Coupon Slump

This mama's in a coupon slump right now-distracted by Christmas, and my niece's wedding-I'm going to try to get back in the game after the new year.

For now, check out these great posts about some awesome deals!

Coupon Cravings: Free (after Register Rewards) Hair Dryer- http://www.couponcravings.com/2008/12/walgreens-free-hair-dryer-monday-only.html

Money Saving Mom: CVS Deals of the Week=
http://www.moneysavingmom.com/money_saving_mom/2008/12/cvs-deals-for-the-week-of-december-2127-2008.html

Common Sense with Money: Walgreens Deals of the Week-
http://www.commonsensewithmoney.com/2008/12/best-of-walgreens-1221-1227.html

Happy Shopping!

Free Movie Monday, Redbox Code 12/08/08

Looking for some free entertainment tonight?

Head on over to your local redbox.

Today's code is: 23MJT7.

Thanks to Deal Seeking Mom for the info, head on over to her site to check out great deals, and even more redbox codes--good for Sundays this month!

http://www.dealseekingmom.com/free-rental-from-redbox-and-elevenmoms/

Frugal Friday, Freebies

Frugal Friday

What makes my Friday Frugal today? Simple. Freebies.

My hubby is getting on an airplane today to go to the funeral--the dad of one of our dear friends passed away this week.

As I was helping him prepare for the trip--I went to my modest stockpile closet, and found:

free deodorant? check

free toothpaste? check

free toothbrush? check

free shampoo samples? check

free conditioner samples? check

Most of the freebies were obtained through the drugstore "game." Want to learn to play?

Check out tutorials here:

Mommy Snacks
http://www.mommysnacks.blogspot.com/2008/02/cvs-top-5-tips-to-playing-cvs.html

Money Saving Mom
http://www.moneysavingmom.com/money_saving_mom/2008/03/cvs-101.html

The shampoo and conditioner samples? Through Walmart's freebies! (these rotate every week)

http://walmart.triaddigital.com/In-Stores-Now-Free-Samples-And-Trials.aspx

Want more Freebies?

Check out this site:

http://freebies4mom.blogspot.com/

Join in the Frugal Fun at http://www.biblicalwomanhood.com/!

Rebel With a Cause

Have you heard? About Rebel FOR a Cause?

It's a Raffle-way going on over at My Charming Kids. I heard about this through No Hands but Ours--one of the great beneficiaries of this raffle-way!

Please head on over and check it out!

http://www.mycharmingkids.net/2008/12/rebel-without-for-cause-raffle-way.html

Need Christmas Cards?

Well, I'm back....I ate too much turkey, my Christmas Cash fund has much less cash in it....but Thanksgiving was incredible--a great first one for Koala , and Black Friday? A fun continued tradition. My 16 year old nephew joined me this year, and says he'll pass on it next year:-)

OK, on to the Christmas cards. I haven't tried this deal, but it looks AWESOME!

Check out all the details at Money Saving Methods--30 Christmas cards, and 75 prints for less than 50 cents from Kodak. Let me know how it works out for you!

http://moneysavingmethods.blogspot.com/2008/12/30-free-holiday-photo-cards-hurry.html

CVS Lunch Run, 11/24

1 Viva Paper Towels
1 Maybelline Mineral Make Up
1 Right Guard Deodorant

Total 24.47
-3.00 Maybelline
-.50 Viva
-15.00 ECB

Total OOP 5.97

Earned
2.00 for Paper Towels
8.99 ECB for Make Up
7.00 for Deodorant

What's your plan for CVS this week?

Menu Plan Monday, Thanksgiving Edition

If you have a moment, please check out my post below and leave your favorite verse--it would be a big help to me!

Here are our dinners for the week:

Monday

Tilapia w/Garlic and Olive Oil, Edamame

Tuesday

Baked Cod w/Sliced Tomato and Artichokes

Wednesday

Sandwiches

Thursday
Turkey
Sausage Stuffing
Artichoke Rice Salad (see recipe here: http://koalamama.blogspot.com/2008/11/recipe-thief.html)
Mashed Potatoes
Cranberry Sauce
Ciabatta Bread
Green Bean Casserole
Pies!

Friday
Leftovers, yum!

Need some great planning/recipe ideas? Want to share your ideas?

Check out: http://orgjunkie.com/2008/11/menu-plan-monday-nov-24th.html

Thanksgiving Day, Verses

We are hosting Thanksgiving at our house this year--for about 12-14 people.

I'm brainstorming a last minute idea, that includes having a bible verse for each person.

I have a few in mind already, but am in need of more--please share your favorites or any related to being thankful in the comments below--I'd really appreciate it!

A couple I have so far:

Micah 6:8 He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

Phil. 2:3-4 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Psalm 69:30 I will praise God's name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Col 2:7
Let your roots grow down into him and draw up nourishment from him, so you will grow in faith, strong and vigorous in the truth you were taught. Let your lives overflow with thanksgiving for all he has done.

Jhn 1:16
We have all benefited from the rich blessings he brought to us--one gracious blessing after another.

Luk 10:27
The man answered, " `You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.' And, `Love your neighbor as yourself.'

Eph 3:19
May you experience the love of Christ, though it is so great you will never fully understand it. Then you will be filled with the fullness of life and power that comes from God.

Black Friday Strategy

Will you be here next Friday?

I'm still scoping out the best deals--thanks to http://www.chieffamilyofficer.com/ I found a great site to help me with my strategy--what store to hit first, which items are must haves, etc.

I will admit that the true strategy session will take place only after my belly is full of turkey. I'll sit down with my Mom and our Sharpie pens and make the plan.

That great site? http://blackfriday.gottadeal.com/

For Thanksgiving day deals at CVS, check out the scoop from Alyssa: http://www.kingdomfirstmom.com/2008/11/cvs-black-friday-deals-revealed.html

What's on your must have list this year? Will you be up at 3 am, heading out with your Black Friday Strategy? Let me know in the comments section below.

Frugal Friday, Curried Lentils

Lentils are...
healthy, cheap, and suprisingly tasty.

Especially curried lentils.

Needed:

1 cup of dried brown lentils (70 cents for an entire bag)

2 cups of water

a couple of pinches of Kosher salt, but any salt will do (pennies)

a few pinches of Curry Powder

I used "regular" curry powder, (pennies)

and Hot Madras curry powder (pennies)

Cook on low heat until tender.

That's it. Simple.

healthy, cheap, and suprisingly tasty.

This is a filling meal--especially over rice, and costs less than 70 cents to make!

looking for more lentil inspiration?

check out my post here:

http://koalamama.blogspot.com/2008/09/frugal-friday-sprout-edition.html

looking for more frugal ideas? check out Frugal Friday at Biblical Womanhood http://biblicalwomanhoodblog.blogspot.com/

Recipe Thief

...that's me. I'm the recipe thief. I was mentioning a recipe a couple of days ago...calling it mine, and my hubby reminded me (with the above title) that it was originally his--he was right.

I've realized this is a pattern--if someone makes a recipe I love, and then decides not to make it very often I quickly learn it. Other people start to call it mine. It is not intentional, but if someone sees you make the same thing 20x, they assume you started it.

And yes, I tend to make the same thing over and over, because I am far from a chef.

So, to be sure I give credit where credit is due--this recipe came from my mother-in-law, but I'm not sure where she got it.

I'm participating with the Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipe Swap at Life as Mom today, check out more dishes here: http://www.lifeasmom.com/2008/11/recipe-swap-thanksgiving-side-dishes.html

So, without further delay--here is the recipe for Artichoke Rice Salad:

2 Boxes Rice A Roni Fried Rice mix
1 bunch of green onions
Mayo
Curry Powder
Slivered Almonds
2 cans of artichokes

Cook Rice A Roni according to directions, let cool. Mix in roughly 1.5 cups of mayo. Mix in quartered Artichokes. Add Curry powder to taste. Chop up green onions and sprinkle on top, along with the slivered almonds. Refrigerate until served. Yum!

This is a big hit with the kids, and even with people who don't like Artichokes.

And to my sister--I think you asked for this recipe a couple of years ago--can't remember if I ever got it to you. If not, here it is--finally!

Amber Alert

Please take a minute to read this story. I know I have some fellow Texans who read this blog--this one is hitting very close to home for us. This little girl goes to our church.

http://www.ksat.com/news/18018056/detail.html

Wordless Wednesday, 100th post

My Koala.

In honor of my 100th post, I've finally added a profile picture, and I have a new e-mail address:
tara (at) mamakoala (dot) com


The profile pic is of my little Koala who inspired me to start saving money...which led me to the wonderful world of money saving blogs, personal finance blogs, and so many other inspiring and funny blogs! I'm also working on adding a blogroll to the sidebar:

Mama Saves, Mama Reads, etc.

Happy Wordless Wednesday

(although I'll admit mine was not so wordless this week)!

Join in the fun at www.5minutesformom.com

Frugal Friday

CVS Clearance is my tip for Frugal Friday!

I stopped by the Halloween Clearance Aisle yesterday, and was pleased to find some Modela Tote Bags mixed in with all the orange and black decorations.

I scanned the bags, and was excited that the cost was only $1.25 each. This is much cheaper than regular disposable gift bags! I will be using these to "wrap" some Christmas gifts.

Head on over to http://biblicalwomanhoodblog.blogspot.com/ to read more tips, or to share your ideas!

Honored!

I'm honored to be selected by Karen at Frugal Rhode Island Mama

http://frugalrimama.blogspot.com/

for the Kreativ Blogger Award!

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

Isn't it pretty?

Thank you, Karen!

The rules: I have to share six things I'm thankful for and forward this award to six other Kreative Bloggers.

I'm Thankful for:

1) My incredible family

2) Grace!

3) My wonderful friends

4) My adorable dogs

5) My job, which allows me to work from home

6) Beginning the Total Money Makeover Plan in May (check out the awesome series of the steps here: http://simplemom.net/dave-ramseys-baby-steps/), which led me down this couponing, money saving path--and led me to the wise women in this bloggy world!

I have many blogs I'm thankful for, but here are six I'm awarding the Kreativ Blogger Award:

• The Bargain Shopper Lady http://www.bargainshopperlady.com/
• The Diaper Diaries http://thediaperdiaries.net/
• Modern Mommyhood http://modernmommyhood.blogspot.com/
• Chief Family Officer http://www.chieffamilyofficer.com/
• Sisterly Savings http://sisterlysavings.net/
• China, Baby! http://www.ourfamilyjournal.com/ check out their fundraiser to bring home their precious butterfly boy, Owen--the story behind the butterfly boy name is beautiful--read that here http://www.ourfamilyjournal.com/search/label/Butterfly%20Story --fundraiser details here: http://www.ourfamilyjournal.com/2008/11/our-family-fundraiser-update.html)

In Shock--a CVS Coupon!

I just received an unexpected e-mail from CVS....

"Veterans Day Savings of $5 at CVS!‏"

That's right, a $5/$30 coupon!

Check your e-mail! Did you receive any unexpected coupons today?

My CVS List...

A few items on my CVS list this week.....

1 Garnier Conditioner at 2.99

-1.00 Coupon

= 1.99 Out Of Pocket

Earn 2.00 ECB

2 Glade Air Freshener Sprays at .99 each

-1.00 coupon

= $1.00 Out Of Pocket

1 Lysol All Purpose Cleaner at 2.50

-1 1.00 coupon

=1.50 Out Of Pocket

1 Glaceau Smart Water (1 liter)

=1.59 Out of Pocket

Earn 1.59 ECB

1 Rimmel Mascara at 6.99

-1.00 Coupon

=5.99 Out of Pocket

Earn 4.00 ECB

Did you already make your trip? What deals are you hunting this week?

I'll update post trip!

If there is any "free" Loreal Revitalift left tomorrow, I'll complete the following scenario:

1 Revitalift @ 11.99/1 Garnier Conditioner @ 2.99/1 Reeses Peanut Butter cups @ .50=15.48

-$3 off $15.00 coupon received in the mail=12.48

-1.00 Garnier Coupon=11.48

-5.00 in ECBs=6.48 Out of Pocket

Earn 2.00 ECBs for Garnier, and 11.99 for Loreal

How did my trip go?

No Loreal at my store, but overall it was a great trip!

6 Bags of Hersheys Bliss=18.00

2 Bars of Symphony Chocolate=2.00

1 Lysol 4 in 1 Cleaner=2.50

2 Glade Air Fresheners=1.98

1 Garnier Conditioner=2.99

1 Large Package Huggies Wipes=7.99

Retail Cost=45.00

-5/30 Coupon

-Manufacturer Coupons

- 5.00 in ECB

Total OOP=25.00

Earned 18.00 in ECB

Menu Plan Monday

Our Dinner Plan for the week:



Baked Pork Chops with Lentil Rice Salad


(trying a new recipe: http://www.fatfree.com/recipes/bean-salads/lentil-rice-salad)

Steamed Fish with Sesame Oil and Ginger, Jasmine Rice

Veggie Sandiches with Hummus and Pita Chips

(trying a new recipe: http://www.recipezaar.com/Hummus-51535)

Baked Halibut

(trying a new recipe: http://www.awesome-chef-recipes.com/california-baked-halibut-recipe-baked-fish/22/)

Dinner at Moms:-)

Check out more menus at www.orgjunkie.com!

November is Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month

Have you heard? It's Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month. I hope someday the purple ribbon awareness will be as common as the pink ribbon awareness!

I had never heard of pancreatic cancer--until 5 years ago, when my Dad was diagnosed.

He lived for 48 days after the date of diagnosis. 48 days.

Unfortunately, that kind of story is all too common.

You might have heard of it through Randy Pausch--http://download.srv.cs.cmu.edu/~pausch/. Or because of Steve Jobs or Patrick Swayze.

How can you help?

Spread the word about Pancreatic Cancer Awareness month...wear a purple ribbon, visit http://www.pancan.org/, raise your voice http://pancan.org/raiseyourvoice/index.html, shop at zgallerie this weekend http://www.zgallerie.com/t-pancan.aspx, donate, or PRAY for a cure and comfort for those impacted.

Budget Wedding Ideas Needed!

My niece was planning her wedding for April, but has moved it up to the end of December--her fiance is joining the Air Force.

Do you have ideas for a beautiful wedding on a budget?

Do you have any do it yourself projects, recommendations on ways to save, or any other advice to help this bride to be?

Voting=Free Food

Vote. Because you should. Because so many sacrificed so we can...

Bonus: Some businesses are rewarding your good citizenship with free food!

Wear your sticker, and go get some of these goodies:

http://www.moneysavingmom.com/money_saving_mom/2008/11/vote-and-get-free-stuff--like-krispy-kreme-donuts.html

Enjoy!

CVS Run

I made a trip to CVS tonight, but my store was all out of the free toothpaste!

Here's the breakdown on what I purchased.

3 pack Ivory Soap .99 -.25 coupon from 11/2 P&G Insert

Dawn Dishwashing Soap -.25 coupon from 11/2 P&G Insert

1 Olay Body Scrub 6.00 -2.00 coupon from 11/2 P&G Insert

1 Olay Ribbons Soap 6.00 -1.00 coupon from 11/2 P&G Insert

Used 8.00 in ECB

Paid 1.98 on a gift card (free with a prescription transfer)

Earned 5.00 in ECB for the Olay products

Luckily the manager and employees were restocking the shelves, so I'll be able to go later this week and get paid to take toothpaste out of the store.

See what's free at CVS this week at Coupon Cravings:

http://www.couponcravings.com/2008/11/cvs-whats-free-this-week.html

Check out more CVS "snacks" here:

http://mommysnacks.blogspot.com/2008/10/cvs-snack-week-of-november-2.html

Happy Shopping!

Carter's Warning...Issued by Consumer Products Safety Commission

I'm a big Carter's fan, but this is a cause for concern: http://www.commonsensewithmoney.com/2008/10/carters-refund-due-to-cpsc-advisory-on.html

See if you have any of the possible impacted items--by viewing pictures here: http://www.chieffamilyofficer.com/2008/10/cpsc-advisory-tagless-labels-can-cause.html

Please pass along this information to anyone who has kiddos who wears Carter's.

We'll be looking through Koala's clothes tonight (after trick or treating:-), to make sure we don't have any of the "bad" tags.

Update: I've done a little more reading, and it appears the chemicals causing this could be in other brands of "tagless" clothes--it might be wise to look at all of the clothing, and some are suggesting medical tape over the "tag" area to create a protective layer between your baby's skin and the chemicals used for these "tags."

2nd Update:

Thanks to Allison for the Carter's website link about the situation:
http://www.carters.com/Corporate/tagless_message.aspx

Some kiddos are having some severe reactions, but hopefully this isn't happening to too many-it looks awful. Poor babies!

http://taglesstorture.blogspot.com/

Redbox code, October 27

Today's code is: 93NCA5

If you need the scoop on how to use redbox, check out Denise's post here:

http://thecentsiblesawyer.blogspot.com/2008/06/red-box-codes-and-step-by-step-guide.html

Giveaway Carnival!

Have you heard?

Bloggy Giveaways is having a carnival--with your chance to win many, many awesome prizes.

Check it out here:

http://www.donttryit.com/bloggy_giveaways/2008/10/bloggy-giveaw-1.html

Enjoy!

Free (CVS) Money?

Enter for your chance to win a CVS giftcard at:

http://frugalrimama.blogspot.com/2008/10/this-weeks-giveaway-another-10-cvs-gift.html

I was lucky enough to stumble across this blog as part of the Bloggy Giveaway Carnival. Check out her awesome blog design, and her great CVS posts!

http://frugalrimama.blogspot.com/

Let me know if you win!

Menu Plan Monday

Our Dinners this week:



Tuna Steaks/Asparagus



Baked Pork Chops/Noodles



Meatball Subs/Salad



Dinner at Moms:-)



Penne Pasta with Chicken and (Turkey) Bacon

I plan to try this recipe:

http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Penne-Pasta-with-Spinach-and-Bacon/Detail.aspx



What's on your menu?



Join in or check out orgjunkie.com for some menu ideas!



http://orgjunkie.com/2008/10/menu-plan-monday-oct-27th.html

All You!

Have you heard about the All You events this weekend? I love their magazine, and am sure some fun tips and coupons will be available at these events.

Check to see if your local store is participating!

http://www.allyou.com/static/yesyoucan/index.html

Check out their website for some great articles as well!

Enjoy.

Frugal Halloween Celebration...

If you are looking for some Halloween freebies, and a fun time (and some great deals!) check out Old Navy this weekend!

Check out the details here:

http://oldnavy.p.delivery.net/m/p/nvy/pvw/previeweml.asp?cid=16115414260&pid=735894&mid=1548031255

Be sure to call your local store to make sure they are participating in the event.

Have fun!

Redbox Code

Looking for some free entertainment tonight?

Today's Redbox code is PK66H8.

Looking for a Redbox? Find a location near you:

http://www.redbox.com/Locations/KioskSearch.aspx

New to Redbox? Check out this post by Denise @ The Centsible Sawyer for the details:

http://thecentsiblesawyer.blogspot.com/2008/06/red-box-codes-and-step-by-step-guide.html

ENJOY!

Makeup and Cupcakes

The possibility for free makeup and cupcakes? Yum!

Polly over at Perfectly Provident is hosting a 100th post giveaway,

Check out the details here: http://perfectlyprovident.blogspot.com/2008/10/100th-post-time-for-giveaway.html

Mercedes has started a review blog, and is celebrating by giving away a Girl Gourmet Cupcake Maker!

Check out the details here: http://commonsensewithmoneyreviews.blogspot.com/2008/10/product-review-and-giveaway-girl.html

Be sure to enter and let me know if you are a lucky winner!

Menu Plan Monday

Breakfast:

Bananas
Kashi Cereal/milk
Peanut Butter on Toast

Lunch:

Turkey Sandwiches
Noodle Salad
PB&J

Snacks:
Fruit

Dinners:

Onion Pork Chops with Asparagus (super easy!)

How? Slice sweet onions, place over pork chops in a baking dish, cover in water. Bake until done--usually 45min.-1hour on 375.

Ginger Fish with Edamame and Jasmine Rice

Veggie Sandwiches

Dinner at Mom's house:-)

Lemon Pepper Fish with Tomatoes and Rice

I'm going to try this recipe:
http://www.find-a-seafood-recipe.com/lemon-pepper-fish-recipes.html

We are shooting for 1 vegetarian recipe and 2 fish recipes a week, due to cholesterol issues. What's on your menu this week? Need ideas? Head on over to orgjunkie.com.

http://orgjunkie.com/2008/10/menu-plan-monday-oct-20th.html

Thirsty Thursday

I found a drink I'd like to try for Thirsty Thursday, but I haven't tested it out yet.

It looks like a fun idea for a kid's Halloween Party. Let me know if you've tried it before, or if you test it out on your kiddos.

I especially think the wiggle worms would make this a hit with little ones!

From the Better Homes and Gardens Website:

http://www.bhg.com/recipe/drinks/fruit-drink-spritzer-with-wiggle-worm-ice/

(for me, I'd just use plain orange juice instead of pineapple-orange--I'm allergic to pineapple!)

Fruit Drink Spritzer with Wiggle Worm Ice

Ingredients
1 12-ounce can frozen pineapple-orange juice concentrate
1 12-ounce can apricot nectar, chilled
2 12-ounce cans lemon-lime carbonated beverage, chilled
1 6-ounce can frozen pineapple-orange juice concentrate
Chewy, fruit-flavored candy worms
Directions
1. For ice, prepare one 6-ounce can frozen pineapple-orange juice concentrate. Arrange chewy fruit worms in the bottom of a 4-cup ring mold. Pour juice into mold to almost cover worms. Do not allow the worms to float. Cover and place in freezer for 1 hour or until frozen. Add any remaining juice to mold. Cover and freeze until firm.
2. In a small punch bowl, prepare the 12-ounce can pineapple-orange juice concentrate according to package directions, using cold water. Stir in the apricot nectar. Add the carbonated beverage, stirring gently to mix. Unmold the ice ring by running cool water over outside of mold; carefully add ring to punch. Makes 10 (8-ounce) servings.
Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare ice ring and store in freezer up to 2 weeks before using.

Head on over to a little birdie told me...for more ideas to quench your thirst! Have a drink recipe to share? Leave your link there: http://birdiesaystweet.blogspot.com/2008/10/thirsty-thursday_16.html

Food Poisoning, Ugh

I've had limited time on the computer since Sunday....due to a mild case of food poisoning.

Ugh.

A mild case of food poisioning is kind of like saying a mild case of chicken pox....not as bad as it could have been but still very miserable.

Tag, I'm it!

I've been tagged, so I'm going to share some random facts about myself.

Before you scroll down to find out more about me, head on over to Shalee's Diner (shaleesdiner.com) to learn some weird things about Shalee...she's a movie quoting, air hockey playing, book-a-holic...I better stop before I give all her randomness away.

While you are there, spend some time looking around her blog--it's good reading!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

OK, here we go:

1) I hate checking voicemail. Really I do. It's not that I don't want to hear from you, that's not it. Work in a call center at some point in your life, and you'll totally understand. Most of my friends know to call the hubby's cell phone to reach me.

2) I love the TV show 24. So glad it will be on again this year. Hopefully Keifer will stay out of trouble in real life, and the writers will stay focused--so there won't be any interruptions in the future.

3) I wake up in the middle of the night thinking about CVS deals/scenarios. Sad, yes, but hey I've saved a ton of money on razors, toilet paper, toothpaste, and shampoo!

4) I've only cut my hair a couple of times in my life. And I'm over 30. Just barely over 30. I'm known as the"girl with the long hair." Very soon, that will change.

Check out Pantene: Beautiful Lengths ttp://www.beautifullengths.com/en_US/index_home.jsp

5) I live next door to family--both sides, and it's not a farm. We just cornered a subdivision...and no, I'm not crazy, and yes we get along.

6) I love a great deal--seriously, it's a high to save money. I guess if you have to be addicted to something, bargain shopping and couponing isn't so bad.

7) I can be a bit of a hermit sometimes....I love to spend my time at home with my hubby and baby--I'm trying to be more sociable again (more than just interacting with the CVS cashiers).

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

The seven blogs I'm tagging:

1) a little birdie told me... http://birdiesaystweet.blogspot.com/

2) hippostoes... http://hippostoes.blogspot.com/ (check out the launch of kid's clothing line!)

3) crazy adventures in parenting... http://crazyadventuresinparenting.blogspot.com/

4) from wags to riches... http://fromwagstoriches.entempore.com/

5) penny pinching diva... http://pennypinchingdiva.blogspot.com/

6) my precious pennies... http://mypreciouspennies.blogspot.com/

7) commonsensewithmoney... http://www.commonsensewithmoney.com/

Lunchtime CVS Run, ECBs and (lots of) Coupons

Have you spotted any CVS deals this week?

Sadly, the clearance area at my store is bare, but that might be my fault...
(see post here: http://koalamama.blogspot.com/2008/10/cvs-90-off-again.html)

I made a quick trip on my lunch break yesterday, here's how it played out:

1 Always Infinity Pads 4.98
1 32oz Vitamin Water 2.29
4 mini staplers .50 each (these should have been 10 cents--I wasn't paying attention!)
3 Johnsons Buddy Soaps 1.19 each

Retail Total: 12.84
ECB Spent: 5.79
Coupon used (Johnsons Buddy Soaps): 3.00
Balance Due: 4.38 on a gift card

ECB Earned: 4.98 for Always, 2.29 for Vitamin Water, 7.00 for Summer spending

Coupons printed:

$5/$20 Halloween Costumes/Accessories

$3 off Excedrin Express Gels

$2 off Tylenol Rapid Release

$4/$20 Playskool purchase

I've never received that many coupons from the register!

Did you receive any fabulous coupons from the register? How did you use your ECBs this week?

I'd love to hear from you in the comments section below.

Thirsty Thursday

My contribution to Thirsty Thursday this week?

Limeade! Really yummy limeade--my hubby's recipe.

All ingredients are estimated......you'll have to taste test to make sure you have the combinations right!

Ingredients:

Water

Ice

Limes

Sugar

First, make a simple syrup: dissolve sugar in boiling water in a saucepan--keep adding sugar until it will no longer dissolve.

Second, squeeze 5-6 limes into a pitcher.

Third, mix in the simple syrup.

Fourth, add water and ice.

Fifth, the best part--taste. Add more sugar or water if needed.

Enjoy!

Too dress it up a bit add the limeade to tall glasses and garnish with a slice of lime, and a sprig of mint.

Do you have a recipe to share? Head on over to a little birdie told me...

http://birdiesaystweet.blogspot.com/2008/10/thirsty-thursday.html

Wordless Wednesday, Moody Gardens 2007

courtesy of my hubby, the photographer

These were taken on a trip to Moody Gardens (Galveston, TX) last year.

I just checked the website, and it appears parts of the gardens are already open for business--so the Gardens survived/have recovered the hit from Hurricane Ike!

http://www.moodygardens.com/

Join in the Wordless Wednesday fun at 5minutesformom.com

http://www.5minutesformom.com/4468/wordless-wednesday-wheeeeee/

Toolin' Up Tuesday, Baby Wash

My favorite tool this week? Davies Babies All-Over Baby Wash.

http://www.daviesgate.com/index.cfm/s/1/a/catalog.prodshow/vid/169/catid/11

This might not seem like the most frugal soap choice, however a little bit goes a LONG way. I love this foamy product--just a few pumps of the dispenser, a little bit of scrubbing, and baby Koala is all clean, and smells heavenly, truly HEAVENLY.

We received this gift pack as a gift from the hospital when baby Koala was born:
The lotion has the same HEAVENLY smell.

I'm so glad we were introduced to this product. I need to order some, as our supply is now running low! What's your favorite baby soap or other bath-time tool? Let me know in the comments below!

Check out other tools to make your life easier at http://www.lifeasmom.com/2008/10/toolin-up-tuesday-mapquest.html !

http://www.lifeasmom.com/

While you are there--if you are new to CVS-ing check out her excellent CVS primer: http://www.lifeasmom.com/2008/10/mom-deals-and-cvs-primer.html

Menu Plan Monday

This is my first time participating in Menu Plan Monday!

I'll post dinners only, as lunch around here is usually just a quick sandwich.

Monday: Baked Fish, Edamame, Rice

Tuesday: Cappellini Pasta, Bread

Wednesday: Pork Roast (I'd like to try this recipe from $5 dinners), Asparagus and Rice http://www.5dollardinners.com/2008/10/pork-with-apples-and-asparagus.html

Thursday: Dinner at Mom's house

Friday: Sausage and Lentil Soup (something similar to this recipe)

http://www.justslowcooking.com/slo-0015141.html

What's on your menu?

Check out other menus or join in at orgjunkie.com.
http://orgjunkie.com/2008/10/menu-plan-monday-oct-6th-thanksgiving-edition.html

Start Saving, Step #4

Start Saving

Step #4

Plan.

Plan your trips. Plan your menus.

It's really that simple--but for me it is a relatively new concept.

Confession: I'm a reformed impulsive grocery store shopper--and I'd usually make the huge mistake of going H-U-N-G-R-Y. I try not to do this anymore--it makes for a much smaller bill.

1. Review sales/coupons

2. Plan menu around sales/coupons

3. Review your pantry, refrigerator to determine what ingredients you already have--instead of buying another jar of mayo in case you are out (oh yes, I've had 3 jars of mayo in my refrigerator at once because of my poor shopping habits)

My grocery bill for the week was the lowest it's ever been for our 2 adult household--$31.00. I didn't even use coupons on this trip.

My purchases?

Chicken Drumsticks (about 8 large drumsticks)

Tomatoes

Wheat Angel Hair Noodles

Tortillas

Eggs

Avacados

Salami

Ramen Noodles

Carrots

Bananas

Apples

In my pantry?

Lentils

Bread

Cereal

Garlic

In my freezer?

Fish

Edamame

In my garden?

Basil

The plan:

Breakfast-cereal, fruit

Lunch-Ramen noodles, salami sandwiches, carrots, egg sandwiches, leftovers

Dinners-Baked Drumsticks (2 meals) , Fish/Edamame, Lentil Tacos/Avacado, Cappellini, Toast/Eggs/Fruit (breakfast for dinner), dinner out one night

A little planning goes a long way.

A helpful site? http://www.supercook.com/ (just type in what ingredients you have in the pantry, and the matching recipes will appear)

I know there are more experienced planners out there--feel free to share your tips in the comments section!

What tools help you plan meals? How do you plan your shopping trips?

Lowes--Free Workshops for Kids

Did you know Lowe's offers FREE Workshops for Kids?

The workshops include: a free apron, goggles, and a merit certificate of completion.

Workshops are offered on the 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month.

Check out all the details here:

http://www.lowescreativeideas.com/build-grow/build-and-grow.aspx

Wordless Wednesday, Backyard Visitors

courtesy of my photographer hubby

check out other Wordless Wednesday entries at 5 Minutes for Mom

http://www.5minutesformom.com/4394/wordless-wednesday-26/

Garage Sale

All you Dave Ramsey fans know Dave says, "sell everything but the kids."

I'm not quite there yet, but I have been able to overcome some fears of a pack rat, like "what will I ever do without this?"

I've come to realize, whatever "this" is can typically be replaced if I really can't live without it.

However, I can live without more "things" than I thought I could.

So, Garage Sale day is this weekend! I'll be pricing items the next couple of days, and getting everything set up.

Any advice from garage sale pros? If so, I'd love to hear from you in the comments section.

CVS--90% off, again! Super Savings Saturday

Do you need backpacks or lunchboxes for the next school year? Are you planning on "adopting" a family at Christmas, or do you have some Christmas shopping to do for kids?

If so, head over to your local CVS!

Backpacks, themed lunchboxes (think Wall-E and Cars), and some school supplies are on sale for 90% off!

Yesterday, I was able to grab 4 lunchboxes (the insulated cloth type), 1 cloth lined wicker basket, 1 backpack, the Covergirl Clean deal, the Fusion razor deal, and some toilet paper--after ECBs I paid 2.37 Out of Pocket, and earned 10.79 in ECBs. According to the receipt I saved over 90.00!

Mini size markers, and rulers are on sale for .05!

My mom made a stop at another CVS, and was able to grab 9 Backpacks/Lunchboxes, for a total of 11.16. She saved over 93.00!

The prices range from .59 to 1.79.

Happy Shopping!

To see some great deals found by other thrifty shoppers head on over to moneysavingmom.com!

http://www.moneysavingmom.com/money_saving_mom/2008/10/super-savings-s.html

Frugal Friday, The Sprout Edition

Do you like sprouts?

We like sprouts on sandwiches, sprouts on salads, sprouts on noodles, and sprout salad.

Inspired by high prices on sprouts at our grocery store, and this post:

http://dudewheresthestove.wordpress.com/2008/07/06/lentil-okonomiyaki/

we decided to "make" our own sprouts.

How?

1. buy 1 bag of lentils (70 cents)

2. soak lentils in a glass bowl near natural light (covered) for 24 hours

3. rinse lentils, leave uncovered near natural light

The results?

Almost free sprouts.

YUM.

see how yummy they look below

get more Frugal Friday ideas at Biblical Womanhood

http://biblicalwomanhoodblog.blogspot.com/2008/09/frugal-friday-how-to-live-on-beans-and.html