Friday, October 30, 2009

Frugal Fridays: Making Your Own Fancy Chai Latte - and Other Hot Drinks

This post is a part of the Frugal Fridays carnival, hosted by Life as Mom.

I know that making one's own fancy hot drinks is a strategy common to frugalistas near and far, but I think it's a habit that's only proliferating in the face of the current state of the economy. People are starting to measure the actual return on investment of $4 drinks, and wondering if they might not get a similar ROI with their own brews and concoctions at home. Even better, most find that they prefer their own drinks because of the ability to control flavor aspects and ingredients to their liking.

Which brings me to the homemade chai latte. Back in my college days, my student union introduced chai lattes, and at around $2/cup for the largest size, I was instantly hooked. Even though it initiallly had to be explained to me as "pumpkin pie in a cup", once I was in the chai-buying groove, I felt so hip and cosmopolitan - not to mention warm and sugar-sated.

But folks? Even $2 for a drink can add up quickly if it's a habit, and mine was quickly becoming one in my college's colder climate. Then one semester, my longtime roommate and chai-loving bosom buddy came back to school with a revelation. Over the break, a friend of hers had taught her how to make chai lattes from scratch at home. What's that? Chai whenever you want - in the comfort of your own dorm room? No cross-campus treks through the cold to spend money on chai? I was mesmerized as she laid out the method (posted here with her permission):

Ingredients for one homemade chai latte:
  • 1 bag plain black tea (you can use decaf black tea for a decaf chai latte!)
  • 1 mug full of milk
  • 6 or 7 cardamom pods, cracked open with any mortar/pestle type method (but not completely crushed)*
  • 3 or 4 whole cloves
  • 1 cinnamon stick (or ground cinnamon)
  • Sugar or Splenda to taste
*Note: I have found these at Whole Foods in a small package in the bulk dry foods section - several hundred pods for around $4.50. I'm willing to guess that they might also be found at Wegmans and international groceries in the area.

My chai master says:

Aficionados would demand that you cook the recipe on the stove, starting with slowly boiling the milk, tea, and sugar, then adding the cardamom pods, the cloves, and the cinnamon stick and simmering the mixture for about 10 minutes. They would also say that Splenda is a horrible product.

You can also dump everything into a mug and microwave it. [...which is exactly what we would do in our dorm rooms...with Splenda!]

OK, so we were not chai purists - but my roommate's recipe removed the aura of mystery from chai lattes - and to this day I see how far I can break down fancy drink concoctions by myself at home. Other ingredients I have been known to add to my homemade chai lattes:
  • Fresh sliced ginger
  • Ground ginger
  • Ground cardamom
  • Nutmeg
Note: one way to keep chai latte seasonings contained is to use a tea infuser (I got mine at IKEA for cheap). Make your drink hot with the black teabag, then add the other ingredients via tea infuser to brew - in other words, don't microwave a metal tea infuser. :) When you're done brewing and ready to drink, all you need to do is remove the teabag and the tea infuser!

If you're having a gathering of friends over and want to impress with fancy drink options, you're in luck! This is the time of year when hot drink mixes and ingredients are marked down for holiday sales - and coupons for them are everywhere. Here's what you need to host a barista gathering on the cheap (I put "couponed!" next to items for which I've seen coupons in the past):
  • Regular ol' coffee (couponed!)
  • Milk (lots)
  • Half and Half (lots)
  • Cans of whipped cream (couponed!)
  • Black tea (couponed!)
  • Cinnamon sticks/ground cinnamon
  • Cardamom pods
  • Cloves
  • Sugar (couponed!)
  • Honey (couponed!)
  • Artificial sweeteners, if desired (couponed!)
  • Flavored syrups (couponed!)
  • Hot chocolate mix (couponed!)
  • Bittersweet chocolate shavings and/or caramel syrup, to sprinkle/drizzle on the top of whipped cream drinks along with cinnamon
This assortment pretty much enables people to make their own coffee, tea, or hot chocolate, adding their dairy product and sweetener of choice, and topping with whipped cream and the aforementioned accoutrements like chocolate shavings and caramel syrup.

If you'd like to make flavored coffee to rival expensive flavored gourmet coffee, check out our classic post on making your own flavored coffee in your coffee pot at home.
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Frugal Fridays: Making Your Own Fancy Chai Latte - and Other Hot DrinksSocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
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Super Savings Saturday: Safeway and CVS

Here's a recap on some shopping deals this past week.

Safeway was running a sale on Wheat Thins and Triscuits for $1.38 a box last Saturday and Sunday. I made a quick run there to stock up on them in preparation for holiday entertaining to come. Using 5 $1/2 boxes coupons I paid just over $9 OOP, and I'll submit the receipt for the $10 rebate Nabisco is offering through 11/30/09. Score! 10 boxes with money in my pocket! Thanks for the tip, Moneywise Moms!

CVS
ran a 2/$4 deal on a variety of bags of fun size candy, so I went there on Tuesday to capitalize on that deal. I used 2 save $1/2 bags of M&M's MFCs, 2 $1/2 Campbell's Soup coupons, and one $.55 Reese's coupon and walked away from CVS with all this for just over $6. We typically have slews of trick-or-treaters, so I've been stockpiling for Saturday. And once every 2 months I drop off a bag of food at our church food pantry, so the soup will be perfect for that.



What deals have you scored this week?
Drop us a comment.
Super Savings Saturday: Safeway and CVSSocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
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Thursday, October 29, 2009

50% Off Any Item at Payless Shoe Source, Tomorrow, 10/30 only!

Via Oprah, you can buy any item at Payless Shoe Source for 50% off using this PDF coupon, good tomorrow, October 30, only! Wooo, what a great deal! Find your local Payless location here.

Thanks, Mommy's Wish List, for the tip!
50% Off Any Item at Payless Shoe Source, Tomorrow, 10/30 only!SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
Ebates and Swagbucks are both easy ways to earn rewards while doing what you normally do - web-searching through Google and shopping for bargains online!

Buyer Review: Purchasing Glasses Online

I wanted to share some positive experiences my family has had with buying glasses online. It took awhile (ok, a year!) for me to come around to this idea for myself, but last year at this time my husband decided to get a written prescription from our optometrist to try buying glasses off the internet. He was tired of paying upwards of $200 for glasses every other year when he wanted new frames, and he researched different glasses websites. He also wanted to buy prescription sunglasses, and they are expensive. The website he selected was 39dollarglasses.com. Since we have now purchased 3 pairs of glasses from there, I thought I'd write a buyer review.

The company claims to be "The World's #1 Online Optical Store" and has positive reviews on its homepage by Readers Digest and The Wall Street Journal. We're WSJ fans, but the price is what caught our attention more than anything. With 3 glasses/contacts wearers in the family, eye care adds up, and we were looking for ways to save. When each pair of glasses was shipped, they came in a fabric pouch placed in a hard black case in a padded mailing envelope.

I am totally won over now to buying glasses online, and here are a few reasons why.
(1) It's easy to view different types of glasses, and you can easily print a PDF file with the glasses shape and hold them up to yourself in a mirror. The website explains how to easily measure your eyes so you know which glasses fit. There is, of course, some risk involved for those who don't know what frame shapes work on their face shapes. I've worn glasses for most of my adult life, so I knew my limitations. If you don't know yours, I'd suggest trying some on at your optometrist when you visit for an exam. Or you could go to a department store that carries a wide selection of sunglasses and reading glasses and try different shapes on to see what works for you. Be creative!

(2) It's easy to enter prescription information. The paper prescription my optometrist gave me matched up exactly with the information needed to place the website order.

(3) It's quick! For my first order, I took my time to print about 4 different glasses frame shapes, look at myself in the mirror, have hubby verify my measurements, etc. Even still, it took me less than 30 minutes. Now that I've placed an order, it would take me less than 10 minutes to order again. Ordering glasses at an optometrist has typically taken 30-60 minutes for me. I appreciate saving time. And the shipping was quick! My glasses arrived only 4 days after I placed the order, via USPS. Can't beat that.

(4) It's affordable to have a few pairs of glasses if you want different styles, prescription sunglasses or just a second pair in case of damage to your favorite glasses. Our toddler wears glasses, and we have a backup pair for him because he is hard on his glasses every day. It's a low-cost way to make sure he is covered if we have to take his glasses in for repair.

(5) You can get money back through Ebates! I was pleasantly surprised to find a coupon code for $12 off my order if I went through Ebates?! Plus I'll get back an additional 4%. I paid $32 for a pair of beautiful glasses, then Ebates will return 4% to me. Wow!

The only downside we've experienced is that we're on our own when it comes to tune-ups or repairs. Our local optometrist who performs our exams has been very generous with replacing nosepieces, doing repairs, etc. for free, but some optometrists might not be so generous to customers who wear glasses that have not been purchased there. To us that risk is worth it; sometimes we're able to do our own repairs at home, and we wouldn't mind having to pay if it came to that. The cost would still be so much less than buying eyeglasses at a store!

Have you had any experiences buying eyeglasses online? Good or bad, please share them here.
Buyer Review: Purchasing Glasses OnlineSocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
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Einstein Bagels: Free Bagel Friday before 11 am!

Thanks to reader Jen for sharing a tip about a free bagel coupon Einstein Bagels has released for Fridays before 11 am through November 3.

If you haven't signed up for the Einstein Bagels e-club, you can do so here to get more coupons and offers throughout the year.

Click here for the coupon, hosted by CouponDad.
Einstein Bagels: Free Bagel Friday before 11 am!SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
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Wednesday, October 28, 2009

5 Reasons to Visit Giant This Week, 10/30-11/05

Well, let me tell you, I can think of 4 very good reasons right off the bat: Dollar Doublers, yeaaaaaaaaaah! Your delivered Giant ad will have four "dollar doubler" coupons that will double the value of any $1 manufacturer coupon in a transaction of $15 or more. These doubler coupons have not usually been available in the in-store ad, so save your delivered ad's doublers. Some seriously good deals on ice cream, cheese, and yoghurt this week. And check out those $0.22 after doubler 6-packs of Fruit2O (below, in green).
  1. Smithfield Sliced Bacon, BOGO
    $0.55/1, 10/25 RP, use two since you're buying two
    Final price: $2.79 for two, or ~$1.40/pack, compared with $4.99/pack retail

  2. Three Day Halloween Sale Deal (10/30-11/1):
    Buy two Tombstone 12" Pizzas, get two Tombstone 12" Pizzas and a Giant Ice Cream FREE. (Must buy all at checkout in one transaction. Limit one offer per transaction.)

    Tombstone Pizza, $1.50/2, 09/27 SS (exp. 10/31)
    Use two coupons since you are buying four
    Get $3 off the cost of two pizzas - to get four pizzas and an ice cream!

  3. Breyers Ice Cream, 2/$6
    $0.75/1, 10/18 RP
    Final price: $1.50/each

  4. Yoplait Yo-Plus 4-packs, 2/$5
    $1/1, coupons.com
    Final price, dollar doubled: $0.50 for 4, or 12.5 cents each!

  5. Kraft Shredded Cheese, all varieties, including Natural, 2/$5
    $1/2 Natural, 10/25 SS, final price dollar doubled: $1.50/bag
    $1/2 printable for Natural, final price dollar doubled: $1.50/bag

  6. BONUS FREEBIE REASONS: Kellogg's Cereals, 2/$4
    Frosted Flakes, Froot Loops, Cocoa Krispies, Rice Krispies, or Raisin Bran
    Raisin Bran, $1.50/2 (same coupon as Frosted Mini-Wheats)
    Final price: $1.25/box
    $1 Froot Loops coupon that came in last Sunday's newspaper packaging with the boxed sample
    Final price with dollar doubler: FREE!

    Pillsbury Toaster Strudel, $2
    $1/1 available here
    Final price with dollar doubler: FREE!

    Bagel Bites, $2
    $1/1 coupon available
    Final price with dollar doubler: FREE!
Here are some other Giant coupon matchups and deals that we spotted for the week of October 30 through November 5.

Front Page

New York Strip Steak, $4.99/lb. (Save $5/lb.)

Whole Boneless Pork Loin, $1.99/lb. (Save at least $1/lb.)

All Purpose Potatoes, 5 lb. bag, $1.77

Tomatoes on the Vine, $1.77/lb.

Green or White Asparagus, $1.77/lb. (Save ~$1.33/lb.!)

SUPER G Homestyle Roasting Chicken, $0.99/lb.

Stouffer's Entrees, 5/$10

Tropicana Pure Premium, 89 oz. jug, $3.99

************

Three Day Halloween Sale, 10/30-11/1

Gala, McIntosh, Red, or Golden Delicious Apples, $0.59/lb. (Save $0.40/lb.)

Lay's Potato Chips, BOGO

************

10/$10 Sale

Pepsi 2 Liter
Progresso Vegetable Classics Soup - see the end of this post for comments from Frugal Friends on some recently-appeared Progresso printable coupons that could bring this down to $0.60-some cents per can of soup! Thanks so much, Laura!
Chobani Greek Yoghurt, B2G1 printable, final price: $0.66/cup
Giant English Muffins
Francesco Rinaldi Pasta Sauce
Pillsbury Moist Cake Mix

Second Page

Shady Brook Farms Turkey Cutlets, $4.59/lb.

Perdue Baked Low Fat Chicken Breast Cutlets, $3.49

Nathan's Beef Franks, BOGO

Oscar Mayer Beef Bologna, BOGO

Third Page

Friday October 30th only, get two Giant Rotisserie Chickens for $10.

Cedar's Hommus, 4/$10

Tombstone 12" Pizzas B2G2 (But do the deal Friday through Sunday, and you get a free Giant ice cream, too! See above for details.)
$1.50/2, 09/27 SS (expires 10/31)
Use two since you are buying four
Final: $3 off the cost of two, to get four

Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers, 3/$5
$0.50/1, 09/13 RP, or $0.40/1, 10/04 GM insert
Final price: $0.66/bag

Haagen-Dazs ice cream 14 oz., 2/$5

Gorton's Value Pack Fish (fish sticks, fillets, portions, or tenders), $4.99
$1/2, 09/20 SS
Final price, dollar doubled: $3.99

Stonyfield Farm Organic Yoghurt, 10/$5
$0.50/3 available here, among other Stonyfield coupons
Final price on 3: $0.50, or ~$0.17/cup

Land O Lakes Whipped Butter, 2/$4

Nature's Promise Organic Salsa, 2/$5

Fourth Page

Green Mountain Coffee, $5.99
$1.50/1, 09/27 SS
Final price: $4.49

Fruit20 6 pack, $2.22
$1/1, 08/23 SS (expires 10/31)
Final price, dollar doubled: $0.22 for a whole six pack!
(Note: also a $0.55/1 printable which should make it $1.12)

Ocean Spray Grapefruit Juice, 2/$4 (cheaper than WalMart's price on these)

Kellogg's Pop-Tarts Family 12-Pack, 2/$6
$0.55/1 8 ct. +, 09/23 RP
Final price: $1.90 for a 12-ct.

General Mills Cereals, 2/$5
Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Lucky Charms, Cocoa Puffs, Trix, Sprinkle Cookie Crisp, or Cocoa Puffs Combo
Various $1/2 General Mills coupons, coupons.com
Final price: $1.50/box

South Beach Living Cereal Bars, 2/$5
$1/1 printable , but this $2/1 may also apply
Final price, dollar doubled for the $1 coupon: $0.50/box!

Chi-Chi's Salsa, 2/$4

Wonder Home Pride Buttertop Wheat Bread, $1.99

Sunbeam White Bread, BOGO
$0.25/1, 10/11 RP
Use two since you're buying two
Final price: $1 off the price of one loaf of bread, for two

Toiletries Pages

Halls Cough Drops, 30 ct., 10/$10
$0.35/1 20 ct.+, 09/27 SS, or $1/2 in same insert
Final price: FREE to $0.30/bag

Oral-B Toothbrush, 2/$5
$1/1 or $0.75/1 from 10/11 P&G (varies regionally)
Final price, if using dollar doubler on the $1: $0.50 each

L'Oreal Kids Hair Care, 2/$5
Coupon rumored to be in this coming Sunday's paper...

Cover Girl Facial Cosmetics, 25% off regular retail
$1/1, any, 09/27 P&G or 10/11 P&G
Final price: $2 off, if dollar doubled

Skintimate or Edge ShaveGel, 2/$4
$1.50/1, September Family Circle, October Women's Day and Good Housekeeping
Final price: $0.50

Holiday/Housewares Page

Candy Deal Through 10/31, Your Choice, 2/$5
  • Fun Size Snickers, Milky Way, or 3 Musketeers
    $1/2, 09/27 and 10/11 RP
    Final price dollar doubled: $1.50/bag
  • Nestle Fun Size Candy
    $1/2, coupons.com
    , or October Parents Magazine
    Final price dollar doubled: $1.50/bag

  • Hershey's Snack Size Candy
Pampers Big Pack, $19.88
If your recently got a $3 coupon from Pampers in the mail good on any box, this would make it $16.88
$2/1 Cruisers, 08/02 and 09/20 SS

Last Page

Deal: Buy 2 Hormel Pepperoni, Get FREE Giant Soda and Giant English Muffin
$0.35/1 Hormel Pepperoni, should double to $0.70 off

These deals are shared as part of this week's Be CentsAble Grocery Gathering.



Did you spot any other Giant coupon matchups or deals for this coming week? Any dollar doubler freebies? Let us all know the buzz by leaving a comment! :)
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5 Reasons to Visit Giant This Week, 10/30-11/05SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
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Works for Me Wednesday: Baby Shampoo in Foaming Hand Soap Dispensers

It's Wednesday - time for another "Works for Me!" tip, inspired by the blog carnival/series at We are THAT Family. To see this week's Works for Me Wednesday tip carnival, click here.

Do you have a stash of baby shampoos in your closet? Last fall I ended up with bottle upon bottle of free-after-coupon Huggies shampoo. While it works well on my daughter's hair, I also had many bottles of L'Oreal Kids shampoo that we need to use, too.

I recently stumbled across a great use for mild baby shampoos like the Huggies formula or the Johnson & Johnson types. I had picked up a foaming-style kitchen soap at CVS with a freebie coupon that CVS had mailed me - I was sad to see it run out because I love that foamy texture.

On a whim, I filled the dispenser half-and-half with water and the Huggies shampoo (which is a thinner consistency anyway). After some shaking to mix, this pumps out beautiful fluffy puffs of foamed soap as though the shampoo came with the bottle. Bonus: the baby shampoo formulas are mild enough for baby's skin and often hypoallergenic, so washing your hands with a diluted version won't dry them out!

How do you save money on hand soap and hand soap refills?
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Works for Me Wednesday: Baby Shampoo in Foaming Hand Soap DispensersSocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
Ebates and Swagbucks are both easy ways to earn rewards while doing what you normally do - web-searching through Google and shopping for bargains online!

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Tuesday Deals Roundup - Free Juice Coupon, $2 Halloween Costumes, and Much More!

Here are some great deals and steals we've seen around the blogosphere lately:

Get a coupon mailed to you for a free Old Orchard juice. Sweet! Thanks, Freebies 4 Mom!

Bargain Briana reported that on Friday 10/30 and Saturday 10/31, you can get Halloween costumes at Old Navy for just $2! Thanks, Briana!

Per Frugal in Virginia, any orders placed today will net you a $25 gift certificate back at Piperlime's online shoe store. What a terrific deal! Thanks, Dana!

Printable Hasbro board game coupons (like for Connect Four and Cranium) are available! Thanks, Mommy's Wish List!

Via VistaPrint, you can snag 140 personalized address labels just in time for Christmas - and pay only $3 shipping. Caricature labels with cartoon versions of your family members are available. Thanks, Frugal Coupon Mom!

Money Saving Mom gave the scoop on two of the hottest online coupons around, both for $10 off a $10 or more purchase - at Lands' End (must be regular-priced item, must pay shipping), and JCPenney (must pay shipping and taxes). Thanks, Crystal!

Never Pay Retail Again posted on how to get a coupon good for a chicken meal at Boston Market - chicken, mashed potatoes, and cornbread, all for just $1, through November 1. Thanks, Jodi!
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Tuesday Deals Roundup - Free Juice Coupon, $2 Halloween Costumes, and Much More!SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
Ebates and Swagbucks are both easy ways to earn rewards while doing what you normally do - web-searching through Google and shopping for bargains online!

Apple and Pomegranate Crisp, AKA the Antioxidant Special

So, today was the first time I'd ever cracked open a genuine pomegranate, while making "Brenda's Apple and Pomegranate Crisp". Let's say it's an adventure and a half getting those seeds out of there, though once you get the hang of it, it goes faster. Anybody have tips on that? (Edit: Wikipedia tells me that the fruit can be opened and seeded in a bowl of water, where the seeds sink and the to-be-discarded debris floats)

True confession: I have "issues" following recipes to the letter. This is, I believe, a hereditary condition stemming from my mother's side, where all of the cooks in the kitchen are convinced that they know just the right tweaks.

Now I'm working on it; when trying a highly-rated recipe for the first time, I try to stick as close to the original as I can manage, so that I have a baseline. The only differences that I did tonight was adding a dash of ground cardamom because ever since my college roommate showed me how to crack cardamom pods open to make homemade chai lattes, I've been a bit obsessed with the flavor. Oh, and I used a butter/canola oil spread that I had gotten for free (or close to it) with coupons - instead of plain butter, because I just don't happen to have butter around the house that much.

All things considered, it is a good thing that I planned an extra-light dinner of veggie sushi and salad, because this crisp is tartly, decadently awesome. The closest comparison I might make is homemade cranberry sauce, but this dessert has several more dimensions, especially when served with a garnish of Ben & Jerry's Cinnamon Buns ice cream. :o) Not that I would, uh, know that from first-hand experience or anything.

In any case, if you've never handled a pomegranate, this is a good recipe for rookies to try it out! Pomegranates and apples are both on sale at Giant this week.
Apple and Pomegranate Crisp, AKA the Antioxidant SpecialSocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
Ebates and Swagbucks are both easy ways to earn rewards while doing what you normally do - web-searching through Google and shopping for bargains online!

Monday, October 26, 2009

Natural, Chlorine-Free Diapers via Amazon, Cheaper than Pampers Baby Dry!

Money Saving Mom posted a very simple explanation earlier today of how to get Seventh Generation Chlorine-Free Diapers for cheap, cheap, cheap! Her scenario has them down to $5.85 per jumbo-ish package.

Much to my delight, I was able to get my daughter's size very inexpensively, even cheaper on a per diaper cost ($25.94 for 4 packs of 22, or 29.5 cents/diaper) than to buy Pampers Baby Dry in her size at my WalMart (normally a box of 60 for $18.97, or 31.5 cents per diaper).

If you've ever wanted to try this brand or more natural diapers in general, this is the time to pounce on this super deal! :o)
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Natural, Chlorine-Free Diapers via Amazon, Cheaper than Pampers Baby Dry!SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
Ebates and Swagbucks are both easy ways to earn rewards while doing what you normally do - web-searching through Google and shopping for bargains online!

Menu Plan Monday

What's on your menu this week? It will be a lighter cooking week for me as I burned myself out last week. I have a few things in the freezer that need to be used up, like some fish fillets I bought with a triple coupon a few weeks ago.

Have you tried any new soup or stew recipes that you've liked recently? If so, share them here. We can't get enough!

Monday: Grilled turkey burgers, steamed veggies
Tuesday: Breakfast for dinner - pancakes, eggs, bacon
Wednesday: Cheese quesadillas, black beans
Thursday: Lemon garlic fish fillets, steamed veggies, applesauce
Friday: Grilled chicken, bread & dipping oil, mashed sweet potatoes, steamed veggies

Happy cooking!
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Saturday, October 24, 2009

Moe's: Free Burrito with Drink Purchase tonight, 10/24 from 5 - 8 pm

Tonight is the night to take you, your family and friends out for dinner on the cheap if you like Moe's!

Moe's is running promotion at all DC Metro locations from 5-8 pm today, Saturday, October 24. Buy a drink and get a free burrito. That is a deal! We really like Moe's because they have a great salsa bar and include chips with their orders. I'm guessing that's what they'll do as part of this promotion but no guarantees that the chips are included since I can't find anything about it on their web advertisement for this particular deal.

Click here for more details. If you go, report on how it went here! And if you haven't signed up for the birthday burrito list, sign up here. What's better than free lunch or dinner on your birthday?!
Moe's: Free Burrito with Drink Purchase tonight, 10/24 from 5 - 8 pmSocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
Ebates and Swagbucks are both easy ways to earn rewards while doing what you normally do - web-searching through Google and shopping for bargains online!

Friday, October 23, 2009

Savings Good on Saturday, Oct. 24 - Starbucks Freebies, Babies R Us 20% Coupon, Free Breakfast at IKEA, and $5/$10 Build-a-Bear Coupon

The freebies and discounts for the kiddoes are in abundance tomorrow!
Know of any other hot weekend deals for those wheeling and dealing over the next couple of days? Post a comment! :)
Savings Good on Saturday, Oct. 24 - Starbucks Freebies, Babies R Us 20% Coupon, Free Breakfast at IKEA, and $5/$10 Build-a-Bear CouponSocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
Ebates and Swagbucks are both easy ways to earn rewards while doing what you normally do - web-searching through Google and shopping for bargains online!

Preview: 2010 Entertainment Book

Those of you who have read about my love of the Entertainment Book before would imagine how excited I was when my father-in-law walked in the door last weekend with the brand new 2010 Entertainment Book for me! He called it an early Christmas gift, and I was more than thrilled.

Yes, I was so thrilled that I sat down that very night and paged through the entire book to see what was new, what was back from 2009, and what deals I could dream about for the coming year. Call me a nerd, but I'm a visual learner, and seeing coupons helps me remember what is in there because the NOVA edition is so big and covers a large geographic area.

Here are some highlights:
  • On the cover of the book, there is a set of "Bonus Cards." These include cards for $5 off at TGI Fridays, $5 off at Johnny Rockets, $10 off at Valvoline Instant Oil Change, and $5 off at AMF Bowling. The best part of these bonus cards? There is no purchase minimum. So subtract the discount from whatever you buy!
  • Firehouse Subs is back again this year with a coupon for a free medium sub at 2 locations. In the past it has only been 1 location. I really like their subs and drive out of my way to use those coupons because it's such a delicious, frugal deal.
  • Cold Stone Creamery has put coupons in there for the first time. These are mostly BOGO coupons, but it's an expensive place to get ice cream so every little bit helps.
  • Dick's Sporting Goods is back with its page of coupons. I have used these coupons the past few years around Christmas and combined several gift purchases to maximize the savings. They offer coupons for $15 off a $75 purchase, $20 off a $100 purchase, etc.
  • Fuddruckers is participating for the first time with a $5 off $25 purchase coupon. I have never seen a Fuddrucks coupon before, so I'm excited about this one!
  • There are BOGO car wash coupons, BOGO movie theater coupons, and lots of other BOGO restaurant coupons. There are also lots of travel discounts and promotion codes for websites that haven't been listed before.

We'll be listing Entertainment Book deals in the coming weeks. Hopefully we'll spot a deal on buying Entertainment Books we can share, too. I never buy them full price, and I never pay for shipping. I would like to have a second one again for next year, so I'll keep you posted on any deals I spot on buying one.
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Thursday, October 22, 2009

What I got free this week


In the past week my mailbox has brought me lots of goodies.

I recently signed up for a free subscription to Oprah magazine. This copy arrived damaged, but in general I enjoy having access to a different type of magazine like this. It features some of the best magazine writing I've found.

On a Target run I got some Ponds face cleansing wipes free with $.50 overage and a Glade candle free plus $.15 overage, thanks to $1.50 and $3.00 manufacturers coupons, respectively.


I also signed up for this Nature Valley sample and received a granola bar, pouch of nut clusters and 2 coupons. Every time we receive samples in the mail it's a special day for me and my toddler.

What have you gotten free recently? Share your finds here.
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Wednesday, October 21, 2009

5 Reasons to Visit Giant This Week, 10/23-10/29

Some potential freebies this coming week at Giant - and cheeeeap apples. We haven't had time to check/print all of these links ourselves, so caveat printor!
  1. Mueller's Pasta, 1 lb. box for $1
    $0.55/1 whole wheat here, will likely double
    Final price: Could mean FREE pasta!

  2. Gala, McIntosh, or Red or Golden Delicious Apples, in tote bags, $0.59/lb. (Save at least $0.40/lb.)
    There is so much to be done with this rock-bottom price:
    This pomegranate and apple crisp looks delicious - and very compatible with this week's cheap apples and pom's!
    Or try this pretty and simple apple pie recipe (hey, 2500+ people giving it 5 stars can't be wrong! :-p)
    4-ingredient applesauce - also highly rated

  3. 2000 Flushes, 1.25 oz-3.5 oz., BOGO
    $0.55/1, 07/26 SS, or $1/1, 08/16 'other' and 09/27 SS
    Lowest possible price: price of one, minus $2.20 if you use two $0.55/1 coupons, for TWO boxes
    1.25 oz. box probably runs ~$4, give or take, so ~$1.80 for two would be good

  4. Sylvania CFL Line, BOGO
    $1/1 CFL printable here, use two since you're getting two
    Final price: Cost of one compact fluorescent bulb, minus $2, for TWO bulbs
    Bonus: Buy $5 worth of Sylvania CFL Light Bulbs and get a FREE Earth Day Reusable Bag
    Double Bonus: According to government program Energy Star, "An ENERGY STAR qualified compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL) will save about $30 over its lifetime and pay for itself in about 6 months. It uses 75 percent less energy and lasts about 10 times longer than an incandescent bulb."

  5. Halls Cough Drops, 2/$3
    BOGO tearpad coupon on Halls Refresh, spotted in Giant, final price: $0.75/each
    $0.35/1 20 ct.+, 09/27 SS, final price: $0.80/each
    $0.50/1, October All You, final price = $0.50/bag
    $0.75/1 Refresh, 09/27 SS, final price = FREE!
Other Giant coupon matchups and deals that we spotted for the week of October 23 through October 29:

Front page:

Top Round, Bottom Round, or Boneless Chuck Roast, half price (Save at least $2.50/lb.)

Center Cut Pork Loin Chops, $1.99/lb. (Save at least $2/lb.)

Stouffer's Entrees, 5/$10
Includes Recipes, Classics, Selects, or French Bread Pizza

SUPER G Chicken Drumsticks or Thighs, $0.99/lb. (Save at least $0.50/lb.)

SUPER G Whole Chicken, $0.99/lb. (Save at least $0.50/lb.)
I've seen whole chicken prices go as low as $0.69/lb., but not for a long time.

Dole Salad Blends, 2/$4 (Save at least $0.99/each)

Canada Dry, 7-Up, A&W, or Sunkist, Regular or Diet, 5/$10 (Must buy 5, limit once per transaction)
12-packs of 12 Oz. cans (the better deal) or 6 packs of 12 Oz. bottles
$2/12-pack is pretty cheap for name brand soda.

Giant Sliced Bacon, $1.77/12-16 oz. package

Large Raw Easy Peel Shrimp or Medium Large Cooked Shrimp, $5.99/lb. (Save at least $3/lb.)

Deer Park Spring Water 24-pack, $3.99

Nestle Fun Size Candy, 2/$4
$1/2, October editions of Parents magazine and Disney Family Fun magazine
Final price: $1.50/bag

Scott Toilet Paper, 20-pack, $11.99 (Save at least $3/each)

Turkey Hill Ice Cream, 2/$5 (Save $1/each)

10/$10 Sale
Celeste Pizzas for One
Giant Dozen Eggs
Giant White Bread
Mueller's Pasta, 1 lb., $0.55/1 whole wheat here, will likely double, could mean FREE pasta!
Chef Boyardee
Rice-a-Roni or Pasta Roni

Second Page:

Extra Large Pomegranates, 2/$4 (these are normally 2/$5!)
This pomegranate and apple crisp looks tasty- and with this week's cheap apples and pom's!

Asparagus, white or green, $2.79/lb. (Save about $0.20/lb.)

Bag baby carrots, $0.99 (I'm pretty sure that this saves $0.50/bag)

Nature's Promise Boneless Beef Chuck Steak or Roast, $3.99/lb.

Perdue Chicken Homestyle Strips, $6.99 for 26 oz. frozen package
$1/1, 09/27 RP
Final price: $5.99/26 oz. (~$3.69/lb.)

Perdue Perfect Portions Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, $7.99 for a 1.5 lb. bag
Use $1/1 printable here or $1/1 from the 10/04 RP insert
Final price: $6.99 for 1.5 lbs., or $4.66/lb.

Third Page:

Tribe Hummus, 4 for $10.
Links to the SmartSource coupons here

I was unable to see/print right away because of my computer's Java issues, but
LittleTortilla says in her comment that you can get up to $6 off depending on what combinations you buy.
Thanks so much, LittleTortilla for the tip and the comment!!!

Cabot Sharp Cheddar Cheese, $7.99/lb. (Save $2/lb.)
$1/3 Cabot products, 08/02 SS
Buy small amounts of three flavors of cheese, and you'll get the biggest bang for your buck

DiGiorno or California Pizza Kitchen Pizzas, 2/$10
$1/1, 08/02 SS, $1/1 flatbread, 08/23 SS, $1/1 CPK pizza, coupons.com

Tyson Any'tizers, 2/$5
$1/1, September All You magazine
Final price: $1.50/each

Cabot Bar Cheese, 2/$5.
$1/3 Cabot products, 08/02 SS
Final price: $2.17/each

Dannon Light & Fit or Lowfat Yoghurt Cups, 20/$8
$1/10 09/13 'other' insert
Final price: $0.30/cup

Kraft Singles, 2/$5

Giant Fancy Shredded Cheese, 2/$4

Breyers YoCrunch 100 Calorie Packs 4-pack or Breyers Disney Lowfat Yoghurt 6-pack, 2/$5
$0.75/1, 08/02 SS and 09/13 SS
Final price: $1/4-pack, or $0.25/yoghurt cup

Nature's Promise Organic Shredded Cheese, $2.79/6 oz. (this is normally $3/bag)

Fourth Page:

Campbell's Chunky Soups, 3/$5
$0.40/2 Campbell's Chunky Healthy Request, 09/20 SS, or $0.50/4, 09/20 and 10/11 SS
Lowest final price: $1.26/can

Spice Islands Spices, Half Price
(These are much cheaper than McCormick at retail anyway!)

Del Monte Fruit, $1.25/can
$1/5, 09/20 RP
Final price: $1.05/can

Del Monte Vegetables, $1/can
$1/5, 09/20 RP
Final price: $0.80/can

Toiletries and Meds:

Suave Performance Shampoo or Conditioner, plus other varieties, 2/$4
$1/2, 08/02 RP (expires 10/25)
Final price: $1.50/each

Housewares Page:

Scotties Facial Tissue Single Boxes, 10/$10
$1/3, 08/09 or 09/13 RP, or $1/5, same inserts
Lowest possible price: $0.66/box

Back page:

Deal: Buy a $25 AMC and a $25 Best Buy gift card in the same transaction with your Giant card and get $10 off your next grocery purchase!

Deal: Buy Two Kraft Singles and Four Campbell's Soups and you will receive a FREE 1 lb. box of Nabisco Premium Saltine Crackers.

These deals are shared as part of this week's Be CentsAble Grocery Gathering.



Did you spot any other Giant coupon matchups or deals for this week? Post a comment to let us all know about it! :)
.
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Works for Me Wednesday: Receipt Organizer


It's Wednesday again - time for another "Works for Me!" tip, inspired by the blog carnival/series at We are THAT Family.

I recently realized I have a paper problem. I let it stack up, don't do a good job of sorting it as it comes in, and generally lose things. I know I'm not alone, but I haven't taken the time to figure out a system that works for me. Hubby has his system, but it doesn't keep me organized, and I'm the one who's home all the time.

We shared earlier about how we organize coupons, but we haven't shared about how we organize receipts. I do think it's important to keep receipts for at least a quarter in the case that I need to refer to a receipt for submitting a rebate or getting refund when doing a return. Many stores offer a 90-day return policy, so I've come up with a way to organize my paper receipts.

I found a standard letter envelope sized plastic expandable organizer with 13 slots at my local Target. It came with monthly stickers, so after about 2 hours of sorting over the past week I'm proud to share that part of my paper problem is under control! I've kept the first pocket of the organizer open so I can file receipts for returns or rebates right there. Then once I'm finished with the to-do item, I'll file the receipt behind its proper month tab.

What works for you when it comes to organizing receipts?
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Tuesday, October 20, 2009

Tuesday Deals Roundup - $15 FREE credit on Kodak Photo Gallery, Plus Discounts on DSW, Toys, Children's Place and Stride Rite

Here are some of our favorite deals for the coming week.

Register here, now to get a $15 credit toward the Kodak Photo Gallery. Credits are limited in quantity; after that discount coupons will be distributed. $15 free? That's worth it! With thanks to Frugal Coupon Living.

DSW just put out a coupon code for online purchases only, $10 off $49 purchase. This is a great deal! If you're a DSW shopper, I recommend trying shoes on in the store, then using coupon code SHARELUV at checkout to get the $10 discount. If you're not a DSW Rewards member, sign up here now to capitalize on free shipping with every purchase. And you'll love the way they package your shoes when you receive them. Coupon code SHARELUV is good through October 26.

Jos. A Banks is having a Buy One, Get Two Free sale. Click here for more details. This could be a cheap way to score 3 of the same or similar items, as the price of the two free items has to be the same as the one purchased. Thanks, Slickdeals!

Moneywise Moms has a great listing about printable Hasbro toy coupons that are available. I went to Target last week and bought a Sit & Spin and Mr. Potato Head toy for my toddler for Christmas, and with coupons both totalled just under $20. What a bargain! I noticed that the Musical Sit & Spin is on sale for $2 less this week at Target, so go print your coupons & shop now if someone in your life would enjoy one. You'll only pay $10 for a brand new Sit & Spin during he sale this week.

Click here for a printable Children's Place 20% coupon that expires November 1.
Thanks, Baby Cheapskate!

Click here for a printable Stride Rite 20% coupon. Note that it cannot be used at outlets. Expires November 15. Thanks, Baby Cheapskate!

Tuesday Deals Roundup - $15 FREE credit on Kodak Photo Gallery, Plus Discounts on DSW, Toys, Children's Place and Stride RiteSocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
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Monday, October 19, 2009

PARADE Magazine: Hostess CupCakes Coupon Spotted!

PARADE magazine has done it again. If you look in the October 18, 2009 edition on page 21, you should find a $.50 manufacturers coupon to be used on Hostess Multipack CupCakes.

Hubby loves these, so I'll be clipping this and looking out for a deal in the near future.
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Sunday, October 18, 2009

Menu Plan Monday


It's time for another fall menu plan - do you have any recipes to share? We've been enjoying lots of soups and comfort foods.


Here's what's cookin' this week.

Monday: Baked pork chops, baked yellow squash, wild rice
Tuesday: Salsa chicken in Crock Pot with fixings for fajitas or taco salad
Wednesday: Tomato soup, grilled cheese
Thursday: Garlic Basil Shrimp, penne pasta, steamed veggies
Friday: Spicy Chicken Stew, salad

Happy cooking!
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Thursday, October 15, 2009

Children's Consignment Sale: Saturday, October 17

The consignment sale I wrote about last week was a success! I came home with about one-sixth of what I tried to sell, so I'm very happy. It was a lot of work to get organized and ready for the sale, but I feel it was well worth it. Plus, I scored some deals on clothing, etc. for my toddler.

There is another Children's Consigment Sale coming up this weekend on Saturday, October 17. The ad I spotted in Chronicle Newspapers reads that it will offer gently used and like-new maternity and children's items at great prices. Sponsored by Grace Weekday Preschool and the MOMs Club of Springfield.

Here are the details:
8 am - 1 pm
Grace Weekday Preschool
7434 Bath Street
Springfield, VA
703.451.3314

As always, let us know if you go!
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Wednesday, October 14, 2009

5 Reasons to Visit Giant This Week, 10/16-10/22

These deals are shared as part of this week's Be CentsAble Grocery Gathering.


We haven't had time to check/print all of these links ourselves, so caveat printor!

5 Reasons to Visit Giant This Week:
  1. Marzetti Croutons, 10/$10
    $0.50/1 printable, will probably double
    Final price = FREE!

  2. Barilla Pasta, 10/$10
    08/23 SS for both, both expire 10/18:
    $0.50/1 Piccollini gets it FREE,
    $1/2 whole grain = $0.50/box

  3. Inner Flap Heinz Catalina Deal (see details below)

  4. Yoplait Yoghurt, 20/$10
    According to sources, coupons.com has some printables for $0.40/6 or $0.50/6
    SmartSource.com has a $0.50/6 coupon
    Also $0.40/6 from 09/13 GM insert, or Buy 6, get 1 free from 10/04 GM insert
    Final: 6 for $2, or $0.33/cup

  5. Kraft Shredded Cheese, 2/$5
    $1/2 here
    Final price: $2/each
Front Page:

Large Iceburg Lettuce, $0.88

Extra Fancy Gala Apples, $0.88 per lb.

Imported Navel Oranges, $0.88 per lb.

Shady Brook Farms Turkey Breast is half price at $1/lb.

Semi-Boneless Rib Steak is $4.99/lb. (Save at least $4/lb.)

Boneless Pork Sirloin Chops, $1.99/lb.

5 lb. Bag All-Purpose Potatoes, 2/$4

Weight Watchers Smart Ones, 6/$10
$1/5 printable available here
Final price: 5 for $7.33, or $1.47 each!
Also $2/8 here, $3/10 here, $4/10 here
Also a $1/3 SmartOnes Flatbreads or Pizza Minis available here. (Not sure if these are included in the sale price.)

Tropicana Pure Premium, $3.99

Pepsi or Coke 6-pack bottles, 4/$10

10/$10 sale
Starkist Solid White Tuna
Hunt's Tomatoes, $0.75/3, October All You, $0.45/3, 10/04 SS. Lowest final: $0.50/can
7-Up 2 Liter
Hunt's Spaghetti Sauce
Birds Eye Vegetables
Deer Park Water 6-Pack, $1/2, 09/27 RP, makes it $0.50/6-pack
Chobani All-Natural Greek Non-Fat Yoghurt
Chef Boyardee Pasta, $0.40/2 microwavecups, 10/04 SS, final = $0.60/each

***

Inner Flap: Catalina Deal, $5 OYNO when you buy $20 worth of participating Heinz items in one transaction. Limit once per transaction.

Listed items:
DEAL IDEAS:
Buy 12 SmartOnes @ $20
Use one $4/10 coupon
Receive $5 Cat
Net: $0.92 each!

Or:
Buy 14 Heinz gravies (for Thanksgiving backup?) @ $21
Use 4 $1/3 coupons (need two computers)
Receive $5 Cat
Net: $0.85/jar (not bad compared with retail of $2/jar!)

Or:
Buy 8 bottles Heinz ketchup @ $20
Use 8 $0.75/1 coupons, which will probably double automatically
Receive $5 Cat
Net: $3 for 8 bottles of ketchup, or $0.38 each

***

Second page:

Gala, McIntosh, Red, or Golden Delicious Apples, $0.88/lb.

Organic Brocolli, $1.49/lb.

Organic Cauliflower, $2.99/ea.

Organic Romaine, Red, or Green Leaf Lettuce, 2/$3

BOGO Meats
Oscar Mayer Meat Bologna
Oscar Mayer Meat Wieners, $1/2, 08/23 SS, Final price = ~$1.75/pack
Oscar Mayer Sliced Bacon, $1.50/2, 08/30 SS, Final price = ~$2/pack

Gwaltney Fresh Sausage Rolls, $1.79/lb.

Third page:

Sabra Hummus, 10 oz., BOGO

Haagen-Dazs, 2/$5
Coupons.com has a $1 off 14 oz. Haagen-Dazs FIVE flavors - might apply?
Final could be: $1.50/each

Fourth Page:

General Mills Cereal: Lucky Charms, Cocoa Puffs, Trix, or Cinnamon Toast Crunch, $2.22
You can print the printable coupons available at coupons.com for $1/2 Big G Cereals.
Last month there were also printables for:
$0.55/1 Trix
$0.55/1 Cinnamon Toast Crunch
$0.75/1 Cocoa Puffs
...so if you have any, they'd be good for this promo.
Other coupon:
$1/2 General Mills cereal, August All You

4-pack Green Giant vegetables, $1.99

Fiber One English Muffins, BOGO

Beauty/Pharmacy pages

Schiff Glucosamine or Vitamins, BOGO
$2/1 vitamins
$3/1 Glucosamine, 07/19 SS
$2/1 vitamin or supplement, 07/19 SS
Remember to use two coupons to get the lowest price for both!

CareOne Calcium, BOGO

Pantene, 3/$10
$1/1 Expressions or Restorative Product, 09/13 insert
$1/2 any, 10/11 P&G
$1/1 styler, 09/27 P&G
Lowest price: $2.33/styler

Back page

10/$10 sale
Campbell's Kids Soup, All Varieties
Campbell's Soups, Selected Varieties, $0.40/X (09/13 SS), $0.25/X ( 09/20 SS), $0.25/3 (10/11 SS), $0.40/2 (10/04 SS)
Bush's Baked Beans
Vitamin Water
Glade Aerosol Fresheners
Nature's Promise Organic Carrots
Orchard Perfect Ripe Avocados
Del Monte Fruit Naturals, $1/3 here, final = $0.66/each
Butterball Turkey Bacon, for 6 oz. packages,
Armour Lunchmakers
Arizona Teas
Breakstone's Cottage Doubles
Haagen-Dazs Single Cups
Utz Potato Chips, 3.75 oz.
Rice-a-Roni or Pasta Roni
Pillsbury Cake Mix or Brownie Mix - if Brownie Minis count, check 09/27 RP for either $0.40/1 or $1/2. Lowest final = $0.20/box

Deal: Purchase a $15 iTunes Gift Card and get a free bag of candy valued up to $3.99 (candy value deducted at end of transaction). 10/16-10/31.

Deal: Buy 2 Weight Watchers Fresh Taste Meals and 1 Brownie, all for $9.99.

What other matchups or deals did you spot in this week's Giant ad? Spill the beans in a comment! :)
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5 Reasons to Visit Giant This Week, 10/16-10/22SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
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Printable Coupon for FREE 12 oz. Hot Drink at 7-Eleven (Coffee, Cappuccino, Tea, Hot Chocolate), No Print Limit, Through 10/31!

Voila a freebie drink coupon good for a free 12 oz. Coffee, Cappuccino, Tea, or Hot Chocolate, through Oct. 31. Zowie! Print a few copies of this so if you happen to pass a 7-Eleven while errand-running, you can fortify yourself. :) Or plan a trip by finding your nearest 7-Eleven here.

Credit for this incredible coupon find goes to Money Saving Mom and The Thrifty Mama. Thank you!!
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Printable Coupon for FREE 12 oz. Hot Drink at 7-Eleven (Coffee, Cappuccino, Tea, Hot Chocolate), No Print Limit, Through 10/31!SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
Ebates and Swagbucks are both easy ways to earn rewards while doing what you normally do - web-searching through Google and shopping for bargains online!

Whoa! $1 ECB every 4 visits at CVS with Green Reusable Bag!

This practically made me tap dance. Gina has the goods here on how this new ECB reward works. Thanks so much for lighting up our morning, Gina!

Check out our classic CVS tutorials here:

.
Whoa! $1 ECB every 4 visits at CVS with Green Reusable Bag!SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
Ebates and Swagbucks are both easy ways to earn rewards while doing what you normally do - web-searching through Google and shopping for bargains online!

Works for Me Wednesday: Ring Cleaning

It's Wednesday - time for another "Works for Me!" tip, inspired by the blog carnival/series at We are THAT Family. For this week's Works for Me Wednesday tips, check out the post here.

Do you struggle to keep rings or other jewelry clean? To keep up with cleaning my rings and small earrings, especially my engagement ring, I keep a designated toothbrush near my sink. Every few weeks I squirt a drop of hand soap on the toothbrush, soak the ring in water and scrub away for a few minutes. I'm always amazed by how clean that simple regimen gets my rings.

Of course I got the toothbrush free as part of a couponed ECB deal at CVS. Works for me!
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Works for Me Wednesday: Ring CleaningSocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
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Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Tuesday Deals Roundup: Snapfish, Lands' End, White House Black Market

It's Tuesday - time to share some deals we're liking this week.

Save 35% on calendars at Snapfish when you use coupon code 35ALLCAL at checkout. There are some cute new designs on the website. Like we said last week, it's not too early to start Christmas shopping! To sweeten the deal, go through the Ebates portal to make your purchase and receive a whopping 10% back!

Save $20 on an $80 online purchase at White House Black Market. Use code 8936 at checkout. Save even more by going through Ebates, and you'll receive an additional 4% back.

Lands' End Girls Everyday Zip Trekker Shoes are on sale now for $5 a pair. Shipping is FREE with code HEARTH and pin 4330.Thanks, Slickdeals!

Women's wool coats are on sale at MetroStyle. There is a petal collar coat on the site that is absolutely adorable. I don't think I've ever seen dress coats priced so low, so jump on this deal now if you're in the market for one! If you enter code MS4YOU at checkout, you'll save an additional 40% off at checkout. Bargain alert, thanks to SlickDeals!

Shoe shopping anyone? Zappos is offering free guaranteed overnight shipping if you sign up for VIP Membership. Membership is free and available through November 1.
Click Here for more information. Another tip from SlickDeals.

Note: If you join ebates through our referral link, you'll receive a $5 starting bonus - and (thanks!) so will we.
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Monday, October 12, 2009

PARADE Magazine: Uncle Ben's Rice Coupon Spotted!

In the Sunday, October 11, 2009 edition of PARADE Magazine, we spotted a coupon on page 9.

It's a MFC to save $1 on any Uncle Ben's Whole Grain Brown Rice product.

This is a big coupon, but if you wait for the next round of Giant's dollar doublers, you'll score even more savings!
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Menu Plan Monday

The beautiful fall weather has me thinking of all things warm - soups, fires in the fireplace, sweaters... hope you enjoy cooking this week. Here's what we'll be eating:
Monday: Grilled bruschetta chicken, sweet potato oven fries, steamed veggies

Tuesday: White chicken chili, anadama bread
Wednesday: Pasta fagioli soup, house salad
Thursday: Grilled shrimp, steamed veggies, wild rice
Friday: Homemade pepperoni pizza, house salad

Head over to OrgJunkie for more ideas if you need them. Happy Monday!

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Saturday, October 10, 2009

Giant Followup: Philadelphia Cream Cheese at $0.58/each! Also, Cheap Snack Packs Pudding, Cheap Sugar, and FREE MILK!

On a trip to Giant this weekend I noticed that Philadelphia Cream Cheese retailed for much less than I previously estimated. Since it's BOGO this week, and an 8 oz. block normally goes for $2, this is how you can work a deal:

Pick up 6 Philly Cream Cheeses
Use 2 of the manufacturer coupons found in the in-store holiday dessert coupon booklet described in this past blog post
(These are for $1.25 off of any three particular items, including Philly Cream Cheese)
This coupon was also recently found in-store at Shopper's Food Warehouse!

3 x $2 (since they're BOGO) = $6
Coupons = ($2.50)
Total for six 8-oz. blocks = $3.50, or $0.58/each

This is definitely a stock-up opportunity if you can get your hands on this coupon! Cream cheese has a relatively long shelf life, but can also be frozen.
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Another deal spotted was the Hunts Snack Packs 4-packs of pudding down from the normal price of $1.33/each to $1 each. Use the $1/4 coupon from the October All You to get these for $0.75/each, or less than $0.20 per pudding cup. The August All You also had a B3GO (buy 3 get 1 free) on Snack Packs, which would work out nicely with this deal to the same price point.

Finally, Gina pointed out a Catalina deal (through 10/15) that is out for FREE milk at Giant. This deal wasn't mentioned in my Giant ad, but it was on a teensy weensy shelf label on an aisle end display (go figure). Do go yourself a favor and check out Gina's scenario for working this offer buying Keebler crackers for less than the cost of a gallon of milk - and walking away with the free gallon of milk to boot! Nice.

Gina also mentioned that her Giant ad had 5 lb. bags of sugar priced at $1.49, a price I have not yet seen in my Giant ad or Giant store, but it probably applies to much of Northern VA Giants!

Click here see our listing of this week's sales and matchups at Giant, including how to get FREE Hot Pockets and Lean Pockets.
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Giant Followup: Philadelphia Cream Cheese at $0.58/each! Also, Cheap Snack Packs Pudding, Cheap Sugar, and FREE MILK!SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
Ebates and Swagbucks are both easy ways to earn rewards while doing what you normally do - web-searching through Google and shopping for bargains online!

Friday, October 9, 2009

Today's Giant Trip: FREE Hot Pockets and Lean Pockets Breakfast Versions

As our Giant coupon matchups listings for this week mentioned, Hot Pockets and Lean Pockets (almost all varieties) are BOGO! What we didn't know for sure yet was:

a) the coupon values (varied widely regionally, from what we can discern at AFullCup), and

b) the typical retail prices of Hot Pockets and Lean Pockets at Giant.

Well, my 09/27 Red Plum insert had coupons for $0.75 off any breakfast version of Hot Pockets or Lean Pockets (expires 12/20).

Since almost all 2-packs are $2.99 at Giant, these were FREE when you get two packages and two coupons are used (and double automatically). One of the breakfast meals displayed on the coupon is for a meal whose box doesn't specifically say "Breakfast" in the picture OR on the package in the freezer case - the applewood bacon, egg, and cheese meal. (The other version pictured on the coupon is labeled a "Breakfast Quesadilla" meal.) So, I was left with the frustrating conclusion: is it up to us to determine what constitutes a "breakfast" meal? Some are obviously not meant to be breakfast - brocolli, chicken, and cheese. Others - like ham and cheese in a croissant crust - don't have breakfast on the box but might qualify as breakfast.

Let it not be said that Redemption Unlimited didn't dig up some answers for y'all. If you have the 09/27 insert coupon, you can use it legitimately to buy these breakfast varieties:

Hot Pockets
Sausage, Egg & Cheese
Ham, Egg & Cheese
Applewood Bacon, Egg & Cheese

Lean Pockets
Breakfast Quesadilla
Applewood Bacon, Egg & Cheese
Ham, Egg & Cheese
Sausage, Egg & Cheese

Basically, the rule is that the box must have "Breakfast" or "Egg" in the title.

Some varieties may go as high as $3.79 retail, which could mean that you'd pay $0.79 for two 2-packs (not bad still!) - but my Giant's shelves were already well-raided by the time I made it there around 5 p.m. today, so it was harder to tell what price labels went with what varieties. We still managed to dig 4 of breakfast varieties out - they rung up at $2.99, BOGO.

So I spent $0.08 tax on four 2-pack boxes of Lean Pockets Applewood Bacon, Egg, and Cheese - $0.02 of tax per box. Sweet! I'm hoping that if I return to Giant at a less chaotic time later this week, it will be restocked, and I'll score some more free with my remaining breakfast variety coupons.

What discount values and specifications are on the other regional Hot Pocket or Lean Pocket coupons that you are using to work this BOGO deal? Post your comment - 'cause knowledge = savings for us all!
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Today's Giant Trip: FREE Hot Pockets and Lean Pockets Breakfast VersionsSocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
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Children's Consignment Sale: Tomorrow, October 10


Guess what I've been doing this week? You guessed it, getting these piles of disorganized children's clothes ready for a consignment sale tomorrow.

Northern Virginia has a great offering for children's consignment sales. Thanks to generous friends and family and my love of yard & consignment sales (or would that be the art of a deal?), our little one has been cheap to outfit. I have spent probably $25-$50 per year on clothes for my toddler's first two years. That makes up for the money we've shelled out on diapers. Even when I maximize savings using coupons, CVS ECB deals, etc. on diapers, the cost does add up.

If you have a little one or nieces and nephews, consignment is the way to go for affordable books, toys & clothing that are barely used. My nieces have enjoyed things I've found over the years, and it's fun for me to see how cheaply I can get those cute clothes. Consignment sales are helpful when you're looking for an affordable Halloween costume, holiday outfit, or brand name clothing you wouldn't ordinarily buy at full price.

This is my first time consigning. A number of my friends have done this in the past and made some money back on past clothing purchases. I'm looking forward to the opportunity and will let you know how it goes next week. If I can get past the tagging and organizing stage, I think it might even be fun! I'm definitely looking forward to having more storage space in our home.
Children's Consignment Sale: Tomorrow, October 10SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
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Are you planning for Christmas?

Yes, it's hard to believe, friends. Christmas is just 11 weeks away!

Because we're planners, and because one of us has another baby on the way, we like to plan ahead for such things. The best deals come early, generally in November, so we're gearing up for Christmas shopping already.

I've followed the Simple Mom blog for a while, and I'd like to introduce you to the new series over there entitled 12 Weeks to a Peaceful Christmas. It's good stuff, encourages readers to tackle one thing per week, and is logically planned out. Just what we need!

I've already talked with my side of the family this year to come up with a better game plan for gift giving. Since we're growing on that side by another baby in 2010, and the last of us siblings is now married as of 2009, it's time to downsize when it comes to gift giving. Gifts for 8 adults and 4 kids on one side of the family stretched our budget last year. So we've all agreed to exchange adult names in a drawing at Thanksgiving when we're all together. Each adult will give a gift to one other adult, so 2 adults per couple instead of 8! And each couple will give gifts to all the kids. I'll report back to you after Christmas - but I'm excited about this change and think it will really help our entire family.

If you get a chance, check out Simple Mom and let us know what you think.
Are you planning for Christmas?SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
Ebates and Swagbucks are both easy ways to earn rewards while doing what you normally do - web-searching through Google and shopping for bargains online!

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

5 Reasons to Visit Giant This Week, 10/09-10-15

These deals are shared as part of this week's Be CentsAble Grocery Gathering.


We haven't had time to check/print all of these links ourselves, so caveat printor!
  1. Trick-or-Treaters Stockup (or...you know...whatever reasons you may have. :-p)
    Nestle Fun Size Candy, All Varieties, 10-12.5oz. packages, BOGO!
    Get a $1 off Nestle candy coupon by submitting your email here. (You can probably print two copies.) Use two coupons since you're getting two bags!
    Final price: Cost of one bag, minus $2 in coupons, for two bags!

  2. Progresso Traditional Soup (all varieties), Buy 2, Get 2 Free (Save at least $2.50)
    $0.50/2, 09/13 or 10/04 insert
    Final price when you get 4, using two $0.50/2 coupons (probably double): Price of two cans of soup, minus $2.50 saved, minus $2 in coupons saved - for four cans of soup!
    OR: Save $1.10 on 3 via coupons.com's coupon (still get 4 cans)
    Also: Check out reader/fellow blogger Lisa's Progresso soup scenario at Giant. Though it's dollar doubler coupon based, the coupons used could still be relevant for this week's Progresso B2G2 deal as well. Way to go, Lisa!

  3. Simply Asia Rice Noodle Bowls, 10/$10
    $0.50/1 or $1/2, 08/30 RP
    Final price: potentially FREE!

  4. Heinz HomeStyle Gravy, 2/$3 (normally $2 each)
    $1/3 printable available here
    Final price: $1.17 each

  5. Coffee-mate is BOGO
    $1.50/1 printable here or also here, probably makes it FREE when you use two!
    Other Coffee-mate printables available here ($1.50/2), or here ($0.55/1, probably doubles)
    Needless to say, if you like Coffee-mate, now's your chance to stock up cheaply.

  6. Finally, Hot Pockets and Lean Pockets are BOGO. Most are priced at $2.99 regular retail. See this post for how I scored some of the breakfast variety using the $0.75 09/27 coupon for FREE!
Here are other deals and Giant coupon matchups that we spotted for the week of Friday October 9 through Thursday October 15.

SUPER G Boneless Chicken Breast, $1.99 lb. (Normal rock bottom loss-leader price on this is $1.60-$1.79/lb., but this ain't bad! - save $1/lb.)

Red Seedless Grapes, $0.99/lb. (Save at least $1.50/lb.)

80% Lean Ground Beef, $1.99/lb. (Save $1.40/lb. This is essentially stockup price!)

Healthy Choice Entrees, 5/$10
$1/2, September All You
Final price: $2/each

Smithfield Sliced Bacon, BOGO (Save $4.99)

Giant Eggs 18-pack, $1.99

SUPER G Honey Spiral Sliced Ham, $1.99/lb. (Save at least $1.20/lb.)

Deer Park Spring Water 24-pack, $3.99 (Save $1.50)

Extra Large Raw or Cooked Shrimp, $6.99/lb. (Save $3/lb.)

Brawny Paper Towels or Quilted Northern Bath Tissue, $5.99
$2/2 Quilted Northern, September All You magazine
Final price: $4.99

Green Cabbage, $0.39/lb. Combine with the on-sale ham (above) to make a hearty cabbage soup!

Nature's Promise Organic Romaine Hearts, 2/$5

Perdue Oven Stuffer Roaster, $1.29/lb.

Petite Sirloin Steak, $4.99/lb.

SUPER G Drumsticks or Thighs, $1.29/lb.

SUPER G Italian Dinner Links or Brats, $1.99/lb.

Lunchmeats:
Oscar Mayer Deli Style Lunchmeats, 2/$6
Smithfield Sliced Turkey or Ham, 2/$6
Buddig Sliced Lunchmeats, 10/$5

Ile de France Brie, $10.99/lb. (Save $1/lb.)
Sign up here for a $1 Ile de France coupon
Final price: varies depending on how large of a wedge you're buying

Healthy Choice Cafe Steamers, 4/$10
$1/2, September All You magazine
Final price: $1.50/each

Tyson Chicken, 25.5-29 oz. bags, $4.99
$1/1, 08/02 SS
Final price: $3.99

Giant Sour Cream, 2/$3

Tropicana Pure Premium, 2/$6
$1/2 cartons of Trop50
Final price for Trop50: $2.50/carton

Kraft Cracker Barrel Cheese, 2/$5 (Buy 2, get a FREE box of Giant pasta up to $1.20 in value)

Pepsi 2-Liters, 3/$4

Kraft Macaroni and Cheese, 4/$3

Hershey's Snack Size Candy, 2/$5
$0.55/1, 08/23 SS
Final price: $1.40/each

BOGO deals!
Lay's Potato Chips
Thomas' English Muffins 6-pack
Philly Cream Cheese - See our Philly Stockup Scenario here with manufacturer coupon booklet found in Giant! We priced it out in this post - it comes to $0.58/8-oz. block!
Giant Shredded Cheese
Canada Dry Ginger Ale 6-pack
Hot Pockets or Lean Pockets, starting at $2.99 - 08/23 SS or RP, amounts vary regionally, but it's $X/3, so get 6 pockets when you use one coupon since it's BOGO. Also $X/2 or $X/1 coupons available in the 09/13 and 09/27 RPs. The 09/27 RP $0.75/1 coupon made them FREE for me!
Schmidt White Sandwich Bread or Sunbeam White Bread
CareOne Heart Healthy Supplements
Finish Auto Dish Tabs
Lysol Sanitizing Wipes, $1/1, 09/13 P&G, use two!
Mentos Gum $0.50/1 or $0.55/2, 08/16 SS. Also $0.55/1, 09/13 SS. Potentially free gum!
Dole Classic Iceberg Salad
Nathan's Beef Franks

Did you spot any other deals or coupon matchups at Giant this week? Post a comment to let us all know the scoop! :)
5 Reasons to Visit Giant This Week, 10/09-10-15SocialTwist Tell-a-Friend
Ebates and Swagbucks are both easy ways to earn rewards while doing what you normally do - web-searching through Google and shopping for bargains online!