This post has been moved to my new site: Dash of Evans

Don't Miss Any Coupons or Deals: Discounted Newspapers!

 Disclaimer: Some links included are affiliate links. These help keep the website running!

Do you have a subscription to your local newspaper? It's such a nice treat to open the door to the Sunday paper--no need to run out or even get dressed! 

Did you know that Thursday papers are just as important for weekend ads?  Many times there are store coupons and weekend sales flyers! I also like to thumb through the regular portions of the newspaper for local coupons as well.

If you have family around the country, this makes a great gift for holidays or birthdays! They have a huge variety, you can search by state or zip code!

At Discounted Newspapers, you can save up to 80% on local papers!  Never miss out on a sale or coupon again!

Grocery Prices Rising: How to Save Your Budget!

Guys, I'm kinda freaking out here.  The price of food is getting ridiculous.  Or maybe it's the lack of sales and good coupons.   I swear there is an extreme couponing shadow at my local Meijer store that clears the shelf minutes before I get there.  Save some for everyone else, shadow!

I know that everyone around the country is feeling their grocery budget stretch a bit.  There have been various reasons: rise in gas prices, bad growing seasons, etc etc.  No matter what it may be, it's time to take action!

Clip more Coupons
This is kind of obvious, but it's worth your time to spend ~20 minutes a week searching for coupons online.  This can be by clipping coupons on websites, reading deal blogs in your area, using digital coupons...whatever you chose.  I also recommend buying Sunday papers!  Depending on the week, we will get 2-5 papers.  It's worth the investment!  With extra coupons, you can stock up on a deal. At Discounted Newspapers, you can get up to 80% off! I love getting the Sunday and Thursday papers delivered--I never miss out on any deals!

Shop early on Fridays.
I'm not a huge fan of shopping on weekends, because it's CRAZY, but early Fridays seem to work well for us.  Why? Usually any weekend sales start on Friday, so you'll get bonus savings.  Plus, the shelves will be stocked up for the weekend shoppers.  I tend to find the most selection and markdown meats, also.  Since you have the whole week to research any deals, you can make sure you have yourself organized to hit up whatever you want to buy.  It's easier to stick to a list if you have your coupons all together!

Farmer's Market Tips
As much as I love to buy local, sometimes farmer's markets can be a strain on the budget.  I have a few tips to help stretch your buck:

• Shop early or at the very end of the day.  
• In the morning, it will be less crowded and the selection will be great.  Since it's less crowded, farmers will be more available to talk to or bargain with. 
• By the end of the market day, farmers will start to load up their trucks.  Ask if there are any gently bruised produce that you can score cheaply.  Last year I got tomatoes for canning super cheap this way! Don't be afraid to ask!
• Browse first, buy last.
• Walk around and take note of prices.  This helps you get the lowest possible prices!

•   Check out the info booth.
• You never know what you might find there!  We have a punch card to get free reusable bags, sometimes they have contests or coupons to use at vendors. It's worth a walk by!

Cut back on meat.
Think about adding different proteins to your diet.  I like to stretch ground turkey by adding other proteins to bulk it up.  Our tacos or enchiladas frequently have black beans added.  Canned or dry beans are MUCH cheaper than meat, you just have to be creative.  That's what Pinterest is for! Lentils are super nutritious fillers too!  If you happen to see a great deal on meat, freeze extras!  This week we have a Buy 1, Get 1 Free deal on pork at Family Fare.  I will get roasts for carnitas or pulled pork and chops for easy grilled meals.


Shop at Aldi first.
I'm pretty Aldi obsessed.  I love how they are growing and changing each year!  Their new organic and natural line is so tasty!  I love Aldi for their prices AND best part: you don't need any pesky coupons!   I do realize you can't get everything there, so I shop Aldi first...then hit up other stores.

New to Aldi? Check out my old post: Aldi for Beginners

What are you doing to help save with the rising prices? Any tips for us?!

Get up to 80% off local newspapers! A great gift idea too!

Love Music? Check out Score Big for HUGE Ticket Savings!

When I was in college, I was fortunate to be in an area with great music.  Every where you turned in Madison, there would be a show I had to catch.  Most of them were free, or super cheap!  One day crossing the street on my way to class, I passed Nikka Costa with her crazy hair.  I got my cheesy signature pose from Tim in Ok Go.  Selling merch, I met Matt Nathanson and Howie Day.  During a small show at the union, I realized I was standing next to James Iha from Smashing Pumpkins.  I miss those days!

Now that I'm old, concerts are a real treat.  Since tickets are so expensive, I have to REALLY like an artist to even want to consider going to a crowded show. 

Did you know that around 40% of concert tickets go unsold each year?  In this economy, I'm really not too surprised!  Score Big is a great new website that offers tickets at a reduced rate--up to 60% off!  Almost like a Priceline for event tickets!

How does it work?

You can search by location for selected events.  It's not just concerts, you can get theater and pro sports tickets too!  Unfortunately, there isn't much in the Grand Rapids area, but I don't mind making a trip to Chicago or Detroit for a fun show!

Not every concert in the area will be available, just ones they have tickets for.  I check about once a week to see what's new.

Before you get to pricing, you select what seating area you would like.  Sometimes only one area will be available and other events the whole stadium will have options.  No matter what area you pick, seats will always be together, which I love!  You just won't be able to pick exact seats.

There are two options for pricing: pay the fixed price, or make an offer.  I always try making offers, you never know how low the price can go!

It's definitely worth checking out!  I have found they are adding more and more each week.  Ricky is keeping tabs on some Bears tickets for fall.

What's the best concert you've ever been to?

Disclosure: I received a gift code as compensation for this review.  All opinions are my own!

Grocery Shopping at Target Saves TONS of Money!

My husband thinks I have a major problem: I'm addicted to Target.  I have been for years now...I even worked there in high school.  I feel you are either a Target or Walmart person.  Just like a Coke or Pepsi fan.  I can spot a Target red clearance sticker from a mile away!

In my area, we don't have many options for grocery shopping.  Not even Trader Joe's (tear!) ...just Meijer and Family Fare.  While I can find some deals at those stores, I still find myself spending more than I would like.  A few months ago, once I started using Target Cartwheel, I realized how much cheaper it is to stock up my pantry at Target.  I'm totally kicking myself for not figuring this out sooner!

Here's why!  They have great sale prices, sometimes even lower normal prices to begin with, plus you can triple up coupons.  By using printable Target coupons, the Cartwheel and manufacturer coupons, you're saving TONS of money!

Some tips:

• Read Totally Target before you head out.  This blog is a GREAT tool for finding out what's on sale, what deals are to be found and what coupons you should print.
• Shop Target before the grocery store.  We try to do large monthly grocery trips, supplementing weekly for produce and milk.  On our big trip days, we have a routine: Aldi first, Target and Meijer last.  It's an order of cheapest to most expensive, so by the time we make it to Meijer we just have a few things left on our list.  Costco is also thrown in if it's a month that we need items from there.  Since I try to set a price point for items, I know if it's a good deal at Target or if I should wait for another store.  
• Focus on pantry and dairy. Meat deals can be hit or miss, but pantry items are quite often great prices.  I tend to buy fruit snacks, crackers, canned tomatoes and condiments.  Another deal: dairy.  Yogurt, cheese and almond milk have great prices!  When in the meat section, look for markdown beef or chicken and sales on items like lunchmeat.
• Get your coupons ready ahead of time! As much as I love Cartwheel, it can be time consuming while shopping.  If you have the rest of your coupons organized ahead of time, you'll make your trip much faster.  Don't forget to check your Target mobile coupons too!  I really would love to have Target combine mobile coupons and Cartwheel somehow. 

Do you grocery shop at Target?  Any tips?

Love shopping SecondHand? Check out Twice!

Check it out & get $10 credit!

I will admit, I am not the best thrift store shopper. Back in high school I loved to get old "vintage" tees or purses...but that's about it.

A few weeks ago I ventured out to our local Goodwill and it was not my cup of tea.  Some items were more than they would have been in the store!  There were items with tags from Target that I got for the girls last summer WAY cheaper than the Goodwill prices.

I feel like they are hit or miss in this area.  I know some people find amazing deals...I'm always jealous!

On a random search, I came across this site Twice one day and I really liked it.  As with any secondhand site, it can be hit or miss but I love the dressier clothes.  I don't think I would buy the casual clothes, since those are a bit pricier...I'm not one who cares much about labels.  

We had two weddings in a row this summer and I couldn't find anything I liked at the mall.  I live in yoga pants rarely wear dresses, so I'm not going to spend a ton of money for something that is going to collect dust in my closet. Plus, while I'm losing weight, I don't want to waste money on something that I can't use for a few years.

Twice focuses on designer clothes and you can even get a free bag sent so you can sell your own gently used clothes.  They are very particular with their brands, I didn't have anything I could sell!  I am happy they are adding new accepted brands frequently, including Gap and J Crew.

Not only is this a great site to browse for wedding attire (I found an awesome $200 dress for $23!), Twice is a great place to check out if you have a new job or conference coming up.  

They have fast shipping and just for signing up, you get $10 off! They frequently send out 15% off coupons you can also use! 

Here's the dress I got for wedding season.  I loved it so much!

Check it out and let me know what you find!!  I'm already eyeballing a few sweaters and pants for the fall now that I'm down another size (holllla!).  Remember, items are first come, first serve so buy quickly when you see something you love!

Disclaimer: Some of the links included in this post are referral links, yet all thoughts and opinions are my own.  I was not paid to write this post, I just love this website so dang much!

{Guest Post} Decorating on the Cheap: Bathroom Re-Vamp

Today we have a guest post from Kate!  I love her decorating ideas and the green color she chose is great!  If you are interested in guest posting, send me an email or FB message! 

I love decorating my home.  O.K, I may be borderline obsessed with it.  But for me, it’s not about putting up appearances for others.  It’s about making our house comfortable, fun, and pleasing for our family.  We love home.  The problem is, we don’t exactly have piles of extra money lying around (if you do, hooray for you!)  So I have had to figure out ways to do this on the cheap.  For this article, I will show you how I redecorated my bathroom for around $100.

This bathroom had some very nice things going on to start with.  It just lacked a little oomph.  

I found some fabric that I LOVED at Hobby Lobby, and that served as my inspiration piece (always a good way to start when re-doing a room).  I used a 40% off coupon (these are always available in the Sunday paper or can be printed online), so the fabric (which I was using for a new window treatment) was less than $5.  

I then picked up a make-your-own window shade kit at Meijer for about $6.  This was my first experience with making a shade, and it was pretty easy and turned out well.  

Next I picked out a wall color that I pulled from the colors in the fabric.  I decided the bright green would be nice with the white wainscot.  Do NOT skimp on your paint—it’s not worth it!  My personal favorite is the Behr Ultra (paint and primer in one).  It covers SO well!  It’s expensive, but it’s worth it.  My gallon of paint cost around $30.

Next up—something to go on the walls.  I found a pair of ugly brass mirrors for $2 each at goodwill and painted them in a bright cherry red.  

I then found a small square mirror (also at a thrift store) for $1 and painted it yellow.  I also found some cute simple bird and tree silhouettes for 50 cents each (also thrift).  Finally, I found a super cute soap dish clearances out at Bed Bath & Beyond for $4 and I glued it in a frame I already had.  Tah-dah, it’s art!

For the mirror, I found a framed picture at Hobby Lobby and replaced the picture with a mirror.  The frame was about $10 and the mirror cost about $5.  

I already had the storage cabinet, but found some cute knobs at Hobby Lobby to dress it up for $2 each.  I purchased a Closetmaid storage shelf for around $20 and found some cute fabric storage bins for around $5 each.  This is a great way to add color and hide the things nobody needs to see!

Breakdown:

Window treatment- $11

Paint- $30

Wall décor- $10

Mirror- $15

Knobs- $4

Storage shelves- $20

Fabric bins- $15

So there you have it—a room makeover for around $100!  Happy decorating!

How to use Ebates

Start saving money today! Sign up here!

I like to shop, but during the holidays I cannot stand the crowds.  Also, what's up with the grouchy people?  It's like all of the crazies come out of the woodwork to get gifts.  Not a fan at all!  It's the holiday season and I don't need strangers making me crabby with their attitudes!

I like to do my shopping from my couch.  I can find all of the deals and be comfy in my sweats!  Actually, I think I save money shopping online because I can find the best price and coupons for items...I don't have to wait for sales in the stores!

When I decide which website I'm shopping on, I head right over to Ebates.  There I can find coupon codes and get a percentage back from ordering.  If you have a better coupon code from your email or a text, you are not obligated to use ones you find on the Ebates website, which is nice. 

On the weekends, they tend to have double cash back days.  They are always adding new online stores, as well.  Recently, they have joined forces with Amazon and Groupon. 


Confused on how it works?  I get a lot of questions about it.  While on Ebates, you click on "shop now" and you are sent to the actual website you want.  After ordering, your percentage back will be applied to your account.  The only unfortunate part is that you only get your cash back 4 times a year.  I love after the holiday season though, because I get my money applied to my account in the winter when all of the good sales are going on!

If you are a new member, you get a free $10 gift card after you spend $25 or more on an order.  It's a nice little bonus!

How is your holiday shopping going?  What online shopping tips do you live by?

Disclaimer:  I was not paid for this post, I just love Ebates and wanted to share a money saving tip.  The links are referral links. 

Holiday shopping at Aldi

I'm in the Aldi ad again this week!  I wish I could change my last name!

I am starting to organize my baking for the holidays.  Ricky likes to make 5-8 different types of cookies, but he doesn't realize that WE are the ones who end up eating them all.  No bueno!  I am going to hold off for a few weeks so I don't gain 15 lbs this holiday season!  I cannot say no to a good sugar cookie!

Have you considered Aldi for your holiday shopping?  They have unbeatable prices on baking essentials, especially sugar, flour and spices.  I found a clearance section last week with spices for $1.25: ginger, cream of tartar and nutmeg.  Have you seen prices at other stores for those?  Over $4!

Other great stock-up items for the holidays:

• Eggs, butter and milk
• Sprinkles, frosting and vanilla
• Cereals: rice crispy, chex and corn flakes 
• Seasonal goodies: Gingerbread waffle mix is AWESOME, also the mint hot cocoa

This time of year they also have a toy section and other inexpensive gifts.  They have name brand and popular items at great prices.  Last year we found some great Fisher Price toys for the twins.  This year I am considering some Disney princess dolls I saw.

I know other grocery stores have sales, but really consider Aldi for a one stop shop for holiday baking and cooking.  In 15 minutes you can get everything you need and be on your way!  Time is precious this time of year.

While you're there, get some tasty ground coffee...you're gonna need it!

How is your holiday baking going so far?  I'm procrastinating, as usual!

 

How to save money without double coupons: step 3

The past two days I have been giving tips as to how to save money when you can't have double coupons.  Today is my last batch of advice.  I hope you are learning something!  Even if you have doubles, this is a great refresher on how to save extra money!  Everyone can use some cash around this time of year.

• Stockpile when you can.  This doesn't mean go Extreme Couponing and get 715 toothbrushes, but get what you can use if you have the coupons.  I stock up on toiletries and household items when a great coupon comes out.  I have enough toothpaste and fabric softener for at least a year!  All for free, cannot beat that!  
• Best advice: be realistic as to what you can use and the shelf life of the product.
  
• Most people are confused how to find the great deals.  There are tons of savings websites out there, but I cannot say enough about Afullcup.com.  I have found out about so many great deals earlier than other websites.  
  
•  Use both store and manufacturer coupons.  If you are unsure as to how this is done, here's a previous post of mine.  You can get a lot of cheap or free items by combining the two types of coupons.  
• Meijer has both Mealbox coupons and Mperks.  You can use both with manufacturer coupons, but not the two together.  Why do they make it so confusing!?  I wish they would make Mealbox coupons digital, it would make everything a breeze!
• If you see any coupons in a store ad, make sure to keep them and even grab extras when you go to the store.  
• Find a local blog which gives you coupon match-ups.  They do all of the dirty work for you!  My favorite for this area is Saving Addiction.  

What is your best money-saving tip?  Are you one of the lucky ones in a doubling area?  You might be and not even know it! 

Other posts:

• How to save money, day 2 
• How to save money, day 1

How to save money without double coupons: step 2

Happy Sunday everyone! 

Yesterday, I shared my first tip on how to save money in an area which doesn't double coupons: shop early.

Here are more tips for you:

• Shop sales.  This goes for any area, but especially when you have to make your money stretch further.  Once you start following the ads and what is on sale, you will be amazed at how much you can save.  Meijer, Family Fare and all of the drug stores offer early ad previews, so you can get a head start on your grocery list and menu planning.
• If you plan your menu to the sales, as well as using your pantry more often, you can save so much money!  My best tip is to have a weekly or monthly budget.  For our family, $100 seems to work each week.  Each family is different though!
• If you are stuck as to what to make, use an online resource like Allrecipes.  I love their ingredient search because you can find so many fun and different recipes you wouldn't have used before.  Once I find a keeper, I add it to my virtual recipe box.
• Once you know what's on sale, flip through your coupons and find even better deals.  I use A Full Cup for this, people do all of the work for you!  Go to specific grocery store's forum and they list coupon match ups.   I also love the Target forum.
• Do some research.  I know grocery stores in the Lansing area double coupons, so if I'm in the area visiting my parents, I might save a shopping trip for their local store.  There might be a store closer than you think!  When we were in Madison, our local Copps doubled every few weekends. 
• Since our Kmart does double occasionally, I do always check to see if there are any great deals that week.  Usually you can get great savings on items like wipes and baby products.

Tomorrow, I will finish up this blog series with my final tips.  I hope you are learning something! 

How to save money without double coupons: Step 1

When we moved back to Michigan last year, I was shocked when I found out there are NO stores in my area that double coupons.  Actually, we have one Kmart which occasionally does, but their prices are SO much higher!  It was a bit of a bummer, especially since the grocery prices are higher here.

After making some adjustments, I have learned to save almost the same amount of money.  It's sad watching that crazy Extreme Couponing show and realizing some areas of this country TRIPLE coupons.  I can't even imagine!

Here are some tips for everyone in the land of no doubles (or LOND in bloggy world).  

• Shop early in the day.  Especially Monday or Tuesday.  

• As the shelves are restocked, they mark down boxes that are not so pretty (ripped, smashed, etc).  Look for big orange stickers.  With cereal and crackers, this doesn't matter because the food is in another bag inside.  Who cares what the box looks like!  You can save 50% or more.  Use that with a coupon and you are getting super cheap items.  I stay away from cans, unless it is just the tag that is ripped. 
• Reduced produce carts go out early, as well.  I was almost stalking the produce lady last Tuesday when I realized she was marking down items.  I got 20lbs of Gala apples for $5...perfect for applesauce and baby food.  I also get potatoes, onions, grapes, berries (watch out for mold!), citrus.  
• Don't be afraid of markdowns in the meat section.  You can get great cuts of meat cheaper.  Stay away from browning meat, though!  I just repackage once I get home and throw it in the freezer.  Chicken breasts have been my favorite find lately, they bake quickly for a  weeknight meal.
• By the salad mix are bags of broccoli, stir-fry mix, squash, etc,  I LOVE these bags because I always can find at least one marked 40% off ($1.20) and they steam right in the microwave.  So quick and easy.  If I find a lot, I throw them in the freezer.
• On other non-food items, markdowns are done overnight or early.  
• Target has a set markdown schedule (great to know if you are watching an item):
• Monday: Kids Clothing, Stationary Items, Electronics, Baby
  Tuesday: Domestics, Food, Women’s Clothing, Pets
  Wednesday: Men’s Clothing, Toys, HBA, Lawn and Garden
  Thursday: Housewares, Shoes, Lingerie, Sporting Goods, Media, Books              Friday: Auto, Cosmetics, Hardware, Jewelry

Tomorrow, I'll cover more tips, including how to shop the sales ads!

Aldi for beginners

Happy Saturday y'all!  Are you going grocery shopping today? Read this first!

Aldi is one of my favorite grocery stores.  In the past, I've written an "Ode to Aldi".

I know I can't buy everything I need, but I can get great deals on staples.  As I was strolling down the aisles there yesterday, I saw an Aldi newbie looking confused and excited at the same time.  A huge light bulb went off in my head: I need to break Aldi down!  A lot of people are scared to go there and you really shouldn't be!  Here are my tips!

1. Always keep a quarter in your car.  You will need it for the cart!
• Don't forget your handy reusable bags too! You can also buy them there or find boxes within.
2. Shop here first, you can cross off a lot of your list
3. Don't be afraid to browse or try something new.  Here are my favorite items (just in case you didn't see my last post):
• I am a Kraft mac n' cheese girl, but their version HAS to be the same!  Its super yummy and at least 50 cents cheaper!
• Fit n' Active brand: chicken stock, egg beaters...pretty much everything is great
• Frozen chicken: tenderloin/breast and whole chickens.  Much cheaper than other grocery stores and I feel they are juicier! 
• Ground turkey
• Frozen burger patties.  I know grilling season is pretty much over, but these are great to have on hand
• For the kids: fruit snacks, granola bars, chicken nuggets
• Frozen veggies & fruit
• Bread, especially buns
4. If you really like an item, you may want to consider stocking up!  (Not crazy Extreme Couponing style, but you know what I mean!)
• I fell in love with their ranch rice cakes when I was pregnant and they are rarely there anymore!  If I see them, I buy at least 5 bags. 
5. Although they have sale ads, most of their prices are always the same.  I love this because you always know what to expect. 
• They don't accept coupons, but they really aren't needed anyway!

I could go on forever!  If you have never been, visit your local store!

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Focus Forward: quick and easy money!

Sign up here! (note: this is a referral link)

Since I am staying home with the little ladies right now, I don't have the extra income I had when we were in Wisconsin.  I am so fortunate to be able to spend time with my kids...Ricky works his tushie off for us!

For extra money, I take surveys online.  Although I don't make a ton of money, I earn rewards like gift cards and I sample tons of products.  It was funny when we were moving because I have so many products in plain white boxes or bottles.  All sample items!

If you are interested in doing surveys, here is a list of my favorite.  I can give you tons of advice if you need it!  I've been doing this for over 10 years now!

My new favorite site is Focus Forward.  I don't take a ton of regular surveys from them, but they have amazing focus groups that pay a LOT!  One was an online video chat (45 minutes) for over $100!  Their Twitter page has a lot of extra groups you can sign up for.  Make sure you give them a valid phone number to call.  Although you may not qualify for every study you apply for, its worth it to try!  What a nice way to save up some extra cash for the holiday season! 

Quick note: NEVER, ever sign up for a survey site that makes you PAY to join!  Those are scams!

Other posts that may interest you:

• Diaper Studies: they send you FREE packs of diapers PLUS you get $10!
• Vocalpoint: No surveys, just full-sized samples with great coupons.

Any survey sites that you love?  I am always willing to try new ones!

I love Vocalpoint!

 

 

Vocalpoint.com

I have mentioned it a few times, but I seriously LOVE getting mail.  Especially samples, coupons and freebies!  I have been this way since I was little.  Everyday, I cannot wait to hear the mailman pull up to the apartment.  Yes, I am a geek.  I have been a member of Vocalpoint for years and they mail out the best samples ever.  They always include great high value coupons too!

Right now, they have an offer for Motts for Tots.  We love juice (or juicy, as the twins call it) around here, so I signed up right away.  I know that they will include great coupons!

Here's the direct link for the Mott's promotion: http://www.vocalpoint.com/mottsfortots  and you can sign up there!  Hurry, there are limited supplies.

Week 5: My garden is so sad!

Week 3: It looked so promising.....

Week 5: ...to SO dead. 

My garden is looking pretty sad these days.  My topsy turvy planters are doing a lot better, but my herbs are completely dead.  At least I can't take total blame for this.  The lovely neighbors upstairs have been throwing random soapy water and who knows what else off of their balcony, completely drowning my herbs.  I have moved them several times to avoid this situation, but it's obviously too late.  This is just added to the list of things my neighbors do to drive us crazy.  For a few weeks, they decided feeding the geese Fruit Loops and Arby's curly fries was fun.  To put it nicely, they drive us crazy! 

I am going to try one more time with a fresh set of herbs, but I may just have to throw in the towel until we move into a house.  I'm so bummed!

My strawberry plants are starting to grow!

My tomato plant has doubled in size.

Anyone have any tips for me!? 

Quick tip: Rainchecks!

Lately, I have been super frustrated with finding the "hot deals" of the week.  I swear there is someone who gets to the store 5 minutes before me and clears the shelves for every great deal.  If available, always ask for a raincheck!  That little piece of paper can save you time (and expensive gas money!).  Instead of driving around town to other stores trying to find the sale item, just wait until the item is no longer on sale. You usually have from 2-4 weeks to get the item at the sale price.  Just remember to check your coupon expiration dates! You don't want to miss out on a super great deal by forgetting that your coupon expired! 

Wednesday: Found some deals!

I'm going to try out a new post each Wednesday where I list the best deals I've seen for the week so far.  I figure by Wednesday everyone will have gone out shopping and reported back any great deals.  I am going to start off with stores that are locally available and then branch off to others, if need be.  Right now my focus will be on: Meijer, Target, Drugstores and D&W/Family Fare.  Also, a few online deals.  I am not going to post everything, just what I think is an awesome deal.  To find other deals, head on over to AfullCup.
 
*This week seems pretty calm, but I'll add more as I see them!*

Meijer

• LA Looks hair gel for $0.99 - $1.00 off coupon from last week's coupons = FREE.  To be honest, I didn't know they still made this stuff! 
• Taco Bell items 50% off- use $0.75/2 off coupon (from the paper 2 weeks ago) for super cheap taco seasoning.  Also great price to stock up on taco shells!
• Sweet Baby Rays Marinade & dipping sauce $1 - $1 off coupon from this week's paper= FREE.
• Chi-Chis salsa $0.99 - $0.50 off coupon = 0.49!  or if your store doubles (anywhere besides west MI) it's FREE!
• Hillshire Farm smoked sausages (GREAT for Memorial Day grill outs!) 3/$5 - 0.55 off coupon= $1.12!
• Ballpark hotdogs $0.98-0.75/2 = 0.60 per pack!  I'm going to stock our freezer with these!

CVS

• Purex detergent is $1.98, subtract $1.00 coupon (from a few weeks ago)= $0.97!  I love Purex and I'm going to try to stock up on the Free & Clear for the baby!

I can't wait to go grocery shopping today!  I love good deals at Meijer!


Anything catch your eye this week?  I'm sure I missed something!

Spring cleaning? Use Freecycle!

http://www.freecycle.org/

I know you have all heard of Craigslist, but I am loving Freecycle right now!  People post items they are giving away for FREE and all you have to do is email them back.  Most likely, you have one in your area.  Granted, most of the items being given away are probably not what you need/want, but you never know what will be posted.  I love that you can also post what you WANT to find.  For instance, we're looking for a jogging stroller (anyone have one?!), so we could put a wanted post up.  I've found baby books, unused baby items and other random things on there.  Here are some more perks:

• Some of the post offer some form of entertainment.  You cannot imagine some things that people list.  When you sign up, make sure you remove the check mark for daily emails.  They sent out a TON of emails.
• Have a larger item you don't feel like selling, but want to get rid of?  Freecycle it!  Instead of trying to haul it to Goodwill, someone will pick it up for you!
• I have noticed a lot of people who are moving are posting great items that they just want to get rid of.  Instead of bothering with a garage sale, they are just posting freebies.  

You aren't allowed to resell items you find on here, unless otherwise posted.  I'm not sure how people would know, but its one of the main policies.  

Let me know what gems you have found on Freecycle!

Key ring app

Here's the website.  You can download the app from the iTunes store.

I'm not one of those cool people with a smart phone, but I do have an iPod touch I won from one of my survey sites.  I try to use it as much as I can, but most stores don't have wireless for me to use.  I just happened to stumble upon this app a few days ago and its pretty cool!

For every key ring tag that weighs down your car keys, you can add it to this app and keep them all in one place.  I have at least 15 things on my keys, so I thought I would try this out.  (FYI- even if you do add them to this app, I wouldn't recommend throwing the key tags away, just in case!!).  You can search by area or by store name.   Here are some favorite things I have found:

• On the Border- FREE appetizer!
• Target- coupons are added randomly.  They can still be used with manu coupons, just like regular Target store coupons
• Michaels- Each week they add the 40% off coupon from the paper

Since the app is still pretty new, they don't have every store possible YET.  I think this may become something pretty cool though.  This is also available for Android!

Check it out!  What great deals came up on yours?