To get your $2 2 LB ham with free shipping do this:
Type in 2276CHA in the box under "Order from your Mailing"
Add the Beef Sticks to your cart
Go to your cart and make sure you choose your free gift of a 2 LB ham
Check out!
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Get a 2 LB Ham for only $2!
Right now Omaha Steaks is having a STELLAR deal where you get a 2 LB ham (a $38 value!) with ANY purchase and FREE shipping. Granted, that deal is amazing even if you buy something that's $20, but Omaha Steaks has items as low as $2 on their website! (There have been a lot of rumors floating around that they won't honor this deal, but I just received my confirmation email from them saying my order went through so...we'll see! I will certainly keep you all updated!)
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Free Gift Bags Sample
Sandy Paper specializes in making all of their products from 100% recycled materials. Right now they're offering a free sample of their gift bags to you! Gift bags are WONDERFUL to have on hand "just because", plus its easy to wrap gifts in the car on the way to an event (I've only done it once, lol). Use the link below to sign up for your free sample (1 per household). It does say that the bags will come with Sandy Paper's website printed on them but I'm sure you can cover it up with a sticker or a scrap piece of paper!
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
10 Free Issues of Disney FamilyFun Magazine
Tippr is yet another one of these GREAT deal sites. When you sign up today, you get $5 credit towards your first purchase in ANY amount! Choose from great day trips to local restaurants and other services. Right now you can get 10 issues (Which is one year) of Disney FamilyFun magazine for FREE with your $5 credit just for signing up! Just click on the link below and sign up (do NOT use Facebook login or else you won't get your $5). Then go to New York and pick the deal! Its THAT easy! (It does ask for your credit card information but you will NOT be billed.) Hurry, you only have 6 hours left!
Monday, July 11, 2011
Free 5x7 Soft Cover Photo Book from Snapfish
Snapfish is offering a FREE 5x7 photo book to members just by uploading pictures in a color theme to their website. You will have to upload 7 photos in the corresponding color categories in order to qualify. Now this freebie is going to take some time since they are only allowing you to upload one color-themed photo per week. There's only 2 weeks left after this one so you can get your photo book in August! You can upload past colors no problem. Your photos are also being judged to where you can win one of 20 Custom Cover 8.5 x 11 photo books or even an HP printer! Sign for Snapfish (they are so fantastic with great deals on prints sales and also you can get your prints sent to your local store to save on shipping costs).
Free box of Sugar Substitute
Sweet Purpose Stevia is giving away coupons for FREE boxes (a $10.99 value) of their sugar substitute. Due to their giveaway website not working, you have to email them your name, address, phone number, and email and they will mail you a coupon! Email: customerservice@alconnutrition.com
Free Quaker Cereal
Now this freebie is an awesome one! Quaker on Facebook is giving away one free sample box of their Oatmeal Squares (which I <3!) per family PER DAY. Now this freebie has been going on for quite some time with no hints at it closing anytime soon. I've signed up for at least a dozen boxes (Oh boy...my mail carrier is going to be thrilled with me, lol) and I keep signing up daily when I remember. So head on over, like their Facebook page and sign up for your freebie EVERY day!
Saturday, July 9, 2011
Free Cat Food
My family and I headed to Petco to get some filters for our fish tank and at the checkout line there was a display for a free can of cat food per person. But you know what's even better than a free can of cat food? Helping a cat in need! For every free can of cat food scanned, Petco will donate a can to a shelter to help a homeless cat. We were able to score two, one for each cat! You may have to be a Petco Pals member, but its free and easy to sign up!
Thursday, June 30, 2011
FREE Jewelry Everyday!
I just came across this awesome website which gives you 4 choices of FREE jewelry every 15 minutes or so! Each piece is 100% genuine sterling silver and some even have genuine gemstones as well. Most items are pendants in which the chain is extra. The ONLY catch is that you have to pay $7 for shipping. But hey, who can beat genuine gemstone jewelry for under $10???
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Sample of Shout Wipes
Get your sample of Shout Wipe & Go Wipes! These things look amazing! I carry a Tide To-Go pen around with me all the time but the cap continues to come off in my purse. These handy wipes will surely be a lot easier to use! Hurry and snag your sample today, they're on first come/first serve basis!
Free Sample of Honey Nut Cheerios!
Who doesn't like Cheerios? And to make it even better, you can score a sample of Honey Nut Cheerios for FREE! My little guy loves these and is constantly stealing them from his Grandpop so now he can have his own little box :) Plus it comes with a $.75 off coupon which doubles at some grocery stores!
Send a free card to our Troops for July 4th!
Please take the time to send out a free, personalized card to a member of our military. They sacrifice so much for us Americans and for other people overseas. They really deserve a simple "thank you". I made it out from my family to a troop and I pray that it brings a smile to their face!
Free LED Flashlight!
Head on over to Marlboro.com and pick up your free flashlight. This one isn't as bad as the last freebie from a cigarette company, you can still keep your angel wings by not lying about smoking to get a freebie! The only bummer is that it will take 10-12 weeks, but hey its worth the wait for a freebie!
First Family Vacation!
Well everyone...I'm back after 10 amazing days away with my ENTIRE family at the Jersey Shore. It was just wonderful! It was our first vacation as a true family and we came back with so many magical memories and achievements!
My little guy went on his first trip to the zoo (although he slept through half of it!) but he was quite relaxed watching all of the animals in front of him. It was our first day trip with Grami and Grandpop and we all had a great time!
We went to the Cape May Aviation Museum and boy did he get a kick out of that! (He's going to be his father's son, I swear!) This museum actually lets patrons go into most of the displays to sit and play with the actual controls of airplanes and helicopters. While my hubby was in his glory, my little guy got such delight in sitting in all of the exhibits! He'd squeal, grin, and do a little bounce before playing with the steering mechanisms and buttons.
He also got his first experience with the ocean. First time in he cried and wasn't too sure about the cold water rushing up around his feet (but he was pretty sleepy after a long day in Cape May!). Then on our last night we went down to take some pictures in his sailor outfit and he LOVED the beach and ocean that time! He just sat on the sand and watched the waves come in, it was so sweet! Here are some super cute pics of the photo shoot:
And he had his BIGGEST achievement, he started CRAWLING!!! After playing with his cousins (my cousin's children), he started crawling the next day no problem! He's still a little shaky but over the next week or two he's going to really take off! Oi vey...I guess its time to baby proof the house!!!
My little guy went on his first trip to the zoo (although he slept through half of it!) but he was quite relaxed watching all of the animals in front of him. It was our first day trip with Grami and Grandpop and we all had a great time!
We went to the Cape May Aviation Museum and boy did he get a kick out of that! (He's going to be his father's son, I swear!) This museum actually lets patrons go into most of the displays to sit and play with the actual controls of airplanes and helicopters. While my hubby was in his glory, my little guy got such delight in sitting in all of the exhibits! He'd squeal, grin, and do a little bounce before playing with the steering mechanisms and buttons.
He also got his first experience with the ocean. First time in he cried and wasn't too sure about the cold water rushing up around his feet (but he was pretty sleepy after a long day in Cape May!). Then on our last night we went down to take some pictures in his sailor outfit and he LOVED the beach and ocean that time! He just sat on the sand and watched the waves come in, it was so sweet! Here are some super cute pics of the photo shoot:
And he had his BIGGEST achievement, he started CRAWLING!!! After playing with his cousins (my cousin's children), he started crawling the next day no problem! He's still a little shaky but over the next week or two he's going to really take off! Oi vey...I guess its time to baby proof the house!!!
Monday, June 13, 2011
Free Personalized Card from CardStore.com
Its the last day for this freebie! I scored it last week and it came in just a few days. I picked out a birthday card for my sister-in-law for her birthday in July. You can get a photo card SHIPPED to your recipient for FREE (Crazy Coupon Mommy did this and it worked!). Great for anyone who is a last-minute shopper for Father's Day. They are very pretty cards and excellently made! Use code FREECARD at checkout.
Free Father's Day Coupon Book to Print
This is certainly SO cute! An adorable Father's Day Coupon book to print out as a nice thoughtful (FREE) gift from kids to dad. Plus there are lots of empty pages to add adorable custom coupons! Like an "Extra kiss before bed", "Read to Daddy", "One Colored Picture", etc. The possibilities are endless! Print on some thinner cardstock for a nice look and punch out the holes and thread with ribbon. So sweet :)
Free Guitar Picks and Case
Score an absolutely free set of 5 black guitar picks that come in their very own case! This is such a cool freebie and its going straight to my hubby :)
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Free Adidas Undies or Tees
AWESOME freebie for dads! Score a FREE pack of Adidas tees, boxer briefs, or low rise briefs at an Adidas Outlet (ONLY outlet stores). Luckily me and the hubby live in the middle of outlet HEAVEN with over 4 sets of outlets within 1.5 hours of us. We're headed there tomorrow to get hubby some boxer briefs, but SHHH...! Don't tell him I told you what undies he wears :)
5 FREE Sample Items
This is FANTASTIC! Unionpen.com is a website that offers personalized office and home products for your business. Right now you can request ANY of their items that are $5 and under for FREE! Yes free! This includes mugs, pens, calendars, etc. There are lots of great stuff to use around the house including a lint brush, clip-on calculator (great for couponers!), pencil pouch with supplies (Think back to school!), large rotating head flashlight (Great guy gift!), etc. You can request up to FIVE FREE samples and ZERO shipping (You can even get up to 5 of the same item)!
Friday, June 10, 2011
BOGO Free Bob Evans Side Dish!
Get your coupon for buy one Bob Evans Side Dish and get one free! Pair it with the $.35 off one coupon in the paper (you are even luckier if it doubles!) and get a STELLAR deal! Print out yours today.
FREE Lipton Iced Tea coupon!
This coupon just went viral due to Lipton's malfunction on Facebook. Print two (max per printer)! But be careful, some grocery stores are NOT accepting internet coupons for free items!
Philosophy Coupon...TODAY ONLY
Oh this deal is just TOO tempting!!!
Purchase 3 select 6 oz hair/body washes for only $15!!! These are usually $10 a piece so that's a savings of 50%! They are a FANTASTIC product and I was lucky enough to receive my first Philosophy for my last birthday and I'm totally IN LOVE with this product! It has such a soft perfume scent to it that stays on your skin ALL DAY, no joke! Plus you can even use it as shampoo for awesome hair! This sale is great because then you can try out a whole bunch of scents. You even get FREE shipping on orders over $50. Just use the coupon code: "showergel" at check out :)
Limit 15 per order (That's a lot!!!)
Purchase 3 select 6 oz hair/body washes for only $15!!! These are usually $10 a piece so that's a savings of 50%! They are a FANTASTIC product and I was lucky enough to receive my first Philosophy for my last birthday and I'm totally IN LOVE with this product! It has such a soft perfume scent to it that stays on your skin ALL DAY, no joke! Plus you can even use it as shampoo for awesome hair! This sale is great because then you can try out a whole bunch of scents. You even get FREE shipping on orders over $50. Just use the coupon code: "showergel" at check out :)
Limit 15 per order (That's a lot!!!)
Thursday, June 9, 2011
TWO movie tickets from Fandango for only $9!!!
Yes, you read that correctly! TWO movie tickets for $9! With most matinees even being $6 bucks a pop, this is a stellar deal! What a great deal to go see some of those summer blockbusters! I know me and the hubby are saving it for a date night on the cheap. Once you score this deal its good until September of this year!
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
$5 off ANY Adidas or Nautica Fragrance at Walmart
On Coupons.com there is a $5 off ANY Adidas or Nautica fragrance so you might be able to snag a travel-size for nearly free! Only works at Walmart (But hey, the small bottle of Adidas Moves is only $15 to begin with!). Makes a GREAT Father's Day gift, you still have a week and a half left! (Note: It may be regional so if its not under your zip code, use 17110)
FREE Thank You Cards
Go to Pear Tree Greetings and pick up a super adorable 6 pack of FREE thank you cards! They say they're baby-themed but 4 of the 6 are neutral enough to use everyday! The other two can be for your kids to give out as thank yous. Head on over to score yours for free!
FREE Magic Wallet!
Sign up here for free to score a free Magic Wallet! Only catch is that you HAVE to be 21+ and they do ask for the last four digits of your SS# to authorize you, so there's no cheating! I have to say that this is the first time I've ever been PROUD to lie about something. You do have to choose one of the 4 tobacco products that you *ahem* "use".
Oh the things we do for freebies... :)
https://www.lm.com/lm/login_input.action
Oh the things we do for freebies... :)
https://www.lm.com/lm/login_input.action
$3 off Coupon at Staples
Get $3 off your purchase of $3 or more at Staples. Combine with the $1 of Scotch Tape coupon (On sale this week for $1 at Staples http://dealcrown.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/dealcrownscotchtapecoupon1.pdf) along with $1 off HP ColorLok paper (On coupons.com, use zip code 17110) and you can get one pretty sweet deal!
Get 70% off Restaurant.com Gift Cards!
Head on over to Restaurant.com and pick up some gift cards to treat yourself or save for gifts! (Just PLEASE double-check the website to check out a list of restaurants near you.) I got a $50 gift card mailed to me for ONLY $7.50!!! How awesome is that???
Enter: DINNER
Into the promo code section at checkout. Its as easy as that! I'm getting one for my parents as a "thank you" for letting us spend with week with them at their beach house!
Get Restaurant Gift Cards for 70% off!
Enter: DINNER
Into the promo code section at checkout. Its as easy as that! I'm getting one for my parents as a "thank you" for letting us spend with week with them at their beach house!
Get Restaurant Gift Cards for 70% off!
*This offer is 70% off the retail value of Restaurant.com Gift Certificates. The majority of $25 certificates are available for a $10 retail price. In some instances, prices may be higher. eGift Cards and Gift Cards have separate pricing. Limit of one (1) certificate per visit to a restaurant. There may also be minimum spend requirements.
Its been a while...
I know its been QUITE a while but I hope to be back on here soon with new crafting tutorials, coupon fun, and family stories. Plus now I'm hopefully going to add some awesome deals as I see them come my way! I will post a few today!
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
How to Make a Pea Pod Charm
I absolutely love the pea pod charms that you see a lot on Etsy with the wire wrapping around the pearl "peas" looking like an abstract pod. But I thought it would be cuter if I could actually make a entire pod casing to more closely resemble a traditional pea pod. So here is how I do it (Just in time for Mother's Day!)
Materials:
- 36 gage aluminum tooling foil
- 2" silver head pin
- 2-8 6mm glass pearls (or other round beads)
- Needle-nose pliers
- Scissors
- Thin, stiff piece of cardboard or other material
- Jewelry glue (Not pictured)
Optional:
- Decorative bail (To add a bit more sophistication)
- Paper punch (To make a more uniform piece of foil to work with. Use a punch cuts paper at least 2" in size. An oval shape like this one or a rectangle would probably work the best.)
Materials:
- 36 gage aluminum tooling foil
- 2" silver head pin
- 2-8 6mm glass pearls (or other round beads)
- Needle-nose pliers
- Scissors
- Thin, stiff piece of cardboard or other material
- Jewelry glue (Not pictured)
Optional:
- Decorative bail (To add a bit more sophistication)
- Paper punch (To make a more uniform piece of foil to work with. Use a punch cuts paper at least 2" in size. An oval shape like this one or a rectangle would probably work the best.)
STEP 1:
Thread the pearls onto the head pin (I used pearl colors in the birth months to make this gift for my mom for Mother's Day to represent our family. Using all one color like white or green makes a pretty piece too!). Wrap the remaining part of the head pin around the pliers to form a loop and then wrap the remainder around the "neck" between the loop and the top bead.
STEP 2:
Cut a piece of the tooling foil out with either scissors or a paper punch. Cut a size that's around 2"x3/4" (Longer if you are using more beads). When using an oval, trim the sides down so they are straight and the diameter of the foil is now around 3/4". Then fold the edges in about 1/8" (Use your cardboard to make a sharp and uniform crease. Work on a hard, flat surface is best.) Flatten with a heavy object to the butt end of your tool.
STEP 3:
Cut a center slit down both sides of the foil (It works best to hold the pin of "peas" in the middle while you do this.) Cut far enough down so that the slit ends at the top of each bead side. Make an additional cut 1-2mm to each side (See bottom half of picture). Trim close to the bottom and then bend down the remainder with the butt of your tool (See top half of picture).
STEP 4:
If using an oval or rounded punch, trim off the rounded points so that the top is straight across. If using a rectangular punch or cutting it yourself, skip to STEP 5.
STEP 5:
Add a small bead of jewelers glue to the center of the foil piece. It does not need a lot. Leave a little bit of room on either end of the slits to avoid seepage. Add your beads on the head pin, centered in between the two slits and fold the sides up to encase the beads. Let dry for at least 30 minutes or according to directions on your glue.
STEP 6:
When dry take your pliers and apply gentle pressure to squeeze the foil around each pearl to form the pod and to hold the "peas" in.
STEP 7:
Mold the end pieces around the end pearls with your fingertips.
STEP 8:
Using the tips of your pliers (Or a toothpick), gently curl the edges out towards you to form a little scroll on the ends. Repeat for the 4 sections.
You're finished! You made a wonderful and thoughtful piece of jewelry perfect for any mom or friend on your list.
I'm submitting this to win the title of:
This tutorial is for INDIVIDUAL USE ONLY, not for resale.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Make Paper Out of Dryer Lint
My first craft tutorial! I'm very excited about this one :)
Just click on the link above and it shows you a super easy way to make handmade paper using items you probably already have on hand. This is a GREAT craft idea to do with the little ones to make Mother's and Father's Day cards for someone they love. I remember doing this in my 3-D art class in high school. Its very simple, messy, but most of all fun! You can use any paper you have on hand if you don't have dryer lint available (or just plain don't want to use it!) the same process applies. You will never get the same paper twice!
Mix it Up!:
- You can even add dried flowers, glitter, other color paper, food coloring, anything you can think of to the mix
- You can make the card AND the gift! Just use some cookie cutters on hand (Or go to your local craft store and get them for less than $1 a piece) and make an adorable ornament
- Add flower seeds to the mix (after you blended it) and you can make plantable cards and ornaments. Just plant the paper you made and in a few days, you can see plants growing! This makes a BEAUTIFUL party favor for weddings, bridal showers, and baby showers. Plant some love :)
Friday, April 8, 2011
Coupon Help
Lots of my friends have been asking, "How do you do that??? Can you teach me?" about my coupon experiences and well...I will share my findings!
- I highly recommend getting the Sunday news or asking friends to give you the coupon inserts. Remember, you if you have 5 coupons for an item, you can get 5 items at that price!
- Do sign up with big-name companies whose items you use often. They will usually send you coupons just for signing up with them and will usually give you a free printable coupon when you do. Some will even give you free samples! I just got two free samples of Always pads and 2 $1 off coupons (One for any Always product and one for Always panty liners, so I could stack these!)
- You can stack a store coupon (you can find these in the paper or they print out with your receipt, AKA: "cat or catalina" coupons) with a manufacturer coupon. Some places even let you use more stacked coupons! For example: You have a $.50 off Tropicana Orange Juice, a $.25 off any Tropicana product, plus you have a store coupon for $.75 off Tropicana (Most stores will double coupons up to $1) so after doubling you can save $2.50 off OJ!!!
- Make sure that you sign up for the free grocery savings cards at all of your local stores. When you have a bonus card you get special offers, TONS of savings plus gas points! Also sign up on their websites for their free weekly ad emailed to you so you can plan your shopping trips based on their sales. Because unlike retail stores you CAN use coupons for sale items!
- I look over the grocery store ads for the week and then mark everything I want to buy that's brand-name. Then I look in Diva's coupon database and Coupons.com for what I need. I print out everything I want and take all of the coupons. You never know when there is something you missed!
- I also double check which is a better deal, the brand-name with the coupon or the store-brand. Sometimes its cheaper to get the store-brand even after a brand-name with coupon!
- http://www.coupons.com - They have MOST of the coupons from the Sunday paper and even some that didn't make it. All you have to do is click and print! They refresh coupons every week so keep checking back.
- http://www.weusecoupons.com - They have a Facebook page and its just a big message board full of people with their stellar deals and steals along with a heads up on coupons and local sales.
- http://www.budgetsavvydiva.com/coupons/coupon-database/ - Here you can search for coupons and then click on the blue links to print them out for yourself. You can get an idea of where to find what if there isn't a link posted. Make sure you follow Budget Savvy Diva on Facebook. She's posting a new deal or freebie every hour on the hour!
P.S. Target has COUPONS!!! Scroll down to the bottom of their web page and you'll see a little link that says "coupons". You can use the Target coupons, plus manufactuer coupons at Target for some great savings! Plus Target is a few cents cheaper than Walmart!
Please feel free to email me or comment below if you have any questions :)
- I highly recommend getting the Sunday news or asking friends to give you the coupon inserts. Remember, you if you have 5 coupons for an item, you can get 5 items at that price!
- Do sign up with big-name companies whose items you use often. They will usually send you coupons just for signing up with them and will usually give you a free printable coupon when you do. Some will even give you free samples! I just got two free samples of Always pads and 2 $1 off coupons (One for any Always product and one for Always panty liners, so I could stack these!)
- You can stack a store coupon (you can find these in the paper or they print out with your receipt, AKA: "cat or catalina" coupons) with a manufacturer coupon. Some places even let you use more stacked coupons! For example: You have a $.50 off Tropicana Orange Juice, a $.25 off any Tropicana product, plus you have a store coupon for $.75 off Tropicana (Most stores will double coupons up to $1) so after doubling you can save $2.50 off OJ!!!
- Make sure that you sign up for the free grocery savings cards at all of your local stores. When you have a bonus card you get special offers, TONS of savings plus gas points! Also sign up on their websites for their free weekly ad emailed to you so you can plan your shopping trips based on their sales. Because unlike retail stores you CAN use coupons for sale items!
- I look over the grocery store ads for the week and then mark everything I want to buy that's brand-name. Then I look in Diva's coupon database and Coupons.com for what I need. I print out everything I want and take all of the coupons. You never know when there is something you missed!
- I also double check which is a better deal, the brand-name with the coupon or the store-brand. Sometimes its cheaper to get the store-brand even after a brand-name with coupon!
- http://www.coupons.com - They have MOST of the coupons from the Sunday paper and even some that didn't make it. All you have to do is click and print! They refresh coupons every week so keep checking back.
- http://www.weusecoupons.com - They have a Facebook page and its just a big message board full of people with their stellar deals and steals along with a heads up on coupons and local sales.
- http://www.budgetsavvydiva.com/coupons/coupon-database/ - Here you can search for coupons and then click on the blue links to print them out for yourself. You can get an idea of where to find what if there isn't a link posted. Make sure you follow Budget Savvy Diva on Facebook. She's posting a new deal or freebie every hour on the hour!
P.S. Target has COUPONS!!! Scroll down to the bottom of their web page and you'll see a little link that says "coupons". You can use the Target coupons, plus manufactuer coupons at Target for some great savings! Plus Target is a few cents cheaper than Walmart!
Please feel free to email me or comment below if you have any questions :)
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Couponing Chronicles Part 5
Today was our most epic coupon adventure yet!!!
This week Giant had 4 $1 coupon doublers in their Sunday ad. That means for 4 $1 off coupons you use, you get an extra $1 off each one! So hubby, baby, and I headed out this morning to the grocery store.
Note: Monday-Thursday mornings are by far the best time to grocery shop along with after 8 p.m. on those days (No lines and not very busy). Friday mornings bring out the elderly shoppers and Friday evenings bring out the people wanting to beat the weekend rush. And Saturdays and Sundays are a no-no! But if you HAVE to go on the weekend, Sundays are the best.
Our haul:
- 10 Powerade Zeros (Orig: $10 store card took $.23 off) = $7.70
- Tucks pads (Orig: $5.99 $1 off and $1 coupon doubler) = $3.99
- Trop 50 Apple Juice ( Orig: $2.89 used store coupon) = $1.99
- Deer Park 24 pack of water (Orig: $4.99 used store coupon) = $2.99
- 3 Gerber Organic baby food 2-packs (Orig: $3.27 used $1 off 3 and $1 coupon doubler) = $1.27
- Kraft American Cheese Singles (Orig: $3.65 store card took $.35 off $1 off coupon and $1 coupon doubler) = $1.30
- Always Pantyliners 60 count (Orig: $3.19 used $1 off and $1 coupon doubler) = $1.19
- 9 Similac Senstive Ready to Feed (Orig: $48.51 used $5 off) = $3.51
- Bounty paper towel roll (Orig: $1.99 used $1 off and $1 coupon doubler) = FREE
Total before savings: $84.48
Total savings: $59.55
TOTAL: $25.46
That's a savings of: 70%
Yahoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :D
This week Giant had 4 $1 coupon doublers in their Sunday ad. That means for 4 $1 off coupons you use, you get an extra $1 off each one! So hubby, baby, and I headed out this morning to the grocery store.
Note: Monday-Thursday mornings are by far the best time to grocery shop along with after 8 p.m. on those days (No lines and not very busy). Friday mornings bring out the elderly shoppers and Friday evenings bring out the people wanting to beat the weekend rush. And Saturdays and Sundays are a no-no! But if you HAVE to go on the weekend, Sundays are the best.
Our haul:
- 10 Powerade Zeros (Orig: $10 store card took $.23 off) = $7.70
- Tucks pads (Orig: $5.99 $1 off and $1 coupon doubler) = $3.99
- Trop 50 Apple Juice ( Orig: $2.89 used store coupon) = $1.99
- Deer Park 24 pack of water (Orig: $4.99 used store coupon) = $2.99
- 3 Gerber Organic baby food 2-packs (Orig: $3.27 used $1 off 3 and $1 coupon doubler) = $1.27
- Kraft American Cheese Singles (Orig: $3.65 store card took $.35 off $1 off coupon and $1 coupon doubler) = $1.30
- Always Pantyliners 60 count (Orig: $3.19 used $1 off and $1 coupon doubler) = $1.19
- 9 Similac Senstive Ready to Feed (Orig: $48.51 used $5 off) = $3.51
- Bounty paper towel roll (Orig: $1.99 used $1 off and $1 coupon doubler) = FREE
Total before savings: $84.48
Total savings: $59.55
TOTAL: $25.46
That's a savings of: 70%
Yahoo!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :D
Friday, April 1, 2011
Remembering Our First Peek...
One year ago today me and my hubby got our first peek at the little baby growing inside of me! Now he's a week away from being 5 months! That first magical glimpse of our future baby was so amazing...words just cannot describe it. He was the size of a grape when we first saw him! It just takes my breath away to think of this wonderful blessing that us women get to partake of, growing and giving birth to a baby! My mind just boggles with the thought of him growing from just a few cells into a human being that brings me so much joy! So here is an excerpt from my journal from that day:
"Well, this was quite a milestone week!
First it all started with a rescheduled doctor's appointment on Thursday. I was into the room with the nurse and she informs me and DH that I'll be getting an H1N1 vaccine, pap smear (...yippee...), and...an ULTRASOUND!!! Which we were both hoping for but thought we would have to fight to get one. Nope!
Oh gosh...was it magical! I gripped DH's hand so tight as we saw the little grape flash up on screen. Baby was moving around like crazy and the nurse first took a picture of baby's back as it rolled over mid-picture! We got to hear the heartbeat twice and it was sooooooo wonderful! I can still hear that muffled, rapid little heart beating away at 175 BPM! My eyes got all teary, I could have stayed at that office all day watching our little baby! We got 5 pictures to take home and a clean bill of health so we felt very good about telling our families this past weekend!..."
"Well, this was quite a milestone week!
First it all started with a rescheduled doctor's appointment on Thursday. I was into the room with the nurse and she informs me and DH that I'll be getting an H1N1 vaccine, pap smear (...yippee...), and...an ULTRASOUND!!! Which we were both hoping for but thought we would have to fight to get one. Nope!
Oh gosh...was it magical! I gripped DH's hand so tight as we saw the little grape flash up on screen. Baby was moving around like crazy and the nurse first took a picture of baby's back as it rolled over mid-picture! We got to hear the heartbeat twice and it was sooooooo wonderful! I can still hear that muffled, rapid little heart beating away at 175 BPM! My eyes got all teary, I could have stayed at that office all day watching our little baby! We got 5 pictures to take home and a clean bill of health so we felt very good about telling our families this past weekend!..."
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
Couponing Chronicles Part 4
Ah... Yet another grocery shopping adventure with coupons! I had a whole bunch that needed used up before March 31 so I loaded up my hubby and my baby and off we went to the local grocery store. I was VERY excited because this was my first trip actually stacking coupons and I couldn't wait to try it out to see what the savings would be!
My favorite coupon deal was going to be the store coupon for $3.50 off Gillette Men's Deodorant (Retail is $3.99) and buy one Gillette Men's Deodorant and get a Gillette Men's Body Wash FREE. So instead of spending $8 on a body wash and deodorant, I ONLY SPENT $.49! WOOO!!! I also had a $1 off Old Spice deodorant and a buy one deodorant and get a body wash free. So instead of paying $6.88 for a deodorant and body wash I ONLY SPENT $2.69! Lets us say that hubby has enough deodorant and body wash to last him a while! :)
My other favorite coupons were for the Gerber 1st Foods. I had $.55 off one and $1 off when you buy 4. Well they're only $.95 to begin with so instead of spending $3.80 I ONLY SPENT $1.80 (Our store doubles coupons up to $1)!
I signed up to get information on Happy Baby products and in turn they sent me a coupon to get one item FREE up to $3.99! So I bought the most expensive thing allowed which was organic oatmeal. Instead of spending $3.99 I ONLY SPENT $0!!! Its really worth signing up for coupons with manufacturers. They usually have great coupons right from the source!
So at the end of the day:
TOTAL BEFORE SAVINGS: $74.43
BONUSCARD SAVINGS: $4.70
COUPON SAVINGS: $25.13
GRAND TOTAL (After tax): $46.64!!!
THAT WAS A TOTAL SAVINGS OF $29.83!!!!!!
Do you see how much we've saved JUST THIS YEAR for using our store's Bonuscard? Amazing!!!
How do I find such great coupons? Well my mom has so kindly donated her weekly Sunday newspaper which is by far the greatest place to find the most coupons to clip. Ask neighbors, friends, family to save their coupon ads for you and you can use one coupon per item (Although some places let you use one coupon for multiple items. Check with your local store for their coupon policies!).
My favorite deal-seeking websites:
http://www.coupons.com - This has a lot of the Sunday coupons but also has a great compilation of internet-only coupons in one place. All you do is check mark the box next to the coupon you want and it will print them all at once when you're done coupon "shopping"!
http://www.budgetsavvydiva.com - This woman is absolutely amazing! She updates her site/Facebook page every hour on the hour with amazing deals that she finds across the internet and circulars. I highly recommend "liking" her on Facebook since she updates whenever she finds a great deal. I've found a lot of my free trial coupons through her!
http://www.weusecoupons.com - This is a forum of avid and newbie couponers who share their shopping trips and the best coupons they can find. "Like" them on Facebook and they update your page with new and hot entries by fellow couponers to know when the latest deal is going down. I LOVE this site because they actually have a lot of local grocery store shoppers on there so I can find the latest deals and steals at my local grocery store :)
My favorite coupon deal was going to be the store coupon for $3.50 off Gillette Men's Deodorant (Retail is $3.99) and buy one Gillette Men's Deodorant and get a Gillette Men's Body Wash FREE. So instead of spending $8 on a body wash and deodorant, I ONLY SPENT $.49! WOOO!!! I also had a $1 off Old Spice deodorant and a buy one deodorant and get a body wash free. So instead of paying $6.88 for a deodorant and body wash I ONLY SPENT $2.69! Lets us say that hubby has enough deodorant and body wash to last him a while! :)
My other favorite coupons were for the Gerber 1st Foods. I had $.55 off one and $1 off when you buy 4. Well they're only $.95 to begin with so instead of spending $3.80 I ONLY SPENT $1.80 (Our store doubles coupons up to $1)!
I signed up to get information on Happy Baby products and in turn they sent me a coupon to get one item FREE up to $3.99! So I bought the most expensive thing allowed which was organic oatmeal. Instead of spending $3.99 I ONLY SPENT $0!!! Its really worth signing up for coupons with manufacturers. They usually have great coupons right from the source!
So at the end of the day:
TOTAL BEFORE SAVINGS: $74.43
BONUSCARD SAVINGS: $4.70
COUPON SAVINGS: $25.13
GRAND TOTAL (After tax): $46.64!!!
THAT WAS A TOTAL SAVINGS OF $29.83!!!!!!
Do you see how much we've saved JUST THIS YEAR for using our store's Bonuscard? Amazing!!!
How do I find such great coupons? Well my mom has so kindly donated her weekly Sunday newspaper which is by far the greatest place to find the most coupons to clip. Ask neighbors, friends, family to save their coupon ads for you and you can use one coupon per item (Although some places let you use one coupon for multiple items. Check with your local store for their coupon policies!).
My favorite deal-seeking websites:
http://www.coupons.com - This has a lot of the Sunday coupons but also has a great compilation of internet-only coupons in one place. All you do is check mark the box next to the coupon you want and it will print them all at once when you're done coupon "shopping"!
http://www.budgetsavvydiva.com - This woman is absolutely amazing! She updates her site/Facebook page every hour on the hour with amazing deals that she finds across the internet and circulars. I highly recommend "liking" her on Facebook since she updates whenever she finds a great deal. I've found a lot of my free trial coupons through her!
http://www.weusecoupons.com - This is a forum of avid and newbie couponers who share their shopping trips and the best coupons they can find. "Like" them on Facebook and they update your page with new and hot entries by fellow couponers to know when the latest deal is going down. I LOVE this site because they actually have a lot of local grocery store shoppers on there so I can find the latest deals and steals at my local grocery store :)
Sunday, March 27, 2011
Introducing Solids
One week ago today my husband and I decided that we would give our little guy his first taste of solid food. I was a little worried. One for the fact that its just yet another wonderful achievement in the process of growing up (-sniffle-) and two for the fact that we never really introduced the concept of a spoon to him! But he's been eating more and more formula at shorter intervals in between feedings and our pediatrician thought it would be a good idea to start solids soon. So we stocked up on some oatmeal and decided to start the next week.
And here we are after his first week...and I got to say...he's loved it! We started out with really runny oatmeal (Oh my goodness was that a mess...!) and after a little fussing he settled down into his highchair and ate EVERY bite! Since then I've made it more thick and it certainly has cut down on the messes.
I am very impressed with how well he's taking the spoon feedings. Just a few days after starting him on solids he now knows that the spoon means food! Once he sees the spoon he opens his mouth ready for the next yummy bite (So cute!). Then he chomps down on it and goes "Mmmmm..." (Even cuter!) or well what sounds like "Mmm..." :) But I do have to be quick with that spoon or else he gets mad that he's not getting food fast enough! And if I linger too long by his mouth, he'll grab the spoon and try to feed himself! Then it just ends up in a mommy/baby battle for the spoon where I win but, I get the spoils of oatmeal flung on me.
My husband just went out yesterday and stocked up on a whole bunch of baby food. I think we may start introducing the new foods in another week for at least 3 days at a time to see if he has any allergies. Hopefully he doesn't! (I had an allergy to cranberries when I was little and haven't eaten them since!)
And here we are after his first week...and I got to say...he's loved it! We started out with really runny oatmeal (Oh my goodness was that a mess...!) and after a little fussing he settled down into his highchair and ate EVERY bite! Since then I've made it more thick and it certainly has cut down on the messes.
I am very impressed with how well he's taking the spoon feedings. Just a few days after starting him on solids he now knows that the spoon means food! Once he sees the spoon he opens his mouth ready for the next yummy bite (So cute!). Then he chomps down on it and goes "Mmmmm..." (Even cuter!) or well what sounds like "Mmm..." :) But I do have to be quick with that spoon or else he gets mad that he's not getting food fast enough! And if I linger too long by his mouth, he'll grab the spoon and try to feed himself! Then it just ends up in a mommy/baby battle for the spoon where I win but, I get the spoils of oatmeal flung on me.
My husband just went out yesterday and stocked up on a whole bunch of baby food. I think we may start introducing the new foods in another week for at least 3 days at a time to see if he has any allergies. Hopefully he doesn't! (I had an allergy to cranberries when I was little and haven't eaten them since!)
Free Giveaway!!!
Hello everyone in the blogger world! I am so VERY excited to share with you some awesome FREE giveaways going on now on my Facebook page!!! Please read the rules and you can enter to win some fabulous prizes to help you on your shopping sprees :) I want to highlight all of the wonderful entries from some really talented moms that I know. Please check them out and let them know that I sent you :)
Enter here: 300 Fans November Mommies Giveaway
FAITH'S CANDLE
FB :http://www.facebook.com/pages/Faiths-Can
Etsy : http://www.faithscandle.etsy.com/
Hand makes Soy Wax candles with excellent scent throw. Soy wax burns longer and smells stronger than your normal paraffin wax candles. They make any room smell great! She offer 6 oz-16 oz jar candles with even more coming soon! Her candles start at just $4!
WEAVING WOMAN
FB: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Weaving-Wo
Etsy: http://www.weavingwoman.etsy.com/
"Primary Flowers": Using the flowers weave and basic primary colors, these earrings are lightweight and cute. Nice for wearing anytime. The earrings hang from black ear wires and measure about 2 inches. This item is valued at $5 (plus free shipping!)
CATZRULEZ CLOCKS
FB: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Catzrulez-
Etsy: http://www.catzrules.etsy.com/
She can make a clock of just about anything, custom orders are her specialty! Looking for something a bit different that no one else will have, let her know what you're looking for and she'll work with you to create the perfect clock for you or a loved one! She can even match bedding sets/room decor!
NIKYCOLE SHOP
FB: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1
Etsy: http://www.nikycoleshop.etsy.com/
Blog: http://lifeinthethriftylane.blogspot.com
FREE SHIPPING ON YOUR ORDER
In her shop you will find hand made magnetic tie backs for curtains, hair clip holders, and much more. She's constantly creating new items so keep checking back at her Etsy shop!
FLUFFY TOT
FB: www.facebook.com/fluffytot
Etsy:www.fluffytot.etsy.com
Fluffy Tot is giving away a free pacifier clip for your little one (in the color shown)! Made of 100% cotton flannel with a certified lead-free metal clip on one end and a ribbon loop on the other to attach to your little one's favorite pacifier. The clip has plastic inside to protect clothing, but is very strong and won't be pulled off easily. Just put the ribbon through the "handle" on the pacifier and then thread the clip through the loop of ribbon.
Fluffy Tot is a shop full of handmade gifts for baby and kids including bibs, burp cloths, cloth wipes, pacifier clips, hot and cold therapy packs, and coming soon bean bags! Please visit today to check everything out!
*Winner to pay $2 s/h
Enter here: 300 Fans November Mommies Giveaway
FAITH'S CANDLE
FB :http://www.facebook.com/pages/Faiths-Can
Etsy : http://www.faithscandle.etsy.com/
Hand makes Soy Wax candles with excellent scent throw. Soy wax burns longer and smells stronger than your normal paraffin wax candles. They make any room smell great! She offer 6 oz-16 oz jar candles with even more coming soon! Her candles start at just $4!
WEAVING WOMAN
FB: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Weaving-WoEtsy: http://www.weavingwoman.etsy.com/
"Primary Flowers": Using the flowers weave and basic primary colors, these earrings are lightweight and cute. Nice for wearing anytime. The earrings hang from black ear wires and measure about 2 inches. This item is valued at $5 (plus free shipping!)
CATZRULEZ CLOCKS
FB: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Catzrulez-
Etsy: http://www.catzrules.etsy.com/
She can make a clock of just about anything, custom orders are her specialty! Looking for something a bit different that no one else will have, let her know what you're looking for and she'll work with you to create the perfect clock for you or a loved one! She can even match bedding sets/room decor!
NIKYCOLE SHOP
FB: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1
Etsy: http://www.nikycoleshop.etsy.com/
Blog: http://lifeinthethriftylane.blogspot.com
FREE SHIPPING ON YOUR ORDER
In her shop you will find hand made magnetic tie backs for curtains, hair clip holders, and much more. She's constantly creating new items so keep checking back at her Etsy shop!
FLUFFY TOT
FB: www.facebook.com/fluffytot
Etsy:www.fluffytot.etsy.com
Fluffy Tot is giving away a free pacifier clip for your little one (in the color shown)! Made of 100% cotton flannel with a certified lead-free metal clip on one end and a ribbon loop on the other to attach to your little one's favorite pacifier. The clip has plastic inside to protect clothing, but is very strong and won't be pulled off easily. Just put the ribbon through the "handle" on the pacifier and then thread the clip through the loop of ribbon.
Fluffy Tot is a shop full of handmade gifts for baby and kids including bibs, burp cloths, cloth wipes, pacifier clips, hot and cold therapy packs, and coming soon bean bags! Please visit today to check everything out!
*Winner to pay $2 s/h
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Holy Wowsers...
I have been quite the busy bee! And the fun hasn't even come into full swing yet! I've donated quite a few of my personalized jewelry pieces to various Facebook giveaways and I've gotten almost 200 (Yes I said 200!!!) new and wonderful fans out of it! And that's just from two giveaways! PHEW!
Here is a list of the FREE giveaways that you are more than welcome to participate in:
Lovely Little Ladies Boutique on Facebook (Giving away a Large Personalized Charm) - http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=205016122859969&set=a.203252416369673.59944.155019914526257&theater
Lily's Frillies on Facebook (Giving away a Large Personalized Charm) - http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=193335644038771&set=a.193332130705789.43134.122301761142160&theater
Budget Savvy Diva on Facebook (Giving away a Small Personalized Charm) - http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=191100400927607&set=a.191084030929244.39835.104455762925405&theater
I think after those three I'm going to take it easy for a while and then be on the look out later for a few giveaways/auctions. I need to get cracking on this big order for a big name deal-of-the-day website! I can't wait to finish that and send it off!!! But I'm still waiting on the necklace part of it to get here, I have all of the other supplies. They just need to be stamped and assembled.
Thank you to all of my new fans and to the new visitors of my blog!!!
Here is a list of the FREE giveaways that you are more than welcome to participate in:
Lovely Little Ladies Boutique on Facebook (Giving away a Large Personalized Charm) - http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=205016122859969&set=a.203252416369673.59944.155019914526257&theater
Lily's Frillies on Facebook (Giving away a Large Personalized Charm) - http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=193335644038771&set=a.193332130705789.43134.122301761142160&theater
Budget Savvy Diva on Facebook (Giving away a Small Personalized Charm) - http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=191100400927607&set=a.191084030929244.39835.104455762925405&theater
I think after those three I'm going to take it easy for a while and then be on the look out later for a few giveaways/auctions. I need to get cracking on this big order for a big name deal-of-the-day website! I can't wait to finish that and send it off!!! But I'm still waiting on the necklace part of it to get here, I have all of the other supplies. They just need to be stamped and assembled.
Thank you to all of my new fans and to the new visitors of my blog!!!
Monday, March 21, 2011
Auction/Giveaway!
Hello all! I just wanted to pass along this exciting news. I entered some of my jewelry into Purrs~N~Grrrs Facebook page's "500 Fans Giveaway/Auction"! You can check it out with the links below and enter to win and also bid (who knows, you may get a great deal!). Just make sure that you "like" her page, enter your email address (and bid if applicable), and "like" my own Facebook page (link is in the listing). Its that easy!
Personalized Pea Pod Necklace Auction:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=149661678430997&set=a.149200288477136.32818.138678239529341&theater
Personalized Small Charm Giveaway:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=149661178431047&set=a.149199695143862.32817.138678239529341&theater
Also...STAY TUNED because I sent some of my items to websites that do reviews and giveaways and I will list them here too! I also have EVER BIGGER news that I'm SO SUPER EXCITED about! I'll update my *ahem* 4 readers when I get it done :)
Personalized Pea Pod Necklace Auction:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=149661678430997&set=a.149200288477136.32818.138678239529341&theater
Personalized Small Charm Giveaway:
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=149661178431047&set=a.149199695143862.32817.138678239529341&theater
Also...STAY TUNED because I sent some of my items to websites that do reviews and giveaways and I will list them here too! I also have EVER BIGGER news that I'm SO SUPER EXCITED about! I'll update my *ahem* 4 readers when I get it done :)
Friday, March 18, 2011
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Erin go bragh!
This week has been quite the busy one! Although I've had a little more down time than usual, so used it in the best way... I was lazy! I haven't used that word since waaaaaay before my little guy was born.
Our little guy had his 4 month doctor's appointment on Tuesday and did very well. He didn't pee on the nurse this time, hehehe... But I'm really noticing his fear of people he doesn't know getting to close to him. He starts to cry when they get inside of his "bubble". This includes both sets of our parents! Breaks my heart... He now weighs 15 lbs, 8 oz and is 25.25 inches long! Just about doubled his birth weight. He did very well with his shots, of course he cried when he got stuck but as soon as mommy picked him up, he was so much better. He also didn't get the little fever and fussiness like he had last time, knock on wood. My little guy is quite the trooper!
Ah...the wonderful spring weather is finally making its appearance in Pennsylvania! It was so beautiful in the high 50s yesterday and its supposed to hit 70 today! Me and my little guy are going to lay out a blanket and have fun playing outside for a while today. I even might drag out his exersaucer so mommy can garden a bit! I went out yesterday and got pansies to add a bit of color to my front flower bed. I really just want to tear apart the flower beds. The two former owners over the past 15 years made such a haphazard way of things, ergh... There are bulbs poking out everywhere! I already re-arranged the bushes in the flower bed closest to the house last year, how those were arranged gave me a headache. I just hope little man will let me get most of it done!
Enjoy the nice weather folks!!!
This week has been quite the busy one! Although I've had a little more down time than usual, so used it in the best way... I was lazy! I haven't used that word since waaaaaay before my little guy was born.
Our little guy had his 4 month doctor's appointment on Tuesday and did very well. He didn't pee on the nurse this time, hehehe... But I'm really noticing his fear of people he doesn't know getting to close to him. He starts to cry when they get inside of his "bubble". This includes both sets of our parents! Breaks my heart... He now weighs 15 lbs, 8 oz and is 25.25 inches long! Just about doubled his birth weight. He did very well with his shots, of course he cried when he got stuck but as soon as mommy picked him up, he was so much better. He also didn't get the little fever and fussiness like he had last time, knock on wood. My little guy is quite the trooper!
Ah...the wonderful spring weather is finally making its appearance in Pennsylvania! It was so beautiful in the high 50s yesterday and its supposed to hit 70 today! Me and my little guy are going to lay out a blanket and have fun playing outside for a while today. I even might drag out his exersaucer so mommy can garden a bit! I went out yesterday and got pansies to add a bit of color to my front flower bed. I really just want to tear apart the flower beds. The two former owners over the past 15 years made such a haphazard way of things, ergh... There are bulbs poking out everywhere! I already re-arranged the bushes in the flower bed closest to the house last year, how those were arranged gave me a headache. I just hope little man will let me get most of it done!
Enjoy the nice weather folks!!!
Monday, March 14, 2011
Couponing Chronicles Part 3
I know it has been quite a few days since I posted a new blog, but it certainly has been quite the busy weekend! I think I'm still exhausted from my latest coupon adventure and taking my little guy along for the ride.
So our local grocery store, Weis sent me this AWESOME flyer a few weeks ago about their "Price Freeze" campaign that's once again going on. It contained 4 weeks worth of coupons. The first was $5 off your order of $50 or more and then 3 coupons for FREE items. This past week it was a free 2-liter Pepsi product, free Celeste personal pizza, and a free carton of Weis brand ice cream. Now Weis normally isn't my first choice to grocery shop since now I know for sure that Giant prices are far better, but I couldn't pass up free items! So I printed a few other coupons, grabbed some formula checks, and headed out.
My goal was no more than $50 for groceries so here's what I got (Now don't judge my nutritional value of my list, it was just an odds and ends trip):
- Potato Chips
- Hot Dog rolls
- Bread
- Personal pizza
- Frozen dinners (2)
- Butter
- Ice cream
- Bulk frozen french fries
- Rice-A-Roni
- Noodle-A-Roni
- Brownie mix
- Instant rice
- RTF Similac formula (2)
- Gerber Good Start formula
- Iced tea mix
- Diapers
- Diet Pepsi
Total before discounts: $59.40
Total after store specials: $57.12
Total after formula checks: $46.87
Coupon savings: $11.50
Weis Club Savings (including the special FREE coupons): $12.27
Total after coupons: $25.38
Oh yes, you've read that correctly. I saved 40% off my grocery order just from coupons!!! And here is my list just in case you don't believe me:
It really PAYS to coupon!!!
So our local grocery store, Weis sent me this AWESOME flyer a few weeks ago about their "Price Freeze" campaign that's once again going on. It contained 4 weeks worth of coupons. The first was $5 off your order of $50 or more and then 3 coupons for FREE items. This past week it was a free 2-liter Pepsi product, free Celeste personal pizza, and a free carton of Weis brand ice cream. Now Weis normally isn't my first choice to grocery shop since now I know for sure that Giant prices are far better, but I couldn't pass up free items! So I printed a few other coupons, grabbed some formula checks, and headed out.
My goal was no more than $50 for groceries so here's what I got (Now don't judge my nutritional value of my list, it was just an odds and ends trip):
- Potato Chips
- Hot Dog rolls
- Bread
- Personal pizza
- Frozen dinners (2)
- Butter
- Ice cream
- Bulk frozen french fries
- Rice-A-Roni
- Noodle-A-Roni
- Brownie mix
- Instant rice
- RTF Similac formula (2)
- Gerber Good Start formula
- Iced tea mix
- Diapers
- Diet Pepsi
Total before discounts: $59.40
Total after store specials: $57.12
Total after formula checks: $46.87
Coupon savings: $11.50
Weis Club Savings (including the special FREE coupons): $12.27
Total after coupons: $25.38
Oh yes, you've read that correctly. I saved 40% off my grocery order just from coupons!!! And here is my list just in case you don't believe me:
It really PAYS to coupon!!!
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
4 Months Old
On Sunday my adorable little guy turned 4 months old! I can't believe its been 4 months already. Well...half of me can and half of me can't. I sure don't miss those sleepless nights with a newborn! I mean some days it feels like it was just last week that I had him and other days it feels like a whole year has gone by. It just the hardest thing to explain but that's really what it feels like. But its magical nonetheless.
Its amazing how much he's grown! This past month he's accomplished so much and had one heck of a growth spurt! He finally rolled over of his own free will (he rolled from his back to his tummy at 2 weeks but that time he was just really mad about bath time!) and continues to do it every so often when he goes on his play mat. His head control is even better than before. When he's on his tummy he'll sit there on his arms with his head high in the air just looking around. He's even been trying to crawl!!! He has the leg motions down, but hasn't quite figured out the arms. His legs are SO incredibly strong that he can scoot himself in circles and across the floor while on his back! He can also stand up by himself from a crouch (we just have our hands there to catch him since he hasn't worked on the balance thing yet, lol) and stand for a few moments before he wiggles to another position.
He also LOVES toys! My parents got him an exersaucer (Which I really think helps him gain leg strength) and its just chock full of toys, but I add on a few of his favorites! He loves to explore all of the toys and plays with each one in turn. He can push buttons and spin things and even flip pages in the book that's on there. Of course he's always putting things in his mouth and chewing on them, but he loves it! My favorite is that he's actually grabbing for toys to play with if you offer them to him. Its so adorable!
His depth perception must be getting better because he can grab things a little more easily now unlike before when he was flailing about and would just happen to grab on to one. His newest thing yesterday is putting his hand on my face and moving it around. The way his eyes study what his hand is doing is just amazing. I wish I could be in that little head of his to see what he's thinking as he does what he does.
Here's a picture of my 4-month-old little guy:
Such a cutie! And I'm so in <3
Its amazing how much he's grown! This past month he's accomplished so much and had one heck of a growth spurt! He finally rolled over of his own free will (he rolled from his back to his tummy at 2 weeks but that time he was just really mad about bath time!) and continues to do it every so often when he goes on his play mat. His head control is even better than before. When he's on his tummy he'll sit there on his arms with his head high in the air just looking around. He's even been trying to crawl!!! He has the leg motions down, but hasn't quite figured out the arms. His legs are SO incredibly strong that he can scoot himself in circles and across the floor while on his back! He can also stand up by himself from a crouch (we just have our hands there to catch him since he hasn't worked on the balance thing yet, lol) and stand for a few moments before he wiggles to another position.
He also LOVES toys! My parents got him an exersaucer (Which I really think helps him gain leg strength) and its just chock full of toys, but I add on a few of his favorites! He loves to explore all of the toys and plays with each one in turn. He can push buttons and spin things and even flip pages in the book that's on there. Of course he's always putting things in his mouth and chewing on them, but he loves it! My favorite is that he's actually grabbing for toys to play with if you offer them to him. Its so adorable!
His depth perception must be getting better because he can grab things a little more easily now unlike before when he was flailing about and would just happen to grab on to one. His newest thing yesterday is putting his hand on my face and moving it around. The way his eyes study what his hand is doing is just amazing. I wish I could be in that little head of his to see what he's thinking as he does what he does.
Here's a picture of my 4-month-old little guy:
Such a cutie! And I'm so in <3
Monday, March 7, 2011
Designing Diva
On Saturday I had to work and I was chatting with one of my friends from work about her upcoming "new bedroom" project that she wants to tackle this summer and it really got me to thinking that I really MISS doing interior design work. I went to the Art Institute and I have my degree in Interior Design but unfortunately due to where I live, design firms are in VERY short supply. Plus most people hear "interior design" and automatically think "big bucks"! But with me, that is NOT the case! I've been toying with this idea for years, ever since I entered college but I just never found the balls to get it up and running. But now with my Etsy shop being so much fun I'm thinking...maybe I could do this!
I would offer more reasonable prices for services than the typical designer would (AKA: $50-$100 a hour!!!) and I would be much more creative with budgets and do my very best to NOT go over the budget!
I'm thinking that I would offer 2-3 options:
1. A one-time consultation where I would discuss with the client what they are looking to do and what should be done. I would do on-site sketches and brainstorming to get the client going in the right direction and the encouragement they need to get started. It would be a one-time-only fee of $100 for up to 4 hours (If they did want further appointments I'm thinking I would do $50 for up to two hours after that).
2. An initial appointment ($50 per room for up to 2 hours) to do one room where I interview the client and what they are looking for. Then it would be $10 an hour after that while I do research to find the best deals with what they are looking for (works best if they want an entire overhaul) and then return with a portfolio and design board of a design based on their wants.
3. Working per hour to do design work (see above) and physical labor ($15-20) in their home.
These are just initial ideas of stuff to go on at the moment. I really need to work out a concrete business plan with prices, etc. I'm getting kind of excited with the idea but also a little apprehensive since I work in retail on the weekends and that's guaranteed $10/hour work. Not quite sure how I'll juggle a design business, retail work, and an Etsy shop!
Any thoughts would be appreciated!
I would offer more reasonable prices for services than the typical designer would (AKA: $50-$100 a hour!!!) and I would be much more creative with budgets and do my very best to NOT go over the budget!
I'm thinking that I would offer 2-3 options:
1. A one-time consultation where I would discuss with the client what they are looking to do and what should be done. I would do on-site sketches and brainstorming to get the client going in the right direction and the encouragement they need to get started. It would be a one-time-only fee of $100 for up to 4 hours (If they did want further appointments I'm thinking I would do $50 for up to two hours after that).
2. An initial appointment ($50 per room for up to 2 hours) to do one room where I interview the client and what they are looking for. Then it would be $10 an hour after that while I do research to find the best deals with what they are looking for (works best if they want an entire overhaul) and then return with a portfolio and design board of a design based on their wants.
3. Working per hour to do design work (see above) and physical labor ($15-20) in their home.
These are just initial ideas of stuff to go on at the moment. I really need to work out a concrete business plan with prices, etc. I'm getting kind of excited with the idea but also a little apprehensive since I work in retail on the weekends and that's guaranteed $10/hour work. Not quite sure how I'll juggle a design business, retail work, and an Etsy shop!
Any thoughts would be appreciated!
Friday, March 4, 2011
100 Fans!
I am pleased to announce that two days ago my Facebook fan page for my Etsy site reached 100 fans! I'm so very excited! It was a rough few days to get over that hump of 50 but I had a lot of my Etsy friends spreading the word about my shop and here we are today, at 107! I love logging on each morning and see that little fan ticker grow and grow.
Now I can only hope that this will spread the name of my shop and what I can do to far off places that my all of my friends and family couldn't reach. It would be a truly wonderful thing if this helps get my Etsy shop moving even faster. I mean I truly LOVE what I do for my Etsy shop and also the fact that I get to stay home with my little guy and get paid for doing what I love. Its an amazing feeling!
My favorite item right now are these Personalized Charms. My version is about 50% cheaper than all of the other sellers out there. I just get out my metal stamps and stamp away at the silver-plated charms. It helps get some frustration out, LOL! Plus they turn out SO pretty in the end and are a wonderful gift to a friend or mom.
You can get the "Olivia" charm for free just by referring 10 people to "like" my Facebook page!: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Iwancio-Design/164189086961451
Now I can only hope that this will spread the name of my shop and what I can do to far off places that my all of my friends and family couldn't reach. It would be a truly wonderful thing if this helps get my Etsy shop moving even faster. I mean I truly LOVE what I do for my Etsy shop and also the fact that I get to stay home with my little guy and get paid for doing what I love. Its an amazing feeling!
My favorite item right now are these Personalized Charms. My version is about 50% cheaper than all of the other sellers out there. I just get out my metal stamps and stamp away at the silver-plated charms. It helps get some frustration out, LOL! Plus they turn out SO pretty in the end and are a wonderful gift to a friend or mom.
You can get the "Olivia" charm for free just by referring 10 people to "like" my Facebook page!: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Iwancio-Design/164189086961451
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