FIVE coupon inserts this Sunday!

By now I'm sure you've heard that you can expect FIVE coupon inserts this Sunday! I get 6 papers, so that will be a total of 30 coupon inserts! Yikes! Better get your scissors ready! If you aren't already getting multiple newspapers delivered to your home, NOW is the time to do it! With so many inserts in the paper, now is the PERFECT opportunity to really grow your coupon stash! Go HERE to read more about why you would want multiple newspapers and how to get them for a SUPER GREAT price! Don't put it off any longer!

Check out all of these great coupons, samples, and FREE offers!

Weekly Menu Plan

WAY behind on this, as usual! And let me tell you...once you've started using a menu plan, and you skip doing it for a while, you will realize how truly important it is! Without a menu plan, my family ate out WAY more than we usually do the last couple of weeks. I know part of that was because of the holidays and all, but a LOT of it had to do with simply not having a PLAN. Without my menu plan and having an idea of what my family would have on a particular week, it was FAR too easy to simply grab burgers at McDonald's or get a Little Ceasar's pizza or whatever. You get the idea. :( So...I REALLY have to stick to this and DO IT every week. It truly does save you so much more money!

*For more on how and why I plan my weekly meals (which saves my family even more money each week), click HERE to read a previous post.

Before I give you my menu plan, I just have to say that the ribs and fajitas recipes I posted about last time (HERE) were FANTASTIC! I cannot WAIT to make them again. They were both SOOOO easy and SOOOO yummy, not to mention CHEAP! So, you really must try them. Seriously.

This week I will be using mostly stock items. I have some meat that I need to start using up a bit, such as some chicken drumsticks and thighs. I also have some petite sirloin steaks...mmm....

:BREAKFASTS:

Cereal w/ milk
Dino-egg oatmeal, toast, Cuties, milk
Toaster Strudel, banana, milk
Egg & cheese tortillas, OJ
Bagel w/ cream cheese and jelly, yogurt, apple juice
French toast, bacon, eggs, OJ
Cottage cheese & fruit, toast, V8 Splash

:LUNCHES:

Soup & sandwiches
Freschetta pizza, salad
PB&J, carrot sticks w/ ranch, Chex mix
Mac-n-cheese, applesauce, mixed veggies
Leftover lasagna (from dinner the previous night)
Pigs in a blanket, fruit cocktail, tater tots
Chef Boyardee cups, cottage cheese

:SNACKS:

Orange slices & graham crackers
Apples w/ peanut butter
Fruit snacks
Cheese stick and Goldfish crackers
Danimals Crushcup
Chex Mix
Granola bar


:DINNERS::

:Philly Cheesesteak sandwiches:

Ingredients:

2 Petite Sirloin steaks (calls for rib-eye steak, but this is what I have on hand. Tastes just as good to me!)
1 medium onion, cut in half then sliced (separated into half rings)
salt
pepper
4 tbsp oil
8 slices provolone cheese (or whatever cheese you like, such as American or even Cheez-whiz)
4 bread rolls

Preparation:

In order to get my steak super thin, I cut them in half lengthwise and simply pound them out with a meat mallet. I pound them until pretty thin, and cut them in half again if they are too big. Set aside.

Heat half of oil over medium high heat in a large skillet. Sauté onions until soft and golden brown. Use tongs to take them out of pan onto a tray/plate. Heat the other half of the oil in the pan. Add steaks and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 1 minute. Turn over and cook for another minute. It won't take long for it to brown since the pieces are so thin, so watch it. You want it to brown on both sides and be just barely starting to crisp. When done, remove from pan to tray/plate with onions.

Cut rolls in half (I like to slightly toast them by placing the open sides of the roll on the pan for a few seconds, but you don't have to). Add meat. Add cheese slices. Add onions. Add any dressings you choose. (I usually just brush a THIN layer of mayo on each side of the roll.) ENJOY! They are really quick and super easy. Oh yeah, they're yummy too! I will serve these with the parmesan potato wedges I told you about HERE.

:Sticky Crockpot Chicken Drumsticks:

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 hours
Ingredients:

* 2 tsp. salt
* 1 Tbsp. paprika
* 2 tsp. chili powder
* 1 tsp. onion powder
* 1 tsp. thyme leaves
* 1 tsp. white pepper
* 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
* 1/2 tsp. black pepper
* 4 lbs. chicken drumsticks, skinned if desired
* 1 chopped onion

Preparation:
In a small bowl, thoroughly combine salt and all the spices. Rinse drumsticks and pat dry with paper towel. Rub the spice mixture into the chicken, skin side and bone side, making sure it is evenly distributed and pressed down deep into the skin. Place in a resealable plastic bag, seal, place in a baking pan to catch any drips, and refrigerate overnight.

Place the onions in the bottom of a 4 quart crockpot and top with the chicken and spices. Cook on LOW for 8-12 hours until very tender. Serves 8-10. I will serve this with rice and au-gratin potatoes. These are SOOOO good. :) 

Stouffer's lasagna with salad and Rhodes warm-n-serve rolls
New Year's Eve snacks
Little Smokies cooked in the crockpot w/ bbq sauce, crescent rolls
Spaghetti, salad, corn, cottage cheese.
Zuppa Toscana (this is a recipe I got from Sarah at AThriftyMom a while ago. I made this for my family a couple of months ago and it was a BIG hit! It tastes JUST LIKE the soup you get at the Olive Garden! It is so yummy, I can't even describe in words. Lol. You MUST try it. Recipe HERE.) Served with bread. I like to make cheese toast by slicing a french bread loaf and buttering one side. Lay the slices, butter side up, on a cookie sheet as many as will fit. Put a generous amount of shredded cheese (I usually use a combination of swiss and parmesan), and sprinkle with oregano. Easy and yummy.

:DESSERTS:

Sara Lee Pie and Breyer's ice cream, of course! :)
Oreos w/ milk
Popcorn
Rootbeer floats

December Totals

Wow, another month gone already! Well, come to mention it, another DECADE gone! Yikes. Well, I managed to meet my budget again this month! Woohoo! I came in just under budget this month. I figure that part of that has to do with having Christmas and all. :)  I also spent a bit on stocking up on diapers (that were priced so great at Walgreen's a couple of weeks ago) so I shouldn't have to buy them again for at least a couple of weeks.

Before I give my breakdown, I like to point out things that ARE and ARE NOT included in my totals.

Things that ARE included in my totals:

*Food (not including dining out)
*Diapers (for two kids)
*Formula (I breast feed, but supplement with formula)
*ALL cleaning supplies (air fresheners, household cleaners, laundry items, etc.)

*Toiletries (hair products, deodorant, feminine products, paper products, etc)
*Make-up/Cosmetics
*Medicine & health related items (non-prescription)
*Office Supplies (including school supplies)

Items NOT included in my totals:
*Any of the above items that are purchased with the sole intent of being a gift
*Clothing
*Dining out
*Prescription Meds
*Toys


For the month of December I budgeted myself $301.00 for the month, which breaks down to $70/week ($70 x 4.3 weeks). $301.00 for a month seems like a lot, but when you break it down by week ($70/week) you realize how little it really is. You also have to remember that on $70/week I support a family of FIVE, including two in diapers and 1 on supplemental formula! Plus that accounts for EVERYTHING I buy to keep my house running, including even MAKEUP!

Alright, so here is my month's breakdown for December:

Week 1:
Total the items SHOULD have cost me: $132.88
Total out-of-pocket (OOP) I actually paid: $60.20
Total saved: $72.68 or 55% (not a GREAT percentage of savings, but still good and I still came in under budget for that week, so I'm not complaining!)

Week 2:
Total the items SHOULD have cost: $150.80
Total OOP: $96.17
Total saved: $55.65 or 37%. My lowest percentage EVER! Lol.

Week 3:
Total the items SHOULD have cost: $212.40
Total OOP: $77.73
Total saved: $134.67 or 63%

Week 4 (plus the extra three days of the month)
Total the items SHOULD have cost: $341.64
Total OOP: $80.97
Total saved: $260.67 or 76%


Month end totals:
Total everything SHOULD have cost me: $837.64
Total I actually paid: $305.07.
I also received $10 back in rebates from the Snow White dvd a couple of months ago.
Adjusted monthly OOP: $295.07
Total saved: $542.57 or 65%!

I came in $5.93 under budget. I also still have $10 in RR to spend like cash at Walgreen's. I also still have a $10 gift check to Rite Aid from the Gift of Savings promo during Thanksgiving.

I also saved $4.57 on gas this month. Not a lot, but I also didn't do a ton of shopping at Albies this month.

For the month of January I am going to budget myself $279.50, which breaks down to $65/week. I hope that it's doable! I'm slowly trying to inch my way down to $50/week. I think that that is an attainable goal as long as I really focus! Wish me luck! :)

Even produce can be much cheaper at Albies!

Another sight that made me chuckle while at Walmart the other day was their display of the 5lb boxes of Cuties:

They are $6.98 at Walmart. Last week they were only $4.99 at Albertson's. So, already they were $1.99 cheaper at Albertson's. Using the $1/1 coupon that was available in the newspaper made them $5.98 at Walmart and $3.99 at Albertson's. Albertson's had double coupons available, so they doubled my coupon value of $1, giving me a total of $2 off. I paid only $2.99 for the 5lb box at Albies. I saved $2.99 by buying them at Albies. I have also heard that Albies has their Cuties 5lb boxes marked down as low as $2.99, so only $1.99 after coupon. If you're there, be sure to check them out!

Aren't store brand items cheaper any way?

Just a couple of days ago I was walking through Walmart and passed their display of Great Value shredded cheese and had to laugh:

I used to pay $1.25 for Great Value brand cheese and though I was getting a good deal?! Just last week I was able to stock up on KRAFT shredded cheese for only $.49/bag after sale and coupon! I bought 6 packages for only $2.94. I would only have gotten 2 packages of the Great Value brand at Walmart for that price! By stocking up, I know I'll make it to the next great sale. I just throw 5 of the bags of cheese in the freezer until we're ready for them. They freeze really well and are just fine after thawing in the refrigerator. :)

For some people it is hard to grasp the idea of purchasing name brand items with coupons, when the store brand item right next to it is STILL cheaper than said name brand item after coupon. Well, on any normal given day if you were to walk into the grocery store to purchase something, yes, that would be the case. Before I started couponing I would frequently find myself with the same notion. I would stand in front of the cereal and notice that even AFTER I used my $.50 off coupon for the Apple Jacks that was priced at $3.25, the Great Value brand sitting next to it was still only $2.50, and therefore still cheaper than the Apple Jacks. So, I'd grab the Great Value brand, throw it in the cart, and be on my way (and we ALL have to admit that the store brand NEVER tastes quite as good as the name brand, but at least it's ok).

BUT, what if you went into the store when the Apple Jacks was on sale for $2.50? Then, use your $1.00 off coupon and now it's only $1.50! Cheaper than the store brand! THEN, what if you had a double coupon (where the store actually matches your manufacturer coupon, doubling your discount) that took off another $1.00, making the cereal only $.50? Pretty great, right? NOW, what if for ever four boxes of cereal you bought, you got a $1 OYNSO to use on a future purchase, essentially making the cereal $.25/box?? By combining coupons, sales, doublers, catalinas, or any combination of deals, you are able to purchase the name brand item for WAY less (in this example, you are saving $1.75 by purchasing the name brand) than the store brand! Of course, by having multiple copies of coupons by getting multiple newspaper subscriptions, you are able to stock up on this cereal while you can get it for $.25 so that you do not have to purchase it again until it is at a price that you are willing to pay. For more about multiple newspaper subscriptions and why you need them, click HERE.

Ok, so you can see from the example that it's not always cheaper to buy the store brand.

Any way, just had to throw this out there. I know it's hard to get your mind around the idea of purchasing name brand items when it would appear that store brand items are always cheaper, even after coupon. You will come to realize that this just isn't the case if you shop smartly.

If you are new to couponing, be sure to go HERE and learn more about how this system works and how you, too, can start saving 60-90% on your grocery bill!

FREE ConAgra Foods coupon booklet!

There is a new $17 coupon booklet available from ConAgra foods! All you have to do is copy and paste this address into your browser (not sure why you can't just click on the link, but it doesn't work that way), and fill out your info to receive your coupon booklet in about 4-6 weeks! As always, I suggest you use your coupon/freebie email address when signing up for offers in order to avoid unwanted spam in your inbox.

http://www.hip2save.com/2009/12/free-17-conagra-coupon-booklet.html

Thanks Hip2Save!

There is also a $25.00 coupon book available by rebate when you purchase $10 in ConAgra brand items! ForTheMommas says:

You will receive a $25.00 worth of savings when you spend $10.00 on ConAgra brand products. Many of these things go on sale on a regular basis to!

Participating Brands Include:
Orville Redenbacher’s®
Crunch ‘n Munch®
Banquet®
Snack Pack®
RO-TEL®
Hunt’s®
Manwich®
Chef Boyardee®
Kid Cuisine®
Peter Pan®

Use this form to claim your rebate. You have until 3/28/10 to submit offer.

Walgreen's - January Coupon Booklet

The new January coupon booklet is out at Walgreen's and the coupons don't expire until 1/30. Remember, all coupons in this booklet are STORE coupons and can be stacked with manufacturer coupons for more savings! These booklets can be found at the front of the store with the weekly ads. Here is a list of the coupons you'll find inside:

$2 Off Walgreens Super Probiotic 30 ct or Fiber and Probiotic 1 B - 120 ct
$1 Off Walgreens Daily Fiber & Probiotic - 28 ct
$5 Off Colonaide - 14 pack
$3 Off Women’s One Multivitamin - 50 ct
$2 Off Walgreens A thru Z Cardio - 60 ct
$3 Off Walgreens A thru Z Select - 220 ct or Multivitamins - 250 ct
$2 Off Walgreens Calcium Soft Chews 60 ct
$3 Off Walgreens Energy Booster 36 ct, One Daily Energy 18 ct, Calcium Creamies 75 ct or Finest Natural Glucosamine Chondroitin 30ct
$3 Off Walgreens Gold Seal D Vitamin 1000 mg 400 ct
$3 Off Posture-D Calcium 600 mg 60 ct
$3 Off NeoCell Super Collagen+C 120 ct
$3 Off Enzymatic Acidophilus Pearls 30 ct
$5 Off Ferro-Sequels 100 ct
$3 Off Slow-Mag 60 ct or Slow-FE 60 or 90 ct
$2 Off Slow-Niacin 500 or 750 mg 100 ct
$3 Off Bifera Iron Supplement 30 ct
$3 Off Blaine MagOx 400 Supplements 60 ct
$3 Off Garlique 60 ct
$3 Off Liverite Liver Aid 90 ct (includes 30 Free)
$20 Off Focus Factor 60 ct
$2 Off Bausch & Lomb Ocuvite or PreserVision Eye Care 50 to 240 ct
$5 Off Remifemin Menopaus Tablets 120 ct
$10 Off Extenze 30 tablets
$5 Off Libido-Max Liquid Gelcaps 75 ct
$2 Off Elations Cranberry Apple 6 ct 8 oz each
$1 Off Tums Dual Action 25 or 50 ct
$3 Off Cardiostat Omega-3 Fish Oil Softcaps 60 ct
$5 Off Ameal bp Capsules 60 ct
$5 Off Whole Body Cleanse Kit
$5 Off Evercleanse 3 Step Detoxifier System
$5 Off Finest Natural Glucosamine Chondroitin 180 or 240 ct
$3 Off Finest Natural Organics 30 or 60 ct
$3 Off Finest Natural Cranberry Chews 30 ct
$1 Off Sustenex 30 ct or Digestive Advantage 32 ct
$2 Off Phazyme 12 ct, Tagamet 30 ct or Gaviscon 100 ct
$4 Off Benefiber: 28 ct Stick Pack, 48 to 62 dose, 100 ct Chewable
$2 Off Gas-X Chewables or Softgels 48 to 72 ct
$1 Off Sea Band Anti-Nausea Ginger Chewing Gum 24 ct
$3 Off Sominex Maximum Strength 16 ct
$3 Off Vivarin Caffeine Alertness Aid 40 ct
$2 Off Chaser Plus 40 ct
$5 Off Sinus Buster Nasal Spray .68 oz
$3 Off Breathe Right Kids Nasal Strips 12 ct
$2 Off Coldcalm 60 ct or Oscillococcinum Natural Flu Relief 6 ct
$1 Off W Vitamin C or Organic Lip Balm .15 oz
$1 Off Chap Aid Original or Cherry Lip Balm 3 pack
$2 Off Genteal Eye Care
$2 Off Similasan Eye or Ear Drops
$5 Off At Home 12 Panel Drug Test
$5 Off Omron Hip Pedometer
$10 Off Walgreens Nicotine Gum 160 or 170 ct, Lozenges 108 ct 2mg or 4mg
$5 Off Walgreens Nicotine Patch 14 ct 7.14 or 21 mg, Gum 100 or 110 pack 2 or 4 mg, Lozenges 72 ct 2 or 4 mg
$.50 Off Walgreens Nutritional Drink 6 ct 8 oz each
$1 Off One Touch Ultra Soft Lancets 100 pack
$30 Off One Touch Ultra 2 Kit
$35 Off One Touch UltraSmart Kit
$15 Off Walgreens Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor
$20 Off Walgreens By Homedics Automatic Wrist or Ultra Deluxe Blood Pressure Monitor
$15 Off Walgreens Manual Inflate Blood Pressure Monitor
$5 Off Spectrum DHA Toddler Liquid 1.8 oz
$1 Off PediaSure 6 ct 8 oz each
$2 Off Humphreys Teething Strips 18 pack or Tablets 135 ct
$1 Off Little Tikes Baby Accessories
$1 Off Hyland’s Teething Tablets 125 ct
$5 Off Walgreens Certainty Underwear 28 to 40 ct
$3 Off RepHresh Pro-B 30 ct or Vaginal Gel 4 pack .18 oz each
$3 Off Schick Quattro Cartridges 8 ct
$3 Off (purchase of 2) Bic Razors Comfort 3 4 pack or Soleil 3 or 4 pack
$10 Off Norelco Razor 7310, 6940LC or HS8420
$1 Off Men’s Zone 6 Blade Razor System or Cartridges 4 pack
$5 Off Wahl Grooming Lithium Ion All In One, Groomsman Trimmer or 14 piece Styling Kit
$2 Off HerbaShine Hair Color
$3 Off L’Oreal Preference or Couleur Experte Hair Color
$5 Off LiceFree! Lice Treatment 2ct 4 oz
$10 Off Rogaine 3 pack 2% for women or 5% for men
$3 Off Revlon Age Defyling Foundation 1 oz or Concealer .04 oz
$3 Off Revlon Cream Gloss .04 oz
$2 Off W Skin Oil Treatment 4.2 oz
$10 Off Aquafresh White Trays 14 pack
$1 Off Diabeti-Derm Foot Rejuvenating Cream 4 oz or Multi-Betic Vitamins 60 ct
$.50 Off Dentemp One Step Filling Mix or Recapit Cement 1 gm
$3 Off Biotene Toothpaste 4.5 oz, Mouthwash 16 oz, Mouth Spray 1.5 oz or Oral Balance Dry Mouth Moisturizer 1.5 oz
$2 Off Rayovac Hearing Aid Battery 10, 13, 312 or 675 8 pack
$1 Off Russsell Stover Chocolate 11.5 or 12 oz
$1 Off (purchase of 2) Life Savers 6.25 to 7.7 oz
$1 Off (purchase of 2) Reese’s or Hershey’s Pieces 10 or 10.5 oz
$1 Off (purchase of 2) Planters Trail Mix 6 oz
$1 Off (purchase of 2) Cadbury, Hershey’s or Kit Kat Chocolate 2.5 to 4.5 oz
$1 Off (purchase of 2) Lindt Lindor Truffles 5.1 oz
$1 Off (purchase of 2) Hershey’s or Reese’s Sugar Free Candy 3 oz
$1 Off (purchase of 2) M&M’s Valentine’s Candy 12.6 oz
$1 Off (purchase of 2) Hershey’s or Reese’s Valentine’s Candy 8 or 8.5 oz
$5 Off Sandisk 4 GB SDHC Card
$2 Off W Photo 35mm Single-Use Camera with Flash 81 exp 3 pack

Walgreen's trip 12/27

There are some great deals at Walgreen's this week! Click HERE to check them out. If you're new to Walgreen's shopping and want to learn more, check out my Walgreen's 101 post HERE.

I bought all of the above items that SHOULD have cost me $151.41, but I only paid $20.10! Plus, I still have a $10 RR to use like cash on a future purchase. I saved $131.31 or 87%! I thought I would be able to get it all for $10.10, but I was unable to roll the Vick's and Pepto RR's like I wanted to, as they are both Proctor & Gamble RR's. I'll explain more about that later on.

I did this in 4 transactions, rolling RR's to lower my out of pocket cost. I also had $22 in RR's from the previous week to help lower my initial cost.

Transaction 1
3 Pepto Bismol 48ct chewables ($4.99/ea)
8 Christmas gift sacs (on clearance for 4/$.48) I bought these because I wanted to use seven $2 RR's from last week and I had to get my coupon:item even. (more info on the coupon:item in my Walgreen's 101 post)

I used 3 $.50/1 Pepto MFQ (there was a $1/1 Pepto Instacool Chewables in the Healthy Savings booklete, but my local Walgreen's doesn't even carry this item, unfortunately. So, I was unable to save an additional $3! I still felt that it was a good deal to get them for $1.16 per box.
Total: $14.43 after coupons
I used seven $2 RR's to bring my total down to $.43 plus tax. After paying, I received a $10 RR for purchasing 3 or more Pepto products.

Transaction 2
Vick's Baby Rub ($4.49)
Vick's Vapo Rub ($4.a9)
3 Vicks DayQuil/NyQuil liquid ($4.99)
1 Puffs tissue ($.89)
4 Christmas gift sacs ($.48)
Christmas ribbon ($.33)

I used 3 $1.50/1 Dayquil/Nyquil, 2-$.55/1 any Vick's, 1-"Buy 2 Vick's products, get free Puffs."
Total after coupons: $19.16. I paid with the $10 RR from the Pepto on the previous transaction, plus 4 more $2 RR's from last week, bringing my OOP down to $1.16. Plus, I got back another $10 for buying $20 in Vick's products (that's before manufacturer coupons).

Transaction 3
2 Honey Nut Cheerios (2/$4)
4 Christmas gift sacs ($.48)
3 Pepto various products ($4.99/ea)

I used 3-$.50/1 any Pepto product, 2-$1/1 Honey Nut Cheerios HERE.
Total after coupons: $15.95. This is where I ran into problems. Since I was able to pay with the Pepto RR for the Vick's and still have an RR print, I assumed it would be the same reversed. It wasn't. When I paid with the $10 RR from the Vick's on this transaction, it did NOT print another RR for the Pepto. Grr. So, I had them void the transaction and we started over. This time I did NOT pay with the $10 RR, and the $10 RR for the Pepto printed. So I did pay $15.95 OOP and then had the $10 RR print and a $2 RR print for the Cheerios (remember, you do not have to buy the milk for the RR to print!). So then I was left with TWO $10 RR's.

Transaction 4
2 - Scrubbing Bubbles shower cleaner starter kits ($13.99/ea)
4 - Shower cleaner refills ($5.29/ea)

The promo is buy one starter kit, get a refill free, so already two of the refills were free (-$10.58). Then I used two "Buy one refill, get one free" IPs HERE to make the other two free. Then I used two $7 off one starter kit IPs HERE. That brought my total after coupons to 14.56. I then paid with one of the $10 RR's and the $2 RR from the previous transaction, making my OOP $2.56 plus tax!

So, total spent out of pocket was $20.10 and I still have a $10 RR left! Not bad!

Print any coupons you want before they're gone!

Don't forget that at the beginning of each month Coupons.com (and many of the other online coupon sites) reset their coupons! That means that some of the coupons you've already printed this month will be available again, but it also means that some of the coupons available right now will not be available anymore. So, if there are any that you want, print them now before they're gone. Then, if you want more and they are still available after the new month starts, you'll be able to print them again! Don't forget that if you print your coupons here from my coupon bar (at the top of the page) you help support this site! :)

Wondering why you should support this site? Well, I have decided that the earnings I get through this site will be used to sponsor giveaways! I am very close to being able to do my first giveaway. It will be small, but I still can't wait and it should be fun! :) So get to printing! ;)

Albertson's 12/27-1/01

There is no new ad starting today for Albertson's. The ad that was in the Sunday paper has deals that are valid through Jan 1st. Then there is technically no ad until Sunday, when a new ad with some more deals will come out. These will be valid until Jan. 5th. Starting next week, on the 6th, we will be back to normal with a new ad that runs Wednesday through Tuesday.  Thanks FabulesslyFrugal for this heads up.

Honestly, there is nothing that will get me heading to Albertson's for now. Hopefully there will be at least a few good things in the Sunday ad. Oh well...time to use up some stock items!

Slowly improving...

As you all know, this is still a relatively new blog and I'm still constantly working on getting it to where I want it to be. Well, I finally added another cool feature...now you can subscribe to my feeds through email! You can enter your email address in the little box at the top of the right side-column and now you will get one daily email with all of my new posts! You'll never miss a deal again. :) So, if you haven't already, go ahead and enter your email address and sign up!

Also, don't forget to become a follower! The box for that is in the left side-column. :) You can also follow me on Twitter (click HERE for more info if you're new to Twitter), and become a fan on Facebook. :) Just a few more ways to guarantee that you never miss a deal!

I know there haven't been too many posts lately, but I'm sure you can understand with the holidays and all. I still have yet to get my house back in order (it's a DISASTER AREA), but hopefully I'll be back up and running within a couple more days. Thanks for the patience and support!

Walgreen's - 12/27-1/02

If you are new to Walgreen's shopping and want to learn the ins and outs, click HERE for my Walgreen's 101 page.
:MONTHLY REGISTER REWARD DEALS:

Buy 2 Bayer Aspirin Chewables/select Icy Hot Products, get $3RR or Buy 3, get $6RR
Use the $1/1 Bayer Aspirin coupon found here: IE or FF
Final cost ?

Buy 1 Dove Milk Chocolate Minis/Dove Promises Chocolate, get $0.50RR; Buy 2, get $1RR

Buy 2 Capri Sun/Chips Ahoy, get $2RR

Buy 2 Curel Anti-itch Defense Lotion 13 oz/Jergens Ultra Healing Lotion 10 oz, get $5RR

Deal Scenario:

Buy 2 Curel lotions
Use the $1/1 Walgreens coupon from the Diabetes And You booklet (will deduct $2)
Use 2 $2/1 coupons from SS 10/11 (expire 12/31!)
Final cost a total of $11 off (after coupons and Register Reward)!

Buy $10 of Progresso soup, get $3RR

Deal Scenario:

Buy 8 Progresso soups (on sale this week 4/$5)
Use 4 $0.50/2 coupons from SS 11/8 or 12/6
Pay $8
Get back a $3RR
Final Cost $0.63 each!

Buy Theraflu and Lipton (tea bags 48ct), get $4RR
Use the $2/1 Theraflu Walgreens coupon from the Healthy Savings Booklet (Exp 12/31!)
Use the $2/1 Theraflu coupon from SS 12/6 or from HERE
Use the $0.50/1 Lipton coupon from the 11/15 RP
Final cost ? (a total of $8.50 off after coupons and Register Rewards!)

Buy 2 Triaminic 2/$10 get $5RR
Use the 2 $2/1 coupon from SS 12/6
Use the $2/1 Walgreens coupon from the Healthy Savings Booklet (Exp 12/31!)
(will deduct $4)
Pay $2
Get back a $5RR
Final Cost FREE + a $3 moneymaker!

:WEEKLY REGISTER REWARD DEALS:

 Buy $20 of select products below get $5RR; Buy $10, get $2.50RR

Downy Liquid or Sheets
Bounce Dryer Bar or Fabric Sheets
Tide Stain Release 10 pack or Liquid
Cascade Dishwasher Detergent

Deal Scenarios:

#1
Buy 6 Tide Stain Release Products $3.99 each=$23.94
Use 6 $1/1 coupons from PG 12/27
Pay $17.94
Get back a $5RR
Final cost $2.16 each!

#2
Buy 2 Tide Stain Release products for $3.99 each=$7.98
Buy 2 Bounce Dryer Bars for $3.99 each=$7.98
Buy 2 Cascade Dishwasher Detergents for $3.99 each=$7.98
Total=$23.94

Use 2 $1/1 Tide product coupons from PG 12/27
Use 2 $0.50/1 Bounce Dryer Bar coupons from PG 12/27
Use 2 $0.50/1 Cascade coupons from PG 12/27
Pay $19.94
Get back a $5RR
Final Cost $2.49 each!
***********************

Glade Plug-in Scented Oil Refill/Sense & Spray Refill 2/$5, get $1RR
Use 2 Buy 1 Scented Oil Refill and Get 1 PlugIn Scented Oil Warmer FREE (up to $3.99 value) coupons found HERE
Use the $1/2 Scented Oil Refill coupon found HERE
Pay $4
Get back a $1RR
Final Cost $3 for 2 scented oil refills AND 2 Scented Oil Warmers–just $0.75 each!

Glade Lasting Impressions Refill 2 pack/Soy Candle 4.5oz. $3.99, get $1RR
Deal Scenario:
Buy 2 soy candles
Use the $1.50/2 coupon from SS 12/6
Pay $2.49
Get back a $1RR
Final Cost $0.75 each!

Gillette Fusion/Venus Embrace Razor System $8.99, get $3RR
Buy 1 Fusion Razor
Use the $4/1 coupon from PG 11/29 (expires 12/31!)
Pay $4.99
Get back a $3RR
Final Cost $1.99!

Colgate 360 Clean Toothbrush/Total Toothpaste $2.99, get $1RR
Deal Scenario:
Buy the Total Toothpaste
Use the $1/1 coupon found HERE
Pay $1.99
Get back a $1RR
Final Cost $0.99!

Buy $30 of participating products = Coupon for FREE Tide 50 oz ($8.99 value)

Tampax
Olay
Always
**See page 10 & 16 of store ad for all qualifying items

Deal Scenarios:

#1
Buy 1 Tampax Tampons 40 count for $5.49
Buy 1 Tampax Pearls 36-40 count at $6.99
Buy 1 Always Maxi-pads 20-48 count for $5.49
Buy 1 Always Pantiliners 72-120 pack for $5.49
Buy 1 Always Infinity 28-36 count at $6.99
(+ you’ll buy all the items listed below that will be FREE after the coupons)

Use the Buy 1 Always Pantiliner 68-120 count and Get 1 Always pantiliner 34-60 count FREE coupon from PG 12/27
Use 2 Buy 1 Tampax 36-60 count and Get 1 Tampax 18-20 count FREE coupons from PG 12/27
Use the Buy 1 Always Infinity 28-36 count and Get 1 Always Infinity 14-18 count FREE coupon from PG 12/27
Use the Buy 1 Always Pads 24-54 count and Get 1 Pads 12-22 count FREE coupon from PG 12/27
Final Cost $30.45 + you’ll get back a coupon for FREE Tide 50 oz. (valued at $8.99) + you’ll score an additional 2 FREE Tampax, 1 FREE pantiliners, 1 FREE Always Infinity, and 1 FREE Always pads!!

#2:
Buy 2 Pantene Shampoo or Conditioner 25 oz. priced at $5.99 each=$11.98
Buy 3 Gillette Deodorants priced at $3.99 each=$11.97
Buy 3 Gillette Body Wash priced at 3/$10
Total=$33.95
Use the $3/2 Pantene products coupon from PG 12/27
Use 3 $1/1 Gillette deodorant coupons from PG 11/29 or 12/27
Use 3 Buy 1 Gillette deodorant and Get 1 Gillette body wash FREE coupons from PG 11/1 (expires 12/31!!)
Pay $17.95 + get back a coupon for FREE Tide 50 oz. valued at $8.99!
***********************************************************************

E.P.T. 2 pack Pregnancy Test $11.99, get $2RR
Use the $5/1 coupon found here: IE or FF
Pay $6.99
Get back a $2RR
Final Cost $4.99–just $2.50 per test!

Buy 3 Pepto Bismol products, get $10RR

Deal Scenario:
Buy 3 Pepto Bismol InstaCool Chewables priced at $4.99 each=$14.97
Use the $1/1 Walgreens coupon from the Healthy Savings Booklet-exp 12/31!!!
(will deduct $3)
Use 3 $0.50/1 coupons from PG 11/29 (expires 12/31!) or 12/27
Pay $10.47
Get back a $10RR
Final Cost $0.47 for all 3!

Pampers Jumbo Pack Diapers or Training Pants 2/$20, get $3.50RR
Use 2 $2/1 coupons from PG 11/29 (expires 12/31!) or 12/27
Pay $16
Get back a $3.50RR
Final Cost $6.25 each!

Buy $20 of participating products (Vicks, Nyquil, Dayquil), get $10RR; Buy $15, get $5RR

Deal Scenario:
Buy 2 Vicks Babyrub or Vaporub for $4.49 each=$8.98
Buy 3 of Dayquil and/or Nyquil products for $4.99 each=$14.97
Total=$23.95
Use 2 $0.55/1 Vicks coupons from PG 11/29 (expires 12/31!)
Use the Buy 2 Vicks products and Get 1 Puffs FREE coupon from PG 12/27
Use 3 $1.50/1 Nyquil or Dayquil from PG 11/29 (expires 12/31!) or 12/27
Pay $18.35
Get back a $10RR
Final Cost $1.67 each + FREE Puffs Tissue!
*******************************************

Buy 2 Cereal products (Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Fiber One, Honey Nut Cheerios) and 1 Gallon Milk, get $2RR (Collin states that in her “experience, you do NOT need to buy the gallon of milk and the Register Reward will still print. If that’s the case, then you’ll be able to score some FREE cereal with the scenarios below!”)

Deal Scenarios:

#1
Buy 2 boxes of Cinnamon Toast Crunch priced at 2/$4
Use 2 $1/1 coupons found here IE or FF
Pay $2
Get back a $2RR
Final cost 2 boxes of FREE cereal!

#2
Buy 2 boxes of Honey Nut Cheerios priced at 2/$4
Use 2 $1/1 coupons from HERE
Pay $2
Get back a $2 Register Reward
Final cost 2 boxes of FREE cereal!
**********************************

Buy 3 12 Pack Soda (Dr. Pepper, Sunkist, 7-UP, A&W, Canada Dry, Hawaiian Punch) 3/$12, get $4RR

Deal Scenario:
Buy 3 12 packs of Sunkist soda=$12
Use 3 $1/1 coupons from the 11/8 SS or 11/15 SS (expire 12/31!)
Pay $9
Get back a $4RR
Final Cost $1.67 per 12 pack!

:OTHER WEEKLY DEALS:

Revlon Foundation, Concealer, Powder, Eye or Blush Cosmetics– Buy 1 Get 1 Free
Use 2 $2/1 coupons from SS 12/13
Final Cost ?

Almay Cosmetics– Buy 1 Get 1 Free
Use 2 $1/1 coupons found HERE (manufacturer coupon with Target logo)
Final Cost ?

Sally Hansen Treatment, Complete Salon, Pens and LaCross Implements– Buy 1 Get 1 Free
Deal Scenario:
Buy 2 LaCross Implements
Use the Buy 1 Get 1 Free coupon from the December All You Magazine
Final Cost 2 for FREE!

Valentine’s Hershey Kisses or Miniatures 2/$5
Use the $1/2 in-ad coupon
Use 2 $0.50/1 coupons found here (manufacturer coupon with Target logo)
Final Cost $1.50 each!

Campbell’s Chunky Soup 2/$3 with in-ad coupon

Deal Scenario:
Buy 3 cans of Chunky soup
Use the in-ad coupon (this will make each soup $1.50)
Use the $1.50/3 coupon found HERE.
Final Cost $1 each!

Chex Mix 5.5-7.5 oz 3/$3
Use the $0.50/1 coupon found HERE, HERE, or HERE
Final Cost $0.50 each!

Orville Redenbacher’s Poppycock 8 oz. $1.99
Use the $0.75/1 coupon from SS 11/15 (expires 12/31!)
FInal Cost $1.24!

Breyer’s Ice Cream 48 oz. $2.99
Use the $0.75/1 coupon from RP 10/18 (expires 12/31!)
Final Cost $2.24!

Kraft Wacky Mac $1
Buy 2 Wacky Macs
Use the $1/2 coupon from SS 5/10 (expires 12/31!)
Final Cost $0.50 each!

Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower Cleaner $13.99 + FREE Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower Cleaner Refill!!

Deal Scenario:
Buy the Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower Cleaner $13.99
Buy 2 Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower Cleaner Refills
Use the $7/1 coupon found HERE.
Use the Buy 1 Get 1 Free Shower Cleaner Refill coupon found HERE (this will make the both free since you are already getting one free with the in-store promotion)
Pay $6.99
Submit for $5 SC Johnson rebate from HERE(for purchasing 3 SC Johnson products)
Final Cost ONLY $1.99 for all 3 items!

Gillette Fusion Hydra Shave Gel 7 oz. $2.99
Use the $1.50/1 coupon from PG 12/27 (value may be lower depending upon your region)
Final Cost $1.49!

Suave Hair Care $1
Use the $0.50/1 coupon from RP 12/13
Final cost $0.50!

Garnier Nutrisse Hair Color $4.99 with in-ad coupon
Use the $2/1 coupon from RP 12/6
Final Cost $2.99!

Stayfree Maxipads 16-24 count $1.99
Use the $1/1 coupon found HERE (must register first)
Final Cost $0.99!

Sudafed PE 18-24 count $3.99 with in-ad coupon
Use the $2/1 coupon from RP 12/6
Final Cost $1.99!

Thanks Hip2Save for all of these great match-ups!

Another doubler idea...

Just had to quickly tell you that at my Albertson's (12th & Greenhurst) they have the Nesquik flavored milk singles 10 for $10 (remember, you don't have to buy 10 to get the price, they will ring up as $1). There is a $.50/1 Q from a previous insert, so pair that with a doubler and you have FREE flavored milk! My family LOVES these! Not sure if this is the price at all Albies, but worth checking if you have more doublers to use.

Happy Holidays to all!

I'm done with the blog for a few days, as I have about a million and one things to do to finish preparing for Christmas, but just wanted to take a minute to say Merry Christmas! I hope you all have a wonderful holiday with loved ones and that Santa brings you exactly what you wished for. :) I'll be back in a few days!

Oh, and in the meantime, just wanted to remind everyone that the $5 Hallmark printable coupon (or the same coupon can be found in various Dec. issues of magazines, such as Real Simple) expires on Thursday, so if you haven't used it yet, you need to head there! I had two coupons from magazines and two printables. I used each one to purchase two rolls of wrapping paper (which are buy one at $4.99, get one for $.99) so after my $5 off, each set of two cost me only $.98 or $.49/ea! So I paid $3.92 for EIGHT rolls of good quality Hallmark wrapping paper. :) Pretty awesome if you ask me! Once you print the above coupon, don't forget to hit your browser's back button three times to print a second time.

Amazon--Radio Flyer Soft Rock and Bounce Pony, only $49.99!

Wow! What a great deal! You can get the Radio Flyer Soft Rock and Bounce Pony for only $49.99! Even on the Walmart website, this is $94.99! That's a savings of 47%! Plus you can get it shipped to your home in time for Christmas for FREE!

If you want to receive your orders in time for Christmas, then today is the last full day to order from Amazon using Amazon Prime FREE 2-day shipping! YOU can get FREE 2-day shipping too...right now! Just go HERE for more info. It's quick, easy, and FREE!

Amazon--Twister game, only $4.99!

Twister


I used to LOVE this game! My fondest memories of this game is when me and my neices and nephews (who were the same age as me, mind you) played while we were up at my father's cabin near the lake. We would play it upstairs in the loft and have a blast. Ah...those were the days. Well, now you can get this game for only $4.99 on Amazon!

If you want to receive your orders in time for Christmas, then today is the last full day to order from Amazon using Amazon Prime FREE 2-day shipping! YOU can get FREE 2-day shipping too...right now! Just go HERE for more info. It's quick, easy, and FREE!

Amazon deals on Fischer Price Little People toys!

Does your child love Little People? Then you know how expensive these little toys are! Thanks to Amazon, here are a couple of deals for you...



Amazon has the Lil' Movers Vehicles - Tow 'N Pull Tractor™for only $5.99! That's 67% off the regular price of $17.99!

They also have the Little People Spin 'n Fly Airplane for only $7.99, marked down from $19.99! That's 60% off! My son had this toy and absolutely loved it. (So did his big brother who was 6. Lol)

They also have the Little People Rumblin Rocks Dump Truck for only $6.99, marked down from the regular $17.99, so 60% off!

Also, you can get the Little People Open and Close SUV for only $6.99, down from $17.99!

If you want to receive your orders in time for Christmas, then today is the last full day to order from Amazon using Amazon Prime FREE 2-day shipping! YOU can get FREE 2-day shipping too...right now! Just go HERE for more info. It's quick, easy, and FREE!

Amazon--Littlest Pet Shop Daycare Playset, only $9.99!

Amazon has the Littlest pet Shop Daycare Playset only $9.99! Regularly $26.99, you save 63%!

If you want to receive your orders in time for Christmas, then today is the last full day to order from Amazon using Amazon Prime FREE 2-day shipping! YOU can get FREE 2-day shipping too...right now! Just go HERE for more info. It's quick, easy, and FREE!

Amazon--Toy Story Buzz Lightyear Wing Pack

Amazon has the Toy Story Basic Buzz Wing Pack for only $9.99! That's 67% off the regular price of $29.99!

If you want to receive your orders in time for Christmas, then today is the last full day to order from Amazon using Amazon Prime FREE 2-day shipping! YOU can get FREE 2-day shipping too...right now! Just go HERE for more info. It's quick, easy, and FREE!

Amazon--String World activity set, only $9.99!

Amazon has the String World Activity Set for only $9.99! This is 71% off the list price of $34.99!!

"With the String World Activity Set, kids between five and 12 years old can create unique string artwork and jewelry that will surprise friends and impress adults. Kids use the special glue filled pens to trace pattern overlays on a large, plastic workstation. As kids trace, the pen dispenses colorful string that hardens into place with the help of the glue. Once the glue dries, kids can wear and display their colorful string creations."

If you want to receive your orders in time for Christmas, then today is the last full day to order from Amazon using Amazon Prime FREE 2-day shipping! YOU can get FREE 2-day shipping too...right now! Just go HERE for more info. It's quick, easy, and FREE!

Amazon--Twilight Board Game, only $3.99!!

Here's a great Amazon deal for those Twilight fans on your list!



You can get the Twilight Board Game for only $3.99!! And not pay a dime of shipping with Amazon Prime! Isn't that awesome? You will get it in time for Christmas with NO worries!

If you want to receive your orders in time for Christmas, then today is the last full day to order from Amazon using Amazon Prime FREE 2-day shipping! YOU can get FREE 2-day shipping too...right now! Just go HERE for more info. It's quick, easy, and FREE!

Last full day to order from Amazon with FREE Prime 2-day shipping!

If you want to receive your orders in time for Christmas, then today is the last full day to order from Amazon using Amazon Prime FREE 2-day shipping! YOU can get FREE 2-day shipping too...right now! Just go HERE for more info. It's quick, easy, and FREE! This has totally come in handy for me this year! I have ordered quite a few items that I recieved on my doorstep in one to two days and not paid a dime for shipping. Not only that, but I'm able to score AMAZING deals on Amazon also! Alright, so if you haven't already head on over HERE to learn how to sign up for FREE 2-day shipping on all of your orders.

Now, I'm going to work on posting some of the best deals I find on Amazon today, so that you can cross any last minute gifts off your list! A lot of their toys are marked down over 70%!! Get ready for some great deals!

FREE wrapping paper and basket filler!

I have posted this previously, but with Christmas right around the corner, I thought I should post about it again. If you are a couponer, then hopefully you are getting a multiple newspaper subscription, right?? Well, hopefully you also save your comics each week! If you do, then you are in for some super cheap wrapping paper and basket filler! Both of these are actually courtesy of my husband! Yep, they were totally his idea and I LOVE them!

The first idea is simply to use the comics as wrapping paper! This is great for kids and adults alike! It is fun, festive, and FREE! You can even dress it up a bit with some ribbon and a cute tag to make it look a little better. Here is one of the gifts I wrapped for this year...

Also, as I'm sure is the case with many of you, I have decided to make gift baskets for almost everyone this year, filled with lots of goodies that I have gotten free or super cheap over the last few months since couponing. As I am sitting and making my baskets today, I needed some filler for all of those baskets. Now, granted, you can find relatively inexpensive paper shreds or basket filler at the dollar store or at some craft stores, but what about FREE filler? I am all for it! All you have to do is send your comic sheets through the shredder! I then take them and use it to fill my gift baskets! It's colorful, looks great, and is, again, FREE!

Now, I know my particular basket is not that beautiful...I am NOT crafty at all when it comes to wrapping and packaging stuff, but I'm sure you could make it look even better. :)

Just thought I'd pass this along in case anyone needed some cheap...er...FREE wrapping paper and basket filler!

In today's Idaho Statesman...

It's a holiday weekend, so you will find NO inserts in your Sunday paper today...which really is ok by me, as if I don't have ENOUGH to do with Christmas already! I am behind a week any way, and haven't cut and filed last weekend's THREE inserts. Ugh. Lol.

So, today you WILL find THREE Albertson's "Twice the Value" coupons, just as Fabulessly Frugal told us. For some doublers matchups this week, click HERE!

There is also a coupon in Parade Magazine for "Buy any one 6oz. Craisins, get one 100 calorie-six ct. pack Craisins free."
A few other coupons to mention are the great Michael's coupons! One is for an extra 15% off your entire purchase (sale items INCLUDED)! This coupon is only valid TODAY (12/20) from 4pm-10pm. Combine this with their Christmas blow-out items and you can probably score some super fab deals!

There are also coupons for 50% off any one regular priced item valid today (12/20) through Tuesday (12/22) and a separate 50% off any one regular priced item valid Wednesday (12/23) and Thursday (12/24).

Fred Meyer has some bonus coupons on page A18, including an extra 10% off (includes toys, housewares, home decor, bedding, bath, and so much more. Just check coupon for details), 15% off video game accessories, and an extra 15% off apparel, shoes, & accessories for men, women, and children. These are 5-day coupons valid until 12/24.

If you like Famous Footwear, there is a great coupon for $20 off $100. You can use this in ADDITION to the Buy one, get the second pair for 1/2 price. PLUS, they have a lot of footwear that is already discounted 50%! If you're in need of shoes, I bet you can combine all of these discounts and score some great deals!

Cost Plus World Market also has some coupons in their ad for $5 off $20 or more and $15 off $50 or more.