Money saving tips

Thought I would post some ways we save money when camping. We did the tent thing when our kids were little then moved up to a very small travel trailer, I think it was a 12 footer. We now have a 28 foot travel trailer. Having the travel trailer makes it so much easier, everything we need is in the camper so the only thing we do when we return home is empty the fridge and bring in the dirty clothes. We started off with a pontoon boat, then got a ski boat. We now have a 1959 Sea King vbottom boat and its perfect for just DH and I to fish out of. But the best part is everthing is paid for!!

Most of the food we take comes from the stockpile

I have 2 crockpots in the camper that get used alot. I can put a pork or beef roast in it before we go out fishing and lunch is ready by the time we get back.

Bring our own ice from home to put in the boats ice chest.

Almost everything in the camper came from clearance, garage sales or the thrift store.

DH has an Access card so we get 50% off most campgrounds. We usually pay $10.00 a night. We try to stay fairly close to home if we can especially if it is for a week or more. That way we can come home to mow and check on things.

We have a small propane grill so the only time we buy charcoal is when all the kids are there and we feed a crowd.

All the trial size items I get free or samples in the mail go in the camper. When our kids do come they usually use the campground showers so our holding tank doesn't get full so quick. They can grab a trial size shampoo and soap and I don't have to worry about them returning a big bottle.

We have always loved going to the lake. It doesn't cost much to get away for a weekend or even a week.


I'll post more ways to save time and money camping.

Walgreens deals

4~Bic Soleil razors~6.99 BOGO 50%~used BOGO and $3.00 off 1=$.24 each

1~Fusion razor~9.89~used $4.00 off 1=$5.89 rec'd $5.00 RR

2~Playtex tampons~4.00 each~used $2.50 off 2=$5.50 rec'd $3.00 RR

2~Cheezit~2.50 each rec'd $2.00 RR

1~Crayons~1.00 rec'd $1.00 RR

2~Organix shampoo~6.99 BOGO=$6.99 send rebate for $6.99 so 2 bottles for free!!

6~Cookies~1.99 BOGO~used buy 4 get one free $1.50=$.75 each

Total $28.93-rec'd $11.00 in RR and $6.99 rebate=$10.94

The mail brought a $3.00 rebate.

Replaced fridge in RV

Our fridge in the travel trailer went out. We had been having trouble with it for some time. A replacement would have cost $1480.oo, so I did a search and found out we could replace it with a household fridge from Home Depot for $269.00. We found one that fit the hole perfect. DH had to remove some trim and modify the bottom a little so he could secure it. The old fridge was small compared to this one. The freezer is twice as big and I can actually fit a whole gallon of milk in it. We will save money in the long run by not running to town when we camp for extended periods. Can't wait for our week long trip!!

Working on the travel trailer

We have been busy working on our travel trailer. We decided to remove the bench close to the door. It is hard for DH to slide in and out not to mention he is 6' 4" so he didn't have much leg room. I can't believe what a difference it made! We had a few of these black chairs that were free when the company I worked for went out of business. The previous owners had saved a whole roll of leftover fabric so we used that to recover the cushion. DH had to build a box to cover the fender on the inside and recycle some trim from the old bench. It turned out nice and didn't cost anything. We lost some storage space but I have plenty of other storage areas.

Sorry meant to post the pictures before and after instead of after and before!!

Walgreens deals

2~Scrunci hairbands~$2.99 on sale BOGO~used IVC for $1.99~$.99 for 2

6~Combo snacks~$.99 each~used $1.00 off 2~$.49 each

6~Nabisco snacks~$.50 each~used $.20 off 1=$.30 each

6~Pantene~$1.32 each on clearance~used $2.00 off 1 and $1.00 off 1=free

Total $5.73-$.08 overage-$3.00 rr from previous deal=$2.65 + tax!

The mail today brought P&G coupons and 2 rebate checks. One for $4.50 and one for $1.39!

Walgreens deals this week and next aren't that good. I still have about $15.00 in rr so I may just get the Fusion razors with the 8 for $1.00 folders as fillers.

Homeland has their Kelloggs cereal on sale for $1.40 a box again! Also if you buy 10 Kellogg and/or Keebler items you get a $10.00 catalina! Transaction will look like this:

8~Kellogg cereal~$1.40 each~use $1.00 off 2~one coupon will double=$7.20

2~Keebler crackers~$1.40 each~use $1.00 off 2=$.80

1~1lb of bananas~use $1.00 off fresh fruit when you buy cereal=free

Total $8.00 receive $10.00 catalina!!

Walgreens deals

3 separate transanctions

1st

1~Airplus Aloe socks~$3.00

1~Blistex smoothies~$2.99

Total $5.99-$5.00 rr from previous deal=$.99 rec'd $6.00 in rr's.

2nd

1~Airplus Aloe socks~$3.00

Total $3.00-$2.00 rr from previous deal=$1.00 rec'd $3.00 rr

3rd

3~Captain Crunch cereal~$1.75 each on sale~used $.50 off 1 mfq=$1.25 each

2~Reeses pieces~$3.79 each~used IVC for $2.50 + $1.00 off 1 mfq=$1.50 each

1~Starburst jumbo bag~$5.99

1~Lays chips~$1.99

Total $14.73-2 $5.00 rr from previous deal=$4.73+tax!

So total oop was $6.72+tax but rec'd $9.00 in rr's! Had to use the rr because they would expire on July 4th and we have family coming from out of town so I won't be "Wagging" while they are here.

Walmart Deals

14~Louisiana fish fry mix~$1.76 each~ad matched for $1.00 each~used $1.00 off 2 mfq=$.50 each!

5~Shick razors~$1.97 each~used $2.00 off 1 mfq=free+$.15 in overage

6~Jello pudding mix~$.84 each~ad matched for $.50 each~used BOGO mfq=$.25 each

3~Wishbone dressing~$1.48 each~ad matched for $1.00 each~used $.75 mfq=$.25 each

2~Masterpiece BBQ sauce~1.38 each~ad matched for $1.00 each~used $1.00 off 1 mfq=free

2~Kraft BBQ sauce~$1.00 each~ad matched for $.50 each~used $.25 off 1 mfq=$.25

3~Taco seasoning~$.50 each~used $1.00 off 3 mfq=$.17 each

3~Lea&Perrins~$2.54 each~used $2.00 off 1 mfq=$.54 each

3~Fisher nuts~$1.88 each~used $1.00 off 1 mfq=$.88 each

2~White Cloud toilet paper~$2.00 each~used $1.00 off 1 mfq=$1.00 each

2~Reddi-Whip~$1.98 each~used $1.00 off 1 mfq~$.98 each

3~Edward pie slices~$1.17 each~used $.75 off 1 mfq=$.42 each

2~Blue Bunny 12 count ice cream sandwiches~$2.98 each~ad matched $2.50 each~used $1.25 off 1 peelie found on box=$1.25 each not shown I put them in the freezer right away, it is so hot!

Total $22.44-$.15 overage=$22.34

Got my socks!

They had a bunch so I think I will get all my kids a pair for Christmas.

1~Airplus Aloe socks~$3.00~rec'd $3.00 rr

Total $3.00+tax so I really only paid $.26 cents!

All kinds of designs and colors but these must be just for women because there were no masculine looking colors.

Walgreens deals

Wanted to get the socks that are free after RR but its been posted that Walgreens hasn't updated this deal and it is not printing right now. Maybe they will have it fixed by tomorrow. What I did get:

4~Oral B toothbrush~$4.99 each~used BOGO mfq and $1.00 off 1=$1.99 each rec'd 2 $3.00 rr's and 2 $2.00 rr so made $2.04

2~Sure deodorant~$1.99 each~used $1.50 off 1 mfq=$.49 each

2~Reach floss~$1.79 each~used $.99 IVC and $1.50 off 1 mfq=free+$1.02 overage

1~Fusion razor~$9.98~used $4.00 off 1 mfq=$5.98 rec'd $5.00 rr

1~2liter Diet Pepsi~$1.00 used for filler not shown

Total $14.92-$1.02 overage-$4.50 rr from previous deal=$9.40+tax rec'd $15.00 in RR's and the Sure deod. had try me free rebate!

Just an update: DH fixed the dryer so the clothesline is axed for now. I won't give up though and hope to eventually talk him into putting them up. I don't think he likes the idea of chaining up the dog in this weather. It is so hot here that just mowing will wear you completely out!

Walgreens deals

4~Nivea bodywash~$5.99 on sale BOGO~used BOGO coupon=free and rec'd 2 $6.00 RR rang up separate

3~Neutrogena soap~$2.19 each on sale~no coupons but there were some in my paper so I'll try to do this deal again. Rec'd $10.00 RR

1~Sunday paper~$2.00

2~Butterfinger~$.39 each my favorite cashier was working and these are their bonus items this week

Total $9.35-$5.00 rr from razor deal=$4.35+tax and rec'd $22.00 in RRs.

Just a little rant: This Walgreens is my favorite one, close to my house, clean, good management, coupon friendly, pretty good stock, the pharmacy knows us, etc. But I am tired of being solicited on my way in. Had this one lady ask me for money, kids asking for money, one guy ask if he could use my cell phone (don't have one anymore), one guy ask this elderly lady to give him a ride somewhere!! She told him no but she would call someone to come pick him up but he didn't want that. When it happened yet again this morning I went straight to the cashier. The manager came out and made him leave. I am all for helping people in need but the lady that ask me for money was talking on a cell phone, dressed nice, had nice jewelry on and didn't seem to be in distress about anything. If someone came up to me and explained their situation be it some sort of domestic issue, or they were stranded then I would be willing to help in some way. But these people are just hollering out "Hey you have a few dollars I can have?" It's crazy! Ok rant over.

Walmart Deals

Homeland had their cereal on sale 5 for $7.00 so I took the ad to Walmart for price match.

10 boxes cereal~$1.40 each~used $1.00 off 2 mfq=$.90 each and several boxes had $5.00 worth of coupons inside! Love cheap cereal! Will do this deal again Monday.

4~Vlasic pickles~$1.88 each~used $.55 off 1 mfq=$1.33 each

2~Old Spice bodywash trial~$.97

2~Old Spice deodorant~$4.24 each~used buy bodywash get free deodorant=free

2~White Cloud~$2.00 each~used $1.00 off 1 mfq=$1.00 each this is the best deal right now in my area for double rolls of toilet paper.

Total $18.26+ tax! The cereal is a stock up price I think I have 10 more coupons for a total of 20 more plus the coupons I found in the boxes:

3~$1.00 off fresh fruit when you buy two boxes of cereal

1~$1.00 off any coffee when you buy two boxes of cereal

1~$1.00 off any size any brand of milk

We don't need the coffee right now. The fresh fruit ones I will use for bananas put in 3 separate bags, each bag will add up to $1.00 so free bananas!! The milk one I will ad match for $2.69 so $1.69 for a gallon of milk that is cheaper than a half gallon!!

Target Deals

I found a target coupon for $1.00 off 1 Olay Effects bodywash in my binder that I didn't know I had.

1~Olay Effects bodywash~$5.50~used $4.00 off 1 mfq and $1.00 off tq=$.50

1~Ivory 10 bars~$3.59~used buy Olay get free soap up to $3.00=$.59

1~Toothbrush holder~$.25 on clearance

3~Crest Pro health~$3.00 each on clearance~used $.75 off 1 mfq and $.75 off 1 tq=$1.50 each and each box had a free Crest mouthwash attached. Normally I don't pay for toothpaste but the pro health is my favorite and we were out of it.

7~Colgate toothpaste~$1.38 on clearance~used $1.00 off 1 mfq=$.38 and each box had a free toothbrush attached.

1~Fructis conditioner~$2.08 on clearance~used $1.00 off 1 mfq=$1.08 and the bottle had trial size shampoo and conditioner attached. I like to keep the trial size stuff in the camper.

1~Fructis hairspray~$2.08 on clearance~used $1.00 off 1 mfq=$1.08

Total $10.66-$.10 for my bags-$5.00 gift card from ice cream deal=$5.56+tax!

Taco Bell free drink

Stopped at Taco Bell for their free Margarita Fruitista. I got the Strawberry one and it was really good. I don't know that I would have paid almost $3.00 for it. The coupons were in last Sunday paper and I have about 12 more!

Walgreens deals

2~Fusion razors~$9.89 each~used $4.00 off 1=$5.89 each and rec'd 2 $5.00 rr rang up separate

2~Bic Hybrid razors~$6.99 each~used $3.49 IVC and $3.00 off 1 mfq=$.49 each

2~Covergirl mascara~$3.19 each on clearance~used $1.00 off 1 and BOGO 50%=$1.39 each

3~Bayer chewable~$3.19 each~used $.99 IVC and $1.00 off 1 mfq=free

Total $15.54 and rec'd $10.00 RR

Target deals

I was hoping to find the Olay Effects body wash that some people have found for $3.84 TPC but at my Target they scanned $5.50! I did get:

5~Drumstick ice creams~$2.54 each~used $1.00 off 1 mfq=$1.54 each and rec'd $5.00 gift card

4~Bounty paper towels~$.99 each~used $1.00 off 1 mfq=free

4~Rolaids 3 pack~$1.99 each~used $4.00 off 2 mfq=free+$.04 in overage

Total $7.70-$.04 overage-$.15 for bags=$7.51+tax and rec'd the $5.00 gift card!

Walmart deals

Good Walmart run but I forgot my pickles!! What I did get:

8~Pampers wipes~$1.97 each~used $2.00 off 1 mfq=free+$.24 cents in overage

4~White cloud~$2.00 each~used $1.00 off 1 mfq=$1.00 each

2~Adams flea collar~$.97 each~used $3.00 off 1 mfq= free+$4.06 in overage

2~All you magazines~$2.24 each~used $.50 off 1 mfq=$1.74 each

2~Old spice body wash trial~$.97 each

2~Old spice deodorant~$4.24 each~used buy body wash get free deodorant mfq=free

2~Rolaids 4 roll pack~$2.23 each~used $4.00 off 2 mfq=$.23 each

1~Dog biscuit~$2.50~used $2.00 off 1 mfq=$.50

1~Noxema razor 4 pack~$2.97~used $2.00 off 1 mfq=$.97

Total $11.35-$4.30 in overage=$7.05+tax

Walgreens

Both Walgreens I went to were completely wiped out of razors and all the gillette body wash. I will wait until later in the week and try again. Still got a good deal:

2~Always pads~$3.79 each on sale BOGO 50%~used free coupon from Kotex deal=free+$1.90 in overage

2~Bayer~$3.49 each~used $.99 IVC and $1.00 off 1 mfq=free and one was a double pack

1~Bayer chewable~$2.99~used $.99 IVC and $1.00 off 1 mfq=free double pack

1~Dawn~$1.99~used $.99 IVC and $1.00 off 1 mfq=free

1~Cascade~$3.99~used $2.00 off 1 mfq=$1.99 and rec'd $1.00 RR

Total $1.99-$1.90 overage=$.09+tax and rec'd $1.00 rr!!

I started to go Sunday knowing that the razors would probably be wiped out but got busy doing yard work!

Money saving tips

My dryer went out (the heating element). Oldest DD was in between moving so she loaned me hers out of storage. She came and got it so now we are without a dryer until DH fixes ours.

Well I'm seriously thinking about not fixing it since it uses alot of electricity. Instead I'm trying to talk DH into putting my clothes line poles back up. We would have to chain up our dog while the clothes were on the line. I have missed being able to hang clothes out, we took them down when we redid the house. Here are some tips:

~use liquid fabric softener (free or really cheap of course)

~shake the clothes before hanging to reduce wrinkles

~double up thin items such as hankies, pillow cases, underwear (if you hang yours out) to give yourself more line space

~hang shirts from the tail and jeans from the legs

~some people have bags for their clothes pins but I prefer a pouch (like the car hops wear at Sonic or the workers at Subway) that ties around your waste. That way you can bring your pins inside out of the elements, it keeps the wooden pins from rusting or rotting and the plastic ones from getting brittle.

~hang out your whites when you have the most sun exposure

~alot of complaints about towels being "scratchy" so if you have a dryer put your towels in for a few minutes before you hang them out.

~if your clothes line is further out in the yard invest in a little red wagon it will save your back! Think garage sales or thrift stores.

~choose the most windy day if you can for the least amount of wrinkles

They say you can save $100.00 or more a year hanging out your clothes. With energy costs rising it just makes sense to let nature do the work for you.

Now back to convincing DH to get out in the 97 degree weather and put up the poles!!

Free Catfish

My son went fishing this morning and brought us these 2 catfish!! We love having a family fish fry a few times a year. Catfish is priced anywhere from $4.99 to $6.99 a pound here! DH fillets them with his electric knife and we freeze them in salt water.

Walgreens and Walmart

Walgreens:

1~Trash bag~$4.99 on sale

1~Ecotrin~$2.00~ran out of coupons but used as a filler and rec'd $2.00 RR

1~Bic mechanical pencil~$1.39 on clearance~these were marked $3.29 but rang up $1.39 and had a TMF rebate up to $5.99

Total $8.38-2 $2.50 rr's from kotex deal=$3.38+tax rec'd $2.00 rr and will send for the rebate


Walmart: no picture

12~Bar S jumbo hot dogs~$.50 each~price matched from Dollar General~used $1.00 off 2=free

1~Vlasic pickles $1.86~used $.55 off 1=$1.31 this is a huge 46 ounce jar of whole dill pickles
still have 6 coupons!!

Total $1.31+tax!

I can't wait for the Sunday paper, lots of good coupons! Probably will purchase 15 or 20. The two that are the best~Fusion razor $4.00 off 1 and Pampers wipes $2.00 off 1. Walgreens will have a RR deal on the Fusion and I think the wipes are right at $2.00 at Walmart. Although Walgreens will have their wipes $5.00 for 2 starting Sunday. You can't beat $.50 cent wipes!!

Walgreens deals

1st transaction:

2~Cortaid cream~$3.00 each~used $4.00 off 2=$1.00 each~rec'd rebate form for $3.00 so $1.00 money maker

1~Kotex U~$3.49~used $1.00 off 1=$2.49~rec'd RR for $2.50

1~Ecotrin aspirin~$2.00~used $1.50 off 1=$.50~rec'd RR for $3.00

Total $4.99+tax & rec'd $5.50 in RR and the $3.00 rebate so a $3.00 MM!

2nd transaction:

3~Neutragena soap~$3.29 each~no coupon but rec'd $10.00 RR

1~Kotex U~$3.49~used $1.00 off 1~$2.49 rec'd $2.50 RR

1~Ecotrin~$2.00~used $1.50 off 1~$.50 rec'd $2.00 rr

Total $12.86+tax rec'd $14.50 in RR

3rd transaction:

2~Klondike bars~$.39 on clearance

1~Milk~$1.89

2~2liters~$3.68

2~Ravioli~$.99 each no coupons I like to have these in the pantry for the grandkids

1~Peroxide~$1.29

1~Ecotrin~$2.00~used $1.50 off 1=$.50 rec'd $2.00 RR

2~Lifesavers~$1.14 each on sale BOGO~used $.75 off 2=$.77 each

Total $11.66-$10.00 rr from Neutragena deal=$1.66+tax and I still have $14.50 in rr left!

Target Deals

Good Target run today!

2~Glade air freshener~$2.08 each~used $2.00 off 2=$1.08 each

1~Lysol cleaner~$1.89 on sale~used $1.00 off 1=$.89

4~Nivea bodywash~$4.66 each on clearance~used 2 BOGO and 2 $2.00 off 1=$1.33 each for 16.9 oz but each bottle had a 8.4 oz bodywash attached to it so really I got 8 bottles for around $.66 cents each!

2~Pantene conditioner~$3.22 each on clearance~used 2 $1.00 off 1 mfq + 1 $1.00 off 1 tq=$1.72 each and we needed conditioner

4~Olay soap~$.97 each trial section~used $1.00 off 1 mfq=free didn't get the $.03 overage coupon auto adjusted

2~Pantene hairspray~$1.61 each on clearance~used $1.00 off 1 mfq=$.61 cents each

2~Bounty paper towels~$.99 each~used $1.00 off 1 mfq=free

6~Biore facial~$5.94 each~used 3 BOGO mfq=$17.82-$10.00 gift card=$1.30 each

Total $20.83-$.10 for bags=$20.73+tax and I used the gift card to pay for DH's $4.00 prescription.

I like Targets gift card deals. Unlike RR's the gift cards don't expire.

The mail today brought a huge coupon booklet and a rebate check for $2.42!

Money saving tips

The most common question I get in the grocery store is "Where do you get all those coupons?" So I thought I would post some of the ways I end up with so many:

~sometimes I will buy 20 sunday papers if the coupons are really good, at Quick Trip the sunday paper is $2.00 each or 2 for $3.00 so you save $1.00

~DH has a friend that works for the newspaper and will sometimes bring me inserts

~always on the lookout for tear pads, peelies, coupon booklets and blinkies at the grocery store and I have found many good coupons at the gas station. Usually they are on the doors of the cooler area. I never ever take them all.

~print off the internet ( I try to do this sparingly because of the cost of ink, will use rebates, RR and gift cards I have earned to help offset the cost)

~sign up and join sights that will send you coupons

~lots of rebates out there for buy a certain amount of products get coupon booklets I try to take advantage of those

~doctor's office and the dentist always have current magazines just ask first if you can have the coupon (my dentist receptionist has saved them for me! she is so nice!)

~there is one magazine that I do purchase once a month All You magazine and its only sold at WalMart but you can get a subscription, it is full of lots of really good coupons

~e-mail a company and brag about their product you'd be surprised what you get

~have family, friends and neighbors save their coupons for you

~you can purchase coupons from sites on the internet or ebay (its illegal to sell coupons what they are selling is the time they took to clip them sometimes they are called clipping services)

~on packages of products, I always look for packages that have coupons on them or in them


When I tell people I buy 20 newspapers they look at me like I'm crazy but actually it is very cost effective. If I spend $30.00 on newspapers you better believe there are some really really good coupons that weekend. Example being one sunday our region was lucky enough to get the free finish diswashing tablets coupon up to $4.50. So I rec'd $90.00 dollars worth of dishtabs for $30.00 but there were other really good coupons which saved me even more money. I actually had a lady in checkout say "I didn't know you could buy more than 1 sunday paper." You can buy as many as you want just try to find a store that will give you a discount for buying multiples.

A good rule of thumb to go by is buy a newspaper for every member of your family every weekend there are inserts. Coupons are like poker you gotta know when to hold em! Just because you don't need that item that weekend clip it anyway and wait for that rock bottom price, buy as many as you have coupons for that way you never pay full price.

If my budget is tight and there are really good coupons out sometimes I will use gift cards, register rewards and overage to purchase extra newspapers. And I have been known to dumpster dive (paper only!) on occasion, if you do that make sure you know the laws in your state!!

Anyway I could go on and on, the fact is coupons are everywhere you just have to look.

Walgreens deals

2~Renpure shampoo~$6.99 each on sale B1G1 free=$6.99 plus there are hangtags on some bottles for a rebate up to $6.99=2 bottles for free

1~Colgate tootpaste~$2.99~used $1.00 off 1 mfq=$1.99 plus rec'd $2.00 RR=free

1~Goody hairband~$$2.99~no coupon but rec'd $3.00 RR=free DD#2 took it on her way to work before I could take a picture!

Total $11.97-$4.50 from previous RR=$7.47+tax~rec'd $2.00 and $3.00 RR plus will send for the rebate so I will make $4.22! I love money makers!

DH has a doctors appt. tomorrow so I will hit Walgreens again except this time I will get the Organix shampoo thats also B1G1 free and I have a rebate for that in my binder. Wish I had a coupon for the Goody hairbands and I only have 2 more Colgate coupons.

Walgreens deals

2~2 liter Diet DP~$1.00 each~used $.60 cents off 1 mfq=$.40 each

2~Soft Scrub cleaner~$4.39 on sale BOGO free~used $2.00 off 1 mfq=$.19 each

1~EOS shave cream~$2.99~no coupon rec'd RR for $3.00

Total $4.17-$3.00 RR from previous deal=$1.17+tax

I had a RR expiring this weekend and since I'm going out of town again to visit my mom I had to use it. The town my mom lives in doesn't have a Walgreens!!

The only bad thing about RR is they do expire so if I find myself not needing anything I'll roll that RR into another item that produces a RR which basically just extends the expiration date. I had a little difficulty wrapping my brain around the whole RR thing at first but once you get the hang of it everything is a breeze.

Homeland deals

1-Hormel pork roast-$2.99-used $1.00 off 1 mfq=$.99

2-Tuna-$1.49 each-used $1.00 off 2 mfq=$.49 each

2-Bologna-$1.49 each-used $1.00 off 2 mfq=$.49 cents each

1-Bread-$1.49-used $.55 off 1 mfq=$.39 cents

1-Sargento cheese-$2.14-used $.75 off 1 mfq=$.64 cents

1-Ken's dressing-$1.99-used $1.00 off 1 mfq=free

1-Cereal-$2.24-used $.50 off 1 mfq=$1.24

2-Nestle milk-$.79 each-used $1.00 off 2 mfq=free+$.42 cents overage

4-Pork&Beans-$.44 each-used $1.00 off 4 mfq=$.19 cents each (coupon says do not double)

2-Pizza rolls-$1.13 each-used $.40 off 2 mfq=$.73 cents each

1-Bag Pretzels-$1.99-used $.55 off 1 mfq=$.89 cents

1-Tornado-$1.99-used $1.00 off 1 mfq=free

Total $8.33-.84 cents in overage=$7.49+tax plus I picked up more coupons for the free ice cream at Wal-mart!

All coupons doubled except for the pork & beans.

Money saving tips

Thought I would post some more tips:

~hand wash my car in the driveway during summer and use the shop vac

~use shower water to water plants

~make sure to run errands using least amount of gas

~freeze water in 2 liter bottles (we go to the lake in the summer and use the bottles in our ice chest saves on buying ice) this tip actually saved everything in my fridge when we had an ice storm and were without electricity for 7 days

~installed a programable thermostat when we redid the house

~try not to run the AC we have ceiling fans in every room and open the windows

~always try to take my drinks and snacks when running errands

~use my crockpot alot in the summer (have 2 in the house and 2 in the camper)

~use the grill alot in the summer so I don't heat up the house

~don't use the dry setting on the dishwasher

~buy all clothes off season (DH & I maintain pretty much the same weight all the time) I have purchased bathing suits in the winter and coats in the summer

~frequent garage sales and thrift shops

Target deals

I went to Target in hopes of finding the Merona purses on clearance but they didn't have any. Instead I got:

1 Rice Krispies-$3.49 this is the huge box-used $1.00 off 1=$2.49

1 Kraft Mayo-$1.37 on clearance

2 Dr. Pepper-$1.00 each

2 Body Wash-$1.52 each on clearance-used $2.00 off 1 mfq=free+$.96 overage

2 Gillette deodorant-$1.52 each on clearance-used $2.00 mfq=free+$.96 overage

Total $5.86-$1.92 in overage & $.10 cents for my bags=$3.84+tax paid with gift card from previous deal!!

Walgreens deals

I haven't posted in awhile, went out of town to visit my mom. We had so much fun.

2 Rice Krispies-$2.50 each=$5.00 rec'd $2.00 RR

1 8pk Paper Towels-$5.00

1 Coffee Pot-$7.99 ours went out while I was gone, DH had to use the one out of the camper

1 Hydro Razor-$7.99-used $4.00 off 1 peelie=$3.99 rec'd $5.00 RR

2 Lyndsay Olives-$.99 each-used $1.00 off 2 mfq=$.49 each

4 Candy-$.49 each

1 2pk Super Glue-$.99 on clearance

Total $25.91- used $10.00 & $2.00 rr's=$13.91 plus rec'd $7.00 rr's

Sorry the picture is so dark.

Money Saving Tips

Thought I would post a few things we do to try and save money. I don't wash baggies or hang out clothes. Not because those things aren't worth doing but I get baggies for free or pennies and we have a huge dog that would pull all the clothes off the line!

~our peak electric hours are from 2pm to 7pm so all laundry, showers and the dishwasher get done before 2 or after 7

~cut my dryer sheets in half

~use grocery bags for trash can liners

~target price for laundry soap is $2.00 or under for 50 fl ounces always stock up when I can and only use half thats recommended

~hot water tank is turned down until 15 minutes before we take showers then gets turned back down

~all light bulbs changed to energy savers as they go out

~use rechargable batteries but do stock up on regular when they are free

~we have no cell phones (I do not miss mine at all like I thought I would!!)

~we have no cable (some people get no TV reception without cable but we don't have that problem)

~entertainment is Redbox usually with a free code

~if we eat out we always try to use a coupon

~we do have an RV that we take to the lake so thats alot of our entertainment in the summer

Thats all I can think of for now. I will continue to post how we save money as I go along.

Walgreens Deals

Had to run to Walgreens to pick up DH's prescription.

7-Walgreens paper plates-$.75 on clearance

2-Tampax tampons-$1.09 each on clearance-used $2.00 off 1 mfq=free+$1.82 overage

1-Kotex tampon-$3.49-used $1.00 off 1 mfq=$2.49 rec'd rr for $2.50=free

1-Bic razor-$1.89 on clearance-used $2.00 off 1 mfq=free+$.11 overage

10-Pilot pens-$1.19 each-used $1.00 off 1 wagq=$.19 each and will submit for 2 rebates!

Total $9.96-$1.93 overages=$8.03+tax

Walmart Deals

1-Gallon milk-$3.18

1-Strawberry swirl ice cream-$4.97-DH's favorite

1-Blue Bunny vanilla ice cream-$7.48-used $1.00 off 1=$6.48

6-Blue Bunny ice cream sandwich-$1.00 each-used $1.00 off 1 mfq=free

2-Borden cheese-$2.00 each-used free coupon=free

1-cream chicken soup-$1.00

1-enchilada sauce-$1.00

1-dog biscuits-$2.50-used $2.00 off 1 mfq=$.50

1-loaf bread-$1.78

1-onion-$1.11

1-bag chips-$1.75

4-Nesquik-$1.08 each-used $1.00 off 1 mfq=$.08 each

Total $22.09-$5.00 gift card rec'd in the mail=$17.09+tax

Target

I decided to get the camera even though I didn't get any overage items.

1-Kodak Easyshare camera-$89.00-used $10.00 off 1 tq+had $16.49 in gift cards=$62.51

1-REI pillow-$2.54-used $1.50 off 1 tq=$1.04

5-Airwick-$6.00 each-used $2.00 off 1 tq+$4.00 off 1 mfq=free

8-Nesquik mild-$1.00 each-used $1.00 off mfq=free

Total $63.55-$.15 for my bags=$63.40+tax

The cashier forgot to credit my bags so I had to go to customer service.

Shopping Today

Didn't get a chance to take pictures. DD#2 had her camera with her.

Walgreens

2-Mach 3 razors=$9.99 each BOGO 50% off-used BOGO mq and $3.00 off 1=$1.99 for 2 and each pack had $15.00 worth of coupons

3-Pilot highlighter pens-$1.19 each-used $1.00 off 1 ivc=$.19 each and will send for the rebate on package

Target

6-Airwick-$6.00 each-used $5.00 off 1 mfq and $2.00 off 1 tq=free and $6.00 in overage!!

4-Sure deoderant-$1.67 on clearance-used $1.50 off 1 mfq=$.17 each

2-REI pillows-$2.54 each-used $1.50 off 1 tq=$1.04 each

4-Schick Quattro Razors-$6.99 each-used $4.00 off 1 peelie=$1.99 each and rec'd $10.00 gift card made $2.00!!

2-Beneful dog food-$1.87 each-used $3.00 off 1 mfq=free and $2.26 in overage

2-4pk Reveal light bulbs-$2.14 each-used $1.00 of 1 mfq and $1.50 off 1 tq=free and $.72 in overage

2-Fusion razors-$4.99 each-used $5.00 off 1=free and $.2 in overage

Got popcorn and soda.

Walmart:

10-Mighty Dog-$.57 each-used $3.00 off 5=free and $.30 in overage

4-Nesquick choc milk-$1.08 each-used $1.00 off 1=$.08 each

4-Blue Bunny ice cream-$1.00 each-used $1.00 off 1=free

2-Borden string cheese-$2.64 each-used free coupon

Got bread, soda and butter also. I rec'd a $5.00 Walmart gift card in the mail and forgot to use it.

I have my eye on a camera at Target on sale for $89.00. Thought I would do this.

89.00 camera
-13.65 gift cards I have
-10.00 target coupon
=65.35 if I could get 6 airwick and use the overage toward the total
-6.00
=59.35 use 6 dog food overage
-6.78
=52.57 not bad

I might go back tomorrow and do that!!

Garage Sale Success

We did good:

Thursday-opened 9am to 4pm made=$700.00

Friday-rained out

Saturday-opened 9am to 1pm made=$385.00 not counting the $310.00 that DD#1 made!

We will have another one the 1st of May.

Garage Sale

We are having our first Garage Sale of the year this weekend, thought I would post a couple of pictures.

I would much rather go to a garage sale than have one. My feet and back are killing me!

We have alot more stuff to put out, this is just inside the garage. Some people are fortunate to have plenty of room to store their stockpile but our small house will only hold so much. After doing the good deals all winter I was running out of room!! Even though I give alot stuff away and donate it piles up. My grown kids never have to buy shampoo, deodorant, razors, bodywash or any household goods for that matter. They call me MomMart.

Hope we have lots of customers and the weather stays nice!!

Homeland Deals

Homeland will double coupons up to a $1.00 but only one like coupon. DD#1 went with me since she didn't have to be at work until 2pm today, so that we could do 2 transactions. You do have to have a Homeland Shopper Card to get the sale price. All the coupons we used were doubled.

2-Era detergent-$3.49-used $1.00 off 1=$1.49 each

2-Pie crusts-$2.49 each-used $1.00 off 2=$1.49 each

2-Chinet napkings-$1.50 each-used $.75 off 1=free

1-Chinet coffe cups-$2.50-used buy any chinet pkg get free cups=free

1-Chinet cups-$2.50-used buy any chinet pkg get free cups=free

2-BC cake mix-$1.00 each-used $.75 off 2=$.25 cents each

2-BC frosting-$1.00 each-used $.75 off 2=$.25 cents each

2-Vegetable oil-$.39 cents each when you buy cake mix and frosting

2-Emerald nuts-$3.50 each-used $1.00 off 1=$1.50 each these are normally $4.99 & up!

4- Yakisoba noodles-$1.00 each-used $1.00 off 2=free

1-4lb Sugar-$1.59 on sale

1-Lays chips-$2.50-used $1.00 off 1=$.50 cents

2-Starkist tuna salad-$1.49 each-used $1.00 off 2=$.49 cents each I like to have things like this in the pantry for DH in case I'm not here

1-Daisy sour cream-$3.45 just realized this was supposed to ring up $1.79 didn't see it until I got home-used $.50 cents off 1=$2.45 should have been $.79 cents!!

2-Reddi-Whip-$1.99 each-used $.50 cents off 1=$.99 each

Total $17.25+tax plus we found coupon flyers with lots of good coupons!!

Walgreens again

I forgot to grab the Redbox movie on my way out this morning, so had to run back to Walgreens. What I got:

1-gallon milk-$2.69

2-Folgers coffee-$5.99 each-used $1.00 off 2=$5.49 each

1-Ruffles-$1.99

6-Candy bars-$.39 cents with in ad coupon

Total $18.33 used 3 $4.00 rr from dove shampoo+1 $2.00 rr from floss=$4.33+tax


We were almost out of coffee and the milk is the cheapest I have seen it in awhile.

Huge Walmart Run

Usually don't do real big runs at Walmart because their registers are programmed to call a CSM when you reach over $40.00 in coupons but I had alot of coupons that are going to expire tomorrow.

35-Mighty Dog-$.57 each-used $3.00 off 5=free $1.05 in overage

10-Old Spice trial body wash-$.97 each-used $3.00 off 2=free $5.30 in overage

7-Clean&Clear trial face wash-$.97 each-used $1.00 off 1=free $.21 cents in overage

12-Martha White muffin mix-$.78 each-used $1.00 off 4=$.53 cents each

4-Snuggle-$3.48 each-used $3.00 off 1=$.48 cents each

3-Airwick-$6.00 each-used $5.00 off 1=$1.00 each

4-Ravioli-$.92 each-used B3G1 free and $1.00 off 4=$.44 cents each will use for rebate purchased separate

4-Parkay butter-$1.00 each-used $1.00 off 2=$.50 cents each

2-Borden cheese-$2.64 each-used free mfq=free

1-2liter Diet Dr. Pepper-$1.00

1 2liter Diet Pepsi-$1.00

1-Farmland ham-$10.01-used $2.00 off 1 mfq=$8.01 for easter dinner

1-Rice Krispies-$3.50-no coupon this is a huge box my price point for cereal usually is a dollar but DH was out

1-2.5lbs Bananas-$1.21-used get $1.00 off fruit when you buy Rice Krispies mfq=$.21 cents

2-Birds Eye frozen veggies-$1.00 each used $.35 cents off 1=$.65 cents each

1- Banquet Dinner-$2.42-used $1.50 off 1=$.92 cents will use for rebate of full purchase price so a money maker!!

1-Dozen eggs-$.38 cents price matched

1-10lb Potatoes (not pictured)-$1.38 price matched

Total $29.24-6.56 in overage=$22.68+tax plus the rebates

Walgreens Deals

1 Cottonelle 12pk double rolls-$6.99-used $1.00 off 1 wags coupon and $1.00 off 1 mfq=$4.99

1-Dove shampoo-$4.00-used $1.50 mfq=$2.50 rec'd $4.00 rr

1-Dentek floss-$2.00-used $1.00 off 1=$1.00 rec'd $2.00 rr

2-Reach toothbrushes-$3.99 each-used BOGO mfq=$3.99 rec'd rr for free toothbrush up to $5.49

2-Peanut butter crackers-.99 each

3-Airwick-$3.99 each-used $4.00 off 1=free .03 cents overage

Total $14.16-$5.00 rr from Benedryl=$9.16+tax and rec'd $11.49 in rr!!

Target was a bust!

I went to take advantage of the ink/gift card deal, but they were all out of my kind. Did get:

1-Aiwick-$6.00-used $5.00 off 1=$1.00 the only one on the shelf

1-Sally Hansen nail polish-$1.01 on clearance-used $1.00 off 1 peelie=.01

1-Kit Kat-.67 no coupon and I ate it on the way to Walgreens

Total-$1.63+tax including .05 credit for my bag

Staying organized

Thought I would post my binders, well actually they are CD holders. They were purchased for $3.00 each at Big Lots. Best $6.00 investment I ever made. They have lasted 5 years. I seldom have to fold a coupon and each pocket holds alot. One is food and one is non-food.

Let me say that I am not that organized. What organization skills I do have must have come from my Aunt Glo, she is THE most organized person ever!!

Anyway, some people use different filing methods but I find this works for me. I clip and file everything because I learned the hard way, you never know when your going to run into a manager's special or a clearance. We live in a rural area so running home to get my coupons and running back to the store is not an option, especially with gas prices.

The binders get cleaned out once a month and I file every Sunday evening.

The first picture is the filing system for rebates. I have it on a little desk in the dining room, every time I return from the store the receipts are put in a draw. It gets cleaned out once every 3 to 5 months. I love rebates especially when the item was free to begin with!!

Walgreens Deals

2 Dove shampoos-$4.oo-used $1.50 off 1=$2.50 each rec'd 2 $4.00 RR (register rewards) these were rang up separate

1 Dove conditioner-$4.00-used $1.50 off 1=$2.50 each rec'd 1 $4.00 RR

2 Benadryl-$4.99-used $2.00 off 1 mfq and $1.00 wags coupon=$1.99 each rec'd $5.00 RR for buying 2

2 Airwick-$3.99-used $4.00 off 1=free-.2 cents overage

2 2pk Reach toothbrush-$3.00 each-used BOGO free coupon and $1.00 off 1=$1.00 each I thought it would generate a RR but the cashier said it was single packs only, still a good deal if you need toothbrushes

1-Dentek Floss-$2.00-used $1.00 off 1=$1.00-rec'd $2.00 RR

1-Dulcolax-$10.00-used $4.00 off 1=$6.00-rec'd $10.00 RR

Total $20.46+tax Rec'd $29.00 in RR's

The first Walgreens didn't have the Simply Saline, so I stopped at another on the way home and they didn't have any either. I'll wait a few days to see if they restock. My 2nd stop I did get:

Sorry didn't take a picture.

1-gallon of milk=$2.69 on sale

1-2liter diet dr pepper=$1.89

1-2liter diet pepsi=$1.89

1-loaf of bread=$1.50

1-Dove shampoo=$4.00-used $1.50 off 1=$2.50-rec'd another $4.00 RR

Total $10.47 paid with the $10.00 rr from the Dulcolax deal oop .47 cents+ tax and I rec'd another $4.00 rr!!

Normally I would never pay $1.89 for a 2 liter but we were completely out and DH asked me to pick some up. I was feeling under the weather earlier today and just wanted to get back home.

The Walgreens deals are really good this week, several free after RR.

Reasors Deals

2 Sunny D-.98 each with in ad coupon-used .25 off 1 mfq=.73 each

4 Buddig lunch meat-$1.50 each with in ad coupon-used $1.00 off 1 mfq=.50 each

2 Chunky soup-$1.67 each-used .50 off 2=$1.42 each

1 Box of crackers-$2.00 used $1.00 off 1 tearpad when you buy soup=$1.00

1 Gatorade-$1.00 used .50 off 1 mfq=.50

Total $7.80+tax for 10 items.


I have a love/hate relationship with Reasors. I love their meat and their 8hr sales. They usually are tearpad/peelie heaven and you can use a Reasors coupon with a MFQ.


They have refused a coupon before because I didn't get what was pictured even though the coupon stated any. They do not except printed coupons. They NEVER double coupons not even once in awhile. All I ask is have a double coupon weekend sometimes pleeese!!

Target Deals

4 STD pillows $2.54-used $1.50 off tq (target coupon)=$1.04 each

2 Beach towels $2.50-used $2.oo off=.50 each

4 Act II popcorn $1.00-used $1.00 off 2 mfq=.50 each found these in the dollar spot

4 Planters peanuts $2.37 on clearance used $1.00 off 2 mfq=$1.87 each

4 Hidden Valley Ranch dressing $2.99 used $2.00 off 1 mfq=.99 each

2 Olay soaps .97 used $1.00 off 1=.6 cents overage these were in the trial size section

1 Tide laundry soap $5.24 on clearance used $1.00 off 1 tq plus a $1.00 off 1 mfq=$3.24

1 Tide stain release $6.99 used free if you buy detergent mfq=free



Total $19.80 used $16.10 in gift cards I got from a previous deal so oop was $3.70+tax!!


I walked right out of the house and forgot my recycle bags. Target will take off .5 cents for every bag you use. It doesn't have to be their bags it can be any recycle bag. There are several ways to get these free or really cheap. Another great thing about Target is their coupon policy, you can use a TQ and a MFQ on the same item. I love Target!!!

Rebates in the mail

Received rebate check from accu-chek for $9.99.


Last weeks total was $23.99 in rebates.

Walmart Deals

5 Monopoly games-$7.00 each ( price matched Target ad ) used $5.oo coupon=$10.00

4 Borden cheese-$2.18 each used free coupon=free

3 Peter Pan peanut butter-$2.00 each used B2G1 and $1.00 off 2=$3.00 will use for rebate

2 Clairol hair color-$3.00 each on clearance used $5.oo off 2=$1.00

2 All you magazines-$2.24 each used .50 off=$3.38 lots of coupons

Total $17.38+tax

Went to 2 different Targets looking for the Monopoly game, both were sold out. One good thing about Walmart is their price match policy. The games will be put in the gift closet.

Conagra Foods has a rebate form in the All You magazine, if you buy $10 in participating brands they will send you $25 in coupons. The peanut butter will be used towards that rebate. Perfect timing as we were out!