Thursday, December 31, 2009

It's the end of 2009! Review of goals

Happy New to you! On this New Years Eve, I thought I would review my goals for 2009 and update on those I actually completed.

*keep up with the $5 CVS challenge, and include Walgreen's as well(when possible)
I actually did keep up with this for a while, but to me the deals just kind of dried up. I rarely spend any money is CVS anymore, and less at Walgreen's. We have a good stockpile (nothing pic worthy) that works for us and haven't spent more than $3 the whole year on shampoo, soap, toothpaste,etc. Plus I was able to score more gift cards for CVS this year thru MyPoints and Chase Visa Rewards.

*bake more from scratch
Did pretty good with this one and stumbled on a great cookie bar recipe that we make often!
*create a gift box (we seem to be swamped with birthday parties in the spring time, so this will help a lot)
Got a decent supply of these now, due in part to after Christmas sales
*cut energy costs!
Haven't made too much headway yet, but have cut my electric by half recently.
*make my own laundry soap
SUCCESS! Love doing this, and also my dishwasher detergent as well.
*recycle as much as possible in my community (we don't have a recycling pick-up or program here)
This goal I have done well with! Found a local grocer that has an outside recycling bin for plastic bags. I drop off all out newspaper at the local Animal shelter once a month. Magazine go to the Library free bin, and take aluminum cans to the only recycling center we have, and the money from them goes into our "Fun Fund".
*this is going to be the year that I finally learn to sew!
Sadly, no,I still haven't learned how to sew, maybe 2010!

And same as last year, BE BLESSED in the new year!

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

NO MORE Loadable P&G coupons at Kroger!

Received this email from Proctor & Gamble this morning:

"Beginning December 31, 2009, P&GeSAVER™ coupons can no longer be downloaded to your Kroger® Shopper's Card.

Please redeem all P&GeSAVER coupons you now have on your Kroger* Shopper's Card by December 31, 2009.

We value your loyalty to P&GeSAVER and are very sorry for any inconvenience this causes.


Don't forget: You still can take advantage of valuable P&G samples and savings delivered right to your home through P&GbrandSAMPLER®. "

3 Ways to use your Points to donate this season!

Here are 3 ways you can give back this Christmas Season, without spending a dime, or even leaving your house!*



1. Disney Movie Rewards: for 175 points, you can donate a Tree Seedling to Schools. (if you need some points for this prize, abcfamily is posting a 5 point code daily on the 25 Days of Christmas page. ) They have in the past, had a prize for 75 points that donates a DVD to a local Children's Hospital, so keep your eyes open for that one!



2. My Points: for 500-2,000 points, you can donate to The American Red Cross which provides disaster victims with food, shelter, clothing, counseling and more.



3. Swagbucks: Swagbucks is having a Toy Drive! You can donate your Swagbucks in ANY denomination to help the Toy Drive!

So, through these rewards programs, you can help the Earth, help people effected by tragedy, and help provide gifts for children, all for doing your everyday activities! (shopping, reading emails, internet searches)


If you have another program with donation opportunity's, please leave a link in the comments section.


THIS JUST IN! Paperbackswap.com is holding a "book" drive to benifit schools! To see the chosen schools, and donate a book credit, go HERE for all the information.



*Please note, you must be members of the following programs to donate. All memberships are free, and links are provided for sign-ups.

Monday, November 23, 2009

$5/$20 coupon @ Sav-A-Lot Printable!

Sav-a-Lot is doing a Thanksgiving for under $15.oo promo, and you can print a $5 off any $20 purchase HERE from their web site! There are also other printable coupons for food items. Coupon expires 11/30, so hurry to print and redeem!

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Save-A-Lot Great Gift Card Giveaway Sweepstakes!

Go HERE to enter Save-A-Lot Stores Great Gift Card Giveaway Sweepstakes for a chance to win $5,000 in Gift Cards of your choice!
If you are not already a Save-A-Lot Smart Shopper, make sure and register for it! They will send you coupons, including general ones like, $3 off any $10 purchase.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Making the Most of your Kroger Crazy Combo

I have really been enjoying Kroger's Crazy Combo deal (most of the time) but I find seeing how far I can stretch the weekly deals even more fun! Check out this weeks Combo deal:

Here is how I am planning on stretching it. *

Take the meat and divide it into 3 sections (about 1.5 lbs each).

Take the first 1.5lb and make crock pot chili. Use the tomato sauce and chili seasoning, 1/2 the onions,and serve with bread. You can also add a can of Kidney beans, if you like your chili with beans. If not, then you can use the leftover chili with some cooked pasta like macaroni, rotini or penne for a goulash later.

Second meal, use the rice mix and add another section of the meat and a can of corn for some fun dirty rice. You can also make some cornbread to go with it.

Third, use the last section of meat for tacos! Brown the beef with the other half of the onions and add some Taco seasoning for easy tacos! (I save any leftover taco meat in the freezer until the next taco night and just add into the fresh)

The combo deal typically is under $10, adding in the cost of beans, seasonings, and canned veggies, and taco shells you can have 3 great meals for $15 or less.

*not all of these meals will be eaten in the same week

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

FREE Cherry Limeaids@ Sonic 10/31!

Sonic is giving away free 14 oz Cherry or Diet Cherry Limeade on Ocotber 31 from
2-5 pm.
This is a nice little freebie to go with your .50 Corn Dog!!
Thanks Freebie Blogger for this info! If you are not already a reader or follower of Freebie Blogger, here is your chance!

Friday, October 23, 2009

Corndogs @ Sonic for .50!

Sonic is offering .50 corn dogs, Halloween, 10/31/2009 from 5pm to 10pm!

Thursday, October 22, 2009

KFC to giveaway Grilled Chicken 10/26

Just read HERE on Aol news that Kentucky Fried Chicken will be trying the Grilled Chicj=ken Giveaway! Looks like no coupon will be needed this time.

"The fast-food company will offer a free piece of its grilled chicken to all U.S. customers on Monday, according to The Associated Press. It will be the third time in six months that the chain has offered a giveaway to promote its new menu item, Kentucky Grilled Chicken. "

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

FREE Snuggie!

You know you want a Snuggie, the blanket with sleeves!
Now you can have one delivered to your home for FREE!
Go HERE to order today!

New Schwans Code!

Use code M2 on any pre-order from Schwans Home Delivery to save 5% off your total order! Good for new customers, or exhisting. Go to HERE to order! Expires December 31, 2009

Monday, September 7, 2009

"Tightwad" things I don't do anymore!

Hello, blogging world! I have been offline since mid August, and finally have gotten some internet connection back! Still waiting on high speed, but even dial up is better than nothing!

So on this Labor Day, I thought I would make a post about tightwad things I DON'T do anymore..

Wash baggies--now I know most people will swear by this and tell you they save X amount of money doing it, and I did used to do it, but instead I stopped buying baggies all together. I just use "Tupperware" or whatever generic or reused plastics I have on hand.

Make my own pancake syrup--this used to be a big money saver for us, but the price of sugar has gone up so high, it is no longer cheaper to make my own than to buy generic, or use coupons.

Like wise, I don't make my own taco seasoning anymore either, simply because I buy it in bulk at Sam's for far less than buying the ingredients to assemble homemade.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Cereal Treats--3 receipes

Basic Rice Krispies, but also works great with cheerios
3 TBSP butter
4 cups mini marshmallows
6 cups cereal
melt butter, add marshmallows, stir until smooth, remove from heat, add cereal slowly, stirring well. Turn out treats into metal or glass pan sprayed with non-stick spray for best results.

Super easy, great for slightly stale cereal
Line baking sheet with foil, then add cereal. Cut generous chunks of almond bark (regular or chocolate flavor) and place on top of cereal then pop into a pre-heated oven on low heat. If you use smaller, dense cereal like rice krispies or cheerios,you can add more almond bark to make it like brittle candy.

This is my favorite to make with corn flakes, but can use any kind of cereal. If using small cereals, you may need to add more than the 4 cups recommended.
2/3 cup corn syrup
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup peanut butter
4 cups cereal
Melt corn syrup and brown sugar until it comes to a full rolling boil, add vanilla extract, then stir in peanut butter. Once smooth, add cereal. Turn out into a glass or metal pan sprayed with non-stick spray. Cut into bars and enjoy.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Thinking Twice

Lots of times when I buy my groceries, I am thinking "how can I use this in a different way/recipes?". I recently was able to re purpose a free item to make a totally different food item than it's purpose. I have been getting the Kroger Crazy Combo deals where you buy the main dish, then you get 4 free items. A few weeks ago I got the Potato Finishers in the Combo to go with the baking potatoes. Pressed for dinner ideas on grocery day, I needed a quick (and filling!) meal. I was able to use the white cheddar sauce and the shredded cheese from the Finishers package to make some home style mac n cheese, paired it with a salad and leftover 4th of July brisket and we had a great meal in minutes and were out the door to the grocery store.
Here are a few other things you can re-purpose, so don't be afraid to stock up on them!

Hot Dog buns: mini sub sandwiches, slit in half to make bread sticks for soup,salad, etc
Hamburger buns: breakfast sandwiches, nice crusty garlic bread for lasagna or spaghetti, "bagel" pizzas
Pre-made hamburger patties: pair with a brown gravy for Salisbury Steaks, bread and season for fried "steaks", or just serve them as plain grilled "steaks".
Ranch dressing: use this instead of pizza sauce next time for a tangy treat!

Got ideas of your own? Add them in the comment section!

Friday, July 3, 2009

Schwans Home Delivery Codes

Here are some of the current promotional codes for Schwans Home Delivery Food Service
Use D5 for a $5.oo discount, on any order
Use D6 for orders over $25.00 to get a FREE pizza or half gallon of ice cream
Use code 4A to recieve 5% off your total order.

Oh, and FYI, Schwans accepts Debit/Credit cards, cash or check, and they also can accept state issued food benefits.

On the top menu, they have a tab for Meals under $5.00 and a tab for $1.00 per serving.
Please note, there is a $1.00 delivery fee on all orders.

And one little "green" thing. All Schwans trucks run on propane!

Thursday, July 2, 2009

CVS $0 OOP

Finally went to CVS this week! I can not tell you how long it has been since I went in there, with the exception of buying gum to get my 10ECB to print)

3 boxes of General Mills Cereal(3.00/each)
2 packs of Extra gum(1.29 each)
total=11.58
used 10ECB I got for taking a survey @ CVS Advisor Panel
$1/3 GM cereals
BOGO on Extra gum that I found loose in my binder,expiring THAT DAY!
after coupons total was:
.01
cashier told me not to even bother, he had an extra penny on the counter!

Monday, June 29, 2009

Free Veggie Tales DVD (2.99 S&H)

The Thrifty Mama has a post HERE about how to get a Veggie Tales DVD FREE plus shipping and handling of $2.99. Still a great deal! If you want Saturday Fun with Sunday values, then Veggie Tales are for you!

Friday, June 19, 2009

2009 All You Grocery Challenge

"We're thrilled that you're joining the ALL YOU Grocery Challenge! Show off your shopping smarts by spending no more than $25 per family member per week on groceries over a four-week period beginning July 13. That's $100 a week for a family of four. You could win a $1,000 grocery card plus a year's supply of Knorr side dishes and the chance to appear in ALL YOU magazine.
Follow these guidelines:
During the contest, groceries that you purchase count toward your weekly total. However, feel free to grow, barter or use stockpiled food to supplement your meals. Creativity and ingenuity count!
If you eat at a restaurant or buy takeout, the cost must go toward the week's total.
Household supplies and toiletries do not count toward each weeks total.
Keep track of your money using the optional Spending Log.
Save receipts--you will be required to submit them if you are a finalist.
Post your strategies on our Grocery Challenge blog, and be sure to tell us your money-saving tips
Click here to sign up
Official Rules
The contest starts July 13 (we'll send you a reminder email), so start planning your strategies now. Good luck!

You can check out the 2009 All You Grocery Challenge Official Rules and enter the contest HERE.

Thursday, June 4, 2009

My Grocery Deals.com

Since I live at least 30 minutes from any of our "local" grocery stores, and no grocery flyers are delivered in out mail, and only 2 of the stores put their weekly flyer in the newspaper, I have had to find creative ways to view the store flyers. (driving to the store just for the flyer is not cost effective,LOL) Sure I can look at each stores individual web site and look at their flyers online, slow internet connection speeds make even this simple task frustrating. However, My Grocery Deals.com is an easy way to see what stores in my area have what on sale each week.

It works like this, you set up your account, then you pick what stores from your area (even drug stores that carry food items, i.e CVS)you want on your list, and they send you an email on the day that the new flyers are released. That easy! After logging in, you can view sale items, add them to your list, and either have the list emailed to yourself, or you can print (you can also type in anything else you want on your list,or reminders, use $1 off Kellogg's coupons,etc or remind your self to price check an item). The site alerts you to healthy food choices, and alerts consumers to possible food allergens as well. As added bonuses, there are coupon resources, and the sales dates and stores are printed on your list so if you go to another store that has price matching, you are all set.

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Burn Out

I am suffering from some serious sales burn out. I haven't even set foot in CVS in almost a month, even longer for Walgreens. Just looked at my local grocery ads (Kroger, Super 2 Foods, Brookshires) and nothing worth bragging about. I have enjoyed Krogers Crazy Combo deals, but feel like I haven't had a decent sale in months, even though it has only been weeks.
Maybe my free Root Beer Float at Sonic tonight will get the juices flowing! These are the times when necessity becomes the mother on invention. I am hoping to come up with some great ideas and recipes out of this slump!

Friday, May 22, 2009

FREE Bar S Hot Dogs @ Super 1 Foods!

If you have a Super 1 Foods, RUN and use your $1/2 Bar S coupons from the 5/10 SS asw they have the 12 oz packages on sale for .50 each! You can also go HERE to print more BarS coupons!

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

The Dinner Report

Had this idea to share the actual cost of our dinners. I have seen so many TV shows and magazines that are toting the "$10 dinner" and I know a lot of people whose totals are WAY less than $10 (for the whole meal, not per person).
So, here is what we had for dinner 5/19

Hot Dogs and Mac N Cheese
(needed a soft and easy meal after a dental visit,ouch!)
hot dogs-.98 x 2=$1.96(-1.00/2 coupon) Final cost=.96 for 2pkgs (16 hot dogs)
buns .84 x 2=$1.68
mac n cheese= FREE at Kroger last week in the crazy combo deal
condiments from stockpile
total cost for family of 6=$2.64

Post your Dinner Report here! Use the fabulous Mr.Linky to share yours!

Click to Donate! Help Stop Violence to Women

Help stop violence to women. Go HERE to click to donate.
Every click counts. This is in partnership with Amnesty International.

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Book Giveaway @ Common Sense with Money!

Common Sense with Money is hosting a great Childrens Book Giveaway! You can check it out HERE

Monday, May 18, 2009

3 Ways to Get Ready for Summer CHEAPLY!

1. If you have an ice maker, let it run! Bag ice in plastic grocery bags to store for use in ice chests later.

2. Gather up your Wipes boxes. If you have small children (or even older ones) make them a travel box! Fill with small candies, fun pads, crossword puzzles, toys, or other small treats. Create your own scavenger hunt for long road trips (ex. Find a license plate from ___ state, 10 pts., include landmarks and easy to find items for younger kids)

3.Make a planned itinerary (with pictures) for the kids. Even make them their own maps! Trips go much smoother if they can keep up on where they are, where they are going and what to expect. Use recycled paper or paper grocery bags, cut pics from magazines, etc. Leave a place for them to journal or check off the days events, and they have a great one of a kind souvenir before you leave the house.

Thursday, May 14, 2009

Free Bowling for Kids!

Check out KidsBowlFree.com to see if there are participating centers in your area!
2 FREE Games Everyday for summer for kids!

“Bowling centers, schools, and other community organizations work together to launch a super summer activity option for kids and families...”

Click to Donate

Click HERE to help donate medical care to children in need!

"The Child Health Site is dedicated to funding simple and very effective preventatives and treatments with the goal of robust child health around the globe. Your daily click funds the administration of Vitamin A to prevent life-threatening childhood illness and disease as well as one preventable cause of childhood blindness; the manufacture and fitting of children's prostheses so that a child injured by a landmine or other accident can still walk, run and play and still has a fighting chance to be a productive contributor in his or her society as an adult; eye surgeries that can reverse one kind of childhood blindness; and HIV testing that will alert medical personnel that a mother may pass the infection onto her child at birth so that she can be treated and the newborn spared of this terrible disease. When you click, once per day, every day, you are helping to get these types of treatments and services to the children who need them most."

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Giveaway Winner!!

By random drawing, poster number 5!
"Tonya said...
sorry I forgot to mention email for giveaways is tmw1223 at gmail dot com."

So Tonya has 24 hours to confirm her email! In the event she doesn't contact me, another post number will be chosen at random!
My email is tightwadmom@msn.com

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

Great Giveaway @ Coupon Geek!

The Coupon Geek is hosting a really neat giveaway! Go HERE to see how you can enter!

Monday, May 4, 2009

Giveaway!

To kick off the week, I am hosting a giveaway of a Brother PT-55BM Handheld P-Touch Labeler!



This is a light-weight, super easy to use label maker.
How to enter:
1.Leave a comment telling me what features you like about my blog, (eg.3 way day, Click to donate, freebies,Home school helpers, RAOK for Bloggers, I want to win) and which ones don't seem to work, or need help. I can take criticism! If you need a refresher you can explore the blog, or look at the post HERE.


2. leave a comment on how you found this blog


3. link to this giveaway on your blog/website.

That's it! Winner will be chosen by random drawing on May 12.

Saturday, May 2, 2009

Don't Forget National Free Comic Book Day!

You can re-read all the details HERE! So go out and have some free fun today!

Thursday, April 30, 2009

Help Stamp Out Hunger

It's that time of year again for the USPS Stamp Out Hunger program. Just leave a bag of non-perishable items for your postal carrier on Saturday, May 9 to help out. You can check out all the details HERE, you can also download a countdown widget to remind yourself and others.

Monday, April 27, 2009

Coupon Theft and Aggrivation

So I bopped into Kroger to get my newspapers yesterday and there were no coupon inserts (or ads or the Parade magazine) in ANY of the papers. It seems a lady came in and bought 2 newspapers, and TOOK ALL THE REST OF THE INSERTS! An employee confirmed this. (in the paper I get,they are all bundled in a plastic bag and inserted into the paper)

What the heck is wrong with people? Why both to even buy the papers if you are going to steal anyway?
I had to drive to another gas station to even find a copy of the paper!
I have no idea why the employees didn't approach this lady, since they saw her and she was out right stealing!
Gesh!

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Free Comic Book Day May 2

Got this from Family Fun Magazine! May 2 is Free Comic Book Day across the US and Canada. Some select cities will have creator signing events on theses days as well. During the giveaway shops and stores will be giving out free comics from 35 different varieties, including old time favorites of Mickey Mouse, and newer ones like Transformers.
Go HERE to enter your zip code to see which stores in your area are participating!

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

DUDE! I won something!

Don't get too excited, I apparently won the satisfaction of knowing I won, i.e no real prize! LOL

I went on to RedBlog this morning and saw their first ever the Three:Freeze Frame challenge. I got all three movies correct! I believe I won some aluminum foil to crumple.....??
Anyway, I thought it was neat! You can read the post HERE, and these were not the pics that were up earlier today.
RedBlog is a great way to keep up with new movies, and DVD releases, instead of standing in front of the RedBox machine for 20 minutes trying to find something you want to see. (insert sarcastic tone from ME who is always behind this person!)

Monday, April 13, 2009

Swapping is saving $$

Little People Wealth recently had a post, 97 Ways to Save Money. And she asked me if I wanted to add any ideas on any of the tips suggested. I chose one of my favorite subjects, Swapping!
Not as in Wife Swapping or other kinky things, LOL, but swapping of actual good. (swapping services is known as Bartering)


Online or in person swapping can be a great way to save money on everyday expenses, namely children's clothing. I also have some shipping tips later on.

If you have a local MOPS group, this can be a great place to begin a children's clothing swap! Look at your group of friends, church members, and other groups you belong to for ideas on what you have others might need, or things what others might have that you need. I am in the process of organizing a "purse swap" for our Ladies Ministry.

I have been swapping online for a little over a year now, and I can tell you, it has been a load of fun, and I can't even tell you how much $$ I have saved! Here is a list where you can get your feet wet in the Swap Pool!

Kizoodle.com
SwapBabyGoods.com
Zwaggle.com
Diaperswappers.com
PaperbackSwap.com
SwapACD.com
SwapaDVD.com
FruglarReader.com

You can also search Yahoo! Groups for lots of specific swap groups (WAHM, Direct selling, baby goods, mom stuff, and just general swapping)

Most of theses sites operate on a feedback system, much like ebay. Good traders have good feedback, not so good traders, no so good feedback. The vast majority of the sites use a credit system as currency. Being able to set your own price, as you do at most of the sites listed above, or in Yahoo! groups, is an advantage to you.This ensures you will get what you want for the item. Or, there are auction formats as well, where you put your item up for a starting amount, and other members bid, and everyone still benefits. Other sites like SwapaDVD or Paperback Swap have set their own currency rate of 1 credit per DVD/book, unless otherwise noted (double sets, collectors edition,etc)
Also, some are private membership which you must "apply" for. All the above sites are FREE to join, most have forums or other message boards to communicate with other members.
Another idea is to Google for swap groups for hobbies, children's wear, women's wear, etc. I think you get the idea!
In most all swapping groups you will in cure shipping costs. Zwaggle, for instance,lets you ship from home using pre-paid Fed Ex labels that you can print, and request a pick up. SwapADVD, SwapaCD and Paperback Swap all will let you print your shipping labels at home using Adobe Reader. (you can choose to pay from your Pay-Pal account or direct from your bank account)This is based on Media Rates, so they are inexpensive to ship (average cost for book/DVD postage is $2)

So now on to shipping! Probably the best way to ship is through USPS. You can use their Click and Ship to print postage for Flat Rate Items with no additional cost besides postage (Delivery Confirmation is FREE) unless you choose insurance. You will need to download some software from their site I believe. You can also get the Flat Rate boxes and envelopes from the same USPS site, all for FREE, and they can even be delivered to your door by your postal carrier! There are other services like Stamps.com that will allow you to weigh and ship any item, using all shipping methods and you can also request carrier pick up. However, there is a monthly charge for their services. One of the large advantages by using stamps.com is you can get a free postal scale with membership that plugs into your computer so you can calculate postage the same way your local post office does. (note: this scale can ONLY be used with the stamps.com service).

Other options are DHL, UPS, and Fed Ex.

Ways to save on shipping.
Did you know you can use everyday items to ship? Posters or other items can be shipped in the cardboard tubes that wrapping paper comes on, or even paper towel cardboard tubes (yes, I verified this with a USPS postmaster). Look around your house for boxes! Cereal boxes, cracker boxes, etc, all can be used for mailing. Use newspaper, recycled styrofoam peanuts for safe shipping, or even plastic grocery sacks! Use these to keep an item stabilized in a box by balling them up and packing them in tightly around the item. They are cheap (free!) and don't add much weight to the box, keeping your shipping costs down.
I recently discovered a cheap alternative to poly mailers. Shopping bags from some retailers, like The Childrens Place, can be turned inside out and used as a poly mailer for clothing or other textiles.
I have even received items in formula canisters!
As a "safety" note, I encourage all swappers and shippers to use Delivery Confirmation. This benefits both parties, and offers some insurance that the items isn't lost in the mail. Insurance is also a good option with a low cost, but doesn't show you where an item was last scanned, etc.

Online swapping can be fun and helpful in these tough economic times, but remember you are doing "double good" when you swap with others!
1. you are recycling! Every time you swap with someone, you are keeping that item out of a landfill. When you print and ship from home, you are not wasting the gas!
2. you are helping yourself and your family!

Monday, April 6, 2009

Taking a Blog-acation

Haven't been posting very much as of late simply because my life is so crazy right now! On top of home schooling with a new curriculum (with a whole different schedule),my2 oldest children's birthdays, beginning guitar lessons for my oldest daughter, dealing with a terrible 2 year old, computer malfunctions and a load of different Girl Scout responsibilities, I just have not had time to post anything. I am going to take a vacation from blogging till the end of the month.
Blessings to you all until then!

Michelle <><

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Click to Donate

Click HERE to donate books to kids!

Within the U.S., access to books is essential to reading development: the only variable that directly correlates with reading scores is the number of books in the home. However, most recent data describes a profound, even shocking gap: while the ratio of books to children in middle-income neighborhoods is approximately 13 books to 1 child, the ratio in low-income neighborhoods is 1 book to 300 children.* In addition, over 80 percent of childcare centers serving low-income children lack age-appropriate books. Together, The Literacy Site and its domestic partner, First Book, provide children from low-income families in the U.S. with books they can take home and keep

Friday, March 27, 2009



It's Friday! Time to Bless a Blogger!
This week it is Mommy Managing! I really love her blog! And she has single handedly turned me on to Brookshires! I had abandoned them due to lack of sales, etc. but she opened my eyes again! Looking forward to shopping there this week. So go on over and say "HI!"

Want ot Win it! Hannah Montana Sweepstakes

Go HERE to enter!
Grand Prize: 4 Day/3 Night trip to Hollywood for 4 to attend a TV taping and visit the set of Disney's "Hannah Montana" series. Meet cast members from the TV show (talent subject to availablity) Get an incredible prop from the movie-one of Hannah's dresses! Meet with a Hannah Montana stylist to get ready for your set visit.
First Prize: 100 First Prize Winners will receive $50 JCPenneys gift card.

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Open only to persons who are, as of Entry, 8 years of age or older; legal residents of, and physically located within, the 50 U.S. or D.C. Sweepstakes ends 11:59:59 PM (PT) on 4/11/09. Many will enter. Few will win. Click here for Official Rules.

Thursday, March 26, 2009

WOW An Award!

Giving Without Spending Nominated me for a Kreativ Blogger Award!
The rules of this award are to list seven things you love and pass it on to seven bloggers you love.

1.My Lord, Jesus Christ
2. My family
3. my church family and friends
4. the smell of fresh cut grass
5. a baby's laugh
6. cheesecake, lots of cheesecake :o)
7. sharing!

Ok, here are the 7 Bloggers I am passing this on to:
Thrifty Mom in Training

Star Lyte Star Bright

Making Cents of Saving

Frugal Wife and Mama of 2

One Frugal Lady

Thrifty Livin'

Savin Makes Cents


So, there ya go!

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Wednesday Freebie Frenzy

Printable Free lotion from Victoria Secret HERE (No purchase necessary)

Free e-book from Oprah's Book of the Month Club "Debt Diet" HERE

Free sample of Dove Heat Defense Therapy HERE

Free Bookmark from Christian Families Today HERE

Join Frugal Reader HERE and swap books with other member! Joining is free.

Free sample Kellogg’s All-Bran Pink Lemonade from Wal-Mart HERE

Free sample of Quaker Rice Cakes HERE

Free sample of Free Billy Boy Candy Pocket Tin Sample HERE. Just think of all the ways you can reuse that little tin! LOL

I am in the running at Get Dollar Savy!

YIPEE! I am in the running for the $250 cash prize at Get Dollar Savvy! You can read this weeks entrys and vote HERE. (I am TightwadMommy)

I became aware of this site from Little People Wealth. This weeks question was "If you had to make 3 meals from a roaster size chicken, what would they be?"

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Click to Donate: Save the Rainforest

Todays site for Click to Doante is The Rainforest Site.
"The Rainforest Site is dedicated to the preservation of rainforests around the world. Your daily click funds the purchase of rainforest land by The Nature Conservancy, The Rainforest Conservation Fund, The World Parks Endowment, and Rainforest2Reef. These organizations work to preserve rainforest land in Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, Paraguay and other locations worldwide.
On average, over 35,500 individuals from around the world visit the site each day to click the green "Click Here to Give - it's FREE" button. To date, more than 150 million visitors have preserved more than 40,500 acres of land."

Monday, March 23, 2009

3 Ways to Reuse............Plastic Gum/Candy Containers

Here are just 3 of the many ways you can reuse those small plastic gum/candy containers! (Mentos gum, M&M Minis,etc)

1. Perfect size for a change holder for your car.

2. Push a thumbtack through the lid and pin it to a bulletin board to hold tacks, a pen, etc.

3. Tooth holder. These make the perfect size for those little teeth your kids leave the Tooth Fairy! You can decorate with lots of alternatives, even gem stones! Much easier to find that little hard container under the pillow in the middle of the night!!

Saturday, March 21, 2009

Good Samaratians Sill Exhist!

I saw THIS article on AOL News, and thought I would share. Makes you feel good to see people doing good for other people!

Want to Win Sweepstakes/Contest Site 3/21

This is certainly one I personally want to win!

You could win a year of free housecleaning from The Maids Home Services, a Beaches Resorts Luxury Included® Family Vacation, flowers for a year from 1-800-FLOWERS.COM® and more!*
Enter HERE for a chance to win our Sweepstakes prizes. Plus, you can come back and play every day for a chance to be one of our 2,000 instant winners of a free housecleaning visit, gift certificate, gift basket or magazine subscription!
By the way, with The Maids Home Services, we're talking about the healthiest, most thorough housecleaning you’ve ever had. When you bring in The Maids, you'll feel like an Instant Winner every time we come. And right now, new customers can save $100!


As an added plus, you can play/enter daily and you will know instantly if you are a winner!

Friday, March 20, 2009

RAOK for Bloggers Friday!


So here it is again, it's Friday and time to bless a blogger! This week I choose Making Do with Not So New. I personally think she is just amazing! She just has that gift of critical thinking. She already has a large following, but thought I would mention it, just in case you missed it!

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Homeschool Helper 3/19

Hi! Today's "idea/lesson" has to do with reading readiness and magnets!

Get a large round metal circle shape, something with a lip on it (the lids from those holiday popcorn tins, or the cookie tins works best) and some magnetic letters. Sit with your child and practice spelling words, names, etc. This is how I taught my son phonics, and we started with the -at family.... start with the basic word "at" then add different letters as the beginning sound:
mat
sat
cat
bat
hat
and so on. 3 and 4 year olds will pick this up very quickly and this also goes great in the car. You can ask them to find the letters and spell the words themselves.

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Mid Week Freebie Frenzy

Free Vegetarian Starter Kit HERE

Free Desk Plant from Natursolv HERE

Free Box Tops for Education Collection Bin HERE

Free socks from Teen Freeway HERE

Free sample of Caress Evenly Gorgeous™ Exfoliating Body Wash HERE

Free John Heffron Comedy DC HERE (this is a download)

Free CD "Road Map for Parents of Teens" HERE

Free 1 year subscription to Dogs Life HERE


I already got the pedometer and the workout CD listed HERE that I posted last week! (it is the last freebie on the list)

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Click 2 Donate Site for today

Today's click 2 donate site is The Breast Cancer Site.
Your click on the "Click Here to Give - it's FREE" button helps fund free mammograms for women in need — low-income, inner-city and minority women whose awareness of breast cancer and opportunity for help is often limited. Your click is paid for by site sponsors, and mammogram funding is provided to clinics throughout the U.S. through the efforts of the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
There are a few other tabs on this site for click to donate, so explore and click! Also, you can buy Breast Cancer Awareness items through the store to help give more mammograms.

Monday, March 16, 2009

Gret CVS Trip! $1.58 OOP

Still no camera! Sorry guys, it is so much better with pictures, but this was a blog/brag worthy trip!
Transaction #1
Irish Spring Body Wash $4.99
4 boxes of Wheat Thins $4.00
total $8.99
used
-5 ECB (from cereal deal last week)
-.50 Irish Spring Q(3/15 insert)
-2/2 any Wheat Thins (1/25 insert)
-1/2 any Wheat Thins
total after q's and ECB:
.49
earned 4.99 ECB

Transaction #2
2 Pantene Shampoo 2/$7
2 Pantene Hair Sprays 2/$7
total $14.00
used 4.99 ECB (from #1)
-1.oo off any Panteen Shampoo (P$G insert last month)
-3.50 FREE styler item WYB Shampoo (from 3/15 P&G insert)
-3.50 FREE styler item WYB Shampoo
total $1.09
earned 4 ECB

total would have been $0, but I only had one of the $1 off any shampoo. That would have been sweet though! LOL



RAOK Coupon Fairy Visited me!

A few weeks ago while shopping at Kroger's, I was getting some Cottenelle toilet paper (the 12 roll pack) and low and behold a generous coupon fairy had left me a $3 off Kroger Q! I was so tickled! Then last night, someone left a $1 off (2)Snyder's of Hanover pretzels! When I doubled checked the coupon I was to use, it was only for the pretzel sandwiches, not the plain pretzels! (which are part of the Mega deal)Yippee Skippy! And you can read HERE at Coupon Geek to see how to get a FREE Rachel Ray book for buying Snyder's of Hanovers snacks!! (You can re-read my original RAOK Coupon Fairy post HERE also)

3 Ways to Reuse.............Juice Lids

I know you have probably heard a million ways to re-use those metal juice can lids! But here are 3 ways that I actually use them in everyday life!

1. Sink stopper. My drain happens to be the exact same circumference as a juice lid, and my stopper broke so found this out of necessity.

2. Spoon rest. Just throw it in with the dishwater or dishwasher utensil basket, and reuse, or toss.

3. Make great toys for kids! If you have enough, paint some red and some black and have your own over sized checkers game! Use a pillow case or other piece of fabric to make the board.
Have a stack ready for your baby to hold in the high chair, they love tossing them!
Uses matching stickers to decorate them and make your own matching game. Those free ones from Disney wanting you to join their movie club are great to use, or you can generally get a 2 sheet sticker set at Dollar Stores. I then gave my toddler an empty wipes box. She loves pushing the lids thru the slot, and she is learning skills too!

When my oldest was little, I used blue paint to make a paw prints on 3 lids (she really liked Blues Clues) and we played that for hours.

There are thousands of ways to reuse them, leave your favorite way in a comment!

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Homeschool Helpers

Ok, so I am a few days behind!
Here is the Home School Helper link for Thursday:
Donna Young is a fabulous site is rich with resources for home schooling families, or just parents in general! Loads of printables, organization materials, and Q & A sections.

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Mid Week Freebie Frenzy

Freebie Time!

2 FREE Grapefruit Spoons (with proof of purchase) HERE

FREE Reusable tote from Delallo HERE

Register at Marlboro.com and choose from a carbine key chain or a BOGO pack coupon HERE

Need a checklist for ANYTHING? Go HERE for free printable checklist, 100's to choose from

FREE Sample of Surf detergent HERE just need to leave a tip for stain removal.

FREE sample of Tide Total Care HERE

Join the VIP Club at Volpi and get coupons and free samples HERE

FREE sample of Total Cranberry Crunch HERE

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Click 2 Donate Site for the Day

Who doesn't want to help the sweet little animals?

Go HERE to play Bow Wow Trivia to feed hungry Dogs and HERE for cats!

You can only answer one question a day, so go back often! And you can sign up to get dailey reminders from both sites!

Monday, March 9, 2009

3 Ways to........Reuse Waxed Paper Cartons

Ok, so here we go!
3 Ways to Re-use a Waxed Paper Carton (like OJ, milk, or creamer cartons)

1. Fill 3/4 way full with water and put in your deep freeze, place cap on when completely frozen. Use these to fill empty spaces in you freezer because the freezer will run more efficiently (use less energy!) when it is full. Then when you need ice for a cooler, you have a huge block all ready! And can be frozen, thawed and refrozen about 3 times before the carton weakens.

2. After cleaning the carton well, use it for your homemade chicken or beef stock. Pour into carton using a funnel, and keep in the fridge! When you are ready to pour, the fat will have settled and the top and won't come out of the spout when you pour because the liquid will come out first. Or you can strain it through a coffee filter to make sure no fat escapes.

3.Cut the top off of the carton and use it as a mold to make your own candles! Just melt regular paraffin or soy wax, pour and insert wick! Layer with potpourri for a distinct, unique candle.

BONUS CRAFT: Look HERE for instructions on how to make a wallet from a carton!!

Saturday, March 7, 2009

Thing to come

Ok, so if you have read this blog at all, you know that I don't like to do things like everyone else. I don't post all the CVS and Walgreens deals like the other talented bloggers (The Thrifty Mama), but I defiantly read about them there.
So, I was thinking tonight what do I have to offer to readers? What kind of things can I really blog about? Also, I need to get motivated, be accountable, things along that line.

Sooooooo, here is what I came up with!

Monday is 3 ways Day, I will list an item and list 3 ways to reuse or recycle the item.

Tuesday is Click to Donate day. I am excited about ways to help others without even leaving my home or spending any money.

Wednesday is Freebie Frenzy

Thursday is Home School Helpers

Friday is RAOK for Bloggers ( already doing this, I know)

Saturday will be "I want to Win!" I will find the best contests or sweepstakes to enter!

Any suggestions? I would love to hear them!

Friday, March 6, 2009

RAOK For Bloggers Friday



It's Friday again! Time to highlight a new blog for Random Acts of Kindness! Today's featured blog is Queen of my Trailer. I really enjoy her writing and think her stories are hilarious! She also puts a very different spin on the "frugal" lifestyle. I love also the pics of what she has done with her house. And she showed step by step how she (a girl! *GASP*) re tiled the kitchen counters. My HUSBAND even read it and liked it. That alone should be a seal of approval. LOL. So go on over and check out her blog!

Thursday, March 5, 2009

FREE Fintness Book When you Eat at Chilis!

This was in my Family Circle magazine.
"Get a FREE Copy of Kim Lyons New Book,"Your Body, Your Life"
Here's how:
*Visit Chili's and order any Guiltless Grill menu item.

*Send your receipt and shipping address to Family Circle, Dept. MR, 125 Park Avenue, 19th floor, New York, NY 10017

*First 100 readers to participate will receive a free copy of Kim Lyons' Your Body, Your Life: A 12 Week Program to Optimum Physical, Mental and Emotional Fitness.

Sounds good right? Don't forget about joining Chili's email club to get FREE chips and Queso
If you can pair this with a gift card, it would be an even better deal!
Family Circle is also hosting a give away for a One-on-One Session with Kim Lyons,and other prizes including Chili's gift cards, you can enter HERE.

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Tuesday: C2D

So, no here in Tales of the Tightwad Tuesdays will now feature a Click to Donate site! I found this fun one today.
Free Rice tests your vocabulary skills and donates 10 grains of rice for every correct answer to the UN World Food Program to End Hunger.

I just donated 350 grains of rice!
If you are a home schooler like me, this site can really challenge your kids vocabulary, and they can help others while learning! Can't get much better than that!

Friday, February 27, 2009

RAOK for Bloggers!



I am participant in the RAOK for Bloggers hosted by Giving Without Spending I have choosen my fellow Kizoodle
member Frugal Wife and Mama of 2

Amy is a SAHM to 2 wonderful kids, and is always on the prowl for a good deal!

I am excited about this project, and already know who I am profiling next week! Happy Reading!

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Freebie Frenzy!

I have never done this before, but here we go!! I have also checked these to make sure no $$ is required. Some do require a UPC. I have learned to save UPC's from most of my "name brand" items. I just use an empty baby wipes case in my pantry. When throwing out a box/package from say, Nabisco, I just slid it in the box so when rebate comes along, I already have it!

FREE Pull-Ups Potty Training Kit HERE ( it is a DVD)

FREE items from Kraft Promotions HERE (UPCs are needed) (ex. Golf kit from Planters)

FREE Diabetes Information Library HERE (some items are out of stock, just keep looking! Lots of FREE info on Diabetes prevention and many other health publications)

FREE tote from Wellcare HERE when you fill out a survey

FREE Instant Garage Sale Kit HERE (scroll down, it is a download)

FREE Reusable Grocery Bag HERE

Donate a FREE Bible HERE

FREE DVD and Pedometer from Tylenol HERE when you sign up for newsletter.

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Buying Tropicana Orange Juice to help the enviroment

Tropicana Orange Juice recently changed it's packaging to be more environmentally friendly. On the carton there is a code to enter that Tropicana will preserve 100 square feet of rain forest for every code you enter! You can check out more details HERE!

Blog Profile: Giving Without Spending

If you are looking for ways the help others, without breaking your piggy bank, check out my friend Melanie's blog, Giving Without Spending! She highlights ways you can help others with out spending anything! Or ways to give without spending much. I really love it and hope you will too!

Trip Totals

Here are the totals of out trip! Went over budget slightly, but hey, my husband decided to go at the last minute, so I had to add a person and didn't have time to adjust the spending allowance.

Gas: $63.00 (and I still have more than half a tank)
Food: $28.50
Miscellaneous: $8.00 (car wash and laundry at hotel)
Hotel room: $0
Entertainment: $0
total for trip: $91.50

We stopped to get gas (tank was at less than half) and decided to go ahead and "blow" some money on a couple of $5 Footlongs from Subway. Hey, 4 hungry kids and 200 miles ahead doesn't make a pretty picture! We did eat food from home in the hotel Sunday night, and the only money we spent there was for the laundry. My 10 year old had been at a church retreat all weekend and the are required to play in the mud! I was not carrying around muddy clothes, and my 12 year old had spent the day at a Horse barn, so again, not gonna carry yucky smelling clothes in the car. Took my own detergent so that saved me some $$. (Free Tide samples received in the mail) I totally forgot that the machines would be coin operated! So spent $1.50 on the washer, and thought about not using the dryer and just hanging them in the room. I really wished I had listened to myself, because I spent the $1.50 on the dryer and it didn't work! We ended up drying them in the room anyway. *Sigh*
All in all it was a productive trip! We delivered 4 cases of Girl Scout Cookies, visited family and spent some time together, so well worth it!


**when we got home yesterday, my Pizza Hut gift card was in the mailbox! LOL, wished we had had it on the trip though!

Saturday, February 21, 2009

Travel totals....so far.

So, hitting the road tomorrow! I will be traveling about 300 miles. The cooler is packed, the snacks are packed, and the clothes are almost packed. I gassed up the car for a total of $35 ($1.70 gal) and spent $2.09 on snacks at Kroger. I have a ton of the Betty Crocker snacks in the pantry too, so that will help. And lots of drinks for the kids. We will have to eat out lunch tomorrow, but expecting to eat in the hotel room tomorrow night. Also went to the library the other day to get some fun Books on CD and some DVD (I have a DVD player in my van). I also called ahead and reserved a port a crib, saving me a wrestling with my youngest daughter, and the saving space in my van for necessities.
So far, so good, at least budget wise!

Friday, February 20, 2009

FREE Liz Lange Health Journal

Saw this on Coupon Geek! Just go HERE to take the quiz about Cervical Cancer. At the end of the quiz you will fill out the form to recieve a free health journal.

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Travel Challenge

Well, here I was just itching for a tightwad challenge, and one has presented itself! I will be traveling to the Ft. Worth area this weekend! I have take some things to my sisters office in downtown Ft. Worth, Texas (3 hrs travel time for me). I will need to use a hotel room because of time constraints. So, I was Googling hotels, and called my beautiful sister for ideas, when she said she had a FREE (INCLUDING TAX-there is a room and board tax here in TX) stay at any La Quinta Suite Hotel. **Pretty suite!
So my room and board are covered!
Hotel: $0

Next challenge is food. I have a $15 Pizza Hut GC on the way from MyPoints. Hopefully it will get here in time. That could work out really well with the Buy a Large and get 1 for a penny deal!
So here is my goals:
Less than $60 total OOP for Gas
$20 total OOP for food (1 adult, 4 kids) for the 2 day trip.
Breakfast is included at the hotel.

Will update totals when I can! I LOVE a challenge!

**Pun intended

Monday, February 16, 2009

Not much to share

I have not made many posts lately simply because I have not had anything to share. Plus, we have been super busy with the closing of Basketball and my youngest childs birthday. The party turned out nice, but I had no great deals to share. I haven't been to CVS in WEEKS and my Walgreens trips have turned out to be a bust. The only thrifty highlight in the last few weeks has been our Valentines party.
I put my 10 year old in charge of the family party, and she had a budget of $10, of which she spent $9. Each (4 kids) child had a bag of candy, we had decorations and ice cream, so she did a great job! If I can get the pics uploaded, she made great little mailboxes for everyone out of Kleenex boxes, and I know she was proud of them.
My hubby also suprised me with a new Blackberry Pearl (which was totally not needed or necessary) but he went thrifty for me! It is a refurbished that cost less than half of what the "new" phones cost.
I am hoping to get more tips posted, and maybe some guest posts.
Thanks for reading.

Friday, February 13, 2009

Tightwad Tip: Learning your address

When teaching my kids their address and phone number I used a magazine subscription postcard to teach them. I was reminded of this idea after about ten of them fell out of my All You! magazine.
It also reinforces writing skills because they must print clearly in a confined space. These postcards can be found in any magazine. You can often find them in the free magazine pile at the library or in waiting rooms. This is another one of those easy things to carry in your purse to keep you kids busy when you need them to be!

Saturday, February 7, 2009

FREE Stuff From Earths Best Baby Food

Did you know that Elmo's birthday is February 3rd? In honor of Elmo's' birthday, Earths Best Baby Food is offering the DVD " Elmo Love You!" FREE with proofs of purchase and $1.49 Shipping and handling.
Check out the page HERE
You will also be automatically entered in the Random House Sweepstakes to win a Grand Prize vacation to Sesame Place or one of twenty-five First Prize Earth's Best Gift packs!
Also on this page you will see how to get a Healthy Monsters Coloring Book and lots of valuable coupons from Earths Best Baby Food.

Monday, February 2, 2009

Redbox codes for 2/2 BONUS code for Wags!

Here is your Redbox promo code for Mondy, 2/2

D9P24G good at any location today, expires at midnight.

DVDATWAG good today, Feb 2 only and only good at Walgreens. code good until midnight.

Thanks Erin!

Free Book from Pampers!

Check out Niki's post to see how you can get a FREE book from Scholastic from Pampers!

Friday, January 30, 2009

DVD's for Free?




This is a picture showing how much my 2yr old was excited to see Elmo under the paper this Christmas. I got that DVD from Swap A DVD for $0! This great site allows you to swap DVD's across the country!
Here is how it works:
*You have original, playable DVDs that you do not want to keep.

*You post those DVDs to your "DVD Tower" to offer to other members.

*After you have posted the first 10 DVDs to your DVD Tower, you get 1 "gift" credit from SwapaDVD to get you started swapping (limit one per household). After that, you earn credits by sending out DVDs to others.

*You may order available DVDs for 1 credit per disc (some DVDs do cost more than 1 credit)
If you want a DVD that is not currently available, you can place it on your Wish List and we will notify you by email when it is available for you to order. You can even have it sent to you automatically when it becomes available, with no email necessary.

*When a DVD is requested from you, we notify you by email, provide the address for you to send it out, and even provide a wrapper with postage printed on it if desired!

*Wrap and mail your DVD.

*When the requestor receives it, you earn 1 credit per disc mailed. Yes, you pay the postage to send out your DVDs, but when you request a DVD, the sender ships it to you and you pay 1 DVD credit (some DVDs do cost more than 1 credit)!

*The DVDs you receive from SwapaDVD are yours. We hope that you will repost them to share with other members when you have viewed them, but you can certainly keep them, or give them away.
Similarly, the DVDs you send out to others belong to their new owners.
SwapaDVD is a great way to share DVDs with people all over the country!
Here is the link again: SwapaDVD

Thursday, January 29, 2009

So much for that!

Well, I just got word from my local CVS that the converter boxes came in yesterday, and sold out yesterday. My coupons expire today, so in an emergency attempt to save my coupons, I called Radio Shack and they have them in stock for about $54.00. Ugh, I really needed them to be free, but I don't want to waste the government coupons either.

AOL Reader Tips

Ok, so every once in a while, AOL News posts some "Money Saving Tips" or "Frugal Tips" etc. I usually read and scoff at them. Mostly because they are so basic, they are not worth sharing. This one however, did have a few bright spots, including how to save on home heating oil. Thought I would share it.
http://www.walletpop.com/economizer/your-frugal-tips?icid=200100397x1217021148x1201154443

And I also saw on AOL yesterday that the USPS is considering dropping a mail delivery day, because they are so in the red. And be prepared, there will be a postal increase in May. The amount will be announced next month.

Wednesday, January 28, 2009

A Little Find at Walgreens

So I finally found my camera! Bad news is they cracked the screen and now the pics are fuzzy and horrid. Sorry about that.
I took my daughter,Christy into Walgreens last night to get some of the things she needed for our Valentines party (update on that later) and we saw this.
It is a nice water bottle filled with samples. We got a 4pk of crayons, hand cream for dry and sensitive skin, a 7 day medication dispenser, hand sanitizer gel pin, chap-aid, and a pocket pack of facial tissues. Not bad for .99! I plan on going back for more soon.

Monday, January 26, 2009

Redbox Code 1/26

Here is the Redbox code for 1/26

57VH9L

Code is good at all RedBox locations until midnight tonight.

CVS...

I ran into CVS yesterday morning before church in the hopes of getting 2 converter boxes, BUT they didn't have any. My favorite cashier Athen was working and offered to write me 2 rain checks! I gladly took them, and she told me a truck was coming tomorrow (today) with the boxes, and wrote the stores phone # so I could call in advance! I LOVE Athen! My kiddos were begging for gum to take to church, so I got 2 Mentos, even had my .55/2 coupon with me, and my receipt had 6 CRT coupons! The most exciting one was $10/$50. I have never gotten one of these before. So, the wheels started turning and I came up with this scenario:
2 converter boxes $80
Huggies on sale for $10.00
2 Mento Gum BOGO $1.69
total : 91.69
-10.00 CVS Q
-80.00 Government Q's for the boxes
-1.50 Huggies Q
= .19
providing I can get the boxes, this is gonna be a sweet deal! I won't be earning any ECB though.

Friday, January 23, 2009

Well....

Well, the 7 days of turkey was a good idea! However by Tuesday, my husband was begging for a break! I still have a Ziplock quart bag full of turkey, and the bones and such to make broth with (which I will do this weekend). There are still so many meals I can make with just that!

Haven't been doing much shopping much except for the very basics and haven't gotten a great, or ever good deal, for a while. Sigh.

I did however find a trade in bookstore yesterday that my kids and I are in love with. Ahhh! I loved walking in there! I love the smell of books! I am such a weird-O.
My one treasure was a book, "Trash to Treasure", which has some amazing crafts to make from aluminum cans, plastic bottles, steel cans, etc.

My baby girls birthday is in 2 weeks, so I guess that will be my next challenge!
Hopefully it will be blogable!

Monday, January 19, 2009

Turkey Meal #4



Turkey Enchiladas and Spanish Rice



I used the above recipe from my older version of Better Homes and Gardens Cookbook, which is my favorite because it has the best, simplist instructions and recipes.



meal cost

turkey: $0

tortillas,cheese, sour cream and other fillings:$2.06

rice: $1.74



total cost of meal: $3.80

I did forget some of the topping

7 Day Turkey Forcast

We had a turkey in the freezer that hubby got at work for Christmas that we didn't use over the holidays. I felt a challenge in my tightwad ways coming on, so here is my plan for the turkey, the meals (and meal cost) we have made so far. I will update each day with recipe and meal cost.
I also have the advantage of a HUGE electric roaster my mom got me last year. I think the turkey was between 12-15 lbs, thawed it for 2 days then put it in the roaster on Thursday, it was done in about 5 hours. The only seasoning I did while roasting was some butter and salt and pepper. We began our turkey adventure Friday night. (remember turkey cost is $0)

Friday--
turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans and toast.

turkey:$0
instant potatoes: $.60 + .20 for milk and butter=.80
green beans: $1.00
toast: about .50
total cost of Friday meal:$2.30

this night we basically ate the legs and half of one of the breast. Then I pulled as much meat as I could, filling 3 quart size Ziplock bags.

Saturday--
Turkey and Rice Bake

turkey: $0
rice: $.58 (about half a box of Minute Rice I got for $1.12 @ Kroger)
can of cream of mushroom soup: $.59

total cost: $1.17
This is a super easy, fast, and CHEAP meal! Just cook rice according to directions, add turkey or chicken, stir in soup, mixing well,sprinkle top with salt and pepper, bake in the oven for 10 min @ 350*, voila! Add a bag of steamed veggies for a healthier meal!

Sunday--
BBQ Turkey Sandwiches

turkey: $0
BBQ sauce: $.78
buns: $1.10
fries: $1.17

total meal cost: $3.05
I tried to use most of the darker meat for this one. Also made leftovers that I will be able to freeze for later use. Just use two forks to shred the meat, and cook with the BBQ sauce for about 10 minutes.YAY!

Looking forward to the rest of the weeks turkey meals!

Sunday, January 18, 2009

hotSacks Giveaway!

Erin at http://jane4girls800dollarannualbudget.blogspot.com/2009/01/hot-giveaway-from-hotsacks.html is hosting a great giveaway for a set of hotSacks, reusable grocery bags! Check it out!

Book Review "The Shack"




Every once in a while a book comes along that stirs and uplifts your very soul! "The Shack" by William P. Young is one of them.* Just as a note, this is a work of fiction* This is my review of the book, not a copy and paste document.




Three years ago Macks youngest daughter, Missy is abducted on a family camping trip. The only evidence left by her assailant is her bloody, torn dress in a Shack deep in the Oregon reserve. As most parents can imagine the effects of this tragedy are far and wide. Macks heart has grown cold toward God, and his other daughter, Kate, is withdrawn since her sisters disappearance.
Then one day, Mach receives a simple note in the mail.
Mackenzie-
It's been a while. I've missed you. I will be at the shack next weekend if you want to get together.
---Papa
Who would or could have sent such a note? Macks wife Nan often uses the affectionate name Papa for God, but God doesn't write notes. Does he? And why would He want to meet Mack at the place where Macks heart was torn apart?
Curiosity does finally get the better, and he prepares to go, telling no one in his family. After a long drive, and fighting many urges to turn around, he arrives at the shack to find it just as he had seen it three years ago. What was he expecting? Did he really think that God would show up in a shack in the wilderness?
What happens next, the journey ahead of him, will change his life, and those of the people around him, forever. And it could possibly change yours as well.
This book gave me personally, incredible insight into the wisdom, and over powering love of God. I HIGHLY recommend it. Since it is on the bestsellers list, most Public Libraries have at least one copy. (if you are unable to purchase one) If you local library doesn't have one, please consider buying the book yourself, then donating it.
You can read the first chapter online now at: http://theshackbook.com/

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

Lemonade Award

AlanaJo @ http://justniftythrifty.blogspot.com/ and Ms.Burrows @http://willowwinter.blogspot.com/ nominatied my blog for the Lemonade Award!


"If you are not familiar with what the Lemonade Award is, the Lemonade Award is given by a previous winner to 10 people who have shown a great attitude or gratitude this week. It’s a great way to show these people that you appreciate them."

10 Blogs I would like to nominate:

1. http://onefrugallady.blogspot.com/ just cause I enjoy Jenny's Blog so much!

2.http://makingdowiththenotsonew.blogspot.com/ That lady is a GENIUS!

3.http://nickels-n-dimes.blogspot.com/ Like her posts a lot.

4.http://mommymanaging.blogspot.com/ We have almost the same stores, so I know I can use her info.

5.http://www.thethriftymama.com/ The difinative blog as far as I am concerned!

6.http://justniftythrifty.blogspot.com/ Alana has a real talent for photography and graphics, and I feel blessed just reading her blog!

7.http://www.engineeradebtfreelife.com/ I like their pic by pic tutorials

8.http://www.commonsensewithmoney.com/ Great match-ups, with a lot of deatils.

9.http://queenofmytrailer.wordpress.com/ What a great writer!! And you should see all the fantastic work she has done on her home!

10.http://adventuresoffrugalgirl.blogspot.com my fellow Kizoodle bloggin mama! Melanie I love your blog!

What to Do Now? Please share this opportunity with your favorite bloggers by doing the following:


1.Put the logo on your blog or post.

2.Nominate at least 10 blogs, which show great Attitude and/or Gratitude! Be sure to link your nomination to your post.

3.Let them know that they have received this award by commenting on their blog.

4.Share the love and link to this post and to the person from whom you received your award.






Free Suave

In case you hadn't heard, Suave is giving away free shampoo to every woman in America today only!

Here is the link:
http://www.suave.com/nomics/index.html

Monday, January 12, 2009

Quick Wal-Mart trip

2 boxes of Arm&Hammer baking soda (.38 each)

Large can of tomato sauce (.84)

AuGratin potatoes (2.06)

Green Giant Steamers (1.23)



total before coupons: $4.91



total after coupons: $.83



Used: $1/2 Arm&Hammer, FREE AuGratin potatoes from Betty Crocker( got a bad batch), and $1.00 off steamers.

Redbox Movie Code for 1/12

Here is the Redbox code for today!

H48MX2

Enjoy your FREE movie tonight!

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Random Acts of Kindness

I really enjoy helping people, whether they know the help came from me or not. In this day and age, it is getting harder to help others. Thought I would share with you a few ways to do Random Acts of Kindness that are easy, and basically free or very low cost.

Be a coupon fairy!
Leave non-expired coupons on the items (or on the same shelf) in the store. I did this the other day with $8 worth of Beech-Nut coupons. I do this a lot with diaper coupons as well, since I don't use most of them.

Leave your code behind
Every time I get a Redbox movie, I was sharing my code with the next person in line. I finally got smart and got some Post-It notes, and I leave the Codes on the machine for the next person(s) to use.

Give away multiple rebates
Have you ever bought more that one, and have the information for a duplicate rebate? Send it to some else! What a nice surprise for the recipient. I started doing this for my mom (but you could send to anyone you have an address for) by just filling out the form with her information. You would be surprised how wonderful it is to receive even a $2 check from out of the blue!

Freecycle(http://www.freecycle.org/)
Never underestimate the power of Freecycle! You may never know how much you have blessed someone by giving something away.

Clothes drop
Do you know someone in your church or community that has a child that can wear your child's outgrown clothes? Wrap them in a pretty bag, and leave on their doorstep. You will feel like Santa! Especially if you are able to add a small toy.

These are just small ideas. Do you have any others to share? Please share in the comments section!

Monday, January 5, 2009

Shopping totals: Wags, CVS,, Wal-Mart

Haven't been able to update a whole lot lately. So, just gonna throw my totals out there, no pics, my lovely seem to have lost my camers.

First stop, Walgreens

1 Electrosol $3.49
6 Reynolds Wrap Foil $6.36
1 High School Musical 2009 Calendar $1.00 clearance
3 drinks for the kids( after a failed trip to the movies, they were thirsty)$2.29

Used .99 Wags coupon from flyer, applied 6 times
6 $1.00 off Reynolds Wrap Foil
1 $2.50 Eletrosol Coupon

total after coupons=$4.57, on my Walgreens Rebate Gift Card, plus will earn 1.50 Walgreens Rebate

CVS
Started with NO ECB,following the $5 CVS Challenge(http://www.kingdomfirstmom.com/2009/01/cvs-5-challenge-january-4-10th.html?showComment=1231223760000#c1862536133088384953)

1 Garnier 2.99
used 1.00 off coupon from 1/4 insert
=$2.15 OOP
earned 2 ECB

2 Glad Plug-In Twin Refills
-2 ECB
-1.00 Glade Coupon (found in package)
-5.49 (BOGO coupon from insert a few weeks ago)
=$2.70 OOP
earned 4 ECB

Wal-Mart
they were out of most of the items I went in for, ugh

2 Arm&Hammer Baking Soda @.38 each
2 Rayovac batteries @ .94 each
SoftLips Vanilla 1.77

total after coupons .46

Thursday, January 1, 2009

Goals for 2009

Thought I would share some of my financial and personal goals for the new year.

*increase my giving to my church
*keep up with the $5 CVS challenge, and include Walgreen's as well(when possible)
*create a more workable budget
*bake more from scratch
included in the above goal is to find the replacement part for my bread maker!
*create a gift box (we seem to be swamped with birthday parties in the spring time, so this will help a lot)
*cut energy costs! I have to get a drying line up this year!!!
*make my own laundry soap
*recycle as much as possible in my community (we don't have a recycling pick-up or program here)
*plant a garden
*post an item on Freecycle weekly, I really need to get rid of stuff
*get my house organized (I can dream anyway,LOL
*I need to get some serious help with this blog. I really, really only know basics, and I need to learn some things! I would love to have a blinkie, and post other ppls blinkies here too. Need a blog makeover,teehee.

*this is going to be the year that I finally learn to sew!

I can think of so many, many things I need to do, but I am sure no one wants to be reading this post for hours on end!
Hope you all had a safe New Years Eve!

Be blessed in this New Year!