Frozen Potato Stock-Up

So last Monday I dragged the hubs shopping with me to the Meijer and Target....here is what I picked up.  Nothing too exciting or stellar except for my super cheap frozen potatoes:)

Our first stop was Meijer and of course I had to do multiple transactions...three actually:

Transaction #1:

• 2.5 lbs bananas $1.43
• 4 boxes Kraft Milk Bites Granola Bars $11.96.  Used 1 printable $1.50/2 and 2 .75/1 q's = $8.96
• 1 International Delight Iced Coffee $3.49.  Used mPerks q $1/1 and a $1/1 printable = $1.49
• 1 bunch fresh asparagus $1.09
• 1 package Kraft String Cheese $3.49.  Used Meijer Cat I got on a previous transcation $1/1 = $2.49
• 1 cucumber $1.00

I spent a total of $16.84 and got back a $4.00 OYNO Cat for the Milk Bites and string cheese.

Transaction #2

• 4 Philadelphia Cream Cheese Indulgences $7.96./  Used 2 printables $1/1 and another printable $1.50/2 = $4.46
• 1 International Delight Iced Coffee $3.49.  Used mPerks q $1/1 and a $1/1 printable = $1.49 
• 1 package Kraft String Cheese $3.49.  Used Meijer Cat I got on a previous transaction $1/1 = $2.49 
• 3 packages Ore-Ida frozen potatoes B2G1 $5.00
• 2 bags Meijer Pretzels $2.00
• 3 Hillshire Farm Chicken Sausage $7.50.  Used 3 .55/1 q's = $5.85

I spent a total of $21.79 and got back another $4.00 OYNO Cat for the string cheese and cream cheese and a $1.00 OYNO Cat for the Ore-Ida potatoes.  

Transaction #3:

• 3 packages Ore-Ida frozen potatoes B2G1 $5.00 

I spent $5.09 with tax and got back another $1.00 OYNO Cat.  

My total for all three transactions was $43.72 and I got back a total of $10.00 in Cats for an end cost of $33.72 (I saved the $10 for me next trip to the Meijer...stay tuned, I got that post swirling in my noggin).  I saved a total of  $19.15 in q's, store promos and mPerks.

Next stop, Target.  Here is what we picked up:

• 4-3 pack packages of Dentyne Ice $8.00.  Used 4 Target printables $1/1 and 4 $1/1 q's = FREE
• 1 bottle Purell $2.99.  Used mobile Target q $1/1 and a manufacturer q $1/1 = $0.99
• 1 Aveeno Face Wash $6.49.  Used $1/1 = $5.49
• 1-2 pack Target Up & Up Contact Solution $4.94.  Used Target printable $1/$3 Up & Up purchase = $3.94
• 1 package Pampers Newborn Diapers $9.49.  Used Target mailer q $1/1 and a manufacturer q $2/1 from a Proctor and Gamble mailer = $6.49

I also another $0.05 for using a reusable bag for an end total of $18.85.

Overall, a pretty good day of shopping  Gum is one of those things I really don't like to pay for some I am always happy when I can stock up for free:)

Some Freebies At The Bullseye

So I ventured over to the Target yesterday to pick up some odds and ends and some freebies....I love freebies!  I also needed some more hairspray...that is kind of an on going need in our house, hairspray.  I think my heart is still stuck in 1987...I must have a ton of hairspray on my do....I always have a back up can under the sink and a travel size can in the console of my car for midday touch ups.  Some women touch up their make-up, I touch up my hair...I have tried to go "natural", it's just not me.  So when you constantly see a can of hairspray peeking out of my shopping photos and wonder what I do with it, now you know....I use way too much of it and I am o.k. with that:)

Here is what I picked up at the Target yesterday for a total OOP of $25.73...not too shabby and the lady behind me was impressed:)

• 1-3 pack of Huggies Baby Wipes $5.99.  Used a Target q from a mailer $1/1 and and manufacturer q .50/1 = $4.49
• 1 package Pampers Wipes $2.39.  Used a Target q from a mailer $1/1 and a manufacturer q .50/1 = $0.89
• Colrox Bleach $3.54
• 5 Market Pantry Apple Juice $9.85.  Used 5 Target printables .50/1 = $7.35
• 2 Welch's Naturals Concord Grape Jelly $3.38.  Used 2 Target printables $1/1 and 2 manufacturer q's .75/1 = $0.12 MONEYMAKER
• 1 Vitamin Water $1.00.  Used Target Cataline for .75/1 = $0.25
• 4 Purell Hand Sanitizers $11.96.  USed 4 Target printables $1/1 and 4 manufacturer q's $1/1 = $3.96
• 4 Up & Up 24-ct. Ibuprofen $3.96.  Used 4 Target printables $1/1 = FREE
• 1 Tres Semme Hairspray $3.79

I also saved an additional $0.25 for using my own, reusable bags for a total savings of $21.96...almost 50%...I'll take it!  

Some Target Freebies....

On Monday, I dragged the hubs with me to the Target to pick up some odds and ends...nothing too exciting but anytime I can get anything for free he thinks I am the greatest:)  Unfortunately, not everything was a deal but it was all needed.  Here is what we picked up on our little Target trip for a grand total of $34.87 OOP:

• 2-12packs Angel Soft toilet paper $11.98.  Used 2 Target printables $1/1 and 2 manufacturer q's .45/1 = $9.08
• 1 Tide Stain Release $4.49
• 4 packs Mentos UP2U gum $5.16.  Used 4 Target printables $1/1 and 4 manufacturer q's .55/1 = $1.04 MONEYMAKER
• 1 Can Tres Semme Hairspray $3.79
• 4 Vaseline Intensive Care Lotion $20.00.  Used 4 Target printables $1/1 and 4 manufacturer q's $1/1 = $12.00.  I also got back a $5 Target gift card for a promo they were running on the lotion for and end cost of only $7.00 or $1.75 per lotion.
• 2 Skintimate Shave Gel $4.88.  Used 2 q's .55/1 = $3.78
• 1 tube Vaseline Total Care Lotion.  Used $1/1 q = $0.03 MONEYMAKER (every penny counts:)

I saved $19.20 in q's and got a $5 gift card back....not a bad little trip over all.  I wish I had had some q's for the tide.  As much as I try to use a q for everything, there are somethings that I cannot go without and Tide is one of them.  My kiddos are the princes of dirt and this is a must on our house.

Another Bullseye Pit Stop

I am having to put in some major couponing time to restock my stockpile....that means 3-4 trips a week until I have replenished my second pantry.  Meijer had some pretty decent deals coupled with a few $5/$5 purchase q's on my mPerks accounts (I have two...double the Q's).

Here is what I picked up last Wednesday for a grand total of $27.81 OOP.

Transaction #1:

• 15 jars Beech-Nut Baby Food $6.90.  Used 4 $1/1 printables = $2.90
• 2 Degree Deodorant $5.28.  Used mPerks q $2/2 = $3.28 (not a stellar price by any means...but the hubs was almost out and this is one of those things you cannot go without...lol)
• 2 frozen bags corn $2.00
• 5 6-cup packages Mott's Applesauce $3.34 after instant savings of $5.00

I also used one of my $5/$5 mPerks q's for a grand total of $6.84.

Transaction #2:

• 2 Degree Deodorant $5.18.  Used mPerks q $2/2 = $3.18 (not a stellar price by any means...but, again, you don't want to stink)
• 3 2 liters of Coca-Cola $4.00 (I am craving Coke...and that stuff is never cheap...I have accepted I am just going to have to pay for it and deal with it)
• 5 6-cup packages Mott's Applesauce $3.34 after instant savings of $5.00
• 1 Water Bottle for the hubs for work $8.39 on clearance:)

I used my other $5/$5 mPerks q for a end total of $14.88.  

I made a quick stop at the Target again to pick up some cheap vitamins for the kiddos that I didn't snatch up the day before.

• 4 60ct. Flintstone's Vitamins $17.97.  Used 3 Target printables $2/1 and 3 manufacturer q's $2/1 = $6.09 with tax

Target was running a deal, if you buy three participating products you get back a $5.00 gift card and these vitamins qualified...after my gift card I only paid $1.09 for 180 vitamins.  Almost as good as free:)

Stay tuned for Jewel Double Coupon Extravaganza....I picked up some super cheap cereal tonight and am hoping to snatch up some more goodies for next to nothing over the next three days...have a good Monday.

A Couponing I Will Go.....

I only venture to the Dominick's from time to time.  It is my least favorite place to coupon.  You have to constantly check the dates on products, the shelves are usually empty, the prices are often high and I frequently have issues with CATS not printing at the Doms.  But every once and a while it is worth to mosey on over there and pick up a few things.

My cereal stockpile was nada after my holiday vacay from couponing, so I am having to pay a bit more right now for cereal than I would like just to keep my kiddos happy....and its worth it.  They love cereal and I am good with that...especially since I tend to be running behind on getting them to school on-time.

Here is what I picked up at Doms for a grand total of $19.82....plus some random Target pick-ups too:)

Transaction #1:

• 4 boxes Honey Bunches of Oats $7.96.  Used 4 $1/1 printables = $4.10 (with tax)

Transaction #2:

• 4 boxes Honey Bunches of Oats $7.96.  Used 4 $1/1 printables = $3.96
• 4 32 oz. Gatorade $3.56.  Used J4U Q for $0.88/bottle.
• 2 gallons skim milk $3.94.  Used J4U Q for $1.97/gallon
• 4 Comet Cleanser $3.52.  Used J4U Q for $0.88/container

Total with tax for transaction #2 was $15.72.

I made a quick stop at the Target for some freebies and cheapies.  Here is what I picked up....

• 4 Rolls Up & Up Paper Towels $3.96.  Used 4 Target printables $1/1 = FREE
• 5 Bananas $1.20.  Used Target Q $1/$1 or more of fresh fruit = $0.20
• 2 Wonka Fun Dip Valentine's Day cards $6.54.  Used 2 $1/1 printables and a Target printable $1/2 = $3.54.

Not a bad little trip for under $5.00....if only all my Target trips were this cheap my hubs would be happy:)

Random Deals and House Projects

I have been flooded with a sea of coupons to clip over the last two weeks.... especially since last week's paper had 7 inserts each and I had 12 papers...you do the math.  I think I have finally managed to catch up...thank goodness, because Sunday is right around the corner again.  Life has been pretty crazy around here and there seems to be an endless stream of  "to-do's".  We just finished giving our master bath a face lift and the on-going re-do of our master bedroom is almost complete...we just need to find a nice comfy chair for our little reading nook.  Here are some picks of our newly decorated corner of the world.

I would still like to put in some much nicer bath faucets and a new exhaust fan but haven't found anything I love yet so those remain until something strikes me. The bath also needs some more decor, but I haven't come across anything else that has wowed me.  My girly and I are off to the flea market next month, so you never know what I may find there:)

Those are my fabulous lamps on either side of the bed that I scored at Home Goods a couple of months ago...and they are still FABULOUS.

The bathroom face lift all started with this television and my saying, Let's repaint the bedroom.  When we (and I mean me) decided to repaint the bedroom, I wanted the TV mounted on this little wall.  But there was one problem, there was no stud to screw the mount into...so what do I do?  Do I move the TV to a different wall??  If you know me, you already said NO...and you couldn't be more right.  On the other side of this wall was the crappy medicine cabinet I told you that we pulled out and replaced with the hardwired, mounted make-up mirror.  It was the perfect, pre-existing hole to build out with some 2 X 4's to mount the TV to.  And then I figured while the wall already had a big, gaping hole in it we might as well do a little electrical work and that is where the make-up mirror came to fruition...it wasn't too bad (although the hubs may say a little different).  

But then I said, Well, we need medicine cabinets for all of our stuff since now we don't even have a small one....and you just know that under the cabinets is stocked with all of my little coupon goodies so there really is no extra room for the everyday stuff...the medicine cabinets were a must and I have to say they look fabulous and were worth all of the work.  We had to cut two holes in the dry wall after getting the giant 6 foot builder-special mirror off the wall in one piece, cut out parts of the exisitng 2 X 6's that ran straight through both of them and frame in two medicine cabinet openings.  

Then the existing vanity lighting that was there looked weird because there was only one fixture, so I said...You know, we really need to put in another fixture so that each cabinet has it's own fixture over it and it looks balanced.  But then I couldn't decide on fixtures so we (and I mean me) decided that we should put in recessed lighting over the vanity and that would solve that issue...did I mention how much the hubs just loves going into the attic to do projects...lol.  So a little more electircal work and poof....instant bathroom face lift.   That old, sterile giant mirror just screamed "Builder Special"...but we found it a good home a la Freecycle so no waste there....everyone wins:)

Oh....and I almost forgot the little toilet debacle.  While the hubs was on his way to Lowe's to pick up the recessed lights, I said I am going to change the handle on the toilet with a nicer one.  While doing this (what would seem to be a simple task) the toilet cracked...so we needed a new toilet.  The hubs was ecstatic about this one.  He finally got the "throne" he has been wanting...a dual-flush, chair height, elongated bowl.  I have to admit, it is quite nice and looks good too. I don't think he will ever let me "repaint" something again...next on the list is the down stairs powder room....I swear, it's just paint...well, and a new mirror:) 

In between these projects and all of the other things that unfold during a day, I have been couponing like crazy. I haven't had time to photo all of my little grabs...but I did take some snapshots of a few stellar finds at the Doms, Wal-Mart and Target over the last 2 weeks.  Target has been my favorite stomping ground lately as there has been a lot of clearance.

Here was my Doms/Wal-Mart/Target trifecta that I picked up on October 3rd:

My first stop was Doms where they were running a buy 8 save $4 sale:

• 10-2 Liters Cranberry Sierra Mist $14.90.  Saved $5.00 as part of the promo and used1 J4U q $1/2 and 3 $1/2 q's = $5.90
• 3-2 Liters Pepsi Max. Used 2 Buy 2 Cheetos get a Free 2 Liter of Pepsi Max and 1 J4U q for the same thing = $2.02 MONEYMAKER (the computer was handing out overage on this deal and who was I to say no??)
• 6 bags Cheetos snacks $11.94.  Saved $3.00 as part of the promos and used 2 $1/2 q's and a J4U q $1/2 = $5.94
• 2 gallons Skim Milk $3.98.  Used J4U personalized pricing for $1.99/gallon.

Total OOP at the Doms was $15.02 with tax and saved a total of 22.97 in q's and J4U savings.  Next stop was the Wal-Mart for a quick crab of some International Delight Coffee Creamer (I never thought I would run out of that...lol)

• 2 International Delight Creamer $3.76.  Used 2 printables .55/1 = $2.66

Last stop for the day was the Target for a free toy and some other dealios.  

• 1 Jean skirt on clearance for $6.24.  Used Target printable for $3/1 clothing item = $3.24
• 2 Revlon Nail Clippers $3.94.  Used Target Cat for $5/2 and 2 manufacturer q's $1/1 = $2.00 MONEYMAKER (no overage on the Target q, only the manufacturer q's)
• 2 cans Tressemme Hairspray $7.58.  Used q B1G1 = $3.79
• 1 Transformers Dark of the Moon toy $9.99.  Used printable $5/1 and Target mobile q $5/1 = FREE

I also saved $0.05 for using my own bag.  My total OOP was $9.20 and I saved a total of $20.78 in q's.  I went back the next day to pick up another free transformer and some more randomness and have gone back twice since for a grand total of 4 FREE Transformers...that's right, $40.00 worth of free toys thanks to coupons!

The next day I made another stop at the Target and picked up this tiny stash of goodies for a whopping $1.43:)

• 1 Merona t-shirt $3.74.  Used Target printable $3/1 = $0.74
• 2-4 packs Ocean Spray Sparkling Cranberry Juice $3.98.  Used 2 $1.50/1 q's from the MDA book I picked up from the Dom's a few weeks earlier = $0.98
• 1 Revlon Nail Clipper $1.97.  Used Target Cat for $2/1 and manufacturer q $1/1 = $1.00 MONEYMAKER  (no overage on the Target q, only the manufacturer q)
• 1 Transformers Dark of the Moon $9.99.   Used printable $5/1 and Target mobile q $5/1 = FREE

I saved another $0.05 for my reusable bag and my total OOP was only $1.43...$0.77 of which was tax:)  If only every trip was this cheap...I would have a lot more $$$...lol

Almost...Free Target Trip

We stopped at Target the other day to pick up my loaves of free bread with the q's that were in the Wednesday paper.  I also needed a couple of other things so used up some Revlon q's to get the overage.  here is what I took home for a grand total of $6.57 OOP:

• 2-4 count Travel Size Shout Wipes $0.96.  Used 2 .55/1 = $0.14 MONEYMAKER
• 2 Archer Farms Honey Wheat Bread $5.58.  Used 2 Target q's for free bread from the 9.21 papers = FREE
• 1 Dozen large Market Pantry Eggs $1.89.  Used Target q .50/1 = $1.39
• 3 packages Revlon Nail Files and 1 Nail Buffer = $8.60.  Used 2 Target q's $5/2 and 3 $1/1 manufacturer q's = $3.00 MONEYMAKER
• 1 Rimmel Mascara $5.69.  Used $2/1 printable = $3.69
• 1 Purina Whisker Lickins cat treats $0.99.  Used mobile Target q $1/1 = $0.01 MONEYMAKER
• 1 TresSemme hairspray $3.79

I saved a total of $21.78 in q's...I also got my hands on another free bread q and picked up another bag of cat treats for free today:)

Target Recap

The last couple weeks are starting to take their toll on me and I am just exhausted.  I always seem to be a day late and a dollar short...I don't know why I just can't seem to catch up, so I will just keep treading water and clipping q's:)

Here is a quick catch up on some of my Target finds.  Here is what I picked up on September 8th:

Transaction #1:

• 4-50 count Huggies Slip-On Diapers $79.16.  Used 4 Target printables $2/1 and 4 manufacturer q's $3/1 = $59.16.

Paid a total of $63.00 (stinking tax) OOP and got back $20.00 in Target gift cards for an end cost of only $0.20/diaper...not bad since they do double duty as pull-ups and we are potty training right now.

Transaction #2:

• 1 box Huggies Overnight diapers $19.79.  Used Target q $1.50/1 and manufacturer q $1.50/1 = $16.79
• 4 Febreze Noticeables Warmers $11.96.  Used 4 $3/1 q's = $0.04 MONEYMAKER
• Drano Pipe Foamer $3.39.  Used Target printable $0.50/1 = $2.89
• 4-4 count Cascade Dishwasher Tabs $3.88.  Used 4 $1/1 = $0.12 MONEYMAKER
• 6 packs Trident gum $7.74.  Used 3 Target printables B1G1 and 2 manufacturer q's $2/3 = $0.13 MONEYMAKER
• 1 bonus pack Colgate toothpaste w/ toothbrush $1.48.  Used $1/1 = $0.48
• 4 Purina Whisker Lickins' Cat Treats $3.96.  Used 4 Target printables $1/1 = FREE
• 2 Bounce Dryer Bars $11.98.  Used 2 Vocalpoint q's $2.50/1 and $1.50/1 = $7.98.  Got back a $5 gift card = an end cost of $2.98

My total after q's and $20 in gift cards was $11.94 and I walked away with the $5 gift card for an end cost of $6.94...not too shabby:)  I saved a total of $76.27 in q's and gift cards and saved my $5 gift card for another trip. 

I made another run on the 14th (I think there was a trip in between for a few randoms...but I have no idea what I got...that is how it's going around here lately...lol).  Here is what I picked up...all in one transaction:)

• 1 Pampers Kandoo Wipes $1.49.   Used $1/1 = $0.49
• 3 Febreze Noticeables Warmers $8.97.  Used 3 $3/1 q's = $0.03 MONEYMAKER
• 1 dual pack Febreze Noticeables refills $8.89.  Used Target q $0.75 and manufacturer q $1/1 = $7.14
• 2 Boys' Mossimo t-shirts $11.16.  Used 2 Target printables $5/1 = $1.16
• 1 Pantene Shampoo $3.60.  Used q for free item from mailing = FREE
• 1 Pantene Conditioner $3.60.  Used q for free item from mailing = FREE
• 1 Tidy Cats Scoopable litter $6.99.  Used Target printable $2/1 and manufacturer q $1/1 = $3.99
• 2 Purina Party Mix cat treats $2.84.  Used peelie on cat litter for free bag w/ litter purchase and Target printable for B1G1 Free = FREE
• 4 Purina Whisker Lickins' Cat Treats $1.98.  Used 2 Target printables $1/1 = FREE
• 1 can Friskie's canned cat food $0.45.  Used q for free can from previous cat litter purchase = FREE
• 1 package Always Pantyliner's $5.54.  Used q .50/1 = $5.04
• 2 boxes Tampax Pearl Tampons $7.98.  Used Target q $1/2 and 2 $1/1 = 4.98

My total OOP was $27.59.  I saved a total of $38.84...the cats will have plenty of free goodies for a long time...think I will take some to the animal shelter too.

A Vacation From My Problems...

This past week, we headed up to Michigan for a little family vacation and some time to unwind.  We stopped in Holland for some yummy G&L Hot Dogs and to order a candle and pick up some Dutch paraphernalia....the "Dutchies" refer to this part of Michigan as the "Motherland"...lol.  After a short pit stop we made our way up to Grand Rapids to see a very old, dear friend from grade school.  It is amazing how you can reconnect with someone almost 20 years later and pick up where you left off.

After our night in Grand Rapids, we headed up to Traverse City for five days to enjoy some time away from all the hub-bub of everyday life.

The boys had a blast.  We stayed at the Great Wolf Lodge...a great place if you have little kids.  There was plenty for the boys to do right within the hotel...a water park, an arcade, story time, bunk beds in the room...the list goes on and on.  We also ventured out to see some of the local attractions, breweries and a lighthouse.

Here is a glimpse of our week away:

We also discovered this fabulous bakery called the Grand Traverse Pie Company.  This place was SO good...we couldn't get enough so we went there twice and stopped to bring pies home to eat and share.  The boys decided to enjoy some cookies there instead.

I really tried to go a whole week without couponing...but I just COULD NOT do it, so we picked up two Sunday papers in Michigan and I gave the ads a gander looking for anywhere that I could get a quick fix.  Of course, Target was my fix of choice.  I was also able to pick up some dryer sheets and free packets of tide to do some laundry on vacation (because what vacation isn't complete without a couple of loads of laundry squeezed in).  Here is my little fix for a grand total of $1.51 with tax:

• 7-2 packs Sharpie Markers $7.00.  Used 7 $1/1 Target printables = FREE
• 2 travel sizeTide $1.94.  Used 2 $1/1 = $0.06 OVERAGE
• 1 Up & Up box dryer Sheets = $1.37

On our way back home, we stopped back in Holland to pick up our candle and some other Dutch goodies and hang for a while to help break up the trip.  They had street performers in the downtown area, so we took a wander to check it out....the boys had a blast!  It was a great end to an awesome vacation.

Watching the ventriloquist

Logan loved the Juggler

A stop at Kilwin's for some Superman ice cream

Whenever I think about vacation, I think about the movie What About Bob?...here is a little clip:)  ENJOY

Oh Target, How Do I Love Thee...

I love Target!  I know I have said it before, but I really do love Target...they have anything you could ever want and a plethora of coupons to satisfy my every craving (did I mention my affection for all the clearance end-caps too?).  Today, I came upon a deal at Target....a deal I have been waiting for...a deal that no one had blogged about...a deal I found all on my lonesome...a deal I had been holding onto my precious coupons for.  I was so excited I almost couldn't control myself...my patience was going to pay off (sometimes good things really do come to those who wait).  Sound a little dramatic??  Of course, but I gotta be me and that's how I roll:)

Here is what I picked up at the Target today.  I had to do two transactions to make full use of all my coupons and gift cards:

Transaction #1:

• 10-4 packs Schick Quattro Dispoable Razors $69.90.  Used 5 $1/1 q's and 5 B1G1 q's ($6.99/1) = $29.90 (with tax my total came to $33.26)

I did get $0.05 off my total for using a reusable bag as well.  The icing on this cake was that for every two packs of disposable razors you bought, you got a $5.00 Target gift card...which is good as cash in my house.  So I handed over $33.26 to the cashier and in turn she handed me back $25.00 in gift cards for an end cost of only $8.26 for 40 razors (only $0.21/razor...YIPPIE)...did I mention that these are normally only 3 packs, but these were the bonus packs with an extra razor each.  Is it Christmas???  I feel like it's Christmas.

Transaction #2:

• 1-3 pack Huggies Wipes $6.49.  Used Target cat $1/1 and manufacturer q .50/1 = $4.99
• 1 swimsuit cover-up $17.48 on clearance.  Used Target q $3/1 clothing item = $14.48
• 1 Eucerin Aquafor Ointent $7.49
• 1 travel size Skintimate Shave Gel (with free razor) $1.47.  Used printable .75/1 = $0.72 (the bonus on this one is when I unwrapped it there was $1.55 worth of q's for more razors and shave gel...BONUS)
• 1 Oral-B Stages Toothbrush $2.59.  Used Target q $1/1 = $1.59
• 1 travel size contact solution $1.99
• 1-2 pack contact solution $4.59 (I had a $1/1 q that I totally forgot to use on this and that just pisses me off....but thanks to the razor high, I was able to let it go...well, sort of)

I got another $0.05 off my total for using a reusable bag.  My total before the $25.00 in gift cards was 38.58.  I paid $13.58 OOP. 

A very successful day for couponing...razors are one of those necessities that are always costly, so when I can pick them up super cheap it makes my day...I am still feeling a little coupon stoke:)

Ohhh, I almost forgot to share my little Pier 1 freebie.  They had a printable for $10/$10 purchase (no longer available).  This one was too good to pass up, so I printed it and off I went with the kiddos.  I found some cute coasters for our newly redecorated bedroom for FREE!

Target Freebies...Round Three

The hubs was supposed to have off today, but the call for overtime came and we can always use the extra cash...so off he went to work which left me with some free time today to make another pit stop at Target.  The boys and I ran some errands after swim lessons this morning and stopped at our favorite bulls-eye before wandering home.  Here are the freebies and cheapies we picked up today for $13.93 OOP:

• 6-10 packs Papermate Pens $6.00.  Used 6 Target printables $1/1 = FREE
• 2 Scotch Tape $1.00.  Used 2 Target printables .50/1 = FREE
• 2-1 lb. containers of strawberries $3.58.  Used 2 printables .50/1 Driscoll's product = $2.58
• 2 Lipton Secrets Onion Soup Mix $ 2.58.  Used 2 printables $1/1 = $0.58
• 2-20 count Tampax Pearl $ 7.98.  Used Target q $1/2 and manufacturer q $3/2 = $3.98
• 1 Swiffer Dust & Shine $3.49  Used $1/1 from P&G mailer = $2.49
• 1 Swiffer Duster Starter Kit $4.49.  Used $1/1/ from P&G mailer = $3.49

I think I am officially out of tape q's...for now...and I didn't need anymore pens, but the hubs can always use them for work.  I saved a total of $16.00 in q's.  I think I am done with Target for the week...maybe...

Target Freebies....Round Two

On Tuesday the 19th I headed back to Target for some more freebies and cheapies.  Here is what I picked up for $11.93 OOP:

• 12  Vitamin Water $12.00.  Used 4 Target printable for B2G1 = $8.00
• 1-6 pack Smartwater $5.54.  Target promotion, buy 10 Vitamin Water get a 6 pack of Smartwater = FREE
• 6 Travel Size Wet Wipes $5.94.  Used 6 Target printables .50/1 = $2.94
• 2 Scotch Tape $1.00.  Used 2 Target Printables .50/1 = FREE

You know I couldn't pass up more free tape!  I saved a total of $13.59 in store q's and promos.  All the bottles of water are for our vacay.  One of my many quirks is the need to have several open beverages floating around at any given time (I like a little variety, what can I say?)....and vacation is no exception.  Thank goodness out hotel room has a mini fridge:)

Target Freebies....Round One

I just love back to school time...there are always good freebies and cheapies to be had.  This year Target has sweetened the deal with all of the printables that are perfectly matching with their sales.  Here is some of what I picked up at Target today:

Unfortunately, my trip to Target this go around ended up costing me about $90.00.  I needed a slew of diapers as I have ran out of my stockpile and have not come along on a good sale...so back to the Target diapers I go...

I did manage to pick up some more free Zantac and the two $0.50 pillows to stuff my custom made shams that should be on their way over the boarder from Canada.  I cannot wait to see them in the master bedroom along with their curtain counterparts. The bedroom is coming along well, now I just need an awesome comfy chair for my little reading nook and some motivation to start on the bathroom.

Here is what my little goodies above cost me:

• 12-10 packs of Bic pens $6.00.  Used 6 $1/2 manufacturer printables = FREE
• 4 Travel Size packs of Wet Wipes $3.98.  Used 4 .50/1 Target printables = $1.98
• 1 box Snackwell's Caramel Corn snack packs $2.79.  Used $1/1 Target printable and $1/1 manufacturer q from mailer = $0.79
• 5 rolls Scotch Tape $2.50.  Used 5 .50/1 Target printables = FREE

I spent around $4.00 with tax for all those goodies.  Now I have pens to get me through another year and some more free tape (not that I needed anymore...but free tape seems to be my kryptonite.  I just cannot resist it and it is the one item I will excessively stock up on despite knowing that I couldn't possibly need anymore...and now they have them in pink dispensers!  What's a girl to do?!?!?!)  

The Snackwell's and travel size Wet Wipes are both for our upcoming vacay.  And let's face it, I am a neat freak with two boys...I am constantly cleaning up some sort of mess, so I rarely turn down Wet Wipes.  I have them stowed everywhere!

I have some more tape q's burning a hole in my organizer, so back to Target I go with a stop at my favorite Hallmark to pick up the free ornament I won from a drawing at the 2011 ornament debut.  I am a Hallmark and Keepsake Ornament junkie...I think I might need a second tree this year to fit them all on...

Vacation Junk Food Stock-Up

This week is pretty slow in the deal department.  Not much out there that is catching my eye.  But I am an addict in need of a fix after all and I can always get a fix at the Target where there is always something I can add to my stockpile.  Target is at the top of my list of favorite stores....ok, it is my favorite store.  You can pretty much find anything there, there is always clearance...and the best part...you can stack manufacturer q's with the plethora of Target q's that are here, there and EVERYWHERE.  You can print them, clip them and await their arrival in the mail.  Target is my Cheers...where they really do know my name.

Here is what I picked up today for $28.05 OOP:

I hit the $1.00 Spot first and picked up some little treat bags for the boys for vacation.  They had some really cute Cat In The Hat bags and some SpongeBob and Phineas and Ferb coloring books.  A good start for a goody bag that will hopefully keep them occupied in the car for a little while.  I also picked up some sand molds for the beach for a grand total of $8.00.

Onto the rest of my goodies:

• 4-2packs Sharpie Markers $4.00.  Used 4 Target printables for $1/1 Sharpie purchase = FREE
• 1 green pepper $0.89
• 1 container sour cream $1.09
• 1 quart Buttermilk $1.79
• 3 bags Ore-Ida Sweet Potato Fries $5.38 after the B2G1 promo at Target.  Used a q from a Facebook mailer for a free bag = $2.69 
• 3 large boxes Pop-Tarts $7.50.  Used a printable $2/3 and a Target printable for $1/3 = $4.50
• 2 Newton Thins $6.58.  Used 2 Target printables for $1/1 and 2 q's $1/1 = $2.58
• 1-3 pack Up & up baby wipes $4.69.  Used Target printable $1/$3 Up & Up purchase = $3.69
• 3-9ct. boxes Bagel Bites $7.77.  Used 3 Target printables for $1/1 and 3 manufacturer printables $1/1 = $1.77

Certainly not the cheapest Target run in my history, but I was pretty happy with my take of goodies.  I saved a total of $23.53 in q's, store q's and store promos. 

Hopefully the deals pick up with Thursday's ads...this slow pace is starting to take its toll on me and my coupon organizer is bursting with printable dollars ready to be used.  Fingers crossed:)

It's been slow going

Not much has been happening on the coupon front these past couple of weeks which is fine because I have totally been preoccupied with the Master Bedroom redo.  I have picked up some awesome finds and cannot wait to see it all come together! Here is a sneak peak of a few:

I know my coupon lull is the calm before the storm of July 4th sales.  I am taking the time to rally the troops in preparation for the big sales.  I have cleaned out the coupon organizer and kept up-to-date on all my printables...now I sit and wait.   Holidays are always a good time to stock up on paper goods, soda and hot dogs...we'll see what else is up for grabs next week.

I have gotten some little fixes here and there.  I picked up two sets of sheets for the boys at Target on Tuesday for $13.98 a set for fulls....not too bad.  They were on clearance for $18.98 and I had two Target printables for $5/1 Home bedding.  They were originally $37/set so I was happy with my $23 savings on each or $46 total...WOOHOO!  ALWAYS print a coupon if you have the slightest inkling you can use it.  They often disappear even though their expiration dates may be far off and you will end up kicking yourself later for not printing it when you could.

On an end note...my paper man has been on his best behavior and my Beacon-Wielding Thief has taken a little siesta....but I am awaiting his return, he surely won't stay away forever.  I think my hubs is missing The Beacon, he asked me if I wanted to get a subscription when we got a post card in the mail offering up the Friday and Sunday edition for only a $1/week for 26 weeks.  In return, they will give you a $10 Home Depot gift card so in the end it only costs $16.  My thoughts on this, Why would I pay for a paper I already get for free?  I'm just saying....

A So-So Monday

I was off as usual this morning to get my Monday morning coupon fix.  I made a total of four stops.  First stop, Jewel:

Not much to be had (I did pick up a two coupon books with Coca-Cola q's in them to use at my Meijer stop), my grand total was only $6.71.

• 3 lbs Vadalia Onions $2.00
• 1 3/4 lb red grapes $2.58
• 2 bags Rold Gold Pretzels $3.98.  Used $2/2 = $1.98

Next stop, Doms.  Some pretty good shopping over there this week....usually Doms is my least favorite store to shop at, but a deal is a deal.

• 2 Boxes Raisin Bran $1.98 (loaded J4U q for 2 Raisin Bran at $0.99/box).  Used 2 .70/1 printable = $.58
• 4 Honest Tea drinks $3.58.  Used 2 B1G1 printables = $1.78
• 3 rolls Reynolds Wrap $7.47 (loaded a J4U q for 3 rolls @ $2.49/roll)  Used 3 $1/1 = $4.47
• 1 Angel Soft 12ct toilet Paper (used a store q for $4.99/package).  Used .50/1 = $4.49
• 1 Viva 6pk. paper towels (used a store q for $4.99/package).  Used a $2/1 printable = $2.99
• 2 3/4 lbs bananas (loaded J4U personalized price $0.49/lb) = $1.38
• 1 avocado = $1.25
• 1 head iceberg lettuce (loaded J4U personalized price) = $0.88
• 8 lbs Navel Oranges $4.99
• 1 sour cream $1.49 (it was taco night hence the avocado & sour cream...plus I picked up those $0.88 tortillas last Thursday)

I also used a printable store q for $1/$5 a produce purchase.  Total OOP $23.98.

Next stop, Meijer.  I decided to do another round of Coca-Cola purchases to pick up 4 more free passes to Brookfield Zoo and some O.K. priced Coke.  Here are the other items I took home:

• 1 Pampers Wipes $2.39.  Used $1/1 q I received in the mail last week = $1.39
• 6 bottles kid's chewable vitamins on sale for B1G1 = $ 16.47
• 5 12pks Coca-Cola $15.00.  Used 2 $2/2 = $11.00

Total OOP was $30.60.  I got back a Custom Meijer Q for $8 off my next health, beauty or cosmetic purchase for a cost of only $8.47 for the vitamins or only $1.41/bottle.  This will last the kiddos for 6 months (1 bottle per month)....not to bad.  Plus, I got my second set of tickets to the Zoo.  Overall, I spent $20 on 10-12pks of Coke and 8 passes to Brookfield Zoo.  I think that is a pretty good deal and we have Coke for quite a while.

Last stop, Target...the Mecca...my Homeland...a couponer's crack.  I just cannot get enough of that big, red bullseye.  I am, after all, an addict.  I have to admit that sometimes I get a bit embarrassed as I cruise past the pharmacy perusing the clearance end caps and see all the familiar pharmacy staff looking back at me.  They must think I am a crazy shopaholic....at least I am doing it for a greatly reduced cost. 

Anyhow, here is what I picked up at my final stop for the day for a total cost of $16.96:

• 4-24 ct Up & Up Ibuprofen $3.98.  Used 4 $1/1 Target printables = FREE
• 2 Scrubbing Bubbles Foaming Shower Cleaner $6.98.  Used 2 $1.50/1 printables = $3.98
• 4 Nivea Happy Sensations Lotion $20.16.  Used 4 $1/1 Target printables and 4 $3/1 q's = $4.16
• 2 Tres Semme Hairspray $6.68.  Used 2 $1/1 Target printables = $4.68
• 1 5ct Zyrtec $5.29.  Used q from mailer last week for FREE 5ct. Zyrtec = FREE (this is for my BFF...gotta help a girl out)
• 1 5ct Swiffer Duster Starter Kit $4.49.  Used target q .75/1 and $2/1 = $1.74

I also got another $0.05 off for using a reusable bag.  

Overall, not my best round of deals but I saved at least 50% or more at each of the stops I made and that equals deals in my book.  Off to bed...Happy Couponing:)

P.S.  My paper delivery man has now made it for TWO WHOLE WEEKS without screwing up my papers or leaving behind the cursed Beacon...everyone keep their fingers crossed he keeps it up!

Friday Finds

I ventured out to Target for a birthday gift for my niece and picked up some nice little extras to put in my care package to the tornado victims as well as some overage to cut down the cost of my other goodies.  Here is what I picked up:

• 11 22-ct. Carefree Pantyliners $10.67.  Used 11 Target q's for $0.01 packages = $0.11
• 4 Revlon Nail Clippers $9.36.  Used 3 Target q's $2/1 and 2 manufacturer q's $5/2 = $6.64 MONYMAKER
• 1 Revlon Nail Buffer $2.99.  Used $2/1 = $0.99
• 1  package Revlon Nail files $1.47.  Used $2/1 = $0.53 MONEYMAKER
• 1 toddler swim shirt $8.00
• 1 small caddy $1.00
• 1 Polly Pockets gift set $13.28 (on clearance)
• 1 green bathroom caddy $2.99

Got another $0.10 off for using reusable bags.  Grand total was $21.58.  I saved $30.66 in coupons.  All of the pantyliners and nail clippers were added to my tornado victims care package.  The box is almost full and ready to be shipped.  Just gonna add a few more goodies for those in need.

I also made a quick stop at Walgreens to pick up some cheap Mr. Clean Magic Erasers.

• 1 2-ct Extra Power Magic Eraser $2.61.  Used .75/1 = $ 1.86
• 4 2-ct Original Magic Eraser $7.76.  Used 4 $1.50/1 = $1.76

Grand total with tax was $4.48 and I got back a $3.00 OYNO Catalina (Walgreens calls them Register Rewards or RR) for an end cost of only $1.48 or about $0.30 per box!

Not bad for a little Friday jaunt:)  Happy Mother's Day to all my mommy's out there...ENJOY!

Karmic Shopping Highlights

Friday my BFF, Tracy, and I racked up some girlie time shopping and grabbing some coffee and apps.  We hit up some of my favorite stores to piddle around in sans kiddos.  We also had some great shopping karma on our side and we were able to pick up some awesome finds at great prices.  I already briefed you on my "Royal" Deal, so I will get right to the other highlights.

First stop, Pottery Barn in search of some new Master Bedroom bedding.  I have been on a kick to redecorate the second floor.  We have already redone the boys' room and laundry room and I have some ideas for the office area and the hub's guitar nook, but my focus right now is the master bedroom and revamping the walk-in closet.  My color palate inspiration came to me in the form of a Kleenex box (that I purchased with a coupon of course).

Here is the basic bedding I picked up at Pottery Barn, on sale:)  I envision the walls a light gray and the bedding and decor accented with ivories, lime green and a few other surprises.  But this isn't a decorating blog, it is a coupon blog...so let's get to the deals.

A few months ago, I bought the boys' bedding from Pottery Barn Kids (I am a bit of a Pottery Barn addict) and ordered some curtains to go with it.  I had scored a $150 gift card to PBK by trading in some AMEX points we had accrued.  Well, when the bedding arrived the curtains were a no-go, so I sent them back for a refund.  About two weeks later I received a gift card in the mail for $150.  I was a little confused because my refund should have only been about $140 and I was under the impression it would go back on my credit card...so I gave them a call and inquired as to why they sent me back a gift card.

The customer service lady explained to me that they had already refunded $189 to my credit card and sent the $150 gift card back to me to make up the difference....making this a total refund of $339.  I was a bit dumbfounded by the math and informed her that I should only have gotten back about $140...that is when I got the "can you hold a moment please" response.

About 5 minutes later, she comes back on the line and explains to me that it appears they not only refunded the amount of the curtains, but also the 4 shams I purchased and the shipping charges and since it was their mistake they were going to let me keep the extra refund and the gift card.....winner, winner chicken dinner...honesty really does pay off!

So after that long rambling explaination, you can see why my bedding was such a deal...I used the $150 gift card Pottery Barn gifted back to me and found some sale bedding that will serve as the basis for my revamp.  In the end, I was able to pick up a king comforter and 3 euro shams for $155...a steal at Pottery Barn.

Next stop was Hallmark.  I am a bit of a Hallmark junkie.  I love all of the brick-a-bract and knick-knacks they have floating around there.  I am also a Hallmark Gold Crown member which rewards you for every card you buy and sends you gift checks in the mail.  If you buy in 3's, you get an extra 100 points for each 3 you buy = bigger rewards (and the $0.99 cards count in this deal).  You can sign up here if you haven't already.  I was able to pick up 12 cards (earning myself an extra 400 points) and a nice little note pad set for only $27...which is pretty good at Hallmark.  I used a $8.00 gift check, and $5/$20 purchase coupon they had emailed me as well as a coupon for a free notepad set with a $25 purchase I had received in the mail.

If you get this as a little gift, please don't be offended...it is cute and would normally cost $12.95 if that makes you feel a little better.  I ended up saving $25.95 in coupons, about 50% savings.  

On a side note, as I am perusing the cards I hear a woman ask me "do you have your coupons?"...I am thinking, how does she know I am an addict?  Is it that obvious?  Am I  marked with a big scarlet "C"?  As I turn around, she says to me "Remember me from the Meijer?".  

A few weeks ago, T went on a little Meijer trip with me to pick up some cheap Peter Pan peanut butter, some eggs for Easter and some Cheez-Its.  As we are at the self- check out, I hear a woman ask me "What are you doing with all that peanut butter and eggs?  It looks fun".  I explain I am doing nothing with it.  That I am a couponer and I am stockpiling it because it is a good deal.  She exuberantly tells me she is a couponer too and we revel in the greatness of coupons.

Back to Hallmark...she then asks me if we had received the 20% off coupon.  T and I in sync both ask, "What 20% off coupon?".  She than offers up two of the mailers as they had some extras.  We later used this coupon at the Houlihan's for some yummy apps, since it was good for a number of stores and restaurants in the Geneva Commons shopping mall.

Moral of the long-winded story...couponers stick together and I have now made a new friend at the Geneva Hallmark:)

Last stop of the night was Target, as I was in need to more hairspray...another shocker, I know:)  As we cut down the cleaning aisle, I catch that Finish Quantum Dishwashing Tabs are on sale for $2.51 and I had 4 Q's for $1.75/1 that I printed off of a Finish Facebook promotion a week back.  I was able to take home 4-10ct boxes for $3.04 ($0.76/box).  I was pleased as I was starting to run low and feared I may have to pay too much for a much needed item in our house.

At the end of the day, we had some great girlie time, some good karma and a quite a few cheap goodies to show for ourselves.  Thanks TT for always going on my coupon adventures with me...I couldn't ask for a better BFF and coupon sidekick!