I love getting FREE samples and coupons, but I am always careful which website I sign up for.  For instance, many companies will sell your personal information such as your name, email address, home address, your phone number, and etc.

This is one of the main reason why I don’t sign up with small, off-shelf websites … just the fear, especially, of giving out my home address and stuff.

When I do sign up to receive freebies I always read disclaimers stating that they will NOT sell your personal information.  Yes … it’s not fool proof, but I want to know they will not profit from my personal information.

With that said … I signed up with P&G website to receive online offers and promotions.  In the past I received valuable, high value, coupons and free samples through mail.  Occasionally, P&G will have extra ordinary promotions going on so I always check it out to receive goodies.

Below are the list current promotions happening right now; so sign up with P&G website, and your goodies should arrive within the next four to six weeks

Sample offers and Promotions:

Sample of Crest Complete Multi-Benefit Extra White and Scope Dual Blast Toothpaste + Coupons

Sample and $1 off Coupon for Downy Liquid Fabric Softener and Unstopables

Samples and Coupons for Pampers Cruisers Diapers

Sample and Coupon for Dawn Power Clean

Free Sample of Always Maxi LeakGuard Plus with Odor Lock

Prilosec OTC (if you qualify)

$1 off ONE Coupon for Cascade ActionPacs

$1 off ONE Charmin Coupon

$1 off ONE Charmin Fresh Mates Tub Coupon

$5 off ONE Gillette Fusion ProGlide Razor or Cartridge Pack (6 ct or larger) Coupon

$1 off ONE Ultra Duracell Coupon

$5 off ONE Olay Professional Pro-X Facial Moisturizer Coupon

$1 off ONE Gain Detergent or Fabric Enhancer

$2 off ONE Vicks product Coupon

$2 off ONE Swiffer Coupon

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Print Save $0.40 LAND O LAKES PACKAGE

Print Save $0.50 LAND O LAKES Spread

I am hoping Dillons and Gerbes will have these butter spreads for $1.00 or (10/$10 sale) again!  That would be so great!!!

Happy printing!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I have heard and read so many different ways to save money or cut costs in this tough economic conditions; however, many of these steps require “sacrifices!”

If you don’t have a choice then you need to do what you have to do to survive; but cutting costs to save extra $20 a month is a nonsense … personally speaking.

If you can cut living costs by hundreds of dollars then you should go on ahead and make proper steps to reach your goals, but I personally feel that you can cut costs without feeling of “sacrifice” or “deprived.”

I have done my steps to cut my family’s unnecessary or wasteful costs, and in turn managed to cut our spending by 60-75%.

With that said … I have not felt like I was sacrificing my life or my family’s life to pay our bills and save money.

Before I continue I need to share with you that my husband and I feel that working hard should come with benefits.  Always crunching numbers or depriving ourselves of little luxuries in our lives isn’t worth it.  For instance, you work 40 plus hours a week (working your tails off), but there isn’t any incentive for your effort … Don’t you soon feel like your life is out of your control and develop resentments?

We sure felt that way, and that is one of the reasons why I started couponing and became a wiser consumer.

It really is amazing how little luxuries in your life can change your  perspective in life and work.

Easy steps to cut costs:

1.  STOP eating out!  It is amazing how much you wind up spending, at the end of the month, just picking up food or getting your food delivered.  If you eat outside food 50% of the time, in a month period, and spend $20 (you know it’s much more, but for the sake of numbers we will stick with an even number), you wind up spending $300 a month.

With my kids having extra curriculum activities, and always around dinner time, I had difficult time trying to get dinner on the table; so my family would eat out (or eat outside food) a lot!  We would usually spending $30 at McDonalds, $25-$30 at Subway, $45 at Burger King (that is why we usually don’t go there because everything is so expensive), $50-$75 at restaurants, and $100 plus on date-nights (calculating babysitter and food).

So … let’s do the math.  In the past we would usually eat eight meals at McDonalds/month (=$240), two or three times at Burger King (=$135), 10 times at Subway (=$300), two or three times at a restaurants ($225), and a date night once a week (=$400).

If you add it all up we would spend around $1,300 (this is the best case because sometimes it’s much worse)… just on outside food!  This does not include getting groceries or having BBQs or anything like that!  I just can’t believe how much we use to spend.

Once I start cutting “fat” from our budget we will eat fast food once every two weeks, once a month we would have family dinner at a restaurant, and once a month date night.

Not only we are eating healthier, but always have dinner on the table … it took me little bit to get organized and master this but I did it.  These simple changes made up save over $1,000/month or $12,000/year!

2.  Changed our phone services.  Well … we cancelled our house phone because no one was really using it.  I think we use to use it once a week since every important calls came through our cell phones.   We even used Magic Jack to save money, but didn’t promise what they stated in their commercial.

Cancellation of house phone saved up extra $60/month or $720/year.

3.  Getting rid of memberships.  For instance, I got rid of our family’s health/gym membership because we would never go and use it.  We did use it few times to go to the pool, but we are too busy to exercise.  One of the reasons why I purchased a family membership was because when I took the kiddos to the pool they wanted me to pay over $35 to use the pool (as a non-member price).  After talking with the gym clerk she informed to me I can spend $55 a month on a family membership and use the pool anytime we want.

So thinking I will bring the kids to the pool often I thought it made financial sense … until we got so busy to go to the pool.  At the end … it’s cheaper  to pay $35 a visit rather than paying monthly $55.

Getting rid of the family membership saved me $55/month or $660/year.

4.  Cut movie services.  We used to have mail/instant stream Netflix membership for $25 a month, but discovered most of the “NEW” movies we put on the list wasn’t available.  So we wound up getting them 2-3 weeks after it was available on Netflix.  Not only we weren’t getting our moneys worth, but was really annoying since we kept on getting movies that were further down our movie list.  Thus, we switched to only “instant stream” package for $7 a month.

Savings: $18/month or $216/year

5.  Cancelled Gamefly services for the kids.  I used to buy tons of Wii games for the kids, but it was too difficult for my young kids to play or it was really lame.

Unfortunately, after you open the game you just can’t return them to the store so we got stuck with the games.  I tried to sell it at a used game store, but they would give me 1/6th of the game price.  For example, I purchased a game at Best Buy for $39.00 (without tax), but the used game store would pay me only $6!  Can you believe that?  My kids played with it for only 20 minutes.  After hearing this ridiculous offer these games are still on the game shelf until the kids are old enough to understand the game and play.

Reason why I signed up with Gamefly is that kids can play with it and if they really like it then we can go to the store and purchase it … like test it out before buying it idea.

That back fired because I kept on forgetting it to return, and the games that my kids wanted to play stay at home for weeks at a time.

So … unless you are a avid game player then game services doesn’t really make financial sense.

Saving: $24.99/month or $299.88/year

6.  REDBOX is your friend!  My husband and I watch lots of movies, after kids go to bed, to bond and have husband/wife date, and rent a movie through onDemand or Vudu.  These services usually do have movies out early, but price ranged from $3.99 to $4.99 per movie (for 24 hours once you start watching them).  We would usually watch 2-3 movies a weeks, but got very expensive at the end of the month.

I was reluctant to use REDBOX again because I kept on forgetting to return the movies, and would cost me $10-$12 a piece.  However, once I start becoming more organized I almost always return it the next day.  Let me tell you, it’s a huge huge saving!  Yes, it doesn’t have the latest movies and may have to wait extra week or so, but so worth the price.

Saving: $42/month or $504/year

7.  Smart cuponing!  I can’t stress this enough!  I used to spend so much money at the grocery store, and still didn’t have decent thing to eat at home.  Honestly, grocery budget and takeout foods were our family’s biggest cost since we are very picky eaters.  Also, watching Foodnetwork really sabotaged my budget because I would go to the store everyday to pick up all the necessary ingredients from an episode … I guess I was trying too hard.

In the past, if the recipe called for Fillet Mignon I would head to the store and pick up 5-6 pieces (at $12/piece) and make that for dinner.  Why?  Because the chefs on TV used fillet Mignon and not strip steaks!

I was a wasteful shopper and didn’t experiment too much with food; but now I experiment more with my cooking and make wiser substitute for expensive ingredients to create budget friendly meals.

Remind you that my past grocery budget didn’t include gas/fuel for the cars, “fun” money for the kids & myself, and etc.  NOW … my monthly grocery budget includes all of that plus more!

Saving:  $2,000/month or $24,000/year

These are the few steps I have taken to control our spending!  To think of it I can’t believe how wasteful I was!

It’s really amazing how cutting $10 here $20 there can save you tons of money at the end of the month!  You don’t really realize how much money you are wasting every month until you figure out how much you are spending at the end of the month.

In the beginning I would think to myself it’s $55 for a membership or $20 a month for movies, but when you start adding up … WOW … I was so wasteful!

So, to my surprise, here is my total saving (just out of seven factors I instituted) a month was $3,199.99 or $38,399.88 a year!

I am not going to lie to you guys … eating out and wasting money did make my life easier, but not $38,000 nice!  I should have own a summer house or cottage on the lake by now if I saved that much money!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Print SAVE $0.55 Brawny off ONE (1) Big Roll or Larger

Print SAVE $1.00 Brawny off ONE (1) 8-Roll or larger

Brawny paper towel coupons are back at coupons.com website!

There are two different coupons; so print which one works best for you.

In the Weekly Ad preview for Dillons and Gerbes currently have Brawny bundle pack on sale for $5.99, and have Brawny single rolls for $1.25 each (4/$5).

Either way … these prices are great!

Happy printing!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Depending on whom you talk with or what you personally believe in, purchasing warranties can be a rip-off.

My husband and I, almost always, purchase warranties on products we buy because you never know what is going to happen.  Of course, it also has to make financial sense as well.

Let me give you couple of examples as to why we purchase warranties (or extended warranties).  About six or seven years ago we bought a DLP 60” TV for our family room at Sears store.  These products were a hot ticket item because not only it was “smaller-depth” in size (compared with original big monster TV’s), but it was reasonably priced for a large screen TV.

We would have loved to have gotten a plasma or LCD TV’s, but it was priced twice as much as the DLP TVs and was still “new” to the market.  Also, we usually don’t buy the first generation models (cars or electronics) because it almost always have some sort of problems; so we wait until all the initial glitches are taken care of before purchasing or upgrading.

My parents always bought their appliances at Sears because they had the best warranties.  So, since Sears had a huge sale on TV’s my husband and I decided to purchase our first large TV there.  Let me tell you … it was really hard for me to cough up extra $400 for an extended warranty … considering the TV was on sale for $1,500 AND our goal was to keep it under $2,000!

You might think $1,500 for a TV is too much, but considering the size, home technology, and the year it was purchases it really was a great deal.  Think about it … the first cellular phones cost more than $1,000!

By the time the transaction was completed our final cost was over $2,300!  I was in shocked and told my hubby to take off the extended warranty, but my hubby kept me cool … sort of!  LOL

Anyhoot … everything was fine for the first six months then our TV lamp bursted!  We were watching TV and heard a loud crash sound and our TV went dark!  It scared the living heck out of me … I kid you not … I thought I pooped in my pants!

We called the Sears warranty division and informed us that we still had the manufacturer’s warranty and they would send us a new lamp as soon as possible.  It took about three days until the lamp finally got to our house, and with Sear’s awesome warranty service a technician came to our house and even installed it for us (while teaching me where the lamp goes and etc).

After the technician was done he gave us a print out receipt of his work, and according to the tape it would have cost us little over $500 for his services … $399 for the lamp and rest for his “in-home” service!  Thank goodness for the manufacturer’s warranty; right?

Few more months passed by and same thing happened again; so, we repeated our steps.  I don’t know if we used our TV too much or we just purchased a lemon, but we went through about six(6) different lamps (all bursting from heat) until we received a official letter from Toshiba company regards to the lamps.  Apparently, their lamps were “defecting” and working on new (longer lasting) lamps; which will be delivered to our house in few weeks.

After the eight (8th) lamps I almost called it quits until the warranty division informed us that they would send us a backup one (so we won’t be out of TV for days), and can call them anytime.  So … with this math … we got our money’s worth and PLUS!  There would have been no way we can cough up $500 every time this happened … that would be been $4,000 in replacement parts and repair!

Moreover, when we purchased all of our kitchen appliances, at Lowe’s, we also purchased extended warranties on stove, dishwasher, refrigerator, microwave, and washer and dryer!  Lowe’s at the time had bundle warranties … three large appliances for $175 for three years!  So … we paid $350 for all six large appliances (compared to $400 at Sears … you can see why we went to Lowes).

Anyhow, our money was well spent because Lowe’s had to come and fix my dishwasher four (4) times (and replaced the mother board once), fix my washing machine two (2) times, and my stove one (1) time.

I guess I am a bull because I can’t have this much bad luck!  However, the Lowe’s technician informed me that it was not my fault and everything had “certain amount of life” … especially if I used them every day!

My husband told me while back that I use what I buy.  For instance, spending $300 on an iPhone (when it first came out) is worth it because I actually use my technology (not just for music and APPs) for everything!  So, its same thing with my appliances … I run my dishwasher every day, run my washer and dryer every other day, and etc … its same thing with my wardrobes and towels.  Can you guys believe that I still own and use bath towels I had in college … 18 years ago!  I actually still have my beach towel when I was a little kid!  This is why my husband never questions when I purchase something because I will use the heck out of them!  LOL

So … with all that ranting and raving … I think warranties are SO worth it!  However, paying $100 warranty on $200 product isn’t worth.  For example, we purchase $150 Black Tie warranty at Best Buy when we purchase a mini laptop ($350) couple of years ago.  Unfortunately, our littlest one dropped it and had a big crack on the screen.  Thinking the warranty will be valid I took it to the Best Buy store.  To my surprise … accidental drop isn’t covered, and the technician informed me that they can send to the manufacturer to get it fix, BUT it would cost around $250 (best scenario) to fix it!

Are you crazy?  I felt like a donkey because I coughed up $150 for a warranty … my fault I didn’t pay attention to that detail!  With lesson learned I didn’t get it fixed because by the time they were done it would have cost close to the new mini-top.  Same applies to the Kindle Fire and Nintendo 3DS because they wanted $97 for a electronic stuff warranty, but accidental drop wasn’t covered … so I passed on the warranty.

My final point is that math has to make sense before spending extra money on warranties.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Depending on which store you go to RAYOVAC batteries’ prices differ drastically; however, I have discovered that Walmart has the best price when it comes to RAYOVAC batteries … the four (4) count batteries.

Rayovac batteries at Walmart ONLY costs $0.97 for a pack … you can pick up AA, AAA, or D batteries!

With this printable coupon you can pick one up for only $0.42!

Print $0.55 off RAYOVAC coupons

Happy Printing!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Here is this week’s weekly ad preview for Gerbes and Dillons stores!  Lucky for us the MEGA savings are still continuing at Dillons and Gerbes stores!  There are few more items added to this week’s sale event!  Yeah!  Remember to check ALL your printable coupons as well!

Remember … selections and variations will differ by geographic/regional locations and individual stores!  With that said … Happy hunting!

Axe Shower Gel $2.99
$2/2 Axe Products Kroger eCoupon

Balance Bar $0.49

Birds eye Steamfresh Vegetables $1.49
$0.50/1 Birds Eye Steamfresh Chef’s Favorites Variety 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/28/2012)
$0.50/1 Birds Eye Steamfresh Chef’s Favorites Variety 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/26/2012)

Blue Diamond Almond Breeze (1/2 gal) $1.99
$1/1 Blue Diamond Almonds, 6 oz 01/29/2012 SS Insert (exp 04/30/2012)

Brawny Paper Towels $5.99
$2.00/1 Brawny 6-roll Paper Towels Kroger eCoupons

Bumble Bee Tuna or Ready To Eat Salad Kit $0.78

Capri Sun or Kool-Aid Jammers $1.49

Cheez-It Crackers $2.29
$1/2 Keebler Crackers and/or Sunshine Cheez-it Baked Crackers 01/29/2012 RP Insert (exp 03/25/2012)

Crest Pro-health or whitening toothpaste $2.99
$1/2 Crest Toothpaste or Liquid Gel, 4 oz+ 01/29/2012 P&G Insert (exp 02/29/2012)

Daisy Sour Cream $1.49

DiGiorno or California Pizza Kitchen Pizza $4.99
$2/2 DiGiorno Large Pizza 01/29/2012 RP Insert (exp 02/05/2012)

Dove or Degree Deodorant $2.99
$2/1 Dove Clinical Protection 01/29/2012 RP Insert (exp 02/26/2012)
$1/1 Degree Women Premium Antipers/Deo or Body Mist 01/29/2012 RP Insert (exp 02/26/2012)
$1/1 Degree Men Adrenaline Series Antipers/Deo 01/29/2012 RP Insert (exp 02/26/2012)

Edy’s or Turkey Hill Ice Cream $2.29

Frito Lay Natural Snacks $1.99

Garden of Eatin’ Tortilla Chips $1.69
$1/2 Garden of Eatin Chips, 6 oz+ 01/22/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/22/2012)

Good’n Natural Bar $0.49

Handi-Foil Foilware $3.29

Healthy Choice Entree $1.99

Heinz Ketchup $1.79
$1/1 Heinz 57, 10 oz+ 01/29/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/31/2012)

Hebrew National Beef Franks $2.99

Horizon Organic Milk (3 pk 8 oz singles) $2.29

Hormel Chili or Chili Master $0.78
$0.55/2 Hormel Chili 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/15/2012)

Hunt’s tomatoes or Paste $0.49
$0.45/3 Hunt’s Canned Tomatoes, 11 0z+ 01/22/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/04/2012)

I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter $1.49
$0.50/1 I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter 01/29/2012 RP Insert (exp 02/26/2012)

Izze Sparkling Juice (4 pk 12 oz bottles) $3.49

Keebler Cookies $1.99

Kellogg’s Fruit Snacks $1.69

Kingsford or Match Light Charcoal $4.49

Kleenex Facial Tissue $0.99
$0.75/1 Kleenex Hand Towels 01/29/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/26/2012)

Kraft Deluxe Macaroni & cheese or Velveeta Shells & Cheese (9.4-14 oz) $1.29

Kraft Easy Mac or Velveeta Shells & Cheese $0.49

Kraft Mayo or miracle Whip $2.79

Kraft Salad Dressing $1.79
$0.75/2 Kraft Dressing 1/22/2012 SS (exp 2/19/2012)

Kraft Singles $1.99

Kroger Orange Juice (1 gal) $2.99

Lay’s Kettle Cooked Potato Chips $1.99

Lay’s Potato chips $1.99
$0.55/2 Lays Potato chips AND Lay’s Dips 1/22/2012 (exp 2/5/2012)

Lipton Naturals Tea Bottle $0.49

M&M’s Candy $2.19
SAVE $1.00 on M&M

Marie Callender’s Entree or Pot Pie $1.99

Maxwell House or Yuban Coffee $8.49

Mom’s Best Naturals Cereal $0.99

Monster energy Drink $1.29

Nabisco Snack Crackers $1.99

Nestle Toll House Ready To Bake Cookies $2.29

Oral-B CrossAction Toothbrush $2.99
$0.75/1 Oral-B Pulsar, 3D White, Pro Health, Complete Manual Toothbrush Kroger eCoupon

Ore-Ida Potatoes $2.49

Oroweat Bread $2.79

Oscar Mayer Beef Franks $2.99

Oscar Mayer Lunch Meat $2.69

Ozarka Water (24 bottles) $3.49

Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Crackers $0.99

Pepsi Soft Drinks $0.99

Philadelphia Cream cheese $0.99
$0.65/1 Philadelphia tub Kroger eCoupon

Pop-Tarts $1.69

Post Cereal $1.99
$0.55/1 Post Pebbles Cereal 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/26/2012)
$1/1 Post Grape-Nuts or Grape-Nuts Flakes 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/26/2012)
$1/1 Post Shredded Wheat 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/26/2012)

Propel Fitness Water $0.49

Quaker Chewy Granola Bars $1.99
$1/2 Quaker Chewy Granola or SmashBar Bars 01/08/2012 RP Insert (exp 02/18/2012)
$1/1 ONE (1) Quaker Chewy Bar

Quilted Bathroom Tissue $5.99
$2/1 Quilted Northern Bathroom Tissue Kroger eCoupon

Ragu Pasta Sauce $1.26
$0.50/1 Ragu 01/29/2012 RP Insert (exp 02/26/2012)
$1.25/3 Rague Pasta Sauce 1/29/2012 (exp 2/26/12)

Ritz Crackers $1.99

SoBe Juice, Tea or Lifewater $0.75

Sunny D $0.99
$0.55/2 Sunny Delight Products 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/31/2012)

Tostitos Queso or Salsa Dip $2.49

Tostitos Torilla Chips $2.49

Tropicana Orange Juice or Trop50 Juice $2.49
$1/1 Trop50 (59 oz bottle)

Turkey Hill Tea or Lemonade (1 gal) $1.49

Van’s Waffles, Pancakes or French Toast Sticks $1.99

Wanchai Ferry or Macaroni Grill skillet Meal $5.49

Welch’s Juice $1.99
$1/1 Welch’s Light Grap Juice (64 oz) 11/6/2011 (exp 2/6/2012)

Amy’s Chili (14.7 oz) $2.99

Baker’s Buns 4/$5

Bar-S Franks or Bologna 4/$5

Butterfinger, Baby Ruth or 100 Grand Candy 10/410

Coca-Cola or Pepsi or 7UP Soft Drinks(12 pk) — Buy 4, SAVE $1 — FINAL COST $3.00 each

Doritos 2/$5

GladWare Disposable Food Storage Containers $1.88

Huggies Diapers, Pull-UP or GoodNites $19.49
$2/1 Huggies Pull-ups 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/11/2012)
$2/1 Huggies Little Movers Slip on Diapers 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/11/2012)
$1/1 Huggies Diapers 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/11/2012)

Huggies Wipes (320-400 ct) $9.49
$0.50/1 Huggies Baby Wipes, 64 ct 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/11/2012)

Jack’s Pizza or Tombstone Pizza 3/$9
$1/2 Jack’s Pizza 01/29/2012 RP Insert (exp 03/31/2012)

Johnsonville Brats, Italian or Chicken Sausage $3.77
$1/2 Johnsonville Sausage 01/22/2012 SS Insert (exp 04/02/2012)
$1/1 Johnsonville Pork or Chicken Sausage 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 04/01/2012)
$1.50/1 Johnsonville Chicken Sausage 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 04/01/2012)
$1/1 Johnsonville Chicken Sausage 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 04/01/2012)

Johnsonville Smoked Brats, Kroger Cocktail or Hillshire Farm Lit’l Smokies 2/$6
$0.55/1 Hillshire Farm Rope 1/29/12 RP (exp 3/24/2012)

Kroger cheese or singles 3/$5

Kroger Home Sense Bathroom Tissue $3.99

L’Oreal Ever Cream Shampoo or conditioner 2/$12
$2/1 L’Oreal EverCreme, EverSleek, EverPure, EverStrong Treatment, Kroger eCoupon, Kroger eCoupon
$1/1 L’Oreal EverStyle Product 01/22/2012 RP Insert (exp 03/18/2012)
$1/1 L’Oreal EverCreme, EverSleek, EverPure, EverStrong Treatment 01/22/2012 RP Insert (exp 03/18/2012)
$1/1 L’Oreal EverCreme, EverSleek, EverPure, EverStrong Shampoo or Conditioner 01/22/2012 RP Insert (exp 03/18/2012)
$1/1 L’Oreal EverCreme, EverSleek, EverPure or EverStrong Treatment 01/01/2012 RP Insert (exp 02/26/2012)

Marie Callender’s Pie (28-46 oz) $4.99

Met-Rx Bar 3/$5

Ocean Spray 100% Juice or Juice Cocktail or Light $1.99
$1/2 Ocean Spray Grapefruit Juice or Juice Drinks, p. 136-137 Better Homes & Garden, Oct 2011 (exp 02/28/2012)
$1/2 Ocean Spray Grapefruit Juice or Juice Drinks, 64 oz+, P.126-127 Shape, Oct 2011 (exp 02/28/2012)
$1/2 Ocean Spray Grapefruit Juice or Juice Drinks, 64 oz+ Fitness, Oct 2011 (exp 02/28/2012)
$1/2 Ocean Spray Grapefruit or Juice Drinks, 64 oz, p.52-53 Women’s Day, Oct 2011 (exp 02/28/2012)

Oscar Mayer Deli Sandwich Combos or Complete Lunchables $3.29

Simple Truth Organic Milk (1/2 gal) $2.79

Stouffer’s entree (57-96 oz) $9.99
$2/1 Stouffer’s Entree, 28 – 96 oz 01/29/2012 RP Insert (exp 04/30/2012)

Suave Professional or Kids Shampoo or Conditioner $1.85
$1/2 Suave Professionals Hair Products 01/08/2012 RP Insert (exp 02/05/2012)
$1/2 Suave Men’s Hair Products 01/08/2012 RP Insert (exp 02/05/2012)
$1/2 Suave Kids Hair Products 01/08/2012 RP Insert (exp 02/05/2012)

Totino’s Pizza rolls (90 ct) $6.99
$.40/2 Totino’s Rolls Snacks 01/29/2012 SS Insert (exp 04/21/2012)
$0.35/1 Totino’s Rolls Snacks 01/29/2012 SS Insert (exp 04/21/2012)
$0.40/2 Totino’s Rolls Snacks 01/08/2012 GM Insert (exp 03/31/2012)
$0.35/1 Totino’s Rolls Snacks 01/08/2012 GM Insert (exp 03/31/2012)

Tyson chicken or Any’Tizers $5.99
$1/1 Tyson Any’tizers Snacks 01/22/2012 SS Insert (exp 04/22/2012)
$1/1 Tyson Grilled & Ready Frozen Products 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 04/08/2012)
$1/1 Tyson Grilled & Ready frozen chicken breast chunks 11/06/2011 SS Insert (exp 02/05/2012)

WholeSoy Yogurt $0.89

Avocados $0.88 each

Bananas $0.44/lb

California Mandarins (3 lb bag) $3.99

Fresh Selections Garden Salad $0.98

Iceberg Lettus $0.88

Pears 4/$5

Private Selection Organic Salad $2.99

Red Bell Peppers or English cucumbers 4/$5

Red Seedless Grapes $1.88/lb

Red Tomatoes on the Vine $1.48/lb

Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries or Blackberries $2.99

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

After hearing all the good things about the FIVE GUYS BURGERS AND FRIES, from my friends and neighbors, I finally got the courage to eat lunch there with my family.

It’s not like I was scared of eating restaurant foods, because I really do enjoy eating out, but reluctant to eat ground meat.  Here is my problem … I love the texture of meat, but I do NOT enjoy the taste of meat.

Let me clarify little bit more because I thought I was the only crazy one with this “problem,” but it’s more common than not.

When I say I don’t enjoy the taste of meat means that I don’t want my “meat” to taste like meat.  I know it defeats the purpose because the whole point of eating meat is to enjoy the taste of meat; right?

Personally for me … the meat flavor reminds me of raw meat … smell of blood!  Yuck!

So … there is my dilemma … I don’t want my meat not tasting like meat!  It’s it crazy isn’t it?

Back to my point … people have been ranting and raving about this burger joint!  The best burger … the best fries … blah, blah, blah!

Well … I have to disappoint the company and my friends … I didn’t think it was all that great!  Yes … it’s superior than McDonalds or Burger King burgers, but it didn’t have the “WOW” factor.

Here are the pros:

1.  Food came very fast

2.  Very structured menu (this is also negative and will be discussed further in the cons section)

3.  Food was steaming hot!

4.  Fries, especially the Cajun ones, were delicious

Here are the cons:

1.  No children’s menu available (so it’s really not family friendly to me).

2.  Very limited items on the menu.  I know this place is a burger joint, but I thought they would have some sort of chicken sandwiches or something.  However, they do have vegetarian menu, but not for chicken lovers … guess, you have to go to Chick-Fil-A for that.

3.  There isn’t any combination menu items … everything is ala cart so it does get expensive.  For instance, you have to order burgers, fries and a drink … so there isn’t any combination price saving.

4.  EXPENSIVE!  For example, we paid $42.00 (and some change) to feed family of four (two adults and two kids).  I was really in a shock, but told myself these burgers are supposed to be AWESOME!  I honestly wouldn’t have mind paying $42 if the food was great, but I personally didn’t think it was $42 great.

5. This specific joint we went to was rather on the dirty side.  Having white floor does come with extra up-keeps, and this particular franchise didn’t do their diligence to keep the place clean.  Also, the tables weren’t wiped down; so I had to use my handy Chorlox wipes to clean the table and chairs down.

All-in-all, I wouldn’t go back there to eat again.  Not only it was really expensive, but the ambiance wasn’t that great.

By no means I am bashing ALL FIVE GUYS joints, because I have not been to every one of them, but this particular one we went to wasn’t up to my expectations.  Maybe I went there with higher expectations (because of raving reviews) or something, but I wouldn’t spend another $42 again.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Ok … I finally went to Big Lots this morning!

One of the reasons why I have not been to Big Lots is because I never saw, in commercials and paper ads, any real good deals.   For instance, BL had a “leather” sectionals on sale for $700 (during Holiday season), but I personally thought it was rather expensive considering it is a discount store (selling closeout products).

I bought, a year or so ago, a sectional at a local discount furniture store, and was able to bring the price down to $750 … so, $700 wasn’t a big deal to me.

With that said … since I had an hour to kill I decided to see what Big Lots store had to offer.  Surprise … surprise … they had some good stuff there!

I didn’t buy any furniture or anything, but found a Cuisineart coffee maker for $49!  These little babies cost around $99 at Kohls and Bed, Bath and Beyond when they go on sale.  Of course I would ONLY purchase them if I had 20% discount card (which are usually mailed to my house), but with additional discounts I would still have to pay around $80!

Yes … I would be purchasing an older model, if I bought the machine at the Big Lots store, but it still does come with ONE (1) full year of manufacturer’s warranty!  So, it’s really not a big deal.

Of course, I found whole bunch of goodies there, but I restrained myself from buying unnecessary things and focused on groceries aisles.

I was really shocked how many different things they were selling.  There were basic brand products (i.e. Hunts, Heinz, Nabisco and etc.) to imported sweets, cans, pastas and etc.

I wasn’t going to buy anything, that was my original plan, but I found so many goodies!  By sheer accident, I came across closeout aisles, and found imported cookies from Germany, Pop Tarts, canned vegetables, chips, and etc.

From family members and friends always bringing European pastries and sweets I developed great appreciations and taste for these little babies!  I honestly can eat boxes and boxes of these sweets!  I am getting hungry just thinking about it!

In addition to European cookies, I picked up few boxes of Oreo cookies, PopTarts, and Frosted Flakes (8 individual boxed cereals in a package).  I was little bit reluctant to purchase them because I was thinking to myself I can’t use coupons here!!

However, once I settled myself down I did the math.  For instance, Oreo cookies were on sale at Big Lots for $1.25, but I usually pay $1.50 – $2.00 at Dillons/Gerbes (this is after mega deals and using my coupons); so paying $1.25 at BL was worth it.

Also, PopTarts were also on sale for $1.25 (16 toasters) – at Dillons/Gerbes they would have them on sale for $1.49 (at lowest price point – with 8 toasters), but would have to purchase THREE (3) items to use my coupons.  With that math I would pay around $3.50 for 24 toasters … so it’s really isn’t much savings!  I honestly don’t buy PopTarts, but my kids been begging me to get them so this will be a great surprise for them!  I am a such a great mom!!!  LOL

So … after spending $15 at Big Lots this morning I am more persuaded to stop by that store much more often.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Log onto your facebook account to print your own $1.00 OFF Any ONE (1) 59 oz Trop50 Product.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Just want to share with you that Dillons and Gerbes have their special online promotions going on right now.  Below products are ALL in the Gerbes and Dillons weekly sale ad!  Make sure to log into your account and upload coupons everyday!  Some of these coupons are awesome!!!!

CLICK HERE to see the DEALS of the DAY coupons:

1/26/2012 — SAVE $0.65 on Philadelphia

1/27/2012 — SAVE $1.50 on OSCAR MAYER Carving Board Meats (7.5 oz)

1/28/2012 — SAVE $2.00 on Quilted Northern Bathroom Tissue

1/29/2012 — SAVE $2.00 on Brawny Paper Towels (6 Big Rolls)

1/30/2012 — SAVE $0.75 on Frank’s RedHot (12 oz or larger)

1/31/2012 — SAVE $1.50 on Frito-Lay dip (15 oz or larger, NO SALSA/QUESO)

2/1/2012 — save $2.00 on Gatorade (8-pk)

2/2/2012 — SAVE $2.50 on VELVEETA 32 oz

2/3/2012 — SAVE $1.00 on ONE (1) Quaker Chewy Bar

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Great sales going on this week!  Our sales starts on Wednesday, but here’s the heads up!  Great time to stock up on many basic/staple items into your pantry!  Or … just shop till you drop for football game weekends!

Please remember that selections and variations will differ by geographic/regional locations, and individual stores itself!

With that said … Happy Hunting!

Note: Also, the coupon database I was using is not working properly for some reason, so there will be couple of coupons missing (I know there are coupons for them so I have to manually look through my inserts).

GAME DAY: SAVE $5.00 INSTANTLY AT CHECKOUT when you mix or match any 10 participating products:

Advil Pain Reliever (20-24 ct) $3.39
$1/1 Advil PM, 16 ct+ 12/11/2011 RP Insert (exp 02/11/2012)

Airborne Dietary Supplement $5.49
$2/1 Airborne Product 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 04/01/2012)

Arm & Hammer Advance White or Sensititive Toothpaste $2.49

Axe Deodorant $2.99
$1/1 Axe Bodyspray, 4 oz+, Deodorant and Antiperspirant, 2.7 oz+ or Deodorant, 3 oz 01/08/2012 RP Insert (exp 02/04/2012)
$2/2 Axe Products Kroger eCoupon

Axe Shampoo $3.99
$2/2 Axe Products Kroger eCoupon

Axe Shower Gel or Dove or Degree Deodorant $2.99
$2/2 Axe Products Kroger eCoupon

Balance Bar or Good’n Natural Bar $0.49

Birds Eye Steamfresh Vegetables $1.49
$0.50/1 Birds Eye Steamfresh Chef’s Favorites Variety 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/28/2012)
$0.50/1 Birds Eye Steamfresh Chef’s Favorites Variety 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/26/2012)

Blue Diamond Almond Breeze $1.99
$1/2 Blue Diamond Almond Breeze Almondmilk Chilled or Shelf Table 10/16/2011 SS Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Brawny Paper Towels $5.99
SAVE $0.55 Brawny off one (1) or larger Package

Bumble Bee Tuna or Ready To Eat Salad Kit $0.78

Capri Sun or Kool-Aid Jammers $1.49

Cheez-It Crackers $2.29

Crest Pro-Health or Whitening toothpaste $2.99

Daisy Sour Cream $1.49

DiGiorno or California Pizza Kitchen Pizza $4.99

Edge or Skintimate Shave Gel $1.49
$0.55/1 Edge Shave Gel, 7oz+ 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/26/2012)
$0.55/1 Skintimate Shave Gel 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/26/2012)

Edy’s or Turkey Hill Ice Cream $2.99

Frito Lay Natural Snacks $1.99

Garden of Eatin’ tortilla Chips $1.69
$1/2 Garden of Eatin Chips, 6 oz+ 01/22/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/22/2012)

Gatorade or G2 (8 pk) $4.99

Handi-Foil Foilware $3.29

Healthy Choice Entree or Marie Calender’s Entree or Pot Pie $1.99
$0.75/2 Healthy Choice Frozen Cafe Steamers 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/31/2012)
SAVE $0.50 Marie Callender’s

Hebrew National Beef Franks $2.99

Heinz Ketchup $1.79

Hormel Chili or chili Master $0.78
$0.55/2 Hormel Chili 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/15/2012)
SAVE $0.55 HORMEL on purchase of any two (2) HORMEL Chili products

Hunt’s tomatoes or Paste $0.49
$0.45/3 Hunt’s Canned Tomatoes, 11 0z+ 01/22/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/04/2012)

I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter $1.49
SAVE $1.00 OFF on ICBINB

Keebler Cookies $1.99

Kellogg’s Fruit Snacks or Pop-Tarts $1.69

Kingsford or Match Light Charcoal $4.49

Kleenex Facial Tissue $0.99
$0.50/3 Kleenex Facial Tissues, box or Bundle pack 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 01/29/2012)
$0.50/1 Kleenex Cool Touch Facial Tissue, 50 ct+ 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 01/29/2012)

Kraft Deluxe Macaroni & Cheese or Velveeta Shells & Cheese $1.29

Kraft Easy Mac or Velveeta Shells & Cheese $0.49

Kraft Mayo or Miracle Whip $2.79

Kraft Salad Dressing $1.79

Kraft Singles $1.99

Kroger Orange Juice (1 gal) $2.99

Lay’s Kettle Cooked Potato Chips or Potato Chips $1.99

Lipton Natural Tea $0.49

M&M Candy $2.19

Marzetti Veggie Dips $2.493

Maxwell House Coffee $8.49

Melitta Basket Coffee Filters $1.29

Mom’s Best Naturals Cereal $0.99

Monster Energy Drink $1.29

O-Cel-O Scrub Sponges $2.99

Oral-B CrossAction Toothbrush $2.99
$0.75/1 Oral-B Pulsar, 3D White, Pro-Health, Complete or Cavity Defense Manual Toothbrushes 12/11/2011 RP Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$0.75/1 Oral-B Pulsar, 3D white, Pro-Health, Complete Manual Toothbrushes 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Ore-Ida Potatoes $2.49

Oscar Mayer Beef Franks $2.99

Pepperidge Farm Goldfish Crackers $0.99

Pepsi Soft Drinks (2 liter) $0.99

Philadelphia Cream Cheese $0.99

Post Cereal $1.99
$0.55/1 Post Pebbles Cereal 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/26/2012)
$1/1 Post Grape-Nuts or Grape-Nuts Flakes 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/26/2012)
$1/1 Post Shredded Wheat 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/26/2012)

Propel Fitness Water $0.49

Quaker Chewy Granola Bars $1.99
$1/2 Quaker Chewy Granola or SmashBar Bars 01/08/2012 RP Insert (exp 02/18/2012)

Quilted Northern Bathroom Tissue $5.99

Ritz Crackers or Nabisco Snack Crackers $1.99
$3/3 Nabisco Honey Maid, Newtons, Ritz Crackerfuls, Teddy Grahams, Wheat Thins, and Triscuit 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 01/27/2012)
$2/3 Nabisco Honey Maid, Newtons, Ritz, Crackerfuls, Teddy Grahams, Snack Well’s, Wheat Thins, 100 Cal and Triscuit 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 01/27/2012)

Schick XTreme 3 or Slim Twin Disposable Razors $5.49
$2/1 Schick Disposable Razor Pack, not valid on 2 count 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/19/2012)
$3/2 Schick Disposable Razor, excludes 2 ct 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/19/2012)
$1/1 Schick Disposable Razor, excludes 2 ct 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/29/2012)

SoBe Juice, Tea or Lifewater $0.75

SunnyD $0.99

Tostitos Tortilla Chips or Salsa or Queso Dip $2.49

Tropicana Orange Juice or Trop50 Juice $2.49.

Tums antacid $3.49

Wanchai Ferry or Macaroni Grill Skillet Meal $5.49

Zantac Acid Reducer $6.49

SAVINGS IN EVERY AISLE:

7UP Soft Drinks 4/$10

Armour LunchMakers $0.88

Bar-S Franks $0.88

Big K Soft Drinks 2/$5

Butterball Turkey Bacon or Chicken Strips 2/$5

Doritos 2/$5

Hillshire Farm Smoked Sausage $2.87

Jack’s Pizza or Tombstone Pizza 3/$9

Jell-O Tempatations or Instant Pudding or Gelatin 2/$5

Kroger Arctic Blasters or Kroger Ice Pix 2/$5

Kroger Cashews or Mixed Nuts $2.99

Kroger Cheese or Singles 2/44

Kroger Cinnamon, Crescent Rolls or Jumbo Biscuits 4/$5

Kroger cottage Cheese, Sour Cream or Dip 4/$5

Kroger Yogurt 10/$4

Old Yeller Dog Food $14.99

Oscar Mayer Bologna, Lunchables or Lunch Meat 2/$4

Tide Laundry Detergent $5.99

Totino’s Pizza Rolls $6.99

Tyson Chicken or Any’tizers $5.99

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I am a typical girl when it comes to make up … I love makeup, but why should I spend so much money on them.

If you have sensitive skin or hard to match skin or allergies and etc I understand sticking with expensive brands (because you have had great experience with them), but if you are like me then accessory makeup should be easy on the wallet.

I do, however, spend good money on foundation because it does go on your full face.  Here are my reason why I have specific brand:

1.  I have hard to match skin undertone.  I don’t have fully olive undertone, but rather it’s in between olive and yellow undertone to it.

2.  MAC foundation I use does not make me break out.  I did try drug store foundations like Revlon Photoready and Colorstay, L’Oreal True Match, CoverGirl Trublend and Almay Pure Blends, but I am sticking with MAC foundation for now.

I did also use Bareminerals and Everyday minerals as well in the past.

Moreover, I have also used Clinique and Lancome foundations, but I kept on breaking out and didn’t have the FULL coverage as I wanted to so it’s not how much money you spend on foundations … it’s all about how it works on your face.   If $3 bottle of foundation works for you then stick with it!  I am all about what works for you rather than how much it costs!

I do still purchase drug store foundations like Revlon Photoready and Colorstay, but I use them when I am going to be home or going to the pool.  I am a type of person that feels “naked” without my makeup; so I always have makeup on!  Don’t get me wrong … I really do love Revlon foundations because it does cover my face beautifully!

With that said … let’s talk about accessory makeup.  What do I mean by accessory makeup?  I am talking about eye shadows, blushes, lip glosses, brow pencils, brushes and etc.

I am a big fan of watching YOUTUBE videos to learn new techniques or product reviews and tutorials, and cost saving beauty techniques.  However, I have noticed that most of these women use expensive eye, lip, face, and brush products.  For instance, they use MAC or Stila or Bobbi Brown or Urban Decay and etc.

In the beginning I wanted to purchase MAC or Smashbox or Stila brushes, but these little babies run between $15 to $65 a piece!  Can you believe it?  $15 brushes are simple eye shadow brushes!  Call me cheap … I am not spending that much money on them!

So … what is my alternative plan?  I started to purchase elf brushes.  I do have couple MAC brushes because my sister hand it down to me … she is not a big makeup person and she used them one time … lucky for me I took them without looking back!  I have to tell you though … they are great brushes!  It’s very soft and easy to work with when blending eye shadows!

Because I know how expensive brushes are supposed to feel I know what kind of brush I was looking for; but without paying lots of money.  I did purchase few elf brushes in the past, but these brushes had very short life … it just didn’t last long!

However, eight or so months ago I learned that HyVee grocery store started selling elf cosmetics.  Since it was only $1.00 a piece for a eyeshadow and a blending brush I decided to take it home (of course, I paid them at the register!  LOL).  Honestly, if it doesn’t work then I only lost $2.00 rather than $30.

Wow … elf cosmetic company really improved their products!  The brushes were soft and grabbing powder was really fluid!  I couldn’t believe it!

The next day I grabbed few more brushes and never looked back!  I started to purchase their blushes (which are very pigmented!  YEAH!), lip glosses, false eyelashes, and etc.

Most of the elf products are $1.00 a piece, but they do have $3.00 and up products; which are still much cheaper than other products!

With that said … I have been very happy with elf products and my face is still clean and clear!

Unless I win a big lotto, where I can spend $1,200 on a face cream or have a permanent makeup artist on staff (wouldn’t that be nice?), I am going to keep buying elf products.

Before I forget … I do have a little problem with “some” elf brushes.  I did notice that the seam (metal and the handle part) does disassemble in time, but I use super glue to put them together … so no real big problem; just little annoyance!  However, this little annoyance will not stop me from purchasing them.

Cheers!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

It’s beginning of a New Year (per say) and few dietary changes will be made.

Since the weather has been very cooperative I started on my “spring cleaning,” and decided to go through my closet.

I swop out my “fall/winter” clothes to my “spring/summer” clothes every year because not only this makes my closet organized, but makes finding clothes more efficiently.

Anyhow, while I was looking through my spring/summer clothes I came across my favorite pair of summer jeans!  Yeah!  Then the reality hit me!  I couldn’t button it!  I tried to suck in my guts, but there was absolutely no HOPE!

Being frantic, at this point, I went to the bathroom to weigh my self!  WHAT???  165 lb?  What the heck happened?

I usually will gain 5-8 lbs during winter months, but not 15 lbs!!!

I know I will never go back to my “before” kids weight (135 lbs) and I honestly was happy being 150 lbs (I made peace with it), but gaining 15 lbs and having possibilty of buying whole new wardrobe set is unacceptable!  Well … that’s a thought!  This might not sound too bad!  LOL

Silly me decided to download an Weight-App on my iPhone to track my weight.  However, this particular APP had other functions so I decided to play with it little bit.

It asked me how tall I was, my age was, and etc.  At the end of the questionnaire it stated that I should be 137 lb … that was my ideal weight for my age and my height curve!  Also, on the bottom of the screen it said I was very close to reaching obesity!  Are you serious?

Are you kidding me?  At my skinniest I was 135 lb … that was LONG before having kids with accelerated young metabolism!

As you can expect … I deleted such crazy APP, and decided to make few changes.

I am type of a person that if you tell me “NO” or “can’t do it” then I will want to do it more … I know it’s really juvenile!

I have tried Jenny Craig in the past, and after 2 (TWO) days of eating their food I gave up!  Why?  Because I couldn’t have anything else!  I have also tried Sensa, and that gave me the “runs…”  Wow .. that wasn’t pretty at all!

So … in order to avoid feeling of “deprived of food,” I decided to eat everything and anything … BUT, in small portions.

I have been doing this routine for past 7 days and have already lost 5 lbs.  My hubby said it was “water weight,” but I have been drinking water like a crazy lady, so I am going with my theory.

Anyhoot … this is what I have been doing.

1.  Drink at least 5 bottles of water … through out the day.  I have noticed that I have to go to the bathroom alot, but it had many skin look better!

2.  Do NOT drink diet drinks because I don’t want my body to feel it is not getting real sugar.  I have read somewhere, while back, that people who drink diet drinks to avoid extra calories wind up tricking their bodies; so when they eat sugar the body stores them like crazy … which in turn, turns into fat!

3.  Graze … Graze.  Eat throughout the day!  Eating 5 (five) times a day if possible!

4.  Eat 1/2 of what you were eating: i.e. if you eat a whole cheeseburger in the past then cut it in half and eat that much only!

5.  I have a jar of Special K cereal out so when I feel little hungry I just grab a small hand full and eat it.  This way your stomach has something to work with, and keeps the food craving down.

6.  Before dinner time I grab a cookie … well, it’s Who’nu cookie because of product’s claim (serving of veg, and etc).  Why do I do this?  Well … unfortunatley, if I am on a diet or not I have to make food for the family.  This is one of the main reasons why “mommies” can’t keep weight down because they are making food for their family and wound up eating eating and tasting everything.  So .. this way I am not tempted to grab a spoon full of pasta or potato or whatever it is I am cooking for the fam.

7.  If I am eating a dessert … I use my 5 bite/spoon rule (of course this is small bites and not using serving spoon to consider it a “spoon.”  I have tried it for fun!)

8.  Have a huge container of carrots!  In between meals when I feel hungry I grab a bowl and chomp on it.  I would prefer dunking it in a ranch dressing, but it defeats the purpose so I have been using regular Italian dressing.  Not only this dressing will not stick to the carrot, like ranch dressing, but gives it the naughty goodness taste … I don’t feel like I am on a diet feel too!

9.  Avoid alcohol as much as possible.  Thankfully I am not a heavy drinker, and will drink glass of wine once a month or so.  So, this doesn’t really affect me too much.

10.  I have been using Tracy Anderson video to firm up my abs as well.  This is not for a real weight loss reason, but for swim season!  It’s fast approaching ladies and gentlemen!

I think that is about it!  I am eating and cooking whatever my family wants, which really helps out financially and psychologically, and I don’t feel like I am on a diet per say.  I have to tell you, honestly, that it was little bit tough in the beginning because I was hungry and had stomach aches in the beginning (I used to eat two bowls of spaghetti so my stomach has been stretched out to house this much amount of food), but now it is getting much better and easier!

Also, since I have kids I have to make sure that the word “DIET” is not used in the house (or kids don’t hear me say it) because I don’t want to negatively affect how my kids see themselves.  It’s really sad that girls and boy, today, are on diet or have eating disorders as young as 8 years old because they don’t look like the other kids or kids on TV … really sad, but true.

With that said … wish me luck!  I am planning on losing another 15 lbs (my ultimate goal)!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Here is a great printable coupon for you guys!

Print your SAVE $1.00 VELVEETA Dips

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Life most of you moms (and dads) out there my days are filled with activities … driving the kids to their extra curriculums, afternoon studies, parties, school activities, and etc.

During the week we usually don’t come home until past 6:00 so I need to be creative when it comes to dinners.

I am not a big fan of just opening things and heating it up … my kids had two frozen meals in their lives.  Few months ago, I made my kids soups out of can, Progresso Chicken Noodle soup, when they were sick.  My kids looked puzzled and said, “We are eating canned soup?”

Of course, they licked the bowl clean, but the shock and amusement I received from my kids makes me laugh to this day.

My kids are not that picky, but I almost always make them homemade chicken noodle (or rice) soup when they are sick … something about “momma” made it makes them feel better faster.  This is a tradition because my mom always made me fresh homemade soup when my siblings and I were sick … something so warm about it.

Anyhoot … yesterday was a busy-busy day/night.  I knew we were going to be home by 6:30 so I had to put something in the crock pot.

I have never made Orange Chicken in a crock pot before so this was an experiment … however, it came out really nice.

Since Gerbes and Dillons had drumsticks on sale for $0.99/lb I picked up a pack for ONLY $4.19 (13 drumsticks), and used 6 and rest in the freezer.  Buying cheaper cuts of meat, like drumsticks, are great ways to stretch your budget!

Here are the ingredients I used to make this budget friendly meal.
6 drumsticks ($0.32 each = $1.92)
1 can chicken stock  … $0.29 each

Total: $2.21

FREE INGREDIENTS or STAPLE INGREDIENTS:

1 onion
4 carrot sticks (cut into big chunks)
1/4 cabbage
2 cloves of garlic
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
1/2 tbl – 1 tbl grated ginger (use as much or little as you want)
1/2 tsp sesame oil
1 tbl mirin
2 tbl soy sauce (I use the low sodium ones)
5 tbl sugar
5 tbl white vinegar
1 zest of orange, and it’s juice

First, brown the drumsticks on the stove until all parts of meat are nicely browned (make sure you don’t cook it through … just searing the outside of the meat).  Remove from heat once this step has been accomplished.

Add onions, carrots, and crushed red pepper into the pan where you were searing the drumstick.  This step allows you to scrape up all the browned goodies on the bottom of the pan.  Add garlic and ginger at this point.

In a bowl add rest of the ingredients and mix well (except cabbage and chicken stock) … then add it to the pan … bring it to boil and cook for 10 minutes or so.

At this point it’s time to layer the crock pot!  Yeah!

1 – Boiling liquid mixture from the pan
2 – chicken drumsticks
3 – chicken stock until it covers the meat
4 – sliced or cubed cabbage

Cover and cook it low for 6-7 hours.

After the crock pot has been going for good 6-7 hours at a low-speed, remove the chicken (be careful because the meat will break apart) and put it on to a serving plate.

Transfer everything, that is left in the crock pot, into a pan and bring it to boil to thicken the sauce.

In order to thicken the sauce you can use arrow-root (natural thickener) or corn starch or flour.  I usually use flour because I always have it at home and it is expensive.

So … I take 2-3 tablespoon of flour and mix it with butter … or Roux.  This process eliminates the taste of “flour” in your sauce, but also gives the sauce the butter glaze look.

Add much or little as you want and mix well with the sauce.  NOTE: taste your sauce to adjust the seasoning!

Once you reach the consistency pour it over the chicken and serve it over rice!

Total dinner Cost?  $2.21!

Not only it’s really delicious and VERY healthy (because I am not frying my meat), but very CHEAP too!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Here are few more great coupons you can use now or save up in the future.

As you all know Dillons and Gerbes have 10/$10 sale this week’s sale on Brawny paper towels, but there isn’t any manufacturers coupons through Sunday papers.  I came across a great printable coupon you can use this week!  You can pick up  ONE (1) FREE roll of paper towel!  I have been told that even though it says “Available at Walmart” you don’t have to use this coupon there because the coupon does NOT say “redeem at Walmart ONLY.”

Print SAVE $0.55 Brawny off ONE (1) Big roll or Larger package

Print SAVE $1.00 Uncle Ben’s Whole Grain Brown Rice products

Print SAVE $0.50 Newman’s Own.  This is a keeper for Schnucks’ shoppers because it comes on sale for 2/$3.00 sale, and with this coupon you can pick up a jar of salsa for ONLY $0.50!  Also, this salsa is really delicious!

Happy printing!!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Nothing new when it comes to security tags on clothes or electronics or DVD/CD’s or expensive bottle of wine/liquor, but food?

There are strong correlations between recession and shoplifting: i.e. stronger the recession the greater the number of shoplifting happens.

Of course, shoplifting occurs at any time, but there are higher fluctuation increase during recession.  For instance, Stephen doughty from MailOnline (in United Kingdom) stated in his “This recession is clearly beginning to grate …” article, “The most frequently-shoplifted commodity … is not jewellery or computer games, … but cheese.”

One of the main reason why people in UK are stealing cheese is because it is very expensive (if you ever bought quality brick of parmigiano-reggiano you know how expensive they are), but also it’s also very quick to sell.

According to Bruce Crumbley, in TIMEWORLD, shoplifting rose over 6% or loss of $115 billion for businesses.  These “…new shoplifters are … middle-class people who are walking off with French cheeses, quality meats, cosmetics, mobile phones, clothing and other goodies that they feel they need to maintain a quality of life they can no long afford.”

So … where am I going with this?  Well … today was my grocery shopping day so I went to Gerbes to pick up groceries for the week.  After bringing home my groceries I force myself to unpack everything and put it into specific locations; also, I had to individually pack my meat into different meal portions.

While I was ripping the plastic wrap off from my ground beef I noticed a little tag behind price tag.  I looked it for few minutes, but nothing was registering in my head … didn’t get enough sleep last night so I was little bit brain dead!

Anyhoot … it finally dinged on me!  It was a security tag!  I couldn’t believe my eyes!  I have been buying meat at Gerbes for over a year and never saw a security tag!  Honestly … it was cheap cut of meat … ground beef!

I understand if the stores are putting these little devices to expensive cuts of meats, but ground beef?  This should tell us all how tough the time is when the grocery stores are forced to track their merchandises.

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Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I will NOT pay full price … unless I NEED to have it (which happens … NEVER), and try to collect items that will last me for a long time (style wise …).

Let me clearify that a little bit.  I try my best to collect and classic style items so it’s always acceptable to wear.  Of course, I will purchase “fad” fashion items as well, but it is at a minimal cost!

In the past I would stock up on clothes because “it was cheap” at the clearance section, but I never wear them … so, why in the heck was I doing that?

I also have specific amount set in my head when purchasing clothes for myself or my family.  For instance, I will NOT spend more than $10.00 for a top or a bottom (shorts, skirt, jeans, pants, shirts, and etc) … generally speaking.  If it is over $0.99 or even $5.00 I will probably purchase them, but my decision will be based on where I buy them.  For example, I will go up to $1.50 if I am purchasing it at Walmart but will not spend $5.00 more  ($5.00 increase is at nice department stores).

With that said … since I shop after season is over, at the clearance rack, I can usually pick up many beautiful clothes at nice places like Dillards, Macy’s, Limited, and etc.

I was bord and decided to checkout Target Website and came across great clearance items.  Here’s what I found …

Mossimo Supply Co. Juniors Bootcut Jeans
Reg: $16.00
Clearance P: $5.60
You can NEVER have enough jeans in my opinion!

Mossimo Supply Co. Junors 3/4 Sleeve Cardigan
Reg: $19.99
Clearance P: $6.98
Cardigans are so versatile and MUST have in my closet … ALL YEAR LONG!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Alright ladies and gentlemen!  There are going to be great sales at Gerbes and Dillons!  Yeah!  Here is the weekly Ad preview for Dillons and Gerbes!   Sales starts tomorrow (Wednesday) so get your binders out and stock up your fridge!

Remember … selections and variations will differ based on geographical, regional, and individual stores … so, keep in mind if you don’t see something at your store!

With that said … there are great 10/$10 MIX AND MATCH Savings at Dillons and Gerbes!

10/$10 MIX OR MATCH Savings:

Dillons 1/2 gallon milk

Oscar Mayer Lunchables (3.5-4.5 oz)
$1/2 Lunchables Lunch Combinations w/fruit 01/22/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/18/2012)

Campbell’s Soup
$0.40/4 Campbell’s Great for Cooking Soup 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/15/2012)
$0.40/3 Campbell’s Condensed Soups, excluding Chicken Noodle, Tomato or Great for Cooking 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/15/2012)
$0.40/4 Campbell’s Condensed Chicken Noodle & Tomato Soup 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/15/2012)
$0.40/4 Campbell’s Condensed Soups, excluding Chicken Noodle, Tomato, or Great for Cooking 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/15/2012)
$0.40/3 Campbell’s Condensed Soups, excluding Chicken Noodle, Tomato, or Great for Cooking 12/04/2011 SS Insert (exp 02/01/2012)
$0.40/4 Campbell’s Chicken Noodle or Tomato Soup 12/04/2011 SS Insert (exp 02/01/2012)
$0.40/4 Campbell’s Condensed Soups, excluding Chicken Noodle, Tomato, or Great for Cooking 12/04/2011 SS Insert (exp 02/01/2012)
$0.40/4 Campbell’s Condensed Soups, excluding Chicken Noodle, Tomato, or Great for Cooking 12/04/2011 SS Insert (exp 02/01/2012)

Kroger Saltines

Dillons Buns

Manwich
$0.50/3 Manwich, 15.5 oz Kroger eCoupon
$1/2 Hunt’s Manwich, 15.5 oz AND Soft & Smooth Whole Grain White Wheat Buns 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/28/2012)

Pasta Roni or Rice A Roni

Simple Juice or Lemonade (12-13.5 oz)

Sparkling Ice Water (17 oz)

Kroger Frozen Vegetables

Barilla Pasta
$1/2 Barilla Whole Grain Pasta 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/04/2012)
$0.55/1 Barilla Whole Grain Pasta 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/04/2012)

Hunt’s Pasta Sauce

Banquet Brown ‘N Serve Sausage
$0.50/3 Banquet Brown ‘N Serve Kroger eCoupon

Banquet Entree
$1/6 Banquet Dinners Kroger eCoupon

Chobani Greek Yogurt

Hamburger, Chicken or Tuna Helper
$1/2 Hamburger Helper Home Cooked Skillet Meals 01/08/2012 GM Insert (exp 03/03/2012)
$0.80/4 Betty Crcoker Hamburger, Tuna or Chicken Helper Meals  – Coupons.com

Chef Boyardee Pasta
$1/6 Chef Boyardee Canned Pasta, 15 oz, Microwaveable Cups 7.5 oz or Bowls 15 oz Kroger eCoupon
$0.50/4 Chef Boyardee Pasta, any 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/05/2012)
$1/4 Chef Boyardee Microwave Pasta 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/05/2012)

Hunt’s Snack Pack Pudding or Gelatin
$0.50/3 Hunt’s Snack Pack Pudding, 4 pk Kroger eCoupon
$0.45/3 Snack Pack Pudding 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/05/2012)

7UP Soft Drinks (2 liter bottles)

Vitaminwater
$1/6 Vitaminwater, Smartwater, Powerade, or Fuze, No Multipacks Kroger eCoupon

Fuze or Gatorade or G2

Bush’s Best Beans

Angel Soft Bathroom Tissue (4 regular Rolls)
$0.50/1 Angel Soft Bath Tissue Double Roll, 4 ct 11/13/2011 RP Insert (exp 02/13/2012)
$0.45/1 Angel Soft Bath Tissue Double Roll, 4 ct 11/13/2011 RP Insert (exp 02/13/2012)

Brawny Paper Towles (1 roll)

Progresso Soup
$1/4 Progresso Can Soup 01/08/2012 GM Insert (exp 03/31/2012)
$1/4 Progresso Soups 12/11/2011 SS Insert (exp 02/04/2012)

Lay’s Stax

Amp or Rockstar Energy Drink

Del Monte Fruit Naturals or Superfruit

Kroger in-shell Peanuts

French or Italian Bread

Hormel Sliced Pepperoni or Salami
$1/2 Hormel Pepperoni 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/15/2012)

Farmland Pork Sausage

Arm & Hammer Ultramax or Essential Deodorant
$1/2 Arm & Hammer Antiperspirant or Deodorant Products 11/10/2011

Gum Crayola Toothbrush
$0.50/1 GUM Crayola Kids Toothbrush Upromise eCoupon

Handi-Foil Foilware

Butterfinger, Baby Ruth or Nestle Crunch Candy

MORE GREAT SALE ITEMS:

Nature Valley or Fiber One Bars 2/$5
$0.75/2 Nature Valley Granola Bars or Nut Clusters, 6 ct 01/08/2012 GM Insert (exp 03/03/2012)
$0.40/1 Fiber One Chewy Bars, 90 Calorie Chewy Bars or Brownies 01/08/2012 GM Insert (exp 03/03/2012)
$0.40/1 Fiber One 90 Calorie Chewy Bars or Brownies 01/08/2012 GM Insert (exp 03/03/2012)

General Mills Cereal 2/$5
$1/2 General Mills Cereals 12/11/2011 SS Insert (exp 01/21/2012)
$1/3 General Mills Cereal 01/08/2012 GM Insert (exp 02/18/2012)
*NOTE: check your smartsource and ecoupons as well … there are tons of coupons at coupons.com

Kroger Chunk Light Tuna (5 oz can) $0.59

Kroger Singles or Cheese $2.99

Little Debbie Snack Cakes (8-16.2 oz) 2/$3

Dunkin’ Donuts Coffee (11-12 oz) $8.99

Folgers Coffee (22.6-33.9 oz) $8.99
$1/1 Folgers Gourmet Selections or Millstone K-Cup Portion Packs 11/13/2011 RP Insert (exp 02/29/2012)
$1/1 Folgers Gourmet Selections Products 11/06/2011 RP Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$1/1 Folgers Gourmet Selections Product 11/06/2011 RP Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$1/1 Folgers Coffee, 3 oz+ 11/06/2011 RP Insert (exp 02/15/2012)

Club Crackers, Town House Crackers or Flatbread Crisps 2/$5

Hellmann’s Mayonnaise $3.79

Kroger Tomatoes (14.5 oz can) 5/$5

Wolf Brand Chili 4/$5
$1/4 Wolf Brand Chili or Dennison’s Chili, 15 oz Kroger eCoupon

Sara Lee Bread or Buns $2.29
$1/2 Hunt’s Manwich, 15.5 oz AND Soft & Smooth Whole Grain White Wheat Buns 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/28/2012)

International Delight Coffee Creamer $2.59
$0.75/1 International Delight, pint or quart 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/28/2012)

Tropicana Pure Premium Orange Juice or Trop50 Juice $2.99

Kroger Cottage Cheese, Sour Cream or Dip 4/$5

Kroger Ice Cream Sammies or Delux Ice Cream or Sherbet 2/$5

Stouffer’s Entree (57-96 oz) $10.99

Weight Watchers Frozen Treats $3.99
$3/10 Weight Watchers Smart Ones 08/07/2011 SS Insert (exp 04/30/2012)
$3/2 Weight Watchers Smart Ones 08/07/2011 SS Insert (exp 04/30/2012)
$1/2 Weight Watchers Smart Ones Satisfying Selections 08/07/2011 SS Insert (exp 04/30/2012)
$1/10 Weight Watchers Smart Ones 08/07/2011 SS Insert (exp 04/12/2012)

Red Baron Pizza 3/$10

Hot or Lean Pockets 5/$10

Lean Cuisine Entree 5/$10
$1/5 Lean Cuisine Varieties 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/31/2012)

Pepsi or 7UP Soft Drinks (12 pk-12 oz cans or Pepsi 6pk, 24 oz or 8 pk, 12 oz Bottles) 3/$13
$2/2 Pepsi Multi-pack Plastic Bottles or Mini Cans, 7.5 oz 8 pk 01/22/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/05/2012)
$2/2 Pepsi Products Plastic Bottle Multipacks, Minicans, 8pk 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 01/21/2012)

Coca-Cola Soft Drinks (2 liter bottles) 3/$4

Duracell or Energizer Batteries $3.99
$0.75/1 Duracell Coppertop, Ultra Power, Ultra Photo Lithium or Specialty Batteries 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$0.50/1 Duracell Coppertop, Ultra Power, Ultra Photo Lithium or Specialty Batteries 12/11/2011 RP Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$1/1 Duracell Coppertop, Ultra Power, Ultra Photo Lithium or Specialty Batteries 12/11/2011 RP Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$0.50/1 Energizer Batteries, Flashlight, or USB Wall or Car Charger 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/15/2012)
$0.75/1 Energizer Batteries, Flashlight, USB Wall or Car Charger 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/15/2012)
$1/1 Energizer Batteries, Flashlight, USB Wall or Car Charger 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/15/2012)

Colgate Total Advanced, Cavity Protection or Whitening Toothpaste $2.39
$1/1 Colgate Total Advanced Toothpaste, p.86 All You, Jan 2012 (exp 01/31/2012)
$1/1 Colgate Total Advanced Toothpaste, p.86 All You, Dec 2011 (exp 01/31/2012)
$1/1 Colgate Total Advaced, Optic White, Sensitive Pro-Relief 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/04/2012)
$1/1 Colgate Toothpaste, 4 oz + 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 01/21/2012)
$0.75/1 Colgate Toothpaste, 4 oz+ 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 01/21/2012)
$0.75/1 Colgate Adult or Kid’s Manual Toothbrush, excluding Plus and Extra Clean 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 01/21/2012)
$0.40/1 Colgate Adult or Kid’s Manual Toothbrush, excluding Plus and Extra Clean 12/04/2011 SS Insert (exp 12/24/2012)

Huggies Wipes or Huggies Diapers, Pull-Ups or GoodNites $9.49
$2/1 Huggies Pull-ups 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/11/2012)
$2/1 Huggies Little Movers Slip on Diapers 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/11/2012)
$0.50/1 Huggies Baby Wipes, 64 ct 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/11/2012) $1/1 Huggies Diapers 01/15/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/11/2012)
$3/1 Huggies Diapers Giant Pack, size 3, 4, 5 or 6. Kroger eCoupon
$3/1 Huggies Slip On Diapers Size, 3, 4 or 5. Kroger eCoupon

Land O’Frost Premium Lunch Meat $3.99

Bar-S Sliced Bacon $3.77

Farmland Jumbo Meat Franks 2/$3

Trident Gum $0.88
$1/3 Trident Gum, Single Packs 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/04/2012)

NATURAL FOODS (Available at select stores):

Kettle Brand Potato Chips 2/$6

Pure Protein Bar 10/$10
$1/2 Pure Protein Bars 01/08/2012 RP Insert (exp 02/18/2012)
$1/3 Pure Protein Bars Kroger eCoupon

Kashi GoLean Cereal $2.99

Simple Truth Organic Milk 2/$5

Bragg Organic Apple Cider Vinegar

Met-Rx Bar 3/$5
$2/2 Met-Rx BIG 100 or Protein Plus Bars Kroger eCoupon
$1/2 Met-RX Big 100 or Protein Plus Bars 01/08/2012 RP Insert (exp 02/29/2012)

Cascadian Farm Organic Granola Bars $2.99

Lifeway Kefir $3.49

PRODUCE SAVINGS:

California Mandarins (3 lbs bag) $3.99
Blueberries (6oz) 2/$
Avocados 10/$10
Red Seedless Grapes $1.88/lb
Apples 10 lbs/$10
Broccoli Crowns 4 lbs /$5
Dole or Fresh Selections Premium Classic 2/$4
Fresh Selections Mini Peeled Carrots 4/$5
Nature Sweet Cherry Tomatoes (10.5 oz) 2/$5
Del Monte Gold Pineapple $1.99
Texas Rio Star Grapfruit (5 lb bag) $2.99
Navel Oranges (6 lb bag) $4.99

HAPPY HUNTING EVERYONE!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Anyhoot … I haven’t seen Planters coupons in a very long time so this was a big surprise when Coupons.com had these little babies for couponers!  so make sure to print them out before it’s gone!

SAVE $1.50 when you buy TWO (2) PLANTERS Peanut Butter (any variety and size)

Happy printing!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Pantene (select varieties of shampoos, conditioners, mousse and stylers) $3.50
- $3/2 Pantene products 1/1/2012 PG (exp 1/31/2012)
As low as $0.50 each

Purina One Beyond Dog Food (3.5 lb) Bag
Original P: $6.49
Sale: $5.99
- $5.00/1 on one (1) package of Purina ONE brand beyOnd Dry Dog Food, any size, any variety 1/15/2012 SS (exp. 2/15/2012)
As low as $0.99

French’s Spicy Brown Mustard
Original P: $1.49
Sale: $1.00
$0.30 off FRENCH’S spicy Brown Mustard
As low as $0.70

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Save $0.75 OFF FRENCH’S Dijon Mustard

Save $0.30 Off FRENCH’S Spicy Brown Mustard

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Guest blogger Terra shares her easy cooking recipe on a snow day!

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 Snow Day!

I’m just going to put it out there.  I don’t like snow, AT ALL.  It’s cold.  It melts.  It gets in your shoes.   I could go on and on (like how my dad got my minivan stuck in the snow after the blizzard last year because he was trying to be gentle – I was pregnant with twins) but, I won’t.  I will tell you one thing that I do like as a result of the snow.  I don’t have to leave the house!  Being a stay at home mom to four children  ages 5, 3 and 11 month old twins, I pretty much try to make it a mission to not have to go out and about during the day unless I have one extra set of eyes and ears.  But when it snows, everyone on earth is telling me not to leave my house.  And you know what?  I’m just fine with that.

So what do I do on a day like today?  Hmm, normally I would be multitasking between dishes, laundry, vacuuming, fixing meals, etc.  But  not today!  Today is a special day.  It’s a snow day!  Today was meant for me to stay at home and do nothing.  Or at least that is what I am claiming. I mean, if my 5 yr old gets school cancelled (technically he didn’t because he only goes to preschool on MWF) and gets to stay home and do whatever, so should I.

You know another thing I like about snow days, not the snow remind you, just snow days, is that it is a perfect day for homemade soup.  My 5 yr old LOVES my vegetable and cheese soup.  I got it from a Kraft magazine and tweak it depending on my mood.  Here are the three basic ingredients:
-    28 oz chicken broth
-    1 bag of California medley frozen vegetables (mix of cauliflower, broccoli, carrots)
-    16 oz Velveeta cheese

Boil chicken broth and vegetables for 10-15 minutes (depending on how soft you want your vegetables).  Remove from stove eye and add cubed Velveeta cheese.

Now the next part is completely up to you.  I take a potato masher and mash the Velveeta with the vegetables.  The cheese melts a lot quicker and it breaks up the vegetables into more appeasing chunks for the kids.  In the past, I have also removed the vegetables from the broth, given them a couple of spins in the food processor while melting the cheese in the broth, then returned them to the soup.  (My husband didn’t like that so much, so I went back to the potato masher.)  If you prefer your veggies whole, put the pot back on the stove on low heat and stir while the cheese is melting.  Be sure to keep it on medium to low so you don’t burn the cheese.

When I want to get really wild and crazy, lol, I add any of the following: pasta, cubed ham, shredded chicken, sour cream, and/or bacon pieces.  Throw it in a bread bowl and bon appetite!  Or put it in a regular bowl and watch your kids lick it clean while asking for seconds or thirds.
Mmm, I’m getting hungry just thinking about it.  So enjoy your snow day!  And if you have to go out, be careful!

Terra

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Thanks, Terra

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Thankgoodness I received a call from Dillons Corporate Office, yesterday, regarding product recall information.

The automated phone message informed me that the manufacturers have recalled Excedrin, NO DOZ, Gas-X and Bufferin … all codes!

According to the Dillons and Gerbes website, including Dillons company, the ACTIVE RECALLS are for (below information are directly from their website):

January 13, 2012

- EXCEDRIN PM EXPRESS GETL, 80 CT
- EXCEDRIN PM EXPRESS GEL, 20 CT
- EXCEDRIN MIGRAINE CAPLETS, 50 CT
* note: CLICK HERE to read full information

January 9, 2012

- NO DOZ\MAXIMUM STRENGTH CAPLETS, 60 CT
- EXCEDRIN P.M. TABLETS, 125 CT, 100 CT
- EXCEDRIN PM CAPLETS, 50 CT
- EXCEDRIN TENSION HEADACHE CAPLETS, 100 CT
- EXCEDRIN TENSION HEADACHE EXPRSS GEL, 20 CT
- EXCEDRIN P.M. TABLETS, 24 CT
- EXCEDRIN MIGRAINE EXPRESS GEL CAPLETS, 20 CT
- EXCEDRIN MIGRAINE CAPLETS, 24+6 CT BONUS PACK, 24 CT
- EXCEDRIN MIGRAINE CAPLETS, 100 CT
- EXCEDRIN MIGRAINE CAPLETS, 200 CT
- GAS-X PREVENTION CAPLETS, 20 CT
- NO DOZ MAXIMUM STRENGTH CAPLETS, 36 CT
- EXCEDRIN TENSION HEADACHE CAPLETS, 125 CT, 100 CT
- EXCEDRIN MIGRAINE GEL TABLETS, 24 CT
- EXCEDRIN MIGRAINE CAPLETS, 125 CT BONUS PACK, 100 CT
- EXCEDRIN P.M. TABLETS, 100 CT
- NO DOZ MAXIMUM STRENGTH CAPLETS, 16 CT, (C) 1 EACH
- EXCEDRIN MIGRAINE GEL TABLETS, 100 CT
- EXCEDRIN MIGRAINE CAPLETS, 24 CT
* note: CLICK HERE to read full information

January 8, 2012

- EXCEDRIN BACK & BODY CAPLETS, 100 CT
- EXCEDRIN EXTRA STRENGTH CAPLETS, 100 CT
- EXCDRN EXTRA STRNGTH TABLETS, 200 CT
- BUFFERIN REGULAR STRENGTH TABLETS, 130 CT
- EXCEDRIN EXTRA STRENGTH TABLETS, 50 CT
- EXCEDRIN EXTRA STRENGTH EXPRESS GEL CAPS, 80 CT
- EXCEDRIN EXTRA STRENGTH TABLETS, 24 CT
- EXCEDRIN EXTRA STRENGTH CAPLETS, 50 CT
- EXCEDRIN EXTRA STRENGTH TABLETS, 100 CT, 30 CT
- EXCEDRIN EXTRA STRENGTH CAPLETS, 24+6 CT BONUS PACK, 24 CT
- EXCEDRIN BACK & BODY CAPLETS, 24 CT
- EXCEDRIN EXTRA STRENGTH CAPLETS, 24 CT
- EXCEDRIN EXTRA STRENGTH TABLETS, 8 CT, 8CT
- EXCEDRIN EXTRA STRENGTH CAPLETS, 125 CT, 100 CT
- EXCEDRIN EXTRA STRNGTH EXPRESS GEL CAPS, 20 CT
- EXCEDRIN EXTRA STRENGTH TABLETS, 24+6 CT BONUS PACK, 24 CT
- BUFFERIN LOW DOSE TABLETS, 130 CT
- EXCEDRIN EXTRA STRENGTH TABLETS BONUS PACK, 125 CT, 30 CT
* note: CLICK HERE to read full information

I picked up two boxes of Excedrin a month or so ago, but I don’t mess with recalls so I went to local Gerbes/Dillons store and received full refunds!

So … if you have any of these products listed above please go to your local retailer, where you bought it from, and receive your refunds!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Here are some great printable coupons available at coupons.com.  Make sure to click on the link below the pictures to print your valuable coupons!

Happy Printing!

Print SAVE $1.00 LISTERINE (does not include specific size)

Print SAVE $0.75 LAND O LAKES butter

Print SAVE $0.75 JENNIE-O TURKEY STORES

Print SAVE $0.75 Carmex Moisture Plus

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

This is Weekly Sale Preview for Dillons and Gerbes.  Just a reminder that the selections and variations will differ based on geographical and regional locations.

With that said … there are many great items on sale!

Happy Hunting!!!

P&G MIX AND MATCH ANY 4 Savings Event:
(Mix and Match any participating P&G products and SAVE $4.00)
* price reflects after meeting sales requirement

Bounty Paper Towels (6 Big or 8 Regular Tolls) $5.99
$0.25/1 Bounty Paper Towels 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Charmin Bathroom Tissue (12 or 16 Double Rolls) $5.99
$0.25/1 Charmin Bath Tissue 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Dawn Dish Detergent (10.1-24 oz) $1.99
$0.50/1 Dawn Hand Renewal Dish Detergent 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$0.25/1 Dawn Dish Liquid 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Crest Whitening or Pro-Health Toothpaste $1.99
$0.75/1 Crest Toothpaste, 4 oz+,excludes Cavity, Baking Soda and Tarter 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$0.50/1 Crest Toothpaste or Liquid Gel, 4 oz+ 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Cascade Action Pacs or Cascade Complete $5.99
$0.25/1 Cascade P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Tide Laundry Detergent (20-32 liquid or powder, 40 loads) $4.99
$0.50/1 Tide Stain Release 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$2/1 Tide Stain Release, 26-50 oz powder, duo pak, 15-34 ct, Liquid, 36-68 oz 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$2/1 Tide Detergent (excludes trial or travel sizes) 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Duracell Batteries $2.99
$0.75/1 Duracell Coppertop, Ultra Power, Ultra Photo Lithium or Specialty Batteries 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$0.50/1 Duracell Coppertop, Ultra Power, Ultra Photo Lithium or Specialty Batteries 12/11/2011 RP Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$2/1 Duracell Rechargeable Batteries or Charger, Hearing Aid Batteries, 6 pk 12/11/2011 RP Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$1/1 Duracell Coppertop, Ultra Power, Ultra Photo Lithium or Specialty Batteries 12/11/2011 RP Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Bounce Fabric Softener or Down Fabric Softener $3.99
$1.50/1 Bounce Dryer Bar
$0.50/1 Bounce 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$1.50/2 Downy or Bounce Products 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Puffs Facial Tissue (3-4 pks, 224-372 ct) $4.49
$0.25/3 Puffs Facial Tissue 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Iams Dog Food (15.5-17.5 lb Bag) $16.99

Iams Cat Food (6.8 lb Bag) $10.99

Febreze Air Effects or Set & Fresh $1.49
$1/1 Febreze Laundry Odor Eliminator, p.146 All You, Nov 2011 (exp 06/30/2012)
$1/1 Febreze Laundry Odor Eliminator, p.140 All You, Oct 2011 (exp 06/30/2012)     
$1/1 Febreze Laundry Odor Eliminator, p.160 All You, Sept 2011 (exp 06/30/2012)  

Always Infinity or Tampax Pearl $6.99
$0.50/1 Always Pantiliners, 30 ct 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$1/1 Always Pads 01/01/0202 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$2/1 Always Infinity, 14 ct+ 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Pampers Diapers or EAsy-Ups Training Pants $23.99
$3/2 Pampers Diapers 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$1/2 Pampers Diapers Bags, or $1/1 Diapers Box 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Old Spice or Secret Deodorant $0.99
$1/2 Old Spice Products, 1.7 oz+ 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Olay Soap or Body Wash $4.99
$2/1 Olay Bar, Body Wash, or In Shower Body Lotion wyb Secret 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$1/1 Olay Bar, Body Wash, In-Shower Body Lotion or hand & Body Lotion WYB Secret Products 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$1/1 Olay Bar, Body Wash, In-Shower Body Lotion or hand & Body Lotion 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Aussie Shampoo, conditioner or Styler $1.99
$1/1 Herbal Essences or Aussie Products 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Herbal Essences Shampoo or Conditioner $1.99
$1/1 Herbal Essences or Aussie Products 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Old Spice or Gillette Body Wash $2.49
$2/1 Old Spice Bodywash or Body Spray 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)
$1/1 Gillette Bodywash 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Pampers Wipes $4.99
$0.50/1 Pampers Wipes, 60 ct+ Kroger eCoupon

HALF-OFF SALE or 50% off sale: (this may or may not be it is part of Dillons and Gerbes sale)
* Note: this kind of specials deals are little bit tricky; so just want to let you guys know that this may or may not be part of the deal or selections might differ
* Note: shelf tag reflects Savings Select Varieties

Ruffles potato Chips

American Beauty Pasta

Classico Pasta Sauce

Sargento Cheese
$0.55/1 Sargento Natural Cheese Snack 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/12/2012)
$0.40/1 Sargento Natural Cheese Snack 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/12/2012)
$0.75/2 Sargento Natural Cheese Snacks 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/26/2012)
$0.50/1 Sargento Natural Cheese Snack 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/12/2012)

Libby’s Vegetables (canned)
$1/4 Libby’s Canned Vegetables 11/13/2011 RP Insert (exp 03/31/2012)
$1/2 Libby’s Fruit Products 11/13/2011 RP Insert (exp 03/31/2012)

Hormel Compleats or Compleats Kids

Premium Saltines

Birds Eye Voila Skillet Meal

Bush’s Best beans

Ken’s Salad Dressing
B2G1 Ken’s Dressing, 9 oz 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/28/2012)
$1/2 Ken’s Dressing, 16 oz 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/28/2012)
$1/1 Ken’s Dressing, 16 oz 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/28/2012)

PictSweet Frozen Vegetables

Pop Secret Microwave Popcorn

Milk-Bone Dog Biscuits

Pepperidge Farm Garlic Toast

Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa Mix
$0.50/2 Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa, 8–10 ct Kroger eCoupon

Clorox Disinfecting Wipes

Purex Laundry Detergent

Kroger Vitamins or Supplements

Comforts Baby Care

Kroger Toothbrush or Floss or Mouthwash

Gladware Food Storage Container

Household Cleaning Tools or Gloves

Candles

Libman Broom or Mop

FROZEN:

Kroger Vegetables (9-12 oz) 10/$10

Hot or Lean Pockets 5/$10

Kroger Garlic Toast or Bread STicks 3/$5

Lean Cuisine entrée (6-11.5 oz) 5/$10

Kroger Self-Rising or Thin Crust Pizza 3/$10

Red Baron Pizza 3/$10

Tyson Chicken or Any’Tizers $6.99
$0.55/1 Tyson Grilled & Ready Refrigerated Products 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 04/08/2012)
$1/1 Tyson Grilled & Ready Frozen Products 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 04/08/2012)
$1/1 Tyson Grilled & Ready frozen chicken breast chunks 11/06/2011 SS Insert (exp 02/05/2012)$0.55/1 Tyson Crumbles or Diced Product 11/06/2011 SS Insert (exp 01/30/2012) $1/1 Tyson Any’tizers Wings 10/16/2011 SS Insert (exp 01/16/2012)

Banquet Fruit Pie (7 oz) $0.88

DIARY & REFRIGERATED:

Kroger Singles (24 ct) or Kroger Cheese (12-16 oz) $2.99

Yoplait Yogurt (4 fl oz) 10/$6
$0.40/6 Yoplait Yogurt Cups 01/08/2012 GM Insert (exp 03/03/2012)
$0.50/8 Yoplait Yogurt Cups

Dillons Large Eggs (12 ct) $1.66

Kroger Cottage Cheese or Sour Cream $1.99

Fleischmann’s or Parkay Margarine 4/$5
$0.25/1 Parkay, 8-16 oz Sticks, Sleeves or Tubs Kroger eCoupon

DRINKS:

Coca-Cola Soft Drinks (24 pk, 12 oz cans) – BUY 2, SAVE $1 – $5.49 each
$1/4 Coca Cola Products (2) wyb 2 Pringles Super Stax Cans 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Kroger Coffee (26-34.5 oz) $7.49

Starbucks coffee (11-12 oz) $7.99
$3/2 Starbucks Coffee, 11, 12 or 20 oz 12/04/2011 SS Insert (exp 01/14/2012)
$1/1 Starbucks Via Ready Brew, excludes 3 pk 12/04/2011 SS Insert (exp 01/14/2012)
$1/1 Starbucks Coffee, 11, 12, or 20 oz 12/04/2011 SS Insert (exp 01/14/2012)$1.50/1 Starbucks K-Cup Packs (10 or 16 ct) 11/20/2011 SS Insert (exp 02/29/2012)

Tropicana Pure Premium Orange Juice or Trop50 Juice (59 oz) $2.99

Coca-Cola or 7UP Soft Drinks (12-pk-24 oz cans, 8pk-12 oz, or 6-pk-24oz bottles) 3/$13
$1/4 Coca Cola Products (2) wyb 2 Pringles Super Stax Cans 01/01/2012 P&G Insert (exp 01/31/2012)

Pepsi Soft Drinks (2 liters) 4/$5

BREAKFAST:

Bear River Valley Cereal 10/$10

CANDY:

M&M’s Candy (9.9-12.6 oz bag) $2.69

Snickers or 3 Musketeers Miniatures Valentines Candy (9-11.5 oz bag) $3.49

Dove Chocolate Valentine Candy (7.94-9.5 oz) 2/$6

SPICES AND OILS:

Wesson Vegetable or Best Blend Oil $3.69
$0.50/1 Wesson Oil, 48 oz Kroger eCoupon

CANS:

Campbell’s Soup 10/$10
$0.40/3 Campbell’s Condensed Soups, excluding Chicken Noodle, Tomato or Great for Cooking 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/15/2012)
$0.40/4 Campbell’s Condensed Chicken Noodle & Tomato Soup 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/15/2012)
$0.40/4 Campbell’s Condensed Soups, excluding Chicken Noodle, Tomato, or Great for Cooking 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 03/15/2012)
$0.40/3 Campbell’s Condensed Soups, excluding Chicken Noodle, Tomato, or Great for Cooking 12/04/2011 SS Insert (exp 02/01/2012)
$0.40/4 Campbell’s Chicken Noodle or Tomato Soup 12/04/2011 SS Insert (exp 02/01/2012)
$0.40/4 Campbell’s Condensed Soups, excluding Chicken Noodle, Tomato, or Great for Cooking 12/04/2011 SS Insert (exp 02/01/2012)
$0.40/4 Campbell’s Condensed Soups, excluding Chicken Noodle, Tomato, or Great for Cooking 12/04/2011 SS Insert (exp 02/01/2012)
$0.25/4 Campbell’s Condensed Great for Cooking Soups 11/06/2011 SS Insert (exp 01/15/2012)

Chef Boyardee Pasta (7.5 oz cup or 14.5-15 oz can) 10/$10
$0.50/4 Chef Boyardee Pasta, any 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/05/2012)
$1/4 Chef Boyardee Microwave Pasta 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/05/2012)

Hunt’s Snack Pack Pudding or Gelatin 10/$10
$0.50/3 Hunt’s Snack Pack Pudding, 4 pk Kroger eCoupon

Hunt’s Pasta Sauce or Manwich 10/$10
$0.50/3 Hunt’s Pasta Sauce, 24–26.5 oz Kroger eCoupon
$1/2 Hunt’s Manwich, 15.5 oz AND Soft & Smooth Whole Grain White Wheat Buns 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/28/2012)

Wolf Brand Chili 4/$5
$1/4 Wolf Brand Chili or Dennison’s Chili, 15 oz Kroger eCoupon

Hunt’s Tomatoes or Rotel Tomatoes 10/$10

Rosarita Refried Beans 10/$10
$0.25/1 Rosarita Refried Beans, 16 oz Kroger eCoupon

HEALTH AND BEAUTY:  

Speed Stick or Lady Speed Stick Deodorant $0.88
$1/1 Speed stick or lady Speed stick 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 01/21/2012)

Softsoap Liquid Hand Soap $0.88

Emergen-C (30 ct) $7.99

NATURAL FOODS:  

Silk PureAlmond or PureCoconut (1/2 gallon) $2.99
$0.75/1 Silk Soy Milk, 1qt or Multi-pack 01/08/2012 SS Insert (exp 02/08/2012)

LaraBar 10/$10

Popchips (3 oz) 2/$4

BAKERY/BREAD AND ROLLS:

Sara Lee Bread $1.99

PRODUCE:

Kroger Value Russet Potatoes (10 lb bag) $2.99

Avocados or Red Bell Peppers 10/$10

Fresh Selections Mini Pooled Carrots 4/$5

Del Monte Fruit Naturals 10/$10

Blueberries 2/$5

Cuties Clementines (3 lb bag) $3.99

Red Cherries $3.99/lb

Private Selection Organic Salad $2.99

MEATS & SEAFOOD:  

T-Bone Steak $5.99/lb

Ribeye Steak $5.99/lb

Boneless Pork Loin Chops $2.99/lb

Ground Round (sold in 3 lb rolls for $8.07) $2.69/lb

Kroger Value Chicken Drumsticks or Thighs $0.99/lb

Kroger Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Tenders (2-4 lb bag) $6.99

Hormel Pork Chops (2-4 lb bag) $6.99

Atlantic Salmon Fillets $6.99/lb

Kroger Meals Made Simple Real Bacon Bits 3/$5

Pork Butt Roast (Bone-in, sold whole in bag) $1.99/lb

Pork Shoulder Butt Steaks or Country Style Ribs (Bone-in, Super Value Pack) $2.49/lb

Pork Loin Back Ribs $3.49/lb

Boneless Charcoal Steak (Beef Chuck) $3.49/lb

Kroger Pork Sausage (16 oz roll) $2.19

Jumbo White (21-25 ct) shrimp $5.99/lb

Kroger Bacon (16 oz) 2/$7

Kroger Value Swai Fillets $2.78/lb

Kroger Breaded Shrimp – B1G1 FREE

Oscar Mayer Bologna, Lunchables or Lunch Meat (6-7 oz) 2/$4

Banquet Brown ‘N Serve Sausage or Banquet Entree 10/$10
$0.50/3 Banquet Brown ‘N Serve Kroger eCoupon

Johnsonville Brats or Italian Sausage $3.98
$1/1 Johnsonville Pork or Chicken Sausage 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 04/01/2012)
$1.50/1 Johnsonville Chicken Sausage 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 04/01/2012)
$1/1 Johnsonville Chicken Sausage 01/01/2012 SS Insert (exp 04/01/2012)
$1.50/1 Johnsonville Chicken Sausage 11/06/2011 SS Insert (exp 01/29/2012)
$1/1 Johnsonville Chicken Sausage 11/06/2011 SS Insert (exp 01/29/2012)

Johnsonville Smoked Brats $2.88

Ball Park Beef Franks $3.49

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

Did you guys know that Gerbes now offer PRINT-AT-HOME COUPONS?

I always go to Gerbes website to load my digital coupons, but now Gerbes have partnered with Smartsource to offer printable coupons for their customers.

I went couple of days ago to print some coupons out, and it worked beautifully; however, these printable coupons didn’t have any expiration dates on them … not one printed coupons had them.

These printable coupons look just like the coupons you can printout at Smartsource website, except the expiration date.  On the expiration date place it just printed out “00/00/0000″

I am just assuming that it will work at Dillons and Gerbes (maybe these entities left the expiration date out on purpose), but don’t think other stores will take them because of the expiration date.

Haven’t tried to print other coupons yet, but when appropriate products come on sale and have to use my “printed coupons through Gerbes” I can use them without any problem.

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

I have been debating if I should go to Schnucks to take advantage of their weekly 10/$10 sales.

Usually, I wouldn’t hesitate to take advantage of these great sale items because I would utilize the price-match guarantee policy at Patricia’s.  However, since Patricia’s grocery store recently changed their coupon policies, AGAIN, to … AD PRICE MATCH GUARANTEE, from other stores, IF SAME ITEM(S) IS ON THEIR WEEKLY AD.

What does that mean?  Let me give you an example.  Schnucks has sale on StarKist tuna packs for $1.00 each.  In the past, Patricia’s grocery store would price match it to $1.00 and get as many as you would want.  However, because consumers, extreme couponers, started to empty out the shelves (and taking 20-30 products at a time) the store limited to six (6) item price match.

OK … back to my point … NOW, since Patricia’s ad does NOT have StarKist on their weekly sale ad the store will NOT price match it for you.  Moreover, hypothetically, if StarKist was on sale for $1.25 on their weekly sale ad and Schnucks had them for only $1.00 a piece then Patricia’s will price match to $1.00 a piece rather than their ad price.

So … there is my dilemma now.  First and foremost, picking $1.00 item sales at Patricia’s is out the window because of their new price-match policy; but I dread going to Schnucks.

Not only Schnucks limit 3-like coupons to double to $1.00 (anything over 3 coupons will not be doubled and taken at its face value), but they will not allow you to make multiple transactions.  You would literally have to come back the next day to take advantage of their sales and abide by their coupon policy.

I honestly wouldn’t go back day after day … it’s ridiculous!  I like couponing, but not to a point where I will spend more money on gas to save few bucks!  Also … I personally feel that Schnucks employees are not as friendly as they claim to be.

I have no problem shopping at other stores because I am a nice persona and always abide by the store’s policies; but Schnucks employees always made me feel like a criminal (Actually, I know few people who feels the same way and have been treated negatively) because they inspect coupons like you are trying to rip them off!  Another story … another time!

Anyhoot … so instead of making myself uncomfortable and don’t want to endorse stores who have been treated me awfully I decided to spend extra money at Gerbes and purchase my tuna from them.

Even though the tuna packets were $0.25 higher than what Schnucks were advertising I rather spend little bit more to make myself uncomfortably!

So with that said … I am all about saving money, but I will not jeopardize my dignity and/or comfort level.  I rather do business with people who appreciate me as a person and a customer … so … I am boycotting Schnucks now!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/

OK … this is for personal uses … if you need them here is a great deal on K-Y Jelly product at Walmart.

Walmart has the Original K-Y Brand Jelly Personal Lubricant (2 oz) for ONLY $2.84.  With today’s (and last week’s) Sunday’s coupon for $3 off on any K-Y Jelly product and/or a printable $3.00 off print coupon you can pick them up for FREE or overage of $0.16 per item.

With that said … here are Alternative ways to use K-Y Jelly … G rated ways:

1.  Donate to your local animal shelters.  Why?  Since these places heavily depend on donations to run these facilities the personnels use KY jelly, on animals, when they are taking temperatures and etc.

2.  Use dab of this lubricant to remove rings on your finger.

3.  Use dab on sticky price tags … like a Goo-Gone product.

4.  Athletes, such as runners and cyclists, use them to prevent chafing.

5.  Some use for cuticle remover.

6.  Use as eye-makeup remover; especially if you use water-proof eyeliners and masceras.

7.  You can mix high-impact color eyeshadows (like light pink or purple) to KY jelly to create your own lip gloss.  I used to use Vaseline, discovered it gets little too sticky, but works really well with KY.

8.  Heard you can use KY to shine your patent leather shoes, but I haven’t tried it.

Isn’t it amazing how many different ways you can use KY jelly?  Creativity is just amazing!

Self help : http://www.justestuff.com/ and Coupons : http://www.justestuff.com/coupons/