Shutterfly - Photo Cards and Gifts

As many of you know I am a part-time photographer (amongst everything else) who enjoys taking pictures of my two girls and sharing the pictures with family and friends. Every year I try to find new and different cards or gifts to send to friends and family for Christmas. I love creating photo cards with pictures of the girls and Shutterfly has such an extensive card collection that I can never go wrong with their designs. So when I found out about Shutterfly giving 50 free photo cards I knew I had to sign up. I have used their 4x8 photo cards in the past for every Christmas card and for the baby’s birth announcements. I just love their quality and selection and can’t wait to choose this year’s Christmas cards. So make sure you check out their cards for every occasion at http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery or even their photo gift which are excellent gifts for family and friends (http://www.shutterfly.com/photo-gifts). I’m looking at the mouse pad myself for Dan but don’t tell him! It’s supposed to be a surprise from the girls.

Target Samples

Target is now offering free samples on their website. They will offer different samples at different times and once you enter in your information for one product it will remember it for the other products on the page. You simply have to fill out a 1-3 question survey and in 4-8 weeks you get a free samples. You can also click on the link to get their coupons.

Marcal Toilet Paper

So I tried a new deal that I sort of knew about but until I talked to another SlickDealer (in person!) I never took it to this extreme.

We receive coupons every now and then for "FREE Marcal single TP, PT or facial tissue" OR $1 larger packs. So I stocked up on these coupons by doing exchanges with other coupon cutters and bought some on eBay for $0.10 a coupon. I had a total of 143 coupons!

So I know have 143 rolls of TP stacked up (pictures soon) until the next round of these coupons come out.

Get Beauty and the Beast DVD/Blue Ray for $2.99

Coupon is good for US and Canada but prices may be US only.

1. Go to Disney Movie Rewards and create an account if you don't have one
2. Click on Promotions and then Special Offers. Find the one for Beauty and the Beast
3. Print out $10 coupon (can print twice per account) - Expires 10-12-2010
4. Go to Toys R Us and get the following and go to register:

• Beauty and the Beast. Marked as $29.99 but on sale this week for $22.99
• Card to PRE-ORDER Toy Story 3 - Pay $5

5. Computer Transaction looks like this:

• B&TB at $29.99 reduce to $22.99 for the sale.
• Because you are pre-ordering Toy Story 3 you get another $10 off automatically. So now it's $12.99 for B&TB.
• Give $10 coupon from Disney
• Price is now $2.99 plus the $5 pre-order for TS3
• Total is $7.99

To make it even better you can do this rebate BUT it may not work in Canada AND you have to purchase the DVD and the soup in the same state you live in (fine print). Campbell Kitchen Rebate

So total would be $2.99 paid for B&TB = get $5 back from rebate = you MADE $2.01.
And you have $5 towards TS3 for November!

Let me know if you have any questions. It took me 3 days to fully understand everyone on the SlickDeals thread...and then I finally understood what they meant today when I went and tried it!

Target - Cheap Bread

So in my quick trips at lunchtime I don't have a lot of time to search Target for new clearance or temporary price cuts (TPC) and match up with qs. Nor am I able to search for every deal I read about online...which is why I am there most workdays at lunch time. Takes me that long to find everything!

Today I was excited to discover that our Target has the Market Pantry "Demi French Loaf" bread for $1.15 and the full size French Loaf for $1.65 in our "expanded grocery" section. We are not a Super Target.

Pair this with the $1 TQ online and that's $0.15 for bread or $0.65 for the bigger one (which is 2.5x the size).

Not a bad deal!

There is also a $0.50 TQ for sandwich bread. This used to be a slick deal on their $0.85 loaf of sandwhich bread but they have raised the prices to $1.39 AND not changed the signage. So please be aware that you should scan ALL items to make sure they aren't trying to change things on you.

Can't find the TQs online? Email me!

Target Coupon Booklet

Received "Cart Away Great Deals" Coupon book from Target today. All expire 10-18-2010 and are for ONE item (unless noted) and all say "excludes trial size".

• $2 Pampers Diapers or Trainers 48ct+
• $1 Dreft
• $3 Boost Kids Essentials 6pk 8.25oz
• $1 Infants Mylicon
• $1 Hanes Apparel (mens/womens/kids)
• $1/3 Greeting Cards
• $1 Tide Stain Release or Laundry Detergent
• $1 Crest Toothpaste
• $0.50 Kleenex tissue 4pk+
• $1 Irish Spring or Softsoap Body Wash (or $1/2 hand soaps)
• $1/2 Pantene Hair Care
• $1 Post Cereal 13-32oz
• $1/2 Oscar Mayer Deli Fresh
• $1 OS Deli Creations
• $1/2 OS Lunchables
• $1/2 Tostitos Chips 9oz+
• $0.50/2 Orbit gum 14ct
• $1/2 Kraft Singles 8oz+
• $0.50 Ziploc Food Storage (shows bags but maybe containers as well?)
• $2.50 AcneFree Skin Care
• $0.75 Bounce or Downey
• $1.50 All or Surf Laundry
• $1 Schick disposable razors 3ct+
• $1.50 Method cleaning item
• $0.75 Gaterade 8pk 20oz
• $1 Kelloggs Special K Bars
• $1 Morningstar frozen food item
• $1 Uncle Bens Long Grain & Wild Rice 6oz+

Target - my run today

Bought the following at Target today and spent $20.xx but learned I could have saved another $4 if I had known about another $4 in coupons.

• 4 toothbrushes
• 2 pk 1# steaks
• 2 pk 1# porkchops 
• 1 green pepper 
• 2 jars of salsa
• 2 women's shirts
• 1 baby jacket

Only thing I paid full price on was the baby jacket...on sale for $3.

Target - Ripping Off Consumers

These articles explain it better then I can:
http://wcco.com/consumer/target.coupon.problems.2.1877267.html

Follow-up to article:
http://wcco.com/local/target.still.shortchanging.2.1879428.html

Target Deals - what I got for $57.50

So I've been shopping mostly Target lately...because they accept both a MQ and TQ for the same item (Manufacturer coupon and Target coupon). They are currently changing their computer systems (please read other post about their scam) so I'm not sure how much longer they will be allowing both qs. However, in the last 18 days this is what I have bought:

2 Dora DVD -- $2 ea
1 Whole Mushrooms -- $.49 ea
2 Celery -- $0.49 ea
5 Bread -- $0.35 ea
1 Lettuce -- $0.99 ea
2 Dole Lettuce bags -- $0.39 ea
2 Strawberries 1lb -- $0.20 ea
3 Green grapes 2lb -- $0.98 ea
2 Carrots -- $0 ea
2 Kid Cuisine -- $0.75 ea
5 Juicy Juice 8pk -- $0.50 ea
3 Market Pantry 50pk Fruit Snacks -- $0 ea
10 Nature Valley Bars -- $0.89 ea
24 Chef Boyardee -- $0 ea
2 Campbell Soups -- $0
1 Bagel Bites -- $0.24 ea
8 Bandaids -- $0.19 ea
11 Colgate toothbrush -- $0.02 ea
12 Bic 10pk pens -- $0 ea
2 Bic 8pk pencils -- $0.20 ea
2 Papermate 10pk pens -- $0.50 ea
2 Mens Shirt -- $0.58 ea
2 Mens Shirt -- $1.98 ea
1 Womens 2pk tshirts -- $0.58 ea
1 Womens Shirt -- $3 ea
1 Womens 4pk socks -- $0.99 ea
1 Flip Flops -- $0.24
1 Mens Sneakers -- $2.48
3 Air Wick Motion -- $1.48 ea
1 Glade Motion -- $1.12 ea
2 Glade Candles -- $1.48 ea
2 PUR filter pitchers -- $3.98 ea

Grand Total for all trips was $57.50

Walgreens "How To"

I was reading SlickDeals one day and came across this "How To" Manual someone created for Wags. Thought I'd share it since it is everything I know about Wags...and how to get the most for your money.

Please Read Here.

Bargain Hunting - The 411

The first rule is you can't do it all. Pick a few areas that you are most interested in and work those deals. So if you want to cut your grocery costs work on those deals and less on the "home goods" area...or vice versa. I like to rotate...so I'll work solely on groceries (particularly Shaws, for their double coupons, or Market Basket, for their low prices) and then switch. Right now I am doing items for the home...so the toys for Christmas deal, toothpaste, bandaids, etc.

The second rule is really just have fun. Once you start Bargain Hunting you will become addicted and soon find that you REFUSE to pay full price for things...and will often wait something out until it goes on sale.

Coupons Broken Down:

Next you can check the store's website to see if they have store coupons that can only be used in the store and "stacked" on top of that $1/1 coupon from the paper. Shaws and Target do this.

Next you buy the product:

- $1/1 coupon from paper (called MQ of Manufacturer Coupon)
- $0.50/1 coupon from the store
= $0.49 Out of Pocket (oop)

It's that simple.


Most people will say "I don't have time to do this" and I honestly can say "Neither do I" but we decided as a family that saving money in this economy was important so I spend time each night researching and reading posts to find ways to save some money. By doing this I have been able to not buy any toothbrushes or body soap in 3 years...and I still have another 3 years worth of supplies left. Now if I find a really good deal with little OOP I will buy more to add to my stock...but right now I am living off what I collected for 2 years.

My Deals Lately

Some of the items were:

Lands End: Womens long sleeve, short sleeve tees and tanks at 4.99 with free shipping

From SlickDeals

Women's Regular Long Sleeve Solid 1x1 Rib Deep V-neck Layering T-shirt 4.99, Womens V Neck Top $4.99, Layering Scoop Tee $4.99, Low scoop tee $4.99, Shirred Scoop Tank $4.99, Shadow Stripe Scoop Layering Tank Top 4.99,

http://www.landsend.com/pp/LongSl...igin=indexhttp://www.landsend.com/pp/LongSleeveSolid1x1RibDeepVneckLayeringTee~193421_59.html?bcc=y&action=order_more&sku_0=::CSH&CM_MERCH=IDX_00002__0000001972&origin=index

Free shipping code: BTSAFF2 pin: 8180 expires 9/7/10

Train Depot Playset 50% off Amazon.com

From SlickDeals

ZipBin Softie Train Depot Playset

$12.99 eligible for FSSS and Prime

Comes with track and 3 train cars. Nice travel pack for visits to other people's houses or to grandma's house.

http://www.amazon.com/ZipBin-Softie-Train-Depot-Playset/dp/B000W9KBWQ/ref=sr_1_1?tag=slickdeals&ie=UTF8&s=toys-and-games&qid=1280961452&sr=8-1&prv=slickdeals&cur=forums&ses=

Description:
* Features durable, wipe-clean surfaces, heavy-duty zippers and a form that collapses flat for storage
* Soft-sided set opens up to reveal a world of possibilities
* Portable roundhouse opens to become a small village surrounded by train tracks
* Measures 10.5" x 9" x 9.5"

** Today Only (8/4/10)** 1 Year PARENTS Magazine for $3.73

From SlickDeals

** Today Only (8/4/10)** 1 Year PARENTS Magazine for $3.73
TODAY ONLY!

• Great deal on Parents mag for 1 year!
• Hopefully the mag will continue with the monthly 20% off Amazon coupon!!
• Go to: http://www.bestdealmagazines.com
• It will be listed on front page as Deal of the Day (for $4.39)
• Use code at checkout: PXCJ88
• Will take the 1 year subscription to $3.73

JC Penney $10 off $10, may be used on Clearance. Free shipping on all Shoes today only.

From SlickDeals

JC Penney offers $10 off $10 when you enter code TEN2YOU at checkout. The coupon may be used on Clearance items as well as regularly-priced items. All Shoes qualify for free shipping. If you are not purchasing shoes, shipping starts at $4.50 (ship to store) or $5.95 (ship to home).

Lego Duplo Tanker Truck was 24.99, now 5.98

From SlickDeals

Lego Duplo Tanker Truck was 24.99, now 5.98 at shop.lego.com
Lego Duplo Tanker Truck - Item #: 5605
Ages: 2-5
Pieces: 17

Shipping starts at $4.98

Fuel up with the Tanker Truck!

From fire engines to airplanes, every vehicle in LEGO® Ville needs fuel to go! Help the busy driver fill them up with the Tanker Truck. Push the button to hear the gas flowing through the hose! LEGO DUPLO® pieces are colorful, safe and sturdy for younger hands.

Craftsman 10 pc. Air Tool Set: $49.99

From SlickDeals

Craftsman 10 pc. Air Tool Set: $49.99

Product Description

10 pc. kit includes 3/8 in. ratchet wrench, 1/2 in. impact wrench, air hammer and 3/8 in. 25 ft. air hose - plus accessories.

Ratchet wrench features:

# 160 RPM free speed
# 45 ft./lbs. of torque
# 1-1/8 in. ratchet head lets users get into tight places
# Front end exhaust directs air away from user

Impact wrench features:

# 1300 impacts per minute/7000 RPM free speed
# 230 ft./lbs. torque
# Built-in power regulator
# Pin type clutch and ring type socket

Air hammer features:

# Uses standard .401 shank chisels
# Alloy treated barrel and heat treated piston for smooth, fluid motion, longer life

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00916852000P?sid=I0084400010000100383&aff=Y

$5 off $50 or more
Online: Use Sears Coupon Code SEARS5OFF50
In-store: In-store Printable Sears Coupon [Exp. 08/07]
10% off parts at searspartsdirect.com with coupon code 70062 or PARTS or 90055 or 90065

Ruby Tuesday Deal

From SlickDeals

Ruby Tuesday B1G1 Free entree max value $10.

Then click on the "SO CONNECTED" icon near the top of the page.
After a very very brief questionaire, put in your email address.
And withing 15 mins you will get a B1G1 Free coupon for free entree max $10.00 - via email, to your email that you registered above.

June Recipes

Here are a few recipes we are considering for the Once A Month Meals. Just double or triple the recipes as desired for larger quantities.

Molasses-Glazed Chicken
Grilled Chicken Pesto Wraps With Sun Dried Tomato
Pineapple Muffins
Baked Pasta with Butternut Squash and Ricotta
Chicken Fajitas
Chicken Fried Rice
Easy Taco Bake
Baked Penne with Sausage
Mexican Cornbread Casserole

Walgreens 6/20 - 6/26

$7.49 RR wyb B&L Renu Sensitive Contact Solution 12oz 7.49 (7.50 RR ) (in aqua, lite blue colored box)
**FYI - the "Fresh" variant (in dark blue color) is not on sale and will NOT kick back RR
$2 Renu "Sensitive" multi-purpose solution 12 oz. size only SS 06-06-10 Exp 9/6
Renu Solution, 12 oz.+ $1 (6-30-10) SS 3/7/10
$2 Renu Sensitive solution 12 oz or larger (7/31/10) Safeway "June" booklet
$2.00 off Renu print

4.49 RR wyb Gillette & Old Spice Body Washes 4.49 ( 4.50 RR )
Gillette Body Wash Free up to $4.99 wyb Gillette Antiperspirant/Deodorant (6/30/10) V 5/16/10
Gillette Body Wash Free wyb Gillette Deodorant (7/31/10) P & G 6/6/10
Gillette Body Wash, B1G1F (7/31/10) P & G 6/6/10
Old Spice Body Wash B1G1F (6/30/10) V 4/18/10
Old Spice Body Wash Free wyb Old spice Body Wash or Fresh Collection Anti-Perspirant (7/31/10) P & G 6/6/10
Old Spice Body Wash Free wyb Old Spice Body Wash or Fresh Collection Anti-Perspirant/Deo (6/30/10) P & G 5/2/10
Old Spice Fresh Collection Anti-Perspirant Free wyb Old Spice Body Wash or F C Anti-Perspirant (7/31/10) P & G 6/6/10
Old Spice Fresh Collection Deodorant Free wyb Old Spice Body Wash or Fresh Collection Deodorant (6/30/10) P & G 5/2/10

$5 RR wyb Gillette Fusion Proglide Razors (Power & Manual) 9.89
$4 Gillette Fusion Proglide Razors P&G 6/6

From SlickDeals

Need recipes?

Check out Supercook which lets you search by the ingredients in your house for recipes. No need to buy more ingredients...use what you've got!

www.supercook.com

Deal of the Day (6/19)

I had a Hannaford coupon for $1 off any beef and $2 off any Hannaford product. So I bought a $1.97 box of animal crackers and a $1.90 piece of beef. Paid $0.87 for both!

CVS 6/20-6/26

$2 ECB wyb Colgate Total Advanced or
Enamel Strength toothpaste 4oz $2.99 Limit 2
Colgate Total Advanced Whitening, Enamel Strength, Adv. Clean or Adv. Fresh Toothpaste, 4oz+ - $1.00 off any 1 (x6/26) SS 6/6
$1 CVS any Colgate Total toothpaste 4oz print exp 6/26/10

$5 ECB Gillette Fusion ProGlide razor $9.97 Limit 1
$4 Gillette Fusion ProGlide razor P&G 6/6 exp 7/31

$2 ECB wyb Pantene Pro-V Shampooo, Conditioner or styler 2/$6.97 Limit 1
Pantene $1 on 2 (7/31/10) P & G 6/6/10

$10 ECB wyb Huggies Snug & Dry or Little Movers Diapers 56-96ct $19.99 Limit 1
$3 Huggies diapers print

$2 ECB wyb Dr. Scholl's Gel insoles for women or for men $9.99 Limit 1
$2 on any Dr. Scholl's Massaging Gel Insoles print

From Slick Deals

Back in the Game

As most might know, I had another beautiful healthy baby girl in April and took some time off from blogging about deals and cooking. This time allowed me to bond with my new baby and enjoy the "free time" off work. Now as the start of reality begins with me returning to work I am more then ever ready to begin the game again! Already I have started to bargain hunt (to help reduce my costs so I can afford daycare!) and will be doing another cooking weekend soon. Check back often for both!!!

Walgreens 02/21 - 02/27

Colgate Toothpaste; Max Fresh, Total, Max White 6 oz., T/B 360 Clean Med #37, Soft #36 $2.49
Colgate 360° ActiFlex manual toothbrush, $1 Printable
Colgate, Total Advanced Whitening, $1 Printable
Colgate, Max Fresh, $.75 Printable

$2RR wyb Goody Ouchless Elastics, 27 pk., $2.99

$4 RR wyb 1 or more participating Gillette Fusion or Venus Razor products $8.99
Gillette Fusion Razor $4 (exp 3/31/10) PG 2/7
Venus Embrace or Spa Breeze system Razor $2 (exp 3/31/10) PG 2/7
Olay Body Wash FREE wyb Venus Embrace or Venus Breeze Razor (exp 3/31/10) PG 2/7

$5RR wyb $10 or more Hershey's Pieces 10 or 10.5oz., 2/$5
Hershey's Pieces, $1/1 1/31/10 SS (4/17/10)

Get $5 RR WYB 2 or more Participating Breathe Right and Abreva products
Abreva Cold Sore Pump .07 oz $15.99
Breathe Right Nasal Strips 26-30ct, 2 oz Spray $9.99
Breathe Right $2 (3/31/10) V 1/3/10

From slickdeals.net

CVS 2/21 - 02/27

$2 ECB wyb Almay Intense i-Color $5.99 Limit 1
Almay Cosmetic Product $2 (3/14/10) SS 2/7/2010

$7.99 ECB wyb EARinse $7.99 - FREE Limit 1

$2 ECB wyb Mennen Speed Stick Stainguard $2.99 Limit 2
Speed Stick or Ladys Speed Stick Deodorant, excludes .5 oz. .50 (2-20-10) SS 1/31/10

$2 ECB wyb Colgate MaxFresh 4.6 - 6 oz $2.99 Limit 1
Colgate Total, MaxWhite, Max Fresh, Sensitive or Kids, 4.0 oz+ .50 (2-20-10) SS 1/31/10

Airwick freshmatic on sale for $5.99
Air Wick Freshmatic Ultra i-motion Starter Kit $5 (3/21/2010) SS 2/7/2010

From slickdeals.net

New Look

I have decided to use a free template to change the look of the blog! As you can see there are pages at the top of the site now that break down my posts by Money Saving tips and Recipes. That way if you want to just read all my money saving tips you don't have to weed through all the recipes.

Let me know what you think!

March - Tentative OAMC Menu

I am preparing for the next round of cooking in March so I thought I would post which recipes are looking good for the next month.

Lunch/Dinner:
Easy Taco Bake [link]
Sloppy Joes [link]
Salsa Chicken [link]
Grilled Chicken with Pesto Pasta [link]
Baked Penne with Sausage [link]
Turkey Tetrazzini [link]

Breakfast:
Breakfast Casserole (for the weekend) [link]
Blueberry Cream Cheese Coffee Cake (for the weekend) [link]
French Toast Sticks [link]

Dessert:
Pineapple Casserole [link]

Food discounts

I will post food discounts tomorrow after I sort through all my coupons. So far Walgreens and CVS has some great deals this week!

Walgreens 2/7 - 2/13

Get $4 RR wyb (1) Gillette Fusion or Venus Razor $8.99
Fusion MVP; Power, Manual Razor
* Gillette Fusion Razor $4 (exp 3/31/10) PG 2/7
Venus; Breeze, Divine, Embrace Razor
* Venus Embrace or Spa Breeze system Razor $2 (exp 3/31/10) PG 2/7
* Olay Body Wash FREE wyb Venus Embrace or Venus Breeze Razor (exp 3/31/10) PG 2/7

Get $3 RR WYB Any 1 Huggies, GoodNites or Pull Ups - $8.99
* GoodNites $1.50 (2/27/10) SS 1/17/10
* Huggies Pull Ups $2 (2/13/10) SS 1/17/10
* Huggies $2 MQ 3pp [google.com]
* Huggies $2 Printable [coupons.com]

Get $5 RR WYB $15 or More Of Participating Nivea Products
Nivea Mens Body Wash 16.9 oz. Assorted - $3.99 ~ $4.79
Nivea Lotion X/Enrich 13.5 oz. - $5.99
Nivea Soft Moist Creme Tube 2.6 oz. - $2.63
Nivea My Body Silouhette Lotion 7 oz. - $12.79
Goodbye Cellulite Gel 6.7 oz. - $15.99
Skin Firming Lotion w/Q10 13.5 oz. - $8.63
Lip Gloss .35 oz. Assorted Flavors - $3.19

Get $5.99 RR wyb Dove Mens Body Wash $5.99 FREE
* Any Dove Mens $1 printable
* Dove Men+Care Body Wash or Scrubber, 13.5oz+ $1.25 (4/25/10) V 1/31/10

From slickdeals.net

CVS 2/7 - 2/13

$5 EB wyb $15 P&G Products Limit 1
Pantene 2/$7
* Pantene, any except trial $1 on 2 (2/28/10) P & G 1/17/10
Olay Complete $8
Olay Complete Defense $13
Gillette Body Wash $4
* Gillette Body Wash 12 oz+ $2 (3/31/10) P&G 2/7/10
Perfect 10 $9.99
Gillette, Secret or Old Spice Clinical $8
* Gillette Deodorant Product $1 (2/28/10) P & G 12/27/09
Venus Embrace, Breeze or Divine $9

$4 EB wyb Gillette Fusion $8.99 Limit 1
* Gillette Fusion Razor $4 (3/31/10) P&G 2/7/09

$1 EB wyb Secret, Old Spice or Gillette Deodorants $3.99 Limit 2
* Gillette Antiperspirant/Deodorant BOGO (3/31/10) P&G 2/7/10
* Gillette Deodorant Product $1 (2/28/10) P & G 12/27/09
* Old Spice Deodorant or Body Wash $1 on 2 (2/28/10) P & G 12/27/09
* Secret .25 (2/28/10) P & G 12/27/09
* Secret Flawless .50 (3/31/10) P & G 1/17/10
* Secret Flawless Free wyb 2 Old Spice Red Zone Deodorants (2/28/10) P & G 12/27/09

From slickdeals.net

CVS 1/31 - 2/6

$5.49 EB wyb Dove Men's Care $5.49 Limit 2 FREE
$1 Printable
Dove Men+Care Body Wash or Scrubber – 13.5oz or larger $1.25 RP 1/31/10

$2 EB wyb Colgate Max Fresh 4.6 - 6 oz $2.99 Limit 1
75 cent printable
Colgate Max Fresh or Max White Toothpaste, 4.0 oz. or larger $1.00 (3/24/10) All You Mag Jan 2010
Colgate Max Fresh (among others), 4.0oz or larger $1.00 (2/20/10) SS 1/31/10 (Regional)

$3 EB wyb $10 Unilever Products Limit 1
Hellman's Mayo BOGO
Hellman’s Product – 16.5oz or larger $.50 RP 1/31/10
Hellman's $0.75/1, any 22oz or larger
Skippy 3/$5
Skippy Peanut Butter 15oz or larger $.40 RP 1/31/10
Ragu 3/$5
Ragu Pasta Sauces $.75/2 RP 1/31/10
Lipton Tea 2/$5
Lipton Tea Bags $.60 RP 1/31/10

$10 EB wyb $50 iTunes Card Limit 1

$5 EB wyb $20 Huggies Products Limit 1
Huggies Jumbo Diapers or Pullups 2/$20
Huggies Wipes 2/$6
Huggies Baby Wipes .50 (2/13/10) SS 1/17/10
Huggies Diapers $1 (2/13/10) SS 1/17/10
Huggies Overnights $1.50 (2/13/10) SS 1/17/10
$2 off any package of Huggies Diapers IP here
Huggies $2 Any [www.coupons.com]

From slickdeals.net [link here]

Walgreens 1/31 - 2/6

♦ $2 RR wyb Vitamin Schtik Lip Care $1.99 FREE
Acai .14 0z., Dragon Fruit .14 oz., Fruit Punch .14 oz.,Lemonade .14 oz.

♦ $7.99 RR wyb Blink Tears $7.99 FREE
$1 MQ Peelie found on product
$1.50 Printable Link [www.yourhealthyeyes.com] (must register first)
Blink Tears, Geltears Lubricating Eye Drops $2.00 RP 1/31/10

♦ $10 RR wyb Joint Juice 30 ct packets $10 FREE
BOGO ANY [www.jointjuice.com]
**you have to print these from the email they send you now
BOGO Joint Juice [www.coupons.com]

♦ $5.99 RR wyb Scalpicin $5.99 FREE
$1 Printable [www.coupons.com]

♦ $4 RR wyb (1) or more participating Gillette Fusion or Venus Razor products Monthly Deal
Fusion MVP; Power, Manual Razor
Gillette Fusion Razor $2 (1/31/10) P & G 12/27/09

From slickdeals.net [link here]

February Shopping List

Here is February's Shopping List:

Seasonings
4 tablespoons EVOO
2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
2 handfuls of fresh basil
4 packages taco seasoning mix
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
4 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Meat
7 lb ground lean beef
2 cups cubed cooked chicken

Veggies
1/2 medium onion, chopped
6 cloves garlic, chopped
2 shallots, chopped
12 green bell peppers
2 pkg. frozen mixed vegetables

Canned Goods
2x 28 oz canned whole, peeled tomatoes
3 small cans chopped green chilies
2 cans regular corn
2 cans creamed corn
12 cups Italian tomato sauce
6-8 cans (10-3/4 ounces) condensed "cream of" soup, undiluted
1 cup salsa
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

Dairy
3 cups shredded cheddar cheese
2 cups grated Parmesan Cheese
2 pounds fresh mozzarella, ½ lb cubed, ½ lb sliced
4 cups grated part-skim mozzarella cheese
2 cups sour cream
1 cup milk
1 cup butter
2 tbs. butter, melted
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
8 eggs
2 cups half & half cream

Bread and Pasta
2 loaf frozen French bread dough or Italian bread dough
2 packages (30 ounces each) frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
1 cup uncooked brown rice
2 pkg. tater tots
2 lbs pasta (ziti or other small tubular pasta)
4 boxes cornbread mix
2 cups cornflake crumbs
2 unbaked pastry shells (9 in)

February Meals

After searching for a few days I found some of the recipes that we will be making next weekend for the month of February. Since I may end up working Sundays for the next 3 weekends (oh joy) we are making the meals a little early. We will make double batches of everything.

Baked Ziti [link here]
Mexican Cornbread Casserole [link here]
Chicken Taco Quiche [link here]
Pizza Roll-Ups [link here]
Shredded Potato Casserole (side dish) [link here]
Stuffed Peppers [link here]
Tator Tot Casserole [link here]

Monday Meal Planning

(link isn't working on picture: got fromorgjunkie.com)

Monday: Brocolli, Chicken and Stuffing Casserole [here]
Tuesday: Buffalo Chicken Pasta [here]
Wednesday: Leftovers
Thursday: Monterrey Chix Quesadillas [here]
Friday: Velveeta Mac and Cheese (need to use the leftover Velveeta from our OAMC)
Saturday: Leftovers
Sunday: Burritos [here]

Shredded Potato Casserole

We are going to try this for the month of February (as a side dish) in the Once a Month Cooking Challenge.

Prep: 10 min.
Bake: 45 min.
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients
1 can (10-3/4 ounces) condensed cream of mushroom soup, undiluted
1 cup (8 ounces) sour cream
1/2 cup milk
1 cup (4 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup butter, melted, divided
1 package (30 ounces) frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed
1 cup cornflake crumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Directions
In a large bowl, combine the soup, sour cream, milk, cheddar cheese and 1/4 cup butter. Stir in the hash browns. Transfer to a greased 13-in. x 9-in. baking dish.
In a small bowl, combine the cornflake crumbs, Parmesan cheese and remaining butter; sprinkle over top. Bake, uncovered, at 325° for 45-50 minutes or until heated through. Yield: 6-8 servings.


Nutrition Facts: 1 serving (3/4 cup) equals 387 calories, 23 g fat (15 g saturated fat), 71 mg cholesterol, 631 mg sodium, 33 g carbohydrate, 2 g fiber, 10 g protein.

Source (inc. picture): www.tasteofhome.com

Shaws deals (until 1/21)

Here are a few of the Shaws deals this week. The rest can be found here.

1.88 Kellogg's Pop Tarts and select cereals
- $1.50/2 miniwheats www.Redplum.com
$1 Halls Cough Drops
- $.50 ip (does NOT say dnd) www.smartsource.com
The Hostess 100 Cal Pks are $1.99.
- .75/1 www.coupons.com (will double) use Zip= 45403
= .50/1

Cool contest I found to win free groceries for a year

Once a Month Cooking

This past Sunday my husband and I cooked 15 meals for the month and it took about 5 hours of working together to get it all done. Overall the experience was great and I feel so relaxed when I come home from work knowing I have food in the freezer. We made double batches of everything.

Here are the meals we made (with links):
Ground Beef Casserole
Burritos (only 1 batch)
Spaghetti Pie
Broccoli, Chicken/Turkey and Stuffing Casserole
Buffalo Chix Pasta
Layered Chicken Enchilada Casserole
Monterrey Chix Quesadillas
French Toast Sticks

So far we have tried the Buffalo Pasta, Beef Casserole and the Layered Enchilada Casserole. Everything is very good!

Candied Pecans

I made these for my coworkers and hubby's coworkers for Christmas. I have even gotten a request to make more because they are so addictive.

You will need:
1/2 cup egg whites
1 bag pecans or walnuts (usually 4 cups)
1/2 cup sugar
Ground cinnamon

Preheat oven to 300. Mix egg white with pecans stirring until pecans are coated evenly. Place pecans on ungreased baking sheets. Evenly place sugar over pecans and stir pecans to coat evenly. Add more sugar if needed. Sprinkle ground cinnamon over pecans and stir to coat evenly. Mix sugar and cinnamon together and sprinkle over pecans. Stir until pecans are evenly coated. Bake 30 minutes. Stir every 10 minutes. Makes 4 cups.

Walgreens Deals for 1/3/10

Progresso Soup 4/$5
Use $1.10/3 Q from www.smartsource.com or www.coupons.com(can print 2 Q per computer)

Buy 9 soups for $11.25
- $3.30 in Q
= $7.95
Get RR for $3 on next purchase
Total cost for 9 cans = $4.95 or $0.55 each!

Colgate 360 toothbrush $3.49
Get RR for $1
Use $1 Q from www.smartsource.com (can print 2 Q per computer)
Total cost = $1.49

Kelloggs Cereal $2/5 (goes for $3 a box at Walmart)
Get RR for $2 when you buy 2 for $5.
There are Qs out there but you'll have to search for them at least for the Special K.
Total cost = $3/2 boxes

Buffalo Chicken Spaghetti

I'm going to try this one just for Dan!

1 lb. spaghetti, fully cooked and drained
1 – 1 1/2 lbs. boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
salt & pepper, to taste
2 c. chicken stock
8 oz. cream cheese
1/4 c. hot sauce (more or less, depending on desired intensity. 1/4 c. will be mild to medium in flavor.)
1 c. Ranch or Bleu cheese dressing

1. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. Place in a skillet with chicken stock, bring to a boil, cover and simmer for 15 – 20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. Remove chicken and reserve 1/2 c. cooking liquid.

2. In a saucepan, combine the cream cheese, hot sauce and reserved cooking liquid. Cook over medium-low heat until the cream cheese is completely melted. While the sauce is cooking, shred or cube the cooked chicken.

3. Add the dressing and chicken to the saucepan, stir to combine, and then toss with the cooked spaghetti.

From http://onceamonthmom.com

Cheese Chicken Quesadillas

1/2 lb. shredded or diced cooked chicken
3/4 c. barbecue sauce (bottled or homemade)
1/2 lb. bacon
1 onion, thinly sliced
2 c. shredded cheese (any would work)
6 burrito-sized flour tortillas
Butter

1. Combine chicken and barbecue sauce. Set aside.

2. Dice the bacon and add to a small skillet. Cook until desired crispness. Remove bacon from skillet with a slotted spoon to drain.

3. Add the sliced onion to the bacon grease in the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, until fully cooked. Remove onions with a slotted spoon and drain.

4. Build quesadillas – on a tortilla layer cheese, chicken, bacon, onion, more cheese and top with a second tortilla.

5. Cook quesadillas in a large skillet with melted butter.

From http://onceamonthmom.com

Saving money and time on cooking

As a working mom I find that coming home right at dinner time with a hungry child was always so stressful for me. I never prepared anything in advance and often asked "what's for dinner?".

My friend Lori gave me the link to Once a Month Mom and gave me the idea to start batch cooking to save time and money. I am hoping that by batch cooking I can save the stress, the time and the money by just reheating all the meals. With Once a Month Mom, she shows how to cook once a month for all your monthly meals. So this month we are going to begin batch cooking and I will post my favorite recipes here to share.

Please check out both Once a Month Mom and My Kind of Rain as they are great blogs that share cooking ideas along with other great ideas!

Abbreviations

B&M = Brick and Morter Store
B1G1 = Buy 1, Get 1 free
CAT - q that prints out at the register
DND = Do not double - If the q starts with a 5 it can be doubled in NH
ECB = Extra Care Bucks at CVS
ESR = EasySaver booklet at WAGS
IP = Internet Printables
MNF = manufacturer q
OOP = out of pocket
P&G = Proctor & Gamble
Q = coupon
RP - Red Plum insert
RR = register rewards - use on next purchase
SS - SmartSource insert
V = Valassis insert
WAGS = Walgreens
WYB - when you buy
YMMV = Your Market May Vary