Eating Prime On A Dime

Eye Glasses

2010-02-03T15:40:00.000-08:00

Hi, I think that getting glasses online was mentioned on here before, but since we recently tried them, I thought it would be good to bring it up again. Josh ordered a pair from Zenni, and is very satisfied. His were a bit more than $8, but he needed progressive lenses. As with any glasses, the price will vary with different frames and lenses. To get the correct size, you can just look at the glasses you already have(there are usually numbers on the sidepiece). He did need to call the eye doctor in order to get the PD number ( they don't normally put on your prescription), otherwise I believe the rest of the necessary info was there.

Zenni Optical - Complete prescription eyeglasses from $8.00

Fred Meyer Deals

2010-01-16T10:47:00.000-08:00

Alice sent this note to all of us ... Thanks Alice!

Today's Columbian had three great 3 day coupons on page A6. They are good Friday through Sunday.

FM Mac & Cheese 0.15ea limit 6
FM Bath Tissue 6 Double Rolls 0.99ea limit 2
Big K Pop 20oz 0.10ea limit 5

How Are You Using Your Corn Flakes?

2010-01-12T22:09:00.000-08:00

If you're like me, you have a good stock of Corn Flakes in your pantry. How have you been using them? I've tried a number of different things, they've all turned out quite good, and there were no pictures taken before they were devoured.

Our favorite was fruit dessert the other night.
I used the Corn Flakes as you would use graham cracker crumbs.

Fruit Dessert

I used about 4 cups of Corn Flakes, crushed slightly
1/2 cup of butter
1/3 cup sugar.
Mix well and pat into bottom of 9x13 pan. Bake at 350 for about 10 minutes, until lightly browned.

Remove from oven and cool.

Mix together:
4 oz cream cheese
40z vanilla yogurt
4oz cool whip or whipped cream
( I had about 1/4 cup of powdered sugar frosting which I threw in)
Spread over cooled crust.
Top with cut up fruit. ( blueberries, raspberries, pineapple, kiwi. I used a mix of frozen and fresh)
Very good!

Corn Flake Bars

1 10oz pkg marshmellows
1/4 cup butter
1/2 cup peanut butter ( optional)
Melt the above together, stir well to mix.
Pour over about 6 cups of Corn Flakes. Add more cereal if needed. Press into greased 9x13 pan. Allow to cool.

Corn Flake Chicken
Crush 4 cups of Corn Flakes - put into gallon size zip lock.
Sprinkle into the bag a generous amount of the 'cooking' seasonings you have ( chili powder, garlic, onion, basil, pepper, salt, oregano, etc.) Get creative... I add probably a 1/2 tsp of each of these...

Mix together. Wash your chicken pieces... remove the skin. While still damp, place a few pieces at a time into the bag. Shake well. Put chicken pieces on a greased baking pan.
Bake at 350 for about an hour. Check at the end of baking time to insure proper cooking temperature.

If you're making a casserole of any type, add a few tbls. of butter to a couple cups of corn flakes and sprinkle on top. Makes a plain 'ole mac-n-cheese a gourmet meal!

Albertson's Deals 1/6-1/13

2010-01-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

Thank you to Jane, at Alltogetherbeautiful for this posting. Be sure to follow her blog, she has some good deals and neat ideas!
Current Catalina Deals/Promotion:
Please see my separate post HERE for the current Catalina Promotions.

Lingo Definitions:
BOGO or B1G1-Buy one get one free
Peelie-Coupons on package
WYB-When you Buy Exp-Expires
MIR-Mail in Rebate
Catalina-Thin paper coupons that print at register
OYNO-On your next order
IP-Internet Printable Coupon

Ad Highlights:
There are 3 Twice the Value Coupons on the back page that are valid all week! (through the sales ad week)

Betty Crocker/General Mills Promo: There will be numerous ways to stretch your dollar this week using this promotion, available Coupons from the Sunday paper and Coupons.com and the Twice the Value Coupons!

Buy one get one free Meat Sale

Albertsons Cheese 98 cents:
Shredded, 6-8 oz. select varieties
Chunk, 6-8 oz. select varieties
Cream Cheese 8 oz. select varieties

Lean Cuisine Entree or Panini or Marie Callender's Dinner or Pot Pie-$1.67 ea.

Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, or Granny Smith Apples 99 cents per #

10# Bag of Russet Potatoes 99 cents

Bone-In Assorted Pork Chops, 99 cents per #

In-Store Coupons-These are Albertsons Store coupons, so they can be combined with a manuf. coupon

Albertsons Whole Frying Chicken, 69 cents per #, limit 2
Skippy Peanut Butter 99 cents ea, limit 6
Alb. Mac and Cheese Dinner 39 cents ea, limit 8
Starkist Chunk Tuna 57 cents ea, limit 4
Aquarius or Albertsons 24 pk. water 2/$5, limit 4
Java Delight Ground or Whole Bean Coffee, $3.99, limit 6
Breyers Ice Cream 1.5 qt. $1.99, limit 4

Albertsons-Current Catalina deals

Here are the current Catalina Offers that I know about at Albertsons. If you know of any I missed, please let me know!

Nature Valley Granola Bars:
Buy (3) and get $1.50
Buy (4) and get $2.50
Buy (5) or more and get $3.50
Off your next order-Catalina Coupon will print at Check-out
Promotion between 12-28 and 1-24

Post Shredded Wheat Cereal:
Buy (2) and get $1.00
Buy (3) and get $2.00
Buy (4) or more and get $3.00
Off your next order-Catalina Coupon will print at Check-out
Promotion between 1-1 and 1-24

Ragu Pasta Sauce:
Buy 3 Ragu Pasta Sauces and get $2.00 off your next order
Catalina Coupon will print at Check-out
Promotion between 1-5 and 1-21

Buy South Beach Living Fiber Fit Bars, Protein Fit Bars, or 100 Calories Snack Bars:
Buy (2) and get $1.50 OYNO
Buy (3) and get $3.00 OYNO
Buy (4) or more and get $4.00 OYNO
Catalina Coupon will print at Check-out
Promotion between 1-1 and 1-24

Kraft Products:
Buy 5 Kraft cheese & dairy products between 1/1/10 & 1/24/10.
Buy 5 or more & get a $5 coupon off a future shopping order.
All items must be purchased in one shopping order. Limited to product in stock. No cash back. Offer expires 1/24/2010

Choose from the following cheese items (6 oz or larger only unless otherwise specified):

Kraft Singles
Kraft Parmasan Cheese
Kraft Natural cheese (chunks, shredded, crumbles(5oz), sticks and cubes.
Kraft String-ums cheese
Kraft Cracker Cuts Cheese
Kraft Deli Deluxe Cheese Slices
Philadelphia ready-to-eat Cheesecake filling
Philadelphia Cream Cheese
Velveeta Cheese product
Cracker Barrel Cheese
Cheese Whiz process cheese
Brakstone's Sour Cream
Breakstone's Cottage Cheese
Knudsen Sour Cream
Knudsen Cottage Cheese

Kellogg's Special K Products:
Buy any 4 participating Kellogg's Special K Products in one transation and get the 5th one FREE. These products are on sale this week for $2.49 ea.

Promotion between 1-6 and 1-26

Participating products:
8 oz. Special K Crackers
12-14 oz. Special K Cereal
19.5 oz. Special K Granola Cereal
3.8-4.86oz. Special K Bars

Ground Round Super Deal

2010-01-06T22:01:00.000-08:00

If you have a Safeway near by, this is the week to stock up on Ground Beef. Safeway has their bottom round roast on sale for 1.99#, which you can call ahead and ask the butcher to grind for you. Buy 26# ( and either ask them to prepackage it into whatever size packages you need, or bring them home and put them in zip lock bags), the total on 26# would be $52.00, then use the 10/50 coupon from the newspaper ( in Clark County, The Columbian had it in it on Tuesday 1/5) to get your very lean, very good, ground round for a total of $1.61#!! That is a good deal!

New Year Thoughts for Wives

2010-01-04T15:34:00.000-08:00

Here's a little interesting article to ponder:

HOW TO BE A GOOD WIFE
Home Economics High School Text Book, 1954

Have dinner ready. Plan ahead, even the night before, to have a delicious meal, on time. This is a way of letting him know that you have been thinking about him and are concerned about his needs. Most men are hungry when they come home and the prospect of a good meal are part of the warm welcome needed.

Prepare yourself. Take 15 minutes to rest so that you’ll be refreshed when he arrives. Touch up your makeup, put a ribbon in your hair and be fresh-looking. He has just been with a lot of work-weary people. Be a little gay and a little more interesting. His boring day may need a lift.

Clear away the clutter. Make one last trip through the main part of the home just before your husband arrives, gather up schoolbooks, toys, paper, etc. Then run a dust cloth over the tables. Your husband will feel he has reached a haven of rest and order, and it will give you a lift, too.

Prepare the children. Take a few minutes to wash the children’s hands and faces (if they are small), comb their hair, and if necessary change their clothes. They are little treasures and he would like to see them playing the part.

Minimize all noise. At the time of his arrival, eliminate all noise of the washer, dryer, dishwasher, or vacuum. Try to encourage the children to be quiet. Be happy to see him. Greet him with a warm smile and be glad he is home.

Some don’ts: Don’t greet him with problems or complaints. Don’t complain if he is late for dinner. Count this as minor compared with what he might have gone through that day. Make him comfortable. Have him lean back in a comfortable chair or suggest he lie down in the bedroom. Have a cool or warm drink ready for him. Arrange his pillow and offer to take off his shoes. Speak in a low, soft, soothing and pleasant voice. Allow him to relax and unwind.

Listen to him. You may have a dozen things to tell him, but the moment of his arrival is not the time. Let him talk first.

Make the evening his. Never complain if he does not take you out to dinner or to other places of entertainment. Instead, try to understand his world of strain and pressure, his need to be home and relax.

The Goal: Try to make your home a place of peace and order where your husband can renew himself in body and spirit.

This article was read the other day at a wedding shower I attended, and of course, it filled the room with laughter. When all was said and done, I spent some time thinking about it and found that maybe this is what we are lacking! Go back and reread this article, thinking of how much kindness this wife was showing to her husband, and then compare it to your normal activities when your husband comes home. Which do you think he would prefer?

Now, I'm not really suggesting that this should be your exact goal for 2010, but really, couldn't we all find room to improve to show more love and kindness to our men? It really is sort of sad to think of the new attitude that is the normal; kindness is abnormal and a man isn't deserving of it, we should be served, not serving, and that we shouldn't ever have to go out of our way for our man. I guess I have to be honest and say I disagree with all of it!

Instead, I think that it would do me good to remember to treat my husband with a little more kindness, to make him feel special when he comes in the door, to wait till after he has unwound to hear the days problems, to be thoughtful and plan a dinner that would be ready to eat, to not expect him to come home and begin cleaning when he gets done with dinner, to teach my children to treat him with love and respect and do a little extra something special for him.

Outdated, probably, but upon a little research, I find that the divorce rate was less than half in 1954 than it was in 2009. I'd prefer to see the earlier statistics. Plus, life has taught me a few hard lessons, but from them I have learned that ALL human beings like to be treated kindly, shown a little extra attention, be served, listened to, and loved. Life has also taught me that MOST human beings, upon treated that way, reciprocate and suddenly I have found upon examination that my husband treats me just about as well as that wife in the article above treated her husband, that children who are treated with respect tend to treat others with respect, and friends who are loved, love in return.

So, instead of just laughing at the article, lets give it a try in our own way, and then we can smile as the world complains of such miserable people in this world when we realize that we have found a wonderful group of people to share our lives with.

Give it a try... I think it is contagious!

Old Navy Coupon

2009-12-31T09:14:00.000-08:00

We're really enjoying these weeks of 'vacation', reading, playing games, watching the snow, etc. Yesterday we did a little bumming, hitting Old Navy on the way home. If you go here and sign up for their email alerts you'll receive a coupon for $10.00 /$50.00. Combine that with the sales of 60% off or their clearance you can do quite well. (Not as well as what is to come, but then you'll have to deal with huge crowds and less selection. Take your pick! :) )

Free Breakfast at IKEA

2009-12-24T08:50:00.001-08:00

From Dec. 26th through Jan.3rd IKEA is offering a free breakfast until 11a.m. each day.
What a way to start the day!
Go here to see the details and a list of some super deals each day until the 3rd.

I'll Wish You All a Merry Christmas

2009-12-21T23:26:00.000-08:00

I know it's still a few days till Christmas, but I can see how these past days went flying by and also see how the hours on the calendar are pretty well jam packed from now through... hmmm. next year! Tomorrow ( Lord willing ) I get to go to Seattle to pick up my sister and see my dear mother in law. ( Her cancer is back and quite aggressive so I am happy to be able to bring the younger children there to see grandma while she is still herself!)

Thank you all for coming by and checking in, for sending in the deals, and for hanging out with us frugal friends! Your company has been greatly appreciated!

My prayer for all of you is that you can enjoy the next couple of weeks with family and friends, but mostly that you will take the time to Be Still before the Almighty, and know that He IS GOD! What a blessing we have been given, be sure to take advantage of THIS free gift! Hmm.. as I type I realize what a coincidence... speaking of free things... wonder if this one would pass around blogsphere by the 10's of thousands and how many are bending their knees and hearts and receiving the gift that has been given! The forgiveness of all of our sins, thanks to the Christ-child, coming to earth, born in a stable, walked as man, and finally, accepted the punishment of God Almighty for you and for me! What a wonderful, unspeakable offer He gives to all who will believe!

His promise is sure... (here's the place to 'sign up') Come unto ME, and I will GIVE you rest.
With thanks and praise to Him who has redeemed us, From our family to yours, we wish you all a Blessed Christmas. Most likely there will be very few posts till next year.

Christmas Day Brunch Ideas

2009-12-21T21:45:00.000-08:00

We grew up doing all of our Christmas activities on Christmas Eve. When Christmas Day rolled around, it was like any other day, no special meals, no company, no... nothing. It really was a lonely day. Not sure why it happened that way but... oh well. Today is here.

We have chosen to try to keep the day as stress free as possible even though often we have a houseful. One thing that has helped me to be less stressed is to have a brunch instead of a 'Christmas Dinner'. I find that if we say brunch, no one knows quite what to expect, I'm free to make what I want, and if at the last minute something doesn't turn out, or there isn't time to make something... no one knows the difference!!

Often we have others over and they will ask what they can bring. I try to give them a few choices and then just mark what ever they have chosen to bring off my list of things to do.

Many times we have similar dishes, sort of our tradition, that my dear husband and children ask for. This year our menu looks like this:

Turkey Breast
Apple glazed Meat Mixture ( as we call it - recipe below)
Chili/ Bacon Egg Bake ( a new one for us)
7 Layer Salad
Fruit Tray ( Oranges, Pomegranates, Asian Pears)
Swedish Limpa Bread
Finnish Nisu ( a sweet bread)

Homemade Apple Cider
Orange Juice
Coffee
Tea

Followed by: Cranberry Orange Cake with warm butter sauce
Peppermint Ice Cream with Hot Fudge Topping

Recipes:
Apple Glazed Meat Mixture
8-10 Pork Sausage Links
3/4 lbs. cooked kielbasa sausage (cut into slices)
1/4 cup apple jelly
1/4 cup apple juice
2 T. maple flavored syrup
6 oz Canadian bacon, sliced or chunked

In skillet, combine sausage links, kielbasa and apple juice. Bring to a boil. Cover and cook over med heat about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to med-low and continue to cook 15 minutes until sausage is cooked. Remove Kielbasa. Continue cooking until sausage is browned ( about 2 minutes) Remove sausage from skillet. Reserve 2 T. drippings. Stir apple jelly and syrup into drippings in skillet. Add Canadian bacon. Cook over med. heat until thoroughly heated. Add kielbasa and sausage, turning to coat with glaze. Arrange on platter, spoon remaining glaze over top.

:) and of course, there IS a variation to this.
I have used ham instead of the Canadian bacon, added regular bacon, used ready cooked sausages, and maple flavored sausage. This is a favorite with the men at this house!

Free Corn Flakes

2009-12-18T19:24:00.000-08:00

For those with Safeway near by, there is a super good deal going on. Go here to print the high dollar coupon for any Kellogg's cereal, be sure to hit the back button so you can print 2. Then, at Safeway, pick up 8 boxes of Corn Flakes ( on sale for .99 when you buy 4). You'll need to pick up other items to equal about 2.50 since there is overage and they won't give you cash. Be sure to use a doubler. My deal looked like this tonight:

8 boxes Corn Flakes 7.92
1 bag Marshmellows 1.29
1 bag Toll House White Chocolate Chips 1.89

Total: 11.10
- Coupons
2 $5.00/4 Kelloggs from here (pg 12) $10.00
Safeway Doubler 1.00

Total Out of Pocket: .10
Total Savings 29.94 (before club card.. it just looks better! :) )
100% Savings

For more Corn Flakes Coupons go here or here. The deal isn't as good.. you'll have to pay about .25 per box.

Ranch Pretzels

2009-12-18T18:55:00.000-08:00

Here's the recipe Cilla was talking about.. sounds similar to another one I have.. and it's wonderful!

Ranch Pretzels

1 package (20 ounces) large thick pretzels
1 envelope ranch salad dressing mix
3/4 cup canola oil
1-1/2 teaspoons dill weed
1-1/2 teaspoons garlic powder

Break pretzels into bite-size pieces and place in a large bowl.
Combine remaining ingredients; pour over pretzels. Stir to coat.

Pour into an ungreased 15-in. x 10-in. x 1-in. baking pan. Bake at
200° for 1 hour, stirring every 15 minutes. Yield: 12 cups.

Amboy Market

2009-12-17T22:33:00.000-08:00

For those of you living close by, Cilla sent in this little tidbit for us tonight:

Right now at Amboy Market, they have the Snyder Pretzel Sticks (10 oz) bag on sale for $0.50 a bag! This is a great deal, I'm using them to make some ranch pretzels. (Excellent snack idea for stocking stuffers) When I went there tonight, there was quite a few left. They are next to Fran Gillette's cookbook display. I guess they won't be selling/making this particular item anymore(?), hence the sale.

Thanks Cilla.. ( and I asked her for the recipe for the ranch pretzels. If/when I get it, I'll post it here for you all.) I was thinking that these might be good for dipping in white chocolate...mmm.

Not always a Merry Christmas

2009-12-16T13:04:00.000-08:00

I have again been thinking of not only the children who are so excited that Christmas is here, waiting in great anticipation for Christmas programs, grandpa and grandma coming, gifts they will give, gifts they will receive, but also of the 'other' people. Those who have eyes filled with tears and sadness and so many around them are shouting out the greeting of 'Merry Christmas!' There are those all around us. We don't have to look far to see it. I was thinking of writing a post on the subject, but as I got on here to do it, I found that 'Fishmama' at Life as Mom had been thinking on the same lines. She wrote such an excellent post that I'm going to just include the link and close this post with the prayer that if you are enjoying a Merry Christmas season, that you'll stop and reach out to touch those who are hurting, and if you're one of the many hurting, that you'll know that God really does care and that my prayer is that He will, through His Holy Spirit, move someone to be there for you. God bless.
Go here to read her post.

Albertson's Deals 12/16 - 12/23

2009-12-16T12:55:00.000-08:00

Current Catalina Deals/Promotion: The items in green have a link with more info.
-Get a catalina coupon for a FREE Red box movie rental wyb 1 package of Kraft Singles and 2 Cans of Campbells Tomato Soup-Exp. 1/03/10
-Get a catalina coupon for a FREE Red box movie rental wyb 2 Lunchables Lunch Creations with Water, Exp. 12/18/09

Lingo Definitions:
BOGO or B1G1-Buy one get one free
Peelie-Coupons on package
WYB-When you Buy Exp-Expires
MIR-Mail in Rebate
Catalina-Thin paper coupons that print at register
OYNO-On your next order
IP-Internet Printable Coupon

The ad this week is nothing really exciting. We had an awesome week last week and I hope many of you were able to snag the great deals on Progresso soup and the weekly promotion with Pillsbury and General Mills. This week I'll just be highlighting the best deals and not have them broken down by department. The deals this week are pretty typical for December which tends to be a slower month.

Cook's Shank Portion Ham, 99 cents per #, First 1 while supplies last
Russet Potatoes 10# Bag, 99 cents limit 2
Kraft Shredded or Chunk Cheese $1.49
Albertsons Butter $1.69
DelMonte Veggies or Swanson Chicken Broth 2/$1 $1/4 IP for DelMonte

Kraft Philadelphia Cream Cheese $1

Buy 1 Sara Lee Pie at $6.39 and get another pie free, plus 2 Kraft Cool Whips-No limit

Dole Canned Fruit, Select Varieties $1
TreeTop Apple Juice $1.67 $1/2 IP

Kelloggs Cereal $1.67 for every 3 you buy-Rice Krispies, Frosted Flakes, Raisin Bran, Froot Loops, Apple Jacks, Crispix, Corn Pops, Corn Flakes. Various IP's HERE and HERE., or this $5/4 IP-You will have to buy one at full price ($2.67) but it will make each box $0.67 ea! (This coupon is from the Target website but it prints as a manufacturer coupon) Find more info on this deal HERE.

4# Bag Sugar (Shoppers Value) $1.88 ea.
Nestle Morsels $1.88 ea. $0.55/1 IP

Thanks to Jane at AlltogetherBeautiful for putting this ad together for us. Be sure to head here to her site.. where she has a good deal played out for Kellogg's cereal.

Busy Times and Those You Love

2009-12-15T08:32:00.000-08:00

While lying in bed this morning, one of the things on the 'to do' list was a blog post. Not having doing too much shopping (except for the great deal on crackers at Safeway - good through tonight) I didn't have much to post on that. We've been doing some baking, but nothing out of the ordinary. I already posted some money saving ideas... hmm... what to blog about?

Then, I realized that I could blog about exactly what I've been trying to remember, so this blog is for you moms and wives. When life gets busy ( and for many this is a very busy time of year) we somehow seem to forget the most important things. I have been trying to remember that amidst the school, ( with special projects) shopping, baking, colds, company here, company coming, etc. that there still are the people who live in this house, who I can almost forget in the bustle of it all.

So... this is just a little reminder.... your children still need you, still need you to listen to their important parts of their days. Still need you to take the time to read that book, or talk through that math problem with them. Just a few minutes may be all it takes.
I don't know if you're like me or not, but I have too often had the mindset that my dear husband is a grown man... so he can manage this busy time sort of on his own. What a mistake I've made! If you want to really enjoy this holiday time, ( I can't guarantee this, but would almost bet on it) then take a little time EACH DAY to be sure that your honey is a happy man... be it a hot morning cup of coffee, his favorite meal, a back rub.... what ever he'll appreciate most and will feel loved. It's amazing how the male gender works! They ARE the tough guys, the providers, the protectors. Yet, not only my own husband, but from what I've heard and read, most of them have that longing inside just like we do to be loved and cherished!

So... on that note, enjoy this wonderful time of year... but don't forget the greatest earthly blessings God has given you... your own family! God Bless you ( and the efforts you make towards your man!)

Kraft Holiday Rebate

2009-12-10T21:20:00.000-08:00

Remember the Back to School deal from Kraft a few months ago? I liked getting free groceries... and now they are doing it again!

Go here to get the $10.00 rebate coupon.
Then, go to Safeway and buy using their Kraft 'Buy 5 get $5.00 back instantly' deal.
Karrie, at Fistfulofcoupons has this idea:

(Buy 10 Crackers) Wheat Thins, Better Cheddars, Ritz Toasted CHips, Premium Crackers, ect $2.49 ea
-use $1/1 coupons from 11/08 SS, $1/2 printable or $1/2 coupons from Jingle Coupon Booklet
get $10 instant savings by using your club card
Pay $4.49 -$9.90 depending on coupons used
then submit your reciept for the $10 Kraft Rebate
FREE after rebate!

Other items offered on the rebate are:
Nabisco Crackers
Easy Cheese
Planters Nuts

Thanks, Karrie!

Albertson's 12/9 - 12/16

2009-12-09T08:37:00.000-08:00

Have you been to All together Beautiful lately? Jane has 'upped' her site to include Walgreens, Fred Meyer, and Alice.com deals. Be sure to go here to follow all these great buys! Thank you Jane for all your hard work!

Current Catalina Deals/Promotion:
-Get a catalina coupon for a FREE Red box movie rental wyb 1 package of Kraft Singles and 2 Cans of Campbells Tomato Soup-Exp. 1/03/10
-Get a catalina coupon for a FREE Red box movie rental wyb 2 Lunchables Lunch Creations with Water, Exp. 12/18/09

Lingo Definitions:
BOGO or B1G1-Buy one get one free
Peelie-Coupons on package
WYB-When you Buy Exp-Expires
MIR-Mail in Rebate
Catalina-Thin paper coupons that print at register
OYNO-On your next order IP-Internet Printable Coupon

Twice the Value Coupons:
There is a rumor that there will be Twice the Value Coupons in Sunday's paper. Keep this in mind when you plan your shopping trip! I would suggest printing your coupons ahead of time just in case they disappear or run out.

Meat:
Fresh Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast or Pork Loin Boneless Top Loin Roast, $1.88 per #
Beef Loin New York Strip Steak or Wild Caught Lobster Tail $4.99 per # (Thursday-Sunday only)

Produce:
Klondike Rose or Gold Dust Potatoes, $2.99 ea, BOGO
Fresh Express Salad Bags, $2.99 ea, BOGO
Red Grapefruit, $0.69 per #
Farmstand 3 Ct. Romaine $2.49

Dairy:
Darigold Sour Cream 99 cents, (see in-store coupon section)
CoffeeMate 32 oz. $2.99
Albertsons Cream Cheese $1

$1 Deals:
Alb. Cream Cheese
Power Bars
Carnation Evap. Milk
Progresso Soup (select varieties) -Also included in this week's promotion-see below $1.10/3 IP
Betty Crocker Cake Mix-Also included in this week's promotion-see below
Alb. 6 oz Olives
Sobe Lifewater
Arrowhead 6 pack Water
7-UP, Sunkist or A&W 2 Liters
Super Chill 2 Liters
Hot Wheels
Holiday Tissue Paper
Candy Canes
Various Movie Theater Size Candies

In-Store Coupons: These are Alb. Coupons, so they can be combined with a Manufacturer Coupon for extra savings.

Darigold 16 oz. Sour Cream 99 cents, limit 2,Combine with $0.30/1 from recent insert
Tropicana Pure or Pure Premium Juice $2.39 limit 2

Tillamook Chunk Cheese 2 #, $4.99 limit 2
Sargento Shredded Cheese 5-8 oz. $1.49 limit 4
Alb. Ice Cream $1.99 limit 4
Frito Lay Chips or Cheetos, 99 cents limit 2
Darigold Butter 1# Quarters $1.79 limit 2, Combine with $0.30/1 from recent insert

Other:
Chex Cereal, $1.50 ea for every 3 you buy (individual price $2.50) $1/2 IP
Wish Bone Dressing $1.99 $0.75/1 IP
Campbell's Cream of Mushroom or Chicken Soup $0.79 ea $1/4 IP
Bird's Eye SteamFresh Meals $6.99 ea $1.50/1 IP
M&M's 9.9-12.6 oz, $2.49 $1/2 IP

Betty Crocker/Pillsbury/General Mills Promotion: Save $5 onyo when you spend $15 on participating products.
Click HERE to see the complete list of items included and the coupon match-ups.

Albertsons General Mills Promo

Thanks Hot Coupon World for the help in Compiling this list!

Buy $15, Save $5 off your next shopping trip! WYB $15 in participating products in a single transaction using your Preferred Card. Coupon will print at checkout. Limit 1 offer per customer. See coupon for exclusionss and limitations. See store for details. Minimum purchase requirement is calculated after manufacturer's coupons.

69¢
Green Giant Canned Vegetables 11-15.25oz

10/$10
Betty Crocker Supermoist Cake Mix 18-19.5oz
Green Giant Vegetables in Sauce 10oz Box frozen $0.50/2 IP

Select Progresso Soup $1.10/3 IP

$1.39
Progresso Soup Traditional High Fiber, Light, Rich & Hearty or Reduced Sodium 18.5-19oz

$1.49

Betty Crocker Frosting 12-16 oz. $0.50/1 IP

$1.69
Betty Crocker Cookie Pouches 17.5oz $0.40/1 IP
Bisquick Biscuit Mix 20oz $0.60/1 IP
Bugles 7.5oz
Cheerios Snack Mix 7.5-8oz
Chex Mix 8-8.75oz $0.50/1 IP
Gold Medal Flour 4.25-5lb Bag $0.50/1 IP
Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls 12.4-13.9oz $.40/2 IP
Pillsbury Crescent Rolls 8oz $0.50/2 IP
Pillsbury Grands! Biscuits 16.3oz $0.40/2 IP

$1.99
Betty Crocker Premium Brownies 19.5-22.5oz
Betty Crocker Muffin Mix 15.2-19.6oz
Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers 12oz, In Sauce, frozen

$2.49

General Mills Cereal $1/2 or $0.55/1 IP for GM Cereals

Cheerios 8.9oz
Cinnamon Toast Crunch 12.8oz
Cocoa Puffs 11.8oz
Kix 8.7oz
Trix 10.7oz

General Mills Granola or Snack Bars 5-8.9oz
Old El Paso Stand "N Stuff Dinner Kit
Pillsbury Cookie Dough $1/2 IP

Pillsbury Pie Crust $0.50/2 IP

Pillsbury Big Crescent or Flaky Twists

$4.99
Aquafina Water 24-pk/.0.5 ltr bottles

$5.99
Lipton Iced Tea 12-pk/0.5 ltr bottles or 6-pk/16oz glass bottles
Starbucks Frappuccino 4-pk/9.5oz bottles

Fred Meyer One Day Sale....

2009-12-04T10:03:00.000-08:00

Fred Meyer Ad in today's paper : 130 of your Kellogg's and Keebler favorites 1/2 price from regular prices. 1 Day Only, Friday December 4th. (I don't know how good of a deal this is, but it might be worth it with manu coupons too.)

They also have 3 coupons on the back of today's front page that are good for Fri., Sat, and Sun.

Banquet Pot Pies 5/1.00 (limit 5)
Nalley Chili 3/1.00 (limit 3)
Hershey's Holiday Miniatures or Nestle Jingles 2.38 each. (limit 2)

Free Photo Cards

2009-12-04T08:20:00.000-08:00

It looks like the free photo cards are still around. If you haven't gotten yours yet, take advantage of it while you can.

Go here, to SeeHere and either sign in or sign up for a new account and get 100 cards for just the price of shipping. Be sure to enter promo code * prints * at checkout.

December is Here

2009-12-03T08:22:00.000-08:00

We can't deny it any longer. Christmas is just around the corner and for many people this year, that is adding stress to their lives and their budgets. Wait! lets rethink things and get them in proper perspective!

What IS Christmas really about? It's the birth of Our Savior, right? The day we set aside to celebrate the most wonderful gift given to mankind by the Almighty Father, Creator of heaven and earth. With that in mind, maybe we can change our focus. He gave US a gift. A great gift, but not one that came wrapped in tissue with ribbons and bows. Rather, it's a gift of forgiveness and love, and still today His gift comes to us, wrapped in that same love. He shared that gift with everyone, and He allows us to feel it through the love of others as they share HIS love with US! Let's consider how we can show His love to others and that isn't just those who are close to us who we know and love. How about that lonely neighbor? The homeless family downtown? The old man in the nursing home who hasn't had company in a year? Isn't THAT what God's love encourages us to do? To share with others so that our lives will give glory to God.

Children loved to be involved in baking, art projects, caroling nights, delivering gifts or goodies, even if all of the these are done to give to 'strangers'. There once was a stranger who came here to give us gifts... tell the story and share His compassion with others.

As far as the gift giving and hustle and bustle of home, this Christmas, can we rethink our 'normal'? There is no happiness in giving a gift that has just put you deeper in debt, or caused your child to go without that pair of shoes they need, or has caused an argument between you and your spouse. Our normal (as a country) has often been the bigger the gift, the brighter the bow, the more expensive the price tag, somehow seems to equate how much love is behind it. That is a lie that we've come to believe. What really is love? Isn't it often spelled T I M E? and how much does T I ME cost? It's something that is priceless, that cannot be bought, but is given to us each day in one second increments. Let's use it wisely... and think how we can use it this Christmas to show the love that we want to show to our dear ones.

For children, this Christmas doesn't have to be one full of packages, shopping, and the 'best' that is advertised. How about deciding on that one gift for each child ( and can you find it used? Craigslist? SecondHand stores? Advertise on Freecycle) and then explain to your child that you'll be 'doing' fun things together this year instead of having a lot of gifts. What child doesn't enjoy baking cookies? Making hard candy suckers? Decorating? How about starting an advent tradition? Have an evening of playing games by candle light? Are there free activities offered in your area? ( near us is the Journey to Bethlehem (you can go and experience what it was like that night so long ago) and also the Christmas Ships)

Over the years I've collected little children's books about Christmas. The little ones love to have them read to them over and over during the few weeks that they are out each year.

If you can't find anything in your area, how about planning something? We've taken different countries each year and studied how they celebrate this season. (It's more fun to do this with a few families... each family takes one country, ( if you have older kids, let them do their own) and then plan a final 'program night') On that last night, we have supper made with recipes from what they eat in those countries, we often have one or two decorations that they would have, sing their carols, etc. (Want to do something interesting? Celebrate Christmas as they do in Australia!)

We often take the children out for a ride to see the lights. The whole evening is spent enjoying the light displays. At times we've ended up somewhere to have an ice cream cone, ( or we've packed out own in a cooler and made them in the car) or sipped a hot chocolate at some over look spot.

How about your own sing a long? A group of teens would love a place to gather... provide the cookies and juice, a pile of song sheets, and for later, a stack of games. They'll appreciate it and you'll enjoy getting to know these young adults.

Younger children think it so special to have a night out with just Dad. If you're going to do some shopping, make it a special time, not a time of rushing and hurry. Talk about it, plan it, make it happen, and celebrate the time that you have to spend together.

We've often done a 'secret pal' for the weeks in December. Everyone draws a name and for that week, we have a secret pal that we are doing things for. It's so fun to watch the delight in little sisters eye if she could sneak up and make a bed, straighten a room, leave a note, do a chore, etc. It's good for the children to have time to think of others, instead of just being focused on the ME.

For older kids, again, it's called T I M E. Plan a time to invite their friends over doing the activity of your teens choice. Stay up late with them just sipping hot cider and playing a game or visiting. Most teens like the quiet of Christmas time. It seems that there is something cozy about it that draws the heart closer to home, even if they are normally the type to have to be busy all the time.

For yourself and spouse... plan some quiet times at home, or a walk in the quiet falling snowflakes... ( well... in the drizzle if you're in NW Washington) or maybe this is the time to search for coupons and splurge with a dinner out. Even a dinner out can be done so very frugally with proper planning. We've had a tradition over the years of 'tea time' where we just send everyone to bed early with books, toys, whatever, and we find a quiet spot to enjoy our tea and each others company. In the busyness that just seems to come with Christmas, we need to relax and enjoy the love of each other.

How about planning ( that seems to be the key in saving money - no matter what area you talk about! Plan!) some time where you or your spouse can just do exactly what they want to do? Read a book, a hot bath? time with a friend? Talk to your spouse and ask them what would be special to them, then make it happen.

These are just a few ideas of how we can enjoy this season without spending money, but I know there are hundreds more out there. How about sharing them with us?

For more ideas, go to lifeasmom to see her post and a whole list of other blogs with frugal Christmas gift giving ideas.

Sharing is Caring

2009-12-02T22:10:00.001-08:00

Some ladies of the Hockinson Apostolic Lutheran Church have put together something special tomorrow. ( Thursday)

I stopped by this afternoon and worked for a while setting up.. what is happening is family, friends and neighbors have donated items for the Sharing is Caring day. The basement is FULL... it's a huge basement and there isn't hardly any room left!

What is that for you? You, your family, friends, and neighbors are all welcome to come and help yourself to whatever you find that you can use. There are tables upon tables of clothes ( all sorted by size/sex) plus toys, books, household items, decorations, and much more.

Tomorrow from 9 - 6 everyone is welcome to come 'shop' ( without money!) and then enjoy some goodies as you find time to visit.

Please be sure to tell anyone you know who would be interested. There is SO much stuff.. much of it is high quality, name brand, clothes.

The church address is following and is very easy to find whether you are coming from Battle Ground or Brush Prairie.
16108 NE 192nd Avenue (street address)
Brush Prairie, WA 9860

Kohl's Clearance Sale

2009-12-02T08:42:00.001-08:00

If you're heading out today and will be near a Kohls, it would pay to stop in and look around. Christy, from The Bargain Jargon was there last night and found many womans clothing items on sale for 90% off! She said there were some mens items also. Clearance prices are for their online store, too, so be sure to check that out ( although I only see up to 80% off) If you have a Kohls card, you can save an additional 15% by using the code HOLIDAYKC.
Thanks, Christy

Albertson's Deals 12/2-12/8

2009-12-02T08:35:00.000-08:00

Current Catalina Deals/Promotion:
-Get a catalina coupon for a FREE Red box movie rental wyb 1 package of Kraft Singles and 2 Cans of Campbells Tomato Soup-Exp. 1/03/10
-Get a catalina coupon for a FREE Red box movie rental wyb 2 Lunchables Lunch Creations with Water, Exp. 12/18/09

Lingo Definitions:
BOGO or B1G1-Buy one get one free
Peelie-Coupons on package
WYB-When you Buy Exp-Expires
MIR-Mail in Rebate
Catalina-Thin paper coupons that print at register
OYNO-On your next order IP-Internet Printable Coupon

Meat:
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, $1.79 per #, frozen in 3# bags (In-Store Coupon)
BOGO FREE Meat Sale

Produce:
California Navel Oranges, Braburn apples, Camo Apples or Gala Apples 68 cents per #
Roma Tomatoes $1 per #
Hass Avocados $1 ea.
Red or Green Leaf Lettuce $1 ea.
Bunch of Broccoli $1 per #
Baby Cut Carrots 1 # bag $1
2 ct. Green Onions or 16 oz. Radishes $1
Yellow Onions 3# Bag $1
Cucumbers 69 cents per #
Red Grapefruit 69 cents per #
Anjou, Red Anjou or Bosc Pears, $1.29 per #

Dairy:
Coffee Mate $1.69, Use this $1/1 Printable

$1 Deals:
Hamburger and Tuna Helper
Bumblebee Solid White Tuna

In-Ad coupons:
Nestle Morsels Chips $1.69 Use this $1/1 coupon, limit 3
Shoppers Value Mac and Cheese 29 cents ea, limit 8
Yoplait Yogurt, 39 cents ea, limit 9
Dr. Pepper 12 pack, $2.99, limit 4
Freschetta Pizza $3.99, limit 8
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, $1.79 per #, frozen in 3# bags
Extra Jumbo Shrimp $5.99 per #, frozen in 2# bags. limit 2

Other:
Lean Pockets $1.88 ea. Selected Varieties

Coca-Cola, Pepsi and 7-UP soft drink Buy 3 and Get $1 off instantly, Buy 6 Get $2 off instantly, Buy 9 Get $3 off Instantl.
______________________________________
Mix and Match Sale: Thanks Frugal Chic Living for this deals list on the mix and match sale!
All items are $1.50 for every 4 you buy...

Banana Nut Cheerios, $1.50 each
-$1.00 off Printable Coupon (FF Link)
=$0.50

Honey Nut Cheerios or Cookie Crisp, $1.50
-$1.00/2 General Mills Cereals Printable (or from 11/8 SmartSource)
=$2.00 for 2 boxes ($1.00 each)

Cocoa Puffs, $1.50
-$0.75 off Printable Coupon
=$0.75

Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks, $1.50
-$0.50/2 Printable Coupon
=$2.50 for 2 boxes ($1.25 each)
__________________________________________

Pg&E Promotion:
Buy $20 worth of participating products and get $5 off your next purchase and 5 FREE Redbox Movie Rentals. Click HERE for info from Frugal Chic Living.

Thank you to Jane for compiling all these for us. Be sure to go to her blog here, and see the mid week deals from Walgreens.

Free Shipping

2009-12-01T08:13:00.000-08:00

So many on line stores are offering free shipping right now. Two of my favorites are LL Bean and Lands End. I like their products but more than that, I love their customer service and guarantees. LL Bean offers a life time guarantee on everything they sell, and I know from experience that they stand behind that. Guaranteed.

When our older boys were small, they were in need of new pajamas, I decided to make them, but upon figuring the cost of material, thread, rib knit for the necklines, etc., the price was very close to what a pair would cost at Lands End. I purchased 2 pair from there and have since been doing an experiment just for fun. I've had 4 boys wear those pajamas, 2 nephews, and now 1 grand nephew! 7 boys in a pair of pjs, and still no rips, tears or blown out knees. My sewing job certainly wouldn't have stood up like that!

Go here to see what Lands End has to offer this year and here for LL Bean.

Rockport Shoes

2009-12-01T08:06:00.000-08:00

If you're a Rockport Shoe fan, here's a great deal. 6pm.com has a deal, today only ( Tuesday) that has many styles and sizes of mens and womans shoes for prices as low as $14.95 plus $6.95 shipping.

Go here to see the selection.

Cyber Monday

2009-11-30T08:19:00.000-08:00

For those of you who haven't heard of Cyber Monday before, it's the black Friday of the internet. Today is the day! Check out all your favorite stores on line to see what deals they have. It may be a way to get your shopping done without ever having to change out of your pajamas, and still get all the good deals! Here are a few to start with:

Kohls
Christian Book
Target
overstock.com
Aeropostale

Or, better yet, (thanks, Sarah, for the tip!) is to go here to dealnews.com or here, to dealcatcher, and sign up for their RSS feed. They will search out all the deals and they will send them right to your inbox.

After Thanksgiving Deals

2009-11-28T11:14:00.000-08:00

Just yesterday I was asked for tips on making the budget stretch. I'm so happy to see so many wives trying to stretch the budget for their families. One step at a time, it can be done!

Today, my suggestion would be to check out the deals for the 'leftovers' from Thanksgiving. Yesterday I bought 3 turkeys at .36#. As far as I know, there is NEVER meat, of any kind, for that price. I've got 2 in the freezer now and one in the oven. The one I'm baking, I plan to cut up, putting the whole breasts in the freezer for suppers, and cutting up all the rest of the meat into smaller packages, ready for lunch meat, casseroles, enchiladas, etc. I'll boil up the carcass and put the broth in the freezer ready for a big pot of soup on a snowy day. ( should we be so blessed...)

Watch for cranberries, canned or fresh sweet potatoes, rolls ( which freeze well!) pumpkin ( great for pancakes, too!) stuffing mix. Time to stock up on all of these. Figure out how much of each you could use in the next 6 months and buy that amount.

Cracker Deals

2009-11-28T11:12:00.001-08:00

Use the Coupons.com selector on the side bar of Prime on a Dime, and find coupons for $1.50/1 for Keebler Crackers, and Kelloggs All Bran Crackers. Save these coupons and watch for sales, (which are bound to come... crackers always are on sale before Christmas) pair them up with deals and maybe some doubles and you'll have some great prices for crackers for your Holiday festivities.

Free Batteries

2009-11-28T11:06:00.000-08:00

Who can't use batteries? Even better, who can't use FREE batteries! With Christmas coming, often that means batteries are needed for toys, electronics, etc. Here's a way to get them all free! Check this out!

Buy a 20 pack of Duracell AA or AAA batteries for $12.99
Sign up ( or use your rewards card) for Staples reward program and receive a $12.99 rebate.
Total price................ Free! Nada!

Better yet... you can do this transaction 2 times per week between now and Dec. 26, 2009.
You could have quite a stash!
Go here to see the full details.

1/2 priced Swagbucks

2009-11-25T18:40:00.000-08:00

Looks like Swagbucks has some sales coming up. Buy gift cards at 1/2 price. Be sure to save your bucks and start checking on the swag site beginning Friday.

Thanks, Saving Money Plan!

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T10:52:00.000-08:00

There are no ads this week, and remember, there won't be any coupons in Sunday's paper.
Have a Blessed Thanksgiving! See you next week.. to find some deals for Christmas, some frugal gift ideas, and some fun Christmas projects!

Timberdoodle

2009-11-24T08:47:00.001-08:00

Maybe some of you have never heard of Timberdoodle, a homeschool catalog company located in Shelton, Wa. We've bought from them for many years and have always loved their service and their unique products, which is not limited to curriculum. They find really fun toys and games and excellent books.

They are having a 5 day sale starting now, and even though the prices aren't 'free', I decided to blog about it just to make you aware of the company. Go here to see their 5 day sale specials and here to their home page.

One of our favorite set of books is available here. Mr. Pipes is about a brother and sister who meet Mr. Pipes while traveling with their mom. He ends up befriending them and teaching them ( through really fun adventures) all about music history. Each book takes on a different type/time/place of musicians. We read them aloud last year and it there just wasn't enough time in a day to read them. Great for kids ages 6-13. I believe all the books are family friendly, I've never had reason to question otherwise.

Another of our favorites which is really hard to find are the Mind Benders books. These are logic puzzles, in levels from age 4 to some real stumpers. My children and I love these puzzles. There's nothing like snuggling on the couch and trying to figure these out. This is a sample page from the beginners book - geared at 4-5 year olds. Beleive me, they get MUCH harder.

Almost Free Photo Calendar

2009-11-24T08:40:00.000-08:00

If you dare put your name on Vista Prints email list ( they are forever sending out 'free' deals.. I suppose you could just unsubscribe and solve the problem) there is a pretty good deal today.

Go here to see the details of getting a full size photo calendar for just $4.99. ( the calendar is free, the photo storage fee to upload the photos is 4.99. Once this is paid, you can use the photos for other items you may purchase ( or get free) from them.)

What can a Mom do but smile?

2009-11-24T08:25:00.000-08:00

Our 6 year old woke up at 3:30 this morning with pain in her hand caused by a newly acquired sliver. So... it was a little surgery time to get the painful thing out. It was a good time to share a little bit about life - how something so tiny as a sliver can make your whole hand and arm ache, just like sin. Sin can slip into our lives almost unnoticed, but left there, unattended, it can infect the whole body, causing pain and (no pun intended) sleepless nights. We finally were able to get the invader out after many tears, at which time I began to quit being Dr. and begin being mom, comforting her, tucking her back in, stroking her head and kissing her.

Suddenly, in the midst of it all my brain went from fuzz to reality... what was I feeling? Upon closer examination, I realized that what was subconsciously registering in my brain was truth! We'd been here before with this girl... 3years ago... and the effects of that barber job had just about finally grown out! And now... when I turned the light up brighter, THIS is what I saw:

With this length in the back,

there really is quite a difference!
Whats a mom to do? I am saying Grrrrrrrrrrr to myself, thats for sure! Guess it's one more thing to write in a baby book, and for Christmas I'm sure some little clippies will be welcome. We're gonna need them . .. for another 3 years! Keep your scissors up high, mom, keep 'em up high!

Free I Can't Believe it's Not Butter

2009-11-20T08:30:00.000-08:00

Baking coming up? Unless you are a die hard 'real butter only' person, here's a deal for you.

Fred Meyers has 'I Can't Believe it's not Butter' on sale for $1.96 box, go here to print a coupon for 1.00 off ( allowing you to print 5!). If you buy 3 butters, you get a catalina back for $2.00! Making 2 of those butters free!

The catalina is also working at Safeway and can be applied to your Home for the Holidays promotion!

$15.00 of Arm & Hammer Coupons

2009-11-19T16:14:00.000-08:00

Go here to get a batch of Arm & Hammer Coupons. Be sure to have your printer ready as once you register, they are there to print.

.75/1 Shower Cleaner
.75/1 Bathroom Cleaner
1.00/1 Toothpaste
1.00/1 Cat litter
1.00/1 Dryer Cloths
1.00/1 Whitening Booster
1.00/1 Cat Litter Deodorizer
1.00/2 Laundry Detergent or Fabric Softener

Alice.Com

2009-11-19T14:08:00.001-08:00

Want to try alice? How about trying for free? Go here to Alltogetherbeautiful where Jane is giving away 1 $20.00 gift card for Alice.com.

I can see that this would be a handy service... products delivered to your door, when you need them, and free shipping... always! I placed my first order the other night using my $5.00 gift card that I got for 3 Swagbucks. I have 5 items coming for a grand total of .03!

I see that for those of you who live in areas that the stores don't offer the great deals that we get here in the West ( like in Northern Michigan), this would be a great service and the prices are really quite good. They even have their own coupons!

Free Photo cards

2009-11-19T14:05:00.000-08:00

Remember I mentioned the free photo cards earlier this week? Well, Moneysavingmom now has a post ( here) about how to get not only 50 cards free, but 100! And to think that there was a day when I thought that a .25 off coupon was a great deal! Be sure to check it out soon and start snapping pictures... this deal ends Nov. 30th.

Albertson's Deals 11/18 - 11/25

2009-11-18T12:29:00.000-08:00

This weeks' Ad is extra long because of the Holiday. It will run from November 18-26 and my store's ad states that they will be open until 4 pm on Thanksgiving Day.

Current Catalina Deals/Promotion: The items in green have a link with more info.

Money Back on Fleishmans Yeast in strip or jar, exp 11-29-09-priced at $1.29 per strip this week- (Use the $0.50/1 or the $0.40/1 from the recent SS insert) =$0.29 each after $0.50/1 coupon and catalina.

Starbucks Coffee (on sale this week $5.99--see below for coupons) $2 OYNO wyb 2 bags of Starbucks coffee thru 12/1

FREE Red Box Movie Rental wyb 2 Orville Redenbacher's popcorn boxes priced at $1.69 this week.

Lingo Definitions:
BOGO or B1G1-Buy one get one free
Peelie-Coupons on package WYB-When you Buy Exp-Expires
MIR-Mail in Rebate
Catalina-Thin paper coupons that print at register
OYNO-On your next order IP-Internet Printable Coupon

Meat:
::Village Market Frozen Turkey $0.27 per # (16 pounds or more) with a $25 purchase. Less tha 16 pounds the price is $0.37 per #. Normal Price is $1.29 per #
:: Hormel Spiral Sliced Ham (Whole or Half) $1.99 per #
::Cook's Ham Shank Portion Bone-In $1.29 per #

Produce:
::10# Bag of Potatoes $0.95, limit 2
::Fresh Celery 2/$1
::Golden Delicious, granny smith or red rome apples $0.99 per #
::Jumbo Yams $0.69 per #
::16 oz. Frozen Alb. Veggies $1

In-Store Coupons: These are Alb. Coupons, so they can be combined with manufacturer coupons
::Kraft Mayo or Miracle Whip, $1.99 limit 1
::Kraft Phil. Cream Cheese $0.88 ea limit 2
::Maxwell House Coffee 33-34.5 oz. $4.99 limit 4, Combine with $1/2 IP
::Gillette Foamy Shave gel 11 oz. $0.79, Combine with $0.55/1 from 11/1 PG insert
::Homelife Alkaline batteries 30 ct. AA $7.99

Dairy:
::Alb. 16 oz. Butter Quarters $1.69 ea No limit
::Alb. 16 oz. Sour Cream $0.97
::Kraft 5-8 oz. Chunk or Shredded Cheese $1.88 ea, $1/1 or $1/2 from recent inserts
::32 oz. CoffeeMate $2.49, $1.50/2 and $1.00/1 IP
::16 oz. Alb. Half &Half $0.79

Other:
::Sara Lee Pies $6.39 BOGO
::Campbells Gravy$0.47 Use Use this $1/4 IP
::Campbells Creamed Soups $0.79,Use this $1/4 IP
::Starbucks Coffee $5.99, $1/1 from All You Mag, or $1.50/1 from recent inserts, (see catalina at top)
::Alb. Olives 6 oz. $0.97
::Birds Eye Steamfresh Veggies or Rice $0.97, Use $.35/1 coupon from 10/18 SS insert
::Alb. Whipped Topping $0.97
::Mrs. Cubbisons Dressing $1.99, $0.55/1 from recent inserts
::Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice $1.19
::Stove Top Stuffing 6 oz. $0.87
:: Jello 6 oz. $0.87
::Bakers Coconut, baking bars, or dipping choc. 2/$4
::Alb. Graham Cracker Crust 6 oz. $0.97
::8 oz. Cool Whip $0.97
::Carnation Evap Milk $0.97, $0.50/2 IP, or $0.50/2 from recent inserts
::Libby's Pumpkin 15 oz. $0.97
::Pricella Sweet Potatoes, canned $0.97
::Scotties Tissue $1 $1/1 IP=FREE!
::Del Monte Vegetables $0.47 , $1.00/8 from recent insert

Kellogg's Cereal Sale: FREE milk instantly (up to $4) and two FREE individual cereal bowls wyb 4 participating Kellogg's Cereals in a single transaction. Sale priced at 4/$10

Use these 11 IP coupons to combine with this deal!
::17 oz. Frosted Flakes
::12 oz. Rice Krispies
::12.2 oz. Fruit Loops
::12.5 oz. corn Pops
::16.5 oz. Cocoa Krispies
::11.2 oz. Jumbo Krispies

Lookin' good... the week before a holiday is always a good time to stock up on supplies.
Thanks, Jane! Be sure to go to Alltogetherbeautiful to follow up on her latest post!

Down Comforters 73%off

2009-11-18T08:31:00.000-08:00

The deal of the day at Amazon today is on Pike Street Down Comforters. Regular $150.00 today... $39.99! A great price for something to keep you warm all winter long! Mmmm. Sounds good. Go here to see the details. These deals of the day don't last long... so hurry over!

$10/$25 at JC Penny

2009-11-18T08:28:00.000-08:00

Here's a code to get a coupon for $10.00 off a $25.00 purchase at JC Penny. It says on the bottom to share it with friends, so.... here you go, friend!

Christmas Gift Idea - Playdough

2009-11-17T09:17:00.000-08:00

Anna, at Purposely Parenting, has a tried and true recipe for a great batch of playdough here. This is the same recipe we've used for years at our house... the kids love it! It stays soft for a long time as long as it's kept tightly wrapped in plastic.

Do you have any other ideas for either things for kids to do on these rainy days, or inexpensive gift ideas?

We're about to start a project that we did once years ago... as it happens, I'll post some pictures. Seems like old and young alike enjoy this project:

Miniature Home

Take a fairly good size box ( banana box size or a little bigger) and cut it down to about 6 inches tall. This forms your 'outside walls' for your home. From that, begin building your house. Gather all those little things in your drawers, desk, and wherever that could be used for items in the house. Little pieces of material could be made into a rug, a wall hanging, or used to cover 'furniture' that you make from ????? Cover a small empty spool of thread with a square of colorful calico for a living room or dining room table. Use cardboard to make a couch frame and cover it with some thick corduroy, crochet a little pillow or afghan for on top of it, and find a place for it in the 'house'.

We've spend many a winter evening on this project years ago. It was so fun to watch as the children ( and husband) came up with ideas to add to it. When done for the evening, all the 'little stuff' goes into a plastic ziplock bag set carefully inside the box so it doesn't break anything, then the whole thing slips easily under a bed and is there till next time.

Start gathering your little junk, and keep your eye open for a box. Lets see how you do!

Free Lipton Tea Sample

2009-11-16T19:21:00.001-08:00

Go here for a a free sample of Lipton Green Tea. ( My hot drink of choice so far this fall... mmm)

New Deals Website Crazy with Coupons

2009-11-16T07:31:00.000-08:00

I've mentioned that I'm not going to be searching out all the deals in town and posting them here when there are so many others doing the same thing. I can't stand doing unnecessary work! So, with that said, here is a new blog in the Portland area with all the great deals available here. Go here to read what Sara and Savannah are posting. They have a ton of information!

50 Free Photo Cards

2009-11-16T07:17:00.000-08:00

Christmas is coming, are you going to be getting photos printed to send out? I'm amazed at how many things there are for free, and here is one to take the price off your Christmas cards. Go here to read up how to get 50 photo cards for free! It'd be interesting to see if someone could give all the gifts they usually give, send out cards AND have a Christmas dinner/bakery for free this year! :) Anyone up to a challenge?
Thanks, Freebies4Mom

PineCone

2009-11-16T07:13:00.000-08:00

If you're looking for another way to earn a few dollars here and there, Pinecone Research might be what you're looking for. Every couple weeks they send you a survey which takes anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes to fill out, then, in a few days, you'll receive a check for $3.00 in your mailbox. ( or your paypal account - you choose)

Limit one person per family. $3.00 isn't much, but over time it ads up and you never even have to take your slippers off to earn the money. The great thing is, they have a limited number of openings and right now there ARE openings. Go here to register. If you don't like it, you can cancel at any time.

I've been taking part in these for a few months now and it really is a good company. No frills, no extra surveys, nothing to buy.

BeRuby.com

2009-11-13T11:11:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have signed up here for Swagbucks, there is another similar deal for you! BeRuby. You can set BeRuby up as your homepage, search from there, and everytime you go to Gmail, Facebook, Twitter, or tons of other places, you receive... cash... directly to your paypal account. Plus, you'll receive .10 everyday that you sign in to their account, and they continually have discounts at on line stores, plus more.

As with Swagbucks, if people sign up 'under' you, you receive 1/6 of the cash value that they receive.. forever. ( not up to 100 points!) Plus everyone under them, you get 1/6. I've just signed up recently and it looks like it could be a good way to bring in a little bit more 'egg money' as they used to call it.

Go here to read more about it, here to sign up.

Thanks, MoneySavingMethods

The Christmas Box Book Offer

2009-11-13T08:15:00.000-08:00

Ever read Richard Paul Evans book "The Christmas Box"? It is one of my favorites reminding us of what is really important in life and how the stuff we can so easily be swept into thinking is important is really just nonsense. Well, Paul has a super offer for you today. He is going to sell a box of 20 paperback copies of 'The Christmas Box" for the cost of the shipping - $15.00! Go here to read about it, or here to place your order.

2009-11-12T20:45:00.000-08:00

Free Organic Valley coupons for $10.00 just by signing up. Go here to see the details and fill out the form.

Thanks, Thrify Jenny!

2009-11-12T09:41:00.000-08:00

Current Catalina Deals/Promotion: The items in green have a link with more info.

Krazy Coupon Lady has a list of some great Catalina Promotions going on at Albertsons in the coming weeks. Click HERE for the full list. Thanks Krazy Coupon Lady!

Save $2 on sausage wyb 2 Bertolli Sauces, coupon will print at register, exp. 11-12-09

Money Back on Fleishmans Yeast in strip or jar, exp 11-29-09-priced at $1.29 per strip this week- (Use the $0.50/1 or the $0.40/1 from the recent SS insert) =$0.29 each after $0.50/1 coupon and catalina.

Lingo Definitions:

BOGO or B1G1-Buy one get one free

Peelie-Coupons on package WYB-When you Buy Exp-Expires

MIR-Mail in Rebate

Catalina-Thin paper coupons that print at register

OYNO-On your next order IP-Internet Printable Coupon

Meat:

Albertsons Chuck Cross Rib Roast or Boneless Chuck Shoulder Roast, $1.99 per #

Albertsons Frying Chicken, Drums or Thighs. $0.88 per #

Hormel 10-12 oz. Little Sizzlers Sausage links $1 ea

Jimmy Dean Bacon $2.50

Also see "In-store Coupons" for more deals on Meat

Produce:

California Navel Oranges $0.68 per #

HoneyCrisp Apples $1.99 per # (and so yummy!)

Cucumbers 79 cents ea

Bartlett Pears $0.99 per #

Ocean Spray Cranberries $1.99

Red Grapefruit 89 cents

In-Store Coupons: These are Albertsons coupons, so they can be combined with a manufacturer coupon for more savings.

Albertsons 85/15 Ground Beef $1.79 per #, limit 10#

Ragu Sauce 88 cents ea, limit 4, Use this $1/2 IP, Thanks Kim at Puget Sound Prudence! This prints from Sav a Lot stores, but it is a manufacturer coupon.

Skippy PB 15-16 oz $0.99 ea limit 4, Use the $1/2, $0.72/2 or $0.40/1 from 10-4 insert

Folgers Coffee 27-33.9 oz. $4.99 limit 2 (also a part of this weeks' promotion), Use the $1/1 from 11-8 insert

Land o Lakes Butter 1 # or Butter/Canola oil spread $1.79 limit 2, Use the $1/2 from 10-18, or the $0.50/1 from the 11-1 insert

Pork Loin Babyback Ribs $2.99 per # limit 10#

Dairy:
Tillamook Icecream 2/$6

Tillamook Yogurt 20/$10

32 oz. Darigold Half & Half $2

Deal: Buy one Sara Lee pie and get another pie and 2 Breyers 1.5 qt icecreams free, no limit! Use this $1/2 IP for Breyers. (This prints from Sav a Lot stores, but it is a manufacturer coupon) Thanks Kim at Puget Sound Prudence! Use this $1/1 Printable that may work for the Sara lee

Albertsons 6-8 oz. shredded, chunk or cream cheese, $1 ea

Other:

Chex Cereal $1.50 ea, Use the $1/2 from recent inserts=$1 ea wyb 2

Albertsons Canned Veggies $0.69, select varieties

3 Ct. Pop Secret Popcorn $1

13 oz. Palmolive Dish Soap $1

Pepsi and Coke 2 Liters $1

Angel Soft and Sparkly Promotion: Buy 2 items at 2/$10 and receive a $3 instant savings. Items include Sparkle 6-8 ct Paper towel, Angel Soft 24 single roll, 12 dbl roll or, 9 mega roll. Use the Angel Soft $1/1 or $0.50/1 from recent inserts

Extra Promotion this week:

There are many items that are a part of this promotion. One of them is the Folgers Coffee that has an in-store coupon (listed above) with a limit of 2. To see the full list of what is included and coupon match-ups, click HERE. Thanks Hot coupon world.

Thank you, Jane. At alltogetherbeautiful

$10.00 from Coinstar

2009-11-10T07:44:00.000-08:00

Sorry... here is a correction on this post. It was pointed out to me in the comments that you don't get cash back, but a certificate. I am remembering that from last year. When you put your change in, you select if you want cash back or a certificate. If you choose the certificate, there is no charge for the exchange. You get a printed certificate right away for the $40.00, and a mail in for the extra $10.00. SO!.... IF you are going to be shopping at one of the participating stores ( JC Pennys, Lowes, Amazon for sure.. plus more but there is no list on their website) then this is still well worth it. Take your change in, get a ecertificate, then send in for the extra $10.00.

If you've got a big bucket of change sitting in your room, now is the time to cash it in. Go to any Coinstar machine ( find locations, here) and cash in your change. If you have at least $40.00 worth of change, you'll get your $40.00 back in cash, plus a certificate for $10.00 for many different stores you shop at all the time. ( Lowes, JC Penny, Amazon and more) Go here for the details. I did this last year and got an extra $20.00 for cashing in the change!

Be Still

2009-11-09T06:14:00.000-08:00

Another week has come. Which also means another week has gone. Where does the time go? It seems to just 'fly by', as the saying goes. Even though often it seems to fly, there are things in life that stay or move so very slowly. When in the middle of grief, problems, troubles, time doesn't always move so quickly.

My thoughts have been turned to those times lately. It is so true that we live in a broken world, with more problems around us then we even recognize. How do we then live? As I've pondered this, one thought continues to be brought to my mind: "Be Still and know that I am God." How can we anchor on this?

It makes no difference what the problem is, if we can turn to the anchor of not only our souls, but the anchor of this entire universe, we can rest and be still. I use the word anchor because of the anchor's natural use. If you're out in a boat, with the wind howling, rain pouring, thunder crashing, waves heaving, your little ship may soon drift off course, run into the dangerous rocks, or be capsized. If we have an anchor to throw overboard, it will fall to the bottom of the lake and take hold. We now have something holding US on course, we are tied to the 'steady', even though the storm continues. If we can think of the words: 'Be still', we'll see that in order to take the time to have thoughts and know that God is truly God, and all that means, we do need to be able to not be fighting the storm. So, throw the anchor of faith in Christ over, and let it take hold. He has promised to be with us through the storm and fire, to carry us through the trials, and has asked us to cast our burdens on Him. Let go of them, ( really, what CAN we do with them ourselves????) and feel that anchor take hold of the solid beneath us. The anchor will hold tight on to 'the solid', we'll feel our boat tugging and pulling on the ropes attached, but it's the anchor holding tight. Not us. Now, be still.

Next? KNOW that I am God! Now, take the time to think what that means? What is is that God is God? What an awesome ( in it's truest and only sense of the word!) thought. God. That is enough right there. God. Creator, Almighty, all powerful, all knowing, the King, the judge, the provider, the healer, the forgiver, the planner, the time keeper..... whatever there is or needs to be, HE is it. Look at your problem. Square in the face. Is it fear? Who is it that holds today? you? me? no. HE does. Is our problem financial? (there is plenty of this problem today) Who is is that really owns everything that not only we have, but that the entire world holds? you? me? no. He does. Is our problem a relationship? Who is it that can change hearts? I have trouble when I try on my own to change my own heart, much less try to change someone else s heart. Yet, God can change both. There really is nothing we can do for our own safety, provision, health. All the efforts we make and think we are doing to make life better for us, can come to naught in an instant. We still should work, take care of ourselves to the best of our ability, but it is God who is over all. He asks us (commands us!) to trust Him.

So, as we start this new week, be encouraged to 'Be Still'. Take some time each day to find a quiet spot, take the love letter from God with you, and read it. He has some reminders in it for you that point out all the places and times He has shown Himself as God. We can feel so helpless trying to steer this boat of life through the storms there are. I find so much hope in reading and seeing all the times God has provided; manna, bread and meat by the mouth of a bird, hail to destroy an enemy much bigger than the believers army, a way of escape through the parting of water, and.... to speak 'be still' and suddenly the raging seas, quieted. That is what we need, to have Christ Himself quiet the storms in our heart. Believe and trust Him. He is faithful. Praying all of you have a good week.

In times like these, you need a Savior, In times like these, you need an anchor,
Be very sure, Be very sure, your anchor holds, and grips the Solid Rock.

This Rock is Jesus, Yes He's the one, This Rock is Jesus, The only One;
Be very sure, Be very sure, your anchor holds and grips the solid rock.

In times like these, you need the Bible, In times like these, oh, be not idle,
Be very sure, Be very sure, your anchor holds, and grips the Solid Rock.

This Rock is Jesus, Yes He's the one, This Rock is Jesus, The only One;
Be very sure, Be very sure, your anchor holds and grips the solid rock.

ToysRus Game Deal

2009-11-09T06:10:00.000-08:00

Wow! Here's a great deal at Toy R Us for some games. 5 games for 4.95! Go here to Abundant Food Savings to read up on the deal!

Whats your favorite store?

2009-11-09T05:58:00.000-08:00

Read what Jane, at All together beautiful, says today about why she has fallen in love with Fred Meyers. Whats your favorite store? and why? Leave us some comments today and let us know where you feel the best deals come from.

Albertson's Doubles

2009-11-09T05:51:00.000-08:00

Be sure to check out the Sunday paper... there were doubles there. :) Have fun... should make for at least 3 more freebies somehow. I haven't checked any coupons yet so have no great ideas for you.. but I know with a double, you can almost always make it free!

Safeway This Week

2009-11-06T08:31:00.000-08:00

Did you get a 10/50 coupon from Tuesday's Oregonian? Hope so, as it looks like there is a pretty good deal going on this week at Safeway.

You need to have your total be $50.00 AFTER you use your manufacturers coupons, but it is before club card savings.

You can also combine the Holiday Baking Deal which is spend $25.00 and get a $5.00 catalina.

Also, if you spend $50.00 you'll get $10.00 in 'Kohl's Cash', coupon good on any purchase at Kohl's from 11/9-11/21

Shop on Saturday and there are 4 items: Safeway 1/2 gallon of orange juice, bacon, eggs and bread of english muffins, for free with a $50.00 purchase.

Buy 4 save $4.00 with Kellogg's cereals

Super saver coupons in ad for Arm and Hammer Toothpaste ( use the $3.00/2 from 8/16 SmartSource to get them free!) /$1.49 each and Kleenex $2.00/4.

Wow! Thats a lot to keep track of! Go here to Krazy Coupon Lady and get some coupon match ups. Sit down, see what coupons you have, match them up. Start with the Holiday Sale... getting your first $25.00 from that deal. Take off the coupons ( and don't forget the doubles) to see what your total is. Add the Super Saver specials, then start browsing the sales to get your total up to $50.00 AFTER coupons. Remember, the total price after coupons must be $50.00 - then you'll get your 10.00 off, a 10.00 Kohls cash coupon, and a 5.00 catalina. Let us know your scenario!

Thanksgiving Preps

2009-11-06T08:13:00.000-08:00

It's less than 3 weeks now till Thanksgiving, but I want to encourage you not to run out and 'get ahead of the game' by doing all your shopping for your Thanksgiving dinner. The stores start offering some deals already, but the prices are not as low as they will be in the next week or so. Hold off, just a little longer, clip the coupons this weekend, and you'll be getting a much better deal!

Also, even though it may sound like erroneous advice, I have found over and over again, the blessing of opening our home to many on Holidays. By doing so, you not only are able to cook large amounts of fewer things, (others almost always offer to bring something... divide the meal up between all your guests. Even young single friends can bring a gallon of milk, a container of whipping cream, or a 1/2 gallon of ice cream) but you also have the blessing of visiting with others, sharing and receiving love and fellowship with those who may have ended up spending that day alone somewhere. Call those friends/acquaintances soon so that no one has to be trying to make plans for the day they think they will have to spend alone. We are encouraged to share God's love with others, and what better place than to invite them into our own homes.

Clearance on Candy

2009-11-06T07:36:00.000-08:00

Now that halloween is passed, if you're a candy fan, it's time to check out the stores for sales. Word is that Target has all their halloween candy on 75% off clearance. Be sure to check manufacturers coupons AND Target coupons to stack and get some really 'sweet' deals!

Free Ebook

2009-11-04T08:02:00.000-08:00

You can go here and download the free Ebook 'Thriving on Less - simplifying in a tough economy'.

Sounds like something most of us would enjoy about now. And whats better when it's free?

Free Lysol

2009-11-04T07:52:00.003-08:00

With the cold and flu season all around us, Lysol is a pretty important part of our home. Go here to sign up for a free sample, choice of 4 fresh scents.

PS I'm not sure about this one. I signed up, and once you sign up and hit submit, you then start the long list of all the other things you can sign up for. I just closed the window, not sure if I'll see the Lysol or not. It only took a minute, so it might be worth the try.

2009-11-04T07:52:00.001-08:00

Target Toy Coupons

2009-11-04T07:47:00.000-08:00

Target now has a huge selection of coupons for toys to print from your home computer. Go here to see the list. They don't expire till 11/25 so there is time to watch for sales to stack with these.

More Dairy Coupons

2009-11-04T07:33:00.000-08:00

For you readers who live in MN, ND, SD, IA, IL, KS, AR, OK, and MO, go to coupons.com and print coupons for 1.50/any cheese/milk purchase. You can also go to dairymakesense and print another one.

Free Meals for Veterans

2009-11-04T07:31:00.001-08:00

Applebees is offering a free meal to Veteran's on Monday, Nov. 11th in honor of their service to us and our country. Go here for details.

Other restaurants may be doing the same thing... I'll keep watching to see if I see them.

Not so Frugal Day

2009-11-03T19:03:00.000-08:00

We can try to save money, live frugally, and save where we can, but there are times when it just doesn't work out so smoothly.

Today was one such time. We had been busy making applesauce all afternoon. I'd been sweetening the sauce with the all natural fruit sweetener (here) but decided that at $23.00/gallon, maybe I'd save the last 1/4 gallon I had for tea and other little things, and just use sugar instead. We were almost done when suddenly my sweet little 2 year old rushed into the pantry with the most gleeful look on his face, plopped the empty fruit sweetener jug before me and said 'There mommy, I emptied it all for you!" Astonished, I asked 'WHAT did you do with it?" He continued in his happy way to explain that he had dumped it in a bucket, and then he took off out of the pantry, leading the way for me to see his accomplishment. We went into the laundry room..... and there... he lifted the lid of my 5 gallon bucket of home made laundry soap. Good bye fruit sweetener! And... I think it's gonna be good bye to the bucket of laundry soap. I can only imagine taking sticky towels out of the washer tomorrow!

So much for being frugal this time! Guess we win some and loose some!
Oh yeah... my husband asked me if I reprimanded him and told him we don't dump things...
I had to tell him I'd get to it a little later... the older kids and I had to make a quick exit from the laundry room to keep him from seeing us suppressing our laughter!

Albertson's Deals 11/4-11/11

2009-11-03T18:44:00.000-08:00

There are no Twice the Value Coupons in this weeks' ad, but there is rumor that there will be some in this Sunday's paper.

Catalina Promotion Spend $30 get back a $15 Catalina
(thanks to Happy2Bfrugal for this list!)

Betty Crocker Frosting $1.69

Progresso Rich and Hearty Soup $1.69

Betty Crocker Specialty potatoes $1.69

Hamburger, Tuna or Chicken Helpers $1.69

Betty Crocker Cookie pouch $1.69

Use .50 Betty Crocker Frosting Here or Here or Here
Use $1.10/3 Progresso Soup Here or Here or Here
Use .40 Betty Crocker Potatoes Here or Here or Here
Use .40 Cookie pouch Here or Here or Here

Progresso Broth $1.49

Use .50 Progresso Broth from Here or Here or Here

Gold Medal Flour $1.79 each

Use .50 Gold Medal flour from Here

Yo Plus Yogurt $2.49 each

Crescent Rolls $2.49 each

Use $1.00 Yo Plus from Here or Here or Here
Use .40/2 Crescent rolls from Here

Betty Crocker Supreme Brownies $1.99 each

Use .75/2 Supreme Brownies from Here

Knorr Pasta or Rice side dishes .99

Use $1/3 IE or FF

Select GM Cereals $1.88

Use $1/2 From Here or Here

Wishbone Salad Dressing $1.99

Use .75 from Here

In-Store Coupons:
Satsuma Tangerines $5.99 , 5# box
Hass Avocados 88 cents ea
Yellow Onions $1.49 for 3# bag
Whole White or Baby Portabella Mushrooms 8 oz. package $1.69
Farm Stand Baby Cut Carrots $1.99 for 32 oz bag
Farm Stand Grape Tomatoes 1 pint, $2.49

Other:
Fresh Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, $1.77 per #, Bone-in $1.49 per #
Green Giant Idaho Russet Potatoes 75 cents per 5# bag, limit 2
Fresh Express Salad bags, 88 cents ea
Michelina's Budget Gourmet meals 20/$10
Pork Loin Sirloin Chops or Roasts, $1.99 per #
Alb. Beef Round Rump Roast, $2.99 per #

Bird's Eye Steamfresh Vegetables $1.00
Use the $0.35/1, $1.00/2 or $1.00/3 from 10-18 SS insert

Buy a Whole Cure 81 Boneless Ham at $4.99 per pound and get a FREE HoneySuckle White Turkey breast free (turkey is frozen). Must be purchased in a single transaction. ( I called my local Albertsons and they told me that the average ham is between 5-7#)

Jane, at Alltogetherbeautiful, has given permission to copy this here. Thank you, Jane.

STAR Products

2009-11-02T15:12:00.000-08:00

Fred Meyer has their Star Olive Oil on sale this week for $4.99 for the 17oz bottle. If you still have the $4/1 coupons, this is the best deal yet. .99 per bottle of a good brand of Extra Virgin Olive Oil!

Turkey for your freezer

2009-11-02T12:41:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving is coming soon. That means a whole new group of items will be on sale and one of the best deals is going to be on turkeys. Most stores will have turkeys for very low prices with a certain dollar amount purchase. Last year it seems that they were .23# with a $50.00 purchase.

So... how can we stock up with this deal? Do you have Christmas gifts to buy? ( from Safeway?!?!?) How about business thank yous, can you send a thank you card with a gift card to a restaurant? Most grocery stores now sell gift cards, so think ahead about what other stores you'll be buying from. Buy a gift card for those stores (and get a turkey for the low price). Stock up on groceries, ( and get a turkey for low price). Think about Christmas baking, watch for deals, stock up on baking items ( and get a turkey for low price.) Ok.. get it? plan on buying as much as you can in the week before Thanksgiving, keeping in mind those $50.00 purchases so you can get a turkey each time.

If you don't have room in your freezer, plan to can them up. It really doesn't take long to get the meat off and it's so easy to have all the meat cooked and ready to eat.

Thankfulness

2009-11-02T08:05:00.001-08:00

Each Monday for the past few months I've filled out the Simple Woman's Daybook which has made me stop and think about what is happening around me, what my plans are, what/who I am praying for, etc. It's been a good exercise but I'm one given to change, in a big way. Those little diary pages were good, but I always felt they were so centered around the big "I" and really were of no benefit to others. So... with that, I'd like to move on to other ideas (which I am also given to ... in a big way.)

I have been thinking about the verse in James 1: "Every good and perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights..."

Some years ago we had plenty of work and a steady income. Life was about as 'normal' as one could expect it to be. When we had that, it was so easy to give thanks before our meals and 'know' that these blessings were from God. More recently, with the way the economy has changed, our situation has changed. Last winter paying work was a word from history, and there was no income at all. It changed my attitude on thankfulness. We always had food to feed our family, albeit, not the variety we'd had before. We all had clothes to keep us warm, and we still had a home to live in. I watched as God showed me what it meant to trust Him and how He continually gave us our daily bread. I have a journal that I began keeping last year, and I love to turn back to it's pages and read again of God's amazing provision. When we are in the midst of the roaring sea, it is then that we can best feel the comfort and relief of finding a log to hang onto, or when it's raining and cold, to find a little cove to step into and feel the warmth of a fire that on other days we would pass by and not even notice. One day while sitting in Fred Meyer parking lot waiting to meet my cousin, I picked up the paper and was scanning the Fred Meyer ad. I saw that the cheese, eggs, butter and milk were on sale and would be able to be purchased if I had an extra $20.00, then I realized that these would be really good, but I knew were not 'necessities' for life at that moment. With a little longing in my heart to be able to give the kids milk, I quietly prayed a little prayer of thankfulness for all that we did have at home to eat, and then asked for a quiet spirit in the midst of this time. My mind was wrangling with the emotions of 'I want' while my heart was remembering 'be still and know that I am God'. I decided that the best thing to do was not dwell on the wants and turn my focus on something else. I turned my attention to the mail that I had picked up at the post office and there in the middle of it was an envelope addressed to me, using my real name which no one calls me and very few know. There was no return address, and only an uncanceled postage stamp on it. Inside was a white piece of paper wrapped around a single twenty dollar bill. Needless to say, I had a time of amazement and worship there in the car. Thank you to whoever you are that sent it... not only did it give us the dairy products we were out of, but also gave us a time of teaching to our children of a Almighty God who knows and cares and provides.

So, what does this have to do with today? Last week, my son shot a buck. First one for our family ever. Saturday we had a friend show us how to cut it up. We canned some of it, made breakfast sausage, summer sausage and jerky, plus got a number of roasts and packages of steaks in the freezer. As we were busy working, I realized that again God was providing for us. He brought this buck into our front yard ( literally) and delivered over 60# of meat for my freezer for a very low price.

Years back, a fish coming home at the end of a line, or a gift of any kind would have been looked at as something nice. Now, and I want to encourage you to stop and give it some thought, each meal, bag of groceries, or bucket of berries picked, is viewed as a specially marked package straight from a loving God who really cares. It seems that maybe I had gotten into the habit of what the Israelite had gotten into while they wandered through the wilderness... God shows us that He performed real miracles by making manna rain down from heaven, thousands of pounds of quail to fly close to camp, and shortly after they complained.

May each one of us pause and see Gods hands in our lives as He provides for us, whether it be in food, clothing and shelter, health ( how many today are dealing with such serious issues in their bodies or watching their loved ones so very sick), friendships, work, a sound mind, and the list goes on and on and on. Take time today to ponder what God has done then remember to give Him thanks.

Rejoice evermore.
Pray without ceasing.
In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

Have a good week.

Wendy's Chili

2009-10-30T08:33:00.000-07:00

My favorite fast food stop is Wendy's for Chili. Good, healthy, inexpensive. When these cold fall winds start to blow, the thought of a bowl of it sounds so good! Here is the recipe so you can make a big pot of it at home. Enjoy..

Wendy's chili.

2 pounds ground beef
1 29-ounce can of tomato sauce
1 29-ounce can of kidney beans (drained) or 1/2 pound dry kidney beans
1 29-ounce can of pinto beans (drained) or 1/2 pound dry pinto beans
1 diced green pepper
1 diced medium onion
1/2 cup diced mild green chiles
1 to 6 diced jalapeno peppers (if heat desired)
1 29-ounce can diced tomatoes or 3 chopped medium tomatoes
2 teaspoons cumin powder
3 tablespoons chili powder
1 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 teaspoons salt

Preparation:

1. To use dried beans rather than canned: Bring a large saucepan of water to boil. Add the beans and simmer for 30 minutes. Turn off heat, cover and soak for 90 minutes. Drain and add to crockpot.
2. Brown the beef in skillet or microwave and drain off the fat.
3. Combine all of the ingredients in a crockpot.
4. Cook on low for 3-10 hours. If using dried beans, cook on low for 10 hours or until the beans are soft.
5. Leftovers can be frozen and kept for months.
6. Makes 12 servings, approximately 1 cup each.

Free Kashi Bar

2009-10-28T08:08:00.000-07:00

Ready to try a TLC Chewy Granola bar from Kashi? Go here to sign up.

Albertson's Deals 10/28-11/3

2009-10-28T08:06:00.000-07:00

Current Catalina Deals/Promotion: The items in green have a link with more info.

Skippy Peanut Butter-Purchase 2 All Natural Peanut Butter Spreads between 9/7/09 and 11/1/09 and recieve $1 Catalina oyno.

Save $2 on sausage wyb 2 Bertolli Sauces, coupon will print at register, exp. 11-12-09

Save up to $3 wyb Post Select Cereal, exp. 11-1-09

Money Back on Fleishmans Yeast in strip or jar, exp 11-29-09
(Use the $0.50/1 or the $0.40/1 from the recent SS insert)

Lingo Definitions:
BOGO or B1G1-Buy one get one free
Peelie-Coupons on package
WYB-When you Buy
Exp-Expires
MIR-Mail in Rebate
Catalina-Thin paper coupons that print at register
OYNO-On your next order
IP-Internet Printable Coupon

Here are the best deals I see this week:

Albertsons Half and Half, 79 cents

Albertsons Margarine $1

Fresh Express Shredded lettuce $1.29

Ronzoni Smart Taste Pasta 2/$3, Use this $1/2 IP =2/$2

Ro*Tel Tomatoes $1, Use this $0.50/1 IP, thanks Money Saving Mom!

Melitta Coffee Filters $1 Use this $1/1 IP=FREE!

Nestle 8-pk Snack Size or Theatre Box Candy $1

Wrigley's 5 Gum or Orbit Mist Spray $1

Trident Layer's Gum $1, Use the B1G1 from the 10-18 insert, or this $1/2 IP. If you have both of them to use you could get 2 FREE!

Ajax Dish Detergent $1

Monster Energy Drinks 3/$5

Wired Energy Drinks $1

Swiss Miss Cocoa $1

Stouffer's or Lean Cuisine Entree or Panini $1.88 ea
Use the $2/3 from the All-You magazine, or various recent insert coupons.

Select Kellogg Cereals $1.88 ea

Albertsons Apple juice bottles, 64 oz, 2/$3

Tombstone Pizza $2.49

Nestle 100 Count Assorted Candy, 56 oz (this bag is the size of 5 of the regular bags) $7.99, Use this $2/1 coupon=$5.99

Thank you, Jane! Be sure to visit alltogetherbeautiful here. Heard about Alice.com? See Jane's post...

Sweepstakes

2009-10-28T08:00:00.000-07:00

There seems to be a rush of sweepstakes going on now. Here are a few of them, thanks to Hip to Save, go here, to her site to see the whole list if you're interested.

Win $5.00 from Honey Nut Cheerios. Cash prizes given away every 10 minutes from now until March, 100 winners per day. You'll need a code from specially marked boxes or you can use this free code. K30FR-H4F3H-7720 .

Go here to sign up and be entered into Kraft sweepstakes. Daily prizes of Philadelphia cream cheese, salad dressing or cash. Plus each time you play you're entered into the grand prize drawing of 1,000.00. Not bad...

Safeway and STAR Products

2009-10-27T08:41:00.001-07:00

A couple months ago there was a promotion to sign up for and recieve $20.00 worth of STAR products coupons. If you got them, note that STAR olive oil is on sale at Safeway fro 5.99, expiring today. With the $4.00 off coupon and a double, you'll have a bottle of olive oil for $1.50. Not bad!

Carmen sent in a deal she found at Safeway:

SAFEWAY

Bumble Bee Tuna pouch

Light Tuna 1.49 use 1.00/1 and Safeway doubler .50 = FREE

Premium Albacore 1.99 use 1.00/1 and Safeway doubler .50 = .49ea

The 1.00/1 coupons were on smartsource but looks like they are all gone now. Also there was .55/1 in Sundays coupons which would still make a deal on Tuna.

Fred Meyers

2009-10-27T08:35:00.000-07:00

Carmen sent this in for us: (Thanks, Carmen)

COUPON EXCHANGE BUCKET AT FRED MEYERS

When you are going to shop at Fred Meyers give yourself a few extra minutes to look through the Coupon Exchange Bucket located at the left entrance. This is how it works, you take coupons that you could use or leave coupons you would not use (good way to de-clutter the coupon book). I took a few moments and found 1.00 off Foster Farms Chicken coupon and with Foster Farms whole chickens on sale this week for .69 lb. this will be some cheap chicken. There were also some great high value baby diaper coupons and other baby item coupons that we could use in our household. Give it a try you never know what you may find. Thanks to Fred Meyers for the great idea.

Also on sale this week are:
Foster Farm Whole Chicken .69#

Honeycrisp Apples are $1.28 lb. Have you tried these? In our opinion, these are the BEST apples there are. More expensive than all the others, but for very good reason.

FM Coupon buys:
FM 1/2 gallon milk, chocolate milk or OJ - 10/$10 - Your first 10

Kellogg's cereals- 5/$10 - Your first 5 (Check you coupons... there have been Kellogg's coupons floating around)

Mars Fun Size Halloween candy - $1.99 Your first 3

all Laundry Detergent (or Snuggle) $2.99 Your first 2 -(coupons.com has a $1/1 coupon - Print 2 = $1.99 each

Kashi - Save 40% - Your first 4 ( Vocal Point sent out coupons recently)

Walgreens and Rite Aid

2009-10-26T09:15:00.000-07:00

Walgreens deals can be viewed here, at couponcravings. More freebies for you... check it out.

Rite Aid deals are here.

Baja Fresh Coupons

2009-10-26T09:11:00.000-07:00

Go here for coupons for Baja Fresh. 1.99 Shrimp Fiesta meal, 2/5.00 order or a 5/15.00 purchase! Sounds like a good treat. Good till Nov. 2nd. Enjoy...
Thanks, couponcravings!

THE SIMPLE WOMAN'S DAYBOOK

2009-10-26T07:51:00.000-07:00

Monday, October 26, 2009

FOR TODAY October 26th

Outside my window... Wind, rain, clouds, definitely the sounds of winter announcing it will soon be arriving.

I am thinking....another week. What we will hold? It really doesn't matter, since we know who holds the week.

I am thankful for...a warm place to live on a rainy day.

From the kitchen.. green smoothies.

I am praying... prayers of praise and thankfulness. In everything give thanks!

I am going.. into the laundry room. Hopefully it will be organized and 'ironed up' by. . .Friday! Yeah... I said this last week. Say it again and see if I can't make it happen!

I am reading... Bill Peets books to my children.

I am hoping... for a deer for my first time hunter. ( still)

I am hearing.. wind howling and rain pounding outside my window.

Around the house.. traces of a weekend of fun and fellowship.

ANOTHER of my favorite things...licorice ice cream.

A few plans for the rest of the week: cleaning - trying to get caught up.

Go here to read more or take part in the simple woman's daybook.

Meat and Potatoes #2

2009-10-26T06:59:00.000-07:00

Another meat and potatoes dish came to mind this weekend. I made it, but since we didn't eat it here at home, and there were no leftovers, I have no photos of this one, either.

This is a very frugal dish to make, with a couple of options on how to serve it. Growing up, my mom made this often ( it comes from her side the family - I really haven't heard of it anywhere else) and called it salmon pie. It is a favorite to all of us and now to many of the grandchildren. Simple to make, inexpensive, and very delicious.

Salmon Pie

Mashed potatoes made with butter and milk ( enough to fill a 9" pie pan with a slight heap) Leftover???
1 small onion, chopped fine
1 large can red salmon ( watch at Walgreens - often on sale for 1.59 )( remove skin and bones. Add juice to the potatoes)
salt and pepper to taste
Mix above ingredients well, put into a 9" pie pan lined with a pie crust.
Dot with butter. Cover with a top crust. Make slits in the top, seal edges.

Bake at 350 for about 1 hour until golden brown.
Serve with butter and ketchup.

Yesterday we needed to take a meal out for our family plus a few more. I had a big pot of mashed potatoes in the fridge so made the above mixture up, adding about 1/2 cup of sour cream, 6 oz. cream cheese and 1 cup milk. I mixed it all up and put it in the crock pot. 4 hours later we had a hot meal ready to serve with butter and ketchup and a side salad. It must have been ok since there was just a little bit left of that big pot full. An easy take along meal.

More Homemade Laundry Soap Ideas

2009-10-22T10:53:00.000-07:00

Reiden sent in the following idea for those of us who make our own laundry soap.
Thanks, Reiden!

I have been using your laundry soap recipe and love it. It is the best one I have found so far. I used to make powdered laundry soap which is easy, but I like the liquid better. Also your recipe is the only one that I have seen where you don't have to heat huge quantities of water.

I did adapt it a bit, and just wanted to share my method with you because I think it's a little easier. You can post it on your blog if you think it's worth sharing. I fill the 5 gallon bucket half full and add the melted soap, washing soda and borax, but then I don't fill the bucket the rest of the way. I let it sit overnight and fill 2 laundry soap containers with the spout dispensers (which I got from Freecycle, since I'm too cheap to buy laundry soap) half full with water and add the soap mixture from the bucket. This makes soap that is twice as concentrated, so I use half as much per load, about 1/3 cup. I like doing it this way because it perfectly fills two of those 2+ gallon soap containers (mine say 8.87 liters because I'm in Canada, which is about 2.34 gallons) , and there is less funneling into the container, and it takes less space to store it.

Meat and Potatoes

2009-10-21T21:28:00.000-07:00

So often I'm thinking of making dinner and either have leftovers to use up, or have this ingredient or that ingredient to start my meal with, that often my menu is planned for me. Tonight, I had none of those 'limitations', so I decided to make my men really happy. I know that for many of you meat and potatoes is the staple, but for me, it's a treat. I'm going to include a very basic recipe here today.. just in case some of you get lost in the business of all the other kinds of food out there and maybe have forgotten about one of these basics.

Hamburger Gravy and Mashed Potatoes

1 onion, chopped fine
2# hamburger ( brown with the onion)

Add: 1 pkg. Lipton onion soup mix ( or salt, pepper, garlic)
2 cans cream of onion soup ( :) or: white bean flour/water/beef bouillon to make thin gravy.

Stir together till heated through.

Serve over mashed potatoes, with green beans or corn, bread and salad. It was such a hit I'm going to try to remember to do this again before the year is out!

Fred Meyers

2009-10-20T20:08:00.000-07:00

Just in case you didn't see the ad in Sunday's paper... Tillamook cheese is 3.99 for the 2# loaf with coupon, limit 2.

If you didn't get the coupon, the service desk often has them and if they are out, most of the time there is one at the registers that the clerk can use. Just ask.

Albertson's Ad 10-20/10-27

2009-10-20T20:07:00.000-07:00

Current Catalina Deals/Promotion: The items in green have a link with more info.

Skippy Peanut Butter-Purchase 2 All Natural Peanut Butter Spreads between 9/7/09 and 11/1/09 and recieve $1 Catalina oyno.

Save $2 on sausage wyb 2 Bertolli Sauces, coupon will print at register, exp. 11-12-09

Save up to $3 wyb Post Select Cereal, exp. 11-1-09

Money Back on Fleishmans Yeast in strip or jar, exp 11-29-09

Lingo Definitions:
BOGO or B1G1-Buy one get one free
Peelie-Coupons on package
WYB-When you Buy
Exp-Expires
MIR-Mail in Rebate
Catalina-Thin paper coupons that print at register
OYNO-On your next order
IP-Internet Printable Coupon

Click HERE for a pdf ad

Here are the best of the deals I see this week:

In-Store Coupons: This whole list of coupons is good all week long!
California Strawberries 1 # container, $1.88 limit 2

Fresh ground beef, 85% lean, $1.88 per #, limit 10 lb.

Tostitos Tortilla Chips $1.99 limit 2

Mars Halloween Candy, fun size $1.99 limit 2,
use the $1/2 from 10-11 RP insert=$1.49 ea wyb 2

Tony's Pizza $1.79 limit 4-
Use the $1/2 coupon from 10-4 insert=$1.29 ea wyb 2

Java Delight Coffee $3.99 limit 2

Pork Center Cut Chops $2.49 per #, no limit listed

Jennie O 85% lean Ground Turkey, $1.99 per #, no limit listed. 1.25 # packages-
There might be a $1.00/1 coupon coming in this weekend's newspaper that can be combined with this one.

Whole Boneless Tenderlean Ham, 4#, $5.99, only $1.50 per #!

Extra Jumbo Grill Cut Shrimp, 16-20 ct. Sold in a 2 # bag. $6.99 per #

Platter Style Bacon-At the butcher block. $2.49 per #

Honeysuckle Turkey Breast, Frozen-Bone-in. $1.49 per #

Other Great Deals:
Fresh Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast or Pork Loin Assorted Chops, $1.88 per #
Fresh Green Asparagus, $1.69 per #
Tillamook Cheese 2#, $4.99 limit 2
Pepsi 2 liters, $1
Fresh Express Salads, 2/$3
Beef Chuck 7 Bone Roast, $1.99 per #

Really Cheap Airfares

2009-10-20T08:41:00.000-07:00

Is the idea of heading out on a little trip starting to nibble you? Just recently I've heard of travelzoo, the latest and greatest in air travel purchasing. From what I'm hearing, you sign up and they send you emails with the latest fare deals. Today as I check them out, here are 60 cities offering a 3 day sale of flights as low as $39.00 one way! My cousin just used them to get a round trip ticket from Minneapolis to Seattle for $119.00 including all taxes and fares! Be sure to check them here out before you make your plans to head out!

Free Sandwich today

2009-10-20T08:38:00.000-07:00

Today is the day for the free sandwich at Jack in the Box. Purchase a large drink and get a free grilled sandwich.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2009-10-19T06:39:00.000-07:00

Monday, October 19, 2009

FOR TODAY October 19th

Outside my window... Beautiful fog in the valley, little 'puddles' of it here and there between the clumps of trees.

I am thinking....yes, I am thinking. So many thoughts, so many emotions. What a friend we have in Jesus... what a privilege to carry, everything to Him in prayer.

I am thankful for... both truth and grace.

From the kitchen.. cinnamon raisin English muffins, apple butter and Chai Tea.

I am praying... for so many dear ones who are hurting today; health, employment, life, living in a broken world.

I am going.. into the laundry room. Hopefully it will be organized and 'ironed up' by. . .Friday!

I am reading...The Truth and Grace Paradox. Available here or at the library.

I am hoping... for a deer for my first time hunter.

I am hearing.. tummys rumbling, waiting to eat.

Around the house.. fall colors, discussions of job hunting, school days.

ANOTHER of my favorite things...cool mornings, hot tea.

A few plans for the rest of the week: homemaking... and then my nephew is coming for the weekend!!! Looking forward to seeing him after many years!

Go here to read more or take part in the simple woman's daybook.

Free Sandwich

2009-10-16T08:48:00.000-07:00

Maybe the fast food spots are revving up for another dose of free stuff. For starters, Jack in the Box is giving free grilled sandwiches away on the October 20th ( Tuesday) with the purchase of a large drink. Go here for the scoop directly from Jack In The Box.

Another Mexican Supper

2009-10-15T21:23:00.000-07:00

Here is a recipe my cousin Beth sent me the other day. I tried it tonight ( with some variations, of course :) ) and it was very good! She didn't give a name to it, so lets name it after her:

Beth's Easy Mexican Supper

1 can black beans
1 bottle salsa
1 can corn ( drained)
4 chicken breasts ( cut into chunks)
Pour all of the above into crock pot. Allow to cook till chicken is done.
1/2 hour before serving, add 8 oz cream cheese.
Serve over white or brown rice.
She said she stretched the meat by adding twice the beans, salsa and corn and it was very good.

I used some beans that were white ( and had a mexican label on them, so really couldn't tell you what they were) and instead of the chicken breasts, I used a zip lock of my recipe for Mexican meat. We cut up some corn tortillas and lightly sauted them before putting them on top of the supper with a little sour cream ( well.. plain yogurt :) ) to top it all off. It got rave reviews from my family. Very easy, very good!

Apple Butter

2009-10-15T20:55:00.000-07:00

It certainly is the season for apples, and with this crisp fall air, what could be better than a walk in the crunching leaves, picking a bright, red, cold, apple off the tree and taking a bite of this wonderful, juicy fruit! Nothing like it.

My kitchen has been having the smell of apple off and on for a few weeks now. I've heard often of apple butter, and recently had two occasions to try a little bit of it. I am sold. It's smooth, spicy, sweet taste is just so.... hmm, homey. Not sure what else to call it. Anyway, I had to try making some, and it was worth the work. Have you ever made it? I think I have found an easier way than the way I did it, which I will try next time.

First off, to make apple butter you need to have apple sauce. Home made is going to be far better than store bought apple sauce. Go here if you need instructions on how to make apple sauce.

You'll need a few quarts of applesauce. Pour them into a crock pot or slow cooker ( ah... there is my secret for making it easier! Next time)
Add your choice of sweetener ( sugar, fruit syrup sweetener, white grape or apple juice concentrate) Some recipes call for equal amounts of applesauce to sugar, but I put about half the amount of sugar to my applesauce. ( I also used fruit sweetener for 1/2 of the amount of sugar I was putting)
Add 2 tsp. of cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp. of cloves to every quart of applesauce
Stir it all together and put in the slow cooker. Leave the cover slightly open so the steam can escape. Allow to cook on low heat for 6 -12 hours. Stir occasionally. Apple butter is done when it is thick enough to mound onto your spoon.
You can freeze the butter, bottle it and process it for 10 minutes in a water bath, or... leave it in the fridge and see how long it will last.

You can cook this on the stove top ( which I tried, but quit when it was spattering all over the kitchen walls, floors, stovetop, countertop, and burning me as I tried to get close enough to stir it) or in the oven. ( My pan is shown below.... it tasted good, but what a mess to clean up. Try the crockpot!)

Host a Christmas Cookie Party

2009-10-15T08:25:00.000-07:00

Like baking cookies for Christmas? Go here and here to sign up to host a Christmas Cookie Party. Both Hershey and Betty Crocker are offering hosting parties to 1,000 people. If chosen, you'll recieve some baking mixes, cook books, aprons, gift cards for more baking items, and all the paper goods needed to host your party. Sound interesting? Hurry to sign up.. I'm sure it will fill up fast!

Chevys

2009-10-14T11:20:00.000-07:00

Fellow Chevy's fans. Go here to get a coupon for a 3.99 entree when you buy any other entree of equal value. If you're heading that way anyway, it would be a savings! Enjoy.

Albertson's Deals 10/14-10/21

2009-10-14T09:54:00.000-07:00

Current Catalina Deals/Promotion:

Skippy Peanut Butter-Purchase 2 All Natural Peanut Butter Spreads between 9/7/09 and 11/1/09 and recieve $1 Catalina oyno.

Lingo Definitions:
BOGO or B1G1-Buy one get one free
Peelie-Coupons on package
WYB-When you Buy
Exp-Expires
MIR-Mail in Rebate
Catalina-Thin paper coupons that print at register
OYNO-On your next order
IP-Internet Printable Coupon

Here are the best of the deals I see this week:

Meat:
Albertsons Whole Frying Chicken 78 cents per #
Ground Beef, Pork Shoulder Country Style Ribs, or Pork Spareribs, $1.99 per #
Beef Loin Petite Sirloin Steak $2.99 per #

Produce:
Gold Delicious, Granny Smith or Red Delicious Apples, 78 cents a #
Celery, not wrapped 89 cents
Whole Fresh Carrots 59 cents (Carries note: ever try these bulk carrots vs the bagged? I taste a difference!)

Whole Carrots, 1 pound bag
Green Bell Peppers 59 cents a #
Yellow Onions, 59 cents a #
Pears, Variety 99 cents a #
Avocados $1 ea

In-Store Coupons: these are Alb. Coupons not manf. coupons
Coca-Cola 2 Liters, 77 cents ea, limit 4
Albertsons Butter 1# Quarters, $1.49, limit 2
Soft Choice TP (12 or 24) or Awesome Paper towels (8 roll) $3.99 , limit 2
Oreo Cookies, $1.99, Use the $1/2 coupon from the Nabisco Coupon book=$2.98/2
Albertsons 4# Sugar or 5# Flour $1.49, limit 2

Other:
Crest $1, combine with a coupon for free or cheap toothpaste!
Prego Sauce $1.49 ea
Crunch n Munch $1-Use recent $0.35/1 coupon from inserts=65 cents ea
FREE shoppers Saltine Crackers wyb 2- 20 oz. Hormel Chili Masters at 2/$4-Use the $2/1 Hormel Chili Masters coupon from All-You Magazine=$2 for 2 Chili and 1 box of crackers

General Mills Promotion (back page)
Spend $25 on participating items and save $10 on your next shopping trip. There are many coupon match-ups for this sale at Coupons.com including these brands:
Gogurt
BC Cookie Mixes
BC Warm Delights
BC Fruit Gushers
BC Boxed Potates
GM Cereals
Nature Valley Bars
Pillsbury
Progresso Soup

Carrie says: Once you get your scenario figured out, leave a comment so others can get ideas! Let's share our ideas... help each other!

Thank you, Jane! Alltogetherbeuatiful provides this weekly update for us! Be sure to stop by and say thanks and see what ideas she has for being a homemaker/mom!

Another way to save on the grocery budget

2009-10-14T08:44:00.000-07:00

This may sound like a no brainer, or maybe ridiculous, but I have found ( again and again, as I tend to forget) that if one exercises regularly, you tend to want to eat more healthy and less junk food. Junk food tends to be expensive, and fruits and vegetables can be relatively inexpensive. Buy the cheaper food, exercise, eat less = saving money. Plus, if what 'they' say is true, you'll be healthier, so you'll not have as many trips to the doctor, saving more money again!

Remember, to curb those afternoon *snack attacks*, eat plenty of protein for lunch, and then about 1/2 hour before the attack would normally hit, make up a big plate of cut up vegetables and just set them on the counter, to munch on as you pass by. It will get your blood sugar up and begin to curb the craving before it ever hits.

Target Deals

2009-10-12T13:21:00.000-07:00

Hip to Save has not only the latest Walgreen and Rite Aid Deals (you'll need to scroll down to find any of her stuff, as she doesn't post on separate links for some reason. Kind of frustrating.) but she also has a good video tutorial today called Follow Me Monday about shopping at Target. Go here to see it and the drugstore ads for the week. ( remember to scroll down)

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2009-10-12T08:12:00.000-07:00

Monday, October 12, 2009

FOR TODAY October 12th

Outside my window... A chill, but more sunshine and some thin clouds

I am thinking....Of the Chris Klicka Family (here) our trials seem nothing.

I am thankful for... a healthy family today

From the kitchen.. oatmeal, Asian pears, and ham stew

I am praying... that 'we may be one as They are one'

I am going.. more Drivers Education runs.

I am reading...Psalms

I am hoping... to keep up the walking all week long.

I am hearing...the clock ticking... time marches on.

Around the house.. Busy life. Life plans, hunting plans, dolls, and trucks.

ANOTHER of my favorite things...A good, LONG, walk.

A few plans for the rest of the week: cider making, maybe try making some apple butter, walks, reading, more of Laura and Mary Wilder.

Go here to read more or take part in the simple woman's daybook.

Sunday Coupon Review

2009-10-10T08:10:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow's paper will have 3 inserts in it. Red Plum, Smart Source and Proctor and Gamble. Plus word is that Albertson's will have 3 doubles in it! Go here to see what coupons will be in the inserts. It seems to be a good idea to wait until Monday/Tuesday to shop at Albertson's since so often they have doubles come out on Sunday. Using just 2 of the doubles with 1.00 coupons pays for the price of your paper!

Taking Surveys

2009-10-10T08:01:00.000-07:00

If you have a few minutes extra here and there, and you see those surveys available. Stop and take them. I haven't always done that, but over the last few months I've decided to see what happens. It's been amazing. I've been tucking the little checks away and so far have about 27 dollars in the envelope for survey money. The other day I got a call saying that I had taken a survey about what foods my child would eat in a fast food restaurant and had been the winner in a random drawing, which card would I like, Wal-mart, Target or Amazon. I asked what the catch was, but she assured me there was not catch. Sure enough. In yesterday's mail, there was a Target gift card for $25.00 with a thank you for taking part in their survey.

Chevy's had a survey a bit ago and EVERYONE who took it got a $10.00/$20.00 purchase coupon. That was a good one too!

So, just as a little heads up... if you see them, it may be worth taking the time to do them. ( I have tried a couple of them, and now sort of recognize the sites, that once you take one, it just goes on and on to more and more and never gets to the end! I pass those up!)

Free Eggs with purchase

2009-10-09T08:45:00.000-07:00

Go here and sign up ( or take the pledge :) ) If you are one of the first 20,000 to do so you'll get coupon for a BOGO on a dozen eggs. Your brand, your choice.
They are still printing at 8:45 a.m. Friday. I just got mine.

Safeway Specials

2009-10-07T23:07:00.000-07:00

Safeway has a couple great deals this week.

On Friday/Saturday/Sunday they have Tillamook 2# Cheddar for $3.99 (limit 2)

18ct eggs are 1.49 with in ad coupon and a 20.00 purchase.

All week they have Kleenex tissue 110 ct. for .99 Use the coupon .50/3 for the 10/3 SS, double it and you'll be paying 1.97 or so for 3 boxes. Good deal.. but it gets better. Buy 3 and you get a $3.00 catalina for this. So you just got all 3 boxes for free. From what I see, you can roll this one, meaning you can turn around and go buy 3 more plus a cheap filler to get the price up over 3.00, use your catalina you just got and do it again. And again. And again!