31 July 2009
Review: ABC Gauze
I recently had the chance to review ABC Gauze.
ABC Gauze (Advanced Bleeding Control) is a new, all natural way to stop bleeding in cuts and scrapes. Unlike regular cotton gauze, it's made with a collagen like substance created from regenerated cellulose. This nifty new material "melts" into a gel when it comes into contact with blood (or other wet substances, if you're intrigued and want to play with it before you have an accident lol).
Simply remove it from the package, place it on a cleaned up wound and apply direct pressure. Within a few seconds, the material will have transformed. (As my DH who is in nursing says, COOL!) Kids or others who are easily amused like us may have their mind taken off their "boo-boo" by seeing it changed like magic to the gel. ;) We found it super easy to use.
ABC Gauze is available in four different sizes, from 1"x1" up to 4"x4". You can actually trim ABC Gauze to size before applying, or wash the excess off the non-open sore/scratch with sterile water if desired. Once you're ready to remove the gauze, it also just simply washes off, without ripping open any scabbing. My DH wants me to point out: because it is clear on top of the wound, you can easily monitor it for any infection. This makes it particularly wonderful for small children and senior citizens.
(Don't worry, I'm not going to gross you out with a picture of this on a fresh sore! lol There's a limit to the pictures I share on here! lol)
According to the website, you can also use it to stop nosebleeds, or even bleeding in the mouth.
The only drawback to some may be the cost: a package of 4 starts at $14.99 plus shipping. I'd probably recommend that at this cost if it's high to you that you skip using ABC Gauze for paper cuts, and save it for scrapes and serious cuts that aren't quite bad enough for an ER trip, but you'd be breaking out the gauze anyways.
You know this part is coming, right? Because ABC Gauze is so easy to use, and requires no extra components other than something to wash the wound with first, I highly recommend it as part of your emergency preparedness kits or even your every day first aid kits. As a mom, it's easy to slip into my purse or diaper bag in case it's needed. As a (alright, former now that I have a kiddo) frequent traveler, I find this a nifty addition to your backpack or suitcase in case it's needed.
ABC Gauze (Advanced Bleeding Control) is a new, all natural way to stop bleeding in cuts and scrapes. Unlike regular cotton gauze, it's made with a collagen like substance created from regenerated cellulose. This nifty new material "melts" into a gel when it comes into contact with blood (or other wet substances, if you're intrigued and want to play with it before you have an accident lol).
Simply remove it from the package, place it on a cleaned up wound and apply direct pressure. Within a few seconds, the material will have transformed. (As my DH who is in nursing says, COOL!) Kids or others who are easily amused like us may have their mind taken off their "boo-boo" by seeing it changed like magic to the gel. ;) We found it super easy to use.
ABC Gauze is available in four different sizes, from 1"x1" up to 4"x4". You can actually trim ABC Gauze to size before applying, or wash the excess off the non-open sore/scratch with sterile water if desired. Once you're ready to remove the gauze, it also just simply washes off, without ripping open any scabbing. My DH wants me to point out: because it is clear on top of the wound, you can easily monitor it for any infection. This makes it particularly wonderful for small children and senior citizens.
(Don't worry, I'm not going to gross you out with a picture of this on a fresh sore! lol There's a limit to the pictures I share on here! lol)
According to the website, you can also use it to stop nosebleeds, or even bleeding in the mouth.
The only drawback to some may be the cost: a package of 4 starts at $14.99 plus shipping. I'd probably recommend that at this cost if it's high to you that you skip using ABC Gauze for paper cuts, and save it for scrapes and serious cuts that aren't quite bad enough for an ER trip, but you'd be breaking out the gauze anyways.
You know this part is coming, right? Because ABC Gauze is so easy to use, and requires no extra components other than something to wash the wound with first, I highly recommend it as part of your emergency preparedness kits or even your every day first aid kits. As a mom, it's easy to slip into my purse or diaper bag in case it's needed. As a (alright, former now that I have a kiddo) frequent traveler, I find this a nifty addition to your backpack or suitcase in case it's needed.
Printable Smart Ones Pizza Minis Coupon
Smart Ones is introducing their new Artisan Creations Grilled Flatbreads and Anytime Selections Pizza Minis and would like everyone to try them by having a new printable coupon to save $1.00 off your purchase of 3 of either kind!
New Printable Fiber One Yogurt Coupon
MyBlogSpark just sent me a link for a $1.00 off Fiber One Yogurt multi-packs printable coupon!
Use this when they are on sale for around $2.00, and you're getting each cup of yogurt for $0.25 or less - not a bad deal at all!
Printable Wholly Salsa Coupon
August is almost here, and that means there is a new $1.00 off any Wholly Guacamole or Wholly Salsa coupon to print! No software needed, but I'd print it in color to cut down on any hassle from a check out clerk.
Another Aloha Friday Appearance
I cannot believe it's Friday already! Once again I'm participating in Aloha Friday, hosted by An Island Life. My question this week:
If you were a crayon, what color would you be?
Yep, I'm still stuck on school supplies. Me and those crayons. ;) I think I'd be Violet.
30 July 2009
Free Music Downloads
Windows is offering free downloads of several different songs via the Windows MySpace page. You do NOT have to be a member of MySpace in order to download them. There are artists like Shadows Fall, Leerone, After Midnight Project, and more.
CD Review & Giveaway: Rock of Ages
One2One Network recently asked me if I would review Rock of Ages, the new CD recording based on the Broadway play of the same name. I must be living in another decade because I hadn't heard of it before, but when they mentioned the show was full of 80's songs, I jumped right on board.
Rock of Ages is a Broadway musical starring American Idol finalist Constantine Maroulis. It's set back in 1987 in a Sunset Strip rock club, with a boy meets girl storyline set to songs of the 80's. They call it metal songs of the 80's, but a lot of these songs are nowhere near metal, so don't panic if you're not into heavy metal. ;)
Now the musical is full of big 80's hair metal songs like Bon Jovi's Wanted Dead or Alive, Europe's The Final Countdown, and even Joan Jett's I Hate Myself For Loving You, as well as pop songs like Starship's We Built This City and Pat Benatar's Hit Me With Your Best Shot, all sung by the original cast members. Here's the full track listings:
Just Like Paradise / Nothin' But A Good Time
Sister Christian
We Built This City / Too Much Time On My Hands
I Wanna Rock
We're Not Gonna Take It
Heaven/More Than Words / To Be With You
Waiting For A Girl Like You
Wanted Dead Or Alive
I Want To Know What Love Is
Cum On Feel The Noize / We're Not Gonna Take It (Reprise)
Harden My Heart / Shadows Of The Night
Here I Go Again
The Final Countdown
Any Way You Want It / I Wanna Rock (Reprise)
High Enough
I Hate Myself For Loving You / Heat Of The Moment
Hit Me With Your Best Shot
Can't Fight This Feeling
Every Rose Has Its Thorn
Oh Sherrie
The Search Is Over
Don't Stop Believin
So if you're a partial 80's fan, you'll probably like it. If you're a die hard fan, and cringe at covers of your favorite songs, you're probably going to hate it. I had to skip through some songs because they just made me want to claw my eyes out, lol. I just couldn't take some of my favorite 80's songs being sung by someone else.
I loved that the CD itself looked like a little mini record! I'm showing my age here, but my first album I ever bought was on record, not even on cassette.
There's some video footage for the Making of the Soundtrack video available to watch, or you can purchase your own copy of the soundtrack too!
Win it! One lucky reader will win their own copy of Rock of Ages! To enter, tell us your favorite 80's song or band if you're a die hard fan. ;) (Me? I have so many favorite songs this blog entry would be a mile long! I still have many of my original cassettes and band t-shirts from back then!)
As always, you can receive extra entries for:
-Subscribing to my feed or following my blog
-Blogging about this giveaway with a link back
-Tweeting about this giveaway (leave the link or @psychotichouse me)
-Add my blog to your Technorati favs
Contest ends August 15th at 11:59 PM PST. US only, sorry. :( Good luck! :)
Rock of Ages is a Broadway musical starring American Idol finalist Constantine Maroulis. It's set back in 1987 in a Sunset Strip rock club, with a boy meets girl storyline set to songs of the 80's. They call it metal songs of the 80's, but a lot of these songs are nowhere near metal, so don't panic if you're not into heavy metal. ;)
Now the musical is full of big 80's hair metal songs like Bon Jovi's Wanted Dead or Alive, Europe's The Final Countdown, and even Joan Jett's I Hate Myself For Loving You, as well as pop songs like Starship's We Built This City and Pat Benatar's Hit Me With Your Best Shot, all sung by the original cast members. Here's the full track listings:
Just Like Paradise / Nothin' But A Good Time
Sister Christian
We Built This City / Too Much Time On My Hands
I Wanna Rock
We're Not Gonna Take It
Heaven/More Than Words / To Be With You
Waiting For A Girl Like You
Wanted Dead Or Alive
I Want To Know What Love Is
Cum On Feel The Noize / We're Not Gonna Take It (Reprise)
Harden My Heart / Shadows Of The Night
Here I Go Again
The Final Countdown
Any Way You Want It / I Wanna Rock (Reprise)
High Enough
I Hate Myself For Loving You / Heat Of The Moment
Hit Me With Your Best Shot
Can't Fight This Feeling
Every Rose Has Its Thorn
Oh Sherrie
The Search Is Over
Don't Stop Believin
So if you're a partial 80's fan, you'll probably like it. If you're a die hard fan, and cringe at covers of your favorite songs, you're probably going to hate it. I had to skip through some songs because they just made me want to claw my eyes out, lol. I just couldn't take some of my favorite 80's songs being sung by someone else.
I loved that the CD itself looked like a little mini record! I'm showing my age here, but my first album I ever bought was on record, not even on cassette.
There's some video footage for the Making of the Soundtrack video available to watch, or you can purchase your own copy of the soundtrack too!
Win it! One lucky reader will win their own copy of Rock of Ages! To enter, tell us your favorite 80's song or band if you're a die hard fan. ;) (Me? I have so many favorite songs this blog entry would be a mile long! I still have many of my original cassettes and band t-shirts from back then!)
As always, you can receive extra entries for:
-Subscribing to my feed or following my blog
-Blogging about this giveaway with a link back
-Tweeting about this giveaway (leave the link or @psychotichouse me)
-Add my blog to your Technorati favs
Contest ends August 15th at 11:59 PM PST. US only, sorry. :( Good luck! :)
Take Back The Beep
Earlier today, I had a forward in my email box with article from the NY Times.
Go on, go have a peek. You know we're sitting here waiting. It's not like we can run around outside in this heat wave. ;)
I actually never thought about it before, but the majority of consumers as cell phone subscribers pay per minute. Sure, some might have unlimited nights and weekends - but unless you're a teen who probably does the majority of their calling during those times, we're doing our calling during prime time airtime - 7 am to 7 pm every day. We're checking with our spouses, our jobs if we work, ordering lunch or dinner, and let's face it: a lot of our calls go to voice mail. (well, hopefully not the call to the local deli for lunch orders)
When you think about it, very few of of those voice mail messages we leave are under 20-25 seconds. By the time you add up the ringing, the voice mail message the person has before you leave your message (my brother in law's message is around 30 seconds!) you're probably at about the one minute mark. Did you think about the 15 second message the cell carrier stuck in there? Yeah, the one that said leave your message at the beep. There's another 15 seconds gone.
Well, there's a minute you're paying for, one way or another. And since most carriers don't round up the minutes as part of their plans, it's probably two minutes, down the drain.
Let's say you leave 3 messages a day. There's 6 minutes you're paying for.
So while it's only 15 seconds used up each call, I agree with David Pogue. Why can't we as consumers choose to turn this part of the message off? I don't know about you, but I think the majority of folks by now know the voice mail leaving drill. You hear the beep, you talk, you hang up. I don't need a reminder 5 or 6 times a day when I call my DH and he's busy with a patient so I need to leave yet another (hopefully not cut off) message.
Many of us are already paying over what we should each month to use a cell phone (Do you use all your minutes each month? we sure don't!) - why should we continue to pay for 15 seconds each voice message that we don't need to?
So if you'd like to Take Back The Beep too, contact your carrier:
* Verizon: Post a complaint here: http://bit.ly/FJncH
* AT&T: Send e-mail to Mark Siegel, executive director of media relations: MS8460 @ att.com (take out the spaces there!)
* Sprint: Post a complaint here: http://bit.ly/9CmrZ
* T-Mobile: Post a complaint here: http://bit.ly/2rKy0u
If you have another carrier, just log on to your online account, and leave a message through their customer service function.
Go on, go have a peek. You know we're sitting here waiting. It's not like we can run around outside in this heat wave. ;)
I actually never thought about it before, but the majority of consumers as cell phone subscribers pay per minute. Sure, some might have unlimited nights and weekends - but unless you're a teen who probably does the majority of their calling during those times, we're doing our calling during prime time airtime - 7 am to 7 pm every day. We're checking with our spouses, our jobs if we work, ordering lunch or dinner, and let's face it: a lot of our calls go to voice mail. (well, hopefully not the call to the local deli for lunch orders)
When you think about it, very few of of those voice mail messages we leave are under 20-25 seconds. By the time you add up the ringing, the voice mail message the person has before you leave your message (my brother in law's message is around 30 seconds!) you're probably at about the one minute mark. Did you think about the 15 second message the cell carrier stuck in there? Yeah, the one that said leave your message at the beep. There's another 15 seconds gone.
Well, there's a minute you're paying for, one way or another. And since most carriers don't round up the minutes as part of their plans, it's probably two minutes, down the drain.
Let's say you leave 3 messages a day. There's 6 minutes you're paying for.
So while it's only 15 seconds used up each call, I agree with David Pogue. Why can't we as consumers choose to turn this part of the message off? I don't know about you, but I think the majority of folks by now know the voice mail leaving drill. You hear the beep, you talk, you hang up. I don't need a reminder 5 or 6 times a day when I call my DH and he's busy with a patient so I need to leave yet another (hopefully not cut off) message.
Many of us are already paying over what we should each month to use a cell phone (Do you use all your minutes each month? we sure don't!) - why should we continue to pay for 15 seconds each voice message that we don't need to?
So if you'd like to Take Back The Beep too, contact your carrier:
* Verizon: Post a complaint here: http://bit.ly/FJncH
* AT&T: Send e-mail to Mark Siegel, executive director of media relations: MS8460 @ att.com (take out the spaces there!)
* Sprint: Post a complaint here: http://bit.ly/9CmrZ
* T-Mobile: Post a complaint here: http://bit.ly/2rKy0u
If you have another carrier, just log on to your online account, and leave a message through their customer service function.
Thrifty Thursday - Planning Ahead To Save
This week for my Thrifty Thursday post, I'm talking about planning ahead to save money.
This works from everything from menu planning (seriously, just because you make a menu plan, doesn't mean you can't change it at the last minute for something else you crave sometimes!) to keeping greeting cards for every occasion just in case you forgot an important date (cards can be 2/$1 at the dollar store, instead of $3.99 at the grocery store on that quick last second run!)
Own a small to medium insulated lunch tote and ice pack. Get in the habit of having it almost ready to go, so you can always have a cold drink or two while out shopping, or at kids activities if you're a parent. Instead of paying $1.00 - $1.50 for a soda or bottle of water, your cost can be under $0.25 each. (and, having the ice packs ready to go in your freezer helps your food stay frozen longer if you loose the power!)
Keep a couple of frozen dinners purchased on sale, or make ahead a frozen meal or two that is easily reheated, such as lasagna, for days that you come home late and too tired to cook. This could save you as much as $20-40 on carry out or delivery pizza instead, and it's ready out of the oven in about the same time as that pizza would be delivered.
Keep a hidden stash of toilet paper or paper towels that you can pull out if you run out before you restock normally. A single roll of either hidden behind towels will keep you going until you go back out shopping. (Just remember where it is, and to replace it once you've used it!) Not only will it save you gas on a late night trip, you can also avoid paying what will probably be the non-sale price and save a few dollars that way. (as well as other items you might be tempted to grab with late night cravings!)
Keep that grocery list up to date! If it's a non-perishable item, you can always purchase a replacement when you are about half way through it, so you are able to get the best possible price when it is on sale.
BTW, for those of you who are also roasting in this heat wave, check out my Tips on Keeping Cool post from last Summer with some cheap tips to keep cool!
This works from everything from menu planning (seriously, just because you make a menu plan, doesn't mean you can't change it at the last minute for something else you crave sometimes!) to keeping greeting cards for every occasion just in case you forgot an important date (cards can be 2/$1 at the dollar store, instead of $3.99 at the grocery store on that quick last second run!)
Own a small to medium insulated lunch tote and ice pack. Get in the habit of having it almost ready to go, so you can always have a cold drink or two while out shopping, or at kids activities if you're a parent. Instead of paying $1.00 - $1.50 for a soda or bottle of water, your cost can be under $0.25 each. (and, having the ice packs ready to go in your freezer helps your food stay frozen longer if you loose the power!)
Keep a couple of frozen dinners purchased on sale, or make ahead a frozen meal or two that is easily reheated, such as lasagna, for days that you come home late and too tired to cook. This could save you as much as $20-40 on carry out or delivery pizza instead, and it's ready out of the oven in about the same time as that pizza would be delivered.
Keep a hidden stash of toilet paper or paper towels that you can pull out if you run out before you restock normally. A single roll of either hidden behind towels will keep you going until you go back out shopping. (Just remember where it is, and to replace it once you've used it!) Not only will it save you gas on a late night trip, you can also avoid paying what will probably be the non-sale price and save a few dollars that way. (as well as other items you might be tempted to grab with late night cravings!)
Keep that grocery list up to date! If it's a non-perishable item, you can always purchase a replacement when you are about half way through it, so you are able to get the best possible price when it is on sale.
BTW, for those of you who are also roasting in this heat wave, check out my Tips on Keeping Cool post from last Summer with some cheap tips to keep cool!
Jack in the Box Free Tacos 8/4
Print this coupon up to receive two free tacos (retail 99 cents) from your local Jack In the Box this Tuesday, August 4th. One coupon per guest, per visit as always with these coupons, and it's valid all day. (Have each person in your party do their own transaction)
BTW, if your local Jack in the Box is introducing the new Self Service kiosk, they are offering two free tacos with any combo order at the moment. We tried the kiosk at the one in Auburn a couple of weeks ago, and just loved it! It even accepts your payment. If you're like us, and like to see the menu without someone staring you down while you figure out what you want, you'll be in love with it too!
BTW, if your local Jack in the Box is introducing the new Self Service kiosk, they are offering two free tacos with any combo order at the moment. We tried the kiosk at the one in Auburn a couple of weeks ago, and just loved it! It even accepts your payment. If you're like us, and like to see the menu without someone staring you down while you figure out what you want, you'll be in love with it too!
Another Printable Sure Coupon
There's another new printable coupon to save $0.75 off your next purchase of new Sure For Men or any other Sure Anti-perspirant and Deodorant!
There's also supposed to be more Sure coupons in the Sunday paper this coming week. (8/2)
29 July 2009
Printable Cat's Pride Litter Coupon
You can print a coupon to save $1.00 off your next purchase of Cats Pride cat litter! (It's a Smart Source coupon)
Printable Healthy Choice Meals Coupon
There's a new coupon out to save $1.00 off your next purchase of any two Healthy Choice meals! You do have to sign in or sign up to print this, but Healthy Choice sends plenty of good coupons throughout the year - it's worth it.
While you are here, don't forget to check out my other printable coupons to see if there are other coupons available to help you save on your grocery bill!
Barilla Whole Grain Challenge
Barilla is so sure you and your family will love the taste of their Whole Grain Pasta, that they will refund the purchase price with a free product coupon for their regular pasta if you don't.
Offer ends 12/31/09, and you can visit Barilla's website for more details on this offer, and to download the form.
Sneaky way to use it: in casseroles, where your family will never know the difference! Try it with my Creamy Chicken Noodle Bake! My DH has NO idea it's not regular pasta in there. ;)
28 July 2009
Review & Giveaway: Pillsbury Simply Cookies
MyBlogSpark recently asked me if I was interested in reviewing the new Pillsbury refrigerated cookie dough, simply called Simply... (hehe) Like I am going to turn down Pillsbury, hello, I'm in love with the Dough Boy! ;)
These new cookies currently come in two flavors: Chocolate Chip and Peanut Butter. They have zero grams trans fat, no high fructose corn syrup, no artificial colors or flavors and no preservatives. As you know, I like it when I see no HFCS.
While I do a lot of my baking my scratch, I like to have a package of refrigerated dough in my fridge from time to time. Sometimes my DH will come home from work late and crave cookies - having a package of Simply... (or other quick bake) on hand helps me keep him happy without sitting there at midnight baking cookies from scratch. It makes my life a little bit easier. ;)
Now, there would be a photo of my freshly baked Chocolate Chip cookies here, but the cookie monster struck faster than the speed of lightning. I don't even want to admit how quickly these were gobbled up. Seriously... they never even made it near a cookie jar. LOL So I guess, that will tell you'll probably like these if quick bake cookies are your thing.
If you'd like to give Simply... cookies a try too, you can print a coupon to save $1.25 off either variety of Pillsbury Simply.
Win it! I get to give away a Pillsbury Simply... prize pack thanks to MyBlogSpark that contains a coupon to try the cookie of your choice, a small white cookie jar (perfect to embellish!), and a really nice sturdy canvas shopping bag with the Pillsbury logo on it. To enter, I'd like to know which flavor you're going to try first, and share with us a tip you have to keep cooking simple.
As always, you can receive extra entries for:
-Subscribing to my feed or following my blog
-Blogging about this giveaway with a link back
-Tweeting about this giveaway (leave the link or @psychotichouse me)
-Add my blog to your Technorati favs
Contest ends August 8th at 11:59 PM PST. US only, sorry. :( Good luck! :)
These new cookies currently come in two flavors: Chocolate Chip and Peanut Butter. They have zero grams trans fat, no high fructose corn syrup, no artificial colors or flavors and no preservatives. As you know, I like it when I see no HFCS.
While I do a lot of my baking my scratch, I like to have a package of refrigerated dough in my fridge from time to time. Sometimes my DH will come home from work late and crave cookies - having a package of Simply... (or other quick bake) on hand helps me keep him happy without sitting there at midnight baking cookies from scratch. It makes my life a little bit easier. ;)
Now, there would be a photo of my freshly baked Chocolate Chip cookies here, but the cookie monster struck faster than the speed of lightning. I don't even want to admit how quickly these were gobbled up. Seriously... they never even made it near a cookie jar. LOL So I guess, that will tell you'll probably like these if quick bake cookies are your thing.
If you'd like to give Simply... cookies a try too, you can print a coupon to save $1.25 off either variety of Pillsbury Simply.
Win it! I get to give away a Pillsbury Simply... prize pack thanks to MyBlogSpark that contains a coupon to try the cookie of your choice, a small white cookie jar (perfect to embellish!), and a really nice sturdy canvas shopping bag with the Pillsbury logo on it. To enter, I'd like to know which flavor you're going to try first, and share with us a tip you have to keep cooking simple.
As always, you can receive extra entries for:
-Subscribing to my feed or following my blog
-Blogging about this giveaway with a link back
-Tweeting about this giveaway (leave the link or @psychotichouse me)
-Add my blog to your Technorati favs
Contest ends August 8th at 11:59 PM PST. US only, sorry. :( Good luck! :)
Printable Whiskas Purrfectly Dry Coupon
If you'd like to try the new Whiskas Purrfectly Dry cat food kibble, you can save $2.00 off your purchase with this printable coupon! Simply fill out your mailing information, or log in, and you'll be able to print it.
While you are here, don't forget to check out my other printable coupons to see if there are other coupons available to help you save on your grocery bill!
Please note: I take the time out of my busy schedule to share coupons that have landed in my email, I am not affiliated with the companies. Some coupons may be only available for a limited amount of time or for a limited amount of prints. If you come across a coupon that is now dead, please let me know, either by leaving a comment or sending me an email so I can fix the post. Thanks!
Change It Up (Or, Decorate Cheaply!)
With the economy being the way it is, a lot of folks are spending more and more time at home. Now, this can be either a good thing, or a bad thing: obviously, if you love your home, and it's decorated just the way you want, you're in heaven! But some of us are less than thrilled with the way our home is decorated, and with short funds, you may feel like there's not much you can do.
If you're in the latter: fear not, as there are some things that can be done on a shoe string!
The cheapest? How about totally free - simply move your furniture around! (well, maybe you might have to feed some helpers if needed) Switching your bedroom furniture to another wall, moving bookshelves to the other side of the living room - either of these ideas can open up space, or at least help you feel like you've had your home decorated.
Also free: Get rid of clutter and items you don't use, and donate them to a local thrift store or charity. This makes it easier to move your furniture around as well as a possible tax deduction!
Cheaper: Visit Home Depot or WalMart, and check out the Oops paint display. Often there are full gallons of custom paint colors that simply didn't match up to what the customer requested. If you're not picky on getting a certain color, you'll score a new color for your walls for cheap (we picked a pretty red for $2 a few weeks ago at Lowe's!) Sometimes even just changing the color of one wall as an accent wall just makes a room open up! Tip: Ask the clerk if they will remove the lid in front of you so you can verify the amount of paint in the bucket as well as that the color kind of matches the drop swatch on the lid.
Cheaper: Visit stores like the Dollar Tree for wall stickers and borders, as well as artwork and pictures frames. If you're not a regular shopper there, you would be surprised at some of the things you can find. (You can also pick up painting supplies while you are there if you are going the painting route above!) It's an easy fix to help re-do a bathroom or laundry cabinets too!
Cheap: This one works if you can sew - visit the fabric remnants section and purchase fun fabric to recover throw pillows. Bring measurements with you so you are sure the remnants are big enough. Many fabric stores have yardage for as little as $1.00 a yard, so your cost can be minimal!
Sort of cheap: Purchase a sofa slip cover to make it feel like you have a brand new sofa! Check clearance sections for the best deal. If you have lamps, consider purchasing a new lamp shade to change that up as well! (Tip: instead of spending a fortune on the lamp shade, consider purchasing a cheap one, then pulling out the glue gun you may have lurking in your craft supplies (glue bullets can be bought at Dollar Tree!) and attach a yardage or two of pretty ribbon trim (bought at the craft store) along the bottom.
Possibly cheap: Browse your home furnishings section of your local Craigslist. Many folks are trying to make money right now, and you may be able to pick up furniture and decorations for much less than the original retail price. Let's face it: we all buy things we never use, so it's easy to score brand new items! You can also check out your local thrift or resale shop.
If you're in the latter: fear not, as there are some things that can be done on a shoe string!
The cheapest? How about totally free - simply move your furniture around! (well, maybe you might have to feed some helpers if needed) Switching your bedroom furniture to another wall, moving bookshelves to the other side of the living room - either of these ideas can open up space, or at least help you feel like you've had your home decorated.
Also free: Get rid of clutter and items you don't use, and donate them to a local thrift store or charity. This makes it easier to move your furniture around as well as a possible tax deduction!
Cheaper: Visit Home Depot or WalMart, and check out the Oops paint display. Often there are full gallons of custom paint colors that simply didn't match up to what the customer requested. If you're not picky on getting a certain color, you'll score a new color for your walls for cheap (we picked a pretty red for $2 a few weeks ago at Lowe's!) Sometimes even just changing the color of one wall as an accent wall just makes a room open up! Tip: Ask the clerk if they will remove the lid in front of you so you can verify the amount of paint in the bucket as well as that the color kind of matches the drop swatch on the lid.
Cheaper: Visit stores like the Dollar Tree for wall stickers and borders, as well as artwork and pictures frames. If you're not a regular shopper there, you would be surprised at some of the things you can find. (You can also pick up painting supplies while you are there if you are going the painting route above!) It's an easy fix to help re-do a bathroom or laundry cabinets too!
Cheap: This one works if you can sew - visit the fabric remnants section and purchase fun fabric to recover throw pillows. Bring measurements with you so you are sure the remnants are big enough. Many fabric stores have yardage for as little as $1.00 a yard, so your cost can be minimal!
Sort of cheap: Purchase a sofa slip cover to make it feel like you have a brand new sofa! Check clearance sections for the best deal. If you have lamps, consider purchasing a new lamp shade to change that up as well! (Tip: instead of spending a fortune on the lamp shade, consider purchasing a cheap one, then pulling out the glue gun you may have lurking in your craft supplies (glue bullets can be bought at Dollar Tree!) and attach a yardage or two of pretty ribbon trim (bought at the craft store) along the bottom.
Possibly cheap: Browse your home furnishings section of your local Craigslist. Many folks are trying to make money right now, and you may be able to pick up furniture and decorations for much less than the original retail price. Let's face it: we all buy things we never use, so it's easy to score brand new items! You can also check out your local thrift or resale shop.
Once Again, It's Time For Thrift Store Tuesday
Welcome to another week of resale and thrift store shopping!
My question this week...
Almost all of the ones out here price individually, though I've been in thrifts where most items were all one price (kids stuff 99 cents) with a few "nice" items priced a bit higher. (and usually their idea of nice was WalMart brands, with the boutique brands being ignored because they didn't know the brand!)
We haven't really been thrifting this week, but DH found these DVDs for $2 each at the library sale. One was brand new in the plastic so he was happy. (and I have NO idea where to put them as we are out of room on our shelves!)
So did you find anything good?
My question this week...
Does your favorite thrift or resale shop price each item individually, or are certain items all one price? (such as shirts all $4.99, cups all 49 cents)
Almost all of the ones out here price individually, though I've been in thrifts where most items were all one price (kids stuff 99 cents) with a few "nice" items priced a bit higher. (and usually their idea of nice was WalMart brands, with the boutique brands being ignored because they didn't know the brand!)
We haven't really been thrifting this week, but DH found these DVDs for $2 each at the library sale. One was brand new in the plastic so he was happy. (and I have NO idea where to put them as we are out of room on our shelves!)
So did you find anything good?
Random Thoughts Tuesday - The Hot Edition
I found another great deal on ribs at Safeway, so I'm switching out dinner tonight again! Mmmm, slow cooker BBQ ribs! We'll have the chicken tomorrow.
I cannot believe how much stuff in our house is kidlet related. Have we really bought her this much stuff? Does it multiply when we are asleep? I see things I don't even remember buying, lol.
If I can breathe in this heat, I have a couple of projects to work on today. One involved organizing a big old box of hodge podge stuff that's been sitting here since we moved in. Eek!
Sexy = husbands vaccuuming!
I was drying out beach towels from the wading pool before I throw them in the laundry bin (don't want my laundry mildew-y!) and of course, guess what a cat managed to throw up on? Ugh!
We're currently watching Burn Notice season 2, borrowed from the library. We just love that show!
The mail is here - yay! (Tuesday means the new sale ads for Albie's & Safeway!)
I'm going to hate my next electric bill. We are really good, we keep lots of things unplugged if they aren't in use - no small appliances are ever plugged in otherwise. But between the fans and the AC, I know it's going to rack that bill up. :(
I'm in the middle of a laundry buffet. What's a laundry buffet? Finishing off all these half started, nearly empty bottles in my cabinet, lol. That's what happens when I review laundry products! What I was using before I started my review gets pushed aside and starts to stack up. Speaking of laundry products, have I mentioned how much I love Tide Total Care? I totally recommend it if you wash a lot of black like me. (and of course, you don't have skin allergies!)
27 July 2009
I'm Melting!
Seriously, that's what I feel like with this heat! We ran away all day to get out of here - even with the AC on in the bedroom, it's still over 80 in there!
Then we try to come back tonight, and the roads are cut off with their construction - not even through traffic allowed! We had to swing all the way around to Mile Hill and then swing around to the other side. I was so MAD at this point! (Luckily, we have the AC fixed in the car, right? lol)
Menu Planning Monday - The I'm Melting! Edition
With this week as hot as it's supposed to be (in the mid 90's here), I'm not feeling that motivated to do much of anything! I'll be making some pasta and veggie salads late at night to have with our lunches and dinners.
Monday: DH is grilling out
Tuesday: slow cooker sweet BBQ chicken, pasta salad
Wednesday: grilled tuna sandwiches, coleslaw, fruit salad
Thursday: BLT's in wraps, side salad
Friday: recipe of the week (or maybe I make pizza, if it cools down enough)
Saturday: out to dinner
Sunday: cold chicken caeser salad
Check out Organizing Junkie for other great Menu Plans!
26 July 2009
Free Vet Care For Pets
VCA Animal Hospital is offering a FREE Initial Health Exam for all new clients! To receive your coupon, just fill out your information, and a bit about your pet. I believe this is nationwide - VCA Animal Hospitals are located in 39 states! The coupon is good for up to two pets.
Now, this is only valid for the office visit, not any vaccinations or other work you might need, but this saves you $25 - $35, and is a great way to make sure your pet is feeling OK, or if you've just brought in a kitten or puppy to your family, have a wellness check up on them.
We took Housekeeping Cat to the one in Puyallup (it was included in her paperwork from the Pierce Country Humane Society) and we were very pleased with how nice they were with her.
If you are struggling with getting vaccinations done, please remember many Petco locations host once a month a vaccination clinic. The cost is minimal compared to many vets - I've seen it advertised all the main shots for a cat for around $35 (including rabies) and a dog around $50. I know this is still expensive to some, but much cheaper than a vet visit. Also, contact your local human society, or look up a rescue group in your area if you are having problems - many times they can help you, even if it's just sending you along to a vet that gives a discount. (and some vets will allow you to go on a payment plan if needed, too!)
Now, this is only valid for the office visit, not any vaccinations or other work you might need, but this saves you $25 - $35, and is a great way to make sure your pet is feeling OK, or if you've just brought in a kitten or puppy to your family, have a wellness check up on them.
We took Housekeeping Cat to the one in Puyallup (it was included in her paperwork from the Pierce Country Humane Society) and we were very pleased with how nice they were with her.
If you are struggling with getting vaccinations done, please remember many Petco locations host once a month a vaccination clinic. The cost is minimal compared to many vets - I've seen it advertised all the main shots for a cat for around $35 (including rabies) and a dog around $50. I know this is still expensive to some, but much cheaper than a vet visit. Also, contact your local human society, or look up a rescue group in your area if you are having problems - many times they can help you, even if it's just sending you along to a vet that gives a discount. (and some vets will allow you to go on a payment plan if needed, too!)
Review & Giveaway: LTDchix Shopping Totes
I was all excited when I heard LTDchix was coming out with shopping totes! You know I had to ask if I could share them with y'all!
There are two designs available right now: Yoga Mom, and Shopping Mom, both available in different colors. I'm all about shopping of course, so Shopping Mom was right up my alley!
The Shopping Mom bag is a nice bright blue. I don't know how to describe the type of soft fabric, other than to my Fred Meyer folks - it's the same fabric as their black totes you can buy. It's decent sized so you can get a fair amount of groceries in, but I wouldn't suggest carrying four 2 litres or twenty heavy cans in it, that might be pushing it a bit, although it does say up to 40 lbs. I'm too chicken to ruin it trying to carry the extra heavy stuff in it! lol But I tried it out with a 1/2 gallon of milk, a 2 liter of soda, some ice cream (Death By Chocolate - yum!), my newspaper, and a bag of salad, and it was just fine.
It also has a hook in the middle by the handles (I don't know if you can see it in my lousy photos, or not) that is perfect to hang with your purse on the shopping cart handle while you shop if you use a purse hook like I do. Guess what? The fabric is even 100% recyclable! It's also washable, but I would suggest being careful as the design is screened on, and I don't know how many washings it would last through (stick to the boring free bags for carrying meat and other messy things home in!)
Win it! I get to give one of my lucky winners their own Shopping Mom tote just like mine thanks to LTDchix! Yay! To enter, visit their site and tell me which of their t-shirts designs you'd like to see on a tote next! (Or, do you have an idea for a tote from them? Tell us!)
You can get FIVE extra entries if you become a fan of LTDchix on Facebook!
As always, you can receive extra entries for:
-Subscribing to my feed or following my blog
-Blogging about this giveaway with a link back
-Tweeting about this giveaway (leave the link or @psychotichouse me)
-Add my blog to your Technorati favs
Contest ends August 8th at 11:59 PM PST. US only, sorry. :( Good luck! :)
There are two designs available right now: Yoga Mom, and Shopping Mom, both available in different colors. I'm all about shopping of course, so Shopping Mom was right up my alley!
The Shopping Mom bag is a nice bright blue. I don't know how to describe the type of soft fabric, other than to my Fred Meyer folks - it's the same fabric as their black totes you can buy. It's decent sized so you can get a fair amount of groceries in, but I wouldn't suggest carrying four 2 litres or twenty heavy cans in it, that might be pushing it a bit, although it does say up to 40 lbs. I'm too chicken to ruin it trying to carry the extra heavy stuff in it! lol But I tried it out with a 1/2 gallon of milk, a 2 liter of soda, some ice cream (Death By Chocolate - yum!), my newspaper, and a bag of salad, and it was just fine.
It also has a hook in the middle by the handles (I don't know if you can see it in my lousy photos, or not) that is perfect to hang with your purse on the shopping cart handle while you shop if you use a purse hook like I do. Guess what? The fabric is even 100% recyclable! It's also washable, but I would suggest being careful as the design is screened on, and I don't know how many washings it would last through (stick to the boring free bags for carrying meat and other messy things home in!)
Win it! I get to give one of my lucky winners their own Shopping Mom tote just like mine thanks to LTDchix! Yay! To enter, visit their site and tell me which of their t-shirts designs you'd like to see on a tote next! (Or, do you have an idea for a tote from them? Tell us!)
You can get FIVE extra entries if you become a fan of LTDchix on Facebook!
As always, you can receive extra entries for:
-Subscribing to my feed or following my blog
-Blogging about this giveaway with a link back
-Tweeting about this giveaway (leave the link or @psychotichouse me)
-Add my blog to your Technorati favs
Contest ends August 8th at 11:59 PM PST. US only, sorry. :( Good luck! :)
Yay! More Giveaway Winners!
And the winner of the 3 month supply of Dropps Laundry Pacs is:
heaventrees said...
I would like Fresh scent. I probably do about 6 loads per week.
The winner of the coveted Bake Me A Wish cake giveaway is:
geekbearinggifts said...
The Chocolate Mousse Torte Cake and the Peanut Butter Mousse Cake sound just as good as the Triple Chocolate Enrobed Brownie Cake. Thanks for the yummy offer!
And the winner of the Jumpstart 3 month premium membership giveaway is:
LISA said...
I am a subscriber. :)
Congratulations everyone! I've sent you each an email, and need to hear back from you in the next 48 hours.
I have lots of other giveaways I'm about to share with you this week, so stay tuned, and don't forget to check out my Chiquita Smoothies giveaway that started last night!
I Covet - The Kitty Edition
I think this would be adorable on one of our kitties! I'm wish listing this one for sure. This Zebra Velvet Heart Diamante Cat Collar can be found over at Cool Cat Collars.
I actually feel like a bit of a bad cat owner - only DH's cat wears a collar all the time (since she runs out the door and we have to grab her). I really should have them all wearing one, just in case anything would happen. The thing is, they rough house and get caught in them, and I'm always afraid one of them would choke if it wouldn't snap quick enough. Housekeeping Cat once got her paw caught under the collar she was wearing, and it didn't snap at all!
Only our oldest cat has an ID tag, too. I guess it's time to stop procrastinating and take care of this. I see a purple camouflage one that would be cute on The Muffin Man too on there!
I am not responsible if fellow cat lovers go crazy and purchase a bunch of collars, okay? lol
25 July 2009
Flashback Central
Earlier this week, I had one of those flashbacks. You know, the what was I thinking? Holy smokes, I got into that? kind of flashbacks.
Years ago back in the 90's, my best friend from high school who had moved conned me into visiting her near Cincinnati, Ohio. Let me be clear that it's not that I hate Ohio (I'm Ohio State alum), but there's parts of Ohio I can live without.
Upon arrival, she decided we needed to get a drink. I should have known when we pulled up it was going to be an interesting evening.
Think real biker bar, straight out of the movies. Dirt floor and all. This one was playing country music on an ancient jukebox. The bar was in the back, there was a pool table that had seen better days, the lighting was minimal, and the air was filled with smoke. Confederate flags everywhere.
Heads turned when we walked into the door. Apparently, her mother hung out at the bar so she actually knew folks there. Me?
I wanted to turn into a turtle and pull everything back into my shell. Or become an ostrich and stick my head into the sand.
Instead I just clutched my Hello Kitty lunchbox (that was my purse back then) and inwardly whimpered.
Yes, there was me, in my fishnets, plaid skirt, and braids totally standing out.
Definitely not blending in with the scenery.
Guess who was the entertainment for the night? Yeah, ME. LOL That lunchbox was the star of the show. ;)
I still have that lunchbox around here somewhere.
Have any fun flashbacks of your own? :)
Years ago back in the 90's, my best friend from high school who had moved conned me into visiting her near Cincinnati, Ohio. Let me be clear that it's not that I hate Ohio (I'm Ohio State alum), but there's parts of Ohio I can live without.
Upon arrival, she decided we needed to get a drink. I should have known when we pulled up it was going to be an interesting evening.
Think real biker bar, straight out of the movies. Dirt floor and all. This one was playing country music on an ancient jukebox. The bar was in the back, there was a pool table that had seen better days, the lighting was minimal, and the air was filled with smoke. Confederate flags everywhere.
Heads turned when we walked into the door. Apparently, her mother hung out at the bar so she actually knew folks there. Me?
I wanted to turn into a turtle and pull everything back into my shell. Or become an ostrich and stick my head into the sand.
Instead I just clutched my Hello Kitty lunchbox (that was my purse back then) and inwardly whimpered.
Yes, there was me, in my fishnets, plaid skirt, and braids totally standing out.
Definitely not blending in with the scenery.
Guess who was the entertainment for the night? Yeah, ME. LOL That lunchbox was the star of the show. ;)
I still have that lunchbox around here somewhere.
Have any fun flashbacks of your own? :)
Giveaway: Chiquita Smoothies
There's a new quick, and yummy way to have fun smoothies at home without spending ages cutting up fruit, or even making a trip to the mall for your favorite smoothie place (guilty as charged!) New Chiquita Smoothies are making their way out onto the market!
Simply defrost the concentrated mix a little, add it into your blender with 6 ounces of water and 2 cans of ice (crushed or cubed), and mix on high for one minute. Chiquita Smoothies come in four flavors including: Banana Colada, Peach Mango, Mixed Berry, and Strawberry Banana.
Each serving of Chiquita Smoothies provides 100% of your daily vitamin C need (smoothies are a sneaky way to get kids to have healthy food!), and they are all-natural.
Are you drooling yet? I sure am! Unfortunately, Chiquita Smoothies are so new, they're not available yet in my area! :( I have already put in a request to my local Fred Meyer's in hopes that I see it SOON, because I am just itchin' to try the Mixed Berry!
If you'd like to try new Chiquita Smoothies, they currently have a printable coupon up to save $1.00 off your purchase! At a suggested retail price of $2.69 each, if you can combine the coupon with a sale, or if you're one of the lucky ones who have grocery stores who double $1.00 off coupons, it makes a great deal!
While you are on the site, you can also enter to win a tropical vacation for four, or be one of the weekly winners of an Oster blender and a year's supply of Chiquita Smoothies!
Ah... but I have a surprise for you! Win it! Five of my lucky readers will each win 2 coupons to try Chiquita Smoothies FREE! Here's the thing: because Chiquita Smoothies are so new, it may not be available in your area yet :( and the coupons expire at the end of December. So all I ask is that if you enter, make sure you check if it's available at a store near you so the coupons don't go to waste! After you've checked, to enter all I want to know is which flavor you can't wait to try! Easy peasy, right? :)
As always, you can receive extra entries for:
-Subscribing to my feed or following my blog
-Blogging about this giveaway with a link back
-Tweeting about this giveaway (leave the link or @psychotichouse me)
-Add my blog to your Technorati favs
Contest ends August 8th at 11:59 PM PST. Good luck! :)
Simply defrost the concentrated mix a little, add it into your blender with 6 ounces of water and 2 cans of ice (crushed or cubed), and mix on high for one minute. Chiquita Smoothies come in four flavors including: Banana Colada, Peach Mango, Mixed Berry, and Strawberry Banana.
Each serving of Chiquita Smoothies provides 100% of your daily vitamin C need (smoothies are a sneaky way to get kids to have healthy food!), and they are all-natural.
Are you drooling yet? I sure am! Unfortunately, Chiquita Smoothies are so new, they're not available yet in my area! :( I have already put in a request to my local Fred Meyer's in hopes that I see it SOON, because I am just itchin' to try the Mixed Berry!
If you'd like to try new Chiquita Smoothies, they currently have a printable coupon up to save $1.00 off your purchase! At a suggested retail price of $2.69 each, if you can combine the coupon with a sale, or if you're one of the lucky ones who have grocery stores who double $1.00 off coupons, it makes a great deal!
While you are on the site, you can also enter to win a tropical vacation for four, or be one of the weekly winners of an Oster blender and a year's supply of Chiquita Smoothies!
Ah... but I have a surprise for you! Win it! Five of my lucky readers will each win 2 coupons to try Chiquita Smoothies FREE! Here's the thing: because Chiquita Smoothies are so new, it may not be available in your area yet :( and the coupons expire at the end of December. So all I ask is that if you enter, make sure you check if it's available at a store near you so the coupons don't go to waste! After you've checked, to enter all I want to know is which flavor you can't wait to try! Easy peasy, right? :)
As always, you can receive extra entries for:
-Subscribing to my feed or following my blog
-Blogging about this giveaway with a link back
-Tweeting about this giveaway (leave the link or @psychotichouse me)
-Add my blog to your Technorati favs
Contest ends August 8th at 11:59 PM PST. Good luck! :)
Printable Old Orchard Coupons
If you visit the Old Orchard Juices website, they currently have two coupons you can print. One is to save $1.00 off 4 of the 12 oz 100% fruit juice concentrates, and the other lets you save $1.00 off 2 of the 64 oz juice products.
Printable Honey Nut Cheerios Coupon
You can print a coupon to save $1.00 off your next purchase of any Honey Nut Cheerios! (It's a Bricks coupon for those who have problems with Smart Source ones)
While you are here, don't forget to check out my other printable coupons to see if there are other coupons available to help you save on your grocery bill!
Please note: I take the time out of my busy schedule to share coupons that have landed in my email, I am not affiliated with the companies. Some coupons may be only available for a limited amount of time or for a limited amount of prints. If you come across a coupon that is now dead, please let me know, either by leaving a comment or sending me an email so I can fix the post. Thanks!
More New Arm & Hammer Coupons!
I love it when there are new Arm & Hammer printable coupons available, especially for their cat litter! You can print the following coupons currently up on their website, just click on get coupon on the top left hand side:
Save $1.00 off Arm & Hammer Cat Litter Deodorizer Spray
Save $1.00 off Arm & Hammer Whitening Booster
Save $1.00 off any Arm & Hammer Total 2-in-1 Dryer Cloths
Save $3.00 off Arm & Hammer Clear Balance Pool Maintenance Tablets
Save $1.00 off any Arm & Hammer Clumping Cat Litter
Save $0.75 off any Arm & Hammer Clean Shower Daily Shower Cleaner
Save $0.50 off any Arm & Hammer Carpet & Fabric Odor Eliminator Powder
Save $1.00 off any Arm & Hammer Essentials Cleaner Starter Kits
Save $0.75 off any Arm & Hammer Scrub Free Bathroom Cleaner
Save $1.00 off any Arm & Hammer Toothpaste (4 oz & larger)
Save $0.50 off 2 2lb or 4lb Baking Soda OR Fridge Fresh Refrigerator Air Filter
Save $1.00 off Arm & Hammer Laundry Detergent OR 100ct or larger Fabric Softener Sheets
New Scrubbing Bubbles Shower Kit Printable Coupons
There are two new Scrubbing Bubbles Shower Kit printable coupons out! One lets you save $7 off your purchase of the starter kit, the other is a buy one refill, get another refill free coupon! Just fill out your information in order to print them both.
Fred Meyer Deals 7/26 - 8/1 2009
For those interested in contests, or purchase baby items, Fred Meyer is having a contest to rename the little firefly seen on their Comforts brand of baby products. The grand prize is a $10,000 college scholarship for your child! You do have to have a child under the age of 2 to enter this one. Good luck if you decide to enter!
See the entire circular online here or here's the food & home highlights with coupon matches if available:
Beef Loin Petite Sirloin Steaks
$2.99 lb (family packs)
Personal Watermelon
2 for $4
Tuscan Cantaloupe
2 for $4
Clementine Mandarins
$4.88 3lb bag
Horizon Organic Milk Singles
10 for $10 (printable coupon available here click on coupons on bottom left)
Precious String Cheese
2 for $6 (some bags may have $1.00 off peelie on them!)
FM Bottled Water 24pk
2 for $6
Minute Maid Coolers
2 for $3
Tiger's Milk Bars
2 for $1
Hawaiian Tropic Skin Care
$4.99 after in store MC
Tide 50 oz liquid or 70 oz powder
$5.88 ($1.00 off MC
Bounce 100-120 ct
$5.88
Downy 41-51 oz
$5.88
Charmin Bath Tissue 12 big rolls
$6.99 ($0.25 off MC)
Bounty Paper Towels 6 or 8 rolls
$6.99 ($0.25 off MC)
Iams Dry Dog Food
$15.99 15.5 or 17.5 lbs ($1.00 off home mailer MC, also, your purchase should trigger a catalina coupon for $5.00 off your next purchase of Iams. Roll it over onto another bag and stock up!)
Old Spice, Secret, or Gillette Premium Antiperspirant, Deodorant or Body Spray
2 for $7
Mach3, Venus, Good News, Daisy or Custom Plus Disposable Razors
$5.99
Always or Tampax
$6.99 ($0.50 off Always MC)
Schick Quattro Disposable Razors
$2.99 after in store MC
Alli 120 ct
$49.99
Pantene Hair Care
3 for $10 ($1.00 off 2 MC)
L'Oreal Excellence Hair Color
2 for $9.98 after in store MC
Aleve 80-100 ct
$6.99 ($1.00 off MC,
One-A-Day Vitamins
$6.99 ($1.00 off printable at coupons.com)
Crest Speciality Toothpaste
$2.99 ($1.00 off any 2 MC)
got2B Styling Products
$3.99
Olay Definity Skin Care
$19.99
Garnier Nutritioniste Ultra Lift Moisturizer or Cleanser
$9.99 after in store MC
Axe Antiperspirant, Body Wash, Body Spray, Shower Tool
2 for $7 ($1.50 off Tool or Body Wash MC)
Imperial Spread Cubes
10 for $10
FM English Muffins
10 for $10
FM Large Eggs 18 ct
2 for $3
Lay's Chips
2 for $4
Hungry-Man Dinners
$1.88
FM Peanut Butter
2 for $4
FM Preserves
2 for $4
Orowheat Bread
2 for $4
Del Monte Vegetables
4 for $3
FM Cottage Cheese or Sour Cream 16 oz
10 for $10
FM Coffee
$5.49 (excludes Colombian)
Washington Red Cherries
$1.48 lb
Green Beans
$0.98 lb
Fresh Express Garden Salad
$0.98
Walla Walla Sweet Onions
$0.79 lb
Red or Black Plums
$1.48 lb
Large Avocados
2 for $3
Hothouse Tomatoes
$1.48 lb
Bulk Almonds
$3.99 lb
Kettle Baked Potato Chips
2 for $5
Turtle Mountain So Delicious
$3.99
Clif Quench Sports Drinks or Bars
10 for $10
Knudsen Spritzers
$2.99
Santa Cruz Organic Soda
$2.99
Alacer Emergen-C
$8.99
Nature's Way Supplements
Save 30%
Santa Cruz Organic Lemonade or Iced Tea
4 for $5
Bulk Javatopia Organic Coffee
$6.99 lb
Organic Artisan Bread
2 for $6 (bakery)
Organic Mini Peeled Carrots
5 for $5 (1 lb bag)
Organic Peaches or Nectarines
$1.98 lb
Organic Strawberries
2 for $5 (1 lb)
Private Selection Organic Chicken Breasts
$6.99 lb
Fresh Wild Alaskan Whole Silver Salmon
$4.99 lb
Medium Cooked Shrimp
$4.99 lb
Fresh Dungeness Crab
$5.99 6 oz
King Crab Meat
$5.99 8 oz
Wild Canadian Lobster Tail
$5.99
Fresh Boneless Skinless Fryer Breasts
$2.28 lb (family pack)
Fresh Fryer Leg Quarters
$0.89 lb (jumbo packs)
Fresh Fryer Drumsticks or Thighs
$0.99 lb (jumbo packs)
Beef Rib Eye Steak
$5.98 lb (family pack)
Fresh Extra Lean Ground Beef
$3.18 lb
Baby Back Pork Ribs
$3.99 lb
Lloyd's BBQ Meats or Chi-Chi's Taco Seasoned Meats
$3.99 lb
Mountain Dairy Gallon Milk or Orange Juice
3 for $5 w/ in ad coupon (limit 3)
Prilosec OTC
$7.99 w/ in ad coupon (limit 2)
Big K Soda Pop
6 for $10 w/ in ad coupon (limit 6)
Bandon Cheese 2lb
$4.49 w/ in ad coupon (limit 2)
General Mills Cereals
5 for $10 w/ in ad coupon (limit 5) (assorted coupons out there)
Tony's Pizza or Private Selection Flatbread Pizza
3 for $5 w/ in ad coupon (limit 6)
Classico Pasta Sauce
2 for $3 w/ in ad coupon (limit 8)
FM Deli Meat
2 for $5 w/ in ad coupon (limit 4)
FM Grilling Sausage
2 for $5 w/ in ad coupon (limit 5)
Hershey's Standard Size Candy Bars
3 for $1 w/ in ad coupon (limit 6)
All Home clearance is 40% the lowest marked price!
Don't forget to use your reward coupons - you should have already received them! If you have not received them yet, be sure to contact Fred Meyer!
Unfamiliar with Fred Meyer's coupon policy? They allow you stack a Fred Meyer store coupon (FM coupons as I call them) with a manufacturer's coupon. They do not price match to any other store's sale prices, and they won't take other store's sale coupons. You can however use a manufacturer's coupons on any sale or clearance items, but they usually won't allow any overage if the coupon is more than the sale price (sometimes it slips through the cracks, but don't expect it every time). Our local Washington stores do not double any coupons. They do accept the printed internet coupons if they have a barcode (like bricks coupons or from Smart Source or coupons.com if you are unfamiliar with them) so if you are having problems with a clerk not wanting to accept your coupon and you are sure it's legit coupon, please ask to have a manager come on over to verify it.
For more sites listing other stores sales ads and coupon match ups, please visit BeCentsAble - home of the original Grocery Gathering!
24 July 2009
Printable Movie Staycation Coupon
Sony Pictures has a PDF coupon out that you can use to save $2.00 off any movie that's part of their Movie Staycation promotion. You can also print a coupon to save $3.00 off the Blu-Ray version of the Movie Staycation movies.
You might want to check with the site for the list of the DVD's before printing it, but it looks like there might be some good ones included in the list, such as Resident Evil and Underworld on Blu-Ray.
BTW, the coupons are good through October 31st, 2009, so there's time to match them up with sales! (Fred Meyer folks, those 10% off DVD coupons should work with this printable coupon for extra savings!)
And you can also order online through Amazon and Deep Discount to get the discount too.
You might want to check with the site for the list of the DVD's before printing it, but it looks like there might be some good ones included in the list, such as Resident Evil and Underworld on Blu-Ray.
BTW, the coupons are good through October 31st, 2009, so there's time to match them up with sales! (Fred Meyer folks, those 10% off DVD coupons should work with this printable coupon for extra savings!)
And you can also order online through Amazon and Deep Discount to get the discount too.
TV Show Review: Dinosaur Train
My greatest wish would be for fish
My family recently got a sneak peek at the new PBS television show for kids, Dinosaur Train, from the Henson masterminds! (If you'd like to see my previous post announcing this new show, with more background information, click on over here!)
I've got to tell you, not only are the dinosaur characters cute, the theme song is even cuter!
The dinosaur train takes the dinosaurs everywhere, and brings visitors in. The show features lots of things to learn about the different dinosaurs, and helps teach kids values too.
The show kind of reminded me of a cross between The Land Before Time and Dinosaurs, the TV show from the early 90's. If you'll recall, dinosaurs was a Henson show too, so there's not that much of a stretch... just not as obnoxious as Dinosaurs was. ;)
The end of each episode features Dr. Scott, who teaches even more about different dinosaurs and how they lived.
Our final verdict: A+ for learning. We are so excited for this show!
Dinosaur Train will air on your local PBS show this coming Fall starting Monday, September 7th 2009! You'll have to check your local station to air times, since it varies from market to market. (Homeschoolers: this show is definitely worthy of a dinosaur tie-in!)
If you'd like a mini sneak peek, here's a video for you:
Direct link for the feedreaders here.
Crud!
DH came home last night and told me they are making changes at work, and they are cutting hours... again... Now most employees are all basically below part time level, and he's already taken pay cuts on top of the last hour cut awhile back.
I am good at being thrifty - I've stockpiled enough that we wouldn't run out of toilet paper for a few months ;) - but I think we've reached the limit on this one.
Murphy's Law strikes again. I am seriously waving the white flag over here.
I am good at being thrifty - I've stockpiled enough that we wouldn't run out of toilet paper for a few months ;) - but I think we've reached the limit on this one.
Murphy's Law strikes again. I am seriously waving the white flag over here.
Aloha Friday Makes Another Appearance
I'm participating in Aloha Friday this week, hosted by An Island Life.
My question this week:
Do you love buying school supplies? (Even if you don't have kids, who can resist new crayons? lol)
23 July 2009
Blog Tour: Making Life Better
Mom Central recently asked me to help get the word out about author Jennifer Bushman (author of the "Kitchen Coach" cookbook series), who with Unilver's help, created the ultimate Family Fun Book, that is filled with delicious recipes and affordable meal ideas perfect for the whole family. You know me, I heard the word recipes and I was all excited! lol
If you'd like to download the book, you can do it for FREE over here. My favorite recipe that I can't wait to try is the Upside Down Deep Dish Pizza - it looks yummy! The Spicy Cashew Chicken looks good too, and at $2.53 a serving (less for us couponers *wink*), it is definitely a budget friendly dinner that makes you feel like you have expensive take out! You can also check out their entire Making Life Better website for all sorts of goodies.
Here are some of the suggestions:
I love using salad dressings as marinades for our veggies and meats! Italian dressing is great for that, and so are many of the vinaigrettes out there. And generally, salad dressing is a lot cheaper than marinades, so it's more budget friendly.
I've already told you that Mom Central asked me to tell you about this, but with the whole new FTC hoopla I guess, I have to include this disclaimer in my post:
I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Unilever/Making Life Better. Mom Central sent me a gift card and a copy of the Family Fun Book to thank me for taking the time to participate.
If you'd like to download the book, you can do it for FREE over here. My favorite recipe that I can't wait to try is the Upside Down Deep Dish Pizza - it looks yummy! The Spicy Cashew Chicken looks good too, and at $2.53 a serving (less for us couponers *wink*), it is definitely a budget friendly dinner that makes you feel like you have expensive take out! You can also check out their entire Making Life Better website for all sorts of goodies.
Here are some of the suggestions:
Have an at-home dinner picnic. Spread a blanket out in the living room and prepare simple sandwiches or wraps, like a delicious Chicken & Basil Sandwich. Opt for Hellmann's Light Mayonnaise, which has the great taste but half the calories and fat of Hellmann's. Get the kids involved by letting them pick the sandwich fixins and spread the mayo!
Save on cooking and clean-up time by choosing easy, delicious, one-pot dips and recipes. Use sweet potatoes or yams to prepare Spicy Oven Fries and pair with your favorite dipping sauce. To sneak in some nutrition and receive 20 percent of your daily value of Vitamin D, top with melted Shedd's Spread Country Crock Calcium Plus Vitamin D. With just three steps, this recipe is perfect for setting loose your child's inner chef.
To make nights in even more enjoyable, pair meals with fun at-home entertainment. Spend less time in the kitchen by using Knorr Rice Sides to make an easy one-dish meal like Grilled Chicken & Veggies Over Rice, then create a show by letting your kids sing their favorite songs in your very own "kitchen cabaret."
Host a camping-inspired sleepover for the kids and create a kitchen retreat with campfire meals. Use whole grain tortillas as a healthy and easy dipper for your favorite one-pot recipes like Super Easy Slow-Cooked Chili with Ragu Pasta Sauce, which packs a full serving of vegetables in every half-cup of sauce. Not to mention that a slow cooked meal leaves more time for "camping" activities!
Use versatile ingredients from your well-stocked pantry. Wish-Bone Dressings can do double-duty as delicious salad dressings and simple, great tasting marinades for chicken, pork, beef and fish. Pair with soy sauce for a delicious Asian Grilled Steak. You may want to keep your children away from the grill, but they can help by preparing the steak ahead of time.
Summer and iced tea go hand-in-hand to stay hydrated. Did you know those tea bags can also spice up your cooking? Use Lipton Teabags to create Tasty Tea Baked Apples – a delicious desert with an extra helping of antioxidants for just $1 per serving.
I love using salad dressings as marinades for our veggies and meats! Italian dressing is great for that, and so are many of the vinaigrettes out there. And generally, salad dressing is a lot cheaper than marinades, so it's more budget friendly.
I've already told you that Mom Central asked me to tell you about this, but with the whole new FTC hoopla I guess, I have to include this disclaimer in my post:
I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Unilever/Making Life Better. Mom Central sent me a gift card and a copy of the Family Fun Book to thank me for taking the time to participate.
Thrifty Thursday - Frugal Ways To Deal With Bugs
This week for my Thrifty Thursday post, I'm talking about frugal, and environmentally friendly ways to deal with bugs and insect bites.
Baking soda is the best for many insect stings and bites. Make a small paste using a tablespoon of baking soda, and a bit of water, and rub it directly onto the bite. It will help neutralize it, and of course, the cost is virtually minimal! Much cheaper than $4 for a tube of decent anti-itch cream that expires before you remember you own it. ;)
For mosquito bites, try witch hazel, or a bit of apple vinegar cider on a q-tip or cotton ball and rub it against the bite. Again, the cost is minimal, and you are avoiding chemicals.
Soak a cotton ball in orange essential oil to get rid of pests sneaking into your kitchen cabinets. Be careful with this depending on your cabinet's finish - you may want to pass it onto an old milk cap that's been carefully rinsed before placing it into the cabinet. A sprinkle of pepper works too, but I find that a bit messy for my taste.
To keep bugs out of your flour and sugar, place a bay leaf inside the jar or bag. Bugs HATE bay leafs!
Encourage lady bugs to live in your garden to keep other bugs from eating your plants instead of using dangerous chemicals. If you have kids, you can even purchase a lady bug kit to help grow your own, and make it an exciting project for them!
Spray vinegar in a spray bottle across ant trails. Or sprinkle talcum or baby powder where you are having ants come in your house or on your deck. (Remember, if using outdoors, you'll have to reapply often, especially if it's been raining!)
If you have a slug problem, pour some cheap beer into a dish so that's it's an inch or two deep. The slugs will drown in it. (Be warned, it's really icky if you try this one - if you're squeamish like me, this is a chore for your DH lol) Sometimes grape or other really sweet juices will work too if you don't keep alcohol around, just remember - it could attract ants and flies, so change it out on a daily basis until all the slugs are gone.
Feeding the birds also helps get rid of many bugs. So does putting up a bat house for the bats, or a toad house for toads. The cost is minimal, especially if you make one yourself from wood scraps gotten off of Craigslist or Freecycle. And, again, it's environmentally friendly. Check with stores like Lowe's and Home Depot for kids clinic so your kids can make bird houses free of charge!
Baking soda is the best for many insect stings and bites. Make a small paste using a tablespoon of baking soda, and a bit of water, and rub it directly onto the bite. It will help neutralize it, and of course, the cost is virtually minimal! Much cheaper than $4 for a tube of decent anti-itch cream that expires before you remember you own it. ;)
For mosquito bites, try witch hazel, or a bit of apple vinegar cider on a q-tip or cotton ball and rub it against the bite. Again, the cost is minimal, and you are avoiding chemicals.
Soak a cotton ball in orange essential oil to get rid of pests sneaking into your kitchen cabinets. Be careful with this depending on your cabinet's finish - you may want to pass it onto an old milk cap that's been carefully rinsed before placing it into the cabinet. A sprinkle of pepper works too, but I find that a bit messy for my taste.
To keep bugs out of your flour and sugar, place a bay leaf inside the jar or bag. Bugs HATE bay leafs!
Encourage lady bugs to live in your garden to keep other bugs from eating your plants instead of using dangerous chemicals. If you have kids, you can even purchase a lady bug kit to help grow your own, and make it an exciting project for them!
Spray vinegar in a spray bottle across ant trails. Or sprinkle talcum or baby powder where you are having ants come in your house or on your deck. (Remember, if using outdoors, you'll have to reapply often, especially if it's been raining!)
If you have a slug problem, pour some cheap beer into a dish so that's it's an inch or two deep. The slugs will drown in it. (Be warned, it's really icky if you try this one - if you're squeamish like me, this is a chore for your DH lol) Sometimes grape or other really sweet juices will work too if you don't keep alcohol around, just remember - it could attract ants and flies, so change it out on a daily basis until all the slugs are gone.
Feeding the birds also helps get rid of many bugs. So does putting up a bat house for the bats, or a toad house for toads. The cost is minimal, especially if you make one yourself from wood scraps gotten off of Craigslist or Freecycle. And, again, it's environmentally friendly. Check with stores like Lowe's and Home Depot for kids clinic so your kids can make bird houses free of charge!
Free Splenda Samples
Splenda is offering free samples of several of their products. You can choose from Splenda No Calorie Sweetner with Fiber, Splenda No Calorie Sweetner Flavors For Coffee Hazelnet, or Splenda No Calorie Sweetner Flavors For Coffee Mocha.
22 July 2009
Review: Smooshies
Hey, it seems to be toy week around here, and One2One Network recently sent us a Smooshie to review!
Smooshies are kooky, cuddly creatures that look like silly little monsters. The fun part is that all their features are interchangeable, kind of like a Potato Head! They have little velcro tabs, and you can switch out arms, eyes, etc. You can also purchase extra additional body parts to make them even more different!
Here's the Smooshies we were sent before we started making silly faces with him and some extra body parts:
Isn't he FUN? Look at those blue leopard arms! The blue plush is super soft, and all the velcro tabs are attached pretty well, so he should last for lots and lots of body part changes!
Now Smooshies are supposed to be for ages 3 and up (shhh! We supervised as our particular Smooshie had pretty big parts on him) You can purchase them online exclusively at Joann.com - and you purchase the body parts a la carte so if you just want an extra set of eyes, or the blue leopard arms like ours above, it's super easy! Body parts start at just $1.99.
Smooshies are kooky, cuddly creatures that look like silly little monsters. The fun part is that all their features are interchangeable, kind of like a Potato Head! They have little velcro tabs, and you can switch out arms, eyes, etc. You can also purchase extra additional body parts to make them even more different!
Here's the Smooshies we were sent before we started making silly faces with him and some extra body parts:
Isn't he FUN? Look at those blue leopard arms! The blue plush is super soft, and all the velcro tabs are attached pretty well, so he should last for lots and lots of body part changes!
Now Smooshies are supposed to be for ages 3 and up (shhh! We supervised as our particular Smooshie had pretty big parts on him) You can purchase them online exclusively at Joann.com - and you purchase the body parts a la carte so if you just want an extra set of eyes, or the blue leopard arms like ours above, it's super easy! Body parts start at just $1.99.
Lucky Winners! Are You One?
With everything that has happened lately, I totally dropped the ball and forgot to post winners! Gah, I feel so bad - sorry folks! :(
The winner of the Smart Mama's Green Guide book giveaway is:
stevlobrow said...
We make all of our own cleaners (toilet, floor, etc.) using simple recipes with non-toxic substances like baking soda, vinegar, rubbing alcohol, hydrogen peroxide and the like. We buy all that stuff in bulk at our local warehouse store. It's simple and cheap.
We also use cloth diapers for our daughter.
The winner of the The Simple Stencil $50 gift certificate is:
AnotherThriftyMom said...
Oh so many to choose from, how do I decide?!
I would get the "cute as a bug" for my daughter's room and the cherish yesterday, dream tomorrow, live today!
Or so MANY choices, I can't decide!
Congratulations! I've sent you both an email!
Washington Couponers, A Shelter Needs Help!
I just got word that Wenatchee Valley Humane Society is completely out of dry kitten food! Apparently they currently have over 100 small kittens in their care, and they are just desperate. If you have Purina Kitten Chow or Purina One Kitten Chow coupons and can make a deal, they can really use it right now! Donations can be dropped off at 1474 South Wenatchee Avenue, Monday through Friday from 11am to 6pm or Saturdays from 11am to 3pm. I'm sure they can also use adult cat food too, so don't be afraid to drop it off if you have a deal you can make on it!
You can also donate funds online if you choose, and it is tax deductible. And of course, if you have room in your family, these kittens and cats need homes! With the adoption cost, their shots and spay/neuter are included, as well as microchipped, too. (Regular Adoption Fees for dogs start at $90 unless otherwise noted in pet’s description and cats are $50 - you can't beat that for the cost of the medical care!)
If you're reading this from another area in the country, don't forget your local animal shelters too. The majority of them are overwhelmed with pets due to the economy and donations trickle in. Some shelters, even just old blankets and towels are a huge donation for them.
You can also donate funds online if you choose, and it is tax deductible. And of course, if you have room in your family, these kittens and cats need homes! With the adoption cost, their shots and spay/neuter are included, as well as microchipped, too. (Regular Adoption Fees for dogs start at $90 unless otherwise noted in pet’s description and cats are $50 - you can't beat that for the cost of the medical care!)
If you're reading this from another area in the country, don't forget your local animal shelters too. The majority of them are overwhelmed with pets due to the economy and donations trickle in. Some shelters, even just old blankets and towels are a huge donation for them.
Printable Ziploc Products Coupon
Ziploc has a new coupon out to save $1.50 off any two Ziploc products! Just fill out your name and mailing address in order to print it.
Combine it with the back to school sales that are beginning to crop up, and you can end up with Ziploc products for free or very cheap!
Printable Reynolds Parchment Paper Coupon
You can print a coupon to save $0.75 off your next purchase of any Reynolds Parchment Paper. (It's a Bricks coupon)
21 July 2009
Random Thoughts Tuesday - The Late Edition
It was 93 degrees today according to a bank sign we saw in Bremerton. It was hot and humid heat too, South Texas heat, lol. The kind of heat I never missed!
Hot Topic normally annoys me, but they are quickly becoming my favorite spot for cheap make up. Today I scored red liquid eyeliner for 98 cents. It's a different product and color one at a time every time I go in that's marked down, but hey, I'll take it! Maybe next time I will get lucky and they will have some more purple for me. ;)
I have gone from sadness to anger. Words simply cannot describe my anger. And I want everything that we spent donated to Corgi Aid. And then some. I want the whole world to know what they did to our baby girl. I am filing a complaint with the Washington State Board for vets, and I will tell everyone that listens what The Animal Emergency Clinic did. I will not let this happen to anyone else, our suffering will not be in vain!
We are currently watching The Watchmen. I rented it from Redbox after I got mad - Bremerton's WalMart had the DVD at one price, but they were out, so on the way back home we hit the Port Orchard location. They were in stock alright, but their prices were HIGHER! No way! So I ordered it from Amazon for a lot cheaper. *sticks her tongue out to P.O.'s WalMart*
My mother brought in one of our patio chairs from outside to sit in and put one of our beach towels over. The cats think it is the GREATEST! LOL There's always one on it, and two under it. Never mind that they have their own furniture - go figure.
I found a great deal on ribs at Albertson's, so I'm waiting on my slow cooker BBQ ribs to finish cooking. I couldn't resist changing the menu when I saw the price at $1.00 a pound - we can't even eat off the dollar menu for the cost of dinner tonight! ($1.00 for a bag of lettuce, $4 for ribs and there will be leftovers for pulled sandwiches for lunch tomorrow) It smells so good my mouth is watering!
Thrift Store Tuesday - The Double Edition
Welcome to another week of resale and thrift store shopping!
My question this week:
Did you find anything good this week? The zebra coat I found last week but didn't get to show it off since I ran out of time to post Thrift Store Tuesday last week. (sorry!) I found it for $2.50! I am in total heaven! ;)
Yesterday we also went shopping, DH found the movies, and I also picked up a nice black velour floor length dress for $1.29. (it's in the laundry, so no photos) Not too bad this time!
What's your finds?
My question this week:
Do you feel your stores are better stocked in the summer during garage and yard sale season, or during the winter when people don't have the option to have a sale in most parts of the country due to the weather?
Did you find anything good this week? The zebra coat I found last week but didn't get to show it off since I ran out of time to post Thrift Store Tuesday last week. (sorry!) I found it for $2.50! I am in total heaven! ;)
Yesterday we also went shopping, DH found the movies, and I also picked up a nice black velour floor length dress for $1.29. (it's in the laundry, so no photos) Not too bad this time!
What's your finds?
Pretty Picture Frame For A Princess
I just wanted to share the beautiful frame we purchased for our Pudgy Princess's photo that was supposed to go next to her urn. Isn't it gorgeous? So perfectly fitting with all those sparkly crystal rhinestones! (I know it's not the best of photos) It's from Nordstrom:
20 July 2009
I Am Hysterical Right Now!
The Animal Emergency Clinic in Tacoma LOST our baby girl's ashes!!!! They dumped them somewhere and we can't even bring our little girl home!!!
I am so upset right now, I will finish this post later. I cannot believe this!!
Edit (and I'll probably add more again later):
I never asked how much anything cost from the moment we walked through the doors of The Animal Emergency Clinic. All we wanted was our little girl feeling better.
I knew something was wrong when we were told 2 to 3 days before we would have her ashes back and every time we would call, they kept telling us to call back. Now we call today and they tell us they LOST her? WTH?
The Animal Emergency Clinic covered and covered for a mistake made in their clinic, making excuses time after time, and lying to us for a week until they couldn't cover any more. This makes me so SICK!
And the manager goes into a spiel about how many pets they help. Yes, fine, I understand that they are known as a good clinic, but you know what, I do rescues, and I help pets too - how can you loose the most important pet we've ever owned? Your clinic would not be in business if not for people like me paying your paycheck! This is NOT ACCEPTABLE!
We paid for private cremation, apparently, somehow along the way, they mixed her up with general cremation pets, and her ashes were supposedly dropped near Mt. Rainier. We have no proof whatsoever that this was done, either! The clinic lied to us multiples times, who is to say where her ashes really are?
I haven't blogged this part either, because it's been really hard for me... but when we went to put her to sleep, we were assured she had been sedated. I've put several pets to sleep before, so I understood. However, Pudgy was not sedated properly, and when they went to add the medication through her IV, she started freaking out trying to rip the IV out.
I am scarred from this. I've never heard of this happening before, but the veterinarian tried to say it happens sometimes. NO, IT DOESN'T! There is something very, very wrong at The Animal Emergency Clinic!
Every time I close my eyes I see this happening over and over again. My heart broke, because I felt like a murderer. It was so hard for me to agree to the euthanasia as it was, because she looked so much better when we came to the clinic that morning, and it's hard for me to agree to this when I don't even believe in abortion. (It may seem screwed up to some folks, but a life is a life to me) I had a different vet every time we walked through the doors at The Animal Emergency Clinic, and every time I felt like they were telling me something different.
Not once on any of my pets have I ever blinked an eye at how much something cost. If I was short on money, they ate fine, I went without. That's the way it always has been. If a critter walks through our doors, they are spoiled rotten.
So now, we can't even take her with us back home to Texas. She's here in a state, we will never come back to, thrown onto the ground like trash. They treated her like TRASH!! How is this right?
I'll be contacting Washington's Veterinary Board about this.
I hope and I pray, that this never happens to anyone else. May we hurt so no one else has to.
I am so upset right now, I will finish this post later. I cannot believe this!!
Edit (and I'll probably add more again later):
I never asked how much anything cost from the moment we walked through the doors of The Animal Emergency Clinic. All we wanted was our little girl feeling better.
I knew something was wrong when we were told 2 to 3 days before we would have her ashes back and every time we would call, they kept telling us to call back. Now we call today and they tell us they LOST her? WTH?
The Animal Emergency Clinic covered and covered for a mistake made in their clinic, making excuses time after time, and lying to us for a week until they couldn't cover any more. This makes me so SICK!
And the manager goes into a spiel about how many pets they help. Yes, fine, I understand that they are known as a good clinic, but you know what, I do rescues, and I help pets too - how can you loose the most important pet we've ever owned? Your clinic would not be in business if not for people like me paying your paycheck! This is NOT ACCEPTABLE!
We paid for private cremation, apparently, somehow along the way, they mixed her up with general cremation pets, and her ashes were supposedly dropped near Mt. Rainier. We have no proof whatsoever that this was done, either! The clinic lied to us multiples times, who is to say where her ashes really are?
I haven't blogged this part either, because it's been really hard for me... but when we went to put her to sleep, we were assured she had been sedated. I've put several pets to sleep before, so I understood. However, Pudgy was not sedated properly, and when they went to add the medication through her IV, she started freaking out trying to rip the IV out.
I am scarred from this. I've never heard of this happening before, but the veterinarian tried to say it happens sometimes. NO, IT DOESN'T! There is something very, very wrong at The Animal Emergency Clinic!
Every time I close my eyes I see this happening over and over again. My heart broke, because I felt like a murderer. It was so hard for me to agree to the euthanasia as it was, because she looked so much better when we came to the clinic that morning, and it's hard for me to agree to this when I don't even believe in abortion. (It may seem screwed up to some folks, but a life is a life to me) I had a different vet every time we walked through the doors at The Animal Emergency Clinic, and every time I felt like they were telling me something different.
Not once on any of my pets have I ever blinked an eye at how much something cost. If I was short on money, they ate fine, I went without. That's the way it always has been. If a critter walks through our doors, they are spoiled rotten.
So now, we can't even take her with us back home to Texas. She's here in a state, we will never come back to, thrown onto the ground like trash. They treated her like TRASH!! How is this right?
I'll be contacting Washington's Veterinary Board about this.
I hope and I pray, that this never happens to anyone else. May we hurt so no one else has to.
Menu Planning Monday (Is it Monday already?)
I mean seriously, didn't I just plan our menu like yesterday? lol Here's hoping this week's recipe of the week is better than last week's - it was not one of my finer moments in the kitchen. Eeek!
Monday: slow cooker roasted chicken, veggies, rolls
Tuesday: DH is grilling out
Wednesday: spagetti and meatballs, garlic bread
Thursday: Quesadillas
Friday: recipe of the week
Saturday: Mexican Bake
Sunday: roast, Italian Veggies, rolls
Check out Organizing Junkie for other great Menu Plans!
19 July 2009
RANT ON!
If you're not an animal person, you may want to back out of this post slowly. I won't be offended. ;)
I've been looking on Craigslist the last couple of days, and I probably shouldn't be, because I have never seen so many STUPID people in my life. Here's one:
My boyfriend is making me give away my pets please e mail.
Honey, I hate to break it to you, but if he doesn't like animals, and you have 5 pets, he's not the right man for you. No man that loves you would ever ask you to get rid of your pets. And he's your boyfriend, not your husband - so who cares what he thinks? What is wrong with you girls today???
Here's another one:
I just found out I'm pregnant, and my husband is about to leave for Iraq. I can't clean the litterbox, so I'm trying to find a new home for our cat.
There is SO much misinformation out there about this issue! Yes, toxoplasmosis is a real threat, but it's easily avoided - it's called latex gloves, and washing your hands when you're done. Clean the litterbox out on a daily basis, or get one of those nifty new self cleaning litterboxes, and you don't have to worry about it. If you're cat is indoors only, and has been all it's life, again, the risk is slim to none. If you're panicking, wear a medical mask. You can order a box online with 50 of them for less than $20, and that should get you through most of your pregnancy.
And how about this one:
We're moving out of state and can't take our pets along. We have to find them a home right now. If no one wants them we will drop them at the shelter.
You've had your pets for years, and now you looked for a place to rent that doesn't allow pets? 1 out of every 2 apartments allow pets, how hard is it to choose one that does? And don't tell me the trip is too much for your pets - we did it with 2 cats and one dog, and it's over 2000 miles. Grow up people!
And the best one, on a corgi that was dumped at a shelter in Wyoming, and given up for chasing livestock - Congratulations, you're the idiot of the year. Corgi's are HERDING dogs, they are bred to chase and herd livestock!
I've been looking on Craigslist the last couple of days, and I probably shouldn't be, because I have never seen so many STUPID people in my life. Here's one:
My boyfriend is making me give away my pets please e mail.
Honey, I hate to break it to you, but if he doesn't like animals, and you have 5 pets, he's not the right man for you. No man that loves you would ever ask you to get rid of your pets. And he's your boyfriend, not your husband - so who cares what he thinks? What is wrong with you girls today???
Here's another one:
I just found out I'm pregnant, and my husband is about to leave for Iraq. I can't clean the litterbox, so I'm trying to find a new home for our cat.
There is SO much misinformation out there about this issue! Yes, toxoplasmosis is a real threat, but it's easily avoided - it's called latex gloves, and washing your hands when you're done. Clean the litterbox out on a daily basis, or get one of those nifty new self cleaning litterboxes, and you don't have to worry about it. If you're cat is indoors only, and has been all it's life, again, the risk is slim to none. If you're panicking, wear a medical mask. You can order a box online with 50 of them for less than $20, and that should get you through most of your pregnancy.
And how about this one:
We're moving out of state and can't take our pets along. We have to find them a home right now. If no one wants them we will drop them at the shelter.
You've had your pets for years, and now you looked for a place to rent that doesn't allow pets? 1 out of every 2 apartments allow pets, how hard is it to choose one that does? And don't tell me the trip is too much for your pets - we did it with 2 cats and one dog, and it's over 2000 miles. Grow up people!
And the best one, on a corgi that was dumped at a shelter in Wyoming, and given up for chasing livestock - Congratulations, you're the idiot of the year. Corgi's are HERDING dogs, they are bred to chase and herd livestock!
Keep Your Kitchen Cooler
As hot as it is during these Summer months, I find myself groaning at the thought of making dinner and making my kitchen any warmer than it already is. Here is a few ideas to make meals while staying cool:
Use your microwave. I actually don't use ours, (I know! The horrors!) but your microwave doesn't really give off heat. (Keep it unplugged when not in use to keep it totally cool!) Take advantage of frozen vegetables that come in steamable bags, or purchase the Ziploc bags that you can steam fresh veggies, fish, and chicken in.
Use your crock pot! Your crock pot doesn't give off a ton of heat either when set to low. Make a double portion and re-heat the extras the following day for lunch or dinner in the microwave. You can easily freeze leftovers for dinners the following week as well!
Look for summer salad recipes on the internet. Many can be made cheaply with pasta or veggies. Cook any pasta early in the morning, or late at night when it's not so hot, then store for up to 2 or 3 days in your fridge for quick and easy side dishes!
Grill out! Let cheaper cuts of meats marinate overnight. Grill extra chicken that you can turn into chicken salad sandwiches or salads the following night - no re-heating needed!
Instead of using your oven, invest in a small toaster oven. We often make even pizza in ours. It doesn't give off as much heat as a regular oven, and the bonus is that it costs much less to use.
Even if you have air conditioning throughout your home, try to keep a fan circulating while cooking in your kitchen. It will help any warm air keep moving instead of hovering, and help stop your air conditioner from having to work harder!
Use your microwave. I actually don't use ours, (I know! The horrors!) but your microwave doesn't really give off heat. (Keep it unplugged when not in use to keep it totally cool!) Take advantage of frozen vegetables that come in steamable bags, or purchase the Ziploc bags that you can steam fresh veggies, fish, and chicken in.
Use your crock pot! Your crock pot doesn't give off a ton of heat either when set to low. Make a double portion and re-heat the extras the following day for lunch or dinner in the microwave. You can easily freeze leftovers for dinners the following week as well!
Look for summer salad recipes on the internet. Many can be made cheaply with pasta or veggies. Cook any pasta early in the morning, or late at night when it's not so hot, then store for up to 2 or 3 days in your fridge for quick and easy side dishes!
Grill out! Let cheaper cuts of meats marinate overnight. Grill extra chicken that you can turn into chicken salad sandwiches or salads the following night - no re-heating needed!
Instead of using your oven, invest in a small toaster oven. We often make even pizza in ours. It doesn't give off as much heat as a regular oven, and the bonus is that it costs much less to use.
Even if you have air conditioning throughout your home, try to keep a fan circulating while cooking in your kitchen. It will help any warm air keep moving instead of hovering, and help stop your air conditioner from having to work harder!
18 July 2009
Um, Yeah....
Today, I have the motivation of a snail.
No, wait - a snail has more motivation than me!
Anyone else feel the same?
No, wait - a snail has more motivation than me!
Anyone else feel the same?
Fred Meyer Deals 7/19 - 7/25 2009
See the entire circular online here or here's the food & home highlights with coupon matches if available:
Red, Green, or Black Grapes
$0.88 lb
Foster Farms Fresh Fryer Breasts
$0.99 lb (bone in jumbo packs)
FM Half Gallon Milk or Orange Juice
10 for $10
Barilla Pasta
$1.00
Cascade Ice Sparkling Water
$1.00
Glaceau Vitamin or Smart Water
$1.00
Knudsen Recharge
$1.00
Junior Mints, Dots, Crows, or Charleston Chews
$1.00
Betty Crocker Helpers
$1.00 ($0.75 off 3 MC)
Ball Park Meat Franks
2 for $3 ($1.00 off 2 MC)
Hunt's Snack Pack Pudding
$1.00 ($1.00 off 3 MC)
FM Microwave Pizza
$1.00
Mars Miniatures Bag Candy
2 for $6
FM Ketchup
$0.85
FM Chips or Dips
2 for $3
FM Pickles
2 for $4
FM Beef Jerky
2 for $5
FM Cups, Plates or Napkins
3 for $5
FM Charcoal Briquets
$4.99
Smooth Away Instant Hair Remover
$7.99
Ped Egg Pro
$7.99
Fusion Gamer, Fusion, Spa Breeze Manual Razors
$7.99
Head & Shoulders Shampoo or Conditioner
$3.99 (BOGOF MC)
Clairol Natural Instincts Hair Color
$5.99 ($1.00 off MC)
Colgate Toothpaste
BOGOF (first 2)
Kroger Omeprazole
$19.99
Suave Professional Hair Care
3 for $5
Soft Soap Liquid Hand Soap or Body Wash
2 for $7
Irish Spring Soap 8pk
2 for $7
Pampers Baby Wipes
2 for $5 ($0.50 off MC)
Edge or Skintimate Shave Gel
2 for $3 after in store MC
Physicians Formula Cosmetics
BOGO Half Off
Northwest Grown Blueberries
$7.88 5 lb Box
Northwest Grown Blueberries
$4.48 2 lbs
Northwest Grown Blueberries
2 for $4 (1 pint)
Organic Grape Tomatoes
2 for $5
Private Selection Organic Salads
2 for $5
English Cucumbers
4 for $5
Hothouse Bell Peppers
4 for $5
Rainier Cherries
$2.98 lb
White Peaches or Nectarines
$1.98 lb
Cantaloupe
$0.49 lb
Nature's Path Cereal, Bars, or Granola
Save 40%
Naturally Preferred Brown or White Eggs
2 for $4
Pacific Foods Non-Dairy Select Soy or Low Fat Rice Beverages
4 for $5
Terra Chips
2 for $6
Schiff Glucosamine
Save 50%
BioKleen
Save 25%
Natrol Supplements
Save 30%
FM Cereal
2 for $4
Pillsbury Cake Mixes
$0.89
Tostitos Tortilla Chips
2 for $5
Dole Fruit Bowls
2 for $4 ($1.00 off 2 MC, $0.75 off 1 MC)
Coke or Dansani 12 pk
2 for $10
Dannon Yogurt Activia, Light & Fit, Danimals
$1.88 ($1.00 off MC)
Gain 2x Liquid or Powder Laundry Detergent
$9.99 ($1.00 off MC home mailer)
Nutra Nuggets Dry Dog Food 40 lb
$21.99
Fresh Northwest Shrimp Meat
$2.99 lb
Wild Jumbo Snow Crab
$3.99 lb
Colossal E-Z Peel White or Jumbo Cooked Prawns
$6.99 lb
Fresh Ground Beef
$1.78 lb (5 lb flavor seal pack)
Fresh Lean Ground Beef
$2.46 lb (3 lb flavor seal pack)
Fresh Lean Ground Beef
$2.66 lb (1 lb flavor seal pack)
Ground Beef Patties 3 lb bag
$6.99
Pork Spare Ribs
$1.99 lb
Muffins 4 pk
$2.99 (bakery)
Kroger Vitamins
BOGOF w/ in ad coupon (limit 4)
Colgate Wisp Mini-Brushes
$1.99 w/ in ad coupon (limit 3) ($0.50 off MC on 4pk)
Gatorade Sports Drink
$0.69 w/ in ad coupon (limit 10)
FM Bagels or Kraft Philadelphia Cream Cheese
10 for $10 w/ in ad coupon (limit 10) ($1.00 off Kraft MC)
Kivu Bulk Coffee
$4.99 lb w/ in ad coupon (limit 4)
Darigold Butter
3 for $5 w/ in ad coupon (limit 6)
FM Deluxe Ice Cream
6 for $10 w/ in ad coupon (limit 6)
Kroger Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs
$5.99 bag w/ in ad coupon (limit 4)
Farmland Sliced Bacon
2 for $5 w/ in ad coupon (limit 4)
Red Vines or Licorice Vines Tubs
$5.49 w/ in ad coupon (limit 2)
All Home clearance is 40% the lowest marked price!
Don't forget to use your reward coupons - you should have already received them! If you have not received them yet, be sure to contact Fred Meyer!
Unfamiliar with Fred Meyer's coupon policy? They allow you stack a Fred Meyer store coupon (FM coupons as I call them) with a manufacturer's coupon. They do not price match to any other store's sale prices, and they won't take other store's sale coupons. You can however use a manufacturer's coupons on any sale or clearance items, but they usually won't allow any overage if the coupon is more than the sale price (sometimes it slips through the cracks, but don't expect it every time). Our local Washington stores do not double any coupons. They do accept the printed internet coupons if they have a barcode (like bricks coupons or from Smart Source or coupons.com if you are unfamiliar with them) so if you are having problems with a clerk not wanting to accept your coupon and you are sure it's legit coupon, please ask to have a manager come on over to verify it.
For more sites listing other stores sales ads and coupon match ups, please visit BeCentsAble - home of the original Grocery Gathering!
17 July 2009
Review: To Go Bowl
Just before she passed on to the Rainbow Bridge, the Pudgy Princess had the chance to review the To Go Bowl.
The To Go Bowl is a splash free pet bowl that fits into your car's middle console cup holder for water while on the go. It also allows for storage of treats or a meal. It has an adjustable ring to ensure that the holder fits snugly into just any size of cup holder, and an easy fit lid so it doesn't spill while driving (especially over speed bumps like we have here in our neighborhood, ugh! I can't tell you how many times the bowl she had from Ikea would spill because of them!)
The To Go Bowl holds about 16-20 ounces of water when placed in the console, making it an ideal travel bowl for small to medium dogs. I probably wouldn't recommend this for dogs over 40 pounds, as it might be too small for them. Corgis like Pudgy or Toby Won Kenobi and below, it should be just the right size for them. Here's a few pictures of the bowl and the pieces with it:
You can also sit the bowl on the ground, which makes it great for use in hotel rooms. If using it flat, you can add up to 32 ounces of water in it.
It's a good idea for those who spend a lot of time in the car with their dog (or cats too, I guess), even if it's just short trips to the store (never leave your pet unattended in the car in hot weather!!!)
The To Go Bowl retails for $19.99, and you can order online, as well as select small pet stores (local peeps, Naturally 4 Paws in Silverdale carries it!)
The To Go Bowl is a splash free pet bowl that fits into your car's middle console cup holder for water while on the go. It also allows for storage of treats or a meal. It has an adjustable ring to ensure that the holder fits snugly into just any size of cup holder, and an easy fit lid so it doesn't spill while driving (especially over speed bumps like we have here in our neighborhood, ugh! I can't tell you how many times the bowl she had from Ikea would spill because of them!)
The To Go Bowl holds about 16-20 ounces of water when placed in the console, making it an ideal travel bowl for small to medium dogs. I probably wouldn't recommend this for dogs over 40 pounds, as it might be too small for them. Corgis like Pudgy or Toby Won Kenobi and below, it should be just the right size for them. Here's a few pictures of the bowl and the pieces with it:
You can also sit the bowl on the ground, which makes it great for use in hotel rooms. If using it flat, you can add up to 32 ounces of water in it.
It's a good idea for those who spend a lot of time in the car with their dog (or cats too, I guess), even if it's just short trips to the store (never leave your pet unattended in the car in hot weather!!!)
The To Go Bowl retails for $19.99, and you can order online, as well as select small pet stores (local peeps, Naturally 4 Paws in Silverdale carries it!)
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