only did it not cost a thing, but we all had a great time together, and we got some great photos! The weather was beautiful and the flowers were in full bloom! Just a great day altogether!

Here is my Stephen among the azaleas.

Natalie snuggling with her little cousin, Payton. They are great buddies!

Our young lady!

Emily in the azaleas

A couple of handsome guys, Stephen and cousin Evan

My mom and dad in law, Gene and Carol

My little niece, Addi

Billy's Grandma Shirley and Grandpa James

This is 4 generations right here!

I love this picture on the bridge!

So, if you're looking for something fun to do on a lovely Tulsa spring day - head to Woodward park!

Homeland deals 4/7 - 4/13 plus an explanation of their coupon rules

I heart Homeland, really. Being the only store in this area that doubles up to $1.00 EVERY day, they are very instrumental in my deal nabbing. For those reading who are not in OK, call around or research online to find similar stores in your area. I am going to go through their rules, because they are very important. First and foremost - PLEASE use coupons correctly. Do not try to "cheat". First, it's just plain wrong, second, you will be busted at some point, and third, those cheaters mess up the deals for everyone else causing stores to be more strict about coupons. So, now you know that my major use of coupons is completely legal - some places (ahem, Walmart) can make you feel like you are trying to steal, by using coupons to get things for free, but, well, it's just being smart. It takes a lot of brain power to come up with these shopping scenarios!

On your first trip to Homeland, you will need to sign up for a savings card. Don't worry, it's free. And it takes very little time. Just fill out the form, and they hand you a card. That's it. But you have to have it in order to double your coupons.

The main rule you will find is that they will only double 1 LIKE coupon per person. This means, if you have 2 coupons for Oreos for 2 packages of Oreos, they would only double that first coupon and the second would be face value only. So, here's what I do. I bring my wonderful husband and helpful eldest child to do their own transactions. So, we each have a basket, a list, and a stack of coupons. This way we can get 3 of everything and every coupon will double. Some stores will let you separate your transactions to get the same effect, but not all do.

The only other "rule" I can think of is that if a coupon says "do not double" on it, it may or may not double, depending on the cashier, their mood, whether Jupiter aligns with Mars, who knows. Plan on it not doubling, and then if it does, it's an added bonus. The general concensus is that if you look at the barcode at the bottom and it starts with a 5, the computer will double it, and if it starts with a 9 it will not. Doesn't always work, but a lot of times it does.

Ummm, I think that about covers the basics of shopping Homeland. I will post tips as I think of them, and I will try to post the best deals every week.

I think I did pretty awesome today. Once again, I will post the item, sale price minus coupon and final price. If the coupon was a printable coupon, I will post the link so that you all may print the coupons for yourself! Generally, you can print 2 copies per computer. After you print the first time, hit the back button, then refresh, click "retry" and it will print again.

These deals run through Tuesday, April 13th:

12 frozen Banquet dinners @ .99 each - 1.00/4 = .49 each
2 Romano's Macaroni Grill boxed dinners (yummy!) @ 3.00 - 1.00 = 1.00 each
2 boxes Betty Crocker mashed sweet potatoes @ 1.01 each - 1.00/2 = .01 each
3 boxes Kashi TLC bars @ 2.89 each - 1.00 (www.allyou.com) = .89 each
2 boxes Smuckers Uncrustables @ 2.99 - 1.00 (www.uncrustables.com) = .99 each
1 package Borden cheese sensations @ 1.99 - 1.00 (www.friendsofelsie.com) - FREE
3 bags Ore Ida frozen hashbrowns @ 2.69 - 1.00 = .69 each
2 boxes Wanchai Ferry dinner kits (orange chicken - yum!) @ 3.00 - 1.00 = 1.00
3 bottles Era detergent (used raincheck from previous week) @ 3.49 - 1.00 = 1.49
3 bags Rold Gold pretzels @ 2.00 - .55 = .90
2 loaves Nature's Own 100% whole wheat bread @ 1.79 - .75 = .29 each
6 cans Campbell's Select Harvest soup @ 1.00 - .50/2 = .50 each
9 cans Red Gold diced tomatoes @ .75 - 1.00/3 = about .08 a can
1 bottle Best Life butter spray @ .59 - 1.00 = FREE plus 1.41 back!
2 bottles McCormick's grill seasonings @ 1.50 - 1.00 = FREE plus .50 back on each
3 Oscar Mayer Deli Creations @ 2.19 - 1.00 (www.allyou.com) = .19 each
2 packages Land o Frost Canadian bacon @ 1.99 - 1.00 (www.landomoms.com) = FREE
3 Betty Crocker Warm Delights @ 1.50 - .75 = FREE
Pilgrim's Pride split chicken breasts @ 1.89 - .55 (www.pilgrimspride.com) = .79
3 packages Chinet napkins @ 1.59 - .75 = .09 each

Total spent for ALL of this (67 total items!) = $35
Total saved = $138!!!!

So, do you see how all these coupons really add up? :o)

The nitty gritty of "couponing"

Ok, so it's really hard to know where to start when people ask the very broad question of "how do you save so much money?" So, I'm going to just start with the basics and build from there.

So, the #1 biggest way I save money on day to day expenses - good ol' coupons. The majority of people think that coupons are just not worth the time. .50 here, .35 there - just doesn't seem like much, does it? Just do away with that thought now. The key is to make those coupons work for you. What exactly does this mean? Well, that will be the first lesson.

The first step seems pretty obvious - if you want to coupon, you're going to have to GET some. Yes, the Sunday paper is the number one source for finding them. For you locals, I suggest the Daily Oklahoman paper (OKC) which is sold at QT. It has even more than the Tulsa paper. I buy anywhere from 4-6 papers, depending on how many good coupons are in there. But, let's take baby steps. Start with one, until you get the hang of it. Another major source is the internet. Printable coupons are some of the best ones you can find, many of them high dollar savings. Some printable coupon sites are www.smartsource.com, www.coupons.com, www.allyou.com, and www.redplum.com. Another one of my favorite sources is All You magazine found at Walmart near the registers. It is chock full of great coupons every month as well as budget friendly recipes and such. To hit the sales, you've got to be consistent in gathering those coupons, and having them ready. And I suggest clipping all of them. You never know when you might come across a freebie!

So, now that you have them, what do you do with them? Get to know the coupon policies at different stores. My #1 place for deals - Homeland. They DOUBLE coupons up to and including $1.00!! This makes for awesome deals!! There are some rules, though, and we will cover those later. Target is another great place. They offer store coupons that you can print from their website, and sometimes in the mail, and you can actually COMBINE these with your manufacturer coupons. Plus look for those red clearance tags (usually on the endcaps) and try to match coupons to those items. Walmart - I will come right out and say it - is my LEAST favorite place to use coupons. They just plain don't like them, and will fight you on them. But, there are occasionally good deals to be found there, and overall their prices on basic items are generally lower than most places. These are just a few examples to get started.

Ok, next step. Those store ads that come on Sundays and Wednesdays - they are NOT junk mail! They are like your treasure map! And if there is a store that you do not get an ad for (I don't get Homeland's in the mail) you can look them up online. Now, you go through these ads, and find items on sale that you have a coupon for. Now, if it's Homeland, don't forget to double that coupon. Here is an example: Last week, Rhode's heat and serve rolls (very yummy, btw) were on sale for 1.88. I had coupons for 1.00 off 1 package. Double that, and not only do I get the product for free, but they actually paid ME .12 per package! (I got 4, by the way!) How awesome is that?? See, you CAN get something for nothing!!

I don't want to overwhelm you, so I will end the first lesson here. But, give it a try, and see how you do! I would love to hear success stories as well! But, I want to end this lesson with my last Homeland shopping trip, to maybe inspire and motivate you all! I will put the item, sale price minus coupon (keep in mind the doubling) and the final price of the product.

1 gallon Hiland milk @ 3.65 - a FREE coupon received from a prior deal = FREE
1 Wholly guacamole @ 2.00 - 1.00 = FREE
2 Birdseye steamfresh broccoli @ 1.00 - .35 = .30 each
4 boxes Lipton cold brew tea bags - 1.50 - .60 = .30 each
4 packages Borden Sensations cheese slices @ 1.99 - 1.00 = 4/FREE
4 packages Rhode's dinner rolls @ 1.88 - 1.00 = 4/FREE plus .12 back on each
2 boxes Del Monte fruit chillers @ 2.00 - 1.00 = 2/FREE
3 bottles Herbal Essences shampoo @ 2.66 - 1.00 = .66 each
4 boxes Kraft Velveeta shells and cheese @ 2.00 - .55 = .90 each
4 packages Chinet napkins @ 1.59 - .75 = .09 each
4 boxes Ritz Pretzel Munchables @ 2.50 - 1.00 = .50 each
3 bags Tostito's tortilla chips @ 2.50 - 1.00 = .50 each
2 cans Campbell's cream of mushroom soup @ 1.00 - 1.00/2 = 2/FREE
2 Ritz Crackerfuls @ 2.00 - 1.00 = 2/FREE
4 packages Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh lunchmeat @ 2.99 - 1.00/2 = 1.99 each
2 Lunchables lunch kits @ 2.49 - 1.00 = .49 each
2 Rhode's sticky buns @ 1.88 - 1.00 = 2/FREE plus .12 back on each
2 half gallons Blue Bell ice cream @ 3.99 - 1.00 = 1.99 each

Total spent for all this stuff (including tax) - $33
Total saved = $131!!!!! (about 83% off)

Not bad!

Introducing...Stephen!

This is my buddy boy, Stephen. He is 7 years old and in 1st grade. He is an active little guy and he sure has kept us on our toes! He is very affectionate, smart, and imaginative. He is a very good reader, and especially LOVES biographies. His teacher said that he has read every single one in her classroom, and she had to go out and buy more for him! He gets along well with everyone at school, and while he may appear shy at first, he is quick to make friends! Right now, his passions are video games and Star Wars. He has definitely given us some scares over the last 2 years, as he started having fainting spells that have no apparent cause or trigger. We are in the process of trying to find answers - for this month he is on a cardiac monitor to see if we can catch a spell on the monitor and see if it's a rhythm issue. But due to the long stretches of time in between each spell, it's been very hard to catch and figure out. So, prayers are always appreciated! Anyway, we just love this little guy, and we are so proud of him!

Introducing...Emily!

This is Emily, although most of the time we call her Nay-nay. But if anyone else besides us calls her that, she will be very angry! She is 9 years old and in third grade. She is definitely our little diva - she likes everything to be just so, and always has! She is very sweet, and always has a smile on her face. Several school years, she has won the outstanding character award at school, which is voted on by teachers and other students. She has a lot of compassion, and is always the one to befriend the new students and help out those that are having a difficult time. She is very smart too! She tested in the 98th percentile and is in the gifted/talented program at school. Her teacher told us at her last conference that she is the fastest reader she has ever seen. They tested her reading speed, and while 3rd graders are expected to read about 90 words per minute, Miss Emily read 198 words per minute!! AND her comprehension was almost perfect! Her teacher said at that speed she should be an auctioneer. She LOVES learning - especially reading and science. She loves art too. She loves to draw, and write stories with illustrations. She is a sweetie and we are very proud of her!

Introducing....Natalie!

I figure I should probably introduce my children since I will be talking about them - a lot! Most likely if you are reading this blog, you already know them, but, well, I AM a mom, so I'll take every opportunity I get to talk about them! I am going to introduce them one a time, because frankly, I don't have a lot of time, and doing it all at once is rather daunting for me at the moment. So, naturally, I will start with Natalie!

Ah, my firstborn! My practice child (just kidding!) I was so young when I had her (19), barely an adult. But, I think we did a pretty darn good job. She is now 12 years old, and in 6th grade. She has such a sweet personality. She is kind, smart, obedient - basically a dream child! She is VERY outgoing and talkative (gets that from daddy!), hates confrontation, and one of those that gets along with everyone (well, except maybe sometimes her siblings, lol!) She is definitely our social butterfly. She is taking honors classes and pulling all A's. She was the second student this year voted student of the month! She LOVES music - if she isn't talking, she is singing or humming! She definitely did not get her gift of music from me - that is ALL from daddy! She sings with the middle school choir, and has performed in competitions, earning excellent and superior ratings. She has recently discovered a love for tennis, and is playing everyday after school with the school tennis club! She appears to have a talent for it as well! She is becoming such a lovely young lady, and we are very proud of her!

Taking the plunge!

Well, here I am - taking the plunge into the blogging world. Everyone else is doing it, so why not me? Actually, I have been told by a lot of people that I should blog about the deals that I find in my couponing adventures. I would like to make this blog not just about "the deals," but also about my family, and how we live our "thrifty" life.

To some people, "thrifty" has a negative connotation. Some people equate "thrifty" to "poor." Well, we are nowhere near being rich, but we certainly are blessed. I think that even if we were millionaires, I would still be hunting for bargains! Not only is it fun and challenging, but I also hope that I am teaching my children about using our resources wisely.

I have always used coupons to some extent. But, it REALLY started about the time that my husband, Billy, was unexpectedly laid off. At the time, I was a stay-at-home mom with a child care license, but not bringing in much money. I was scared - WE were scared. We KNEW that God would provide - but we also knew that we needed to do OUR part. I started looking for every way I could to save money, and get as much as I could, for as little money as possible. I turned to the internet, and started finding tips here and there about how to use coupons to get things for next to nothing. I admit, I was skeptical at first - we all hear "you can't get something for nothing." I gave it a whirl at a local Homeland store, where they double coupons up to and including a dollar. I think my first trip's savings was somewhere around 70%. Well, I was hooked!

Billy's unemployment did not last long, praise God, and things started looking up, but thriftiness became a way of life. It started slowly, but soon snowballed as I learned more and more about "couponing." Now, it is normal for my weekly savings to be in the area of 85 - 90%!

I hope that I can inspire others to use the resources that God has given them to their fullest potential!

A sensible man watches for problems ahead and prepares to meet them. The simpleton never looks, and suffers the consequences. - Proverbs 27:12