I'm keeping my cash!

A change in how I do things

2010-11-05T13:21:00.000-05:00

Well, I guess by now everyone has figured out that I haven't been blogging very much- or not at all. We all have busy and stressful lives and I am no exception.

For some reason this school year has been challenging to me. It is taking me more time to get everyone organized, lunches made, dinner done, homework done and then it's on to the house. My house is chaotic now, and it is overflowing into how I feel.

NOT CALM. The chaos has led to me feeling very stressed. My health has once again been affected and I got strep throat again last week.

So I have decided to call it quits on this blog. I just end up feeling guilty for neglecting it which stresses me out even more.

But I can't leave the deals all together! So I started a fan page on facebook that is much easier to post on and will use that to highlight any local deals. You can "like" the page and then any updates I make will be listed on your news feed. I thought this might be easier all together since it seems everyone is on facebook. Here is the link: it is "Kendra's coupon deals around Portage".

Thanks to everyone who has followed this blog and encouraged me along the way. Feel free to leave the details of any deals you find on the "wall" of my page on facebook!

Family Dollar Deals

2010-10-01T20:27:00.000-05:00

In case you haven't heard, the Family Dollar store in Portage is going out of business. They are still accepting coupons, so you may want to check it out to see if you can find any good deals!

They are open until the 27th, or until everything is gone.

Thanks for the heads up Vicki!

A couple Walgreens deals

2010-09-22T12:46:00.000-05:00

Here a couple deals that I found at Walgreens this week that I thought I would share...

Trash bags $2.99 (a great price I think)
Maxwell House instant coffee $3.99, there was a new $1 IP released yesterday so $2.99 ea
Gain dishsoap $0.89 with ad coupon, $1 MQ to make it a moneymaker
Captain Crunch small boxes $1 each, used $1/2 IP to make them 50 cents
Koolaid fizzers $1.49 on clearance, used $1 MQ = $0.49
Thermacare $2.49, used $1 IP and got $1.50 in RR = free
Carmex $2.99, used $1 IP and $2 RR = free

Good luck finding deals of your own!

Saving for Christmas UPDATE!!!

2010-09-09T20:48:00.000-05:00

Way back at the beginning of the year, I posted a goal about how I wanted to pay for Christmas gifts this year by using a combination of rewards from Mypoints and Swagbucks. The original post is here.

Here is a review of how these plans are going.

Mypoints: This site lets you earn "points" by clicking to read emails, complete surveys, or shop online through many companies by going through their website. So far this year I have only read emails. I didn't complete any surveys (they are worth more points) or any online shopping (as I've been trying to save that $). I redeemed my points the other day and am getting a $25 gift card to Kmart. That will be handy for Christmas shopping!

To sign up for mypoints, shoot me an email at kendralacrosse@ymail.com and I can email you the link.

Swagbucks: This is an internet search engine that awards "bucks" periodically when you use it to find websites. It has a toolbar that you can download that makes it super easy to use. I have had no problems with the toolbar at all! In addition, they often email free codes that you can enter to earn more bucks and you can shop a ton of online retailers to earn bucks.

I use Swagbucks almost exclusively to search for websites that I follow daily instead of listing them as 'favorites'. This way I use the search engine more. I probably earn an average of 30-50 Swagbucks daily by doing this.

Once you have a bunch of swagbucks in your account, you can redeem them for giftcards or other prizes. This week I decided to redeem my bucks in order to get ready for Christmas shopping and was able to get $75 in Amazon giftcards. I love this because Amazon runs tons of deals before Christmas!

To sign up for Swagbucks you can click here or click on the "Swagbucks" button on the top right of my blog.

Alice: Alice.com is a website where you can shop for tons of items and get them shipped to your house for FREE. They also have manufacture coupons that they deduct automatically- no clipping involved. Initially the site had mostly non-food items like tissue, toothpaste and other paper products. But now they have lots of non-perishable food items as well. I have ordered from Alice.com and was impressed with the speed of delivery! And I love getting packages! The prices may not always be the lowest around, but if you run low on time for shopping it is a great solultion!

To sign up for an account on Alice.com, click here. Once you spend $50 at Alice.com, you get a $10 credit in your account.

To Recap: I am getting.....

$25 GC to Kmart (from Mypoints)
$75 GC to Amazon (from Swagbucks)

Just from using it since January! And neither account was completed depleted of points so I may earn even more before Christmas even gets here!

If you want more information about any of these programs, feel free to email me at kendralacrosse@ymail.com and I'd be happy to explain!

Disclosure: clicking on my links above may let me earn points through their referral programs.

Pierce's Highlights

2010-09-09T18:32:00.000-05:00

Here are the weekly deals at Pierce's according to me. Be sure to check out the Piggly Wiggly flyer as well as there are some coupon deals there too.

Don't forget that Walmart will price match to Piggly Wiggly or Pierce's for the same item. Be sure to bring the flyer in and tell them before they ring it up. They will not match an ad coupon though.

Page one
----------
Hormel Pork Loin chops $1.78/lb, use the $1 MQ for Hormel pork to get a good deal
Green or red grapes $0.98/lb
Crystal Farms chunk or shredded cheese $1.66
Yoplait yogurt $0.50

Page two
----------
Azteca flour tortillas $1.18
Daisy sour cream 16 oz $1.66
Ore Ida potatos or onion rings $2.50

Page three
-----------
10 for $10 "Topcare" items, a fair price for some of these items if you are running low
Old Orchard juice $2, use BIGI if Healthy blend is included
Quaker items on sale- use the MQ in ad to get $3 off 5 items
Fuze drink $1, use $0.75 MQ (from Kwik Trip?)

Page four
---------
Ortega taco seasoning $0.66, use $0.50 MQ to get super cheap
Brocolli $0.78/lb
Grape tomatoes $1.50

There they are folks. Happy grocery shopping!

Cheap Malt o Meal cereal

2010-09-08T19:36:00.000-05:00

If you picked up the $0.50 coupons for Malt-o-meal cereal from Kwik Trip in the last few weeks, you should know this....

At Walmart (in the back by the dairy) the strawberry mini-shredders (mini wheats) are only $1. Only
50 cents after coupon!

Pierce's Highlights for the week

2010-09-01T20:47:00.000-05:00

Yes, it's a new week and I actually have time today to post! As always, these are the deals according to me so be sure to check out the ad for yourself.

Page one
---------
Ground beef $1.68/lb
Shurfresh cream cheese $0.88
Peaches/nectarines $0.98/lb
Chicken breasts $4.88 for 3# bag
Lay's chips $1.98
**coupon for $2 when you buy 4 pepsi 12 packs

Page two
---------
Hormel sirloin pork chops or roast $1.88/lb, use $1 MQ to get some cheap!
Tombstone pizza $3.33
Old Orchard frozen juice conc $0.98
Crystal Farms string cheese $2.50
Kraft shredded cheese $2, use $1/2 IP

Page three
----------
Bush's baked beans $1.50
Sweet baby Rays BBQ $0.98
Old Dutch chips $2
Suddenly salad mixes $1

Page four
---------
*in ad coupon for 2 free "10 for $10" items when you buy 10. Many items to choose from, mix or match

Puff's tissues $0.98, use $0.25 MFQ

Page five
---------
*ad coupon for poptarts $3- when you buy two, also use $1/3 MQ
Koolaid $0.12
Knorr rice sides $1
Bear Creek soups $2.88 (these are pretty good!)
Valu time condensed soups $0.48
Caprisun or Kool aid Jammers $2, use $1/2 MQ for Caprisun

Page six
--------
Cantaloupe $1.50
Squash $0.48/lb
Green peppers $0.98/lb

That is all I see for now. Happy shopping!

On blogging and summer and school

2010-08-31T21:30:00.000-05:00

Hey readers! Once again time has gotten away from me. I have let the blogging get pushed aside in favor of summer, playing with the kids, birthdays and the upcoming start of school! Forgive me. I hope to get back into a routine soon.

I also want you to know why I have this blog. I started blogging to share my deals and teach others how they too can save money. I don't blog to make money. I have never made a single CENT off this blog. Sure, there are ads on here, but nothing has ever been paid to me. I will continue to blog for as long as I enjoy it. However, when my life dictates it - the blog is pushed aside in favor of family. I hope you can understand that.

That is all- I hope you are enjoying the end of the summer and having fun.

Happy deal making!

Pierce's Highlights for the week

2010-08-18T20:34:00.000-05:00

Another week is upon us, and it looks like the deals are weak as well. As always, these are the deals as I see them. Be sure to check out the ads for yourself.

Page one
---------
Ground Chuck $1.88/lb in 3# or more packs
Dole salads $1.50
Cantaloupe $1.50

Page two
---------
Hormel pork roast or steaks $1.68/lb
Banquet chicken nuggets $3.88- it's a pretty big bag

Page three
-----------
* 10/$10 items*: pepsi 2L, dole pineapple (MQ available), starkist tuna, David's bagels, barilla pasta

Musselman's apple sauce cups $1.88, use $1/2 MQ
*ad coupon for free tostitos when you buy 3 pepsi 12 packs

Page four
---------
Earthbound farms Romaine hearts $2.28, use $1/2 IP
Navel oranges $0.50 each
Pears $0.78/lb
Dole celery $0.88
Beef steak tomatoes $0.98/lb
cucumbers 3/$0.99

Have a great week everyone!

Pierce's Highlights....finally

2010-08-13T11:34:00.000-05:00

I apologize about the lateness of this post. I am changing internet providers and having trouble getting my printer and wireless setup. In fact, my first router started on fire when I plugged it in! Not having good luck.

Anyway, better late than never, here are the deals according to me- hint: not a ton of good deals.

Page one
---------
Rib Pork chops or roast $1.88/lb
grapes $0.98/lb
Cauliflower $0.98/lb
TJ Farms Hash Browns $1.50

Page two
---------
Banquet brown-n-serve sausage $1
Welch's frozen concentrate juice cocktail $0.98
Shurfine frozen veggies $1

Page three
-----------
Koolaid/countrytime lemonade $1.88, use $1/2 MQ
Shurfine pudding snacks $0.98
Welch's grape jelly $1.88
TJ Farms fruit snacks $1

Page four
----------
Cucumbers 3/$0.99
Dole iceberg lettuce $0.98
Earthbound farms organic carrots $1.58, use $1/2 IP
Fresh Blueberries $1.78 for pint
Pepsi 12 packs $3.50, use in ad coupon for buy 3, get 1 diet 12 pack free

That is it folks. As you can see, not many coupon deals. Have a great weekend, stay cool and dry!

Mad/Crazy Deals again!!!

2010-08-10T22:02:00.000-05:00

I noticed these crackers on sale at Kwik Trip 3/$1. I had coupons (from a tear pad) that I've held for a long time. The coupons were for $0.60/2.

Since they were essentially $0.33 each -- I got them for only 3 cents each!

I may have bought 30+ of these in the peanut butter cracker flavor............

School is coming and the kids love them!! (and the expiration date is end of November)

Kmart Cereal deal

2010-08-07T14:03:00.000-05:00

Check out the weekly Pierce's post comment.

Apparently Kmart has a good deal on General Mills cereal this week. Their sale ends today, so I hope you have time to pick up cereal really cheap!!

A fun freebie for the kids!

2010-08-07T14:00:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Jessica for this freebie for the kids.

http://kids.nationalgeographic.com/kids/activities/new/big-book-of-fun/

Free National Geographic big book of fun. Just need 4 UPC numbers from Popsicle products or any suave kids products or Skippy peanut butter product.

I haven't had a chance to check it out yet, but I will later today!

Pierce's Highlights for the week

2010-08-04T19:34:00.000-05:00

It appears to be produce week at Pierce's so plan on some deals on fruits and veggies. Here are the deals according to me.

Page one
---------
sweet corn 5/$1.00
Cantaloupe $1.50
Bananas $0.38/lb
braeburn apples $0.88/lb
Dole iceberg lettuce $0.78
Pears $0.88/lb
Plum/peaches/nectarines $0.98/lb
Hormel country spareibs $1.88/lb

Page two
----------
Hormel pork chops/roast $1.88/lb
Shurfresh corn dogs $1.50
Oscar Mayer hotdogs $1.50, use $1/2 MQ
Gold n' Plump wings/legs/thighs $2.50, use $1 MQ
frozen Wild Pollack fillets $1.88/lb
Crystal Farms butter 1# $1.98

Page three- 4 DAY SALE ITEMS
-----------
Big buy bacon 1# $1.18 (what??? super cheap that is!)
Tostitos tortilla chips $2.50

Page four
----------
(ok, there is a bunch of Kellogg's items on sale but the prices aren't so hot. Here's what to do. Pick up those Kellogg's items at Piggly Wiggly where they are cheaper and generating a coupon towards your next purchase. Then submit that receipt for the Kellogg's rebate on the Pierce's ad)

ad coupon for buy 10 get 11th free for the following: hunts bbq sauce, chef boyardee, manwich, pudding and Crunch 'n Munch.

Page five
---------
Peter Pan PB $1.50
dole fruit bowls $2, use $2/6 IP from smartsource.com
ad coupon for Ragu jar for $0.98

Page six
--------
Broccoli $0.88

That is all for now folks. Be sure to check out the Piggly Wiggly ad as they have some good deals this week! Happy Shopping!

Some Amazing Target Deals

2010-07-30T21:23:00.000-05:00

I had a chance to run to Target without kids so I spent a couple days planning and I think I did a pretty good run.

The pictures above are of the same stuff, but different angles to fit it all in.

There were a few items that I bought that we needed and didn't have coupons for. Including those items (in the picture) I spent a total of $63.38 and saved $136.61!

I will highlight a couple of the notable items:

Freebies:
Olay soap
Chefboyardee cups
hair spray
Shampoo
Always pantyliner
Wonka chocolate bars
bic pens/pencils
Crystal Light

Other finds include:
Aquafresh toothpaste was $0.37 after coupons
Bagel Bites $0.24 after coupons
Synders pretzels $0.24-$0.59 after coupons
Wheat thins $1
Ritz crackerfuls $1
Kashi bars $0.88
Nature Valley bars $0.39
Ortega taco shells $0.50
Juicy Juice boxes $0.88

I also stocked up on some more school supplies that were on sale for my crafting kids. Luckily right now their school supplies are covered by a grant for the school, so I buy them up for our own use!

I think I did a pretty good job. I got quite a few items for packing lunches which will start before we know it!

Have you gotten any good deals lately?

Pierce's Highlights for the week

2010-07-28T20:51:00.000-05:00

Time for another match-up already.

Page one
---------
Ground beef $1..78/lb
seedless grapes $0.98/lb
Kemps 1/2 gallon milk $1
Pillsbury cinnamon rolls $1 each, use $1/2 IP
Skippy peanut butter $0.98 with ad coupon, limit one

Page two
---------
Farmland bacon $2.98
Shurfresh string cheese $2.98
Kemps singles ice cream $0.80 each, use $1/3 MQ
Old Orchard concentrate lemonade $0.78

Page three
----------
Hershey chocolate bars $2.50
Honey Maid grahams $2.50
Jet puffed marshmallows $0.98-----use $1 MQ when you buy Hershey, grahams and marshmallows
Smucker's grape jelly $1.88
Quaker granola bars $2
Koolaid $0.12, buy 10 plus 4# sugar and use $2 MQ on both
Crystal Light $2, use $2 MQ from vocalpoint last month
Shurfine applesauce $1.25

Page four
---------
Bartlett Pears $0.98/lb
Earthbound farms organic salad $2.88, use $1/2 IP
Cabbage $0.28/lb

Those are the deals according to me. Happy shopping!

Malt-o-Meal cereal deal

2010-07-28T19:43:00.000-05:00

Kwik Trip has several coupons on the racks in their store. Next time you stop for gas take a peak!

One coupon I recently got there was for $0.50 off any Malt-O-Meal cereal.

The Cinnamon Toasters are currently on sale at Walmart for only $1! Use that coupon to stock up. That is the only flavor of cereal at that price right now.

Free backpacks from Staples!

2010-07-23T21:17:00.001-05:00

Starting Sunday in the new ad, Staples will have backpacks that are free after rebate! Here are the details from their website....

"Buy ANY backpack and get 100% back in a Staples gift card"

The fine print does limit you to one per household.

What a deal! Just in time for school shopping. Offer is good from 7/25-7/31.

While at the website, be sure to check for coupons towards your total purchase!

One of the coupons is for $5 off a $25 purchase. Use this coupon to really score on the backpack!

Email me at kendralacrosse@verizon.net if you can't find a copy of the coupons. I received them in a direct email from Staples and I can forward them to you!

And a thank you to Vickie as well!

Kmart doubles

2010-07-23T21:06:00.000-05:00

Starting Sunday, Kmart will be doubling coupons up to $0.99. The rules are similar to last time; only the first 5 coupons will be doubled and you must scan your rewards card first.

I'm not too excited about this one. Does anyone even have any $0.99 coupons? The best I can do is a $0.75 one. I guess I will probably skip it.

Please let me know if you go and find any deals so I can share with everyone.

Pierce's Highlights of the week

2010-07-22T17:48:00.000-05:00

Here are the highlights for this week of the deals as I see it. There isn't much to go on, a pretty slim week in my opinion. Check out the ad for yourself.

Page one

---------

Pepsi 2 liter $1

Frozen chicken breasts $4.88/3lb

Cantaloupe $1.50

Doritos chips $1.98
Shurfresh ice cream $0.98 with ad coupon (has anyone tried it?)

Page two
---------
Hormel pork butt steaks or roast $1.58/lb
8th Continent soy mild $2.50, use $1.50 IP
Popsicle pops $2.88

Page three
----------
* ad coupon for $5 off when you buy any 10 General Mills products in the same shopping trip. Let me know if you can work out any coupon scenarios to make these cheap. I haven't figured any out yet.
Jif peanut butter $1.98
Barilla pasta or Hunts spaghetti sauce $0.98
* ad coupon for $2 off with buying: charcoal, hidden valley dressing and KC masterpiece. Check maufacture websites to see if there are coupons for these items- could work out into a deal.

Page four
----------
dole lettuce $0.98
Braeburn apples $0.98/lb
Organic raspberries $2.50

Have a great week everyone. Go get the deals.

Sometimes you actually DO get these samples!

2010-07-21T10:05:00.001-05:00

I have seen these offer numerous times on the blogs:

"Get an (box of samples) from SC Johnson and Right@Home"

It's always limited to the first 5000 people to enter and it can take 6-8 weeks to come in the mail.

Oh yeah, and you don't know if you were one of the first 5000 until it comes to your door.

They don't give any kind of response to let you know.

Well, I must have been one of the first 5000 at some point because the above arrived at my door yesterday!!!

Happy Dance, Happy Dance

Yes folks, those are a regular box of Ziploc, a 6 pack of the toilet cleaner and

a big pack of Pledge wipes!!

Pretty good freebie if you ask me. I guess I will keep signing up for these things!

Kmart Christmas card, Toy Clearance and school supply shopping

2010-07-20T22:04:00.000-05:00

Stopped by Kmart today as I heard they are having their toy clearance. The clearance toys are an additional 50% off the ticketed price. The selection is still pretty good and I was able to pick up a few things for my boys.

Additionally I found out about a program Kmart started last year and is going on now. It is similar to having a Christmas Club account at a bank, except with a gift card!

Just start a new card (available at the registers) with at least $20 and add money to the value anytime you wish. On November 15th, Kmart will credit your card with an additional 3% of the value up to $100. The cards should be credited by November 28th. The card doesn't expire, so you can use it for Christmas or anytime! This is a great way to save money for holiday shopping, or even getting school clothes for the kids. Check with the store if you have any questions.

Now is also the season for school supply shopping. Keep your eyes peeled for the deals at each place. Staples, Kmart, Walmart and Walgreens have all had good deals. Remember to price match- just ask the store. I have been able to price match at all except Staples- but check with them too!

If you participate in Operation Christmas Child by filling shoe boxes, school supplies are a hot item. Pick them up now for pennies! Or if you have crafty kids like I do, this is when I try to replenish stock!!

Walgreens deals I nabbed this week

2010-07-20T21:49:00.000-05:00

I'm back in the saddle baby!

Here is what I got this week at Walgreens:

5 Goldfish crackers $0.99- had a raincheck from last week when they were on sale. I had (3) $0.50 IP and (2) $0.35 IP
4 Bic Highlighters $0.49 each, used 2 $1/2 MQ = free
Colgate total $3.49, used $1 MQ and got $3.50 RR = makes it better than FREE
2 paper plates $0.99 with ad coupon
2 Head & Shoulders $4 each, used BOGO MQ and got $1 RR = $1.50 each after coupon and rewards
1 Mountain Dew 4 pack $1.29
1 Pilot pens $1.19, use $1 Q in July coupon booklet

After coupons I paid $13.64 for all of the above. I SAVED $25.80 and I got $4.50 in register rewards to use next week.

An Ode to bathrooms...or why I have been absent and partially crazy

2010-07-19T21:40:00.000-05:00

No, but seriously I need to document my saga in pictures. Feel free to skip this post if you aren't interested.

This is ground zero in the first photo. We took out the vinyl flooring (note the various layers) and were ripping up a layer of plywood. My eldest doesn't understand the subtleties of the bunny ears yet.

Oh, here my husband is wearing a 'strained' look of excitement. We both wore this look for the last several weeks!

Here is my youngest in his construction 'get-up', complete with eye, ear and mouth protection.

This is the bathroom after the texture and paint was done. This was very exciting to me!

At this point you are probably asking yourself "Where did they store the toilet and vanity?

The toilet was just inside the front door (naturally!)

And the vanity was in the master bedroom. Right where everything belonged (dripping with sarcasm!)

Our house is very modest in size and there was NOWHERE else to put this stuff for the last few weeks, which just increased the stress level in the house. Everywhere I looked things were out of place and in the way!

Brace yourself.....here is the big reveal (minus a hanging mirror that I still haven't found. It is really hard to find one that I like.)

New ceramic tile, new door and trim, new shower curtain and rod.

(Vanity, top and toilet were new just 4 months ago so we obviously reused them)

Oh, here is my re-did closet too. The shelves are new, it was painted and new trim up as well.

And another view. As you can tell, all my junk got reloaded back into the bathroom. That was the cheapest job of all! I bribed 3 kids with $1 each to bring it all in for me. Was done in a matter of minutes ~ and happily I might add.

And finally.......one last thing

Scroll down to reveal what

the room looked like

back in February

before the original

remodel.....

I think the new version is much better, don't you?

Update

2010-07-13T22:41:00.000-05:00

My bathroom should be finished Wednesday night......I will hope to get the Pierce's ad reviewed for this week.

I also need to get back on track with my meal planning and budget! This remodel is costing me too much with the exhaustion and eating out!

Stick with me, and we will get back on track this week! I need to stay accountable. Join me!

Life Update

2010-07-01T22:39:00.001-05:00

I'm sitting in my living room completely exhausted and trying to find the energy to blog some deals.....but I just can't.

One week ago tonight we discovered our bathroom floor was flooded. We pulled up the vinyl to discover a lake of water, urine and crud! (wish you were me don't you?)

Three days of horrible smells, ripping out everything in a room we updated only a few months ago and here we are. Plywood floors only in a bare room.

My week has been a flurry of insurance claim filing, procuring a plumber and visits by contractors. My house is suffering BIG time.

The last thing I feel like doing in my little bit of "free time" right now is blogging.

I hope you all will understand that I am taking a week or two off from updating the blog. The next 2 weeks will be busy coordinating all the work that needs to be done.

Check back soon, and I will once again be looking for deals.

Extra coupon inserts

2010-06-29T20:27:00.000-05:00

Does anyone local need some extra coupon inserts from the last couple weeks?

If so, please email Rachel at babyjacob34@yahoo.com.

She has extras available.

Thanks Rachel!

Pierce's Highlights for the week

2010-06-23T19:55:00.000-05:00

Here are the deals as I see them. As always, check out the deals for yourself in case I missed anything!

Page one
---------
Red or Green seedless grapes $0.98/lb
Cantaloupe or Honeydew $1.98 ea
Sweet baby Ray's BBQ sauce $0.98
Doritos or pretzels $1.98
Sara Lee Bread $1.50, a good price for a higher quality bread
Shurfresh chunk or shredded cheese $0.98- STOCK-UP price. put in freezer at this price!

*also, note the Manufacture coupon for $2/4 off Coke 12 packs. Watch for sales elsewhere

Page two
---------
Johnsonville brats $3.50, use MQ ??? $0.55 ???
Hormel country style spareribs $1.88/lb, there is still $1 MQ out there
Gold 'n Plump 1# boneless chicken breast $4, there are $1 IP at gold n plump website
**(although still a little expensive for my taste)
Kraft Philly cream cheese $1.18, use $1 IP from last week online
8th Continent soy milk $2, use $2 IP = free

Page three
----------
Shurfine dill slices $1.50
Country Time drink mix $2, use $1/2 from tearpad
Peter pan peanut butter $1.78
Chicken of the Sea tuna cans $0.75, use $1 IP from last week to get for free or better!
7 up products 2 liters $1
Pepsi products 2 liters $!

Page four
---------
Broccoli $0.98/lb
cucumbers 2/$0.98
Organic mini carrots $1.48, check earthbound farm website for coupons! they came out with some recently!$1/2 was available a week or so ago!

That is all. Let me know if I missed anything!!

In Need of Help

2010-06-18T20:19:00.000-05:00

I am in need of some guidance and was hoping someone out here in cyberspace can help!

About a month ago I bought a stainless steel frying pan (with aluminum core) in an effort to get away from cooking with the chemicals that are in the non-stick teflon.

Everything is either burning or sticking to the bottom no matter what I put in first. I have tried different cooking oils; putting in on while the pan is warm and while it is still cold.

I am just about ready to go back to the teflon pan because this is so frustrating.

Does anyone have any advice for me? Little tricks that work? Anything?????

Please leave a comment on the post. Thank you!

(If you have any questions yourself, I can post yours as well!)

Pierce's Highlights for the week

2010-06-17T21:41:00.000-05:00

Another week is here, and the deals are weak as well. There haven't been many great deals lately. Here are the deals according to Kendra.

Page one
---------
Strawberries/raspberries/black or blueberries $1.66 ea
Van Camp's baked beans $1 (my stock up price)
Coke 2 Liter bottles $1
Betty Crocker Hamburger helper $1, there are $1/3 MQ

Page two
---------
Hormel pork loin chops $1.98/lb
Farmland bacon-wrapped pork filet $1, use $1/4 MQ or better coupons direct from manufacture
Smart Chicken leg quarters $0.78/lb, use $1 IP from last month
Sea Best jumbo breaded shrimp $2.50
Pillsbury crescent rolls $1.88, use $0.70 IP
Old Orchard conc lemonaid $0.78, use $1/4 MQ

Page three
----------
Knorr pasta or rice sides $1, are there coupons?????
Kool-aid packets 8/$1, use MQ to get 2 free when you buy 10
Old orchard juice cocktails $1.25, use $0.50 IP from last week (?)
Skippy peanut butter $1.50 when you buy 2 and use in ad coupon
Kellogg's cereal is cheaper at Pig this week- buy it there instead
Oreo cookies $2.50, yummmmm
Koolaid bursts $1

Page four
---------
Braeburn or gala apples $1.28/lb
Mangoes $0.98
Cut seedless watermelons $0.48/lb

That is all I see everyone. Happy shopping!

Walgreens for the week- Holy Toothbrushes Batman

2010-06-15T20:41:00.001-05:00

I got everything in the picture for only $9.96 after counting the register rewards!!

Here's how.....

2 Cheez-its crackers $0.99, used $1 IP for each = free
1 Shick razor $7.99, used $5 MQ and got back $4 RR = -$1.01
2 Reach total care toothbrushes $4.49, used ad coupon for $3 each plus a $2/2 IP from coupons.com = $ 0.98 for both
5 Reach prevent toothbrushes $0.99 each, used 3- $1 MQ (stuck to product) and 1- $2/2 IP (note: I did not buy all of them even though I was tempted to!) = -$0.05 for all five
1 paper plates $0.99 with ad coupon
1 All detergent $2.99, used $1 IP

The next items were part of a "buy $15 and get $5 in RR" deal....

Lipton tea bags $2.99, used $0.50 MQ
4 Ragu spaghetti sauce $2 ea, used $1/2 MQ
2 Hellmann's mayo (bonus size jars!) $2.50 each, used $1.50/2 from all you magazine

I did two transactions total.

How did you do this week?

A quick stop at Piggly Wiggly

2010-06-15T20:29:00.000-05:00

I made a quick stop at Pig when I was driving through Poynette last weekend. The cheese blocks were an awesome deal ($1.99 for 1#). Of course they were out of the cheddar I wanted but I got a rain check for 8 of them! That ought to hold me awhile.

2 Mozarella chunk $1.99 each
4 Kraft Mac 'n cheese $0.66 each, used $0.55/2 IP =$0.38 each
6 Pillsbury cake mix 5/$4 otherwise $1 each. I bought 6 to = $5 total and used 3 $1/2 MQ to get all 6 for $2!!

My total was $7.52 for this trip.

JCPenney $10 off $10 deal going on now

2010-06-13T11:01:00.000-05:00

So, there is a code right now for JCPenney for $10 off your order. Thanks to Sandra for her scenario below.
JCPenney deal if your interested...this is the second time we have done this, last time it was with the Mothers Day promo code...if you have questions just ask...

Buy something online for around $14.99 (or more if you want)

Enter Coupon code...DADROCKS...and get $10 off a purchase of $10 or more at checkout

That will bring your total to $11.54 (shipping is $5.95, tax and remaining balance after the $10 off)

Then they will offer you after checkout a spot to hit a little red button that says "save $10 off this order"

Sign up for JCP Family Fun Promo, you will need to mail them a copy of your purchase, then they will send you a $10 check back in the mail, which brings your total to $1.54,

(you will need to call and cancel within the month or be charged $9.95 for the program)

but thats not all...

Through JCP you can buy discount gift cards, we bought the gas cards...they let you buy 3 $25 Shell, 3 $25 BP & 3 $25 Mobil gas card for $20 each, saving a total of $45 in free gas! You can also buy discounted cards for Borders, Barnes and Noble, Michaels Crafts and a few others.

Ok, that was as clear as mud, right? :) By doing it 2 times we got $90 in free gas, a few outfits for Brenna and a set of bed sheets for the girls all for free. Gotta love a great deal! :)

Noah's Ark "A" Days- starting NOW

2010-06-13T10:46:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to let you know that the Noah's Ark "A" Day promotion days have been set for June 13, 14, 15, 21, and 22.

As a reward for being a good student, if your report card (grade school, college, or graduate) from the 3rd or 4th quarter that has an "A" on it you can bring it to Noah's Ark Water Park in Wisconsin Dells for one free day admission to the park.

Home schoolers - Create a report card for your kids and bring along a copy of your PI-1206 to prove that you home school.

Thanks Gayle!

Pierce's Highlights

2010-06-10T19:40:00.001-05:00

Yes, this is late...Sorry. Don't worry though, it will also be very short and sweet since I have a lot going on here tonight.

So here goes.....

4 Day sale stuff
---------------
Kellogg's cereal $1.98, use $1/2 IP or $1.50/3 MQ
Shurfresh popsicles $0.98
Surefresh sour cream $0.68
SF cream cheese $0.88

Page one
---------
Kemps 1/2 gallon milk $1
Bananas $0.38/lb
Seedless grapes $1.48/lb
Lay chips $2.50

Page two
---------
Wild Alaskan cod fillets $3.98/lb
Banquet chicken nuggets $2

Page three
----------
Old Orchard juice $2, there is a coupon out there, unsure of value
Hi C juice boxes $1.66

Page four
---------
Dole salad bags $1.50
2lb Green Giant baby carrots $1.98
Canteloupe $2.28

That is all for now, happy shopping!

Walgreens from last week

2010-06-07T16:06:00.000-05:00

I realize this was from last week, but I thought I would still share as I try to catch up on my posts.

Quaker Oats BOGO $3.19, used (2) $1 IP to get both for $1.19 total
Kotex U tampons $3.49, used $1 MQ- got $2.50 register reward to = free
Aluminum foil $0.59 each with ad
Lysol Cleaner BOGO (rain check from previous week) $2.99, used (2) $1 IP to = $0.99 for both
Butterfinger $0.50, MQ to get free

All told, I spent less than $6, got a $2.50 register reward and saved over $11. Works for me!

Special note: be sure to ask for a rain check if something you want is out of stock. It allowed me to get the toilet cleaner cheap even though they were out when I tried to buy it originally.

Finally- a new Post! And it is a mad/crazy deal!

2010-06-07T15:56:00.001-05:00

First off, I want to apologize. Blogger has been down for a couple days, so even though I tried, I wasn't able to get any blogs up. Darn technology! Kidding!

Now for the mad crazy deal----

I don't typically buy Snapple, even though my hubby loves it. But I couldn't pass up this deal I found at Pierce's.

A 6 pack of Snapple is priced at $5.99. Above the display was a tearpad for a full price refund on one 6-pk. There was also a $1 peelie coupon attached. So, I paid $4.99 after the coupon and sent off my rebate for $5.99!! I love a money maker!

Attention to local moms

2010-06-03T09:38:00.001-05:00

Riverview Park and Waterworld in the Dells has special "Dollar Days" for Wisconsin residents!!!

June 14 - June 18 AND August 16 - 20, 2010

Admission is just $5 each when you show proof of Wisconsin residency!

This is a great idea for fun in the sun while the kids are out of school.

For all the details, check out http://www.riverviewpark.com

Thanks Gayle!

Pierce's Highlights for this week

2010-06-03T09:37:00.000-05:00

Another week is upon us, and this one has some produce on sale. As always, these are the deals according to Kendra, so take it for what it is worth.

I also realize that I haven't completed a monthly meal plan, so I guess I am winging it until that is done. With a stocked freezer and pantry that should be no problem!

4 day produce sale

-------------------

Whole seedless watermelon $3.78

Strawberries 1 lb $1.78 (is only $1.44 at Pig if you are in that area

Del monte Pineapple $1.98

Cantaloupe $1.98

Grapes red or green $1.48 (does go cheaper, but for now an ok price)

Brocolli $0.98/lb

Sweet baby carrots 2 lb $1.98

Page one

---------

Wisconsin Farms gallon milk $1.98

Kemps 1/2 gal flavor milk $1

Page two

---------

Oscar mayer lunchables $1.33 (although...have you ever looked at the ingredient list on these? I don't buy them anymore. )

Surfine frozen vegetables $0.88

TJ Farms shoestring fries $0.66

Tombstone pizza $3.33

Country Crock $2.00 ea when you buy two and use in-ad coupon. Pair it with $0.40 MQ to get for $1.60 each

Sunny D $1.25

Page three

----------

Shurfine Mac 'n cheese $0.40

Smuckers jelly/jam $2.50, use $1/2 or $1/3 MQ

Hunt's spaghetti sauce $0.88

Pillsbury cake mix $0.98, use $1/2 MQ (was a tear pad awhile back)

Pillsbury brownie mix $0.98, use $1/2 MQ

Page four

---------

Celery $0.98

Dole bagged coleslaw mix $1.28

Cucumbers 2/$1

green beans $1.28/lb

Roma tomatoes $0.98/lb

Organic mini carrots 1 lb, $1.50

Twin mini french bread $0.98

That is all folks, happy shopping this week!

Showing off my big Walmart haul

2010-05-30T23:17:00.000-05:00

You know I don't go to Walmart unless I can help it. But, now that they are price matching Piggly Wiggly AND Target I have been there a little more frequently. I made such a trip to price match and get a few things that I had coupons for and I managed to save quite a bit and I wanted to share.

4 Oscar Mayer hot dogs ad match Pig $0.99 each, used $1/2 MQ = $0.49 each
3 Kraft ranch dressing ad match $0.99, used $0.55 MQ =0.44 each
2 Kraft american cheese slices ad match $0.99
3 Caprisun ad match $1.49
5 Wheat thins ad match $1.49, used $1 MQ/IP to get for $0.49 each
4 12pk Mt dew ad match 4/$9.96, used $2 MQ from Pierce's ad = $2 each 12 pk
6 8th continent soy milk $2.46, used $2 IP on each = $0.46 each
2 Hidden Valley ranch dressing $1.86, used $1 IP = $0.86 each
1 Sunbelt granola bars $1.86, used $0.55 IP = $1.31
4 Kraft 100 calorie pack cookies/snacks $2.50, used BOGO IP= all 4 for $5
3 Frigo string cheese $2.98, used $1 IP = $1.98 each
1 Angel soft toilet paper roll $2, used $1 MQ = $1
2 Pull ups flushable wipes $1.64, used $1 MQ = $0.64 each
3 Kraft 100 calorie cheese packs $2.16, used $1 MQ = $1.16 each
4 Tic Tacs $1.04, used 2 BOGO IP = $2.08 for all 4 packs

My before coupon total was $86.01, but I was able to reduce it to $46.05!!!

I was able to use my normal budgeted grocery amount to pay for this and it left enough to pick up a few sale items at the store as well.

Share your good deals with me here and I will feature them on the blog! Hope you are having a happy holiday.

Another way to use that $2 MQ for Pepsi 12 packs!

2010-05-27T09:38:00.000-05:00

In addition to using it at Piggly Wiggly (check out the previous post) you can also use it at Kmart this week to get cheap soda.

Kmart has 12 packs on sale for $3 each. When you buy four you also get a coupon for a free 12 pack on a future visit.

Scenario
buy (4) 12 packs for $12
use $2 MQ to = $10 plus tax
get coupon for a free 12 pack on future visit (my receipt said on June 1st )

Net is $2 each 12-pack after coupon and future free 12 packs!

Essentially the same price as Piggly Wiggly when you use the coupon,

NOTE: The coupon expires quickly so be sure to use it before it expires!

Pierce's Highlights + plus a couple deals at Piggly Wiggly

2010-05-26T21:38:00.000-05:00

Another week is upon us so it is time to check out the deals. There will be a couple Piggly Wiggly deals noted at the end as well.

Page one
---------
Ground chuck $1.98/lb (usually will go cheaper this time of year, I wouldn't pay more than $2/lb)
Sweet corn $0.33 each- but is $0.12 at Pig
Oscar Mayer wieners $0.98, use $1/2 MQ to get for $0.49 each!
Lays potato chips $1.98
Bush's baked beans $1.50 each (may get a little cheaper towards summer)

blah blah on the beer/brat/buns ad coupon, If you buy beer this weekend- be sure to use it to get free food

Page two
---------
Oscar Mayer fresh Deli meats $2.50, use $1 IP or $1/2 MQ
Klement brats 1# size $2.50, use $0.50/1 MQ or $1/2 MQ to get for $2 each!
Hormel pork loin filet $4.98, use $1 MQ
Kraft Philly cream cheese $1.18 for 8oz block
Bomb pops $1.88
Shurfine frozen conc lemonade $0.66 each
TJ farms hash browns $1.50

Page three
----------
blah blah points

NOTE: clip the coupon for pepsi products. I will share in next post how to use that best here in Portage to get cheap pepsi products.

Page four
---------
blah blah cracker deal--> cheaper to rock at Pig, I will highlight below
French's mustard $1.50, use $0.50 MQ
Vlassic relish $1, use $0.55 MQ to get for only $0.45!
Hershey's syrup $1.98, use $1/2 MQ
Kraft mayo $2.50

Page five
---------
Kraft dressing --> cheaper at Pig
Lipton teabags $2.88, use $0.50 MQ

Page six
--------
Earthbound farms clamshell salad $2.98, use $0.75 MQ (not sure where I got it)

Now to recap Piggly Wiggly:
-------------------------------------
There are some "in-ad coupons" that you can stack with a manufacture coupon to get some deals. Check out the following:

Oscar Mayer wieners $0.99 with ad, use $1/2 MQ to = $0.49 each (this is same as Pierce's)
Kraft Dressing $0.99 each with ad, use $0.55 MQ to get for $44 each!
Nabisco snack cracker $1.49 with ad, use $1 IP, or $1/2 MQ or $1 peelie to get for as low as $0.49 each!
Pepsi 12 packs 4/$9.98 with ad, use $2 MQ from Pierce's ad (which is a MQ) to get for $2 for each 12-pack!

Also: Kraft singles $0.99 with ad, Capri sun $1.49 with ad and Miracle Whip $0.99 with ad are good prices as well!

Happy shopping

Walgreens deal this week

2010-05-21T09:24:00.002-05:00

I made a run to Walgreens (since a register reward was expiring) but didn't find too much that interested me in their ad this week. Maybe because my home stockpile is quite large!

Anyway, I did partake in one deal as follows:

Buy 1 Hershey 6 pk $3

Buy 1 Honey Maid Graham $3

Get 1 free Marshmallows (store deal)

Subtotal is $6, but use the $1 MQ from this past weekends paper to get all the makings for S'Mores for only $5! Sounded good to me!

Pierce's and internet coupons

2010-05-20T21:21:00.000-05:00

I'm not sure if I mentioned this yet....

Pierce's now accepts internet coupons up to a $2 value! This is major since so many coupons are available over $1!!!

They still will not take any internet coupons that are for a free item, or a buy one/get one free item.

At least this is an improvement!

Pierce's Highlights for the week

2010-05-19T21:21:00.000-05:00

Here we are yet again with a new ad. As always, these are the deals according to Kendra so be sure to check out the ad for yourself!

Page one

---------

whole watermelon- seedless $3.98

Pepsi 2L $1

Doritos $1.98

Large eggs $0.68

WI farms 1 gal milk $1.98

Surefresh Bonless/skinless Chicken breast 2.5# $3.98 (good stock up price)

Page two

---------

Hormel Pork butt roast or steaks $1.59/lb, buy a small pack and use $1 mQ to score a good deal

Star ranch petite sirloin steaks $2.98/lb

Surefresh cream cheese blocks $0.98

Crystal Farms American cheese singles $1.66

Crystal Farms string cheese $2.68

Green Giant Steamers $1

Old orchard lemonade frozen concentrate $0.75, use $1/4 MQ

Surefine OJ concentrate $1.50

Page three

----------

Ken's dressing $1.88, use $1 MQ

Van Camp's baked beans $1 (good stock up price for summer)

Tuna COTS $0.75

Surefine sugar $1.88

*snag the coupon for pepsi on this page- hold it in case Kmart or Walgreen's has a good pepsi sale this weekend!

Page four

---------

no stellar deals on this page

NOTE: there are a whole bunch of "buy one get one free" items this week at Piggly Wiggly. I just don't have time right now to review them!

Have a great week and enjoy the weather!

Pierce's Highlights and a couple Piggly deals

2010-05-13T19:13:00.001-05:00

First off, I need to highlight a couple deals at Piggly Wiggly that are worth the drive this week

These items are $1 each but you must buy multiples of 10 to get the deal:

Ragu pasta sauce
Skippy peanut butter (use $0.60/2 MQ)
Wishbone or western dressing
ICBINB/country crock/promise ($0.40 MQ on country crock)

If you have the coupons above you can rock a pretty good deal!

And here are the deals at Pierce's. As always, be sure to check out the deals on your own to ensure you are seeing everything. My review does include items from the 4 day sale from Saturday to Tuesday.

Page one

---------

Shurfine charcoal $2.98

Shurfresh American singles $0.98

Ground Beef $1.99/lb

Dole iceberg lettuce $0.88

Bananas $0.38/lb

Bar-S hot dogs $0.78

Lay's potato chips $1.98

Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ $1.25

Surefine baked beans $0.98

Shurfine yellow mustard $0.78

Quaker cereal $1.98 (this brand rarely has coupons or goes on sale)

Page two

----------

Fresh wild perch fillets $3.98/lb

Hormel pork loin chops $1.98/lb, use $1 MQ

Best life buttery spread $0.98, there is $1 IP on smartsource.com

page three

----------

Old Orchard apple juice $1.50, use $1/2 or $0.50 IP if you still have them

Post cereal $1.88 (another cereal that rarely has coupons or sale)

Rice A roni/ pasta roni $1

page four

---------

Broccoli $0.88/lb

That is all I see today folks! Have a great week of shopping!!

Mother's of Preschoolers Fundraiser- please come and help us out!

2010-05-10T22:12:00.000-05:00

We are having a Spaghetti Feed & Silent Auction---> come join us and help a good cause!

MOPS is an organization that helps to support moms with kids age 0-6. In Portage, nearly 50 moms participate in this group that holds twice monthly meetings at Grace Bible Church.

Saturday May 15th, we are having a fundraiser at our host church (Grace Bible Church) to raise money for our group which includes providing scholarships so no mom is denied access to the group. Here are the details:

Date: Saturday May 15th, 2010
Time: 5:00-8:00 pm
Place: Grace Bible Church, 2939 Cty Hwy CX in Portage

What's Included? Dinner includes spaghetti, garlic bread and desserts.

We will also be having a silent auction that includes many items from local businesses and from many of our talented mom members! (There is even a gift certificate for one-on-one coupon counseling from yours truly). I believe we have over 60 items to bid on!

Tickets are $5 for anyone 13 and older and $2 for kids aged 6-12. Children 5 and under eat free! You can buy tickets at the door on the day of the event.

Please join us for a fun filled night and bid on items from community business. And thanks for supporting moms!

If you have any questions, please email me and I can fill you in! kendralacrosse@verizon.net

FRAUDULENT COUPON ALERT

2010-05-09T18:40:00.000-05:00

This fraudulent coupon is circulating locally AND nationally. Please check to make sure you do not have this coupon.

Usually when a coupon seems too good to be true- it usually ist. Using this coupon hurts all of us. The store where it is used has to eat the cost of the items. When a store loses money, they tend to tighten up their coupon policies and are less likely to accept internet coupons. I know a good deal is hard to pass up, but we must be sure to use our coupons the right way.

If you have any questions about this issue, be sure to check out the Frito Lay website FAQ's here.

Brakebush Truckload sale

2010-05-08T08:50:00.001-05:00

Brakebush up in Westfield is having a truckload sale of their yummy food next weekend- May 14, 15, 16!

Check out all the detail by clicking here for the link!

Finally...My May menu plan is done so we can get back on budget!

2010-05-07T08:31:00.000-05:00

Well, due to all the illness in the house during April I never got a monthly menu done.

As a result, the monthly budget was a bust. We relied on several meals of takeout and ate a lot of sandwiches too. Not that sandwiches are bad, but they were eaten fairly regularly for lunches and dinner.

But now I am feeling good and have my energy back so I need to get back onto the meal plan bandwagon. I now realize how wonderful my menu plan was to eat a varied diet, and to save me time.

Here is my May menu, omitting all prior dates of course.

skip
skip
skip
skip
skip
pizza
lasagna from freezer, bread
l: tacos s: sandwiches
l: out to eat s: quesidillas
chicken, rice, veg
pork ribs, salad
breakfast
pizza
tacos
l: BLT's s: attending fundraiser dinner
l: ham, potatoes, veg s: leftovers
chicken, stuffing, veg
some sort of Ham leftovers
fish, rice, peas
pizza
spaghetti pie from freezer
sub sandwiches and chips, fruit
kabobs on the grill with veggies
chicken, rice, salad
pork, salad, veg
hamburgers, chips
pizza
tacos
beef roast, tators, veg
l: hot dogs/brats, s: chicken on grill
cookout for the holiday

I am also sooo excited that we finally got our grass-fed beef from a local farm. It is delicious and I am looking forward to eating more of it!

Turning the P & G "Future Friendly" deal into a better deal! And JCPenney tips!

2010-05-06T18:32:00.000-05:00

Courtesy of a fellow reader (Thanks Vicki!), check out how to use the prepaid mastercard deal into a *wow* at Piggly Wiggly!

for all those TIDE lovers out there, especially if you don't get to target often to get the free individual packs:

Good deal at the Pig today thru next Tuesday.

100oz tide is a decent sale price $9.99 $1MQ

Buy $25 worth of Procter and Gamble Products get a $10 prepaid mastercard.
If you use some of the other coupons from the P & G insert in Sunday’s paper or whatever coupons you have around, you should get some pretty good deals.

My scenario:
2 tides 9.99 & 2 $1MQ
1 12 ct charmin mega roll $5.99 $.25MQ
Total: $25.97 - $10 = $15.97
So if you compare percentages of the original prices to find out after deal price, you’ll end up getting the tides for $5.49 each and the charmin for $3.43…not bad! I'm sure other combinations could probably beat it but its things we use anyway so a nice deal.

And then, if you do the $25 purchase twice (or have other P&G purchases recently) you can qualify for the coupon book that P&G has available if you spend $50 before May 31, they’ll send you a coupon book with high value Q’s totaling $100…even better!

I only had the internet ad so I couldn't see any fine print that may apply...so check it out for yourself.
-------------

Also, I found out a few weeks ago that you can order items off JCPenney.com and have them shipped to Hoopla(downtown portage) for a lower shipping rate (and still apply a coupon code to your order) and they take returns from the website and the stores there...way more convenient than Baraboo or Madison. And, if anyone has any parties to host, Hoopla has 2 or 3 $1 tables with some cute things that might be worth checking out. lots of ballet slipper stuff and some other princessy things, but there are boys things also(i just didn't pay attention much) and adult things too.

Pierce's Highlighs and comparison to Piggly Wiggly

2010-05-06T18:26:00.000-05:00

Here is the list for this week. There are several items that are on sale at both Pierce's and the Pig and I will compare those prices.

Also, on Friday Pierce's is having a "Meat Sale". I have not seen anything in the newspaper showing prices or item so check it out for yourself.

Page one (and little folded page)
---------
International Delight coffee creamer $1.68, there was a $1 IP the other day online
Pillsbury sweet rolls $1.88, use $0.75/2IP
Shurfresh large eggs $0.88- $0.79 at Pig
Strawberries 16 oz $1.50
Crystal Farms cream cheese $1
Tombstone pizza 3/$9.99 - a pretty good price for these
Prego spag sauce $2- buy at Pig for $1.49
Creamette pasta $0.98
Old Orchard Juice cocktail $1.25, use $0.50 IP available about a week ago online

page two
---------
Cook's shank ham $0.98/lb - about the best price now that Easter is past
Frozen wild Alaskan cod fillets $3.98/lb
Daisy sour cream $0.88
Azteca flour tortillas $0.98
Roma frozen pizza 6/$9.96
Rhodes frozen rolls $2.98, use $1 MQ

page three
----------
Knorr rice sides $1, usual sale price
Juicy Juice $2.88, use $1 MQ or $1/2 IP
Oreo $2.50, use BoGO when you buy 1 gallon milk
Dole fruit bowls $2, use $0.75/2 MQ

**note the MQ on page three for $1 off 3 12packs Pepsi- you can use this coupon anywhere, not just Pierce's

page four
---------
dole salad bags $1.50

ALSO AT PIG
Whole cut up chicken $0.99/lb
Food club bacon 1 lb $1.99
Boneless skinless chicken breasts $4.99 for 3lb bag
Kraft cheese 2/$4, buy 2 and use coupon in ad for free Ritz crackers!

That is all. Stay tuned for a deal one of your fellow readers figured out in order to take advantage of the P & G Rebate going on at Pig!

Scholastic Book Fair- I am behind the times!

2010-05-04T19:46:00.000-05:00

The book fair starts tomorrow and I am behind in getting this info to you, sorry! This is a great time to pick up books for the kiddos for birthdays, Christmas, etc. Check out the info in the link!

http://store.scholastic.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/SearchEndecaCmd?categoryName=Books&catalogId=10051&storeId=10052&categoryId=10501&parent_category_rn=&top_category=&N=7&goToView=CategoryPageView&psch=SSO/ps/20100126/acq/Scholastic+Categories_grouped//////google/cj/Scholastic+Books

Tylenol/Benadryl Recall

2010-05-04T12:22:00.000-05:00

Be sure to check your cupboards for the following recalled products. Call the company because I believe they will reimburse or replace the items!

McNeil Consumer Healthcare Announces Voluntary Recall of Certain OTC Infants’ and Children’s
PRODUCTS NDC Number

TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS
CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 1 OZ. GRAPE FLAVOR 50580-144-01
CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.5 OZ. GRAPE FLAVOR* 50580-144-15
CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 1 OZ. CHERRY DYE FREE 50580-167-01
CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.5 OZ. CHERRY FLAVOR 50580-143-15
CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 1 OZ. CHERRY FLAVOR 50580-143-30
CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.5 OZ. GRAPE - HOSPITAL 50580-144-18
CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.25 OZ. GRAPE - SAMPLE 50580-144-40

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSIONS
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 2 OZ. CHERRY BLAST FLAVOR 50580-123-02
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. CHERRY BLAST FLAVOR 50580-123-04
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® DYE-FREE SUSPENSION 4 OZ. CHERRY FLAVOR 50580-166-04
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. GRAPE SPLASH 50580-296-04
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BUBBLEGUM FLAVOR 50580-407-04
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. VERY BERRY STRAWBERRY FLAVOR 50580-493-04
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 1 OZ. CHERRY BLAST FLAVOR – SAMPLE 50580-123-01
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. CHERRY BLAST FLAVOR – HOSPITAL 50580-123-03

CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSIONS
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COUGH & SORE THROAT CHERRY FLAVOR 50580-247-04
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COUGH & RUNNY NOSE CHERRY FLAVOR 50580-249-04
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS DYE-FREE SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD & STUFFY NOSE GRAPE FLAVOR 50580-253-04
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS DYE-FREE SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD & COUGH GRAPE FLAVOR 50580-254-04
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS DYE-FREE SUSPENSION 4 OZ. MULTI-SYMPTOM COLD GRAPE FLAVOR 50580-255-04
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. FLU BUBBLEGUM FLAVOR 50580-386-04
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD GRAPE FLAVOR 50580-387-04
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD & ALLERGY BUBBLEGUM FLAVOR 50580-390-04
CHILDREN’S TYLENOL® PLUS SUSPENSION 4 OZ. MULTI-SYMPTOM COLD GRAPE FLAVOR 50580-391-04

MOTRIN® INFANTS’ DROPS
CONCENTRATED MOTRIN® INFANTS’ DROPS 1 OZ. BERRY DYE FREE 50580-198-01
CONCENTRATED MOTRIN® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.5 OZ. BERRY DYE FREE 50580-198-15
CONCENTRATED MOTRIN® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.5 OZ. BERRY FLAVOR* 50580-100-15

CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSIONS
CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BERRY DYE FREE 50580-184-04
CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 2 OZ. BERRY FLAVOR 50580-601-02
CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BERRY FLAVOR 50580-601-04
CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. TROPICAL PUNCH FLAVOR 50580-215-04
CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. GRAPE FLAVOR 50580-603-04
CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BUBBLEGUM FLAVOR 50580-604-04
CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 1 OZ. GRAPE SAMPLE 50580-603-01
CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 1 OZ. BUBBLEGUM SAMPLE 50580-604-01
CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 1 OZ. BERRY SAMPLE 50580-601-01
CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. BERRY HOSPITAL 50580-601-50
CHILDREN’S MOTRIN® SUSPENSION 4 OZ. COLD BERRY FLAVOR 50580-902-04

CHILDREN’S ZYRTEC® LIQUIDS IN BOTTLES
CHILDREN’S ZYRTEC® 4 OZ. BUBBLEGUM SYRUP 50580-721-04
CHILDREN’S ZYRTEC® DYE FREE 4 OZ. GRAPE SYRUP 50580-730-04
CHILDREN’S ZYRTEC® SUGAR-FREE DYE-FREE 0.5 OZ. GRAPE 50580-730-15
CHILDREN’S ZYRTEC® SUGAR-FREE DYE-FREE 0.5 OZ. BUBBLEGUM 50580-721-15
CHILDREN’S ZYRTEC® SUGAR-FREE DYE-FREE 2 X 4 OZ. BUBBLEGUM LIQUID 50580-721-08

CHILDREN'S BENADRYL® ALLERGY LIQUIDS IN BOTTLES
CHILDREN'S BENADRYL® ALLERGY 4 OZ. BUBBLEGUM FLAVORED LIQUID 50580-535-04

* CONCENTRATED TYLENOL® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.5 OZ. GRAPE FLAVOR is also included in JOHNSON'S ® Baby Relief Kit.
*CONCENTRATED MOTRIN® INFANTS’ DROPS 0.5 OZ. BERRY FLAVOR is also included in JOHNSON'S ® Baby Relief Kit

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - April 30, 2010 – Fort Washington, PA. McNeil Consumer Healthcare, Division of McNEIL-PPC, Inc., in consultation with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), is voluntarily recalling all lots that have not yet expired of certain over-the-counter (OTC) Children’s and Infants’ liquid products manufactured in the United States and distributed in the United States, Canada, Dominican Republic, Dubai (UAE), Fiji, Guam, Guatemala, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Panama, Trinidad & Tobago, and Kuwait. (SEE RECALLED PRODUCT LIST BELOW).

McNeil Consumer Healthcare is initiating this voluntary recall because some of these products may not meet required quality standards. This recall is not being undertaken on the basis of adverse medical events. However, as a precautionary measure, parents and caregivers should not administer these products to their children. Some of the products included in the recall may contain a higher concentration of active ingredient than is specified; others may contain inactive ingredients that may not meet internal testing requirements; and others may contain tiny particles. While the potential for serious medical events is remote, the company advises consumers who have purchased these recalled products to discontinue use.

The company is conducting a comprehensive quality assessment across its manufacturing operations and has identified corrective actions that will be implemented before new manufacturing is initiated at the plant where the recalled products were made.

Consumers can contact the company at 1-888-222-6036 and also at www.mcneilproductrecall.com1. Parents and caregivers who are not sure about alternative pediatric health treatment options should talk to their doctor or pharmacist and are reminded to never give drug products to infants and children that are not intended for those age groups as this could result in serious harm.

For additional information, including affected NDC numbers, consumers should visit our website www.mcneilproductrecall.com or call 1-888-222-6036 (Monday-Friday 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Eastern Time, and Saturday-Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time). Any adverse reactions may also be reported to the FDA’s MedWatch Program by fax at 1-800-FDA-0178, by mail at MedWatch, FDA, 5600 Fishers Lane, Rockville, MD 20852-9787, or on the MedWatch website at www.fda.gov/medwatch2.

Keeping Score

2010-05-01T19:51:00.000-05:00

Wow, I need to apologize yet again to you folks. The posts have been light again due to--- you guessed it STREP throat!!

For those that are keeping score:::

4 - The amount of times strep has been our house since September

3 - The number of times I have been diagnosed with strep since September

2 - The number of times I have been diagnosed with strep in April

1 - The number of children that also has it right now

I am on new antibiotics now and starting to feel better. Everyone in my house has been/or is getting swabbed to find out who is carrying it and giving it to me all the time!

I will try to get the posts back on track next week.

In the meanwhile please forward me any deals you find so I can post for others. Also, if anyone is interested in writing any articles, I'd be happy to feature it here! Email me at kendralacrosse@verizon.net!

Kmart Pepsi products

2010-04-29T21:58:00.000-05:00

A big thank you to the reader who realized that the Pepsi products are cheaper at Kmart right now instead of Pierces.

Kmart: 12 packs are 4/$10.

Pierce's Highlights for the Week

2010-04-28T21:01:00.000-05:00

A new week is upon us and the new ad is here. As always, these are the deals according to Kendra. Check out the ad in store or online for yourself.

Page one

---------

Whole watermelon $4.48

Ground Chuck $1.98/lb

Pineapple $2.48

Kemps sour cream $0.88

Green giant steamers $1

Bush's Grillin beans $1.50, use $1/2 MQ

Page two

---------

Jack's original pizza $2.50

Old Orchard concentrated juice $1, use $1/4 MQ

Page three

----------

There are 2 in store coupons on this page, free Ritz when you buy 2 Kraft cheese (there was a IP today on that) and to get Pepsi cases 2/$14

Page four

---------

McCormick seasoning packet $0.49, use $0.50 MQ to get free

Sargento shredded cheese $1.50, use $0.50/2 MQ

Avocados $0.98

Shurfine salsa $1

Old Dutch tortilla chips $2

Page five

---------

Koolaid bursts $1

Toast 'em pop-ups $1

Page six

--------

Brocolli $0.78/lb

Cucumbers 2/$0.98

Roma Tomatoes $0.98/lb

As you can see, it is only a fair week at the store. I am looking forward to getting my own garden up and going so I will have a lot more fresh produce on hand.

Have a good week everyone.

Walgreen's Warning

2010-04-27T19:47:00.000-05:00

After a quick run to Walgreen's yesterday I want to give everyone a warning...

Do not use the $3 Register Reward that you may have from purchasing the Schick Hydo shaving cream (was free after reward two weeks ago) to buy the Skintimate shave gel that is free this week.

They are made by the same company (despite the fact that the Skintimate does not say "Schick" anywhere on it) and the register will not print the new reward for the Skintimate.

I tried to do this and the manager had to void and re-run the transaction so I could get the reward.

Learn from my blunder!

A Reader Success Story at Walgreens

2010-04-22T19:36:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Vicki for letting me in on her shopping trip- you rocked the deals for sure. And to everyone else, feel free to share your success stories anytime by emailing me and I will feature it here!

Hey there, I just thought I’d reply to all those times your blog says, “How’d you do at Walgreens this week?” even though you didn’t ask this week:)

I shouldn’t really be so excited about my trip to WAGS today since I didn’t use or receive any RR and my out of pocket was still 10 bucks but still…it was a messy coupon scenario so I wasn’t positive it would work how i thought it would but it even turned out better than I’d hoped.

I had planned to go to Pardeeville to Piggly Wiggly since they’re milk and qualifying Nabisco cookies are on sale for $1.99 each but couldn’t justify the trip with so few other good deals there this week…glad I went to Walgreens instead cause it ended up not being $.70 more than the Pig, instead it was $.40 less! $3.68 for a gallon of milk and 2 full size pkgs of oreos!

I’m not sure if it’s a system glitch or what but their monthly coupon book coupon says $1 off wyb Nabisco cookies and a gallon of milk. I got two cookies cause the second was free with a different coupon I had. But the Walgreens coupon took off $2 even though I only got one milk…a nice surprise!

PURCHASED:

1 gallon milk $2.69

2 pkg oreos $3.99ea
2 kelloggs cereal $1.99ea
4 3pk scotch brite sponges $3.99ea(i'm pretty single pks would be free at walmart but we go thru lots so its worth it to have 1 for a buck)

1 gallon distilled water for a filler item $1.19

pre coupon total = 31.80

COUPONS USED:

Wags Q: $1off wyb oreo & 1gallon milk (two oreos purch so it took off $2)

Wags Q: BOGO scotchbrite sponges

Wags Q: 1 gallon distilled water = $.79 so $.40off

$1 off 2 pkg oreos

$1.50 off 2 kelloggs cereal
$1off 1scotch brite sponge (used 4)

$1 off milk wyb 1 kelloggs cereal
Buy 1 gallon milk & 1 pkg oreo get 1 pkg oreo free

($21.87 in coupons)

after coupon total = $9.93

Also, i don’t usually look this close but was pleasantly surprised to see that sales tax is charged on the after coupon total not before like I would’ve guessed.

like william shatner says on his cheesy priceline commercials, i love to speak the language of the deal:)

Pierce's Highlights of the Week

2010-04-21T20:52:00.000-05:00

Another week is upon us and here is a review of the newest ad. Be sure to check it out for yourself in person or online as I only highlight what I feel are the best deals.

Page one
---------
Seedless grapes $1.28/lb- was cheaper last week, but grapes are good
Cantaloupe $1.98
Pepsi 2L products $1, found a hangtag coupon recently in WAGS for $1/4
Shurfine baked beans $1, a pretty good price
Shurfine Lasagna noodles $1 (now I'm craving lasagna!)

Page two
---------
Hormel pork loin steaks or roast $1.48/lb
Gold n' Plump thighs or drumsticks $2, use $0.75 IP from coupons.com
Kemps sour cream 16 oz $1
Shurfine frozen veggies $0.88

Page three
-----------
Shurfine Mac 'n cheese $0.40

Page four
---------
Dole Iceberg salad $1.18
Green beans $0.98/lb
Cut seedless watermelon $0.58
Earthbound farms Romaine hearts $1.98
Skippy peanut butter only $1.38 after in-ad coupon, check for any MQ

That is all folks. Have a great week as usual!

My Frugal Failure

2010-04-20T22:23:00.000-05:00

I'm going to fess up to you all. Even experienced couponers have an off day.

I went to Walgreens today to get a couple things. Everything was rung up and I realized I had forgotten my Register Rewards and cash!

Normally, I am ok with telling them to void the transaction, but of course I had one item that I really needed. I went ahead with the purchase- breaking my self-imposed rule and put it on the check card. (oh, the horror!)

Now of course I have to go back again this week since the rewards are expiring in a couple days!

I am sharing this to show you that no one is perfect in this couponing world. Don't be so hard on yourself and learn from your mistakes. There is always tomorrow!

(To make matters worse, I dropped off the videos after Walgreen's only to realize that I forgot to grab the one in the DVD player. So much for combining errands to save gas today:( )

Kwik Trip Bread

2010-04-18T16:18:00.000-05:00

I noticed at Kwik Trip today that the 1 # loaf of white bread is only $0.59!!

All other specialty bread and buns are only $0.79.

Looks like a good time to stock up and freeze the bread!

Diaper Deal

2010-04-16T13:41:00.000-05:00

I have a pretty good diaper deal that I found in a magazine and thought I would share.

If you order $49 of diapers at http://www.diapers.com/, you can enter code PARENTSAPR10 to get $10 off and free shipping as well.

Something else I have learned about Diapers.com is that you can send in your manufacture coupons via the mail to them which they will enter on your account. Click on coupons on the left sidebar for all the details. That way, you can maximize the use of coupons and get a great diaper deal as well.

Shipped right to your door is a good thing!

Pierce's Highlights

2010-04-14T20:57:00.000-05:00

Here are the deals I see for this week. My household is finally back up and running. Be sure to check out the deals for yourself in person or online.

Page one
---------
Old Orchard apple Juice $1.48, use $0.50 IP
In Store coupon for $2 off when you buy 4 Kellogg's cereal (check prices and coupons)
Raspberries or Blackberries $2.50 each
Hormel county spareribs $0.98/lb- a good stockup price

There are a couple of 10/$10 deals (note: you do not have to buy 10- buy any quantity you want)

Page two
---------
Oscar Mayer lunchables $1.33 each. There have been several coupons on the web
Shurfresh bonless/skinless chicken breast fillets $3.98 for 2.5lb bag
Sunny D juice $1
Large eggs $0.98
Flour tortilla $1.25
Old Orchard OJ concentrate $0.98, $1/4 MQ

Page three
-----------
Surefine salsa $0.98
Peter Pan peanut butter $1.68, use $1/2 MQ
Koolaid drink mix 8/$1
Ken's dressing $1.88, use $1 MQ
Shurfine pasta $0.88
shurefine pancake mix $1.50
Lay's potato chips $2.50

Page four
---------
Cauliflower $0.98/lb
dole bagged spinach $1.98
Russet potatoes $0.98 for 5#
Kiwi fruit 3/$0.99

That is all I see for now folks. have a great week.

It happened again...

2010-04-08T20:42:00.000-05:00

Bear with me folks, but I am down for the count yet again. Strep throat has entered our house for the THIRD time this year and it got me. I am taking it easy, resting and trying to recouperate. Forgive me, but the blog is going to slide this week.

I hope you are enjoying some Kmart doubling and other coupon finds.

My Kmart trip, I'll probably do another trip!

2010-04-06T13:07:00.000-05:00

First off, a little birdie told me that she was able to do more than one transaction on her card. I tried it and was able to do two transactions today. However, the register will NOT allow you to double more than 5 coupons in a transaction. It will only double the first 5 coupons you hand over, so be sure to plan accordingly.

Here is what I did, with final cost too...

Transaction #1:

2 Tampax pearl $4.49, used $2 MQ- $0.49 net each
1 Ziplock container $2.50, used $1- net $0.50
1 Kellogg fruit snack $2, used $1 IP- net free

Transaction #2

1 Selsun shampoo $6.79, used $1 MQ- net $4.79
1 Tampax pearl $4.49, used $2 MQ- net $0.49
3 Ziplock sandwich bags $2.50, used $1/2 mQ- net $3 for 2 boxes (note: these were mismarked on the shelf but they gave it to me for that price), plus has coupon to get one box free when you buy 2 (not doubled)
1 Kelloggs fruit snacks $2, used $1 IP- net free
2 Poptarts $2, used $1/2 IP- net $1 per box

On another note, they have a bunch of winter clothes clearance that you should check out. I got brand new snowpants for $5.99! Super cheap!

A Reader's Kmart success

2010-04-06T12:33:00.001-05:00

I've been following your blog for about 3 months now and thought I would share that I did stop at Kmart today!

My transaction consisted of:

3 Gillette Men's Bodywash 2/$8 = $12
4 Ziplock Containers 2/$5 = $10
5 Dove Deoderants $3.79 ea = $18.95

Q's used in the order I used them

3 $2 Off Gillette Mens Bodywash Doubled $12 Making Gillette Free
2 $1.50 Ziplock containers Doubled $6 Making containers $1 ea. package
5 $2 Dove IP Q's Not doubled = $10

Total OOP was $15.79 plus I got a $5 off your next order, $5 off $25 H&B purchase, $5 off $50 consumables or H & B purchase.

Taking in consideration I have plans to use the $5 OYO and the $5 off $25 to lower OOP on my next trip(s) I feel like this trip ended up costing me $5.79 All in all I feel it was worth the trip!!!!

Kmart Doubles Update

2010-04-03T19:27:00.000-05:00

Kmart doubles start tomorrow. Despite the fact that it is not anywhere on their ad that I could find, the Portage store is participating. But there are a few rules.....

Dates are 4/4/10-4/10/10
Coupons value up to $2 will be doubled
Doubling coupons will only happen when you use your rewards card (can sign up in store)
Kmart coupons will not double
There is a limit of 5 coupons per customer per day (I guess they will track due to the rewards card)
Only the first 5 coupons presented will be doubled.

I'm not sure if it will be worth my while to go, I'm still undecided. Only 5 coupons puts quite a limit on it, and multiple transactions are now out of the equation.

Will it be worth your time?

If anyone does go and finds any great deals, email me so I can share. Good luck.

Pierce's Update, Walmart Price Matching

2010-04-03T19:18:00.000-05:00

Today I learned some great news at Pierce's! You now get a 5 point credit to your rewards point total when you bring your own bags! If you use cloth bags regularly, be sure they give you the credit!

Also~ Walmart will price match ads which we know. But thanks to reader Stephanie (which I did confirm by trying it) you should know they will also price Target in addition to Pierce's and Piggly Wiggly! Be sure to take the ad with you so they can verify it and separate those items as well. Wow, I guess I may get into Walmart more often now.

Pierce's Highlights and some noteworthy Pig Deals

2010-03-31T21:08:00.000-05:00

Here are the deals for this week...As always, these are the deals according to me, so check out the ad for yourself.

Page one
---------
Strawberries 1# $1.68---(cheaper at PIG, only $0.99)
Birdseye veggies $1----(cheaper at PIG, only $0.89) use $0.35 MQ
Butter quarters $1.68---(cheaper at PIG, only $1.49)
Dole pineapple $0.88, use $0.55 MQ
Pepsi products 12 packs 4/$11 when you use the in ad coupon

Page two
---------
Oscar Mayer ham or turkey 2/$5, use $1 MQ
Wild Alaskan cod fillets $3.98/lb
Rhodes rolls $3.50, used $1 MQ
Daisy Sour Cream $1.50, use $0.50 MQ
Philly Cream cheese $1.08---(cheaper than PIG, only $0.89), use $1.25 MQ

page three is reward card stuff- no other great deals

Page four
---------
Betty Crocker cake mix $0.78
Betty Crocker frosting $0.99 (I think there are coupons for this)
Pillsbury brownies $1, use $1/2 MQa
Nestle toll house morsels $2, use $0.75 IP or $1/2 IP
Ritz crackers 2/$5 or other Nabisco crackers $2, use $1 ad coupon AND $1/2 MQ
Old Dutch tortilla chips $2

Page five
---------
Cheerios, trix, golden crahams $2
Hunts Ketchup $0.98

Page six
--------
Russet potatoes 10# $1.58

Piggly Wiggly Deals of note
---------------------------

Philly cream cheese $0.89, use $1.25 MQ
Birdseye frozen Veggies $0.89, use $0.35 MQ
1# Strawberries $0.99
Cook's Ham shank portion $0.49/lb with ad coupon and $25 purchase
Food club butter $1.49
Sliced or shaved Carolina turkey from deli $1.99
Pillsbury muffin mix $0.89, use $1/2 MQ
Snuggle fabric softener $3.49, use $3 MQ from last week!

Ok, that is all for now folks. Have a great Easter!

This post is overdue....Homemade laundry soap

2010-03-29T18:24:00.000-05:00

I have been meaning to complete a Frugal Friday post on this very topic but Crystal over at http://www.moneysavingmom.com/ beat me to it! Check out here article here which includes a video showing how to make it.

I have made laundry soap and it is very simple and very cheap. I would be doing it now if I didn't have a stockpile of detergent.

Some hints I have learned along the way:

No matter what laundry soap I use, we water it down a little. We have a front loading machine that uses HE detergent. I have never bought the HE detergent. In speaking with the salesman who sold me the machine, the only difference is that the HE soap is less sudsing. By watering down the detergent there will be less suds. I have never had an issue with the clothes not being clean.
Use less soap! I believe the detergent companies overestimate how much is needed to clean the clothes.
I also wear my jeans a couple times if they aren't very dirty. With kids that often change clothes, I try to ensure the clothes are indeed dirty.

That is all for now. Have a great week everyone! Please forgive me for the light number of postings. I am easily pulled away from the computer due to warm weather!

Pierce's Highlights of the Week/ Piggly Wiggly things

2010-03-24T21:01:00.000-05:00

Ham is on sale this week because of Easter, but the price is cheaper at Piggly Wiggly. If you have time it's going to be worth your drive.

Page one

---------

Cook's shank ham portion $1.18/lb ($0.49/lb at Pig is you spend $25- and have ad coupon)

Cook's half ham $1.78/lb

Broccoli $0.78/lb

4# oranges $2.28

Betty Crocker potatoes $1, use $1/2 MQ

Del Monte canned pineapple $0.88

Page two

---------

Hormel Pork butt roast or steaks $1.48/lb

Oscar Mayer bacon 2/$5, use ad coupon to get $1.50/2

Oscar Mayer Deli fresh meats 2/$5, use ad coupon to get $1.50/2, plus use $1/2 MQ

Oscar Mayer lunchables $1.32, use $0.75 IP if you still have them

Gold 'n Plump chicken thighs or drumsticks $2, use $0.75 IP

Page three

----------

Shurfresh young turkey $0.98/lb, a decent price for this time of year

We aren't lamb eaters in this family- so I'm not sure if the $5.98 price is good or not.

Page four- is ad regarding the new rewards program.

Page five

----------

Hi-C juice pouches 3/$4.98- a decent price

Gold Medal flour $1.50, use $0.75 IP (is only $0.98 at Pig with $10 purchase)

Fisher dry roasted peanuts $2.50, use $1 MQ

Page six

--------

Green Giant fresh carrots 2# $0.98

dole bagged salad $1.98

That is all for Pierce's. Now on to a couple noteworthy Piggly Wiggly deals

If you spend $25, there are ad coupons for the following:

Cook's ham shank portions $0.49/lb
Food club large eggs $0.78
Gold Medal flour $0.98
Land O Lakes butter $1.79/lb
pepsi products 4/$10

Also of note:

Fresh Express bagged salad $0.89

Oscar Mayer Deli Creations or lunchables $1.33 each, use $1.50/2 MQ or $0.75/1 IP

1# Strawberries $2

Have a great week of deals!

My incredible Walgreens stash- $3.44

2010-03-23T08:11:00.002-05:00

This picture is a little hard to see and get a feel for how much "stuff" I got.

I rarely buy candy, but since the bunny will be visiting soon it was time to stock up. Here is what I got...

3 packs Lifesavers jelly beans $0.39 with ad coupon
4 Skittles $0.49, used BOGO IP from facebook
4 Starburst $0.49, used BOGO IP from facebook
4 bags Hershey/Reece's chocolate $2.50 each, used $1 Walgreens coupon plus $2/3 MQ
2 Oscar Mayer Bacon $3, used $1.50 IP on each plus received (2) $1 RR when buying - net $0.50 each!
4 Vanity Fair napkins $1.99/ BOGO, used 2 $1 IP (got all four for $2)
6 Hot Wheels cars $1.29/ BOGO with ad coupon (using for future gifts)
3 Peeps marshmallows $0.50 each
6 Snickers candy bars $0.49, used BOGO MQ

And no, the kids will NOT be getting all that candy!

I used $19 in Register Rewards that I had leftover from the last couple weeks. My out of pocket was $3.44 with an ad/coupon savings of $54.90. I also received $2 back in register rewards.

Be sure to take advantage of the Huggies deal this week if you have a little one in diapers! There are $3 internet coupons available. After the sale, coupons and register rewards you get huggies diapers for $3-$4 per pack!

Walgreens deals from earlier in the week

2010-03-20T11:30:00.000-05:00

I did two transactions in order to take advantage of a couple deals.

Transaction #1

2 Benadryl children's tabs $4.99 each. I used $3/2 MQ. Plus I received a $5 Register Reward when you buy two.

My out of pocket was $7.53 and the ad/coupon savings was $7. I got $5 RR which made the Benadryl $1 each after figuring that in. The added bonus is that I also got a coupon (appears to be happening randomly) for a free box of Tampax Pearl. Good score!

Transaction #2

2 Gold Medal Flour $1.50 with ad coupon, used $0.75 IP
4 Bic Highlighters $0.49 with ad coupon, used $1/2 MQ (FREE)
2 Tylenol Cold $4.99, used $3/2 MQ and got $5 RR (net $1 each)
1 Tuf garbage bag $2.99
1 Colgate toothpaste $3.99, used $1 MQ plus got $4 RR (net -1.01)
3 Chapstick $0.99 with ad coupon, used $1/3 MQ
1 Walgreens saline $2.99

My out of pocket was $20.75 with a ad/coupon savings of $31.18. Plus I also received $9 in register rewards.

I'm pleased with my haul and looking forward to spending all these rewards next week.

Pierce's Highlights & A couple Piggly Wiggly deals

2010-03-17T22:19:00.000-05:00

Here is my list for the upcoming week of deals that I see. Please note you should check out the ad for yourself in store or online.

Piggly Wiggly has better prices on a few of the same items, I will try to note those as well.

Page one

---------

Ground chuck $1.98/lb

Strawberries $1.98/lb ($1.99 at Pig)

Cantaloupe $1.98 ea

Crystal Farm cream cheese $0.88/block

Betty Crocker angel food cake $1.50, there is a $0.75 IP for a BC "super moist" cake- not sure if this is it

Pepsi 2L $1 ($0.99 at Pig)

Tostitos $2.50

Tombstone pizza in-ad coupon buy 3, get 1 free. (Check the prices on this because Pig has these 4/$10)

Page two

---------

Hormel country style spareribs $1.68/lb, you can use $1 MQ for Hormel

Healthy Choice all natural entrees $1.88, use $1/2 MQ

Page three (and fold out)

----------

Act II microwave popcorn $1

Sweet Baby Rays BBQ sauce is $1.78 BUT is ONLY $1 at Pig

Peter pan peanut butter $1.78, use $1/2 MQ

Caprisun is $2 BUT is ONLY 3/$5 at Pig

"Fresh Savings and solutions" deal: buy 10 items and get $5 off with in ad coupon- this does not seem like such a great deal to me because you are spending a minimum of almost $20 for 10 items, and getting $5 off. If you only like Heinz Ketchup or one of the other listed items you may find it worth your time.

Page four

---------

Braeburn apples 5# $3.28

Dole shredded lettuce $1.38

Green Giant baby carrots $0.98

That is all for Pierces. Now I will recap the Pig deals since there are a few.

Piggly Wiggly

Pepsi 2L $0.99

Tombstone pizza 4/$10

Caprisun pouches 3/$5

Lipton/Knorr side dishes $1

Skippy peanut butter $1.49

Sweet Baby Rays BBQ $1

BC fruit snacks $1 (when you buy 4)

Looks like I may be going both places this week!

Target- get all this for FREE

2010-03-15T22:12:00.000-05:00

Here is an easy load to pick up if you are in the area of a Target this week.

Johnson's buddies soap $0.97, use $1 IP on any Johnson baby product
Tide single load size (which is really about 3 loads if you have an HE machine) $1.12, use $1 MQ off any size Tide from P&G coupons in Sunday paper 2 weeks ago
McCormick spice on clearance $0.96, used a $1 IP available about a week ago
Right Guard mens deodorant (sample size) $0.97, use $2/2 IP available on coupons.com
Degree Mens deodorant (sample size) $0.97, use $1 IP available last week online
Crest Kids toothpaste on sale for $1.49, use $1 Target coupon available on their website plus the $0.50 MQ from P&G in Sunday paper 2 weeks ago
Olay single bar pack $0.97, use $1 MQ from P&G Sunday paper 2 weeks ago
Kotex pantyliners $1.02, use $1 IP from coupons.com (no longer available)
Always pads $3.99, used MQ to get for free (received this coupon when I requested a sample of the product online)

As you can see, after all the coupon overage, I got everything for free. Quite a bit, don't you think?

The moral of the story is that you need to print the internet coupons when they are available and when a coupon is offered. Even on http://www.coupons.com/ there are print limits and coupons will disappear. Print 'em when you see 'em and you can get lots of good deals.

Ace Hardware light bulbs

2010-03-15T21:57:00.000-05:00

I was in the Portage Ace Hardware today and noticed that the GE CFL lightbulbs are $0.99 again. If you still have any $1 coupons you can get them for free!

AMAZING deal!

2010-03-11T20:12:00.000-06:00

These boxes of Kotex are on sale for $2.99 each through March 27th. If you go to http://www.coupons.com/ there are coupons for $1 off any Kotex product. And if you buy 3 boxes there is a $5 Register Reward.

RECAP:

3 x 2.99 = 8.94
              - 3.00 (coupons)
             --------
               $5.94 plus tax

Now you get $5 back as RR, making your net purchase $0.94 plus tas or $0.31 each.

Have you ever gotten a box of tampons for $0.31????

So awesome.

A few noteworthy Piggly Wiggly Deals

2010-03-10T20:57:00.000-06:00

I usually don't list the Piggly Wiggly deals but here are a couple good prices I saw.

Broccoli crowns $0.99/lb
Creamette Pasta 12-16oz $0.79
Prego spaghetti sauce $1.25 each, use $0.50/2 MQ

Check out the ad for yourself!

Pierce's Highlights of the Week

2010-03-10T20:37:00.000-06:00

A few good deals this week. As always take a look at the flyer yourself or check it out online. Don't forget to sign up for the new rewards card in order to start earning free groceries!

Page one

---------

Farmland sausage $0.88, use $1/2 MQ or $0.55/$0.75/$1 MQ (from company)

Green Giant Steamers $0.98, use $0.50 IP or $1/2 MQ

Red Baron pizza $2.98, use $1/2 MQ or $0.75 MQ (from blinky at Walgreens)

Sara Lee bread $1.68, use $0.55 MQ

Red Potatoes $1.48 for 5#

Knorr pasta or rice sides $1, $1/3 IP

Doritos $2 (not a bad price for these)

Page two

---------

Kraft Philly cream cheese $1.25, use $1.25/3 MQ

Totino's pizza $1

Page three

----------

Pillsbury brownie or cake mix $1

Kellogg's cereal $6.98 for 3 when you use $1 off in ad coupon. Various coupons available

Page four

---------

Red, green or romaine leaf lettuce $1.28/lb

That is the ad folks. Happy shopping.

Walgreens catch up

2010-03-09T10:48:00.000-06:00

I just realized that I forgot to post my Walgreens trip from last week, so here is last week and this current week trips that I made.

Above is the purchases I made yesterday:

2 Walgreens brand cold medicine (hubby needed) on sale buy one get 2nd for $1- total $5.99
3 Dial body wash $0.99, used $1 IP on each
Splenda $2.99, used $1 IP on each

I used a $3 register reward from last week making my final total $7.43. My ad/coupon savings was $17.99.

Last week's trip:

2 Reach toothbrushes $0.99 with ad coupon, used $1 IP on each
2 Aveeno baby shampoo $4.63 (was 20% off), used $3/2 IP and received a $3 register reward
2 J&J cotton swabs $1.99 each with ad coupon

My total out of pocket was $11.06 with a coupon/ad savings of $9.52. I also received a $3 register reward.

What Walgreens deals did you snag?

Frugal Friday- Dishwasher soap

2010-03-05T16:08:00.000-06:00

This is a tip that I have borrowed from elsewhere on the web. It works good and is very inexpensive!

Combine 1 Tablespoon baking soda with 1 Tablespoon of Borax powder. That's it!

If you like to use a rinse agent- use plain vinegar.

One thing I have learned in my endless hours of web searching is that most of us use too much dishwasher soap and laundry soap.

Keep it simple and easy, works for me. I have used this and had no problems.

Pierce's Highlights of the Week

2010-03-03T20:08:00.000-06:00

Don't forget that the new card reward system begins Thursday the 4th. Be sure to sign up for the new card.

There is a one-day fish sale on Friday- FYI.

Also, remember that these are the deals as I see them, not a comprehensive list of all of their sales. Be sure to check the ad out for yourself or check the website.

Page one
---------
TJ Farms Hash Browns $1.25
Dole lettuce $0.88
Red or Green Grapes $1.28/lb
Old Orchard Healthy Balance Juice $1.98, use $1/2 MQ

Page two
---------
Fresh Perch Fillets $3.98/lb

Page three
----------
contains review of new rewards program

Page four
---------
Surefine OJ concentrate $1.50
TJ Farms frozen berries $1

Page five
---------
Jif pb and Smuckers jelly $1.78 each, use $1 MQ when you buy one of each
Hidden Valley Dressing $2.50, use $1 IP from the Hidden Valley website
Uncle Ben's rice $1.50, $1 MQ brown rice, $1/2 rice
Nestle Coffee-mate $2.98, use $0.75 IP or $1/2 MQ
No Yolks noodles $1.50, use BOGO MQ

Page six
---------
Cucumbers 2/$0.88
Avocados $0.98 each
Red Delicious apples 5lb $3.98- very cheap!

That is all I see for now. Happy shopping.

Kmart news

2010-03-03T19:28:00.000-06:00

Have you heard the rumors today? I read on http://www.hip2save.com/ that Kmart will be resuming a double coupon event starting April 4th.

Oh how I hope the Portage store will be participating!!!! Of course I will let you know when I have more news.

Kwik Trip Deals

2010-03-01T19:57:00.000-06:00

I noticed a couple deals the other day at Kwik Trip. I hope they are still effective this week, let me know if you see the sales are still on.

$0.99 for a dozen eggs
$1.49 for 1lb of butter sticks

Both are good prices!

Monthly Menu Plan

2010-03-01T19:55:00.001-06:00

Yippee, I got the menu plan done for the month and it is still technically the 1st! I'm not sure why I worry about it because it seems to be fairly consistent each time.

Here it is:

Chicken legs, baked beans, green beans
chicken fried rice with peas
Pork ribs, veggies
pizza
cheeseburgers, corn
Quesidillas, fruit smoothies, chili
steaks, baked potato, hot dog/mac 'n cheese
out for dinner
pork steaks, rice, veggies
breakfast for dinner
pizza
fish, rice, peas
tacos and ?
lasagna leftovers, beans and rice
chicken, rice, peas
brats and corn
spaghetti, cheese bread
pizza
pork, baked potatos, salad
turkey soup, sandwiches
steaks, potatos, veggie
chicken, rice, veggie
out to dinner
breakfast for dinner
pizza
fish sticks, shrimp, veggie
quesidillas, fruit smoothies, and ?
cheeseburgers, baked beans, salad
chicken, rice, peas
pork steaks, mac and cheese, veggie
alfredo noodles, salads.

I'm trying a couple "meatless" days this month. I haven't been wanting to eat as much meat and I have some dried beans that I need to use. I'm going to give it a try and see how it goes.

Tuesday Traders

2010-03-01T07:40:00.001-06:00

It's been a few weeks so lets do the Tuesday Traders again.

Let me know via comment on the post or by email of extra coupons you may have, or items you are specifically looking for. Be sure to leave your email too.

I have the following available:
$1.25 MQ for chocolate Cheerios (10 coupons I think?)

Contact me if you want them!

Last Call

2010-02-27T19:48:00.000-06:00

Last call for any donation for the Hope Lodge House in Marshfield and the American Cancer Society.

Email me at kendralacrosse@verizon.net or comment on this blog entry to get in touch with me to arrange for a pickup of goods.

Not sure what I'm talking about? Click here to read the story.

Thank you!

Mad Crazy Deals

2010-02-27T19:39:00.000-06:00

I got the above deal at Walmart on Thursday evening. I don't usually shop Walmart, but there were a couple items I needed that were available only there in town.

Theses shrimp poppers are $1.58, found in the frozen food fish area. Directly below the boxes were another product that SeaPak makes with a $1 peelie on them that stated "$1 off any SeaPak product". I peeled a few off (don't worry, I didn't take them all) and got each box of poppers for $0.58! My kids love these!

This Olay deal is AWESOME! I got this at Target and the deal is available until 3/27 so you have plenty of time to get it.

Buy 3 Olay body washes or 6+ bar packs of soap for $5.50 each and recieve a $5 Target gift card.

3 @ 5.50 = 16.50
                -    5.00
                  -----------
                   11.50         (but I also had coupons $1 off)
                -   3.00
                  -----------
                  $8.50

Now you can submit it to P&G for a $15.00 rebate going on right now for buying 3 packs of Olay soap or body washes.

NET= $6.50 Moneymaker !!!!!

I just love a good deal.

Pierce's Highlights for the week

2010-02-24T20:16:00.000-06:00

Here are the deals as I see them this week. There are a couple "truckload" sales going on. Check out the ad for yourself in store or online. Don't forget their new card program, be sure to sign up because it starts next week!

Page one

---------

Hormel country spare ribw $1.18/lb (very good stock up price)

Shurfine frozen veggies $1

Cauliflower $0.78/lb

Roma pizzas 4/$7

Page two

---------

Hormel pork butt roast or steaks $1.38/lb (more cheap pork!)

Gold 'n Plump whole chicken $4, use $0.75 IP from coupons.com

Pillsbury bread rolls $1.25 each, use $0.95 IP for sweet rolls, or other assorted MQ available

Aztec flour tortillas $0.98

Rhodes Warm n Serve rolls $1.88, use $1/2 MQ

Page three

-----------

Kraft Mac n Cheese 5/$3, use $1/5 IP

GM cocoa puffs or cookie crisp 2/$4, use $1/2 IP

Prego spaghetti sauce $1.88, use $0.50 MQ

Skippy peanut butter $1.78, use $0.40 MQ

Quaker instant oatmeal $2.50, use $1 MQ

Aunt Jemima pancake mix or syrup $2, use $1/2

Surefine graham cracker $1.78

Surefine mixed nuts and cashews $2.50

Page four

----------

Pears $0.98/lb

Roma tomatoes $0.88/lb

Kiwi fruit 3/$0.99

Organic bagged salad $2.50 (good price for organic)

That is all I see for now folks. Have a great week.

My teeny Walgreens trip

2010-02-23T20:35:00.000-06:00

I didn't need much, and I wasn't enthused by the sales this week so here is what I got.

1 Selsun shampoo $8.99, used $1 MQ
1 Head & Shoulders shampoo $4.99 (no coupon- what??)
3 Exedrin $2.50, used $2 IP for each
1 Ibuprofen $1.34

I used $6 in register rewards from last week to pay. My out of pocket total for the above was $11.08, with a coupon/ad savings of $20.02. A good amount of savings for what I got.

That is all for this week. How was your Walgreens scenario this week?

A Mad Crazy Deal

2010-02-20T07:48:00.000-06:00

Welcome to my new segment on this blog. I'd like to feature a deal that I got recently that was CRAZY awesome. The kind of deal you want to tell everyone about. I know I feature a lot of them to you, but there are some items that should just stand out on their own.

I want all you readers to be involved in this as well. When you get a crazy deal that you just can't believe, send me an email (kendralacrosse@verizon.net) and attach a photo so I can post it to the blog. Let brag it up and let everyone know what is possible with couponing and deal watching.

For your enjoyment....

I got this deal last week at Pierce's. There were exactly 3 of these containers of cling wrap in the carts of discontinued items at the front of the store.

Please note these are the largest size of saran (200 ft) and they are marked at $1 each.

I had a coupon for $1.50/3 making them 50 cents apiece!!!

Awesome or what?

HyVee tip from a reader

2010-02-18T20:06:00.000-06:00

From reader Tami.....

I was on the HyVee Grocery Website today and clicked on Helpful Ideas. It takes you to a page that gives you all the coupon match ups for there weekly sales and spots to click to get the coupons for there items that are on sale if you don’t have the coupon. They do accept internet coupons up to $2.50.
Happy Shopping.

Thanks for the info Tami!

No Pierce's Highlights

2010-02-18T20:05:00.000-06:00

I'm not doing the Pierce's ad this week. I am feeling under the weather and have been offline since Wednesday night because of it. There weren't a lot of coupon deals anyway, I may just skip this week except for milk.

I'll be back next week for the ad review.

Thanks for your understanding.

A chance to help others

2010-02-17T21:25:00.000-06:00

Hi all. Got the following from a fellow reader Kristin. This would be a great way to help others if you've got a lot of extra stockpile items. Check out the info....

The reason that I am emailing you is because I am a volunteer with the American Cancer Society and the Hope Lodge in Marshfield is in need of donations. I know as couponers we are able to get alot of things for cheap or almost free. Here is some information about the Hope Lodge:

"The American Cancer Society Hope Lodge in Marshfield makes the stay away from home just a little easier for those being treated for cancer. The Hope Lodge creates an environment that eases both the stress of the cancer journey and the financial challenge of receiving lifesaving treatment. WIth 22 rooms available, guests at the Marshfield Hope Lodge will save nearly $500,000 in hotel expenses this year."

I have attached a list of items that they are in need of. If anyone has any questions they can email me at k.rokus@yahoo.com or call me at 608-369-1655.

Thank you -

Here are the items currently in need....

Reusable storage containers, bags in various sizes
High quality plastic flatware
Large, heavy glasses
Dishwashing soap
Dishwasher detergent
Aluminum foil
Plastic wrap
Heavy duty plates, bowls, cups
Laundry detergent
Bleach
Fabric Softener
Toilet paper
Paper Towels
Facial Tissues
Napkins
Plastic water pitchers
Rechargeable flashlights
Plastic clothes hangers
Night lights
Umbrellas
Snow scrapers
Light bulbs – 60W and 3-way
Windex
Swiffers (wet and dry) & refills
Hand & Body Lotion
Liquid hand soap
Toilet bowl cleaner
Toilet bowl brushes
Heavy duty handiwipes

If you are able to help out, you can contact Kristin directly via email (listed above) or you can email me. I can be a drop off spot and will collect items in the Portage area. If you are able to give, let's try to get it together by the end of February.

Thanks much if you can help.

Walgreens deals

2010-02-16T19:47:00.000-06:00

I got a big stash today and want to share the deals with you.

2 Lysol toilet bowl cleaner BOGO $2.99, used $1/2 MQ
2 Crest toothpaste $2.59, used $0.75 MQ plus WAGS Feb coupon book $1.50 off each, net price of $0.24 each.
4 Skippy peanut butter $1.50, used $0.75/2 MQ
2 Frosted Flakes $1.99, used $1.50/2 IP
2 Goldfish crackers $1.50, used $0.75 IP
2 Twizzlers $1.50 each
2 Hershey chocolate bags $4, used $2 MQ plus got a $5 RR when you buy $10 worth of candy (twizzlers plus chocolate)
1 Milky Way bar (hey that's MINE!)
1 Folgers coffee $3.99 with ad coupon, also gave a $1 RR

I also used $6 in Register Rewards from last week to bring my total down to $18.19. My coupon/ad savings was $42.64! Plus I also received $6 in register rewards for next week as well.

These sales continue until Saturday!

Update on coupon inserts

2010-02-14T21:52:00.001-06:00

As you recall, a rumor was floating around about the Portage Daily Register no longer carrying coupon inserts in their Saturday newspaper. There was also question about whether the State Journal might also cancel carrying the inserts.

On the suggestion of a reader, I emailed George Althoff, the publisher of the Portage newspaper. I would like to share part of his response with you.

"Thanks for the inquiry. We were informed about three weeks ago that the company which produces the Smart Source coupons had decided to drop Portage, Baraboo and Beaver Dam from its distribution list. I called and was told it was because they had sought a rate reduction from us and that we were unwilling to meet their demands. But NO ONE in our organization has any recollection of being contacted by this company. I also was told they will review their distribution list in July. So we intend to make a new pitch to them in about April. Also, we are still inserting the Valassis coupons most weeks.

Obviously, we want their business back. But their failure to adequately communicate with us has been frustrating. We will make every effort to get these coupons back in the Daily Register.

As for the Wisconsin State Journal, I have no reason to believe there is any truth to that rumor. "

I'm not sure where to go from here, or it there is anything we can do. I hope he is right about the State Journal.

If anyone out there cancels a newspaper subscription because of this issue, please be sure to tell them why. If they keep getting feedback about this, they will be more likely to pursue it!

I will likely let my subscription run out until they resume the coupon inserts. I guess I may need to be more diligent about getting multiple copies of the Sunday paper.

Frugal Friday- leftover storage

2010-02-12T10:10:00.001-06:00

I know I didn't invent this one, but I recently started re-using my glass jars to house leftovers. I don't know why I haven't done this before.

I know we are accustomed to using the plastic containers because they are easy to use. However, I am becoming more aware of unsafe plastics and the presence of BPA in food containers so I want to move away from the plastic.

I've been afraid of freezing in glass containers and I think that is what has held me back. But some simple research is all it took to convince me to change! However, I did freeze one jar which cracked and broke. I won't use them to freeze items, but they are perfect for fridge storage.

What an easy switch and a way to re-use the resources I have in the house. Simple, simple idea!

Check out more ideas at http://www.lifeasmom.com/

Pierce's Highlights for the Week

2010-02-10T21:21:00.000-06:00

Here is my review of the good deals as I see them for the week. As always, be sure to check out their ad in person or online.

Don't forget to sign up for their new rewards card as well. It says you can earn free groceries....We will see how this program stacks up as we go along.

Page one
--------
Lobster Tails $5, not sure if this is a good deal or not but it sounds fair.
Red or green grapes $1.48, fair price for this time of year
Pizza rolls $1, use $0.50/3 MQ
Pillsbury crescent rolls/ cinnamin rolls $1.50, use $0.25/1 or $0.55/2 MQ

Page two
---------
Farmland sausage links or rolls $1, use $1, $0.75 or $0.55 MQ
Mikey's boneless/skinless chicken breast $4/2.5 lb bag, good deal folks!
Pollock fillets $2.18/lb, another great price
Country Crock spread $2, use $0.40 MQ
Welche's concentrated juice cocktail $1
Red Baron pizza $3.33, $1 MQ (found hanging in front of pizzas in case)
Bagel's forever $1

Page three
----------
Betty crocker cookie mix $1.66, use $0.40 MQ
Betty crocker cake mix $1
Chicken of the sea tuna $0.66 each can
Del Monte canned tomatoes $1
Surefine mandarin oranges canned 2/$1

Page four
---------
Dole bagged salads $1 (sure do wish I could buy ahead and freeze this when it is this cheap!)
Sugar snap peas $2.50

That is all for now folks. I'm off to email the publisher of the Daily Register to try and get some coupon answers!

My Walgreen's trip....

2010-02-09T09:48:00.001-06:00

I had a pretty good haul at Walgreen's for this week. Here's the shakedown:

Transaction #1
---------------

6 Garnier Fructis conditioner 3/$10. There were $0.75 MQ hanging by them which I used. Also, when you buy $20 worth you get $10 RR (comes to $1.08 each after RR and MQ)
3 Reese's cups $0.50 each (filler)
2 Kotex tampons $3 each, used $1.50/2 MQ and get a $3 RR when you buy two (net $1.50 per box)

I paid with $12 in Register Rewards that I had from the last trip. My out of pocket total was $11.01 with a coupon/ad savings of $21.73. I also received $13 in RR on this transaction!

Transaction #2
--------------

1 Quilted Northern TP $3.99, used $1 MQ
1 Angel Soft TP $4, used $1 IP
2 Kotex tampons $3 each, used $1.50/2 MQ and get a $3 RR when you buy two (net $1.50 per box)
2 Oreo cookies $0.99 each, used $1/2 MQ
1 Golden Oreos $3.99, IP to get free (from being facebook fan)
1 Caramel Milky Way $0.69 (filler)

I can't find my receipt for the exact numbers, but here is what I can remember. I used my $10 RR from the first purchase and paid $2 and change out of pocket. My coupon savings was at least $8.49, but I don't have the ad savings.

I think I did pretty good and was able to stock up on conditioner, TP and tampons very inexpensively!