Spectacular Savings

Coupon Preview: 1/29

2012-01-27T13:51:00.000-05:00

Go here to see a preview of the coupons that will be in the paper this Sunday, January 29. It looks like there will be 3 inserts this week: P&G, Smartsource and RedPlum.

Remember that the coupons and their values vary by region. Even though I live in Kalamazoo, I buy the Grand Rapids Press or the Detroit Free Press. There is a HUGE difference between the two papers! Take a peek at the inserts and see what you think!

Also, be sure to check your paper and make sure that the inserts are in there before you buy it!

*Local Readers: I have been buying the Grand Rapids Press for the last few months now. It seems that most weeks, the Detroit Free Press at my local stores does not contain all of the inserts (or any sometimes). From time to time the GR Press will be missing a high value coupon but it has been much more consistent!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support.

$1/1 Pretzel M&Ms Coupon!

2012-01-27T10:43:00.000-05:00

Yum, yum! Coupons.com has a $1/1 Pretzel M&Ms coupon available. These will be on sale at Meijer for $2.50 starting this Sunday (1/29)! There are lots of other great coupons available as well! The month is about to come to an end so print them while you can!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support.

Meijer Ad Preview: 1/29 - 2/4

2012-01-27T10:34:00.000-05:00

Want to know what will be on sale next week at Meijer? Check out the ad preview for 1/29 -2/4!! Here are a few things I see from a quick glance:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast
Sale: $1.77/lb

Kraft Singles
Sale: 50% off (I think the regular price is $3 - $3.50)
MQ: $.55/2 Kraft Cheese from 1/22 SS
Total - varies
**So excited to get a deal on Kraft Singles - it has been awhile!

Dean's Dip
Sale: $.99
MQ: $1/2 Dean's Dip from 1/15 SS
Total: $.49 each

Chi-Chi's Salsa
Sale: $.99
MQ: $1/2 Chi-Chi's Salsa from 1/8 SS
Total: $.49 each
**This coupon was regional and was not in the Grand Rapids Press. I just purchased some on Ebay!

Ortega Products
Sale: 25% off
MQ: $.50/2 Ortega from 1/15 SS
MBQ: $1/4 Ortega Meijer printable.
Total: varies - should make for some cheap Ortega products!!

McCormick Chili, Spaghetti or Mexican Dry Seasoning Mix
Sale: $.50
MBQ: $1/8 McCormick Meijer printable.
Total: $.38 each!!

Looks like the start of another great week at Meijer!!

DIY Draft Blocker

2012-01-26T19:26:00.000-05:00

My very first Once-a-Month Project has been completed......a draft blocker for our front door (the door that has a big enough gap to see light shine through just a little bit). I wish I could take all of the credit for it but my mom came over to help me and break out my brand new (and first) sewing machine!

Interested in making your own? It is amazingly simple to do - a great project to do if you are just learning to sew!

What I used:
*Poly-Fil - Just $2.99 at Hobby Lobby. This item doesn't go on sale so use your 40% coupon!!
*Fabric - I bought 1.5 yards and have made several (sliding glass doors and some windows). If you are just making one, half a yard would be plenty! I found this great fabric on clearance for just $2/yard at Hobby Lobby. I like it because it is a little thicker and the dark color with a print shouldn't look as dirty as most fabrics.
*Thread - I just used black because that's what I had.
*Sewing Machine

What to do:
1)Measure your door to see how long you will need it to be. Be sure to give yourself a few extra inches for the seam and you will probably want it to extend a bit beyond the door. The fabric I purchased was 45 inches and that was perfect.
2)Decide how wide you are going to want it and cut the fabric. We originally went with 12 inches but it didn't lay very well against the door so we made another one at 16 inches.

This is the first one we made. Air was still getting out at the top. It is now wedged in the sliding glass door.

3)Fold the fabric in half hot dog style (aka the long way) and inside out. Put a few pins in it to keep it together.

4)Sew along the short edge and then the long edge.

5)Turn it inside out so that the fabric is now on the outside and you have an empty tube of fabric (the only side that should be open is the other short side).

6)Fill with the Poly-Fil or another filling (rice, beans, etc). Use some sort of long dowel tool to push it down in. We used what we had available to us - the girls' plastic batons.

7)Once it is filled, sew the last side together. We were able to sew it with the machine but you might need to hand sew it.

And that's it. Keep in mind that these instructions are from a person that barely sews. It makes sense to me when I read it but be sure to visualize it first so that it makes sene to you! And if there is something that I need to add to make it more clear, please let me know!!

January Swagbucks Challenge.....How Are You Doing?

2012-01-26T09:49:00.000-05:00

We are nearing the end of January! How have you been doing with the January Swagbucks Challenge: answering the daily polls every day? As you can see, I've missed just two days. Not too bad, right! It really has become a habit for me. The first thing I do when I get on the computer is the Daily Poll on Swagbucks. And that was my goal, to make it a habit! Something simple but it helps me to get closer to those Amazon gift cards!

If you haven't signed up, sign up now! It's such an easy way to earn gift cards you can use!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support.

Reminder: Old Navy Groupon Expires 1/28

2012-01-25T19:20:00.002-05:00

Just a friendly reminder that if you purchased the Old Navy Groupon right before Christmas, it expires on Saturday, January 28!! Go out and grab some deals (if you haven't already)!

Meijer: Suave Professionals for $.50!!

2012-01-25T14:18:00.000-05:00

The list of great Meijer deals just keeps on growing!! Here's another deal to add to it:

Buy (3) Suave Professionals Shampoo or Conditioner @ $1.50 each = $4.50
Use $1/2 Suave Professionals from
Clip $2/3 Suave mPerks coupon.
Total: $1.50 or $.50 each!!!

I did not see this price in the ad and have not yet confirmed it. Hoping that this is a price we'll all be able to find at the store!!

Be sure to check out more deals at Meijer as well as this week's matchups!! Lots of great deals to be had!

(Thanks, Meijer Madness!)

Where's the Hormel Pepperoni??

2012-01-24T22:53:00.000-05:00

Attention Meijer Shoppers......are you looking for the Hormel Pepperoni that is on sale this week? You are not alone. Over the summer when it was on sale, I talked to a manager (you know, the ones in the blue shirts) and they called several different departements looking for it and couldn't find it. They even gave me a $5 gift card because they weren't able to find it!

Well, I've finally figured it out.........It's not with the rest of the Hormel Pepperoni products like you would expect. You will find it in the deli area....somewhere in the deli area. For the past three sales it has been in three different places. But always in the deli areas in one of those black islands. Look carefully because sometimes its easy to miss (I almost missed it today) but it's there.....somewhere! At least this is where I have found it at my local Meijer (W.Main and 9th), If you still can't find it, ask someone from the deli department - they would be your best bet!

If you were able to find it at your store, where did you find it at?

DIY Reusable Dryer Sheets

2012-01-24T19:20:00.000-05:00

Over the summer, I was in search of an easy way to make reusable dryer sheets and found a great tutorial from Live Renewed. Simple and free from all of the chemicals of store bought, regular dryer sheets. I do not make my own fabric softener (something that I may do once my bottle is gone) but I have been using these reusable dryer sheets since mid-summer and have no complaints.

What You Need:
*Fabric Softener - I purchased Ecover Dishwashing Liquid based on the recommendation of Emily from Live Renewed but I've also read that Seventh Generation Fabric Softener Free & Clear works fine as well. I purchased a 32 oz bottle and I still have more than half a bottle left and just made a batch. This will easily last me a year.
*Flannel Fabric - I purchased flannel baby blankets from a garage sale for $.25 each.
*Pinking Shears - These are expensive and if you won't use them on a regular basis, just borrow them. That's what I did - thanks, Grandma!
*Empty baby wipes container - If you don't have any, ask a friend with a baby to save one for you. Most likely, they have plenty!

What You Need to Do:
*Cut the flannel into strips. Use the pinking shears so the edges don't fray.
*Put the flannel strips into the baby wipes container. Fill it to the top but don't overfill. If you fill it so full that you have to smoosh it down, the fabric softener may not soak in to all of the sheets.
*Mix 1/4 cup of the fabric softener with 3/4 cup of warm/hot water. I have an old measuring cup specifically for making these so I pour the fabric softener in first and then add the warm water until it reaches the 1 cup line. I use a plastic fork to mix.
*Pour the fabric softener/water mix over the flannel sheets and give it an hour or two to soak in.

Using the Sheets:
Throw them in with your wet clothes just like you normally do! When you get to the bottom of the dryer sheets, you may notice that the sheets aren't very wet. That's fine - it still have the fabric softener on it and will work just fine. If you live in a dry area (like Michigan in the winter), you may need to use more than one dryer sheet. I've always had to do this in the winter with my regular dryer sheets so this really is no different for me.

The hardest part is cutting the strips of flannel but you only have to do that once!

Pampers Gifts to Grow 5 Point Code

2012-01-24T13:45:00.000-05:00

Head on over to Pampers Gifts to Grow and enter code TWIT9PGYETBPA12 to get 5 points!

No kiddos in diapers? You might still want to consider joining! Most of the codes that I have used are public codes, available to everyone!

(Thanks, Give Me Neither!)

This post contains an affliliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

My Meijer and Hardings Trip: 1/23

2012-01-24T13:31:00.000-05:00

Meijer

Total OOP: $32.94

Savings: $50.84

The Good:
*FREE Lipton Green Tea!!! If only, we drank tea.......Anyways, it looks like the $1/1 printable coupon is gone but there is a $.75/1 printable coupon available! (Thanks, Sarah's Deals!)

*3lb bag of sweet potatoes were included in the 10/$10 sale! I like to puree these and throw them into different recipes - add a little veggies without the rest of the family knowing!!

*Even though I didn't have the $2/$2, I was able to use some great mPerks coupons!!

*FREE UP2U Mentos Gum - it was included in the 10/$10 sale!!

*Had no problem with the Hormel Pepperoni deal - the mPerks coupon and the manufacturer's coupon went through without a problem!!

The Bad:
*I'm making a bunch of freezer meals this week and didn't plan ahead as well as I should have. Fortunately I was able to pick up most of what I needed at a good deal.

Check out the matchups and the deals that have popped up throughout the week for all of the details on these sales!!

Hardings

Total OOP: $13ish

Sorry, don't know what it was exactly - can't find my receipt!

There are a few deals to be had at Hardings. Yay for $1/lb grapes! We all love grapes so this is always a winner! And the rest is for some meals I'm making this week!

Check out the matchups for the best deals at Hardings this week!

My Once a Month Project List.....Work In Progress

2012-01-23T22:22:00.001-05:00

Recipes, projects, organization, healthy eating.....January hits and we want to change it all! But we can't do it all at once. To avoid being frustrated and just giving up, I've made a Once a Month Project List. Similar to the Once a Month "Real" Food list - except this one isn't quite done yet.

January: Draft Blocker - I broke out my new sewing machine for this! And, yep, it's already done and I will share the results this week!
Washer Necklace - I really wanted one but didn't want to spend the money so I made one! I'm almost finished with it!

February: Chore Charts - The girls are excited about this one - crazy girls!

March: Household Binder - I'm really excited about this one! I love lists, binders, and organization but just haven't taken the time to put one together. I'm hoping you guys will consider joining me on this one! I plan to share what I'm putting into it and great resources I've found!

April: Framed Menu - I've seen about a million of these on Pinterest. I want to make some sort of dry erase or chalkboard menu to put up in my kitchen.

May: Pillowcase Dresses for the Girls - Or a variation of one! We'll see how well I'm sewing at this point. I may be getting lots of help from my mom on this one!

June:

July:

August: Kid Artwork/Schoolwork Display - The fridge is getting crowded! I figure right before school starts again would be a great time to get this made!

September:

October: Mini Bean Bags - I'm making these for the girls for Christmas!

November:

December:

And that's it so far! Obviously room for more ideas! As I come across things that I want to create, I will add it to the list. And, of course, I will share my projects and the results with you! Feel free to share your creations with me as well!

Hobby Lobby: 40 Percent Off Coupon + Great Deals!!

2012-01-23T18:46:00.001-05:00

Yay....it looks like we're getting the 40% off one regular price item coupon for at least one more week! At some point these will start being available every other week so every Sunday, I hold my breath as I look for the ad in the paper!

Well, I'm not overly impressed with this week's ad. There are some great deals but seems like there are more and more 30% off sales. I just can't do 30% off when I know I can use my coupon and get 40% off (unless it's something small). Here are my favorites:

*Lamps, Clocks, Mirrors and more......50% off - This is a great sale if you are redecorating or need a few odds and ends for the house!
*Tulle for $.77/yd - Want to try making your own tutu? This would be a great week to grab the tulle!
*Jewelry - This is probably the best section of the sale ad if you like to make your own jewelry. Lots of great jewelry items for 50% off!

Meijer: FREE Lipton Tea!!

2012-01-23T13:06:00.000-05:00

Add another great deal to your Meijer list this week - FREE Lipton Tea!! Here's how.....

Buy (2) Lipton Green Tea 20 ct Bags @ $2.33 each (on price drop)
Use (2) $1/1 Lipton Green Tea or Pyramid Tea Bags printables.
Use the $3/2 Lipton Tea Meijer Coupon (limit 1) - this can be found in this week's ad or as an mPerks coupon.
Total: 2 for FREE!

Be sure to check out all of the deals popping up as well as this week's matchups!

(Thanks, Saving Addiction!)
This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

mPerks: Did You Get a $2/$2 Coupon?

2012-01-23T12:48:00.000-05:00

Were you one of the lucky ones? Did you find a $2/$2 mPerks coupon in your account? Or maybe even a $5/$5 coupon! Check your account and see what you find! Unfortunately, my husband and I were not so lucky this time! I hope you are!

Reminder: Get Your Daily Swagbucks!!

2012-01-23T11:49:00.000-05:00

Don't forget about those Daily Swagbuck opportunities! Check the No Obligation Special Offers, or NOSO, section and get your Swagbucks for the day! And, when you're done, head over to the Daily Polls section and get an additional Swagbuck! It may be small but if you do them every day, they add up!!

Not sure what Swagbucks is? To find out what it is and how to increase your Swagbucks, check out the Swagbucks 101 series! And if you are interested in signing up, go here!

This post contains an affliliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

Menu Planning Monday

2012-01-23T09:03:00.000-05:00

Photo credit: Kalyn's Kitchen

It has been awhile since I've done a Menu Plan Monday post but I'm hoping that this regular post will not only help keep me accountable but it will help to encourage you and give you ideas. I would love it if you would share your menu plan with us (in the comments section) each week as well!

~~Every~~ Most Sunday nights, my husband and I sit down and go over our week. We look at who's going to be where, what things we need to get done and what we will be eating for the week. Since my husband is the one that is home for dinner every night, he gets to be part of this plan. He says that planning our menu for the week is the most useful thing that he doesn't like doing. He doesn't really want to do it on Sunday nights but finds himself very thankful during the week!

Sunday: Dinner with my husband's parents - roast, mashed potatoes, and more - yum, yum, yum!!

Monday: Breakfast for Dinner - Pancakes and Eggs
**We have LOTS of eggs from last week's sale!!

Tuesday: Beef and Cheese Burritos.
**I will be doing a little freezer cooking/cooking ahead on Tuesday night as well - Beef and Cheese Burritos (I always make extras when I make this), Cheesy Chicken Bundles and Taco Soup.

Wednesday: Taco Soup.

Thursday: Cheesy Chicken Bundles.
**Chicken and Cheese are both on sale at Meijer this week!

Friday: Sandwiches - It's ok to have a simple lunch for dinner type meal. Probably grilled cheese

Saturday: Turkey and Mashed Potatoes
**I will be making my very first turkey!! We bought a turkey at Thanksgiving and plan to cook it and fill the freezer with a bunch of meals - Turkey Enchiladas, Turkey Pot Pie, Turkey Noodle Casserole, Turkey Chili.....any other ideas for me?

So, how about you? What are you having this week? Let's keep each other accountable and maybe share some recipes too!!

Hardings Matchups: 1/22 - 1/28

2012-01-22T23:44:00.002-05:00

These are not complete matchups so be sure to check your local ad before you head to Hardings to see if there are any other sales that you might want to take advantage of. I will include the very best deals that I find for the week.

All-Beef Hamburger
Sale: $2.69/lb
*Not a great price but it's been awhile since I've seen $1.99/lb

General Mills Cereal
Includes Cheerios, Fruity Cheerios, Trix, Total Whole Grain, Cocoa Puffs
Sale: $1.99
MQ: $1/2 Cheerios Cereal printable or from 1/22 SS
$1.10/2 Cheerios Cereal (all varieties) printable.
Total: as low as $1.44 each

Harding's 10/$10 Sale: Mix and Match - Keep in mind that you do not need to buy 10 in order to get the sale price.
*Spartan Chicken Drumsticks or Thighs, family pack ($1/lb)
*Red Seedless Grapes ($1/lb)
*Harding's Large Grade A Eggs (in case you didn't get enough at Meijer last week)
*Spartan Frozen Vegetables
*Roma Tomatoes ($1/lb)
*Baby Cut Carrots
*Northwest Pears ($1/lb)

*Progresso Vegetable Classics Soup
MQ: $1/4 Progresso from 12/11 SS or 1/8 GM
Total: $.75 each

*Michelina's Lean Gourmet or Authentico
MQ: $1/5 Michelina's printable, printable or printable.
Total: $.80 each

*Prairie Farms Sour Cream or Dips
*Spartan Croutons or Bread Crumbs
*Spartan Flour Tortillas or English Muffins.

*Dawn Liquid Dish Detergent
MQ: $.25/1 Dawn from 1/1 P&G
Total: $.75

Be sure to check the ad to see all of the deals included in the 10/$10 sale this week!

Will you be heading to Hardings this week? What's on your list?

The Best of the Drugstores......1/22 - 1/28

2012-01-22T23:24:00.000-05:00

Here are the best deals at Rite Aid, thanks to Centsable Momma!

Mentos Tube Gum (15 ct.) or Mentos UP2U Gum (14 ct.), 3/$3
Get $1 +UP Reward wyb 3 (Limit 4)
MQ: $1/1 Up2U Pack from 1/01 SS
Total: Better than FREE after coupons and +UP Reward!

All KY Products, B1G1 50% OFF (psa $5.39)
Get $4 +UP Reward wyb 2 (Limit 2)
MQ: $3/1 K-Y Brand Product printable
$2/1 K-Y Brand Products printable
$3/1 K-Y Product from 1/08 SS
$2/1 K-Y Product from 12/04 SS
$2/1 K-Y Product from ALL YOU Dec '11
**Qualifies for $20 +UP Reward wyb $100 Resolution Reward products (Limit 1)

Deal Scenario:
Buy (2) KY Products, $5.39 and $2.70
Get $4 +UP Reward wyb 2 (Limit 2)
Use (2) $3/1 K-Y Product
Total: Better than FREE after coupons and +UP Reward!

Finesse Shampoo, Conditioner or Stylers (7 to 15 oz.), 2/$6

Get $3 +UP Reward wyb 2 (Limit 2)
$1/1 Finesse Product, exp. 1/30/12 (SS 10/16/11)
Total: $0.50 ea. after coupons and +UP Reward!

For more deals at Rite Aid, check out Centsable Momma!

Here are the best deals at Walgreens, thanks to Coupon Teacher!

Triaminic Products
Sale: 2/$10
Get $5 RR
MQ: $3/1 Triaminic Fever Reducer Pain Reliever Product from 12/04/SS
        $1/1 Triaminic Fever Reducer Pain Reliever Product from 1/22 SS
        $3/2 Triaminic Product, from 12/04 SS
        $3/2 Triaminic Product printable
Total: as low as FREE after coupons and RR!

Ultimate Flurry Protein Bar
Sale: $1.99
Get $1.99 RR
Total: FREE after RR!

Keebler Cookies or Crackers, Cheez-it, or Kelloggs Special K Cracker Crisps
Sale: $2.50
Wags Q: $2/2 Keebler Cookies or Crackers, Cheez-it, or Kelloggs Special K Cracker Crisps from January Walgreens coupon booklet
MQ: $1/2 Keebler Crackers from 12/11 RP
Total: $1.00 each after coupon!

For more deals at Walgreens, check out Coupon Teacher!

Meijer Matchups: 1/22 - 1/28

2012-01-21T00:34:00.000-05:00

Before you head to Meijer, make sure you read the ins and outs of Meijer shopping, and print out the Meijer Mealbox coupons you'll need. And don't forget to "clip" your mPerks coupons!!

*Be sure to print your Meijer Mealbox coupons today because Meijer is known for pulling coupons midweek, before their expiration date!!*

Abbreviations:
*MQ: Manufacturer's Coupon
*MBQ: Meijer Mealbox Coupons
*OYNO: On Your Next Order

Be sure to check out the most recent deals and updates at Meijer this week before you head to the store!

Here are the best deals at Meijer this week based on the Kalamazoo area ad:

10/$10.....11th FREE Sale: Buy 10 items included in the sale (for $1 each) and get the 11th FREE! Mix and match. You do not need to get 10 in order to get the sale price. Also, if you are using coupons, keep in mind that your 11th item needs to be an item that you are not using a coupon for.

Chex Mix - Sunday Only Deal.
MQ: $.50/2 Chex Mix printable or from 12/11 SS or 1/8 GM
Total: $.75 each
Catalina Deal: Buy 3 Chex Mix 4.5oz+, Get a $1 custom coupon valid on your next order. Buy 4, get a $2 OYNO. Buy 5+ get a $3 OYNO (SUNDAY ONLY)
Final Cost: as low as $.20 each wyb 5 after catalina!!
**If you have the $.60/1 Chex Mix coupons previously available, it will be FREE after catalina!!
(Thanks, Saving Addiction!)

Hormel Pepperoni
MQ: $.55/2 Hormel Pepperoni printable.
        $1/2 Hormel Pepperoni from 1/15 SS
mPerks Q: $.55/2 Hormel Pepperoni
Total: as low as $.23 each!!

Chobani Greek Yogurt
MQ: $.30/1 Chobani printable.
Total: .70

Betty Crocker Helper Meals
MQ: $.80/4 Betty Crocker Meals printable or printable or from 1/8 GM
        $.90/4 Betty Crocker Meals printable.
Total: as low as $.78 each

Green Giant Frozen Vegetables
MQ: $.60/3 Green Giant from 12/11 SS or 1/8 GM
Total: $.80 each

Michelina's or Lean Gourmet Entrees
MQ: $1/5 Michelina's printable or printable.
        $1/5 Lean Gourmet printable.
Total: $.80 each

Campbell's Condensed SoupMQ: $1/5 Campbell's Condensed Soup printable.
        $.40/4 Campbell's Condensed Chicken Noodle or Tomato Soup from 1/8 SS
        $.40/2 Campbell's Condensed Soup from 12/4 SS
Total: as low as $.80

Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits
MQ: $.40/2 Grands! Biscuits printable.
       $.30/2 Grands! Biscuits printable or printable or from 11/20, 12/4, 12/11 SS or 1/8 GM
Total: as low as $.80

Meijer Pasta
mPerks Q: $1/3 Meijer Pasta
Total: $.67 each

Click "Read more" for more deals at Meijer this week!!

Hunt's Tomatoes
MQ: $1/4 Hunt's Canned Tomatoes from 1/22 SS
        $.60/3, $.40/2 or $1/3 Hunts Tomatoes printable.
Total: as low as $.66 each

Totino's Pizza Rolls
MQ: $.50/2 Pizza Rolls printable.
        $.40/2 Pizza Rolls printable or from 12/11 SS or 1/8 GM
Total: as low as $.75 each

Chef Boyardee Pasta with Meat.
MQ:$.50/4 Chef Boyardee from 1/1 SS
Total: $.88 each

Aunt Jemima Breakfast Entrees or Scrambles
MQ: $1/2 Aunt Jemima printable.
Total: $.50 each

Hunt's Snack Pack Pudding
MQ: $.45/3 Snack Pack from 1/1 SS
Total: $.85 each

Mentos Gum
MQ: $1/1 Up2U Mentos Gum from 1/1 S (if included)
        $.55/1 Mentos from 1/1 SS
Total: as low as FREE (if Up2U is included)

Trident Gum
MQ: $1/3 Trident from 1/8 SS
Total: $.66 each

Wolf Chili
MQ: $.40/1 Wolf Chili from 1/22 SS
Total: $.60!!

Renuzit Adjustables
MQ: $.55/3 Renuzit Adjustables from 1/22 RP
Total: $.82 each

10/$10 Sale - Produce:
*Red, Yellow, or Orange Sweet Bell Peppers
*Broccoli Crowns
*Greenhouse Cucumbers
*Yellow Flesh or Red Potatoes, 3lb bag
*Meijer Organic Whole White or Minibella Mushrooms.
*Baby Cut Carrots
*Earthbound Farm Organic Baby Carrots.
-FREE if you use the $2/2 coupon from Recyclebank - just keep an eye on your total because it has been    known to only take $1 off the total instead of $2!!
*NewStar Flat Baby Leaf Spinach or Aunt Mid's Curly Leaf Spinach.
*Dole Classic Romaine, Just Lettuce or Greener Selection.

10/$10 Sale - Beverages:
*Pepsi or 7Up Products, 2L
*Meijer Tomato Juice or Vegetable Juice from Concentrate

10/$10 Sale - Frozen:
*Banquet Meals
*Jeno's Crisp N Tasty Pizza

10/$10 Sale - Grocery:
*Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Crackers.
*Kraft Easy Mac Cups or Macaroni & Cheese Whole Grain or Velveeta Mac & Cheese Cups
-These will most likely go on sale for $.79 or less in the next couple of weeks :)
*Armour LunchMakers or Healthy Ones Lunchmeat
*Marzetti Croutons
*Bar-S Jumbo Meat Franks, Chicken Franks or Bologna
*Hunt's Pasta Sauce
*Redi-Serve Chicken or Veal Patties
*Bush's Best Variety Beans
*Chili Magic Beans
*Manwich
*Aunt Millie's English Muffins.
*Crusty French Baguette
*Del Monte Fruit Naturals
*Quaker Quakes Rice Cakes
*Mars King Size Candy Bars or Theater Box Candy
*Stauffer's Animal Crackers and Austin Sandwich Crackers

10/$10 Sale - Household:
*Angel Soft Bath Tissue, 4pk
*Meijer Reclosable Bags
*Meijer Essentials Paper Towel, 1 roll

Lloyd's BBQ Shredded Beef, Pork or Chicken
Sale: $3.99
MQ: $1/1 Lloyd's BBQ Product from 1/15 SS
Total: $2.99

Bob Evans Sausage
Sale: $2.79
MQ: $1/2 Bob Evans printable.
Total: $2.29 each

Coffee-Mate Creamer
Sale: $1.67
MQ: $.55/1 Coffee-Mate Creamer printable or from 1/30 RP
Total: $1.12

Kraft Chunk Cheese or Cracker CutsSale: $1.67

Nestle Refrigerated Cookie Dough
Sale: $2
MQ: $1.25/2 Nestle printable.
        $.55/1 Nestle printable.
Total: $1.38 each

Sargento Shredded Cheese
Sale: $2
MQ: $.55/2 Sargento from 1/22 SS
Total: $1.73 each

DiGiorno Pizza
Sale: $5
MQ: $1/1 DiGiorno printable.
         $1/2 DiGiorno from 1/15 SS
Total: as low as $4

Farm Rich Snacks
Sale: B2G1 FREE
MQ: $1.50/2 or $.75/1 Farm Rich from 1/15 SS

Healthy Choice Complete Meals, Cafe Steamers or Modern Classics
Sale: $2.20
MQ: $1/2 Healthy Choice Cafe Steamers printable.
        $1/3 Healthy Choice Complete Meals printable.
Total: as low as $1.70 each

Meijer Vegetables
Sale: $.59

Progresso Soup
Sale: $1.25
MQ: $1/4 Progresso Soup from 12/11 SS or 1/8 GM
Total: $1

I Can't Believe It's Not Butter Tub
MQ: $1/1 ICBINB printable.
InAd Q: $2/2 ICBINB (located in weekly ad)
Total: varies - I'm not sure what the regular price is but I believe that this will be under $1 after the stacked coupons!!

Buy any 10 or More Box Tops for Education Products, Get 70 Bonus Box Tops
There are quite a few General Mills products on sale. I will do matchups for these later this weekend but, for now, I'm tired and ready for bed :)

Produce Deals:
*Red or Green Seedless Grapes: $1.18/lb.
-This is a good price for the winter months!
*Ocean Spray Florida Grapefruit, 5lb bag: $2.
*Red, Bosc or Anjou Pears: $.99/lb.
*Organic Pears: $1.29/lb

Meat Deals:
*Tyson Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: $2.29/lb
*Center Cut Bone-In Pork Chops: $2.49lb
*Certified Angus Beef Ground Beef from Chuck: $2.99/lb
*Shank or Butt Portion Smoked Ham: $1.69/lb

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

"Real" Food....My Once-a-Month Plan for 2012!

2012-01-20T16:46:00.000-05:00

One of my goals for 2012 is to make more "real" food, cook from scratch, try some recipes for homemade, natural foods. There are so many recipes that I've wanted to try for awhile now but would get a little overwhelmed - too many ideas rumbling around in my head. To make it a little less overwhelming, I'm going to try doing one new "real" food recipe per month. And here's my list.......

January: Yogurt
February: Refried Beans
March: Granola Bars
April: Bread Machine Bread
May: Taco Seasoning
June: Fruit Leather
July: Wheat Thin Crackers
August: Salsa
September: Homemade Tortillas
October: Bread Crumbs
November: Vanilla Extract
December: Chicken Nuggets

This list is certainly not set in stone. If I feel the need to try the Wheat Thins Crackers in March, I'll move things around and try them in March. I have a few recipes ~~saved~~ pinned (don't you just LOVE Pinterest) to try but if you have any recommendations of great recipes for any of these foods, please send me the link or the recipe! (Ahem, Danielle, that means you! Yes, I need your yogurt recipe for the 400th time. This time I promise I'll use it and save it.)

And, of course, if you've tried something you'd like to share, I would be more than happy to feature. And, I'm sure everyone else would enjoy it as well!

Coupon Preview: 1/21

2012-01-20T11:37:00.000-05:00

Go here to see a preview of the coupons that will be in the paper this Sunday, January 21. It looks like there will be 2 inserts this week: Smartsource and RedPlum.

Remember that the coupons and their values vary by region. Even though I live in Kalamazoo, I buy the Grand Rapids Press or the Detroit Free Press. There is a HUGE difference between the two papers! Take a peek at the inserts and see what you think!

Also, be sure to check your paper and make sure that the inserts are in there before you buy it!

*Local Readers: I have been buying the Grand Rapids Press for the last few months now. It seems that most weeks, the Detroit Free Press at my local stores does not contain all of the inserts (or any sometimes). From time to time the GR Press will be missing a high value coupon but it has been much more consistent!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support.

Meijer Ad Preview: 1/22 - 1/28

2012-01-20T07:07:00.000-05:00

Want to know what's on sale next week at Meijer? Check out the ad preview for 1/22 - 1/28! Meijer is having another 10/$10...11th FREE Sale this week and there are some great deals to go along with it! A few of my favorites included in the sale are.......
*Goldfish Crackers
*Dole Salad, Mushrooms
*Baby Carrots
*3lb bag of Potatoes
*Kraft BBQ Sauce

And some other deals to get ready for........

Chex Mix - Sunday Only Deal.
Sale: $1 (part of 10/10)
MQ: $.50/2 Chex Mix printable or from 12/11 SS or 1/8 GM
Total: $.75 each
Catalina Deal: Buy 3 Chex Mix 4.5oz+, Get a $1 custom coupon valid on your next order. Buy 4, get a $2 OYNO. Buy 5+ get a $3 OYNO (SUNDAY ONLY)
Final Cost: as low as $.20 each wyb 5 after catalina!!
**If you have the $.60/1 Chex Mix coupons previously available, it will be FREE after catalina!!
(Thanks, Saving Addiction!)

Hormel Pepperoni
Sale: $1 (part of 10/10)
MQ: $.55/2 Hormel Pepperoni printable.
mPerks Q: $.55/2 Hormel Pepperoni
Total: $.45 each
**Just a word of caution: When I've used this coupon on these packs in the past, it beeped. The coupon clearly states Hormel Pepperoni packs and these are Hormel Pepperoni packs. My cashiers have always put it through. That being said, there are no guarantees that the mPerks will go through. And that's not so easy for the cashiers to take care of. I will be giving it a try and will let you know how it goes!

I Can't Believe It's Not Butter Tub
MQ: $1/1 ICBINB printable.
InAd Q: $2/2 ICBINB (located in weekly ad)
Total: varies - I'm not sure what the regular price is but I believe that this will be under $1 after the stacked coupons!!

Meijer Pasta
Sale: $1 (part of 10/10)
mPerks Q: $1/3 Meijer Pasta
Total: $.66 each

I will be working on matchups throughout the weekend!

Thank You Thursday......Would Like Your Thoughts

2012-01-19T16:45:00.000-05:00

Thank You Thursday has been a regular part of this blog from the start! Before I even started blogging, I was contacting companies.....lots of companies......and getting lots of coupons in return. As couponing has become more popular and has attracted more attention (thank you, Extreme Couponing), it seems that companies are not sending out the coupons that they once were.

My thoughts......I'm thinking it's time to say goodbye to Thank You Thursday. It seems to me and a few friends that I had asked to email some companies as well that, for the most part, the time put into emailing companies is not worth the amount of coupons received in return. I would, however, encourage you to continue emailing companies from time to time as a way to say thanks, to give back, to make someone smile. But with the expectation that you will not receive coupons in return.

What are your thoughts? I would certainly consider continuing this feature if there is interest. It probably wouldn't be a weekly feature, maybe a monthly feature. Maybe something along the lines of "Look what I got in the mail" with help from readers. I'm open to ideas or we can just say goodbye to Thank You Thursday. What do you think?

DIY Drain Cleaner: Better for Your Family and for Your Wallet!

2012-01-19T13:27:00.001-05:00

I'm certain that my friend Deidre and I are not the only people that cringe at spending money on drain cleaner. But, unfortunately, when you need it, you need it and even with a sale and a coupon, it can be costly! As I mentioned earlier this week, one of my goals for 2012 is to start making our own household cleaners as we run out of the store bought cleaners we have. My friend Deidre is joining me on this goal and is going to share her adventures with us as well! Her first homemade cleaner recipe came from the book Miserly Moms by Jonni McCoy (this book is filled with recipes for homemade cleaners).....drain cleaner:

What You Need:
1/4 cup baking soda
1/2 cup vinegar
boiling water

Here's What She Did:
I added 1/4 baking soda to the drain followed by 1/2 cup vinegar. I think all you really need is a 2:1 vinegar to baking soda ratio, depending on the size of the drain. I let the solution sit in the drain while I boiled up some water in my tea kettle. Then I flushed the drain with boiling water. I did the process twice.

Miserly Moms by Jonni McCoy also suggests to flush the drain with 1/4 cup salt and boiling water on a weekly basis!

After a Week:
It's been a week since I used the DIY drain cleaner and both drains are still working fine. I may still try the step of using salt and boiling water to help keep it clean if I remember. Overall I'm happy with the process, it worked as well as the store bought stuff and is much safer and MUCH cheaper!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

Meijer One Day Sale This Saturday!!

2012-01-19T11:40:00.000-05:00

Meijer is having a One Day Sale this Saturday, January 21, starting at 6am! Here are the best deals:

Coupons:
mPerks Exclusive: Clip your mPerks coupon to get 15% off your total general merchandise or apparel purchase of $25 of more!
**There is a lot of clearance all throughout the store. Take advantage of all of the great clearance prices AND the 15% off mPerks coupon!!

Grocery:
Bananas
Sale: $.39/lb - whoo-hoo!!

Pepsi (8pk bottles) or 7Up Products (6pk bottles)
Sale: B2G2 FREE
MQ: $2/2 Pepsi Multipack from 1/15 SS
Total: varies - should be a great price on the Pepsi!!

Meijer Tilapia Filets, 16oz frozen
Sale: $2.99

California Sweet Seedless Navel Oranges, 8lb bag
Sale: $3.69

Fritos or Cheetos
Sale: BOGO

Nabisco Wheat Thins or Triscuits
Sale: $1.99
MQ: $3/3 Nabisco from 1/8 SS
mPerks Q: $1/2 Nabisco Snack Crackers
Total: $.66 each!!

Post Honey Bunches of Oats
Sale: BOGO
MQ: $1/1 Honey Bunches of Oats printable.
Total: varies - I don't know the regular price but I would think with the sale and the coupon, it will be between $1 and $1.50.

Colgate Toothpaste, Aquafresh Toothpaste or Close Up Toothpaste
Sale: $1.67
MQ: $.75/1 Colgate from 1/1 SS
$.75/1 Aquafresh from 1/1 RP
Total: $.92

Suave Shampoo or Conditioner
Sale: $.79

Goody Hair Accessories
Sale: BOGO 50% off

Pampers Jumbo Pack Diapers
Sale: $8.99
MQ: $1/2 Pampers from 1/1 P&G
Total: $8.49 each

General Merchandise:
Prestone Full Strength Antifreeze
Sale: $12.47
15% off mPerks Q (with $25 GM or Apparel purchase) = $10.60
Receive $7 Mail in Rebate form catalina coupon at checkout (limit 2)
Final Cost: $3.60 after MIR!

Prestone 50/50 Antifreeze
Sale: $10.47
15% off mPerks Q (with $25 GM or Apparel purchase) = $8.90
Receive $5 Mail in Rebate form catalina coupon at checkout (limit 2)
Final Cost: $3.90 after MIR!!

Check out the ad for all of the general merchandise and apparel sales for the One Day Sale! And don't forget about all of the great deals this week as well as the weekly matchups! This is a great week for Meijer shopping!!

SwagbucksTV: Who Knew......

2012-01-18T19:06:00.000-05:00

.....how easy it is!!! After hearing my dad mention (about 50 times in the last year or so) how easy it is to earn some Swagbucks through SwagbucksTV, I finally decided to give it a try! And my thoughts.....why didn't I do this sooner? "Watch" 10 videos to get 3 Swagbucks. And the best part of it is that you don't actually have to watch the videos. Push your mute button, click on a video, and go back to what you were doing. Every once in awhile go back to click on a new video and when you've done 10, you'll earn an easy 3 Swagbucks. You could also watch (or listen to) the videos and keep up on what's going on in the world (or in Hollywood). I'm sure there's a limit to how many you can do but I haven't reached it yet. So far, the most I've done is 30 videos in one evening for 9 Swagbucks!

If you haven't tried Swagbucks yet, check out the Swagbucks 101 series and sign up here!! It's definitely worth taking a look!

(Thanks, Dad!)

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

Want to Get the Most of Your Toothpaste?

2012-01-18T10:15:00.000-05:00

You squeeze and squeeze and you cannot get another little drop of toothpaste on your toothbrush but you know there is still some in there! Just cut off the end! You'll be able to get a few more brushes out of it. Might not be a lot when you think of just one tube but if you do this from here on out, it adds up!

My Goals for 2012.......

2012-01-17T19:05:00.000-05:00

I realize that I am about a week late on the 2012 goals post but it actually took me until last week to get them all finalized. Instead of the usual last minute writing of goals (you know, the "Oh, no! It's January 1 and I haven't written any goals so I better write some down), I took my time. And I fully intend on making them stick because there are some good ones on here!

Personal.....
*Establish and maintain a daily time with the Lord - reading, praying, and listening. I've established this plenty of times. Maintaining is the key!

*Read the Bible in a year - Using this program (it's not to late to catch up!)

*Once a Month projects and "real food" recipes - I always have so many ideas of things that I want to make and I just end up overwhelmed. This year, I will be trying a new project or "real food" recipe each month. And, of course, I'll be sharing these with you guys!

*Lose the Stay at Home Mommy Weight - I wish I could blame it on the baby but I can't. After having Ellie, I lost the weight pretty quickly but it has been creeping back up over the past 2+ years. Time to dig deep and do this. For myself. For my husband. For my girls.

Marriage.......
*Weekly date nights with my husband - Nothing fancy, nothing expensive. In fact, many of our dates will be right in the comfort of our own home, spending absolutely no money. The point is that we put away everything else and spend time together. And I'll be sharing lots of ideas with you guys!

*Join a Small Group with a Marriage Focus through our church - We've been talking about doing this for awhile but always find an excuse. Hopefully adding this to our goals will help to avoid this when its time to sign up!

Parenting the Kiddos......
*Monthly Dates with Each Kiddo - We do it from time to time and they love it! I would like to make this more regular! Doesn't have to be anything fancy or expensive - just time spent one-on-one with each kiddo where they get my full attention!

*Chapter Books Before Bed - The girls absolutely love books! Books before naptime and bedtime are a given in our house. I would love to start reading some chapter books to the girls before bed.

*Chore Chart and Allowance - The girls will have chores that they are expected to do on a daily or weekly basis - things that they are contributing because they are part of the family (aka....no allowance). We are also going to start Cailynn on some extra chores to earn a small allowance.

*A Craft a Week - We always have so much fun making things!

Friends/Relationships.......*Weekly Letters - Write a letter to one person each week. I'm hoping to get the girls involved with this a bit too. Maybe they could include their own letter or picture with mine from time to time.

Household.....
*Plant a garden - This was on my list for last year but, because I don't have an ideal place for gardening, I didn't do it. This year I am determined - whether I pay for a spot in a community garden or learn how to do some container gardening on my porch, I WILL have a garden. I just need to put some extra thought into it!

*Switch to Natural, Homemade Household Cleaners - As I use up the last of my household cleaners, I plan to replace them with a homemade cleaner. I've had this thought in the back of my mind for awhile now but I just kept getting household cleaners so cheap. The great deals were just too hard to pass up. But now I'm ready to make the change!

*Create a Household Binder - I am so looking forward to having this in place! This will be my our project in February or March. Leaning towards March at this point!

Financial......
*Find Other Ways to Bring Money In - Or work on increasing the money we're already bringing in. With all of the changes we've been through in the last year, we have been in survival mode.

*Build Our Emergency Fund Back Up - With my husband's layoff, we really dipped into our emergency fund (which is exactly why we had it) so we would like to see it start growing again this year!

So, there you go.....my goals. These are certainly not set in stone. I plan to tweek these throughout the year - add some, change some, and maybe take some out completely!

Did you make any goals this year? Want to share?

Pampers Gifts to Grow: 10 Point Code

2012-01-17T15:14:00.000-05:00

In honor of MLK, Jr Day, Pampers Gifts to Grow has released a 10 point code! Just head on over to Pampers Gifts to Grow and enter code FBMLKKU4RPP6P12!

Even if you don't have a kiddo in diapers, you might want to consider joining! Pampers offers quite a few public codes! Plus, they have great rewards! The last thing I got was a gift card to Chili's!

(Thanks, Savings and Stewardship!)

This post contains an affiliate. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

Meijer mPerks: 15 Percent Off for Saturday, January 21

2012-01-17T13:58:00.000-05:00

Head on over to your mPerks account to clip a coupon for 15% off you General Merchandise and Apparel Purchase of $25 of more for Saturday, January 21!

Cooking with the Kiddos: No Bake Energy Bites.....Yum!!

2012-01-17T13:46:00.000-05:00

The girls and I were introduced to these yummy No Bake Energy Bites last week when we were visiting with some friends. So, of course, we had to give them a try!

The great thing about this recipe is that it easy to tailor this to what you have in your pantry!

Here's what I used:

1 1/2 cups rolled oats

1/2 cup flaxseed

1/2 cup peanut butter

1/2 cup chocolate chips

1/3 cup honey

1/4 cup cocoa powder

1 tsp vanilla

But don't just go with my list......check out what ingredients Cheapskate Cook or Smashed Peas and Carrots used in their No Bake Energy Bites.

And you'll never believe how easy these are to make!!

Mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl. Once it is well mixed (if your kiddos are helping, you'll probably want to finish the mixing to be sure its all mixed in), refrigerate for about 30 minutes or so.

Once they have cooled, pull them out and roll them into a small balls! Cailynn and Ellie were interested for about one second.....once they made their first ball, all they wanted to do was eat it!

I ended up making two batches today. The first was an experiment and I added too much cocoa. That's when I called my friend Deidre and she directed me to the Cheapskate Cook post. The second batch turned out much tastier!!

Be sure to check out the Cooking with Kiddos series for more ideas!!

My Meijer Trip: FREE Starkist and Beech Nut Baby Food

2012-01-17T11:08:00.001-05:00

Missing from the picture: (16) Beech Nut Stage 2 Baby Food Jars

Total OOP: $34.60

Savings: $72.36

The Good:
*I got 5% off my groceries with my Meijer Credit Card (no longer available) and with this discount, I was able to get the 16 jars of baby food for just $2.99 and received a $3 catalina = FREE after catalina!!

*Mott's Healthy Harvest Applesause is included in the Mott's Applesauce deal!! This kind is naturally flavored and no high fructose corn syrup - yay!!!

*Hormel Natural Lunchmeat was on sale for $2.63 at my store. Use the $.50/1 coupon to get it for $2.13 - buy two and get FREE Brownberry bread. Pretty good deal!

*StarKist Tuna Pouches are priced at $.99 at my store. FREE after stacked coupons - whoo-hoo!!

*Smart Balance Milk for $.59.....again! I still had a few left from the last time this deal was around! Gotta love deals on milk!!

*Wheat tortillas ARE included in the Meijer tortilla sale this week!

The Bad:
*A trip to customer service......my Beech Nut coupon was automatically reduced to $1.38 by the computer. Since my total after coupons came to $2.99, it shouldn't have been reduced. Keep an eye on that at the store!! And, my cashier only scanned 4 of the Mott's applesauce so I didn't get my $5 instant savings. The customer service cashier was amazing, though - very patient, helpful, and friendly!!

*No Weight Watchers Scale.....somehow I forgot to print the coupon! And I really wanted to take advantage of the 15% off so it looks like I'll be passing on the scale for now.

For the details on all of these deals, be sure to check out this week's matchups as well as all of the deals that are popping up throughout the week!

Did you find any great deals at Meijer this week? Or want to tell us about your trip this week (it is a great week, isn't it!)? Please share - it's always fun to read how everyone does!

And.....I'm Back!!

2012-01-16T20:30:00.000-05:00

As I mentioned in my post a few weeks back, I was in need of a break. And, to be honest, I really wasn't sure if it was a break or if would be the end of the blog. I figured a few weeks away would give me the opportunity to see how I really feel about it. Would I miss it? Or would it be a weight off of my shoulders?

Well, it turned out to be a little bit of both.

I missed sharing things with all of you - whether it be a cute pic of my kids, a great deal I scored, or a project that I've been working on, it's fun to share it with other people that get just as excited as I do. I missed my Meijer matchups. Doing matchups makes me more accountable, keeps me informed of the best deals, and confuses me less. During my break, I used matchups that show double coupons and, even though I know it showed double coupons, I forgot to account for that several times and ended up spending more than I would have liked. And I know I would miss the encouraging emails I get from you all each week!
But there were things that I didn't miss. The biggies - the amount of time it took to try to keep up and the stress of knowing that I couldn't.

So, where does that leave us? While I don't have everything sorted out and there will be some trial and error, I have some ideas of where this blog is headed. As I try new things, your input will help me decide what stays and what goes.

What you will find.....
*Meijer Matchups and Deals - Since I'll still be looking for the deals for myself, I might as well share them with you too!! And I plan on doing matchups most weeks but, on occasion, when my weekend is busy, I will link up to other matchups and not think twice about it.
*Free and Frugal Family Fun - We are on a budget, a tight budget, but I refuse to let that stop us from getting out and enjoying ourselves. Or staying in and enjoying ourselves. I might have to get creative but I am determined.
*Tips on Saving - Ideas on easy ways to save - in the house, outside of the house, etc
*Projects and Crafty Things - Without spending a lot of money, of course!
*Recipes - for "real" food, for household cleaners, to use with the kiddos, etc
*Local Deals - I'm hoping to find deals for the Kalamazoo/Portage area and possibly branching out to Holland/Grand Rapids as well.
*Coupons, Great Deals, and Links to Other Bloggers - As I mentioned before, I can't be the minute by minute hot deals blogger that I had once tried to be. I'm just not home enough. But I will still post some great deals and coupons as well as send you to other bloggers and their specialties!

I'm sure that's not all you'll see but that's a start, right? If you have any ideas of what you would like to see, let me know. For the most part, I will be focusing on things that I'm doing in my own life but I'm always up for branching out!

Hobby Lobby: 40 Percent Off Coupon + Great Deals!!

2012-01-16T18:20:00.001-05:00

Once again, Hobby Lobby has a 40% off one regular price item coupon available again this week. I'm not sure how long this coupon will continue being available every week but I'll take it while I can!

And there are lots of great deals to be had at Hobby Lobby this week as well! Here are a few of my favorites:
*Chipboard & Chip Decor in the Scrapbooking Section is 50% off - I'm thinking of buying some letters to add to the reading nook in the girls' room! Something like this!
*Tempera Paints for $1.27 - We use this for a lot of our art projects! It's cheap and it does the trick!
*Jewelry Shoppe Findings are 50% off - I am making washer necklaces (will share the details later) so I will be grabbing a few things from this section this week!

If you are interested in making the family photo memory match game that I made for the girls for Christmas, scrapbooking paper is 50% off and unfinished wood is 30% off. Use the coupon for the Mod Podge and grab some sponge brushes and you're all set!

Are you working on any fun craft projects right now? Please share - I have a bit of a crafting bug! It helps that I got a Hobby Lobby gift card for Christmas and I'm trying to make the most of it!

$.39 Bagels are Back at Kalamazoo Area's Big Apple Bagels!

2012-01-16T13:50:00.001-05:00

The Big Apple Bagel stores in the Kalamazoo area are, once again, having their $.39 bagel sale this Friday, January 20! Yep, you can get your tasty bagels for just $.39 each!

I do believe this sale is also going at the Battle Creek Big Apple Bagel store but you might want to call and confirm just in case!

Reminder: Get Your Daily Swagbucks!!

2012-01-16T10:51:00.001-05:00

January Swagbucks Challenge: How Have You Been Doing?

2012-01-15T22:08:00.000-05:00

I've missed just one day this month! And I have a great excuse - I was out of town with no access to a computer. So, how have you been doing? Don't forget - if you've been keeping up, you'll be able to enter for a chance to win a $5 Amazon gift card!

Meijer: Weight Watchers Scale for $14.99!

2012-01-15T21:12:00.001-05:00

Looking for a new scale? We do! Right now we are using the Wii for our weekly weigh-in and that's a pain. It takes too much time to get it set up. So I'm thinking this deal is for me! And maybe you?

Weight Watchers Scale with Handle
Price Drop: $19.99 (through 1/29)
MQ: $5/1 Weight Watchers Scale printable.
Total: $14.99

I will be picking this up tomorrow and get 15% off with my Meijer credit card!

(Thanks, Saving Addiction!)

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

Harding's Matchups: 1/15 - 1/21

2012-01-15T19:56:00.000-05:00

These are not complete matchups so be sure to check your local ad before you head to Hardings to see if there are any other sales that you might want to take advantage of. I will include the very best deals that I find for the week.

Spartan Chicken Breasts or Tenders, 3lb frozen bag
Sale: B2G3 FREE
Total: $4.97/bag or $1.60/lb wyb 5

California, Seedless Navel Oranges
Sale: B2G3 FREE
Total: $.20 each wyb 5

Eckrich All-Meat Hot Dogs, Bologna, or Salami
Sale: B2G3 FREE
Total: $1.40 each wyb 5

Progresso Soup
Sale: B2G3 FREE
MQ: $1/4 Progresso from 12/11 SS or 1/8 GM

Deal Idea:
Buy (10) Progresso
Use $1/4 coupon
Get 6 FREE
Total: $.44 each

Country Fresh Ice Cream Sandwiches
Sale: B2G3 FREE
Total: $1.60 each wyb 5

Ken's Steak House Dressing
Sale: B2G3 FREE
MQ: $1/1 Ken's from 1/8 SS
Total: $1.16 each wyb 5

Country Fresh Sour Cream or Chip Dip
Sale: B2G3 FREE
Total: $.60 each wyb 5

Propel
Sale: B2G3 FREE
Total: $.52 each wyb 5

7Up Products, 6pk bottles
Sale: B2G3 FREE
Total: $1.72 each wyb 5

Quaker Breakfast Blowout: Buy Two Advertised Items, Get any Three FREE!!
I popped in quickly this morning but didn't have a pen with me so I only remember a couple of the prices.

Quaker Old Fashioned or Quick Oats
Price: $4.99
Total: $2 each wyb 5
*These are for the large tubs cylinders of Quaker Oats.

Quaker Cereal
Price: $4.59
Total: $1.84 each wyb 5

Some decent deals but nothing amazing! Will you be heading to Hardings this week or is this week a skipper?

Meijer: Beech Nut Baby Food for $.02 Per Jar!!

2012-01-15T13:27:00.000-05:00

Not sure if you've seen the Meijer Beech Nut Baby Food deals floating around the internet the last couple of weeks or so but it appears it has gotten even better with a new mPerks coupon! Here's the deal:

Buy (16) Beech Nut Stage 2 Foods @ $0.46 = $7.36
Use $2.00/16 Beech Nut printable.
Use $2.00/16 Beech Nut mPerks coupon.
Pay $3.36
Get a $3.00 catalina coupon valid on your next order.
Final Cost: $.36 after catalina coupon or just $.02 per jar!!

If you do not have a need for baby food, consider picking it up and giving it to a friend that might need it or donating it! This is a great donation item!!

**Keep in mind that prices do vary by store. The $.46 price is something that I have not confirmed at my local store yet. I will be heading to Meijer early this week and will let you know what I find!

For more deals at Meijer, check out this week's matchups!

(Thanks, Bargains to Bounty!)

The Best of the Drugstores......1/15 - 1/21

2012-01-14T21:32:00.000-05:00

Here are the best deals at Rite Aid this week, thanks to Fabulessly Frugal!

UP2U Gum.
Sale: $1
MQ: $1/1 UP2U Gum Packs from 1/1 SS
Total: FREE!!

Select Theraflu and Excedrin
Sale: 3/$15
MQ: $3/1 or $2/1 Theraflu from 12/4 SS
RA Q: $1/1 Theraflu Rite Aid printable from December (must have watched already)
MIR: $5 Retailer Gift Card Theraflu Rebate (more details here)
Get $5 +up wyb 3 (limit 2)
Total: FREE + up to $5 Moneymaker after Up Reward and MIR!!

Tom’s Toothpaste, Mouth Rinse, APDO, Soap
Sale: $3.99
Get $3 Up (limit 2)
Total: $0.99 after Up Reward!

For more deals at Rite Aid, check out Fabulessly Frugal!

Here are the best deals at Walgreens this week, thanks to Coupon Teacher!

Thermacare Singles
Sale: $2.49
Get $2.49 RR

South Beach Diet Bars
Sale: $5.99
Get $5.99 RR

Brita Pitcher
Sale: $16.99
MQ: $4/1 Brita Pitcher or Faucet Mount System from 1/15 SS
Wags Q: $2/1 Brita Replacement Filters or Pitcher, exp. 1/28/12 (Walgreens, Jan)
$10 mail in rebate.
Total: $.99 after coupons and MIR

Estroven PM 24 ct.
Sale: $10
Get $10 RR
**The coupon in the Walgreens coupon book is not for this size.

Abrexin Weight Loss Supplement
Sale: $10
Get $10 RR

For more deals at Walgreens this week, check out Coupon Teacher!

Here are the best deals at CVS, thanks to Couponing for 4!!

Brita Pitcher or Filter Replacements 3 pks
Sale: $14.99 (Limit 1)
Get $5 ECB
MQ: $2/1 Brita Filter Product printable.
$4/1 Brita Pitcher or Faucet Mount System from 1/15 SS or 12/4 SS
File for $10 Brita Pitcher rebate.
Total: FREE + up to $4.01 Moneymaker!

Just For Men
Sale: $6.99
MQ: $2/1 Just For Men printable.
FREE After MIR Just for Men MIR printable.
Total: FREE + up to $2 Moneymaker after MIR!

Hallmark Greeting Cards (Limit 1)
Get $3 ECB wyb 3
Total: 3 FREE if you buy $.99 or less cards!

For more deals at CVS, check out Couponing for 4!!

Meijer Matchups: 1/15 - 1/21

2012-01-14T00:31:00.000-05:00

Before you head to Meijer, make sure you read the ins and outs of Meijer shopping, and print out the Meijer Mealbox coupons you'll need. And don't forget to "clip" your mPerks coupons!!

*Be sure to print your Meijer Mealbox coupons today because Meijer is known for pulling coupons midweek, before their expiration date!!*

Abbreviations:
*MQ: Manufacturer's Coupon
*MBQ: Meijer Mealbox Coupons
*OYNO: On Your Next Order

Be sure to check out the most recent deals and updates at Meijer this week before you head to the store!

Here are the best deals at Meijer this week based on the Kalamazoo area ad:
It is a Meijer brand sale week so there will not be as many coupon matchups. I will include some of the better Meijer brand sales in the matchups but will not include all of them. Because I usually get the best deal when I combine sales with coupons, I find that I don't get many stock up deals during Meijer brand sale weeks.

Meijer Credit Card Event - On Sunday, January 15 and Monday, January 16, use your Meijer credit card and get 5% off grocery and healthy and beauty and 15% off general merchandise and apparel.

Meijer Grade A Large Eggs
Sale: $.99!!

Meijer Gallon Milk
Sale: $2.50

Meijer Ice Cream, Frozen Yogurt, Sherbet, Ice Cream Sandwiches, Fudge Bars, and Ice Cream Bars
Sale: $2.50

Meijer Shredded or Chunk Cheese
Sale: $2

Meijer Condensed Soup
Sale: $.50

Meijer Tortillas
Sale: $1.25
**Hoping this includes whole wheat tortillas!

General Mills Cereal
Includes Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Cheerios, Cocoa Puffs, Golden Grahams, Lucky Charms, Honey Nut Cheerios, Reese's Peanut Butter Puffs
Sale: $2.50
MQ: $1/3 General Mills Cereal from 1/8 SS
$.60/1 Cinnamon Toast Crunch printable.
$1.10/2 Cheerios (all varieties) printable.
Buy 4 General Mills Cereal, Get $2 off Instantly!
Total: as low as $1.40 each wyb 4!!
**It seems like $1.50 and under is now a decent price for cereal......I'm still aiming for $1 and under though! How about you?

Click "Read more" for more deals at Meijer this week!!

Meijer Yogurt Cups
Sale: $.40

Meijer String Cheese or Grated Parmesan
Sale: $3

Meijer Cream Cheese
Sale: $1.50

Meijer Butter Quarters
Sale: $2

Meijer Frozen Potatoes
Sale: $2

Hormel Natural Choice Lunchmeat or Bacon
Sale: 20% off
MQ: $.50/1 Hormel Natural Choice Lunchmeat printable or printable or from 1/8 SS
**Buy 2 Hormel Natural Choice Lunchmeat or Bacon, Get 1 Brownberry Bread FREE!!
Total: varies - I'm not sure how much the Hormel Lunchmeat is but this has the potential to be a good deal on lunchmeat and bread!

Del Monte or Contadina Tomatoes
Sale: $1 (part of the 10/10 sale)
MBQ: $1/5 Del Monte or Contadina Meijer printable.
Total: $.80 each

EatSmart Naturals
Sale: $2.50
MQ: $1/1 EatSmart from 1/8 SS
Total: $1.50

Lean Cuisine Simple Favorites Entrees
Sale: $2
MQ: $1/5 Lean Cuisine from 1/1 SS
Total: $1.80 each

StarKist Tuna Pouches
Sale: 20% off
MQ: $.50/1 StarKist printable or from 1/1 SS
MBQ: $1/2 StarKist Meijer printable.
Total: varies - possibly FREE or close to FREE!

Del Monte Fruit Cups
Sale: $2
MQ: $1/2 Del Monte Fruit Cups from 1/8 RP
MBQ: $.60/3 Del Monte Fruit Cups Meijer printable.

Deal Scenario:
Buy (6) Del Monte Fruit Cups @ $2 each = $12
Use (3) $1/2 and (2) $.60/3
Total: $1.30 each

Mott's Apple Sauce
Sale: $1.67
**Buy 5 Select Mott's, Snapple, Dr. Pepper, or 7-Up Products, Get $5 off Instantly!
Total: $.67 each wyb 5!!

Mott's Apple Juice, Motts for Tots, Mott's Plus, or Mott's Garden Blend Vegetable Juice
Sale: $2.19
MBQ: $1/2 Mott's Apple or Garden Vegetable Juice Meijer printable.
**Buy 5 Select Mott's, Snapple, Dr. Pepper, or 7-Up Products, Get $5 off Instantly!
Total: $0.79 each wyb 5!!

Snapple Tea
Sale: $4.99
MBQ: $1/2 Snapple Tea Meijer printable.
**Buy 5 Select Mott's, Snapple, Dr. Pepper, or 7-Up Products, Get $5 off Instantly!
Total: as low as $3.59 each wyb 5

7Up Products, 12pk cans
Sale: $4
MBQ: $1/3 7Up Products, 12pk Meijer printable.
**Buy 5 Select Mott's, Snapple, Dr. Pepper, or 7-Up Products, Get $5 off Instantly!
Total: as low as $2.80 each wyb 5!!

Yoplait Greek Yogurt Cups
Sale: $.89
MQ: $.50/2 Yoplait Greek printable.
Total: $.64 each

Smart Balance Milk
Sale: $2.59
MQ: $1.50/1 Smart Balance from 1/8 SS
MBQ: $1/2 Smart Balance Meijer printable.
Total: $.59 each!!

Smart Balance Buttery Spread
Sale: $2.50
MQ: $1/2 Smart Balance Butter from 1/8 SS
MBQ: $1/2 Smart Balance Meijer printable.
Total: $1.50 each

Zatarains
Sale: 25% off
MBQ: $1/5 Zatarains Meijer printable.

Mrs. Dash Seasoning Blend
Sale: $2
MBQ: $1/2 Mrs. Dash Seasoning Blend Meijer printable.
Total: $1.50 each

Barilla Pasta Plus or Barilla Lasagne, Manicotti, Jumbo Shells
Sale: $1.59
MBQ: $1/4 Barilla Pasta Plus, Lasagne, Manicotti, Shells Meijer printable.
Total: $1.34 each

Barilla Pasta Sauce
Sale: $2
MQ: $1/1 Barilla Pasta Sauce printable.
MBQ: $1/4 Barilla Pasta Sauce Meijer printable.
Total: as low as $.75 each wyb 4!!

10/$10 Sale.....11th FREE:
*Meijer Split Top Wheat or White Bread or Buns.
*Meijer Dressing and Croutons
*Meijer Pasta Sauce
*Meijer Steamable Vegetables or Frozen Vegetables
*Meijer Naturals Salsa
*Meijer Microwave Popcorn, Pork Rinds, Pretzels and Cheese Puffs
*Meijer Frosting, Brownie Mix or Pound Cake Mix
***There are lots of items on the 10/10 list, be sure to check out the ad!

Finish Powerball Tabs or Gelpacs or Quantum Powerball Tabs.
Sale: $5.49
MQ: $2.15/1 Finish from 1/8 SS
Total: $3.34

Buy $10 in Clorox, Formula 409, or Pine Sol Products, Get $3 off Instantly!

Formula 409 Spray, Clorox Sanitizing Spray or Disinfecting Wipes
Sale: $2.50
MQ: $1/2 Clorox Disinfecting Wipes from 10/30 SS (expires 1/15)
MBQ: $1/3 Clorox or Formula 409 Meijer printable.
Final Cost: as low as $1 each wyb 4 after instant savings!

Pine Sol Portable Cleaner or Clorox Disinfecting Bathroom Cleaner
Sale: $3
MQ: $.50/1 Pine Sol printable.
MBQ: $1/3 Pine Sol or Clorox Meijer printable.
Final Cost: $1.75 each wyb 4 after instant savings!

Produce Deals:
*Premium Large Russet Potatoes, 8lb bag: $2.50
*Anjou, Red or Bosc Pears: $.99/lb.
*Organic Pears: $1.29/lb
*Select Apples: $.79/lb
*Large Cantaloupes: $2
*Raspberries: $2
*Fresh Bi-Color Sweet Corn: 6/$2
*Red or Green Seedless Grapes: $1.24/lb
*Clementine Mandarins, 5lb box: $5.49

Meat Deals:
*Boneless Chuckeye Roast or Steak: $3.99/lb
*Pork Shoulder Bone In Country Style Ribs: $1.69/lb
*Meijer Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast, frozen bag: $4.99
*Meijer Split Chicken Breasts: $1.19/lb - family pack

Meijer Credit Card Event: 1/15 - 1/16

2012-01-13T15:33:00.000-05:00

Meijer is having a Credit Card Event on Sunday, January 15 and Monday, January 16!! Use your Meijer Credit Card and get 15% off general merchandise and apparel and 5% off grocery and health & beauty products purchased!

Coupon Preview: 1/15

2012-01-13T11:59:00.000-05:00

Go here to see a preview of the coupons that will be in the paper this Sunday, January 15. It looks like there will be 1 insert this week: Smartsource. A bit of a let down after the last two weeks, huh?

Remember that the coupons and their values vary by region. Even though I live in Kalamazoo, I buy the Grand Rapids Press or the Detroit Free Press. There is a HUGE difference between the two papers! Take a peek at the inserts and see what you think!

Also, be sure to check your paper and make sure that the inserts are in there before you buy it!

*Local Readers: I have been buying the Grand Rapids Press for the last few months now. It seems that most weeks, the Detroit Free Press at my local stores does not contain all of the inserts (or any sometimes). From time to time the GR Press will be missing a high value coupon but it has been much more consistent!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support.

Meijer Ad Preview: 1/15 - 1/21

2012-01-13T10:11:00.000-05:00

Well, it looks like Meijer is going to take it easy on me this week with a Meijer brand sale. I will be jumping back in with matchups and hope to have them up for you tonight (late, late tonight)! Even though it is a Meijer brand sale week, it looks like there are still some great deals to be had! Here's what I see at first glance:

Meijer Credit Card Event - Sunday, January 15 and Monday, January 16, use your Meijer Credit Card and get 5% off grocery and health and beauty products and 15% off general merchandise and apparel.

Meijer Grade A Large Eggs
Sale: $.99
**We go through a lot of eggs so I will be stocking up! How about you?

Meijer Split Top Wheat or White Bread or Buns
Sale: $1

Select Pears
Sale: $.99/lb
**Organic Pears are on sale for $1.29/lb

Barilla Pasta Sauce
Sale: $2
MQ: $1/1 Barilla Pasta Sauce printable.
MBQ: $1/4 Barilla Pasta Sauce Meijer printable.
Total: as low as $.75 each wyb 4

Smart Balance Milk
Sale: $2.59
MQ: $1.50/1 Smart Balance Milk from 1/8 SS
MBQ: $1/2 Smart Balance Milk Meijer printable.
Total: $.59 each!!

Mott's Applesauce, 6 cup package
Sale: $1.67
**Buy 5 Select Mott's, Snapple, Dr. Pepper or 7-Up Products, Get $5 off Instantly
Total: $.67 each wyb 5

More deals to come with the matchups later tonight (gulp - if I say it that means I have to get it done by tonight, right?) For now, check out the ad preview!

Reminder: Get Your Daily Swagbucks!!

2012-01-09T10:51:00.001-05:00

Meijer Matchups: 1/8 - 1/14

2012-01-08T23:26:00.000-05:00

For this week's Meijer matchups, check out Bargains to Bounty! Keep in mind that Jolyn does use the Detroit ad for her matchups. Some of the prices may be slightly different (usually meat and produce prices) from the Kalamazoo ad and the Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids stores do not double coupons.

Starting next week, I will be doing complete matchups for Meijer using the Kalamazoo area ad. Thank you for your patience and understanding during my blogging vacation!!

Meijer Ad Preview: 1/8 - 1/14

2012-01-06T12:36:00.000-05:00

The Meijer Ad Preview for next week is up! Check out the deals, starting Sunday, January 8! I will not be doing my own matchups this week (will provide a link-up) but I will be back at it starting the week of January 15! And I'm looking forward to it - I am finding that I don't like not knowing what's going on!

Coupon Preview: 1/8 - Whoa.....SIX Inserts!!

2012-01-06T08:45:00.000-05:00

Go here to see a preview of the coupons that will be in the paper this Sunday, January 8. It looks like there will be 6 inserts this week: Smartsource, Johnson & Johnson Insert, General Mills, Walmart Coupon, Walmart Insert, and RedPlum.

Looks like some of these inserts will be regional and some of the inserts are small but still....up to 6 inserts! Between the four from last week (did anyone get 5?) and the 6 from this week, we're off to a great start!

Remember that the coupons and their values vary by region. Even though I live in Kalamazoo, I buy the Grand Rapids Press or the Detroit Free Press. There is a HUGE difference between the two papers! Take a peek at the inserts and see what you think!

Also, be sure to check your paper and make sure that the inserts are in there before you buy it!

*Local Readers: I have been buying the Grand Rapids Press for the last few months now. It seems that most weeks, the Detroit Free Press at my local stores does not contain all of the inserts (or any sometimes). From time to time the GR Press will be missing a high value coupon but it has been much more consistent!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support.

$.50/2 Kraft Shredded Cheese, $.75/1 Wet Ones and More!!

2012-01-03T15:25:00.000-05:00

So......I haven't checked Coupons.com in awhile. Goodness, I haven't even touched coupons in awhile for that matter......except to pull out the coupons from this week's paper out of the newspaper! Anyways, I was pleasantly surprised (or thrilled) to see a cheese coupon!! Here are a few of the new coupons I see....

$.50/2 Kraft Shredded Cheese
$.75/1 Barilla Pasta Sauce
$.75/1 Wet Ones
$.50/1 Oscar Mayer Lunchables with Fruit
$.75/1 Muir Glen
$.50/2 Chex Mix
+ lots more great coupons!!!

Head on over to Coupons.com to check them all out!!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

Hobby Lobby: Home Accent Clearance, Christmas Clearance, and a 40 Percent Off Coupon!!

2012-01-01T23:10:00.000-05:00

Hobby Lobby has all Christmas Items on sale for 80% off this week! Things are certainly picked over but there definitely some treasures to be found, especially at 80% off!! Check out the rest of the sale ad to see what else is on sale this week! I plan on picking up some scrapbook paper (50% off) to make chore charts for the girls. You will certainly see the results of this project when I'm finished!

Hobby Lobby has a 40% off one regular price item printable coupon available again! Leading up to Christmas, this coupon is available every week. I anticipate that in the next few weeks it will only be available every other week. Keep this in mind when you are planning any craft projects, etc.

While you're there, you're going to want to check out the Home Accent clearance section - marked down to 66% off!! In my local store, this is located where the Christmas stuff was! This will eventually go down to 80% off but you never know if what you want will still be there!

Meijer Matchups: 1/1 - 1/7

2012-01-01T22:40:00.001-05:00

For this week's matchups at Meijer, check out Give Me Neither!! I will be back to posting highlights in a week or two.

Swagbucks Daily Poll January Challenge!!

2011-12-31T20:42:00.001-05:00

One of my intentions for the new year is to take advantage of all of the little, easy ways to earn. And one of those easy ways to earn.......Swagbucks! So, for the month of January, I will be doing all of those easy extras.........Daily Polls, NOSO, Swagbucks TV and so on. As you can see from my calendar above, it is definitely not something I remember to do on a regular basis. My hope is that being intentional about it every day will turn it into a habit by the end of the month.

Wanna join me? For the month of January, answer the Swagbucks Daily Poll every day. And if you do, you can enter up to 5 times to win a $5 Amazon gift card! Here's how this challenge will work.......

**Answer the Swagbucks Daily Poll every single day in January and you will get 5 entries into this giveaway!
**Miss just 1 or 2 days and you'll get 3 entries.
**Miss 3 or 4 days and you'll get 1 entry.

On February 1, I will post the giveaway and you can add your entries according to how many days you answered the Swagbucks Daily Poll. I will select a winner on February 2 and I will ask the winner to send me a screenshot of his/her Daily Poll calendar (like the one above) via email.

So, who's with me on this challenge?

Coupon Preview: 1/1 - Happy New Year, We Get FIVE Inserts!!

2011-12-30T22:11:00.000-05:00

Go here to see a preview of the coupons that will be in the paper this Sunday, January 1. It looks like there will be 5 inserts this week: (2) Smartsource, P&G, and (2) RedPlum.

Remember that the coupons and their values vary by region. Even though I live in Kalamazoo, I buy the Grand Rapids Press or the Detroit Free Press. There is a HUGE difference between the two papers! Take a peek at the inserts and see what you think!

Also, be sure to check your paper and make sure that the inserts are in there before you buy it!

*Local Readers: I have been buying the Grand Rapids Press for the last few months now. It seems that most weeks, the Detroit Free Press at my local stores does not contain all of the inserts (or any sometimes). From time to time the GR Press will be missing a high value coupon but it has been much more consistent!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support.

A Brief Pause........

2011-12-27T23:16:00.001-05:00

Hard to believe that Christmas has come and gone already! Seems like it's just been a few days and we were decorating the tree, making some "people chow," and doing some fun Christmas crafts! I hope you were all able to spend time with your families and enjoy all that we have been given!

Over the last few days (and weeks), I've been thinking a lot about the direction of this blog. With a part time job and two kiddos that no longer take 2+ hour naps together (that was a painful thing to give up, let.....me.....tell.......you), I'm not able to keep up with the deals. And it's been that way for awhile now. Quite awhile.

But.....I'm not ready to be done yet. I don't feel done. I do, however, feel like I'm being led in a slightly different direction. Away from the minute by minute deals and more towards frugal living.....living (and enjoying life) without spending a lot of money. Ways to save, ways to earn, and ways to go out (or stay in) for less. Something that I hope to focus on in my own life, for my own family, in the coming year. Why not share it with you guys at the same time. I won't be abandoning the deals all together. I'm hoping to stick with Meijer, post any deals/coupons/etc I happen to stumble upon, and link to some other great blogs that are experts in other areas.

I have lots of ideas running around in my head so I plan to take a short break, about 2-3 weeks, to get myself organized and to start planning ahead. I won't be ignoring the blog completely during this break - as things come up, I will be posting on occasion and I do have a challenge/giveaway planned for January. I hope you will stick with me and join me on this new adventure. Thank you for all of your support and patience in the coming weeks!!

$2/1 Pull-Ups Printable Coupon!!

2011-12-27T22:20:00.000-05:00

Just what we need in our house.........a $2/1 Pull-Ups Training Pants printable coupon! Now let's hope for a good sale in the near future!!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

Meijer Matchups: 12/26 - 12/31

2011-12-25T22:40:00.000-05:00

For deals at Meijer this week, check out the matchups over at Give Me Neither!!

Merry Christmas!!

2011-12-25T09:36:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas to all of my wonderful readers! I hope you are able to spend time with your families and enjoy all that we have been given on this day!

Merry Christmas!!

Christmas Tradition: Making Ornaments for the Family!

2011-12-22T23:12:00.000-05:00

When I was just five, my mom started a tradition.......making ornaments for my family - grandparents, aunts, uncles, and family friends! Year after year. These ornaments are now hanging on our family tree. So, I started this tradition with my own kiddos.

Cailynn made wreath and candy cane ornaments with pom poms......

I cut out the wreath and candy cane shape on cardboard and Cailynn glued on the pom-poms. All you need is some scrap cardboard, 1 inch pom-poms, glue, a hole punch, and some string or ribbon. And while she was waiting for them to dry........

Do you make ornaments with your kiddos?

FREE Poise Sample!

2011-12-22T22:45:00.000-05:00

Go here to get a FREE sample of Poise! I wouldn't be surprised to see a coupon along with this freebie!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

$1/1 Honey Bunches of Oats

2011-12-22T22:40:00.000-05:00

Coupons.com has a $1/1 Honey Bunches of Oats printable coupon available! This should be a great coupon to match up with a sale! We're finally starting to see some decent cereal coupons and deals again!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy! Thanks for your support!

Old Navy Groupon is Back

2011-12-21T09:01:00.000-05:00

Get $20 to use at Old Navy for just $10! Save 50% just by using the Groupon. Make it an even better deal by grabbing some great clearance deals!!

The Fine Print:
Expires Jan 28, 2012. Limit 1 per person, may buy 1 addt'l as a gift. Limit 1 Groupon per visit. Purchase of Groupon may take up to 24hrs to process. Valid from 12/22/11-1/28/12 at US Old Navy Stores only. Product restrictions apply. Not transferable. Not valid for cash or cash equivalent. $20 minimum purchase required at Old Navy. Good for $20 of merchandise: $10 Paid For value (never expires) plus $10 Discount

Interested?
*If you are new to Groupon, go here to sign in.
*If you already have an account, login here

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

Swagbucks Collector Bills - How Do You Do?

2011-12-20T20:36:00.000-05:00

Once again, Swagbucks is offering Holiday Collector's Bills! If you "collect" all 5, you will earn a bonus 12 Swagbucks! I won two of them today!!

So, how do you do? Do you usually end up collecting them all when they are offered or do you usually come up short? I always manage to collect them but my husband doesn't - usually one or two shy.

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

$5 Theraflu Rebate + Small Walmart Moneymaker!!

2011-12-20T15:10:00.000-05:00

Right now on Coupons.com, you can print a rebate form to get a $5 gift card to select retailers when you buy Theraflu! Here are the details of the rebate:

Purchase any one (1) size Theraflu Warming Relief Syrup or Caplets (excluding trial size) between 12/19/11 and 3/31/2012 and recieve a $5 gift card by mail. Fine print: Offer cannot be combined with any other offer, coupon or discount card. Gift card choices include CVS, Kroger, Rite Aid, Target, Walgreens, and Walmart.

Right now you can get Theraflu at Walmart for $4.47. Get a $5 gift card back and it turns into a small moneymaker! (Thanks, I Heart the Mart!)

Since we have until 3/31 for this rebate, I would guess that we will see some even bigger moneymakers. Print this rebate form and save it and let's see what moneymakers pop up in the next few months!!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

Meijer: 3 Day Sale - 12/22 - 12/24

2011-12-20T14:47:00.000-05:00

Meijer is having a 3 day sale, starting Thursday, December 22 through Saturday, December 24! It is a general merchandise and apparel sale so no grocery matchups! Check out the ad to see what's on sale!

$2/1 Excedrin Extra Strength Printable

2011-12-20T14:33:00.000-05:00

**Surprised to see that this coupon is still available! Excedrin goes on sale regularly at the drugstores!!**

Head on over to Coupons.com to print a $2/1 Excedrin Extra Strength coupon. I don't have any deals for it right now but I'm sure we will see some great deals (and maybe freebies) at multiple stores within the next few weeks. Be sure to print it now though because it may not be available when a sale pops up!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

Cooking with the Kiddos: Puppy Chow

2011-12-20T14:30:00.000-05:00

Or as Cailynn calls it "People Chow" because " puppies don't eat it, Mommy!"

Ingredients:
9 cups of Rice or Corn Chex
1 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup butter or margarine
1tsp vanilla

powdered sugar

Directions:
*Dump Chex cereal into a large bowl and set aside
*In a microwavable bowl, add choc. chips, peanut butter, and butter and microwave for 1 min. Stir. Microwave for about 30 seconds longer or until the mixture is smooth.

*While the mixture is in the microwave, lick the peanut butter spoons.
*Pull mixture out of the microwave and stir in the vanilla.
*Pour the mixture over the cereal and stir it in so that is spread over the cereal evenly.
*Pour the cereal into a large Ziploc baggie and pour in some powdered sugar. The recipes suggested 1 1/2 cups but I just eyeballed it.
*Zip up the bag and start shaking to get the powdered sugar through all of the cereal. This was our favorite part of course!

*Spread it out on wax paper and let it cool. I did add a little powdered sugar to some of the cereal that didn't get as much.
*Eat and enjoy!

Ok, I think this was their favorite part!!

Craftsy: A Daily Deal Site for Crafting Supplies!!

2011-12-20T13:29:00.000-05:00

If you are crafty (or like to pretend you are), you'll want to check out this new daily deal site......Craftsy! Not only does it have great deals on crafting supplies: organic yarn, lovely fabrics and fat quarters from top designers, high quality needles, and more! It also offers Terrific online classes from amazing instructors for beginning, intermediate and advanced quilters, knitters, crocheters, sewists, jewelry makers, and other crafters. Head on over to Craftsy and check it out!!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!

Restaurant.com: $25 Gift Cards for Just $1!!

2011-12-20T13:15:00.000-05:00

This would make nice stocking stuffers to someone's favorite restaurant!!
Restaurant.com is offering $25 Gift Certificates for as low as $1!! Just enter code JOY at checkout. Most restaurants require you to spend $35 (excluding the usual: alcohol, tip...) so be sure to read the fine print to see what the requirements are. Even with these requirements, it is a great deal! This is the best time to stock up on these gift certificates, especially since they don't expire!

Plus, right now you can get 30% cash back when you shop through Ebates!!

This post contains an affliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!!

Hobby Lobby: 40 Percent Off + Great Deals This Week!!

2011-12-19T19:02:00.000-05:00

Take advantage of this 40% off one regular price item coupon on any last minute gifts or projects you might be doing!!

Be sure to check out this week's ad as well!! Here are a few of my favorites:
*Train Sets, Model Cars, Science Kits & Telescopes ($9.99+), and Estes Rockets are 30% off. There are also a lot of cute stocking stuffers in the Science Kit aisle!!
*The majority of Christmas is 50% off!! Get your wrapping paper, boxes, and bows for half off!!
*Scrapbooking Blow-Out Sale - The Paper Studio and Stampabilities brands are 40% off this week.

Amazon: Last Day for FREE Super Saver Shipping

2011-12-19T14:01:00.000-05:00

Today is the last day for FREE Super Saver Shipping (on orders $25 and up) by Christmas on Amazon! Check out all of the Top Holiday Dealsand see if you can snag any great last minute gifts. Done with your Christmas shopping? Now's a great time to stock up on inexpensive kid gifts for those last minute birthday party invites!

This post contains an affiliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks!

Hardings Matchups: 12/18 - 12/24

2011-12-19T13:24:00.000-05:00

These are not complete matchups so be sure to check your local ad before you head to Hardings to see if there are any other sales that you might want to take advantage of. I will include the very best deals that I find for the week.

Idaho Russet Potatoes, 8lb bag
Sale: $2.49

Pepsi Products, 12pk cans or 8pk bottles
Sale: $3.33 each wyb 3

Smithfield Shank Portion Ham
Sale: $1.19/lb

Country Fresh Ice Cream
Sale: $2.50

7Up Products, 2L
Sale: $.79 each wyb 4

Clementine Tangerines, 5lb box
Sale: $4.99

Sweet Potatoes
Sale: $.69/lb

Not looking like a great week at Hardings this week! Think I will be skipping it!

Aldi Produce Picks of the Week: 12/18 - 12/24

2011-12-19T09:26:00.000-05:00

Here are the produce picks of the week at Aldi:

Pineapple
Sale: $1.39 each

Celery
Sale: $.69 each

Russet Potatoes, 10lb bag
Sale: $1.99/bag

Sweet Potatoes, 3lb bag
Sale: $1.59/bag

Reminder: Get Your Daily Swagbucks!!

2011-12-19T08:55:00.000-05:00

Thinking about signing up? It's a great time to get started earning those Amazon gift cards for Christmas next year!!

Don't forget about those Daily Swagbuck opportunities! Check the No Obligation Special Offers, or NOSO, section and get your Swagbucks for the day! And, when you're done, head over to the Daily Polls section and get an additional Swagbuck! It may be small but if you do them every day, they add up!!

Not sure what Swagbucks is? To find out what it is and how to increase your Swagbucks, check out the Swagbucks 101 series! And if you are interested in signing up, go here!

This post contains an affliliate link. For more information, please read my disclosure policy. Thanks for your support!