Sunday's Coming

I just had to share...Sunday's coming!!

Good Friday

But he was pierced for our transgressions,
he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was upon him,
and by his wounds we are healed.
Isaiah 53:5

Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?
John 11: 25-26

FREE Starbucks Coffee (TODAY only)

In honor of Earth Day you can get a FREE cup of coffee or tea at Starbucks today (April 22). All you need to do is bring in a reusable travel cup to participating Starbucks locations.

Go here to read more about this promotion. It looks like you can save 20% off Starbucks Travel Mugs today as well!

Scrubbing Bubbles Coupon

Go here to print a coupon for $1.50 off any Scrubbing Bubbles Product. (You will need to register to print this coupon).
Select Scrubbing Bubbles are regularly priced between $2.00 and $2.50, so a thrifty deal after coupon!

Thanks My Frugal Adventures!

Coupon for Starkist Tuna

Go here to print a coupon for $0.50 off one Starkist Pouch Product.

These are priced at $0.79 at Wal-Mart right now, so just $0.29 after coupon. Albertsons occasionally places these on sale for $1.00, so possibly FREE after coupon is doubled. (Note, the last time I was at Albertsons these were priced around $1.49, but they might go on sale before the coupon expires.)

Stock Up Prices

Over the past couple of weeks I have talked to a lot of people who are starting to use coupons. It seems like every time I go into a store I am stopped by at least one or two people who ask if I use coupons...I guess the big coupon binder kind of gives it away. :) I LOVE that people are interested in using coupons and saving money...we could all stand to save, right?

It seems like the majority of people that have stopped me have mentioned seeing the Extreme Couponing show on TLC. The show caught their attention and they want to learn how to shop like that. My response to them...you really aren't going to be able to save like that in San Angelo. Yes, you can get GREAT deals here, but it isn't like what you see on TV. Our stores place limits on coupons, doubling/tripling, and we just don't see the same number of deals that you can find in other cities/store chains. This isn't meant to be discouraging, but more of a reality...if you know what to expect then you won't get discouraged when you can't buy $2000.00 of groceries for under $10.00. Once you start using coupons, you should easily be able to save 50% to 75% off your bill on a regular basis.

I am sure that TLC encourages the people on their show to come up with the biggest, most extravagant trips they can...I mean, it is called Extreme, right. I can almost guarantee that the majority of those shoppers do not make weekly trips to the stores that are like that. If you'll notice on the show, many of them say that this is their biggest trip ever.

Many of the people talk about never having to pay for toilet paper, paper towels, juice, etc. Well, realistically we can't do the same things here in San Angelo, but we can still save a lot. Below is a list of some of the prices that I regularly spend on grocery staples...something a little more realistic that we can all shoot for. This is not a list that you should try to match...just wanted to show you what works for our family and to give you an idea of some of the prices you can expect to find in San Angelo when you combine sales with coupons. If I have run out of a certain item and cannot find it for the prices I am willing to pay, I usually hold off on buying it until I can find another sale. If it is something that we really want/need then I will try to buy the cheapest brand/product until the next sale

HOUSEHOLD ITEMS:
Toothpaste FREE
Toothbrush FREE
Dental Floss FREE
Deodorant FREE to $0.50
Shampoo FREE to $0.50
Chapstick FREE
Toilet Paper $1.00 for a 4 pack (double rolls)
Cleaning Supplies FREE to $1.00 (depending on type/size/etc.)
Laundry Detergent $1.00 to $1.50 (32 load, HE detergent...you can get even better deals if you don't buy HE)
Dryer Sheets FREE to $0.50
Liquid Hand Soap FREE to $0.30

GROCERIES
Yogurt $0.10-$0.15 per cup (The highest I'll spend is $0.25 per cup, but I try to stick with $0.10 to $0.15)
Eggs $0.79-$0.99 per dozen
Fruit $0.99/lb. (I try to stick with buying fruit in season and spending under $1.00/lb. This doesn't always happen, but it is my goal every shopping trip)
Bagged Salad $0.99 (I love the convenience of bagged salad, but it is expensive. I try to buy the items that are on quick sale and reduced to $0.99)
Baby Carrots $1.00/lb.

Frozen Veggies $0.50 or less per bag (If I am running low, I might purchase them for $0.65-$0.75 per bag, but I try to stick with $0.50)
Ice Cream (BLUE BELL) $2.00 or less per 1/2 gallon. (If you are not particular about your brand you should be able to get some other GREAT deals)
Frozen Pizza $2.50 or less

Canned Vegetables $0.25-$0.35
Canned Soup $0.25-$0.50
Pasta FREE to $0.50
Rice FREE to $0.50
Hamburger Helper FREE to $0.50
Tuna FREE to $0.25
Tomato Sauce FREE to $0.15 (8 ounce cans)
Spaghetti Sauce $0.50 to $1.00 (depending on brand/size)
Ketchup FREE to $0.25
Mustard FREE to $0.10
Peanut Butter FREE to under $1.00
Cake Mix FREE to $0.50
Brownie Mix FREE to $0.50
Crackers (Wheat Thins, Triscuits, Ritz, etc.) $1.00 or less per box
Cereal $1.00 or less per box
Oatmeal FREE (instant/quick oats) to $1.00 or less (box of prepackaged microwave packets)
Chips $1.50 or less per bag
Soy Sauce $0.50 or less
BBQ Sauce FREE to $0.30
Worcestershire Sauce FREE
Tabasco Sauce FREE
Juice $0.99 or less
Bread $1.50 or less (I like to keep it under $1.00 a loaf, but my husband prefers the more expensive bread, so I'll buy the more expensive bread every now and then)
Hamburger Buns/Hotdog buns $0.79
Flour Tortillas FREE to $0.50

Ground Turkey $1.00/lb.
Boneless/Skinless Chicken Breast $1.29/lb. to $1.88/lb.
Roast $1.99/lb. or less
Ground Beef $2.00/lb. or less (I try to stock up on ground beef when HEB has a meal deal...buy ground beef get 3 or 4 other things FREE. Ground beef can be expensive, but if you get extras thrown in for free then I think it is a better deal.)

Feel free to add any of your own stock up prices for items in the comments below.

Orange Juice--Only $4.98 :)

Last night our older boys had a couple of their friends come over for a sleepover. This morning when we woke up, I asked my husband to run to Wal-Mart to pick up some doughnuts and orange juice. He left (with no coupons), and returned a little while later.

Some of the first words out of his mouth were, "Do you know how much orange juice costs now? $4.98!"

Sure am glad that I use coupons and shop sales...if I paid full price for orange juice every week I'm not sure I would have money left to feed my boys.

Are you guys noticing that prices are going up? Is it changing the way you shop?

Snuggle Coupon

Go here to print a coupon for $1.00 off Snuggle Fabric Softener or Dryer Sheets.

Wal-Mart has the Snuggle Dryer Sheets (40 ct.) priced at $1.87, so just $0.87 after coupon.

Kikkoman Soy Sauce--$0.48

Go here and print a coupon for $1.00 off any Kikkoman product. Wal-Mart has Kikkoman Soy Sauce priced at $1.48 a bottle, so just $0.48 after coupon.

There is also a coupon for Buy any Kikkoman Sauce Get a FREE 10 oz. Kikkoman Ponzu Sauce.

Note...a large ad prints after the coupon, so if you want to save printer ink hit cancel after the coupon has printed.

Coupon for Bagel Bites

Go here to print a coupon for $1.00 off Bagel Bites. It seems like the smaller boxes are regularly priced between $2.00 and $2.50, so you might be able to get a box for right around $1.00.

The last time this coupon was available, there was a Target coupon that was available at the same. I was able to get several boxes for FREE when I combined the coupons. Wouldn't it be nice if Target released another coupon for these?

I found these using zip code 76904 and clicking on the Foods Category.

Some Deals at Wal-Mart

I know I rarely do a post about the GREAT deals you can get at Wal-Mart...unless I am pointing out some prices from other ads to price match there. The truth is that since I started seriously couponing, I rarely do my big grocery shopping trips at Wal-Mart. I find that I save more money at Albertsons and HEB. That being said, I wanted to let you guys know that there are still some AWESOME deals at Wal-Mart. Below is a quick list of some deals that you can find there. Please keep in mind that not all prices are 100% accurate. It seems like prices are changing on a daily basis, so prices may vary a little bit.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of the deals you can get at Wal-Mart right now. These are only the ones that I can think of off the top of my head.

Similac Ready to Feed Formula $3.86
-use coupon for $5.00 off any Similac (found in 4/3 SmartSource insert) (Limit 1 per transaction)
Final Price: FREE (plus $1.14 overage) (Even if you don't have a baby, these are great to buy and donate...take the overage that you receive to help lower the cost of other groceries you are purchasing)

Reach Floss $0.88
-use coupon for $1.00 off Floss (found here)
Final Price: FREE (plus $0.12 overage)

Quaker Instant Oatmeal Pouch $1.00
-use coupon for $1.00 off Quaker Quick or Old Fashioned Oats (found in 1/2 RedPlum insert)
Final Price: FREE

Taco Bell Taco Seasonings $0.50
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 select Taco Bell products (found in February All You magazine)
Final Price: 2 for FREE

McCormick Taco Seasonings $0.50
-use coupon for $1.00 off McCormick Seasonings (found in 3/13 RedPlum insert)
Final Price: FREE (plus $0.50 overage)

McCormick Taco Seasonings $0.50
-use coupon for $0.75 off McCormick Seasonings (found in 4/10 RedPlum insert)
Final Price: FREE (plus $0.25 overage)

Maruchan Yakisoba Noodles $0.54
-use coupon for $0.50 off Yakisoba Noodles (found in 3/13 SmartSource insert)
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Yakisoba Noodles (found in 3/13 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: $0.04

Philadelphia Cooking Creme $2.48
-use coupon for $1.50 off Philadelphia Cooking Creme (found in 3/6 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: $0.98

Dannon Danimals Yogurt (4 packs) $1.97
-use coupon for $1.00 off Danimals product (found in 2/27 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: $0.97

Rhodes Frozen Rolls $1.88
-use coupon for $1.00 off Rhodes Rolls (found in 3/20 RedPlum insert)
Final Price: $0.88

Birds Eye Frozen Veggies $1.00
-use coupon for $1.00 off 3 Birds Eye Vegetables (found in 3/20 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: $0.67 each

Carefree Liners $0.94
-use coupon for $0.50 off Carefree liners (found in 3/27 RedPlum insert)
Final Price: $0.44

Spic and Span Liquid Cleaner $0.97
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Spic and Span Cleaners (found here)
Final Price: $0.47 each

Target--FREE Granola Bars

How do FREE granola bars sound? If you like FREE, then you'll like this easy deal.

Buy 2 Nature Valley Granola Bars (4 ct.) $1.00 each (These are found in the dollar spot at Target. This is kind of a hit or miss at our local Target. The last time I was there they had a fairly large stock of these.)
-use Target coupon for $1.00 off 2 Nature Valley snack bars (found here)(click on Grocery category to find coupon quickly)
-AND use 2 Man. coupons for $0.50 off Nature Valley Granola Bars (found here)
Final Price: 2 boxes for FREE

If you can't find the small 4 ct. boxes at Target, you might want to hold onto the $0.50 coupons. It seems like every few weeks Albertsons will put select General Mills snacks on sale 3 for $5.00...after coupon is doubled, we might be able to get full size boxes for $0.67 a piece.

Thanks Totally Target!

Can You Save Money Without Using Coupons?

I have had a lot of people tell me that they just don't have the time to clip and organize coupons, but they still want to save money. Their next question of course is, "Is it possible to save money without using coupons?" My answer is, "YES!" Of course you won't see the same amount of savings, but it is possible to save without using a single coupon.

If you don't have the time to clip a single coupon, you can still shop at HEB. If you focus on getting their Meal Deals and Combo Locos you'll still be able to save quite a bit...just remember to pick up the yellow in store coupons while you are shopping.

Another GREAT way to save money without clipping a single coupon is by price matching at Wal-Mart. I went to Wal-Mart today so I could show you that it's possible to save without using a single coupon.



Before price matching my total was right around $60.00, after price matching I was able to get it down to $42.00...$18.00 in savings...30%! It is possible to save money without using coupons. Of course I couldn't make it through the store without using my coupons. After price matching AND coupons I was able to get my total down to $18.30. Not the best trip, but I wanted to make a point that YES you can save without coupons...but with a little extra effort you can save enough to make clipping coupons worth your while! It took me about 15 minutes to get my coupons and shopping list together, and it took me about 20 minutes shopping at Wal-Mart. I saved over $40.00 for 35 minutes of work...DEFINITELY worth it to me to price match AND use coupons!

Albertsons Ad/Coupon Match Up (April 20 - 26)

Albertsons will:
-double coupons up to and including $0.50
-triple coupons up to and including $0.39
-only double/triple up to 4 like coupons per transaction
-accept TWO coupons during a Buy One Get One FREE Sale (as long as each coupon is $X.XX off ONE product)
-allow you to combine a manufacturer coupon with a store coupon

There is an Albertson's in ad coupon for $5.00 off when you make a $50.00 purchase.

4 Day Sale (Wednesday to Saturday)

Ribeye Steak or Roast $5.77/lb.

Jumbo Raw Shrimp $4.99/lb.

Strawberries (2 lbs.) $3.99

Ozarka Water (24 pack) $2.99 (limit 2)

Ball Park Franks BOGO
-use coupon for $1.00 off any Ball Park product (found here)
-use coupon for $0.55 off any Ball Park product (found here)
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Ball Park products (found in 3/27 RedPlum insert)

OTHER GROCERY DEALS:

Blue Bell Ice Cream (1/2 Gallon) $2.98 (limit 2)
-use coupon for $1.00 off Blue Bell (found here)
Final Price: $1.98

Frito Lay Lay's Chips (BOGO)
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Lay's Chips (found in 3/13 SmartSource insert)

Nabisco Snack Crackers 3 for $5.00 ($1.67 each)
(I am not sure what crackers are included at this price. In the ad it shows Triscuits and Wheat Thins)
-use coupon for $1.00 off Wheat Thins Crunch Stix (found here and here and in 4/17 SmartSource insert)
-use coupon for $1.00 off Triscuits (found here)
Final Price: $0.67

Dannon Yogurt Cups 4 for $1.00 ($0.25) (limit 12)
-use coupon for $1.00 off 10 Dannon Light and Fit (found in 4/10 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: $1.50 for 10 ($0.15 each)

Hormel Bacon BOGO

KC Masterpiece BBQ Sauce $0.79
-use coupon for $0.50 off KC BBQ Sauce (found in 3/13 SmartSource insert) (Will double)
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 KC BBQ Sauces (found in 3/13 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: As low as FREE

Del Monte Canned Vegetables $0.49
-If you are playing the Monopoly game you might have a coupon for this. In one of my game pieces was a coupon for $0.50 off Del Monte Green Beans.
Final Price: FREE

Del Monte Canned Tomatoes $0.69

Del Monte Canned Fruit $0.89

Del Monte Pineapple $0.69

Select Easter Candy BOGO
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Mars Easter Products (found in 3/20 and 4/10 RedPlum inserts)
Final Price: Possibly FREE

Hormel Tenderloins or Filets BOGO

C&H Sugar $2.19
-use coupon for $0.50 of C&H Sugar Product (found in 3/27 RedPlum insert)(will double)
Final Price: $1.19

Dannon Danimals $2.00
-use coupon for $1.00 off any Danimals Product (found in 2/27 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: $1.00

Silk Soy Milk $2.99
-use coupon for $1.00 off Silk (found in 4/10 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: $1.99

Sister Schubert's Dinner Rolls $2.99
-use coupon for $0.50 off Sister Schubert's (found in 4/17 SmartSource insert and April/May All You magazine) (will double)
Final Price: $1.99

Reddi Wip Whipped Topping $2.49
-use coupon for $0.35 off Reddi Wip (found in 4/10 SmartSource insert) (will triple)
Final Price: $1.44

Nestle Semi Sweet Morsels $2.50
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Nestle Morsels (found in 4/10 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: $2.00 each

Coffee Mate Creamer $2.00
-use coupon for $0.55 off Creamer (found here)
Final Price: $1.45

Kraft Mayo or Miracle Whip $2.99
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Mayo or Miracle Whip (found in 4/10 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: $2.49 each

Kraft Salad Dressing $2.00
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Kraft Dressings (found in 4/10 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: $1.50 each

Frito Lay Kettle Chips $2.99
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Lays Kettle Chips (found in 3/13 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: $2.49 each

Sunshine Cheez-it Crackers $2.99
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Cheez-It Crackers (found here)
Final Price: $2.49 each

Pepperidge Farm Cookies or Baked Naturals $2.50
-use coupon for $1.00 off Baked Naturals (found in 4/10 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: $1.50

Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage $3.50
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage (found in 4/10 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: $3.00 each

King's Hawaiian Rolls $3.00
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Rolls (found in 4/17 RedPlum insert and here)
Final Price: $2.50 each

Jimmy Dean Sausage Roll $3.00
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Sausage Rolls (found in 4/17 RedPlum insert)
Final Price: $2.50 each

Charmin Basic Bath Tissue $5.99
-use coupon for $0.25 off Charmin (found in 4/3 Proctor and Gamble insert) (will triple)
Final Price: $5.24

Cascade Detergent $2.99
-use coupon for $0.25 off Cascade (found in 4/3 Proctor and Gamble insert) (will triple)
Final Price: $2.24

Chinet Plates $2.00
-use coupon for $1.00 off Chinet (found here)
-use coupon for $0.55 off Chinet casuals (found in 4/17 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: $1.00

Look for the Albertsons Ad/Coupon Match Ups sometime tomorrow morning. It has been a busy day and I'm going to be heading to bed soon.

HEB Ad/Coupon Match Up (April 20 - 26)

MEAL DEAL:

BUY:
HEB Fully Cooked Beef Brisket, or HEB Spiral Sliced Bone-In Half or Whole Ham, or HEB Fully Cooked Boneless Beef Prime Rib Roast
GET FREE:
Head Country BBQ Sauce
Hill Country Fare Texas Style Ranch Beans
Handi-Foil Giant Rectangular Rack or Oval Roaster
Fresh Express Spinach
HEB Pure Cane Sugar Soft Drinks
Ball Park Meat, Bun Size or Turkey Franks
Hill Country Fare Deli Style Potato Salad

COMBO LOCOS:

BUY:
Doritos Tortilla Chips
GET FREE:
HEB Flavored Tortilla Chips

BUY:
2 Pepperidge Farm Goldfish
-use coupon for $0.35 off Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Grahams (This coupon is no longer available to print, but was found at coupons.com a couple of weeks ago.)
GET FREE:
Pepperidge Farm Deli Flats

BUY:
2 Tostitos Tortilla Chips
GET FREE:
Tostitos Salsa

BUY:
Oscar Mayer Ham or Variety Pack
GET FREE:
Kraft Miracle Whip or Mayo

BUY:
2 Kraft Shredded Natural Cheese
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Kraft Natural Shredded Cheese (found in 3/13 SmartSource insert)
GET FREE:
Philadelphia Cooking Creme

BUY:
10" Angel Food Cake
Reddi Wip Topping
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Reddi Wip (found in 4/10 SmartSource insert and April All You magazine)
GET FREE:
Strawberries (1 lb.)

BUY:
HEB Chef Prepared Whole Rotisserie Chicken
GET FREE:
1/2 lb. of HEB Chef Prepared Rotisserie Chicken Salad
Sun Drop Soda (2 liter)

BUY:
Kiolbassa Smoked Sausage
GET FREE:
HEB Charcoal

BUY:
3 Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, or Coca-Cola Zero 12 packs
GET 4th FREE!

BUY:
HEB Premium Bacon
GET FREE:
Better Oats Instant Oatmeal

BUY:
Athenos Hummus
GET FREE:
HEB Premium Quality Naan Bread

BUY:
11" Apple Pie
GET FREE:
Pepsi Max (2 liter)

BUY:
HEB Sushiya Item ($7.99 or higher)
GET FREE:
Fiji Natural Artesian Water (1 liter)

BUY:
Dove Men+Care Body Wash or Active Clean Shower Tool
-use coupon for $1.00 off Dove Men+Care Body and Face Wash or Active Clean Shower Tool (found in 3/27 RedPlum insert)
GET FREE:
Dove Men+Care Deodorant

BUY:
Advil Tablets or Caplets (50 ct.)
-use coupon for $1.00 off Advil 40 ct. or larger (found in 3/27 RedPlum insert)
-use coupon for $1.00 off Advil, Advil PM, or ThermaCare Heatwraps (found in May All You magazine)
GET FREE:
ChapStick (3 pack)

BUY:
Brita Pitcher Filters (3 pack)
-use coupon for $4.00 off Brita Pitcher Filters 3 pack (found in April All You magazine)
-use coupon for $1.00 off Brita Filters multipack (found in 4/17 SmartSource insert)
GET FREE:
1 Brita Slim Pitcher or 1 Brita Bottle Water Filtration System

BUY:
Dasani Purified Water (24 pack)
GET FREE:
Fashion Reusable Bag

BUY:
Gift Cards ($30.00 minimum)
GET FREE:
Hershey's Candy

BUY:
Eco Friendly Stainless Steel Hydration Bottle
GET 2nd FREE

BUY:
Igloo Island Breeze 28 Quart Rolling Cooler
GET FREE:
HEB Soft Drinks (12 pack)

BUY:
Char-Griller Smokin' Pro Grill
GET FREE:
$20.00 coupon towards a brisket or any meat item in the Market Dept.
HEB Charcoal Lighter Fluid
HEB Hardwood Lump Charcoal
Handi-Foil Large Roasting Pan
HEB Mesquite Grilling Logs

BUY:
Munchkin Baby Wipes Green Tea & Cucumber or Shea Butter Refill
GET 2nd FREE

BUY:
Munchkin Jumbo Pack Diapers
GET 2nd FREE

BUY:
2 Hill Country Essentials White or Pink Moisturizing Beauty Bars
GET 3rd FREE

BUY:
Orchid Antibacterial Hand Soap or Sanitizer (8 oz)
GET FREE:
Orchid Antibacterial Hand Sanitizer (2 oz)

BUY:
Garnier Fructis Shampoo or Conditioner
-use coupon for $1.00 off Garnier Fructis Shampoo or Conditioner (found in 2/6 and 3/6 RedPlum inserts)
GET FREE:
HEB Reusable Bag

Good Deals in the Lowe's Ad

Please keep in mind that if you do not regularly shop at Lowe's then you can still get these deals by price matching at Wal-Mart.

Strawberries (1 lb.) $0.99
(This is the best deal on strawberries that I have seen since the summer)

Lay's Potato Chips $1.97
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 bags of Lay's Potato Chips (found in 3/13 SmartSource insert)
Final Price: $2.94 for 2 ($1.47 each)

Bar S Franks 2 for $1.00 (limit 4)
-use coupon for $1.00 off 2 Bar S Franks (found in 1/30 RedPlum insert and here)
Final Price: FREE

Milk (gallon) $2.50
(You won't get a big savings on the milk, but as long as you are price matching you might as well include it if you need milk. :)

Lowe's Sandwich White Bread $0.68

Santitas Corn Chips $1.67

Zucchini and Yellow Squash $0.99/lb.

Shopping Confession

I picked my boys up from school this afternoon, and we headed to Sam's. I wanted to pick up a bag of lettuce...a quick in and out trip...$2.00 or $3.00. Well, things didn't quite work out that way. :)

We were in the produce section picking up the lettuce. I hear one of my boys say, "The broccoli looks good." Well, you know that is music to a mom's ears, so of course I picked up a bag of broccoli...not paying attention to the $5.00 price tag. Then we walked a little further along. "Mom those cherry tomatoes look good." Again, into the cart they go...$5.48 a pop. Strawberries..."Oh those look good!" $3.76 for a 2 lb. container. (I know full well that these are on sale for $0.99 a lb. at Lowe's this week, but did I stop to think about that while at Sam's? NO.)

Then comes the dreaded free samples. A friendly lady was handing out turkey sandwiches on sweet rolls. "Wow, these are good! Can we have these for supper?" It's Wednesday, which means a mad dash out the door to church, and I hadn't even stopped to think about what we would have for supper...never mind that our freezer has pizza, corn dogs, and other easy meals in it. So we picked up the ingredients for the delicious sandwiches.

A few more aisles and a few more items being added to the cart. We got up to check out and what was supposed to be a $2.00 or $3.00 trip ended up being $60.00! I haven't been doing a lot of grocery shopping this month, so our grocery envelope was still full...who knew that a quick trip to Sam's would put a dent in it. :)

I thought about not sharing this little trip with you, but wanted to keep it real...yes, I sometimes don't shop with coupons. Yes, I sometimes make impulse buys, and yes, I sometimes deviate from the plan. You know, that is one of the best things about using coupons...having the freedom in my grocery budget to have trips like this every now and then. Before using coupons, if I had a random trip to Sam's like I did today it could mess with our budget for the rest of the month. We still have plenty of money left over in our food budget for the rest of the month...and I have several boys who are happy that they got to pick up random things at the grocery store. Black forest ham and rolls (Josh--our carnivore), Strawberries (Jacob--he loves to take a bite out of each one and then place them back in the container for me to find), and Pickles, Pickled Okra, and Cherry Tomatoes (Aaron--what can I say, a boy after my heart) :)

Do you have any shopping confessions you'd like to make? Feel free to comment below.

CVS--FREE Deodorant

Starting on Sunday, April 24th, CVS is supposed to have Dove Men+Care Deodorant on sale for $0.99 (limit 5). This is a great price by itself, but of course coupons always make the deal better!!

Dove Deodorant $0.99
-use coupon for $1.00 off Dove Men+Care Deodorant (found in 3/27 RedPlum insert) (Note, this coupon expires on April 24th, so you will only be able to use it on the first day of the sale)
-use coupon for $1.00 off Dove Men+Care Deodorant (found here)(Note, this coupon is a manufacturer's coupon, but it does say Redeem at Wal-Mart. CVS should take this coupon, but if you are worried about running into an issue at the register, you could always price match the deodorant at Wal-Mart and use this coupon there.)
Final Price: FREE!!

Thanks Simply CVS!

No Coupon Inserts this Sunday

I just wanted to give you a heads up that there are not supposed to be any coupon inserts in this Sunday's newspaper. There have been times when a General Mills coupon insert has found its way into a newspaper that was not supposed to have any inserts.

Your best bet would be to flip through your newspapers before you buy them...not just this Sunday, but make it a habit to do so every week.

If you'd like to see a schedule of what inserts can be expected in the newspaper each week go here and scroll down to the date you are interested in.

Coupon for Reach Toothbrushes (FREE)

How about some free toothbrushes to go along with your free floss? Go here to print a coupon for $2.00 off any 2 Reach Toothbrushes.

CVS has select Oral and Skin Care items on sale for $1.00 this week. Included in this sale are Reach Total Care Toothbrushes. With coupon you'll be able to get two for FREE.

If you are unable to find these in stock at CVS, you can either ask for a rain check or take the ad into Wal-Mart and price match there.

I found this coupon using zip code 76904 and clicking on the Personal Care Category

Coupon for Reach Floss (FREE!!)

The coupons just keep coming today...I am having a hard time keeping up.

There's a GREAT coupon available for $1.00 off Reach Floss that can be found here. I found it using zip code 76904 and clicking on the Personal Care category.

This coupon will easily get you FREE floss. Select packages of Reach Floss are priced under $1.00 at both Target and Wal-Mart.

Once you start using coupons and shopping sales you should get to a point where you never have to pay for toothpaste, toothbrushes, or floss again. If you have a pretty large stockpile of floss, this would be great to donate.

Coupon for Spic and Span

There is a coupon available here for $1.00 off 2 Spic and Span Products. There have been reports that you can find these as low as $0.97 a bottle at Wal-Mart. (I have not confirmed this price) If you can find them at that price, you'll be able to get 2 bottles for $0.94 (just $0.47 per bottle).

I found this coupon using zip code 76904 and clicking on the Household category.

Coupon for $0.50 off Target Cafe Purchase

I have to say that I get so excited about this coupon. Go here to print a coupon for $0.50 off any Target Cafe Purchase.

It seems like this coupon resets about every month.

My youngest son gets to go with me on all my shopping trips since he isn't in school yet, and I know that he likes this coupon even more than I do. He will munch happily on popcorn while I search for deals.

Coupon for Wheat Thin Stix

Go here to print a coupon for $1.00 off Wheat Thins Stix. This is a fairly high value coupon for one box of crackers.

In this week's Target ad it shows Nabisco Wheat Thins, Chips Ahoy, and selected others on sale for $2.00. If the Wheat Thin Stix are included at this price then you should be able to pick up a box for $1.00.

Coupon for Birds Eye Voila

There's a high value coupon that can be found here for $3.00 off one Birds Eye Voila Family Size Item.

It seems like the regular sized bags are usually priced between $3.00 and $4.00, but I'm not sure that I've ever seen the Family Size Bags. I am thinking that they are just coming out with a bigger bag...I have to say that I'm happy about that because with 3 growing boys, one bag wouldn't go far in our family. :)

I believe this coupon will change to $2.00 off after they reach a certain number of prints, so you'll want to hurry and print yours if you are interested.


Thanks Couponing to Disney!

Rare Coupons for Chicken Breast

There are a couple of really rare coupons available at coupons.com right now.

Save $2.50 off any TWO Foster Farms Boneless, Skinless Fresh Chicken Breast Items

Save $1.00 off any Foster Farms Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast Item

There are no size restrictions listed on the coupon, so if you are able to find smaller packages you should be able to get a pretty good deal...even better if you can find some that are on quick sale.

I found these using zip code 90210 and clicking on the Foods category.

Thanks My Frugal Adventures!

Another Candy Coupon!

Even more coupons for candy!! Coupons.com has a few new coupons that are available.

There's a coupon for $0.30 off any 4 oz. or larger package of Haribo candy. I know this isn't a high value coupon, but I've never seen a coupon for this product before, so I thought I'd point it out.

My husband says this candy reminds him of when he was little and living in Germany. They make gummy bears, gummy Coke bottles, etc. I just might pick up a bag of these for him!

I found this using zip code 76904 and clicking on the Foods Category.

Waste Not...

Please tell me that I am not the only one that finds this by the bathroom sink...



I can't stand finding toothpaste stuck to the counter or in the sink! It seems like I am wiping toothpaste up several times a week.

Tonight I once again found this lovely mess. I pulled my boys in the bathroom and asked them who did it. One confessed (he asked to remain nameless). I then proceeded to ask them if they knew how much a tube of toothpaste costs.

From out in the hallway, I hear my oh so wonderful husband say, "You get it for free!" There goes my lesson to the children about being wasteful. I couldn't keep it together long enough to go on with my lecture.

For those of you who know my husband, you know that he got a kick out of that. :)

GREAT Deal on Lysol Wipes

Go here and like Lysol on Facebook and you'll be able to print a coupon for $1.50 off any Lysol Disinfecting Wipes.

This week's Target ad shows Lysol 28 ct. Dual Action Wipes on sale for $1.89, so only $0.39 after coupon.

This is a GREAT deal!!

Thanks My Frugal Adventures!

Even More FREE Candy

Go here and Like Peeps on Facebook and you'll be able to print a coupon for $1.00 off any 2 Peeps Chocolate Items.

Walgreens has an in ad coupon for these that will make them 2 for $1.00. After using the coupon, you'll be able to get two for FREE!!

Do y'all like Peeps? I've never tried one (plain or chocolate covered), but in my opinion they might be the most unappealing candy I've ever seen. :)

HEB Shopping Trip--April 18th

I needed to use up some catalina coupons that were expiring today at HEB. I didn't have a plan going in to HEB, except to purchase some bread. I bought everything pictured below and spent...



$5.34. I saved $32.13

2 loaves of HEB White Bread $1.69 each
-used 2 HEB in store coupons for $0.75 off HEB White Bread
Final Price: $1.88 for both ($0.94 each)

1 Similac Sensitive Formula $3.84
-used coupon for $5.00 off any Similac Product (found in 4/3 SmartSource insert) (If you are planning on using this coupon, there is fine print that says you may only use ONE per transaction)
Final Price: FREE PLUS $1.16 overage (This is a GREAT item to pick up and donate!!)

15 Central Market Organics Frozen Veggies $1.45 each
-used 15 HEB in store coupons for $1.00 off Central Market Organics Veggies
Final Price: $6.75 for 15 ($0.45 each)
I went this morning and there was a large supply of these in the freezer section. I don't believe this was advertised in the ads, so they had a lot in stock.

3 HEB Easy Melt Shells and Cheese $1.29 each (This was marked at $1.50, but rang up at $1.29)
-used 3 coupons for $2.00 off any HEB brand item (Catalina coupon)
Final Price: FREE PLUS $2.13 overage

3 HEB Chunk Light Tuna $0.65 each
-used 3 HEB in store coupons for FREE Tuna wyb HEB Shells and Cheese
Final Price: FREE

Final price for everything was a little over $5.00...not bad for 24 items...that breaks down to about $0.21 per item.

Another Candy Deal at Walgreens

With all the deals that we've seen on candy over the last couple of weeks I am hoping that you are well stocked for Easter baskets. Here's another GREAT deal that I found at Walgreens.




On the back of the Walgreens ad is an in ad coupon that will make Mars and Dove individual candy each $0.39. That in itself is a pretty good deal, but of course the deal gets better.

A couple of deal scenarios:

Buy 3 Dove Candy Bars $0.39 (with in ad coupon)
-use coupon for $1.00 off 3 Dove bars (found in 3/6 RedPlum insert)
Final Price: $0.17 for all 3 candy bars (around $0.05 each)

BUY 3 Snickers Peanut Butter Squared
-use coupon for Buy 2 select Snickers, Dove, M&Ms Peanut Butter Candy get one FREE (found in 3/27 RedPlum insert)
The Snickers Squared are regularly priced at $0.89
IF you hand the cashier the manufacturer's coupon BEFORE the in ad coupon, then the full $0.89 will be taken off for the candy you get FREE
Final Price: $0.28 for all 3 candy bars (around $0.09 each)

These would make GREAT filler items if you are needing some extra items for your coupon to item ratio!!

HEB--Great Deal on Organic Veggies

I ran by HEB today to use up some coupons that were expiring. While I was there I came across a great deal that I thought you guys might be interested in.



Central Market Organic Frozen Veggies were priced at $1.45. (Varieties that I saw at this price were Sweet Corn, Peas, and Mixed Vegetables). Right by these vegetables were yellow HEB store coupons for $1.00 off one bag...making the final price just $0.45 for a bag of organic veggies!!

I usually try to spend less than $0.50 a bag for frozen veggies...but the fact that these are organic makes the deal even sweeter!!

I was at HEB this morning and there was a freezer full of them. I believe the coupon doesn't expire until April 26th, but I'm not completely certain.

Target--$3.00 off Plus Size Apparel

There is a new coupon available for $3.00 off any Women's Plus Size Apparel Item that can be found here. I found this quickly by clicking on the Apparel and Accessories Category. Please keep in mind that the coupons for clothing usually go very quickly, so you'll want to print this now if you are interested.

I know that our Target usually has 3 or 4 racks of clothes marked down 30% to 75% off. Using this coupon, you should be able to get an AWESOME deal on clothes on the clearance racks...possibly even FREE shirts!!

If you don't wear plus size clothes, think about picking up a few items and donating them...or you might want to pick up some items to put back for Christmas gifts. I know that there are always people that could use clothes, and if you can get items for FREE then by all means do it and BLESS someone else!!

Stove Top Stuffing $0.38

There is a coupon for $0.50 off Stove Top Stuffing available if you Like Stove Top Stuffing on Facebook.


Stove Top Stuffing is priced at $0.88 at CVS this week, so when you use the coupon you'll pay only $0.38 a box. This is a GREAT deal! The last time I priced these at Wal-Mart, they were over $1.50 for one box. Our local CVS doesn't carry a huge stock of food items, so your best bet would probably be to take the CVS ad to Wal-Mart and price match there.

Remember that you should be able to print TWO coupons per computer.