I've noticed on many blogs lately, lots of negative comments - especially the well this doesn't work for me! or I don't have time for that! or the old, that's not good for the environment!
I say to each his own. I enjoy reading other blogs, and while somethings wouldn't work for my household, I learn a lot, find out about new things we just HAVE to have, and I find out about lots of great deals!
If someone finds something great in my blog, a good idea to help them cut costs or a sale/coupon they didn't know about, I'm glad I was able to help you out!
Really, I am just writing things that work in my life, and work for my family. It's not a cookie cutter world so I don't expect everyone who stumbles onto my blog to agree with my thoughts, or think that deals I think are great are really great.
I do realize that a lot of the things we use aren't great for our carbon footprint. I suppose I could buy a giant container instead of several smaller ones, but they won't always fit in my fridge, or stay fresh when our family is smaller. I do recycle everything that I can, and I often reuse things (cat litter pail container gardens, anyone?) Yes, I buy junk food, and not everything's organic. Oh well - I buy whatever is a good deal that keeps in our budget so I can be a SAHM. :)
31 May 2008
The Big Box Stores
I always used to think that the big box stores (Costco, Sam's Club, etc) were a total waste of money UNLESS you were shopping for a huge family on time constraints.
No huge family here. Well, unless you count the pets... then maybe....
Seriously, for the vast majority of folks, buying at the grocery store is really cheaper, especially when you are combining coupons with the sales.
So I'm still not entirely sure how I got roped into splitting a Costco membership with my brother. I think the cheaper gas hooked me in, and then staring at the giant boxes of stuff, well, I think I had a moment of insanity.
In all fairness, they did give me a booklet of coupons when we signed up that semi-covered the $25 I put into it (free chicken!). And with the few times DH has filled up for gas (my only complaint is that you have to use plastic to get gas) I'm sure we're even already, and we've only had the membership since April.
However, I never come out of there with much. Here's an example of my normal Costco shopping list:
*6pk of Romaine lettuce - $2.99 (best I can usually find is $1.99 for 3)
*1lb package of Organic Greens (for the bunnies) $3.99 ($2 cheaper than anywhere else, so this is a deal for us)
*2 pack of Velveeta cheese - $7.99 (which is the same price as Target, $3.99 each, so not really a savings here)
*6lb 5 oz can of Del Monte Green Beans - $2.79 (buying single cans on sale probably equals about the same, but there's weeks we tend to use a lot of green beans and with freezer space limited, I like to keep at least one giant can on hand)
*Mission Tortillas, burrito size, 40 per package - $4.99 (it's rare I can beat the price with coupons at the other stores)
I did purchase a new bed for our doggy at $17.99 that was a STEAL. Usually that size you are lucky to find for $50 at a pet store, so that definitely evened out the cost of the membership. And once I purchased the giant 2 pack of Nutella (my weakness!) It was gone faster than I care to admit. ;) We also tried their 40 lb jug of cat litter (the brand eludes me at the moment, I think it was Cat's Pride?) and that was a total waste. It only made the litter boxes worse. We'll stick to Tidy Cats.
So, really, for the little bit we save, it's kind of lost when you think we have a 15 minute drive to get to Costco. We've only averaged about a trip every 3 weeks or so, and for that little bit we buy... I won't be renewing.
Anyone found any deals at Costco that's been great for them?
No huge family here. Well, unless you count the pets... then maybe....
Seriously, for the vast majority of folks, buying at the grocery store is really cheaper, especially when you are combining coupons with the sales.
So I'm still not entirely sure how I got roped into splitting a Costco membership with my brother. I think the cheaper gas hooked me in, and then staring at the giant boxes of stuff, well, I think I had a moment of insanity.
In all fairness, they did give me a booklet of coupons when we signed up that semi-covered the $25 I put into it (free chicken!). And with the few times DH has filled up for gas (my only complaint is that you have to use plastic to get gas) I'm sure we're even already, and we've only had the membership since April.
However, I never come out of there with much. Here's an example of my normal Costco shopping list:
*6pk of Romaine lettuce - $2.99 (best I can usually find is $1.99 for 3)
*1lb package of Organic Greens (for the bunnies) $3.99 ($2 cheaper than anywhere else, so this is a deal for us)
*2 pack of Velveeta cheese - $7.99 (which is the same price as Target, $3.99 each, so not really a savings here)
*6lb 5 oz can of Del Monte Green Beans - $2.79 (buying single cans on sale probably equals about the same, but there's weeks we tend to use a lot of green beans and with freezer space limited, I like to keep at least one giant can on hand)
*Mission Tortillas, burrito size, 40 per package - $4.99 (it's rare I can beat the price with coupons at the other stores)
I did purchase a new bed for our doggy at $17.99 that was a STEAL. Usually that size you are lucky to find for $50 at a pet store, so that definitely evened out the cost of the membership. And once I purchased the giant 2 pack of Nutella (my weakness!) It was gone faster than I care to admit. ;) We also tried their 40 lb jug of cat litter (the brand eludes me at the moment, I think it was Cat's Pride?) and that was a total waste. It only made the litter boxes worse. We'll stick to Tidy Cats.
So, really, for the little bit we save, it's kind of lost when you think we have a 15 minute drive to get to Costco. We've only averaged about a trip every 3 weeks or so, and for that little bit we buy... I won't be renewing.
Anyone found any deals at Costco that's been great for them?
Identity Theft - Being Careful
Most days my mailbox is pretty full with fun things. It's rare that we get a bill or statement in the mail since we pretty much pay and receive everything online. But all those freebies and magazines still have personal information on them!
Every magazine we receive, before I recycle or donate, I make sure to cut or peel off the entire label - including any numbers that might be used as an account number.
Any packaging from the freebies I also make sure to cut or peel off our mailing label. If it's from something that could be even remotely personal (such as a medical freebie), I make sure that the paperwork is shredded as well.
Nothing goes into my trash or recycling that has our address on it - all these labels and shredded papers end up in our fireplace. I know not everyone has a fireplace, but this works for us. I'd rather be safe than sorry.
I make sure not to mail anything from our mailbox if I can help it - 99% of any of our outgoing mail gets dropped off INSIDE the post office when we go past doing our errands. I am also lucky enough to be able to be home most days when they mail is delivered, so I go out right away to pick up our mail - this way it is not sitting there, where someone could easily open up our mailbox in search of valuable information (plus - I worked hard for those freebies! I don't want anyone to steal them from me! LOL)
Every magazine we receive, before I recycle or donate, I make sure to cut or peel off the entire label - including any numbers that might be used as an account number.
Any packaging from the freebies I also make sure to cut or peel off our mailing label. If it's from something that could be even remotely personal (such as a medical freebie), I make sure that the paperwork is shredded as well.
Nothing goes into my trash or recycling that has our address on it - all these labels and shredded papers end up in our fireplace. I know not everyone has a fireplace, but this works for us. I'd rather be safe than sorry.
I make sure not to mail anything from our mailbox if I can help it - 99% of any of our outgoing mail gets dropped off INSIDE the post office when we go past doing our errands. I am also lucky enough to be able to be home most days when they mail is delivered, so I go out right away to pick up our mail - this way it is not sitting there, where someone could easily open up our mailbox in search of valuable information (plus - I worked hard for those freebies! I don't want anyone to steal them from me! LOL)
30 May 2008
Why Samples Rock My World
Oh, do I ever love them (and coupons that arrive in the mail too!).
Today's mail haul was only a sample of Degree deodorant, but it will come in handy for DH to have in his locker at work.
I love that I can sometimes try a new product before I decide to buy it, especially when it comes to hair care products (DH has benefited from lots of stuff I deemed only made my hair dry or straggly, etc - luckily he doesn't care much what he uses on his hair!)
I can sometimes make gift baskets with them. At one point, there were several coupons in the Sunday paper for free chocolate. I combined this with several free popcorn samples I had received and a cheap movie, and I had a really nice gift basket for someone.
They come in handy when we travel. Our family is at different points of the country, so it's nice to have the small sizes that will fit into our carry-ons that are TSA approved - and especially not have to pay for them.
We have an "emergency/what if the car breaks down somewhere" bag that we keep with several things in it, including a change of clothes for each of us (which we change out seasonally), a well stocked first aid kit, and several samples including deodarant, sunscreen, and lotions. (Actually, this idea was started for us when my husband worked on one side of the bridge, and we lived on the other. The first time it was closed due the weather we went ahead and put this together just in case he was stranded)
DH keeps H&B samples in his locker at work, as well as in a small bag he carries with his change of clothes. He also benefits from any snack samples that walk in the door (his favorite!)
And best of all, if I run out of something from my stock pile, the samples can help us hang on until the next planned shopping trip. This usually happens with shampoo (which almost happened again, had I not been going to Rite Aid for the FAR Colgate toothbrush, I probably would have forgotten DH's shampoo!)
I keep all my health and beauty samples organized via several clear shoe box size totes - 97 cents each at Wal-mart. (This also works with full size smaller products like toothpaste and deodorants) I have them stacked on the shelf in the bathroom and I can easily find what I am looking for. This way the samples get used, and not hidden in drawers and corners where I will forget about them until the next time we move. ;)
Today's mail haul was only a sample of Degree deodorant, but it will come in handy for DH to have in his locker at work.
I love that I can sometimes try a new product before I decide to buy it, especially when it comes to hair care products (DH has benefited from lots of stuff I deemed only made my hair dry or straggly, etc - luckily he doesn't care much what he uses on his hair!)
I can sometimes make gift baskets with them. At one point, there were several coupons in the Sunday paper for free chocolate. I combined this with several free popcorn samples I had received and a cheap movie, and I had a really nice gift basket for someone.
They come in handy when we travel. Our family is at different points of the country, so it's nice to have the small sizes that will fit into our carry-ons that are TSA approved - and especially not have to pay for them.
We have an "emergency/what if the car breaks down somewhere" bag that we keep with several things in it, including a change of clothes for each of us (which we change out seasonally), a well stocked first aid kit, and several samples including deodarant, sunscreen, and lotions. (Actually, this idea was started for us when my husband worked on one side of the bridge, and we lived on the other. The first time it was closed due the weather we went ahead and put this together just in case he was stranded)
DH keeps H&B samples in his locker at work, as well as in a small bag he carries with his change of clothes. He also benefits from any snack samples that walk in the door (his favorite!)
And best of all, if I run out of something from my stock pile, the samples can help us hang on until the next planned shopping trip. This usually happens with shampoo (which almost happened again, had I not been going to Rite Aid for the FAR Colgate toothbrush, I probably would have forgotten DH's shampoo!)
I keep all my health and beauty samples organized via several clear shoe box size totes - 97 cents each at Wal-mart. (This also works with full size smaller products like toothpaste and deodorants) I have them stacked on the shelf in the bathroom and I can easily find what I am looking for. This way the samples get used, and not hidden in drawers and corners where I will forget about them until the next time we move. ;)
Be On the Lookout!
If you're signed up with the Pepsi Xtras emails, you should be receiving an email with contests to sign up for, as well as a link to print 2 more free Fruitista Freeze with any purchase coupons! (hit the back button after the first one prints to get the second one) Over here they are $1.89 each so this is a great deal for DH.
29 May 2008
Bringing Home the Deals
Gas is now $4.15 here in Western WA.
Here's what I brought home today:
Rite-Aid:
Colgate 360 Deep Clean toothbrush: $2.99, free after rebate
VO5 shampoo: 79 cents (DH was about to run out so this was an emergency grab)
Wal-Mart:
Friskies 3.5 lb cat food $4.17 - $4 printable coupon on Give A Bowl website
Here's what I brought home today:
Rite-Aid:
Colgate 360 Deep Clean toothbrush: $2.99, free after rebate
VO5 shampoo: 79 cents (DH was about to run out so this was an emergency grab)
Total Cost: $4.11 before rebate, $1.12 after
Wal-Mart:
Friskies 3.5 lb cat food $4.17 - $4 printable coupon on Give A Bowl website
Total Cost: .55 after coupons
Safeway:
Tidy Cats 20 lb jug cat litter: $6.99 (w/ peelie coupon attached for free treats!)
Whisker Lickins cat treats $2.89 - $2.89 peelie free coupon
Lucerne Dozen large eggs - $1
Safeway 100% Apple Juice 64 oz - $1
Safeway Diet Cola 2 litres (2) - 50 cents each - $1
Strawberries 4lbs - $4.00
Total Cost - $14.93 (Total savings 58%, $19.65 after sales & coupons)
Walgreens (transaction #1):
Kashi Cereal - $2.50 minues $2 printable on Kashi website - 50 cents
Chex Mix 8.7oz - 99 cents minus $1 printable from MyPoints coupons
Total cost - $0.50 after coupons
Walgreens (transaction #2):
Kashi cereal - $2.50 minus $2 printable on Kashi website - 50 cents
Chex Mix 8.7 oz - 99 cents minus $1 printable from MyPoints coupons
Scrubbing Bubbles Toilet Cleaner Refill - $2.29 (clearance find)
Total Cost - $2.99 after coupons
Albertsons:
Tava Fiesta - $2.50 sale minus $1.50 printable MyPoints coupon
Hamburger Helper (2 boxes) - 2/$3 sale minus $1/2 printable MyPoints coupon
Knudsen Sour Cream - $2.50 minus free coupon from Kraft House Party
Total Cost - $3.22 after coupons
Fred Meyer:
Hormel Turkey Chili - on sale for 79 cents (I grabbed 2)
Daisy Sour Cream 8 oz - on sale for $1, minus 50 cents Sunday paper coupon
Total cost - $2.08
Unfortunately, half of my list for Albertsons and some for Safeway they were out of on the shelves, so I will try to go back on Tuesday and get them then (if not I will get a raincheck for the sale items, especially the chicken at Safeway!)
The clerk at Walgreen's did hem and haw over my Chex Mix printables, something about it having APO/FPO on the info lines for the store, and her not understanding what APO is (How can you live smack in the middle of all these bases and not understand that?!) I didn't have any problems at Wal-Mart with my printable at least (I usually just stick to using printables at Albertsons because they never give me problems vs other stores that tend to change their mind on what day it is *sigh*)
I really wish I could have done better, but this week seems kind of dead in the deals we can use. The Hamburger Helper goes into our emergency rations/I don't want to cook stash, the Chex Mix is for DH to take with him this coming week since he is going straight from class to work and needs some snacks. We do have a ton of cereal at the moment, but since the deals work in cycles, I'm glad to be well stocked on that. The Scrubbing Bubbles I think there might be a coupon out on it, but I didn't have any myself. I know it isn't that great of a deal for some, but I confess, I have to have those since I married my DH, or I'll go insane. It's one of my necessary needs. ;)
28 May 2008
Be On the Lookout!
In my MBA/Bank of America statement today, there were two coupons for McDonald's - one for a free chicken biscuit, one for a free chicken sandwich, both no purchase neccesary! DH is going to be thrilled because he passes one right on the way to class.
Life Without Cable
When we moved, we found out Comcast wasn't available in our area. So I did some homework, to see what was available... and when I got quotes, I almost choked. We were paying about $73 for digital cable & high speed cable internet... here they wanted $200 for the same thing!
Um, no, don't think so. I love you cable, I'll miss my VOD like you won't believe, but I am NOT paying that much for you. So we went with Qwest, a much slower connection, really - 1.5mpbs vs 7 - but it's $36.99 (still more than Comcast, but cheaper than everything else), and I still have my internet fix which was most important.
It's actually not that bad without cable. Really, I swear. The library has been our saving grace - we are able to check out TV series for 3 weeks at a time, for free. Once a month I go through and add different TV shows to our que (we are able to use inter-library loans too, so we get a huge selection!), and once they come into our local library, they hold them for 5 business days so we have time to pick them up on our next trip into town. We can also check out any movies for free, but most of those need to be returned after 3 days, and at the cost of gasoline, unless I know for sure we have a reason to be in town, I'm not willing to do it. In the long run, it's actually cheaper to take advantage then of the $1 a day movie rental box at Fred Myers (DH passes it on the way to class) than to pay the gas to go further to the library in town.
We've talked about adding NetFlix, but I don't see the point in spending the money at the moment until we've run out of TV shows to watch through the library. And I have to say I'm enjoying it, because I have watched some shows I probably would never have bothered with to begin with (because I am usually all about TLC, HGTV, etc) and it's been a pleasant change.
Um, no, don't think so. I love you cable, I'll miss my VOD like you won't believe, but I am NOT paying that much for you. So we went with Qwest, a much slower connection, really - 1.5mpbs vs 7 - but it's $36.99 (still more than Comcast, but cheaper than everything else), and I still have my internet fix which was most important.
It's actually not that bad without cable. Really, I swear. The library has been our saving grace - we are able to check out TV series for 3 weeks at a time, for free. Once a month I go through and add different TV shows to our que (we are able to use inter-library loans too, so we get a huge selection!), and once they come into our local library, they hold them for 5 business days so we have time to pick them up on our next trip into town. We can also check out any movies for free, but most of those need to be returned after 3 days, and at the cost of gasoline, unless I know for sure we have a reason to be in town, I'm not willing to do it. In the long run, it's actually cheaper to take advantage then of the $1 a day movie rental box at Fred Myers (DH passes it on the way to class) than to pay the gas to go further to the library in town.
We've talked about adding NetFlix, but I don't see the point in spending the money at the moment until we've run out of TV shows to watch through the library. And I have to say I'm enjoying it, because I have watched some shows I probably would never have bothered with to begin with (because I am usually all about TLC, HGTV, etc) and it's been a pleasant change.
Grocery Deals of the Week
I'm always excited to see the new ads in the paper (Fred Meyer, Walgreen's) and mail (everyone else, lol) It looks like this week, Safeway is the store running away with the award for the best loss leaders - but there's a catch.
The good stuff is all on coupons that you can use with a minimum $10 purchase (grrr) The coupons I am thrilled with -
* 4 lbs of strawberries for $4, limit 1 (yeah!)
* 2Safeway soda 2 litres 50 cents each, limit 2 (DH loves his caffeine lol)
* Safeway brand Apple Juice 64 oz, limit 1 $1
* Dozen large eggs $1, limit 1 (about time someone had this deal again!)
I went through the circular looking for good deals to match up with my coupons and didn't really stumble onto anything wonderful like the free Glade air freshner last week. However, they do have the 20lb jugs of Tidy Cats litter on sale for $6.99, so I'll use that towards my $10 purchase, and they also have the 1 lb bags of Fresh Express lettuce on sale for $1 - not a great deal, but it would be nice to not have to cut lettuce for a meal. I'm thinking I'll try to hit up the meat aisle and see if there is any marked down meat for dinner to make it to my total. If not, they do have their Oven Joy bread on sale for 99 cents, but that is still 10 cents more than Fred Meyer's FMV brand at 89 cents so I'd rather not waste it on that if I don't have to. I guess we'll see when I go shopping tomorrow.
The good stuff is all on coupons that you can use with a minimum $10 purchase (grrr) The coupons I am thrilled with -
* 4 lbs of strawberries for $4, limit 1 (yeah!)
* 2Safeway soda 2 litres 50 cents each, limit 2 (DH loves his caffeine lol)
* Safeway brand Apple Juice 64 oz, limit 1 $1
* Dozen large eggs $1, limit 1 (about time someone had this deal again!)
I went through the circular looking for good deals to match up with my coupons and didn't really stumble onto anything wonderful like the free Glade air freshner last week. However, they do have the 20lb jugs of Tidy Cats litter on sale for $6.99, so I'll use that towards my $10 purchase, and they also have the 1 lb bags of Fresh Express lettuce on sale for $1 - not a great deal, but it would be nice to not have to cut lettuce for a meal. I'm thinking I'll try to hit up the meat aisle and see if there is any marked down meat for dinner to make it to my total. If not, they do have their Oven Joy bread on sale for 99 cents, but that is still 10 cents more than Fred Meyer's FMV brand at 89 cents so I'd rather not waste it on that if I don't have to. I guess we'll see when I go shopping tomorrow.
26 May 2008
Summer Inventory
I confess that when we moved in here last year, we basically just put things wherever we could fit them. Things weren't even close to being organized in my cabinents. I have been after DH for weeks now to help me clean out the kitchen and organize it. (I would have taken before pictures to show you exactly how bad it looked to me, but I cannot find the battery recharger at the moment) I finally managed to corner the poor man yesterday and we set about attacking it.
I took everything out of all of the cabinents that held any form of food. Luckily there was virtually nothing that needed thrown away due to the date (phew!) Everything is now sorted on the shelves as what it is and by date (expiring soonest at the front, of course) It took us longer than I expected (almost 3 hours) but that was because we changed our mind on where to put things a couple of times.
It feels GREAT having it organized, especially because now I can actually get to my canned goods now that they are in a different cabinent (They had been shoved into a corner cabinent and it was horrible trying to get into it at an angle and see what I had) I now have an excuse to do more shopping though, because my stash just isn't what I thought it was. I would really like to have at least a good 6 month supply of dry and canned goods in here, just in case something happens (weather wise, even higher gas prices etc)
I took everything out of all of the cabinents that held any form of food. Luckily there was virtually nothing that needed thrown away due to the date (phew!) Everything is now sorted on the shelves as what it is and by date (expiring soonest at the front, of course) It took us longer than I expected (almost 3 hours) but that was because we changed our mind on where to put things a couple of times.
It feels GREAT having it organized, especially because now I can actually get to my canned goods now that they are in a different cabinent (They had been shoved into a corner cabinent and it was horrible trying to get into it at an angle and see what I had) I now have an excuse to do more shopping though, because my stash just isn't what I thought it was. I would really like to have at least a good 6 month supply of dry and canned goods in here, just in case something happens (weather wise, even higher gas prices etc)
Good Deal Alert! (YMMV)
My local Albertson's (WA) had 4.2 oz tubes of Colgate Total on clearance for $1.49. If you just received the sample of Colgate Total in the mail this last week or two, you should have received a $1.50 off any 4 oz or larger tube - this makes it free! If you are lucky enough to have an Albertson's that gives you overage, I guess you can get that extra penny to apply towards tax (though mine doesn't allow for that)
Also, Rite Aid has the Colgate 360 toothbrushes free after rebate this week if you weren't aware (I'm hoping to head over there later today) They are on sale for $2.99, and you can fill out their online rebate program to get a check back in the mail for the amount. I believe there are some coupons floating around on them as well that could give you overage for other stuff too!
Also, Rite Aid has the Colgate 360 toothbrushes free after rebate this week if you weren't aware (I'm hoping to head over there later today) They are on sale for $2.99, and you can fill out their online rebate program to get a check back in the mail for the amount. I believe there are some coupons floating around on them as well that could give you overage for other stuff too!
24 May 2008
Quick Shopping Trip
DH had to run to work for a few minutes today, so I decided to take advantage and grab a few things. I still had a coupon for $1 off Glade air freshner, so I ran into Safeway to use it. At Walgreen's, I had a coupon for a free 16.9 oz Iceland water (Entertainment book), so I grabbed that, and I used the coupon for 99 cents for their potting soil. (I'm trying one more time to get some seedlings going, call me a glutton for punishment!)
I also ran into Fred Meyer's to get two more packages of the ground hamburger ($4.95 each) I also got a pound of their coleslaw for 79 cents for when we BBQ tomorrow.
I'm eagerly awaiting the ads in tomorrow's paper to see if there's anything good this week.
I also ran into Fred Meyer's to get two more packages of the ground hamburger ($4.95 each) I also got a pound of their coleslaw for 79 cents for when we BBQ tomorrow.
I'm eagerly awaiting the ads in tomorrow's paper to see if there's anything good this week.
23 May 2008
Dollar Tree Seeds: Good Deal?
I purchase some seeds at Dollar Tree about a month ago and have given them a try. I bought basil, corn, marigolds, cantaloupe, and yellow beans. Since they were 10 for $1, I figured I couldn't loose.
I lost. I know my seedlings have been a disaster this year, but only the beans have sprouted 100%. I have one container of cantalopes with two plants hanging on as well. Nothing else even sprouted besides those. (In comparison, the seeds from Home Depot, while they all bit the dust later due to my frost mishap, all sprouted) I was really hoping the basil would be a good one.
Well, here's hoping the beans do well and give us a bountiful harvest. I won't be buying my seeds from DT again.
I lost. I know my seedlings have been a disaster this year, but only the beans have sprouted 100%. I have one container of cantalopes with two plants hanging on as well. Nothing else even sprouted besides those. (In comparison, the seeds from Home Depot, while they all bit the dust later due to my frost mishap, all sprouted) I was really hoping the basil would be a good one.
Well, here's hoping the beans do well and give us a bountiful harvest. I won't be buying my seeds from DT again.
Shopping Deals!
Yesterday I hit up several places to take advantage of some loss leaders deals. The end is pretty much here for my being able to shop multiple times per week though, as gas is now $4.05 here now. :(
At Albertson's, I was able to combine a free Oscar Myers weiners coupon with their BOG2F deal - so I received 3 packages of hot dogs for free!
At Safeway, Glade Air Freshners were on sale for $1 each. I had two $1 off coupons (Fun and Family magazine insert - I believe Better Homes and Gardens had them as well as Parenting), so all I had to pay was 17 cents tax for 2 of them!
At Fred Meyer, through Saturday they currently have 5 pound packages of ground hamburger for $4.95 each! Limit 2. This is a great deal, so if you have one nearby you may want to hit them up. I cut mine into 5 sections, then throw them in a ziplock in the freezer. Kraft BBQ sause is 69 cents each with the coupon in their sales ad (limit 3), and Bar S hot dogs for 69 cents each (limit 6 with coupon from ad). They also have their Big K soda 7 12 packs for $10 (with coupon from ad) - a great deal for the soda drinkers! I took advantage of the BBQ as it's something we use a lot here.
Last night we had a nice cheap dinner of Sloppy Joes with $1 worth of the hamburger, a package of the 39 cent hamburger buns, and a 25 cent can of sauce. (and I have leftovers!) We also used a buy one order of Onion Rings, get another free from A&W that was in the local Entertainment book this year to have with it as a treat ($2.55+ tax total for both).
At Albertson's, I was able to combine a free Oscar Myers weiners coupon with their BOG2F deal - so I received 3 packages of hot dogs for free!
At Safeway, Glade Air Freshners were on sale for $1 each. I had two $1 off coupons (Fun and Family magazine insert - I believe Better Homes and Gardens had them as well as Parenting), so all I had to pay was 17 cents tax for 2 of them!
At Fred Meyer, through Saturday they currently have 5 pound packages of ground hamburger for $4.95 each! Limit 2. This is a great deal, so if you have one nearby you may want to hit them up. I cut mine into 5 sections, then throw them in a ziplock in the freezer. Kraft BBQ sause is 69 cents each with the coupon in their sales ad (limit 3), and Bar S hot dogs for 69 cents each (limit 6 with coupon from ad). They also have their Big K soda 7 12 packs for $10 (with coupon from ad) - a great deal for the soda drinkers! I took advantage of the BBQ as it's something we use a lot here.
Last night we had a nice cheap dinner of Sloppy Joes with $1 worth of the hamburger, a package of the 39 cent hamburger buns, and a 25 cent can of sauce. (and I have leftovers!) We also used a buy one order of Onion Rings, get another free from A&W that was in the local Entertainment book this year to have with it as a treat ($2.55+ tax total for both).
21 May 2008
Chores today
I have been a little slack on doing some of my chores with the hot, humid weather we had over the last 7 days, so with today's cooler weather, I had a list of things to get done:
clean the fridge (oh how I have slacked on this one - I know I hadn't wiped it down inside in several weeks - ick!)
Scrub the bathroom - I wipe down the sink and such every day, but today it needs a deep cleaning
vaccum the dust bunnies - I can't move anything without DH for now, but there's plenty of furry dust bunnies on a daily basis that I can get to in other places. I swiffer my floors every day, but the corners need vaccumed again today for sure
I have a load of whites currently soaking in the washer right now - after this, I am almost caught up on laundry (how does DH give me so much???)
I have all the windows open to take advantage of the fresh air right now, and plus it helps get any dust I kick up outside.
Speaking of dust: I don't understand where it comes from, but lots to dust again today!
Dishes are already finished. I do own a dishwasher, but since it's so old I feel it wastes more water and energy than if I do it by hand.
Dinner - DH wants to grill hotdogs on his foreman grill, so no worries about that one! (yay!)
My last surviving tomato plants are currently enjoying the breeze outside. I am trying to harden them off without killing them like I did everything else (sigh)
It doesn't seem like a lot but it will keep me busy the rest of the afternoon.
clean the fridge (oh how I have slacked on this one - I know I hadn't wiped it down inside in several weeks - ick!)
Scrub the bathroom - I wipe down the sink and such every day, but today it needs a deep cleaning
vaccum the dust bunnies - I can't move anything without DH for now, but there's plenty of furry dust bunnies on a daily basis that I can get to in other places. I swiffer my floors every day, but the corners need vaccumed again today for sure
I have a load of whites currently soaking in the washer right now - after this, I am almost caught up on laundry (how does DH give me so much???)
I have all the windows open to take advantage of the fresh air right now, and plus it helps get any dust I kick up outside.
Speaking of dust: I don't understand where it comes from, but lots to dust again today!
Dishes are already finished. I do own a dishwasher, but since it's so old I feel it wastes more water and energy than if I do it by hand.
Dinner - DH wants to grill hotdogs on his foreman grill, so no worries about that one! (yay!)
My last surviving tomato plants are currently enjoying the breeze outside. I am trying to harden them off without killing them like I did everything else (sigh)
It doesn't seem like a lot but it will keep me busy the rest of the afternoon.
Yesterday's Deal Haul, Wednesday's Mail Call
DH needed to get a few supplies for class yesterday, so I decided to take advantage and stock up on a few items.
Albertson's had Unilever laundry items on sale 5/$15, and if you spent $15, you received $5 off instantly making them $2 each. I found printables online - $1 off All (through All's website) and 75 cents off Wisk (through MyPoints coupon center - by redeeming it I also earned 10 points) I bought:
1 - 32 load Wisk HE liquid 2x concentrate
1 - 32 load All Free & Clear (I use this for our bedsheets) 2x concentrate
3 - 32 load Snuggle Lavender & Sandalwood liquid fabric softener (my favorite!)
and I paid $9.11 for all with tax after coupons - actually, $9.01 as someone left a dime in the change container at self checkout. ;)
I LOVE being able to use Alberston's self checkout as it allows me to scan my coupons myself - I can be absolutely sure each one rang up properly!
We also took advantage of a free rental from Blockbuster from the Birds Eye Voila movie night deal a few weeks back, and rented The Golden Compass. We did enjoy the movie, so that was a definate nice freebie!
And as a nice snack, I printed up two coupons from Taco Bell for a free Fruitista Freeze drink with ANY purchase (print the coupon here - http://www.coupons.com/) My husband and I each bought an item off their new 79 cents menu as our purchase.
For those with a Fred Meyer's nearby, their FMV brand hot dog buns and hamburger buns will be 39 cents each, all summer long! (limit 2 per transaction, otherwise they will ring up full price after the first two. To get around this, take advantage of your self checkout and do as many transactions as you need to!)
Not much very exciting in today's mail. I did receive a free sample from Poise (a Wal-Mart freebie) and issues of Cosmopolitan (free through Start Sampling) and my guilty pleasure - my next issue of Star Magazine (free through Rewards Gold)
Albertson's had Unilever laundry items on sale 5/$15, and if you spent $15, you received $5 off instantly making them $2 each. I found printables online - $1 off All (through All's website) and 75 cents off Wisk (through MyPoints coupon center - by redeeming it I also earned 10 points) I bought:
1 - 32 load Wisk HE liquid 2x concentrate
1 - 32 load All Free & Clear (I use this for our bedsheets) 2x concentrate
3 - 32 load Snuggle Lavender & Sandalwood liquid fabric softener (my favorite!)
and I paid $9.11 for all with tax after coupons - actually, $9.01 as someone left a dime in the change container at self checkout. ;)
I LOVE being able to use Alberston's self checkout as it allows me to scan my coupons myself - I can be absolutely sure each one rang up properly!
We also took advantage of a free rental from Blockbuster from the Birds Eye Voila movie night deal a few weeks back, and rented The Golden Compass. We did enjoy the movie, so that was a definate nice freebie!
And as a nice snack, I printed up two coupons from Taco Bell for a free Fruitista Freeze drink with ANY purchase (print the coupon here - http://www.coupons.com/) My husband and I each bought an item off their new 79 cents menu as our purchase.
For those with a Fred Meyer's nearby, their FMV brand hot dog buns and hamburger buns will be 39 cents each, all summer long! (limit 2 per transaction, otherwise they will ring up full price after the first two. To get around this, take advantage of your self checkout and do as many transactions as you need to!)
Not much very exciting in today's mail. I did receive a free sample from Poise (a Wal-Mart freebie) and issues of Cosmopolitan (free through Start Sampling) and my guilty pleasure - my next issue of Star Magazine (free through Rewards Gold)
20 May 2008
Tuesday's Mail Call
I do think my mail carrier hates me because I make him work since I order freebies online. Tough! Today's haul:
Free travel size tube of Sensodyne toothpaste (Wal-Mart)
Sample of Prilosec (which will help stretch out DH's box - that's pricey!)
Better Homes & Garden (free subscription I picked up)
and today was circular day! and a bonus today, was a coupon inside from Hollywood video, I could choose any of their $5.99 previously used DVDs for $1.99! DH and I love these, as it makes an inexpensive date, and we don't have to worry about taking them back to the store and the gas used to do it.
And best of all! UPS came to visit me - I won a prize in the Vaseline Cocoa Butter Share Your Story Sweepstakes! I can't believe it! It's a nice gift box full of Cocoa Butter items valued at $45! That was definately worth the effort of writing out a story and ending up with this. (Maybe I should try to enter more?) I'll have to let you know how I like all the products in it. (Course, Mamas, just hearing the words cocoa butter makes my skin feel better already! lol)
Free travel size tube of Sensodyne toothpaste (Wal-Mart)
Sample of Prilosec (which will help stretch out DH's box - that's pricey!)
Better Homes & Garden (free subscription I picked up)
and today was circular day! and a bonus today, was a coupon inside from Hollywood video, I could choose any of their $5.99 previously used DVDs for $1.99! DH and I love these, as it makes an inexpensive date, and we don't have to worry about taking them back to the store and the gas used to do it.
And best of all! UPS came to visit me - I won a prize in the Vaseline Cocoa Butter Share Your Story Sweepstakes! I can't believe it! It's a nice gift box full of Cocoa Butter items valued at $45! That was definately worth the effort of writing out a story and ending up with this. (Maybe I should try to enter more?) I'll have to let you know how I like all the products in it. (Course, Mamas, just hearing the words cocoa butter makes my skin feel better already! lol)
19 May 2008
My $$$ Saving, Earth Friendly Things I do
Over the last year, I have been trying to make our lives greener while saving money as best as I can. The following are some of the things I am doing:
1. Taking my own cloth bags to the grocery store.
I know what some of you are thinking: sure, that's great for the environment, but I don't get how this is great for your wallet. Simple: several stores are now giving you a credit for each bag you take to the store with you. Fred Myers for instance, credits you 5 cents for each bag. Now I suppose if you only shop once or twice a month you won't really see the savings on this one, but since I am on the hunt for bargains, it starts to add up for me. Look at it this way: would you turn down a free loaf of bread or two a month? (this is about what it adds up to for me!)
2. Changing all our lightbulbs out to CFLs
I keep reading in many blogs the battle of the new CFLs vs conventional lightbulbs, and I have to say, it amuses me. One of the main arguments is that they cost so much to buy to begin with - I don't get it, because at many stores I have seen special coupons that give you the lightbulb for free, or at least under $1 a pop. Combining that with the lower electric bill, and having to buy less bulbs... you really should come out ahead within a month or two if you change every bulb. With this, I also make sure lights are turned off if we aren't in the room (common sense, I know, but that's been a bit of a battle with my DH since we've been married)
3. Plugging all chargers in during the evening after 9 pm
This one works for us, but it may not for you - we get a slightly reduced electric cost by using electricty after peak hours. It saves us anywhere from $5-10 a month by simply recharging in the evening, and by doing our laundry in the evening during winter months as well.
4. Washing laundry in cold water
At least half our loads are washed in cold water to save on our horrible hot water costs (we are working on figuring out why it's so drattedly high) I wish I could wash all of them in cold, but DH's job causes him to come in contact with bodily fluids, so not on your life. Anything he's worn to work, even if he's changed there, gets washed in warm/hot.
5. Shop the resale and thrift stores
If you've never set foot in one, you don't know what you're missing! Yes, some can be scary looking, but the vast majority are nicely organized and clean. I've scored brand new with the tag items for our family many, many times. Many stores have special sales, such as a certain color tag for 99 cents, or half off. And books - oh how I love books! - many times I can get 8 books (or better!) for a $1. (While I love my library, and you'll see in a moment we visit often, I'd rather not have to worry about what happens to the books while in my house, or worry about overdue fees)
6. Attempting to plant my own garden
Admittedly, I am doing a horrible job at this, so I am saying attempting. I tried three times to plant my seedlings and they all either died from cold or heat with our weather swings. I even tried buying plants, and most of those are currently dying after our heat wave last week. A few tomatoes seem to be hanging in there at least, but I think unless I end up with a really good crop, I may just be breaking even cost wise with what I would have spent at the store. On the bright side, hopefully it will reduce our carbon footprint a little.
1. Taking my own cloth bags to the grocery store.
I know what some of you are thinking: sure, that's great for the environment, but I don't get how this is great for your wallet. Simple: several stores are now giving you a credit for each bag you take to the store with you. Fred Myers for instance, credits you 5 cents for each bag. Now I suppose if you only shop once or twice a month you won't really see the savings on this one, but since I am on the hunt for bargains, it starts to add up for me. Look at it this way: would you turn down a free loaf of bread or two a month? (this is about what it adds up to for me!)
2. Changing all our lightbulbs out to CFLs
I keep reading in many blogs the battle of the new CFLs vs conventional lightbulbs, and I have to say, it amuses me. One of the main arguments is that they cost so much to buy to begin with - I don't get it, because at many stores I have seen special coupons that give you the lightbulb for free, or at least under $1 a pop. Combining that with the lower electric bill, and having to buy less bulbs... you really should come out ahead within a month or two if you change every bulb. With this, I also make sure lights are turned off if we aren't in the room (common sense, I know, but that's been a bit of a battle with my DH since we've been married)
3. Plugging all chargers in during the evening after 9 pm
This one works for us, but it may not for you - we get a slightly reduced electric cost by using electricty after peak hours. It saves us anywhere from $5-10 a month by simply recharging in the evening, and by doing our laundry in the evening during winter months as well.
4. Washing laundry in cold water
At least half our loads are washed in cold water to save on our horrible hot water costs (we are working on figuring out why it's so drattedly high) I wish I could wash all of them in cold, but DH's job causes him to come in contact with bodily fluids, so not on your life. Anything he's worn to work, even if he's changed there, gets washed in warm/hot.
5. Shop the resale and thrift stores
If you've never set foot in one, you don't know what you're missing! Yes, some can be scary looking, but the vast majority are nicely organized and clean. I've scored brand new with the tag items for our family many, many times. Many stores have special sales, such as a certain color tag for 99 cents, or half off. And books - oh how I love books! - many times I can get 8 books (or better!) for a $1. (While I love my library, and you'll see in a moment we visit often, I'd rather not have to worry about what happens to the books while in my house, or worry about overdue fees)
6. Attempting to plant my own garden
Admittedly, I am doing a horrible job at this, so I am saying attempting. I tried three times to plant my seedlings and they all either died from cold or heat with our weather swings. I even tried buying plants, and most of those are currently dying after our heat wave last week. A few tomatoes seem to be hanging in there at least, but I think unless I end up with a really good crop, I may just be breaking even cost wise with what I would have spent at the store. On the bright side, hopefully it will reduce our carbon footprint a little.
Survey Sites That Really Do Pay
I do really love it when I get a little check in my mailbox or a notice from PayPal from one of my online surveys. (I love it even more if I get lucky enough to help test a product!) I can't tell you how many times they have helped us stretch a paycheck, or bought us a little something fun!
The following survey sites are sites I not only regularly see surveys from, but I have also been paid more than once, and most I have been a member of for many years. Many companies it does depend on your demographics as to how many surveys you receive - you may receive more or less than me.
Pinecone Research
This one I cannot post a link to (it's against the rules), you'll have to find the banner posted on the internet. There used to be a time that finding the banner for this site was like the holy grail, but lately I have seen it posted in TONS of places (hint: check parenting sites). Depending on where you find the banner and sign up, you will receive $3-$5 a survey. They pay via check or PayPal, and you always receive it within a few days. I have also received lots of products to test from them.
My Survey
https://fun.mysurvey.com/join.cfm?r=3212131
This one pays via points that you can exchange for cash or merchandise. 1000 points equals $10 cash. (I do get a little bonus if you join through my link, I'd love it if you do!) If you are a Mom or retired, I think you might see more surveys. You can also choose to receive paper surveys through the mail to add to your point total (sometimes they will even send cash with the survey!). I've even received products to test through them too.
Survey Spot
www.surveyspot.com
I'll admit this particular program can be a pain. There are two kinds of surveys they send out: surveys that pay cash (they'll tell you upfront) and surveys for entries into their instant win sweepstakes (you'll get far more of these than you will cash paying ones). You can cash out for a check once you hit $5. Now, I actually have won a real prize off their instant win (A $100 Nike gift card) so this is why I am including it in my list. If I get a ton of the sweepstakes surveys, I'll only do them if I have the time. It's up to you whether or not this one sounds worth it to you or not; however, I do tend to get invites from them for online focus groups (paying anywhere from $15 to $70 for an hour or two of your time) and I have tested out products through them as well. I guess you could say it's a love-hate relationship!
Opinion Outpost
https://www.opinionoutpost.com/join/4709144
This is another I tend to have a love/hate relationship with; however, they pay and I do get a lot of survey invites through them. This one also pays with points that are turned into cash (10 points equal a dollar) with most surveys in the 2-3 dollar range. You can cash out for a check at the $5 point. (if you sign up through my link, this one also gives me a little something, so I thank you if you decide to!)
Zoompanel
www.zoompanel.com
Now, I know a lot of people are so-so on this one, mainly because it pays in points that you can turn into merchandise. I've been able to cash in for things like DVDs (my latest was one of the Bewitched seasons), CDs, as well as a really nice deep fryer, a foot spa that has been my best friend the last few months (lol) and lots of other fun things for around our house. I get a lot of surveys from them and I am able to rack up the points fairly quickly. I have also gotten many items to test through them. If you get selected for a focus group through them, they usually will pay you in PayPal or a check.
Opinion Place
www.opinionplace.com
This one used to be only for AOL members, but they have recently opened their doors to everyone. You can choose to be paid in PayPal cash, as well as AA miles, and several other items. While the invites aren't very often for me (1-2 a month currently), I have received invites to focus groups which is why I keep them on my list.
Again, I want to stress that I don't make a killing off my surveys, but there ARE legit sites out there than you can make a little extra off of. I do belong to others, but these are the ones that I see the most acitivity from, and that really do pay me.
The following survey sites are sites I not only regularly see surveys from, but I have also been paid more than once, and most I have been a member of for many years. Many companies it does depend on your demographics as to how many surveys you receive - you may receive more or less than me.
Pinecone Research
This one I cannot post a link to (it's against the rules), you'll have to find the banner posted on the internet. There used to be a time that finding the banner for this site was like the holy grail, but lately I have seen it posted in TONS of places (hint: check parenting sites). Depending on where you find the banner and sign up, you will receive $3-$5 a survey. They pay via check or PayPal, and you always receive it within a few days. I have also received lots of products to test from them.
My Survey
https://fun.mysurvey.com/join.cfm?r=3212131
This one pays via points that you can exchange for cash or merchandise. 1000 points equals $10 cash. (I do get a little bonus if you join through my link, I'd love it if you do!) If you are a Mom or retired, I think you might see more surveys. You can also choose to receive paper surveys through the mail to add to your point total (sometimes they will even send cash with the survey!). I've even received products to test through them too.
Survey Spot
www.surveyspot.com
I'll admit this particular program can be a pain. There are two kinds of surveys they send out: surveys that pay cash (they'll tell you upfront) and surveys for entries into their instant win sweepstakes (you'll get far more of these than you will cash paying ones). You can cash out for a check once you hit $5. Now, I actually have won a real prize off their instant win (A $100 Nike gift card) so this is why I am including it in my list. If I get a ton of the sweepstakes surveys, I'll only do them if I have the time. It's up to you whether or not this one sounds worth it to you or not; however, I do tend to get invites from them for online focus groups (paying anywhere from $15 to $70 for an hour or two of your time) and I have tested out products through them as well. I guess you could say it's a love-hate relationship!
Opinion Outpost
https://www.opinionoutpost.com/join/4709144
This is another I tend to have a love/hate relationship with; however, they pay and I do get a lot of survey invites through them. This one also pays with points that are turned into cash (10 points equal a dollar) with most surveys in the 2-3 dollar range. You can cash out for a check at the $5 point. (if you sign up through my link, this one also gives me a little something, so I thank you if you decide to!)
Zoompanel
www.zoompanel.com
Now, I know a lot of people are so-so on this one, mainly because it pays in points that you can turn into merchandise. I've been able to cash in for things like DVDs (my latest was one of the Bewitched seasons), CDs, as well as a really nice deep fryer, a foot spa that has been my best friend the last few months (lol) and lots of other fun things for around our house. I get a lot of surveys from them and I am able to rack up the points fairly quickly. I have also gotten many items to test through them. If you get selected for a focus group through them, they usually will pay you in PayPal or a check.
Opinion Place
www.opinionplace.com
This one used to be only for AOL members, but they have recently opened their doors to everyone. You can choose to be paid in PayPal cash, as well as AA miles, and several other items. While the invites aren't very often for me (1-2 a month currently), I have received invites to focus groups which is why I keep them on my list.
Again, I want to stress that I don't make a killing off my surveys, but there ARE legit sites out there than you can make a little extra off of. I do belong to others, but these are the ones that I see the most acitivity from, and that really do pay me.
Making the most of those rebate checks
I've noticed many stores are desperate to get your rebate/stimulus money! Several are offering to cash it for free (Wal-Mart), while others are giving you a bonus for spending it in the store or by buying a gift card (Sears, K-Mart, Fred Meyers).
We decided to take advantage of Fred Meyers promo. They are giving you a 10% bonus on the gift card for every $300, $600, and $900 you put onto gift cards. DH and I had a talk about it - first of all, we liked that you didn't have to cash or show your rebate check there (we actually haven't even received ours yet), and we do tend to purchase the majority of our gas there on top of it being the closest grocery store to us. (Also, free product coupons count towards your FM 10 cent discount on gas if you weren't aware) It was very easy, we simply paid with $300 cash that we had budgeted for our gas and some groceries over the next month from our checking account, and we gleefully used that "free" $30 to help cut down our gas budget for the month.
Obviously, if you don't normally spend that money at a store, it's not a good deal, so don't allow yourself to get sucked in. But if you do, this is a great time to take advantage of the deals while they are around. Be careful with expiration dates on the cards! And remember to keep your receipt in a seperate location, so if you do loose your card, you can have it frozen and get a replacement.
Also, I know school isn't out yet, but some of you may want to be thinking ahead for Back to School season. If you tend to do your BTS shopping at a place like Sears and were already going to budget a portion of your stimulus check for school clothes, you may want to go ahead and buy the gift card now (Just be careful not to loose it between now and then!)
Has anyone else taken advantage of a rebate/stimulus check deal?
We decided to take advantage of Fred Meyers promo. They are giving you a 10% bonus on the gift card for every $300, $600, and $900 you put onto gift cards. DH and I had a talk about it - first of all, we liked that you didn't have to cash or show your rebate check there (we actually haven't even received ours yet), and we do tend to purchase the majority of our gas there on top of it being the closest grocery store to us. (Also, free product coupons count towards your FM 10 cent discount on gas if you weren't aware) It was very easy, we simply paid with $300 cash that we had budgeted for our gas and some groceries over the next month from our checking account, and we gleefully used that "free" $30 to help cut down our gas budget for the month.
Obviously, if you don't normally spend that money at a store, it's not a good deal, so don't allow yourself to get sucked in. But if you do, this is a great time to take advantage of the deals while they are around. Be careful with expiration dates on the cards! And remember to keep your receipt in a seperate location, so if you do loose your card, you can have it frozen and get a replacement.
Also, I know school isn't out yet, but some of you may want to be thinking ahead for Back to School season. If you tend to do your BTS shopping at a place like Sears and were already going to budget a portion of your stimulus check for school clothes, you may want to go ahead and buy the gift card now (Just be careful not to loose it between now and then!)
Has anyone else taken advantage of a rebate/stimulus check deal?
17 May 2008
My Top 5 Dollar Tree Must Haves
These are my top five items that I cannot live without from Dollar Tree. Well, I can, but I don't really want to!
5. Trash bags (16 count, 13 gallon drawstring bags.)
OK, so these aren't the strongest in the world, this I admit. For my heavier messes, I still have my box of Hefty Force Flex trash bags in the house. But these cheapie trash bags are perfect for my lighter messes, such as throwing away paper trash after a BBQ, emptying out critter cages, and when I want to be able to take the trash out every day. And at 16 bags for $1, they are a good value.
4. generic Swiffer-style sheets (20 to a pack)
I know there is a cheaper way of doing this - making your own out of worn out flannel shirts. I wish I could do it, and help the environment.... but I confess, with the amount of hair we loose in this house, between humans and critters, it just doesn't work for our household. Enough hair makes it into my washer and dryer as it is! While I love the real Swiffer sheets whenever I can stock up with a very good deal, these work pretty well with my Swiffer vaccum. At 20 sheets for $1, this is another really good deal! They also carry 16 wet wipes for $1 as well.
3. Scrub It Rainbow multi colored sponges (14 to a pack)
Again, I know this is not an environmentally friendly product, I admit to it. I cut these in half, and use a half for one week to wash dishes. At the end of the week, I usually use it to clean out the shower and then toss it out. At 14 to a pack (or 28 for me!) this is another deal I cannot live without.
2. holiday decorations
I do try to buy the majority of our decorations when Target hits 90% off after the holidays. But it never fails, I always miss something. And for $1, I don't feel as guilty picking up that Santa cling.
1. Allegra pasta (various forms, 12 to 16 oz)
Oh, I'll admit, it took me some time to build up to buying any food product from the Dollar Tree. I was worried it wasn't fit for human consumption. Then one day I broke down and decided at 50 cents for a 16 oz package, I was going to try it... and we really liked it! You're not just limited to elbow macaroni either, they have spagetti, egg noodles, and more. And at 50 cents... you can't go wrong either, if not just to have several packages hidden in your cabinent for those nights you are wondering how to stretch a dish.
I know a lot of people love the Dollar Tree for their greeting cards (2/$1) and gift bags - they do have a great selection! However, I have found better deals elsewhere, and keep them in a card file so I rarely need to run out to DT to purchase them. There's a lot of other fun things lurking there, but these are my items that I usually stock up on every visit, and that they continously carry.
So what are your top 5 DT items?
5. Trash bags (16 count, 13 gallon drawstring bags.)
OK, so these aren't the strongest in the world, this I admit. For my heavier messes, I still have my box of Hefty Force Flex trash bags in the house. But these cheapie trash bags are perfect for my lighter messes, such as throwing away paper trash after a BBQ, emptying out critter cages, and when I want to be able to take the trash out every day. And at 16 bags for $1, they are a good value.
4. generic Swiffer-style sheets (20 to a pack)
I know there is a cheaper way of doing this - making your own out of worn out flannel shirts. I wish I could do it, and help the environment.... but I confess, with the amount of hair we loose in this house, between humans and critters, it just doesn't work for our household. Enough hair makes it into my washer and dryer as it is! While I love the real Swiffer sheets whenever I can stock up with a very good deal, these work pretty well with my Swiffer vaccum. At 20 sheets for $1, this is another really good deal! They also carry 16 wet wipes for $1 as well.
3. Scrub It Rainbow multi colored sponges (14 to a pack)
Again, I know this is not an environmentally friendly product, I admit to it. I cut these in half, and use a half for one week to wash dishes. At the end of the week, I usually use it to clean out the shower and then toss it out. At 14 to a pack (or 28 for me!) this is another deal I cannot live without.
2. holiday decorations
I do try to buy the majority of our decorations when Target hits 90% off after the holidays. But it never fails, I always miss something. And for $1, I don't feel as guilty picking up that Santa cling.
1. Allegra pasta (various forms, 12 to 16 oz)
Oh, I'll admit, it took me some time to build up to buying any food product from the Dollar Tree. I was worried it wasn't fit for human consumption. Then one day I broke down and decided at 50 cents for a 16 oz package, I was going to try it... and we really liked it! You're not just limited to elbow macaroni either, they have spagetti, egg noodles, and more. And at 50 cents... you can't go wrong either, if not just to have several packages hidden in your cabinent for those nights you are wondering how to stretch a dish.
I know a lot of people love the Dollar Tree for their greeting cards (2/$1) and gift bags - they do have a great selection! However, I have found better deals elsewhere, and keep them in a card file so I rarely need to run out to DT to purchase them. There's a lot of other fun things lurking there, but these are my items that I usually stock up on every visit, and that they continously carry.
So what are your top 5 DT items?
Almost to $4...
As of this morning, it's now $3.93 a gallon over here. Ouch! We probably will hit $4 a gallon just in time for Memorial Day weekend.
16 May 2008
Deals in strange places...
Yesterday upon hitting the Dollar Tree store over here, I discovered that they had gotten in an entire pile of nice bras for $1! They were originally marked $6.99, and looked like many of the same ones Wal-Mart carries at that price point. There were also some from K-Mart's Pink label at $1 as well (No, they weren't all white granny bras, there was pink, blue, white, beige, and black in varying styles, including padded underwire push up bras! I saw sizes 36C through 42D and even some 46DDD!) If you're in need of some new bras and are going past your local DT, it may definately be worth your while to poke your head in.
Also I discovered at DT for those of you with furkids, adorable pastel chenille stuffed sqeauky bone shaped toys!
I'm not usually one for plastic food serving items, but I have to say, the Tiki god/Hawaiian looking items that they have in right now are really cute. They are making me want to have a fun theme BBQ party right now so I can use them!
Anyone else finding any fun deals at their local dollar store?
Also I discovered at DT for those of you with furkids, adorable pastel chenille stuffed sqeauky bone shaped toys!
I'm not usually one for plastic food serving items, but I have to say, the Tiki god/Hawaiian looking items that they have in right now are really cute. They are making me want to have a fun theme BBQ party right now so I can use them!
Anyone else finding any fun deals at their local dollar store?
Just a reminder
That if you can, keep your eyes on the register screen as your groceries are being rang up. I know this can be hard with impatient munchkins, but if you can, you will probably catch several mistakes! This has happened to us twice this week, once at Fred Meyer's, where a frozen pizza rang up at $4.50 instead of the sale price of $3. Yesterday it happened again, this time at Safeway. The tub of organic greens rang up at $4.99 when the sale tag on the shelf said $3.99. $1 is a pretty big difference so I spoke up. Turns out yes it was on sale for $3.99, and Safeway has a policy where if it rings up incorrectly, the first incorrectly scanned item is free! So we walked out of there with free salad. Not bad for just paying attention as our items were scanned.
14 May 2008
At least some good deals
to make up for the cost of gas. Gas was $3.82 out here yesterday.
DH has been taking an extra nusing class on top of working full time, so I cashed in some of my survey checks and took us out on a cheap date at a local pizza haunt last night as a reward for him. Along the way, I managed to drag him into several stores in search of some good deals:
At Walgreen's, we were able to get a few boxes of Puff's Kleenex for 89 cents (and the way my allergies have been this last season, I can never have enough) In their clearance section, we also snagged several bottles of the Walgreen's shaving cream marked at 50 cents each. And the best one, our local Walgreen's had coupons for $20 off energy saving lights - so I was able to purchase one to replace our sad looking, very ugly, faux vintage looking light fixture in the baby room.
The Dollar Tree had some yummy smelling votives in a box of 4 for $1 in a cocunut margarita scent! And they had a pair of skull and crossbones flip flops that just screamed my name at $1 ;)
At Albertson's, they had a deal last week, if you purchased 10 boxes of General Mills cereal, at the register it would come to $1 a box. The first time we went last week, they only had one lonely box of Cheerios left so we left with a rain check. They had restocked yesterday, so I purchased 10 boxes to get the deal, and then brought our total down to $8.50 after two coupons for 75 cents off 2 boxes of Cheerios. This is great for us right now since DH is eating cereal for breakfast before he leaves for his class!
And at Fred Meyer's, I was able to use a couple of coupons I had for free Barilla pasta and sauce, along with scoring a pound of ground sausage for $1.29, a half gallon of lemonade for 79 cents, and 2 boxes of Frosted Mini Wheats for $1.25 each.
I don't do as well as many of the coupon queens, but it wasn't a bad shopping day for us, and luckily everything was either very close to each other or right on the way home, so we didn't waste too much gas. I have to say it was a very nice treat not having to cook dinner!
DH has been taking an extra nusing class on top of working full time, so I cashed in some of my survey checks and took us out on a cheap date at a local pizza haunt last night as a reward for him. Along the way, I managed to drag him into several stores in search of some good deals:
At Walgreen's, we were able to get a few boxes of Puff's Kleenex for 89 cents (and the way my allergies have been this last season, I can never have enough) In their clearance section, we also snagged several bottles of the Walgreen's shaving cream marked at 50 cents each. And the best one, our local Walgreen's had coupons for $20 off energy saving lights - so I was able to purchase one to replace our sad looking, very ugly, faux vintage looking light fixture in the baby room.
The Dollar Tree had some yummy smelling votives in a box of 4 for $1 in a cocunut margarita scent! And they had a pair of skull and crossbones flip flops that just screamed my name at $1 ;)
At Albertson's, they had a deal last week, if you purchased 10 boxes of General Mills cereal, at the register it would come to $1 a box. The first time we went last week, they only had one lonely box of Cheerios left so we left with a rain check. They had restocked yesterday, so I purchased 10 boxes to get the deal, and then brought our total down to $8.50 after two coupons for 75 cents off 2 boxes of Cheerios. This is great for us right now since DH is eating cereal for breakfast before he leaves for his class!
And at Fred Meyer's, I was able to use a couple of coupons I had for free Barilla pasta and sauce, along with scoring a pound of ground sausage for $1.29, a half gallon of lemonade for 79 cents, and 2 boxes of Frosted Mini Wheats for $1.25 each.
I don't do as well as many of the coupon queens, but it wasn't a bad shopping day for us, and luckily everything was either very close to each other or right on the way home, so we didn't waste too much gas. I have to say it was a very nice treat not having to cook dinner!
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