Living a frugal life is tough

Anyone wondering why there have been a lack of posts lately? We have been busy.

My hubby (aka the hottie on the roof) and I have decided that we would save money by doing everything we are capable of ourselves. So the latest project has been our roof. The past couple of months I have had to keep a plastic bowl on the couch where the roof would leak whenever it rained. It has not been fun. So we are doing a complete tear off and then putting a new roof on. My husband has been doing the work on the roof each night when he returns from work and my job has been the clean up. (You can see how hard I've been working in that dumpster...



but look at what I still have left!)



I can't tell you how happy I will be when this project is done. Although we saved a ton of money we didn't have, it has been so much work. We are exhausted. And we haven't had energy or time to do much else. Hence the title "Living a frugal life is tough."

I know that people have different ability levels. And in no way would I recommend that everyone do their own roof, but I suggest looking into you expenses and see if there is anything that you have been paying someone else to do that maybe you could do yourself. It may be tough. It might not be fun. But in the end, you've done it yourself. I love the feeling of accomplishing something. Plus it is a whole lot cheaper.

We recently had our electric changed from the old fuses to circuit breakers or whatever it is. I really have no idea about this stuff. We had to pay an electrician to do most of the important stuff because neither one of us knew enough or felt comfortable enough to tackle this job. But my hubby and I decided to change all the outlets and wires ourselves (our whole system is from the 60s when the house was built and needs to be updated to three prong and what not). Even if we get a wire or outlet changed every other day or even one a week, we are saving a ton of money and will eventually get it done.

Have you completed any interesting DIYs lately? I'd love to hear about them.

Rite Aid stop 8/30

I went to Rite Aid a little earlier in the week in hope that they would still have things in stock this time.

I did two transactions and the cashier was awesome!!!

Transaction #1
3 12pks of Coke $9.99
1 Nivea lip gloss $2.99
2 Pantene shampoos and conditioners $8
1 Bourdeaux Butt Paste $3.99
2 Pepsi Max $2.18

Total:
$27.15 plus tax and deposit


I used $5 off $25
free coke coupon $3.33
VV coke coupon $1
Nivea coupon $1
2 - Pantene coupons $4 total
Butt Paste $2
Butt Paste VV $3
bogo pepsi max coupon $1.09
bogo VV pepsi coupon $1.09
$1 +up from last week

saved $22.51 or paid $4.64 plus tax and deposit.

I got back $7 ($2 for coke 2-$2 for pantene, and $1 for Nivea) in +ups and will get $1.99 back for Nivea lip gloss. So this was to me a great deal.

Transaction #2

I used those +ups to get the following:

2 Pampers Diapers $8.99 each
2 Pampers Wipes $3.69 each

Total $25.36

I used $5 off $25
2- $1.50 off Pampers
2 - free wipes (up to $3.50)
$7 in +ups that I just got!

So I saved $22 in coupons to pay $3 plux tax.
Then I received $4 in plus ups ($2 for each pack of diapers).


So it took $7.64 out of pocket plus tax and deposit. I got back $11 in +ups and will get $1.99 back in SCR. Technically this was a great money maker. I was very surprised to see that the register was printing more than one +up for items that I bought. I thought there was a limit of 1!!!!!!! Nice:)

Pamper Gifts to Grow

Here is a 20 point code to add to your stash:

HangOn2Summer20

If you haven't checked out Pampers Gifts to Grow program yet, it is great. Right now they have tons of toys on clearance (use less points). So instead of needing 3400 points you might only need 2300. This "sale" goes on until 9/23.

I almost have enough points for the mini food processor, but I saw a bunch of toys that the babes would like as well... and they'd be free!!!

If you've been loading up on all the free wipes from pampers lately you can score a ton of points. Just be sure to right down the code before you throw out or reuse the container.

Metromint Coupon Winners

Official comments #3, 12, and 15 were chosen as the winners of the metromint coupons. So Congrats to Chelle, Kerrie, and Brooke. An e-mail should be coming soon. They will have 48 hours to respond before another winner is chosen.

Rite Aid Scenarios

I have to admit it... I am actually excited about this week at Rite Aid. It has been a while since the deals have looked good. And this week they sure do.

Here are some of the items I am excited about:

3 12pks of Coke $9.99
use $1 off Video Values to make it $8.99
then get $2 +up to make it $6.99 for all 3

Nivea Lip Care $2.99
use $1 from Sept. All you
$1.99 single check rebate
get a $1 +UP Reward
makes this $1 money maker!!!!!!!!!!

Pantene Restoratives Beautiful Lengths Hair Care $4
use $2 coupon from this Sunday's paper
get a $2 +up
(I think this qualifies for rebates as well)
Free plus possible money maker

Boudreaux’s Butt Paste $3.99
use $2 from 4/11 smartsource (hope you saved it!!!!!)
also use $3 Video Values coupon that just came out
makes this free

Gain dish detergent $0.89
use $1 from this sundays paper
makes this free

Nivea bodywash for men
use $1 from 7/25 redplum
get $2 +up
makes this free

Pampers Jumbo Pack $8.99
use $1.50 off from 8/1 P&G (expires 8/31)
get $2 +up
makes this $5.49

I got the short ad again, of course. So these are not all the possible deals. These are just the ones that caught my eye. To find a more detailed list visit Shannon at For the Mommas here.

Now here are my ideas for shopping this week:

Deal #1

Buy 2 Pampers ($8.99 each) $17.98
Buy 2 Pampers Wipes ($3.69???) $7.38

Total $25.36
use $5 off $25 (you can print one at redplum.com or watch the video values)
use 2 - $1.50 off pampers cruisers from 8/1 P&G
use 2 - free wipes when you buy diapers

Total after coupons: $9.98
You'll get back $2 +up (you'll probably only get one $2 +up, but you never know)

So it is like paying $7.98 for all!!!!

Deal #2

3 12pks of Coke $9.99
Butt Paste $3.99
2 Pantene Restoratives ($4 each) $8
Nivea Lip $2.99
Gain $.89

Total $25.86
Use $5 off $25
$1 off Coke 12pk from Video Values (aug)
free coke 12pk coupon (I just got this in mail from mycokerewards)
$2 butt paste coupon from 4/11 redplum
$3 butt paste coupon from new video values
use 2- $2 pantene coupons from 8/29 P&G
$1 Nivea lip from all you
$1 coupon for Gain from 8/29 insert

New Total $5.53
Get $2 +up from Coke, $1 +up from Nivea, $2 +up from Pantene and $1.99 SCR from Nivea. This option has now become a money maker if I added right.... Should have grabbed the calculator.

I am working on another with the Maybelline lip gloss deal.... will update if I come up with anything.

Bzzagent might be looking for you...

I received the following message from Bzzagent Jono inviting me to get my friends involved in the latest campaign.


Here is what they sent me:

Who could say no?
We’re recruiting new Agents for the Friendship Dairies BzzCampaign and wanted to give you the opportunity to invite friends, family and co-workers to enjoy these all natural, healthy and delicious dairy products with you. Who wouldn’t want the chance to try protein-rich and totally creamy cottage cheese for free?

Who to invite?
People who may be eligible for this campaign:
• Are women, 25 – 54 years old
• Live in the New York metro area or upstate New York
• Have bought cottage cheese in the past 90 days

Send them the link
If you know anyone who meets these criteria, send them this link to learn more and sign up: http://www.bzzagent.com/go/friendshipdairies*.


Well???? Do you qualify??? If so be sure to sign up for free cottage chese and probably coupons to share!

Rite Aid Stop 8/26

When I got to Rite Aid they were totally out of M&Ms so I had no choice but to go with scenario #2. The Snickers marathon bars were $1.59 instead of $1.20. So instead of $1.20 total for everything I spent $1.59 total after all SCR and +up rewards.

What's in my Mailbox

Here are the latest finds in my mailbox.

We have a Cheetos sample, delicious vanilla lip balm (veira???), nexxus samples with a $3 coupon, free 12pk of coke coupon from mycokerewards, a coupon for a free Reese's product of my choice (the envelope for this one had a note that I won a contest), and a free subscription to Women's Day.

Plus I got my latest product to test... sneakers for New Balance. I don't get to keep them, but I do get to wear brand new shoes for a couple of months which is awesome. Plus it helps lengthen the life of my regular shoes. They get pretty beaten up running almost everyday! (Do you want to be a tester too? Go here.)


What's in your mailbox?

Pyrex at Wegmans

Wegmans has the best shopping carts for kids. My little loves just can't wait to jump in and drive the car that sits on the front of the cart. So we ran out of bread and went to Wegmans. I couldn't bring them in and not let them take the car for a spin.


So we wandered around and I found a whole section of Pyrex that was on sale in the $3 and $4 range. These were some of the smaller glass storage containers that Pyrex makes. You can use the $1 off coupon from the 8/22 Smartsource to make this even better! I don't know about you, put I love containers of all shapes and sizes...

My Rite Aid Scenario

I know that lots of people are excited about Rite Aid deals this week, but I'm not feeling it. There are a ton of free items after Single Check Rebate, but that takes money out of your pocket that I just don't have this week. Plus, most of that stuff we don't use. So I'm struggling with what I will do this week.

Here is my first idea:

2 Tides on clearance $3.09 each ($6.18)

2 Dove Chocolates 2/$6 (now we are at $12.18 total)

2 Marathon Bars BOGO $1.20??? ($13.38 total)

3 Pilot Easy Touch Pen 3/$3 ($16.38)

3 bags of M&Ms 9.9 - 12.6 oz $7.50 (on sale 2/$5) ($23.88 total)

1 Reeses candy of some sort ($little over $25 total plus tax) You could use any filler you wanted.

So then I will use:

$5 off $25 (drops the total to $21.87)
2 - $1.50 off tide coupons from last sunday ($18.87)
1 - $1/2 Dove VV coupon ($17.87)
2 - $1 off Dove coupons from 8/15 redplum($15.87)
1 - Snickers marathon BOGO coupon from All You ($14.67)
2 - $1 Pilot printable ($12.67)
1 - B2G1 free M&Ms coupon ($10.17)
1- free reeses couon ($8.92) got this coupon in mail... said I won a contest


I will receive:

$1 +up for Dove chocolates
$1 +up for pilot pens
$1 SCR for pilot pens

So that sort of makes the total $5.92 for all. Not the best scenario. I hate to spend that much oop just for Tide when the other items are wants not needs. The Tides alone would be around $6- $3 in coupons = $3. So not sure if I can justify spending the extra to get some much wanted chocolate!

Here is another idea:

Buy 3 John Freida Root Awakening 3/$15

2 Dove Chocolates 2/$6 (now at $21)

2 Tide detergents on clearance (notice I'm trying to stock up on these....) (now at $27.20)
2 snickers marathon bars BOGO $1.20 each??? (now around $28.40 plus tax)

I will use:

$5/$25 ($23.40)
3 - $3 off John Freida from 8/22 insert ($14.40)
2 $1 off Dove chocolates ($12.40)
1- $1/2 Dove chocolate Rite Aid Video Value ($11.40)
2 - $1.50 off Tide ($8.40)
1 - BOGO marathon coupon from All You ($7.20 plus tax)

I will get back:
$5 SCR for John Freida
$1 +Up for Dove

So now you can sort of think of the ending total as $1.20 once you've received the +ups and SCRs. For me the OOP is more important because than is money that I have to have right now!

I like this scenario better because I will also get shampoo and conditioner that I can add to my stockpile while getting some chocolate too. Plus the overall spending is much less.

If you have money to spend on items and want to get a larger return there are several options with all the free after rebate options. You can see some of them here and here.

Wegmans Deals of the week

My Wegmans deals are based on a Rochester, NY area store. Most stores in the area will double any coupon under $1. So a $0.75 coupon doubles to be $1.50 off. Wegmans have different coupon policies, so check with your's before you go.

The Wegmans deals have not changed much. So some of this is repeated from the last post.

Wegmans Brand

Bananas $0.49/lb

Corn 4/$1

Milk $1.98 (1 gallon)

8pk paper towels $4.99

Bathroom Tissue 1000ct 2/$1

Ice Cream or Ice Cream Sandwiches $1.99

Soda 12pk 5/$10 ($2 each)

64fl oz lemonade $1.99

Pasta Sauces $1.99

Dressing $1.49

Slices America Cheese $1.99 (12oz??)

mandarin oranges 2/$1

French Onion Dip $1.29

Mac and Cheese $0.33 per box

Ketchup 40oz $0.99

Mayo 30 fl oz $1.99

Cereals (lots of falvors around 17oz size) $1.69

Peanut Butter 18oz $0.99

Condensed Tomato soup, chicken noodle 2/$1

tortillas 15oz $1.99

antiseptic oral rinse 2/$3

one a day for women (Wegmans brand) 100ct 2/$5



Other Deals

Intense Chocolate Milk $1
use $0.25/1 from 8/22 insert *doubled* to make it $0.50

Heinz Ketchup 40oz $1.49

Capri Sun $1.79

Chips Ahoy 2/$4

(Coupon from $1 off any chips ahoy and 1 capri sun making it $2.79 to get both... found this in store on shelf so YMMV)
There is also $1/1 chips ahoy with reeses in all you magazine.

Doritos $1.99

Utz potato chips (not sure on price because comp says not aval at my store, but on sale at others)
use $0.75 from 8/22 *doubled* should make a deal (regular price $2.69 so will be less than that)

Kettle Chips 2/$5
use $1/1 from 8/15 redplum to make it $1.50 each

Folgers 11.3oz coffee $1.99

Purex laundry detergent $1.99 50 fl oz
use $1/2 from 8/15 to make it $1.49 each

Heluva good bricks of cheese $2.49
use $2 off from Section A of Democrat and Chronicle to make it $0.49 (july)

Pillsbury Brownies $0.99

Campbell's Pork & Beans $0.33

Campbell's Chunky Soup 4/$5 or $1.25 each
use printable to make it as low as $.25 each if Harvest Select are included
use $1/4 from 8/22 insert to make it $1 each

Sprite and coke products 3/$9.99 12 packs

Bar S Franks 1 lb $0.99

Oscar Mayer Weiners $1.69 for 16oz

Poland Spring 3liter $0.99

Cheerios $2.99
if multigrain is included use $0.75 printable *doubled* to make it $1.49

Aunt Jemima mini pancakes $1.99
use new printable $1/2 to make them $1.49 (use zip 88588 if you can't see)

Edy's Fruit Bar $2.99
$.50 printable *doubled* to be $1.99 each

Turkey Hill Ice Cream $2.49
use $1/2 from calendar to make it $1.99 each (same as weg brand)

Fudgsicle Fidge Bars $1.99

Drumstick Ice Cream Cones $2.49
use coupon from Sept. All You Magazine to make it $1.49

Tony's Party Time Pizza $0.99

Breyers YoCrunch Yogurt 6 oz $0.60

Pillsbury toaster strudel $1.99
use $0.50/2 printable *doubled* to make them $1.49 each

Nature Valley Granola Bars 2/$5
use $1/2 from 8/8 smartsouce to make them $2 each

Nutri-grain Cereal Bars $2/5
use the $1/1 from 7/11 redplum to make it $1.50 each

Chex Mix $2.79 for 15oz
use $.50 printable *doubled* to make it $1.79

Yoplait delights $2.49
use $1 off from sunday insert to make it $1.49 (not sure on date but they are in there all the time)

Danimals products (smoothies, dan-o-ninos) $1.99
use $1 off from 7/18 smartsource to make it $0.99

Dannon Activia Yogurt $1.99
use $1 off from 8/8 smartsource to make it $0.99

Go-gurt $1.99
use $0.75/2 printable *doubled* to make it $1.24 each

Mott's Applesauce 6pk $1.69

Kraft Singles 12oz 2/$4
use $1/2 printable (already needed to print I believe) makes it $1.50 each

Crest toothpaste 3.5oz $0.77 (great if you need and don't have coupons or deals for larger package)

Crest toothpaste 6.2oz $2.39
use $1 off from 8/1 P&G to make it $1.39

Reach Crystal Clean Toothbrush $1.49
use $1 off reach coupon from several past inserts to make it $0.49 each

St Ives Moisturizer or Body Wash 18oz $1.99
use $1 facebook printable $0.99 or
use $0.50 from 7/18 Smart Source insert *doubled* to be $0.99

Suave shampoos $0.77

Cottonelle Ultra toilet paper $4.99 2112ct
use $1/1 from sample to make it $3.99 (snail mail)
$0.50 printable *doubled* to make it $3.99 (not sure if still available)

Band Aids 20ct (select characters) $0.99
use $3/3 from 8/1 Smart Source to make 3 Free

Noxzema 2oz $1.99 (there is a bunch of bigger ones on sale for $2.99 as well)
use $0.75 from 7/18 Smart Source *doubled* to be $0.49


Remember that there are a bunch of great French's coupons that you can print. These products aren't on sale now, but after the coupon doubles they are still a decent price if you really need it. I posted about this here if you'd like to see the details.

As always, I'll update as I find more!!!

Outdoor Vinyl Banner Giveaway Winner!

Using random.org, the 6th official comment is the winner.... Congrats goes to Judy. She will have 48 hours to respond to the email sent, otherwise another winner will be chosen.

Free Band Aids at Wegmans and a Free Book

Wegmans currently has select Band Aids with characters (20 ct) on sale for $0.99.
So you can score three for free using the $3/3 coupon from the 8/1 Smart Source insert. Some of the free characters I noticed were Hello Kitty, Littlest Pet Shop, Transformers, Sponge Bob, and Diego. The Princesses, Tiana, and Toy Story were not included. My little love was a bit bummed, but I reminded her that Optimus Prime and Megatron were better than nothing....

Then come home and follow directions on the coupon insert to score a free book as well!

New Pamper Gifts to Grow Codes

Here are some August Codes. Sorry I haven't posted any of these in a while.

CAREFORNEWBORNS for 10 points


GTGCOUPONPOINTS for 10 points


GTG5FREEPTS0810 for 5 points


AUG2010FACEBOOK for 10 points

The Rattles Giveaway

We have been dancing along to The Rattles for a few days now. My kids love them. They have a very 70s feel, with songs that last about 2 minutes and easy to follow lyrics. This is not the typical kids music. It isn't annoying! It isn't pop music done over with kids voices. And I love that they have songs my kids are interested in. Right away I went to track #3, Shipwreck in the Sky, for my little love that is obsessed with pirates right now. And wouldn't you know, they start singing about a captain with one eye! My oldest love asks for the songs and the babe just dances. We are loving The Rattles!!!


Here is what's being said about the Rattles: New York, NY – Armed with a bright-eyed and bushy-tailed fusion of classic rock and power pop, The Rattles are on a roll! Parents, kids, and music lovers of all ages have been singing unanimous praises for ‘RATTLE ON’ (August 17th), the lively full-length debut from this furry musical menagerie – composed of life-long friends Gus, Sal, Hal, and Kitty.

Acclaimed parenting author and ‘Chicken Soup for the Soul’ Editor, Susan Heim referred to the album as “unique”, “catchy”, and “awesome” while Blissful Bee Blog recommended it to “anyone who has children that love music.” The Clever Mommy Chronicles drew comparisons to The Beatles, They Might Be Giants, and Rilo Kiley, and raved, “Really, truly, the CD is fantastic. In fact, I was disappointed because it only has nine tracks. I found myself wanting more. That’s pretty big for a kids’ CD!”

The CD just came out. So you can buy your own here. You can also follow the Rattles on Twitter. And if you have no idea who the Rattles are you can take a listen to some of the album Rattle On right here or more from the album here.

So what can you do?

You can go to the official webite Rattles Rock and check out the newly released album Rattle On.

You can also enter to win a copy! I am giving away one copy of the album to one of my followers. All you need to do is make sure you are following Deal-licious Debby and then leave a comment with your email address. I will use random.org to pick a winner. This giveaway ends at 11:59 on September 21. Good Luck!!!!

Target Trip 8/21

So I took my little hunny to find a new bookbag and some school supplies. While we were there I figured I would grab a couple other deals. I had a ton that I wanted to do, but just couldn't afford the dollar here and there for each of them. Even though it is only a dollar for this or that, it really adds up quick if you grab ten or so of these items.

Anyways, here are some of the things that came home with us:

2 Campbells soup bowls $1.50 each
used 2- $1/1 printable and 2 - $0/50 target printable to make them free

2 Post it super sticky $1 each
used 2- $1 from 8/15 insert

4 - Bic mechanical pencils $1.20 each
used 2- $1/2 from sunday insert and 2- $1/2 target printable
made them $0.20 each
(I could have gotten free pens, but didn't really like them and needed the pencils more as a math teacher)

4 - Snack Packs $0.95 each
used $1/4 from sunday insert and $1/4 target printable
made them $0.45 each

1 Bagel Bites $2.24
use one $1 from old sunday paper (also a coupon in new Woman's Day) and a $1 target printable
made them $0.24

2 evolve ziploc bags $1.77 each
used $1.50/2 printable from Right at Home
made them $1.02 each

2 Juicey Juice $2 each
used $1/2 from sunday insert and $1/2 target coupon I got from machine last time I checked out
made them $1 each

2 Italian Dressings $1.50 each (price cut)
used $1.25/2 from sunday insert
made them about $0.88 each

We also got glue sticks for $0.20 and crayons for $0.25. My love needed a back pack, folder, pencil box, and 1 gallon ziploc bags as well. I was able to use gift cards I earned to pay for all and even get a few clothing items for the little love.

If you go and are in need of little girls (4x and up) clothes, I found tanks for $0.87 and shorts for $1.75 on clearance. If your budget allows for it, this is a great time to stock up for next summer. These prices are better than second hand stores!!!!! I know my little love was excited to bring home a couple new shirts and shorts today. And I am happy knowing she can go to school in style without stains.

Walmart stop 8/21

Wal*Mart is not my favorite place to shop, but they have decent prices. So I made a fairly quick stop there this afternoon.

What made it into my cart while I was there you ask?

4 Heluva Good cheeses $2 each
used 4 - $2 coupon from July Sunday paper
free

Simply Smart Chocolate Milk
used freebie coupon I got in the mail
free

2 Peter Pan Peanut Butters $1.68 each
used $1/2 coupon to make it $1.18 each
we really need peanut butter and plan to stock up... this is just the beginning

2 Good Earth Meal Kits $3.24 each
used 2 - $1 from past sunday inserts to make them $2.24 each

I was going to get more Post-its and forgot...oops

Have you found any good deals at Walmart? I'd love to hear them.

Peach Muffins

The love of my life has decided that these muffins are absolutely delicious. And I have to agree. This was the first time I have just tried to create a recipe on my own...

After eating the muffins, I think they could be made with other fruits. I am trying them with strawberries next week. I'll let you know how it goes. Plus, they are so sweet that you could even turn them into cupcakes and add some frosting.

So here is what you'll need:

1 1/2 cups flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 cup sugar
12 oz or so of fruit (I used peaches this time around)
2 eggs
2/3 cups vegetable oil

What to do:

I mixed the dry ingredients together. Then I added the eggs and fruit. After mixing again I added the oil and mixed one last time. Here you'll have to decide how big you want the chunks of fruit to appear in your muffins and let that determine how long you mix. I mixed and mixed in fear that my family wouldn't eat delicious chunks of peach....ugh... so hard to talk them into yummy stuff.

After putting the mix into cupcake holders, I baked for about 20 minutes at 400 degrees. I would think this would make a great bread too, but I would only set oven at 350 and bake it a lot longer - maybe an hour.

In the Garden

We continue to be blessed with a plethora of goodies coming from our garden. My hubby even commented on how we might be filling our bellies with veggies, but at least we were able to fill our bellies. I thought that was well put. Although, I have a deep love for eating veggies, and I am still having to talk him into eating his.

What is popping up in your garden?

Quick stop at Wegmans

As promised, I ran into Wegmans with my last two coupons expiring today to grab more coffee.

These were on sale for $1.99 each. Then I used 2 - $1/2 to make them $1.49 each!!! Even the chashier commented on what a great price this was for Folgers coffee. As soon as I got home my hubby made another pot of coffee. He was just waking from a nap... At least I was able to provide the coffee. We now have 8 which should keep us stocked for a little bit. Sale price continues until 9/25 I believe.... so let's hope for more coupons to pop up!

Second Rite Aid Stop... or was it the Third

So I stopped by again to use the +ups that were expiring today. Seemed silly to let $3.50 of free stuff go to waste... and I turned it into about $7 worth of free stuff.

I got the Tide on clearnace for $3.09 and used $1/1 from 8/1 P&G.
Then I also got these Glade oil scented candles on clearance for $1.74 and used 2 - $1/1 coupons from either the 8/8 or 8/15 inserts. Then I used the $3.50 in +ups. I ended up paying $0.07 + tax. (Total $6.57 plus tax - $6.50 in coupons)

I love candles... and they are a cheap way to make the house seem nicer!

I had a strange conversation with the cashier though. She said that I can't use my $5/$25 unless my total is over $25 after all coupons. This doesn't match with the printed Rite Aid coupon policy that was just updated two weeks ago. I checked with Shannon at For the Mommas who believes that this is a misunderstanding as well. But I'll let you know if any thing more comes of it. For now, the official policy says that it can be used before other coupons!

Frugal Fun #14

This is the site from my backyard. The little loves are out of their minds excited by the noise and movement as they work on a housing complex that is going up behind us. I know they love it, but I will be sad if anyone buys the land directly behind us and blocks our view of the beautiful field. On a clear day I can see the lake from here. I love it.

Dumpster Diving

I know that this picture is an absolute mess and I am sorry. My littlest love wouldn't keep his hands off the pile so I shot the picture while I had the chance.

Going to the recylcing bins has not really been working out as well as I had hoped. I feel like a real weirdo doing it and I don't always find the coupons that I needed.

This past week I did find a ton of coupons and even an August issue of All You that still had what I considered the "good" coupons left...weird isn't it?... I also found a couple of paper back books and some MyCokeRewards. But I really needed the P&G inserts. I found a couple that had already been cut up.

I also found a huge stack of expired coupons all together in a pile like I do in my accordian folder which tells me there must be more super couponers in town that I haven't bumped into. I'd love to find them and chat or maybe swap coupons with each other...

In my Garden

I finally got a picture of the peppers. It is so glorious to be making dinner and just be able to walk outside and grab the items that I need fresh from the garden. Even if you don't have a big yard (or a yard at all) you too can grow your own food. There are many dwarf versions of plants that are great in pots that can be grown outside on patios or porches or even inside under special lights.

I used these to make our chicken kabobs last night. They are delicious raw too.

What's growing in your garden?

My Rite Aid Trip

I went to both nearby Rite Aid stores this week and have to still go back.

My first trip:

Went to our favorite store first. My daughter loves the managers there and calls them by name when she asks for hugs. It is cute.

They were still out of the Schick Hydro razors, but did have Tide on clearance.

So I got 1 small bottle of Tide for a little over $3
I used $1/1 Tide from 8/1 P&G
and I used $2 +up. I paid $0.34 oop for remainder of cost and mostly tax.

My second trip:

So then we headed to the "other" Rite Aid. They did have the razors in stock, but they did not have the Tide on clearance.

So here is what we did:

2 Schick Hydro Razors $5.99 each with rain check (11.98)
1 Veet Hair Remover $6.69
1 Palmolive $0.99
1 bottle of water $0.50 (I forgot our water and we were about to go running in 85 degrees and humid weather....ugh....)
1 fun size pack of twix $1 (treat for little loves)
Last 2 items are not pictured because they were already consumed!

Total $21.16

I used $5/$20 from last months video values
2 - $5 off Schick
1 - $3 Rite Aid in ad coupon for veet
1 - $3 printable for Veet

I was left to pay $0.19 and tax

So we did really well, but I still have $3.50 in +ups that expire Saturday. I will not let free money go to waste. So I will post again after the next trip. It probably won't be anything too exciting.... most likely more Tide!

Mega Swagbucks Day

Well, it's Friday. And that means mega swagbucks day. Today you have a better chance of getting higher amounts when you search. I got eleven bucks for my search this morning and will try for more later. I seem to get swagbucks when I search for some of my favorite blogs. It works almost everytime. You might have to do three searches before you get rewarded, but that only takes a couple minutes. I have earned thousands of swagbucks in just a few months and have finally decided what I am going to do with those bucks. Right now I'm converting them into Amazon giftcards so that I can get some Jillian Michaels workout DVDs (yes something just for me.....) and some Christmas presents for the kids and the neices and nephews. It is an easy way to take some of burden off the budget.

Have you signed up yet. It is free and it is easy. Go here to get started.

Littlest Love

I laugh when I say littlest love. He is my youngest, but he is just huge. Today he became 18 months old. And he's probably about 33-35 lbs. He's a good 33 inches tall as well. He's as big as he is sweet. I often think about what a wonderful gift he has been to our family. He loves to give kisses and hugs. He thinks tickling is the best past time ever invented. And I love the way he hugs with his whole self.

As summer quickly comes to a close, I just want to spend all my time with my little loves. And I don't know about you, but spending time with loved ones takes my mind off tight budgets. It is refreshing and delightful!

New Kraft Coupons

I know my little love will be so pleased with that I printed the new Capri Sun coupon. We hardly ever get these and she loves them.

Go here to print them and check out the rest.

Giveaways Reminder

I have two giveaways going on right now. You can click on the links under the pics of my loves on the left hand side.

The outdoor vinyl banner giveaway ends 8/24 and the metromint giveaway ends 8/27. Both have very low entries so be sure to enter for a chance to win!!!

Good luck everyone!!!

Wegmans Deals of the week

My Wegmans deals are based on a Rochester, NY area store. Most stores in the area will double any coupon under $1. So a $0.75 coupon doubles to be $1.50 off. Wegmans have different coupon policies, so check with your's before you go.

The Wegmans deals have not changed much. So some of this is repeated from the last post.

Wegmans Brand

Milk $1.98 (1 gallon)

8pk paper towels $4.99

Bathroom Tissue 1000ct 2/$1

Ice Cream or Ice Cream Sandwiches $1.99

Soda 12pk 5/$10 ($2 each)

64fl oz lemonade $1.99

Dressing $1.49

Slices America Cheese $1.99 (12oz??)

mandarin oranges 2/$1

French Onion Dip $1.29

Mac and Cheese $0.33 per box

Ketchup 24oz $0.79

Mayo 30 fl oz $1.99

Cereals (lots of falvors around 17oz size) $1.69

Peanut Butter 18oz $0.99

Condensed Tomato soup, chicken noodle 2/$1

tortillas 15oz $1.99

antiseptic oral rinse $1.99



Other Deals

Capri Sun $1.79

Chips Ahoy 2/$4

(Coupon from $1 off any chips ahoy and 1 capri sun making it $2.79 to get both... found this in store on shelf so YMMV)
There is also $1/1 chips ahoy with reeses in all you magazine.

Doritos $1.99

Folgers 11.3oz coffee
use $1/2 to make them $1.49

Folgers 11.3oz Black Silk coffee $1.99
use $1/1 to make it $0.99 from 7/?? insert expires 8/21

Purex laundry detergent $1.99 50 fl oz

Heluva good bricks of cheese $2.49
use $2 off from Section A of Democrat and Chronicle to make it $0.49 (july)

Pillsbury Brownies $0.99

Campbell's Pork & Beans $0.33

Sprite and coke products 3/$9.99 12 packs

Bar S Franks 1 lb $0.99

Oscar Mayer Weiners $1.69 for 16oz

Poland Spring 3liter $0.99

Cheerios $2.99
if multigrain is included use $0.75 printable *doubled* to make it $1.49

Coco Puffs 2/$4
use $0.55 printable *doubled* to make it $0.90 each

Eggo waffles $1.99
coupon is now expired

Aunt Jemima mini pancakes $1.99
use new printable $1/2 to make them $1.49 (use zip 88588 if you can't see)

Edy's Fruit Bar $2.99
$.50 printable *doubled* to be $1.99 each

Turkey Hill Ice Cream $2.49
use $1/2 from calendar to make it $1.99 each (same as weg brand)

Fudgsicle Fidge Bars $1.99

Breyers YoCrunch Yogurt 6 oz $0.60

Pillsbury toaster strudel $1.99
use $0.50/2 printable *doubled* to make them $1.49 each

Dannon Activia Yogurt $1.99
use $1 off from 8/8 smartsource to make it $0.99

Go-gurt $1.99
use $0.75/2 printable *doubled* to make it $1.24 each

Rinaldi pasta sauce $1.29

suave shampoos $0.77

Nature Valley Granola Bars 2/$5
use $1/2 from 8/8 smartsouce to make them $2 each

Chex Mix $2.79 for 15oz
use $.50 printable *doubled* to make it $1.79

Yoplait delights $2.49
use $1 off from sunday insert to make it $1.49 (not sure on date but they are in there all the time)

Danimals products (smoothies, dan-o-ninos) $1.99
use $1 off from 7/18 smartsource to make it $0.99

Kraft Singles 12oz 2/$4

Crest toothpaste 3.5oz $0.77 (great if you need and don't have coupons or deals for larger package)

Crest toothpaste 6.2oz $2.39
use $1 off from 8/1 P&G to make it $1.39

Reach Crystal Clean Toothbrush $1.49
use $1 off reach coupon from several past inserts to make it $0.49 each

St Ives Moisturizer 18oz $1.99
use $1 facebook printable $0.99

Cottonelle Ultra toilet paper $4.99 2112ct


As always, I'll update as I find more!!!

Cheesey Chicken and Broccoli

My family loves this meal and I like it because it is easy to get done on a week night.
I apologize that I forgot to take a picture of it finished before we ate it. This picture was taken in the middle of preparation/


What you'll need:

1 lb of chicken
1 can of cream of chicken soup
broccoli
box of stove top
8 oz of sharp cheddar cheese

What you'll do:

Add about 1 to 1 1/2 cups of water to the Stove Top, mix, and set aside. Chop up the chicken, cheese, and broccoli. I like to coat the chicken and broccoli with the cream of chicken soup. Then I add the cheese and mix it around. Pour the Stove Top on top of the chicken mix. Then bake for about 1 hour at 350 degrees or until the chicken is cooked all the way through.

If you have time on the weekend, you could pre chop items and pre cook the chicken to make this even quicker on a week night.

Wegmans Shop

This week was much better than last, and a good thing too because we are almost out of meat in the freezer. With my hubby working a very labor intensive job, he needs all the food he can get including some great proteins.

Like last week, I didn't use very many coupons. I am basically getting necessities because our budget is so tight right now. We grow our own produce and my hubby is very particular about brands. Luckily he will agree to eating and using Wegmans brand products which helps our budget, but there are very few coupons to help.

What did we get????

I used $10 at the farm market to get corn, red potatoes, lots of onions for freezing and using, and tons of peaches!!!

So then the rest of our budget was spent at Wegmans. Using the menu I planned, I knew exactly which items we needed to complete the meals.

The only items that I had coupons for were:

Folgers Coffee $1.99 (on sale with SCC)
used $1/2 to make them $1.49 each

Kraft 100 calorie cheese
used freebie coupon from Kraft First Taste

Deli meat
used freebie coupon from Kraft First Taste

I scored some great chicken at $1.99 per lb and gallons of milk at $1.98 each as well. And we splurged on some ice cream priced at $1.99 as well.

My stockpile is quickly disappearing, so I am looking forward to getting a paycheck again and starting to rebuild my pantry. Just stinks that I have to be away from my loves. Oh well, I am blessed to have a job right now!!!!

You might be wondering why I would use some of our money to get sooooo many coffees. Here is were couponing saves you big time. The coffee is at a decent price and there are coupons for Folgers that are expiring 8/21. So here I wanted to buy as many as I could at the lowest price so that I won't run out until it is at that great price again. I plan to go and get more on Saturday after the hubby gets another paycheck!

Frugal Fun #14

Lunches have been kind of boring around here. So to jazz up the repeated sandwiches I pulled out the cookie cutters. My little love absolutely adores flowers and butterfly shaped sandwiches and she even eats the crust.

I know that lots of moms do this, but the cookie cutters can get expensive. So look for them after holidays and Walmart and Target so that you can get them on clearance. I got a set of 5 or 6 spring themed cutters after Easter at Target for less than a buck. It is a cheap way to make lunch fun.

Chocolatey Peanut Butter Bites

I like to think of these like my little candy bars. They are easy, cheap, and delicious.

I received a bunch of coupons for Kashi through Vocal Point. Then I searched for deals to make the cereal free. Now that I have so much of it, I needed to find ways to use it.

I don't do a whole lot of measuring unless I'm baking. So any amounts I give are just estimates.

You'll need:

2 1/2 cups of creamy peanut butter

1 bag of semisweet chocolate chips or chunks

about 4 1/2 cups of Kashi Go Lean Crunch (any crunchy cereal will really do, but this is what I had on hand)

I softened the peanut butter for a couple minutes on low heat in a sauce pan. Then I removed from heat and stirred in the chocolate. Once that was well mixed I added the cereal. i kept stirring until it was well coated. From here, I placed chunks of the mixture on plates to cool in the fridge. It is really yummy cold and can even be frozen so that it is ready any time. I think this is a great treat to add to Christmas cookie plates as well. And since it can be waiting in your freezer, you don't have to do all the prep at such a busy time of the year.

Target Deals

I'm thinking about doing some Target shopping this week. My little love will be going to Kindergarten and we just got her supply list. I have Target giftcards that I've been saving just for this... and my hubby needs new socks....

While I am there I'll be looking for some of these deals:

Super Sticky Post-its $1
use $1 off from 8/15 SS
will be free

Campbell's Select Harvest Soup $1.54
use $0.50 target coupon
use $1 camp. printable
will be $0.04

Oral B cavity defense toothbrush $1.59
use bogo from 8/15
use $1/2 from 8/1 P&G if store will take both

Mead Five Star Poly Portfolio – $0.50/ea
Use $1/2 Mead Five Star 8/8 RP
get 2 for free

I also printed some of those Merona target coupons from a week or so ago, so I'll be looking for some great clearance finds that would match up.

There is a ton more on sale a Target that you can find here.

What are you planning on getting at Target this week?

The Rattles

I have another great giveaway coming up for you. If you have kids you may have heard of bands that supposedly sing "kid music." I don't know about you, but I've found that this so-called kid music can often be quite annoying. Well, there is a group called The Rattles that I'm going to introduce to you. I don't mean the German group from the 70s... if you've ever heard of them, although they do have a 70s Beatles feel when you listen. My loves and I listened to just a couple of songs and thought it was fun.

Here is some information that was sent to me: The Rattles, a lively band of furry, family-friendly critters who will release their debut album, 'Rattle On' on August 17th. With a fresh, modern fusion of classic rock and power pop, similar to The Beatles, They Might Be Giants, and The Monkees, this colorful quartet has set themselves apart from the average children's music group by creating a listening experience that parents and adults can enjoy as well. Similar to the music of Yo Gabba Gabba, this project is about creating music EVERYONE can groove out to!

So you can check them out and listen to a couple songs as well or even follow them on Twitter. Their album comes out Tuesday August 17. So if you can't wait, check them out at rattlesrock.com and have fun. Otherwise, my review and giveaway are coming at you soon!

Rite Aid Scenarios

It is another week that hasn't really impressed me. But there are a couple deals to be had. Here are some of my favorites:

AMO Complete Multi Purpose Solution $7.99
Get $7.99 SCR
use $1/1 Complete Solution for Contacts, exp. 9-30 (RP 8/15/10)
Free plus overage

BIC Crystal Pens $1.99 each BOGO
buy (4) and use (2) $1.00/2 from 8/7 insert or there is a printable
Pay $1.98
get $1.00 UPR
$.98 or $.25 eachItunes Gift Card $25.00

Pamper’s Cruisers $19.99
Get $2.00 UPR
FREE Pampers Wipes wyb Pampers Diapers (P&G 08/01/10)
use $1.50 Pampers Diapers (P&G 08/01/10)
$16.49 after coupon & UPR for diapers & wipes

I have some +ups that expire this week, so I'll be making a trip. I am not sure exactly what I'll get yet because I've heard that some have cleaners and detergents on clearance 50-75% off. I need more Tide so I'm hoping to find it marked down.

my plan:

2 schick hydros $5.99 each (11.98) with rain check from last week
about $8 worth of Tide or you could really just put in $8 of whatever you might need

I'll use $5 off $20 from video values
2-$5 off schick
2-$1 off tide

The other $3 I'll cover with my plus ups.

To see more on Rite Aid go here.

Menu Planning

Another tight week... but better than last week.

So here is the plan:

breakfasts
bagel egg sandwiches for hubby
scrambled eggs
yogurt and waffles
peach bread or muffins (recipe and pics coming soon)
cereal
Cinnamon toast

lunches
bologna sandwiches
mac and cheese
tuna
egg salad wraps (had leftover wraps from last week)
leftover goulash from last week
shrimp poppers

snacks
smoothies
veggies and dip
bananas
peanut butter, chocolate Kashi bites (recipe coming as well... super easy)

dinners

Cheese burgers with corn on the cob

bbq chicken with salt potatoes and grilled squash/zucchini

cheesey chicken and broccoli (another family favorite that I'll share with pictures this week.... so yummmy and again easy!)

BLTs and french fries

chicken kabobs with salad and fresh green beans

eggplant parm with steamed broccoli

In my Garden

Here is some of the goodies that we have been bringing in from the garden. Everything you see here was picked in one afternoon. So you can just imagine what we bring/share in a weeks worth of time. We barely have spent any money on the garden... we don't even have a fence. So I have been really pleased with all the food God has blessed us with through the garden!


You'll see here some small watermelons - making my hubby look like Mickey Mouse.
More cucumbers and zucchini.
Finally Broccoli and eggplant are ready too.
We have been picking green peppers and cherry tomatoes... but these get eaten before I ever get a picture.

What's in your garden???

Kraft First Taste

Have you joined Kraft First Taste yet???? Well, if you read my post on shopping at Wegmans this week you might have noticed that I used some freebie coupons. They all came from Kraft First Taste. And they are giving out coupons for free or reduced Homestyle Macaroni and Cheese right now. I checked my inbox and had a freebie coupon coming my way.

They mail you the coupon so you don't have to worry about finding a store that will accept it. (Wegmans and Walmart stores around here will not accept internet freebie coupons.0 And it doesn't take a lot of work. I usually have a quick survey to take after I've tried the product. Give it a whirl and let me know what you think.

Frugal Fun #13

The power of the imagination.

My little love is obsessed with pirates at the moment. I think that using the items around your house to transform your play to another place is cheapest and best way to have fun with little ones.

We worked on finding an outfit and creating a space:

black bandanna
eye patch (cord from thumb drive)
boots (rain boots)
booty (fake jewelry)
sword ($2 at Walmart for foam sword - we already had)
blankets hung from the walls to create sails
telescope (paper towel roll)

Wegmans Shop

Living simply and on a very small budget doesn't have to always be about using coupons.
I only had $20 to buy groceries this week. It has been a tough week and my mom was nice enough to lend me the $20. Anyways, I only used 4 coupons in this purchase and was still able to keep within my budget.

Here are a couple of reasons that this worked out:

1.) I planned. When the budget is this tight, I first look to my stockpile and then plan the menu. I stick to the menu firmly when making my list and when shopping.

2.) I had a stockpile. When prices were great and there were coupons to match-up I loaded up on items that we use all the time like condiments and canned items.

3.) We have produce from our garden and cheap produce from the farmer's market.

4.) I use drugstore deals to get the toiletries and diapers that can often eat up all the money.

5.) I used bottle returns. I mentioned that I discreetly pick up cans and bottles while exercising. This week we took them in for returns to the tune of $10!!! So now I had $30 to work with.

So I used the freebie coupons on the mac and cheese and the koolaid fizz things.

Then the other items were the things we needed to complete the meals that I planned for the week. There is lunch meat for my hubby, but chicken and ground beef are coming from my freezer this week.

We came in just under $20 and we have been eating pretty well. My husband is having a tough time living like this, but I keep reminding him that we are getting out of debt so that we can enjoy the money we make by fixing up our house and traveling or just doing something fun in the future.

How did you do this week?

Metromint Giveaway

Did I ever mention that I am a Superfan of Metromint Water. Let me warn you that this is definitely an aquired taste. But I love it. They have 6 different flavors including chocolate mint, orange mint, spearmint, etc. I happen to love the chocolate mint. To me it tastes like water with mint leaves and a hint of chocolate. It would make a great after dinner drink to clean your pallete of any strange mix of flavors that are left behind. I also like that I can read the list of ingredients and pronounce them all correctly. It is just water and mint!

So here is the deal: This giveaway is sponsered by me and is in no way related to the Metromint company. They sent me coupons for free products and I have decided to share them with you. You have to become a follower and tell me which flavor you would want to try. I suggest going to the metromint website and checking to see if they sell it in your area because they are coupons that you'll need a place to redeem.

I will be picking 3 winners that will receive 1 coupon for a free bottle and 10 coupons for Buy 1 get 1 free bottles. This giveaway will be open until 8/27. Be sure to leave your email address so that I can contact you!!! Good luck.

Yippee it's Friday

Hello to all and happy weekend!!!!

If you are joining me from a blog hop, welcome and I'm glad you came!!!

If you decide to follow me I will follow you back and be sure to enter my giveaway for the outdoor vinyl banner. There are very few entries and it will be closing on 8/24.

Enjoy your day and your weekend!