Look what I've been up to......

So, I've been leading up to this in a couple of my older posts. I recently watched a class on You Tube about Sis. DeWitt and how she organizes her food storage. I was really impressed with some of her methods and so here's where I am today. (I will post the links to her You Tube class below - it's 9 segments and about an hour - a well spent hour).


I decided to purchase a Food Saver. I was going to buy one on Ebay, but when I came across a discount code for it, I found a new one (online) for about $68 (about the same price I could have bought a used one for on Ebay). The one I ordered is a V2830, but any model with a port will work. I also got 2 canisters, a large mouth jar sealer and 2 rolls in the box. In Sis. DeWitt's presentation she shows you how to seal the foods you buy in jars. The basis behind it - is that if you buy in bulk, there is only a certain timeframe in which the food will last. If you can/bottle it, it removes the air and gives it a little longer shelf life. Sis. DeWitt suggests that you test the top of your jars yearly to make sure the seal is still tight. If the seal has broken, you can re-seal it or use that jar first.


Last Fall (about October), I bought 20 bags of chocolate chips ($.79/bag). Now I like chocolate chips, but I don't use them that quickly. They would probably turn white before I got around to using all of them. This is why I started with them first.

This is a picture of the foodsaver and some bottles already done (upper middle) and some other jars ready to be sealed.

I bottled all 20 bags of chocolate chips. They fit perfectly in a pint size jar.

Of course I had to save the best for last. Now that the Valentine candy is on clearance, I picked some up and bottled it too. It's great to know that if I ever had to depend on my food storage it wouldn't be just beans, wheat and rice. At least I could have a sweet treat from time to time. I also love to make those peanut butter cookies with Hershey kisses in them and I never seem to have the kisses when I want to make the cookies. Now I'm ready to go.

I plan to also bottle my kernal corn, spaghetti noodles and other pasta's, and even my brown sugar. I'm still so new at this, I'm sure there will be many other things I can bottle. I plan to post more of what I end up bottling in the future.

A couple of things:

I have a variety of bottles (both wide mouth and small mouth). My Food Saver only came with a wide mouth jar sealer. I tried to order a small mouth sealer from the company, but Food Saver has discontinued making them. I found a new one on Ebay - but I'm sure they won't be around for long. I also found them through Bed Bath and Beyond as well as Cabela's. If the company has discontinued them, they may not be something these stores carry for long.

I am a part of a group called FreeCycle. This is a Yahoo group where people can post things that they no longer need or want and people post for things they want or are looking for. When I decided bottle some of my food, I went out and asked if anyone was getting rid of canning jars and I had 2 people respond. I probably got between 50-100 jars for free. I'm always looking for a way to save and this really helped. Anyone can join the group and sign up for the area in which you live in- you can check it out on the link above.

I checked to see if there was a current online code for the FoodSaver and did not find one. You can periodically check back at this link to see if there is something new posted.

Lastly, here are the links for Sis. DeWitt's presentation on food storage (this is LDS oriented). You really need to watch her presentation to get the full effect of how easy it is and she's got great ideas on so many other things as well! I've already borrowed a pressure cooker and I'm canning meat soon.

Sis. DeWitt also has a booklet that goes along with her presentation. You can print it from this link (Everything Under the Sun).

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhGaTlwYs-s Food Storage Seminar Part 1. "Top 10 Reasons"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUaFMEyLXOM&feature=related Food Storage Seminar, Part 2 of 9. "The System"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4woLOnURFiw&feature=related Food Storage Seminar, Part 3 of 9. "Worst Case Scenario"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_9Drrd2wt8k&feature=related Food Storage Seminar, Part 4 of 9. "Equivalency Page"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CE5WVOqLp2k&feature=related Food Storage Seminar, Part 5 of 9. "Where to store it all"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33bovjbt8nk&NR=1 Food Storage Seminar, Part 6 of 9. "Pressure Canning Meat"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0vigcycRhWs&feature=related Food Storage Seminar, Part 7 of 9. "Solar Oven Cooking"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0XWoeWRDdI&feature=related Food Storage Seminar, Part 8 of 9. "Food Saver"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MoYHLW8HR7Y&feature=related Food Storage Seminar, Part 9 of 9. "Questions and Answers"

I hope this inspires you to stock up on things at the grocery store at their lowest prices and here's one way to store those "extra's" to provide a longer shelf life. I would love to hear your comments and ideas if you get a chance to watch this.

Rhodes Warm-N-Serv

I was pleasantly surprised yesterday when the UPS truck delivered a fun package from Rhodes. I got an email a few weeks ago from them, thanking me for posting some recipes from Rhodes on my blog. In the email they asked me if I would like to recieve some free samples of their Warm-n-Serv pan. Of course I replied and said sure. This is what they sent me.

1 pkg of Dinner Rolls

1 pkg Garlic Butter Rolls

2 pkgs Multi Grain Rolls

2 pkgs Sticky Buns

They come frozen in their own pan and all you have to do is heat the oven to 350 degrees and warm for about 15 minutes. We tried a package of the Multi Grain Rolls last night and they were pretty tasty. So watch the freezer section for these yummy rolls.

I love surprises like this. I had no idea they would send so many or that kind of variety.

Cut your grocery bill in half - news story

Cut your grocery bill in half

Reported by: Nicea Degering Last Update: 2/19 1:06 pm

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4 News) - When economic times get tough, the tough look for ways to cut costs. And one Utah mom says the place to do it is at the grocery store. She’s been slicing her receipts in half.

"Before we started shopping this way, we were spending about four hundred dollars a month on groceries. With times getting tough, I was trying to find a way to cut back and that's the first thing I thought of was groceries, because that is under my control."

Shauntell Ottley has three children and her husband was out of work, so she says she had no choice.She had to find food for her family - for less. "When I first learned how to do it, I was skeptical. But within the first week, I spent one hundred and twenty dollars the first week, and I saved sixty-seven."

What did she learn? How did she do it?Ottley walked the grocery aisles with us so we could see the savings.

Earlier that day she accessed a free website that takes local store ads and combines them with any available manufacturers coupons.Then she printed out a list of what her family needs."So then I use the coupons for items already on sale, and I was getting them at an even greater discount," Ottley says.

From half off the cooking spray, to forty cent spaghetti sauce, we stocked up and Ottley checked out.She spent forty-seven dollars and saved eight-eight.

For Ottley’s family of five, spending seventy percent less means more financial freedom.

"Saving this amount on our groceries has allowed us to live on our own now. We're on our own and I can't do it without crying, our fifty dollar budget makes it so we can be independent again."

This happens with every shopping trip. You can scroll through my posts to see. If you're interested in making this happen for you too, call me at 801-589-3946 or callmestacy@yahoo.com and I'll show you how. FREE CLASS and FREE WEBSITE.

Grocery Smarts will be featured in a segment on Channel 4 morning news (2/20/09)

If you'd like to see a condensed version of how Grocery Smarts works - watch channel 4, tomorrow morning to see how you can save tons of $$$ at the grocery store. The morning news airs from 5 - 7 am (sorry not sure when in that timeframe the segment will air). If you can't watch, check out ABC4's website tomorrow for the details of the story http://www.abc4.com/Default.aspx.

If you like what you see and want to know more call me at 801-589-3946 or callmestacy@yahoo.com.

I'm savin' at Albertson's!

I just barely went grocery shopping this week at Smith's so I didn't really need a lot at the Albertson's sale, but when it's a good deal - it's a good deal. I did not get up early to go either. I was crossing my fingers that there would still be enough of the things I wanted to make it worth my time.

Here's what I came home with.

3 Darigold flavored milk - for the kids

1 Coke for me (I'm beginning to wonder if I go shopping just so I can buy the "big" Coke :)

10 Betty Crocker fruit snacks - I just stocked up on those at Smith's, but hey - I have 3 kids who like fruit snacks and they last for a while.

9 Warm Delights

2 boxes of Cinnamon Toast Crunch

2 pkgs Albertson's cheese singles (these were only $.88 w/ in-store coupon, limit 4)

2 bags of Albertson's cookies - okay if you haven't tried these they are very moist and chewy. I only have one bag in the picture because the Albertson's I shopped at was selling bags with the frozen dough as well and I forgot the other bag was in the freezer. I guess you can pre-order these cookies frozen. I was advised to pop them into the oven at 350 degrees for about 8 minutes. Plus I got 2 bags for $3.00, they each had $1.00 coupons on the pkg. A sweet treat for now and later.

9 Betty Crocker bags of cookie mix

9 Campbell's soup

2 Macaroni Grill dinners

2 bags of Albertson's chips - (these were only $.97 w/ in-store coupon, limit 2)

3 bags of Hershey's Valentine candy (50% off) - watch my next blog to see what I do with these.

Drumroll pleassssssssssssssseeeeeeeeeee............ I spent $68.44 and received 3, $10 catalina's and one $3.50 catalina to use on my next shopping trip. So really I only spent $34.94. I got all that is pictured above for just over $30. I had 51 items (3 sets of 10 GM products - earning me the $30) which made each item approximately $.67 a piece.

Why don't you let me prove to you how you can do it to!!! Call me at 801-589-3946

A preview of Albertson's sale (starting tomorrow 2/18/09)

Here's the link where you can check out the sale. It looks like there are a lot of 4 and 5 star items. This would be a great time to stock up if you need any of these items! It certainly sounds like this will be a good one. Maybe one you need to get up early for..... I'll let you decide though.

Savings at Smith's

You know......now that I've been a steady couponer for about 18 months you start to see cycles in the way you buy things. Mostly, I just try to fill the holes in my pantry and keep the pantry stocked. As sales also cycle, I find myself either spending a large amount to fill those holes or around $50 a week (if that). Today's shopping trip added up to more than I normally spend. I guess I have a lot of holes to fill or the prices were good enough with coupons, I just had to have more than one. Even though this is not one of my best shopping trips (price wise), I still saved and I bought things that my family will use.

Well here you have it.

4 gallons of distilled water

1 bunch of bananas

4 AquaFresh toothbrushes (going into storage)

5 boxes Total Cinnamon Crunch (storage and $.94 each)

8 boxes Betty Crocker fruit snacks/stickerz (getting low - going to storage)

2 boxes Hefty kitchen garbage bags (storage)

4 jars Ragu spaghetti sauce (storage)

1 pkg Energizer D batteries

2 loaves Grandma Sycamore bread (storage - out in the freezer)

12 Yoplait yogurts

2 boxes Oreo Cakesters (both were free with coupons I had)

2 bags Dole salad

1 pkg Scott TP

4 bags Fritos (they were small bags and I shouldn't have to buy corn chips for a while)

1 pkg Swiffer sweeper refills (I've needed these for quite some time)

1 pkg of Kroger ChipMates

Not Pictured: 2, 4lb bags of chicken breasts (storage - out in the freezer), 4 Totino's party pizza's, 2 Freshetta Pizza Amore' pizza's (all pizza's are also in the freezer and I consider them storage for right now). It's nice to have a quick meal from time to time. One 20, oz Coke and 1 Rico chicken Fajita for lunch - already gone.

In total I spent $118.34 and saved $63.79. Like I mentioned above there will be certain times that you just spend more than others. I justify it by knowing that I won't be spending this kind of $$ every shopping trip.

Tip - I have found that sometimes when I wait until the end of the sale - I seem to find most of the items I want. If you find that the store is out of the item(s) you came to purchase try changing the day you shop. Stores usually get shipments in every few days. If this doesn't work - you can always ask for a raincheck!

1, 2, 3 and they're gone....

Tracie, Ku'uipo and Shaylyn are getting the Beer Rebates. Watch your mail - they're coming your way. I'm always trying to pick these up. Hopefully, I'll be able to offer more in the future. In the meantime - keep your eyes peeled for these freebies it's a great way to pad your wallet.

Givin' away 3 Beer Rebates

I've talked about Beer Rebates before, but they are kind of hard to find so I'll do a little refresher.

What's so special about a Beer Rebate?

Beer rebates are ways to get money back or free items from the beer company.

Where do I find Beer Rebates?

You can find them at the store in the beer sections. The rebates are usually on a tearpad or look like a folded brochure.

What do I have to do to get the free items?

Each rebate is a little different. The rebate itself will tell you what you need to do to get the free items. You need to save your receipts and circle the items it's asking for and then mail it in to the address supplied on the rebate. In the state of UTAH you do not have to buy beer to get the free item. Make sure to watch the dates and read the instructions carefully to get the free items returned to you. You can only turn one of each kind in per household.

With this being said, I came across some the other day. Since these are kind of hard to come across, I picked up a few extra and wanted to give them away.

Here are the specifics for this particular rebate:

1 - Offer goes from 12/8/08 to 2/28/09

2 - You receive $7.50 back if you purchase $30 worth of salty snacks, ice, water, and/or soda (any brand, any size)

3 - The original dated cash-register receipt(s) (with purchase price(s) circled).

Offer is only good for residents of AL, AR, CT, HI, IN, KY, ME, MO, NC, NJ, NY, SD, UT, VA, VT and WV who are of legal drinking age.

4 - The offer must be recieved by 3/28/09.

Now that you know the specifics - don't forget to use coupons on the $30 you have already spent or are planning to spend.

The giveway - the first 3 people that email me (callmestacy@yahoo.com)with their name and address will get one in the mail. I will send them out shortly.

Don't forget..... this is a great time of year to schedule a couponing class. I can teach you the basics and within weeks you will also see the savings in your pocket!

My latest purchase - at Albertson's

I know - I'm a day late (seriously) and a dollar short on this sale. We've been the sick house this week - so getting to the store for groceries was less than convenient - but I finally made it yesterday.

I found some great buys. I'll post the pictures and then mention the prices and some of the best deals I got.

2 bags of Purina cat food (I had 2, $4.00 coupons for these), each bag was $1.69

Suave conditioner - free

Huggies $17.99 (I had a $2.00 coupon for this one)

Coke (just to survive!!!!)

Good Nites (I had a coupon from Target for $1.50), I paid $9.19

6 bottles of Suave shampoo/conditioner $.97 each



1 whole chicken ($.99/lb) - $4.34

2, 1lb pkgs of deli sliced turkey - $6.29

1 pkg Kraft cheese - free

2 bags of Goldfish crackers $1.50 each

3 Darigold chocolate/strawberry milk (not a great buy - but the kids love them) $1.00 each

1 bag Cheetos

8 Yoplait yogurts (I had a coupon from Target, $1.00 off of 8)

Valentine treats (some fun things for my kids to give each other)


1 box Cheese Nips - free

1 bottle of Planters peanuts - free

3 bags of Hershey's minatures and kisses (I used my double coupons on the $1.00 coupon I already had) each bag was $.99

2 Kerr small mouth and 2 Kerr large mouth canning lids (wait until you see what I am going to do with these....future blog)

1 gallon Albertson's oj

1 pks Reser's tortillas

1 bag of salad - $.99

1 pkg Albertsons string cheese

4 bags David's sunflower seeds (hubby's favorite snack)

Not pictured: 1 doz eggs (forgot to pull out of fridge and 1 container of Albertson's cookies that went with son to pre-school this morning)

I paid $115.22 and saved $63.19 (I wish it were the other way around, but that's how it goes sometimes). I still got some great deals.

Albertson's is also starting a new savings program based on how much you spend on groceries, you earn so much towards a discount on filling up at their gas stations. This shopping trip earned me $.15 off per gallon (20 gallon max). Not bad.....

Albertson's is doubling up to 4 coupons again

The sale starts goes from 2/4/08 to 2/10/08. You have to have an Albertson's ad and you can double up to 4 of your own manufacturer's coupons. The fine print says:

Maximum value $1.00. Coupons valued at $1.01 or higher are not eligible for doubling. Offer does not apply to in-store, competitor, alcohol, tobacco or FREE coupons. Total coupon redemption cannot exceed price of item. No cash refund. One double coupon per manufacturer's coupon. Four double coupons per family per shopping trip. Photocopies of this coupon are not accepted. Misredemption constitutes fraud.

Here is a link to the Pinching Your Pennies blog thread. There is a list of some double coupon offers.

Oh - Happy Day!

Coupon Class Reminder

I don't know about you, but I just recently got my December bill from my credit card and yes - it made me cringe a little.

If you're interested in saving money at the grocery store, I can certainly help you.

I teach a free class that will show you how to:

1- get coupons
2 - organize those coupons
3 - use the free website (Grocery Smarts)
4 - decipher some grocery lingo
5 - play some games
6 - and ULTIMATELY - put more $$ back in your pocket.

All you have to do is:
1 - contact me (callmestacy@yahoo.com or 801-589-3946)
2 - get a few friends, neighbors, family members etc.... together
3 - we'll set a date and time and place
4 - I'll come and you'll learn

The class is about 30-60 minutes. I also do mom groups, church groups (enrichments) or any other type of gathering. You could turn this into a fun GNO or a Saturday brunch.

If this sounds like something you're interested in - I hope to hear from you soon. I'm currently booking the rest of February and into March and April.

More Random Freebies

Free Trident Gum - (you have to send a picture of your smile).

Weinerschnitzel Wiener Lovers' Club (free offers all year long) - the name alone just makes me laugh!

20 oz or 2 ltr bottle of Diet Dr. Pepper (first 2 million people who sign up)

Papa John's 25th Anniversary offer (Here's how it works: If the opening kickoff of the Big Game is returned for a touchdown, everyone who pre-registers will be eligible to receive a LARGE 1-topping pizza for just 25 CENTS!)

Pampers Potty Training Kit

McDonalds Free coupons for $1 (almost free)

Gas-X sample

Fisher Price - Sale (save up to 50%)

I recieved an email from Fisher Price today. They are having an online sale today and have some items up to 50% off. Check out their sale by clicking on the link.

I think I have a cereal fetish......

Okay! I made another run to Macey's..... I just had to get more cereal.....I think I have an addiction to buying cereal. The sad part is that I might sit down and eat one bowl of cereal a week. My family does eat a lot though.

I also have to say 2 GREAT things about Macey's.

1 - They have great customer service. Both times I was there in the last week, all the checkers were happy, helpful and smiling. They had people in the store available to questions and that is something I rarely see at other stores I shop at.

2 - I was certainly impressed at their variety and stock of cereal. Both times I visited, they had the tower of cereal. They certainly know how to stock for a good sale.

So here's what I got in my last trip on Saturday.

5 cans of Campbells spaghetti

10 boxes of Betty Crocker fruit snacks

3 heads of Romaine lettuce (mmmmm....Cafe Rio homemade salad)

1 gallon Western Family OJ

1 bag rolls

1 pkg John Morrell bacon

5 red potatoes

4 oranges

3 limes

1 bag baby carrots

1 dozen eggs

2 pkgs of matches (strike anywhere - husband is obsessed with this kind)

2 boxes of Froot Loops

2 boxes of Frosted Flakes

1 box Captain Crunch

2 boxes of Cinnamon Life (Life cereal is my personal favorite)

2 boxes of Cinnamon Oatmeal Squares

Unfortunately, the receipts at Macey's don't tell you how much you saved. I can tell you that I had $18.50 in coupons and my total came to $62.98. I felt like I got quite a bit for the amount I spent. Another good shopping trip!

Macey's made me happy today!

I decided that I wasn't going to wait on this sale. I usually have about 200 boxes of cereal in my pantry at any given time. It's been several months since I've bought any cereal and my family usually goes through 5-7 boxes of cereal a week. I guess it was time to replenish the supply.

I didn't have time to stack them nicely, but here's what I got.

I bought 34 boxes of cereal, some oranges and a few candy bars (bribes for the kids).

I started out at just over $90 and ended up paying $41.89. I would have done a little better had I known before I got home that a couple of my coupons got stuck in the side of the box and neither I nor the cashier saw them. I paid about $1.11 for each box of cereal (I deducted $5.00 from the total to adjust for the oranges and candy bars). If I were you, I would go fast before the selection is gone. I went to the Macey's in Clearfield and they still had a pretty good selection at 2:30 pm today.

Macey's great cereal sale and caselot

So if anyone caught Janet Eyring on Studio 5 today - you would have seen the "tower" of cereal that is on sale. Seriously there is a huge variety (General Mills, Kellogs, Post etc....). Here's a link to some information on her segment so you can see. You can also click on her blog (right hand side of my blog) Living on Less to see more. She was saying that with the combination of the sale and your coupons it was making the boxes anywhere from about $.90 to $1.15 a box. There are also some coupons in your Macey's ad (in-ad coupons) that you need to use. Check out their ad to see their caselot items on sale as well. Hurry in the sale starts today and ends 1/27/09 (sale goes from 1/21 to 1/27).

Cashing in on Quaker and Campbells

I tried to get to the Albertson's sale earlier, but as things would have it - I was shopping this sale in it's last hours. I was pretty pleased with with I got though. Check it out.I took two shots so you could see the things I got a little closer.

Here's the run down:

2 bags Baked Lays potato chips

1 bag Albertson's sleep pants

1 box Jello chocolate pudding singles

2 boxes Carefree panty liners

2 loaves Grandma Sycamore's bread

7 bags Ore Ida frozen potatoes

1 bunch of bananas

12 Dannon yogurts

12 cans Campbell's soup

9 boxes Quaker instant oatmeal

5 boxes Jolly Time popcorn

6 jars Gerber baby food

5 Gerber (2 pk) fruits

2 cans Pam

1 container of Albertson's sour cream

I paid $89.17 and saved $90.17. Not bad for a last minute shopper. The items in red are the only things I did not have coupons for.

Check out my poll (upper right corner). I had this happen to me while I was at the store shopping for these things. Now, I'm interested in what you would do. Feel free to share any comments as well.

Yea....free donuts again

Krispy Kreme is giving away free donuts on Inauguration Day (Jan. 20, 2009). Check out this link for more info. Don't forget your punch cards. If I remember right - Tuesday's are also double punch days. Mmmmmmm .........doooooonnnnnnuuuuuuttttttssssss.

You can also take your kids report cards in and Krispy Kreme will give them 1/2 dozen glazed donuts for free.

Random Stuff.....

I had a lot of things going through my mind today so this is really a bunch of random things.

Tracie sent me a tip (you can do this too, see upper left hand corner of blog). Her hubby went to the store the other day to pick up some items and when he got home he handed her a stack of coupons. She asked him where he got them and he said the self checkout at the grocery store. I thought this was really nice, but with that being said I suggest proceeding with caution and courtesy. Many people either don't want or forget to pick up the coupons (catalina's) that spit out of the self serve registers. Here's where you proceed with caution. If you see that there are coupons available it is best to ask the attendant if you can have them, especially if the coupons are worth a dollar amount off your next shopping trip. This is a great place to pick up some extra coupons. Thanks for the tip!

Caselot - Macey's is having another caselot sale. If any of you saw Janet Eyring's segment on Studio 5 today she was showing some of the best deals there. Here are a couple of things she mentioned as good deals:

Country Fresh Farms powdered milk: Reg $12.xx a can, on sale for $5.99 (has a 15 year shelf life).
55 gallon water drum: Reg $63.xx, on sale for $39.99
Western Family corn and beans: **Didn't catch Reg price, on sale for $.49/can (case of 24)
Western Family applesauce: Reg $.89/can, on sale for $.59/can (case of 24)
Western Family Mandarin Oranges: **Didn't catch Reg price, on sale for $.39/can (case of 24)
**On the ones I did not catch the reg price - I'm sure these are pretty good sale prices since she probably brought some of the best deals to show** You can check your local ad for more deals.

Coupons by mail. I had 2 wonderful surprises in my mailbox today. I had a coupon book from Smith's with at least 20 + coupons in it. I also got a coupon book from Pillsbury with $10.00 of savings inside. I've posted the link to Pillsbury (check 12/31/08 blog entry) to get their book of free coupons. If you've already ordered one - check your mailbox.

Lastly - check out Janet Eyring's blog for a free coupon for Suave shampoo (TODAY ONLY).

How's that for random?

Quaker Sale @ Albertsons (starts tomorrow)

If you've been to my classes, I've said many times that sales often repeat themselves. Here's an oldie, but goodie. To check out the details click on this link for a preview of what's on sale. This is a Pinching Your Pennies list. I know they are having some issues with the printable Quaker coupons - hopefully they will get resolved quickly.

You can also check out this link (Grocery Smarts website tomorrow) and hopefully all the links will be working.

Albertson's is also running some promotions (info is on catalina's that print at the register)

1/9-2/1 Participating Gerber and Gerber Graduates Products (Baby Food, Baby Juice, Graduates from Gerber)
Spend $10, get $2
Spend $15, get $3
Spend $20, get $4 OYNO

12/30/08-1/31/09
Baby products Spend 25.00 or more on participating baby brands between and save 5.00 on your next baby care purchase.

A new show and tell

Aubrey took advantage of this weeks Albertson's sale. She really cashed in.....take a look.

I didnt break it down like the other girls. But I had to share, I have never been so happy about a sale.
So everything you see in the picture (and dont see) totals $238.74 for two shopping trips. With a savings of $363.01
So here is what I bought:

17 boxes of cereal

3 boxes of Fiber one Granola bars

8 boxes of fruit snacks

6 boxes of Betty Crocker potatoes

3 boxes of Toaster Streudel pastries

4 boxes of Fruit Roll ups

4 boxes of Gusher fruit snacks

4 boxes of Bisquick baking mix

2 9 mega rolls of Charmin Toilet paper

5 crest toothpaste

5 packages of Pampers baby wipes refills

4 packages of Pampers diapers

10 bottles of shamp and conitioner Pantene Prov V

3 bottles of Pantene hairspray

2 bottles of Pantene mouse

5 boxes of Puffs Tissue

4 boxes of Kleenex Tissue

3 boxes of Tide laundry detergent

1 bottle of Flinstone Vitamins

8 6/pks of Yoplait Trix Yogurt

8 boxes of gogurt

2 boxes of Always Infinity pads

4 packages of Stayfree pads

12 Yoplait yogurts cups

3 Covergirl makeup products

5 Johnsons and Johnson baby lotion, and baby wash

3 Loreal shampoo for kids

1 deoderant ( I didnt get on sale, or with a coupon, he needed it.)

1 box of Dayquil

1 box of Nyquil

Seriously this makes shopping fun!!!!I want to go again.

(I want to go again - just looking at your great buys! Congratulations on shopping smart and saving so much $$$).

I'm back in the saddle!

After a month long break without doing any serious couponing, I'm buckling down and getting serious again.

I finally made it to the Albertson's sale (YEA!!!! It's been kinda crazy at my place this week).

Here's a couple of pictures of what I purchased - granted the store was pretty bare (I might try again next week to see if I can pick up a few more items).

Transaction #1

2 Tide $11.99 each (2 coupons for $1.00 off - one mfg, one from another store)
3 Dawn $2.50 each (3 coupons for $.50 off)
(I had one $1.00 coupon for Tide that was doubled and 2 coupons for $.50 on the Dawn that were doubled - taking an additional $2.00 off the total). With my preferred savings card I paid $28.03, but recieved $15.00 back.



Transaction #2
3 Cascade $5.00 (3 coupons for $1.00)
2 Pantene hair spray $ 3.34 (2 coupons for $1.00)
2 Fruit by the Foot $2.00 (1 coupon, $1.00 off of 2)
2 Yoplait family packs $2.50 (2 coupons for $.75 off)
3 coupons for $1.00 were doubled with took off an additional $3.00 and I used the $15.00 from the first transaction to pay for my second. I spent $8.66 on my second transaction and got another $15.00 back.

I applied this $15.00 to the rest of my groceries in addition to the other coupons I had. In total I spent $97.37. I took advantage of the Malt-o-meal cereal deal, the Albertson's butter and the Albertson's cheese (the coupons on the front page of the ad). I also bought some basics: chicken, oj, coke, corn chips, bacon and some other stuff. I also bought a DiGiorno pizza because I have a beer rebate to send it.

So there you have it. I'm back in the saddle. I wish I had done a little better - I had to improvise with what the store still had left. Hopefully you will find all you're looking for.

And remember - if you'd like to share your great purchases (does not need to be at Albertson's), I'm sure everyone would love to see what you got.

A very good shopper

Tracie sent me a picture of her shopping trip. She laid it out step by step. Yes, she had to do several transactions, but the savings look well worth it! Thanks Tracie and Congratulations on all your savings!
Transaction 1
3 Dawn dish soap reg price 3.99 on sale 2.50
2 Tide detergent reg price 18.48 on sale 11.99
Total before coupons: 31.48

Total after coupons and tax etc:$28.25 PLUS $15 in coupons printed out for my next order

So... Transaction 2
2 8 pk Bounty paper towels reg price 18.29 on sale for $10.00
2 Crest premium toothpaste re price 3.29 on sale $2.50
2 Oral B advantage Toothbrush reg price 2.99 on sale $2.50
Total BEFORE coupons: $30

Total AFTER coupons and tax (INCLUDING the $15 off from transaction1): $15.53
(and another $15 in coupons printed out for my next purchase!)

Are you still with me? Good!

Transaction 3
***Note, i had planned to buy the Charmin 9 ct Mega roll on sale for $10 in this transaction, but they were out so I had improvise so i stocked up on Cascade I will go back for the TP!***

2 cascade gel and 4 cascade action packs reg price 5.99 on sale for $5 total before coupons $30.00

Total after coupons (including the $15 from Transaction 2): $13.42 and another $15 off printed for my next order!

Transaction 4
1 tide reg price 18.49 sale $11.99
2 Gillette Fusion razors reg price 10.99 (thought was on sale for 8.99, but didn't ring up, but still a slammin' deal after coupons! I learn as I go.) (We all learn - thanks for sharing this tip)
1 BB muffin mix reg price: 3.99 sale $2.50
Total before coupons:36.47
Coupons: I doubled the razor coupons to $5 off each then used my $15 off from transaction 3 and .35 off tide.
Total transaction: $13.42 Then more $15 off coupons printed, and I can go back and get my tp and use them and get $15 more! See the pattern of saving here?

If I add up my total saving from what it says on my receipt I saved a total of $112.14 The total I spent today was $73.23 minus $15 off (I will probably go use it for the essentials like milk and eggs etc.) equals ... $58.23!

Way to go....Anyone else want to show and tell or maybe just brag a little???? I'd love to hear from you and all your success stories.

So who wants to show and tell?

Okay - so I missed the first and second day of Albertson's great sale. Trust me I'm dying to go.

Anyway - I thought it would be fun to ask if anyone would like to send me a picture(s) of their great purchases with as much detail as you'd like. I would really like to know what you did spend and what you would have spent! Soooooo...... if any of you are happy and willing - forward me your pictures of your shopping trip to callmestacy@yahoo.com and I'll post them here for everyone to see.

Happy Shopping - hopefully I'll have some pictures to post this weekend.

Albertson's Sale 1/7/09 to 1/13/09

This is going to be a pretty good sale!!! It will work very similar to the really good sale we had a few months ago. Remember the one that you had to group things together and spend $30 and get $15 back? Well this is one is going to work the same way. Pinching Your Pennies has a great blog on this sale if you want to check it out. The best part of this sale is going to be that Albertson's is allowing you to double some of your coupons. Here's an example of how it would work.

Deal scenario:
3 pampers x $10 each (rough estimate) = $30
3 manufacturers coupons ($1) doubled = $30 - $6 = $24
$15 catalina when you buy $30 = $24 - $15 = $9
$5 catalina when you buy $25 baby products = $9 - $5 = $4!!!!!

This sale is definately worth checking out - especially if you need baby items. Let me know if you have any questions.

Kmart is doubling coupons again (1/4/09 to 1/9/09)

Thanks to the Savvy Shopper Alert I got through email - I was pleasantly surprised to find out that we are the lucky ones, once again.

Check out this link to find the great deals and details on the sale. Let me know if you have any questions (callmestacy@yahoo.com).

Also, I'm still booking classes for January and February. Let me know if you're interested in saving some $$$$.

Spend $50 in P&G products - get $120 worth of P&G coupons back

This offer began on 12/14/08 and goes through 2/14/09. Click on this link and print it. Make sure to circle all your P&G products on all your receipts. For more information go to: www.pgeverydaysolutions.com/coupons-yearofsavings or call 1-800-979-8268.

It's always great to get some additional savings on products you use all the time. Just remember to hang onto your receipts.

Some Fun New Freebies

Chick-Fil-A chicken biscuit coupon

What to Expect When Your Expecting - free copy of book

Medium Dr. Pepper with any purchase at Arby's

Coupon for free bottle of Suave on 1/14/09 (this date only)

(Thanks Savvy Shopper!!!)

Total Cranberry Crunch sample

Snapfish - 50 free prints & 4x6 flip book - offer only available to new members

Join Friends of Krispy Kreme and receive a coupon for a free doughnut

6 Free Coupon booklets (Betty Crocker, Club Wild, Del Monte, Home Made Simple, P&G, Pillsbury)

Deepak Chopra 2009 calendar

It's always fun to get a few freebies from time to time. I hope you enjoy them. Happy New Year!!!!

A new blog background

I just love my friend Tracie. She is so cute and talented! She surprised me again with a new blog backround. Isn't it so cute? I love it. You should really check out her digital scrapbooking blog. She's done some really cute things and is always creating some new designs.

THANKS TRACIE!!!!! You're my "SNOW" Special friend.

Some New Year's Resolutions

It seems like I really didn't post much about shopping and saving throughout the month of December. I hardly remember the month - it was such a blur. Trying to shop with little ones and working around school, pre-school and nap times was definately challenging. I don't even think I wrote a serious grocery shopping list. I just ran to the store for the perishables. It's time to get back on track!

I have to say this because I was really impressed and somewhat surprised this month. Like I stated above, I didn't really go grocery shopping other than for the essentials. I found myself in one day needing more flour, sweetened condensed milk, pie filling, semi-sweet chocolate chips and vanilla. Guess where I found all these things? Yep - in my own pantry.

Coupon shopping really helps and it certainly saved me a ton this month!!! I didn't have to go grocery shopping, it has allowed me to stock up on the items my family uses most and best of all it saves me $$$$ (lots of it).

Within the next few weeks, many of us will get that awful white envelope from our credit card companies. Why not learn to save some money everytime you grocery shop?



You can contact me at callmestacy@yahoo.com. Invite some friends, co-workers, family or neighbors over for a free class. I will show you the easiest ways to save, use coupons and use the free Grocery Smarts website. One hour is certainly worth the $$$ you will save in the long run.

My neighbor gifts

I like to involve my kids in the neighbor gifts, so I went with easy this year. They helped me wrap the carmels and they also helped decorate the cookies.

I saw this idea in Family Fun magazine. They are cute Nutter Butter Reindeer. Notice how all the antlers are all different. The pretzels were the hardest part to try and get somewhat even.

I dipped Oreo's in semi sweet chocolate (chips) and then my kids helped to sprinkle candy cane, sugar and sprinkles on them. I also dipped Oreo's into almond bark and did the reverse with another set.

We also dipped fortune cookies (which I called my local Chinese restaurant and got a deal). We did these in both dark chocolate and almond bark.

After letting all the chocolate dry. We put the cookies in some cute Chinese take out boxes I found at Michaels. We added our carmels and some holiday candy to fill the holes. I hope my neighbors like them.

I hope you all have a Merry Christmas!

Yummy microwave carmels

Okay - this may not be a potluck recipe, but they are sure good. I lost my recipe so I went to the Pinching Your Pennies blog and ask for a good recipe. It never fails - someone always comes through for me. Here's the recipe and some do's and don'ts.

Carmels

1/2 c sweetened condensed milk

1/2 c butter (not margarine)

1/2 c sugar

1/2 c brown sugar

1/2 c karo syrup

Put all ingredients in a microwaveable bowl. Cook on high for 2 minutes and then stir (see recommendation on cooking time below). Repeat every 2 minutes for a total of 8 minutes. Pour into a well buttered/greased 8x8 pan and let cool for 3 hours. Cut and wrap in wax paper.

This was my second try. I had to reduce my cooking time to 2 min, 2 min, 1 min 15 sec, 1 min 15 sec. The first time I made them - I had a lovely square rock! I might advise you to try this cooking time first, instead of the one above. I also had to try a few to make sure they tasted okay and were soft.

I think I had about 80 pieces (that is, if I hadn't eaten a few to begin with). You can cut them any size.

These were so easy to make and best of all they are YUMMY!!!! If you're looking for a quick treat for a friend or neighbor or maybe just a treat to share, this is definatley a winner. This was also a great project for kids to help with The wrapping doesn't have to be perfect.

Cheesy Queso Dip (crockpot favorite)

This recipe came from my mother-in-law. My husband made sure I knew about this yummy recipe early on in our marriage. It was a tradition to make this every New Years Eve. It has since become a family favorite.

Cheesy Queso Dip

4 cans Campbell's Cheddar Cheese or Fiesta Nacho soup
1 16 oz bottle of Salsa/Picante sauce
2 lbs hamburger

Brown your hamburger until it's almost burnt. Drain the fat and pour into crockpot. Add the salsa, and all 4 cans of cheese soup and mix well. Occasionally stir as it warms up. Serve with corn chips.

Variations:
I've mixed the two flavors of cheese soups and it tastes great.
You can change the "heat" in your dip by making it with a hotter salsa.
You can change the consistency of your dip by adding more or less salsa.

It would also be great served over hot dogs and baked potatoes - be creative.

I love quick easy recipes that can be taken to just about any potluck. Enjoy the holidays and I hope you enjoy some of these recipes.

Hot wings (that aren't so hot)

Hands down this has been the most popular potluck dish I've ever made. It is so easy and a crowd pleaser.

Hot Wings

1, 28 oz bag of Tyson Buffalo style boneless wyngs/tenders/strips

1, 16 oz bottle of French or Catalina dressing

1 cup brown sugar

Cook the chicken according to the directions on the bag. Combine the dressing and brown sugar in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Pour sauce over chicken and serve.

Variations:

1 - Cut the chicken into bite size pieces - it makes it go a little farther

2 - Serve the sauce and chicken seperately, allowing people to dip their own chicken

3 - Serve with a salad and it tastes like the salads you get at Wingers.

4 - You can buy a larger bag at Sam's/Costco. I just add a little more dressing to coat all the pieces.

Warning: I've tried to serve this recipe in a crock pot before and it still tastes good, but the coating around the chicken gets kind of mushy.

If you try this recipe - I'd love to know what you think and what everyone else thought. I can't wait for the next excuse to make this tasty dish.

Treats and potluck dishes

It seems like this is the time of year where wonderful, yummy smells waft through the hallways of work, show up on your doorstep or just warm your oven in your own kitchen.

I hope you don't mind if I post some of my favorite treats this time of year.

I love this recipe! I used to work at a large hospital in Salt Lake and the chef there taught a few classes. This was one that I was lucky enough to attend (Thanks - chef Steve!)

Sweet and Spicy Nuts

3 cups pecans or walnut halves (I personally love almonds and use them)

1 cup sugar

1/3 cup water

1 TBSP cinnamon

1/2 tsp cloves

1/2 tsp salt

1 1/2 tsp vanilla

Instructions:

1 - Heat oven to 275 degrees. Grease cookie sheet. Spread nuts on prepared cookie sheet; toast for 10 minutes

2 - In medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, cinnamon, cloves and salt. Bring to a boil; continue cooking for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3 - Remove from heat; stir in vanilla and nuts. Using a slotted spoon, remove nuts to foil or waxed paper. Separate with a fork; let dry. Store in an airtight container in a cool dry place.

Yields: 4 1/2 cups

Not only do these smell wonderful - they taste delicious! For all you nut fans out there - this is definately a recipe to try. It's sure to win the hearts of many.

Kents in Roy is having an early morning sale on 12/13

Here's a pretty good sale for those of you in Weber/Davis county and anyone else who's willing to drive to Roy. It will go from 6am to noon. I didn't get the ad personally, but this is what I was able to gather as far as sale items go (Thanks PYP blog).

• 20 lb box boneless skinless chicken tenders and breasts $35.80 = to $1.79 a lb
• 1/2 gallon squares Farr's ice cream, 4 for $10.00
• 9 ct Maddox Turkey steaks $7.99
• bananas 2 lbs for 88 cents
• boneless beef top round rump roast $1.99 lb
• Don Julio tortilla chips 88 cents
• family pack boneless beef top round steaks or london broil $1.99
• lbkretsmar maple ham $2.99 lb, deli item I believe
• 2 lb western family medium cheddar $4.99
• 10 lb bag extra extra extra diet lean ground beef $1.99 lb
• dozen grade aa rogers medium eggs 99 cents
• 10 lb bag russet potatoes $1.88
• Grannys old fashion bread 4 for $5
• Norbest turkeys 79 cents a lb
• Clover club potato chips 2 for $3
• family pack boneless center cut pork loin chops or roast $1.89 lb
• Viva gallon chocolate milk 2 for $5

I've been to these sales before - you can count on almost every parking stall being full, lots of people, and some long lines, but some great savings! If you're willing to deal with these things you could get some pretty good deals. I've even been to these sales where Kents starts lowering prices (below their posted prices) while I'm shopping. I can't promise this will happen this go around, but they do put on a good sale.

Free Arbys, Mint Chocolate Swirl Shake

Mmmmmm......aren't mint and chocolate the essence of the season? Click on this link and then sign up with Arby's extras (upper right or bottom right corner) to receive a coupon for this yummy holiday shake. It make take a day or two for it to show up in your email box.

Everyday Food Storage

I have been watching this blog for quite sometime now. I love how simple the recipes are and how easy it is to eat and rotate my food storage. I just entered for a giveaway - watch Everyday Food Storage for your chances to win every Friday up until Christmas.

Beer Rebates spotted at the Syracuse Smith's

While I was at the Smith's today (Syracuse), I found for my first time some beer rebates. They were located on the first end cap, a Budweiser beer display. If you spend $150 at any Supermarket (can be one or multiple receipts, not sure if it has to be the same store or not), and you fill out the rebate (tearpad on display), Bud will send you a $20 Supermarket gift card. You are not required to buy beer to send in the rebate. The offer is good through 12/31/08.

Wow! If that's as easy as it is....I'm all over these Beer Rebates. Keep your eyes peeled for some good deals. I could always use free groceries!

Smith's Santa's Night Out

December 4th from 3pm to 11 pm (8 hours - one night only). So after I picked up my daughter from school we (all 4 of us, me and 3 kids) ran to Smith's to see if we could cash in on a few good deals. We didn't need much and it was hurry in, hurry out with 3 kids.



Tostito's Chips $1.77 (each)

Kroger Peanuts $.99 (each)

Kroger Semi Sweet chocolate chips $.50 (each,6 oz bags)

Kroger Salsa (not on the sale) $1.00 (each)

Smith's Rolls (not on the sale) $1.89

Smith's cinnamon bread (not on the sale) $1.29

Total $17.99, savings $15.43. Pretty good for 18 items

Don't forget, you can go to the Shortcuts website, sign up and enter your Smith's Fresh Value's Card number and load coupons onto your card. Not only will this save you at the register, you can also bring manufacturers's coupons with you for additional savings!

I hope you get some of the deals out there! Happy Shopping.

My trip to Kmart (double coupons

I've mis-placed my receipt, so I'm going from memory. I hope this helps someone. Some of the deals were better than others - no freebies this time.

Cereal was 4 for $10 and I had 4, $1.00 coupons - making each box $.50

Reynolds Wrap foil (75 feet) was $2.99, I had 4 coupons for $1.00 off - making each box $.99

Opti-Free was $8.xx and I had 4, $3.50 coupons (I'm not sure if they doubled or not - I'm still trying to find the reciept - my guess is that they didn't though).

Lysol (I can't remember the price, nor the coupons)

Reese's clusters (can't remember the price), but had 2, $1.00 coupons

Hershey's candy (can't remember the price - $7.xx??), but I had a coupon for $1.50 off with the purchase of three.

Kraft crackers (they were a bribe to get my 3 year old to behave for just a few more minutes).

I think my receipt came to a total of $80.xx and I saved $46.xx.

I promise that when I find the receipt I will post an update. Sorry this is so not-helpful. I went a few days ago and am just getting around to posting it.

I wanted to buy more, but I had my 2 boys with me and it made shopping a little difficult (especially when the youngest just had shots). Maybe I'll try again later this week.

$10 in coupons from Betty Crocker

All you need to do is sign up for their email newsletter and they will send you $10 in coupons. Check out this link for the savings.

Some things I got in the mail today

The first thing I got was a card from Toys "R" Us, announcing a private sale (not so private anymore) on 12/10/08 from 8pm to 11pm. My card had an additional card inside indicating that I could get 20% off one item. I couldn't find anything that said the Private Sale wasn't open to anyone. I'm not sure what they are doing for the private sale, but I guess everyone's invited now.

The second thing I got was from Kraft and their campaign called First Taste. I recieved two Jello singles (chocolate flavor). I've had these before and they are pretty convenient and a tasty snack. All you do is dump the contents of the bag into a bowl with 1/2 cup of milk and stir. Give it about 5 minutes to set up in the fridge and you have an instant snack. Click on First Taste to join and try out some of Krafts newest products.

Kmart is doubling coupons/Shopko's daily surprises

So, everything I'm reading is saying that Kmart is now currently doubling coupons from 11/30/08 to 12/6/08. Go through your coupons and shop, shop, shop!!!! There are some restrictions listed below - so go prepared. This sale really paid off for me last time!!! Even though Kmart doesn't sell a lot of food items, this is a great way to stock up on medicine, shampoo/conditioner, paper products, makeup etc.....

Super Double Manufacturer Coupons up to & Including $2 Value.

Amount of Credit from doubling a coupon cannot exceed the retail price of an item. No cash or in-store purchase credit will be awarded for any amount exceeding the retail price of the item. Limit 1 coupon for each item purchased. Only 1 coupon will be doubled per item. You may only purchase 4 of the same items using double coupons. Coupons do not apply to sales tax. Limit 75 coupons per customer per day. Internet coupons or copies of manufacturer instant coupons are not valid.

Offer excludes products prohibited by law, including but not limited to alcohol, tobacco, and prescription medication. Not valid on Non-merchandise, federal or state regulated items, prior purchases, Lands End. Sears merchandise run on Sears registers within Kmart and Kmart.com. In the event of a return, coupon savings may be deducted from refund. Sears Holdings(Kmart) reserves the right to modify or cancel this program at any time.

Available at participating Kmart and Super Kmart locations. (Thanks PYP, blog).

I also got an email from Shopko today announcing a daily surprise. You need to go to their website everyday to see the announced sale. If you don't have one of their "My Extra Saving's cards," stop by and apply for one (they are similar to Smith's or Albertson's cards). I believe you have to have one of these cards in order to get the deal at the advertised price.

The ups and downs of Black Friday

It is no secret - I love to shop and find a good deal. So I actually started shopping on Thursday at Kmart's Thanksgiving sale. I found the one big item I was after - I picked up the last one on the shelf - lucky me. I was very happy on Turkey Day.

Friday (Black Friday) was a bit more tricky. Even though I did not do as well, I did come away with some successes.

My youngest son was having trouble getting to sleep last night (night terrors) so between me and my husband we were up most of the night. I had set my alarm for 4:15 and I was going to hit Walmart first. Well I happened to roll over and look at my clock only to see it was 5:05 am. What, where am I, what's going on - how come my alarm didn't go off????? I raced out of bed threw on my clothes and ran out the door. I set my clock for PM not AM - DUUUUHHHHHH!!!!! Not so good. Well if any of you tried to shop at Walmart it was crazy!!!! I had great luck last year and totally failed at Walmart this year. I walked in - elbowed my way around and decided to leave.

I headed to Target next. When I got there they ushered me into line. I kept walking and walking and walking. Yes, the line went all the way around the store. I was in line by some nice people and we patiently waited for the line to move. I didn't think I would get anything considering my place in line. Surprise, Surprise - I got most of the stuff on my list. This definately put a smile on my face.

I then proceeded to Shopko. I didn't really find a lot of stuff there, but I found a few movies and some stocking stuffers. Because my birthday was this month, Shopko sent me a birthday discount, so I got an additional 10% off my purchase. Yea!!!!! This also made me happy.

I was getting really hungry about this time and decided to go through the Krispy Kreme drive through. When I got to the window the lady handed me my donuts and chocolate milk and would not let me pay for them. Wow!!!! Could this really be???? My day was certainly improving.

I decided to try the mall and went into JC Penney and found a bunch of clothes for the family. I then went to Lane Bryant to check out their selection and to spend my gift certificate I got for my birthday. It was fun - I got some Spanx (have wanted to try them for some time) and some pants.

I rounded out the day with a long afternoon nap. A well deserved nap....I had a good day even without Walmart!

One thing I did notice at most stores is the nice help of so many of the employees. Not only did most of the stores have a full staff checking people out, they also had employees throughout the store helping to locate items, pull things off of upper shelves, shagging carts etc... And to that I was very thankful.

So did any of you go shopping on Black Friday? Anyone want to share their successes or failures? You can celebrate or vent if you'd like.

Did you know that Grocery Smarts is in Vegas too?

We're branching out.... If any of you are in the Vegas area - you're in luck. We are now able to teach classes in your area. Check out this video link to a news station in Vegas that did a spotlight on Grocery Smarts. If this kind of savings interests you and you want to schedule a class, contact me at callmestacy@yahoo.com and I can arrange a free class for you. And yes, you really do save that much on your shopping trips!!! Check out some of my older blogs to see.

I'm currently booking for January - these dates fill up fast, so I hope to hear from you soon.

More things I'm thankful for

This list a bit more sillier (is that a word????) than the last - but still I'm greatful!

1- I'm thankful for Black Friday. I am not one of those women who will be racing down the aisle to beat everyone else, nor will I be involved in any crash up derby with my cart. I'm there for a few items and off to the next sale. Wahoo!!!! The anticipation and excitement is building.

2 - I'm thankful that I got assigned 2 pies and a Jello salad this Thanksgiving. Boy, am I glad that someone at Sam's club knows how to make pies - because this is not one of my best talents. I'm just winging it with the Jello salad (can you really ruin one of these???)

3 - I'm glad that we're only traveling an hour each direction for Thanksgiving, rather than the normal 2 1/2 hrs each way.

4 - I'm thankful that my husband has a few days off. Hopefully we'll something fun as a family this weekend.

5 - I'm thankful for Redbox and that the rentals are only $1.00. Gotta love vegging and watching a good movie from time to time.

6 - I love to drive around on Thanksgiving night or the night after and see everyone's handiwork at putting up lights. It's fun to see how your neighborhood transforms overnight.

7 - I'm thankful that my sister finally said yes, to going with me on Black Friday! She loves her sleep.

8 - I'm greatful to have the time to read my friends and family's blogs. They are so fun and it's a great way to keep up with everyone's lives.

9 - I'm greatful for Grocery Smarts and how easy it is to find my grocery list and gather my coupons.

10 - Lastly, I'm greatful for Christmas music. I have to admit, I've been listening to it since the first part of November.

What are you thankful for????

Dogwood End of Season Sale

You can go to Dogwood's website for more information. They only sell boys clothes (which are really fun). They are located at 3855 South 500 West Suite F. Salt Lake City, UT 84115.

Deseret Book Friends and Family

Check out the Light Refreshments Served blog (A little something for my friends - is the blog title) for a coupon good through 11/30/08. The coupons are good for online purchases as well.

My latest shopping trip

It seems like forever since I've posted a shopping trip. What's wrong with me???? So I went to Smiths yesterday and did pretty well. I had a bunch of coupons and an additional coupon for $10 off my next shopping trip from Smiths for buying so many baby products over time.

Here's what I ended up with:

5 (large boxes) Cinnamon Toast crunch

4 (large boxes) Honey Nut Cherrios

2 boxes Wheat Thins

1 box Triscuits

2 boxes of Oven bags

5 jars Gerber baby food

8 (large cans) Dole Mandarin Oranges

1 bag of Kroger hashbrowns

1 bunch of bananas

1 bag of Dole salad mix

1 bag of Sweets candy (I love chocolate covered cinnamon bears)

1 box of Reynolds Parchment

1 Hen turkey (we're going away for Thanksgiving so we don't get any leftovers - I'll cook this bird at a later date)

There was also some chicken and potato wedges (my dinner) that aren't pictured

Total I spent $54.97 and saved $56.01. I purchased 38 items and spent on average $1.45 per item. Smiths is running a promotion that if you spend $25 in their store you can purchase a hen (private selection) turkey for $6, a tom (private selection) for $8 and a Butterball tom for $12. I paid $6 for my turkey - this is definately something to be thankful for.

Wow - what a cute blog - if I do say so myself

Tracie - one of my bestest friends, surprised me today with the cutest blog paper. I love it - it's so fun and festive and just in time for Christmas. Anyone wanting to get into some fun digi scrapping needs to check out her blog at this link. She is so talented! Thanks Tracie!!!!

And What to my Wondering Eyes Should Appear...

But a newly decorated blog, just in time for the Christmas season. Merry Christmas Stacy! I hope you like it!

Free Home Made Simple Procter & Gamble coupon book

Follow this link to sign up. They have products like Cascade, Dawn, Swiffer etc.... Savings worth $27.

I am thankful for.....

Since this is the time of year we ought to be thankful - I thought I'd post a few things that make me thankful and put a smile on my face.

1 - I think my biggest smile this year comes from finally getting my 3 year old son potty trained (during the day at least). Oh, those agonizing months of trying and trying and trying :(

2 - I am truly thankful for my full food storage and even more thankful as me and my huband loaded several boxes full to take to the food shelter a few days ago.

3 - This list wouldn't be complete if I wasn't thankful for sales and coupons!!!!

4 - I am thankful that I feel rich - not so much from money (we live frugally), but rich with the love of my family (this is very fulfilling).

5 - It's wonderful to be a stay at home mom (SAHM) and I couldn't do it without a wonderful, loving and supporting husband out there working to keep me here.

6 - I love that I live in a free country where I have privileges that others don't.

7 - I am thankful for all those men and women that sacrifice daily for my freedoms.

8 - I love, love, love that the price of gas is starting to go down! Now let's hope to see food prices do the same thing.

9 - I smile the first time it snows enough that we have to shovel. Can't wait for that day this year.

10 - I am thankful for this time of year. I love the food, family, friends, my savior and the magic this season brings.

These are just a few of the things I'm thankful for. If you'd like to add to the list - I would love to hear from you. I'll probably post some more in the coming days.

Warning on Christmas gift cards

I've received this email several times and am not sure how to confirm this information other than to offer a fair warning to anyone looking to purchase gift cards as Christmas gifts this year.

As much as I love to give and get gift cards, I'm a little reluctant to do much of that this year. Considering our economic status, many well known stores are having to close their doors or scale back just to survive.

This is a list that I received through an email. Good luck and if you currently have any of these cards it may be worth using them now rather than waiting.....

Mervyns should close their doors at the end of the year.

Linens & Things which is under liquidation and closing all stores by year end.

Ann Taylor closing 117 stores nationwide A company spokeswoman said The company hasn't revealed which stores will be shuttered.. It will let the Stores that will close this fiscal year know over the next month.

Eddie Bauer to close more stores. Eddie Bauer has already Closed 27 shops in the first quarter and plans to close up To two more outlet stores by the end of the year.

Cache closing stores. Women's retailer Cache announced that it is closing 20 to 23 stores This year.

Lane Bryant, Fashion Bug, Catherines closing 150 stores nationwide The owner Of retailers Lane Bry ant , Fashion Bug , Catherines Plus Sizes will close About 150 underperforming stores this year. The company hasn't Provided a list of specific store closures and can't say when it will offer That info, spokeswoman Brooke Perry said today.

Talbots, J. Jill closing stores. About a month ago, Talbots announced that it will be shuttering all 78 of its kids and men's stores. Now the company says it will close Another 22 underperforming stores. The 22 stores will be a mix of Talbots women's and J. Jill , another chain it owns. The closures will occur this Fiscal year, according to a company press release.

Gap Inc. Closing 85 stores. In addition to its namesake chain, Gap also owns Old Navy and Banana Republic. The company said the closures - all planned For fiscal 2008 - will be weighted toward the Gap brand.

Foot Locker to close 140 stores. In the company press release and during its Conference call with analysts today, it did not specify where the future store Closures - all planned in fiscal 2008 - will be. The company could not be Immediately reached for comment.

Wickes Furniture is going out of busines s and closing all of its stores. Wickes, a 37-year-old retailer that targets middle-income customers, filed for bankruptcy Protection last month.

Goodbye Levitz / BOMBAY - closed already. The furniture retailer, which is going out Of business. Levitz first announced it was going out of business and closing all 76 of Its stores in December. The retailer dates back to 1910 when Richard Levitz opened his First furniture store in Lebanon , PA. In the 1960s, the warehouse/showroom concept brought Levitz to The forefront of the furniture industry. The local Levitz closures will follow the shutdown of Bombay .


Zales, Piercing Pagoda closing stores. The owner of Zales and Piercing Pagoda previously Said it plans to close 82 stores by July 31. Today, it announced that it is closing Another 23 underperforming stores. The company said it's not providing a list of specific Store closures. Of the 105 locations planned for closure, 50 are kiosks and 55 are Stores.

Disney Store owner has the right to close 98 stores The Walt Disney Company Announced it acquired about 220 Disney Stores from subsidiaries of The Children's Place Retail Stores. The exact number of stores acquired Will depend on negotiations with landlords. Those subsidiaries of Children's Place filed for bankruptcy protection in late March. Walt Disney In the news release said it has also obtained the right to close about 98 Disney Stores in the U.S. . The press release didn't list those stores.

Home Depot store closings (E. Brunswick, Rt 18 just put up their closing sign) ATLANTA - Nearly 7+ months after its chief executive said there were no plans To cut the number of its core retail stores, The Home Depot Inc. announced Thursday that it is shuttering 15 of them amid a slumping U.S. economy and Housing market. The move will affect 1,300 employees. It is the first time The world's largest home improvement store chain has ever closed a flagship Store for performance reasons. Its shares rose almost 5 percent. The Atlanta-based company said the underperforming U.S. stores Being closed represent less than 1 percent of its existing stores. They Will be shuttered within the next two months.

CompUSA (CLOSED) clarifies details on store Closings Any extended warranties purchased for products through CompUSA will be honored by a third-party provider, Assurant Solutions. Gift cards, rain checks, and rebates purchased prior to December 12 can be Redeemed at any time during the final sale. For those who have a gadget Currently in for service with CompUSA, the repair will be completed and the gadget will be returned to owners.

Macy's - 9 stores

Movie Gallery and Hollywood Video- 160 stores as part of reorganization plan to exit bankruptcy. The video rental company plans to close 400 of 3,500 Movie Gallery and Hollywood Video stores in addition to the 520 locations the video rental chain closed last fall.
UPDATE: Since I am not familiar with these stores, please take note of the comments left.

Sprint Nextel - 125 retail locations New Sprint Nextel CEO Dan Hesse appears to have inherited a company bleeding subscribers by the thousands, and will now officially be dropping the ax on 4,000 employees and 125 retail locations. Amid the loss of 639,000 postpaid customers in the fourth quarter, Sprint will be cutting a total of 6.7% of its work force (following the 5,000 layoffs last year) and 8% of company-owned brick-and-mortar stores, while remaining mute on other rumors that it will consolidate its headqu arters in Kansas . Sprint Nextel shares are down $2.89, or nearly 25%, at the time of this writing.

J. C. Penney, Lowe's and Office Depot are scaling back

Ethan Allen Interiors: The company announced plans to close 12 of 300+stores in an effort to cut costs.

Wilsons the Leather Experts - 158 stores

Pacific Sunwear will close its 154 Demo stores after a review of strategic alternatives for the urban-apparel brand. Seventy-four & nbsp; underperforming Demo stores closed last May.
Sharper Image: The company recently filed for bankruptcy protection and announced that 90 of its 184 stores are closing. The retailer will still operate 94 stores to pay off debts, but 90 of these stores have performed poorly and also may close.

KB Toys posted a list of 356 stores that it is closing around the United States as part of its bankruptcy reorganization. To see the list of store closings, go to the KB Toys Information web site, and click on Press Information

Dillard's to Close More Stores. Dillard's Inc. said it will continue to focus on closing under-performing stores, reducing expenses and improving its merchandise in 2008. At the company's annual shareholder meeting, CEO William Dillard II said the company will close another six underperforming stores this year.

Grocery ABC's

I find it rather interesting as I pass a fellow shopper in the store to peer into their cart to see what they're buying. Doesn't it always make you wonder why they have some of the things they do in there? Hmmm...maybe those things are part of a really good recipe or I question - are they really going to eat 3, 1/2 gallons of ice cream????

Anywho.... I thought it would be fun to play a little Grocery Store ABC game. These are the things I frequent the store for in ABC form. Some of them were pretty tricky and some of them, I could have written a book on. So here goes>>>>

Apples, Anti-persperiant

Broccoli, bananas, bandaids, butter

Cereal, chicken, chicken nuggets, Coke, Campbell's soup, chips, candy, cream cheese, cheese

Detergent

Eggs

Fruit snacks, fruit

Grandma Sycamore bread, gum, grapes, goldfish

Huggies, hashbrowns

Instant Breakfast

Juice (oj)

Ketchup

Liquid Soap, lightbulbs

Mt. Dew, milk, M&M's

Newspapers (always looking for a few extra coupons!)

Olive oil, Oxy Clean

Popsicles, potatoes, pasta, paper towels

Quaker Oats

Ranch dressing, Ramen Noodles

Skippy peanut butter, scrubbing bubbles, sunflower seeds, Snuggle fabric softner

Tuna, toilet paper, tomatoes

U ????????

Vanilla, veggies

Water (bottled), wipes

X ????????

Yogurt

Ziploc baggies


I'm sure there are many that I missed, but you get the jist. So if you're game and want to play along - come up with the most frequent things you go to the store for. Tag! You're it....