Free 8x10 Canvas!

Canvas People is giving away a FREE 8x10 canvas on their web page!  All you pay is shipping and handling and you get the picture free!  (or if you want to do something different they will take $50.00 off of your purchase!)  If you are interested in this click here and it will take you to their site!

Also want to remind everyone that today is Tuesday so don't forget your Marshfield Mail!  I also want to appologize for not finishing the Walgreen's match-up this week!  Time got away from me and the next thing I knew it was Tuesday already.  If anyone needs help with their shopping trips this week I'd be happy to answer any questions you have.  Contact me by comments here, by e-mail @ mrsbrand1987@gmail.com, by facebook at One Brand's Savings or if you have my number call or text me!!  

Have a fantastic day!!

Something New: Where to find coupons session 1

Decided to start doing a few "series" pieces once a week to teach about different aspects of couponing.  The first thing I've decided to start with is where to find coupons.  I'm going to do this in the same way I teach my classes, but broken down into segments that I will post each week.  The first segment is going to focus on coupons and be broken down into different aspects of that!  Hope everyone enjoys this new part of the blog!!  I plan on posting each new segment on Monday.

Question 1: WHERE do you find coupons?  That question is one that I here ALL THE TIME!  The truth is, I don't find them any place that you don't have access too as well :)  I get probably 90% of my coupons from (wait for it......) the SPRINGFIELD NEWS LEADER, every Sunday!!  (are you shocked?).  I found a statistic that said 87.7% of coupons come from the newspaper, and I definitly belive that.  I know that a lot of people think you can only get good coupons if you have internet access but that just isn't true! 

The key to getting the best coupons from the newspaper is to pay attention to what time of the month it is.  Here is the basic info:
P & G Brand Saver (P & G=Proctor and Gamble) comes out the last/first Sunday of every month.  (Depends on how the month is falling, but if you follow along here or on my facebook then I will give you a heads up on when to expect it!!)  This insert usually contains most of the bathroom items and cleaner coupons.
SmartSource comes out pretty much every Sunday.  This is mostly coupons for your grocery items, but there are a few bathroom/household type things.
Redplum comes out pretty much every Sunday as well.  This is a mixture of grocery and bathroom/household items.

Ok, so tune in next Monday for session 2!!
For a sneak peak of what is to come click here to start printing internet coupons from my favorite site!!

A Half Wag's Match-ups

Just wanted to let you all know that I am not posting FULL match-ups for Walgreen's until tomorrow since I'm expecting the P & G Brand Saver to come out tomorrow and we will get a whole new slew of coupons!  I am going to go ahead and just point out some of the deals I see that will be good with some of the Q's we already have...so read today but check back again tomorrow for match-up's featuring the NEW coupons :)

Walgreen's :
Miracle Whip or Mayo $2.49 with in ad Q
Select Candy $2/5 and use $1/1 skittles or starburst from coupons.com to make it 2/$4.00 click here for coupon!!
Secret Scent Expressions B1G1 50% off and use the B2Deodorant and get one body spray FREE
Crest White Strips $10.00/1 with in ad Q and use the $10.00/1 Q from August P & G Brand Saver
Huggies Wipes $5.99 and if you have the Walgreen's Infant Care booklet there is a $2.00/1 Q makes them $3.99
Mead Envelope $0.79 with in ad Q
Select General Mills Cereal or Bars are 5/$10.00 and you also get 15 box tops at check out.  If you use the $1.00/3 Cereal and the $0.75/2 Granola Bars you will get them 5/$8.25

Select P & G items you will get $10RR when you spend $30.00, a few worth noticing;
Bounty Paper Towels $5.50 and use $0.25/1 makes them $5.25
Charmin 6 Double Rolls $4.00 and use $0.25/1 makes them $3.75
Tide $6.00 and use $1.00/1 makes it $5.00
Gain $5.00 and use $1.00/1 makes it $4.00
Cheer $5.00 and use $0.50/1 makes it $4.50


I hope everyone has a great shopping trip tomorrow if you are going out.  Don't forget your smiles :) or your newspaper!!  Let me know what kind of deals everyone gets!!

Last minute things!

Just wanted to check in with everyone since it's friday and we are on the down hill slope to the weekend!  So a few quickies!

Looks like there are a bunch of yard sales around town this weekend, so if you are still on the hunt for fall clothes, check some of them out.  If you are on Facebook search for the Online Yardsale Marshfield and request to be added so that you can stay in the know on upcoming sales! :)

Second if you haven't already made your grocery list-get on it!  :)  Start with your meal plan first, and don't forget to check the sales (refer to yesterday's post for match-ups).  There are some good deals around this week :) and it looks like a good weekend for Steak at Harter House!

Third (and maybe most important) it looks like we should be expecting the P & G Brand Saver in this Sunday's newspaper, so put it on your to-buy list so you don't forget!!  :)

I also thought I'd throw in this link again incase you are having a date night :)  Click here and sign up for Chili's Newletter to get a FREE queso and chips appetizer!!

Happy Friday!!

Grocery Match-Ups 8/24/11 through 8/30/11 :)

Ok finally getting the match-ups posted!  Really wanted to get this done last night, but "whoa is me" and Tyson had a splinter in his foot that took first priority.

Harter House:
Big Steak Sale!! Large Variety of Steaks on sale, so just to high light a few!
T-Bone $6.99lb
Pork Steak $1.00lb
Flat Iron $4.99lb (my personal favorite!!  Marinate a few hours with your favorite Steak Marinade and it's fantastic!)
Boston Burger 80% Lean $1.99lb
Select Candy Bars $0.19
Folgers $6.99 there is a Q available here for $0.50/1 (doubles) makes it only $5.99!! (this coffee is also on Sale at Summer Fresh for the same price, and maybe even Price Cutter TOO!!)
Post Cereal $1.59
General Mills Cereal Sale (2 options)
Option one: Golden Grahams, Cheerios, Total and Cookie Crisp $1.89 and use $1/3 AND $0.50/1 (Total kind and doubles)
Option two: Fiber 1, Basic 4, Wheaties, and Honey Nut Cheerios $1.99 and use $1/3
Hiland O.J $2.99 and use $0.55/1
Cottage Cheese $1.99
Best Choice 2% $3.39 and Whole $3.79
Best Choice Mac n' Cheese $0.99
Always Save Vegetable Oil $2.49
Hamburger Helper TWIN Pack $1.99 and many option on coupons, best one is $0.75/3 makes them $1.74 each
Era Laundry Soap $2.99 and use $0.50/1 (doubles) makes it only $1.99!
Avacados $0.99
Head Lettuce $0.99
Broccoli $0.99
Bar S Franks $0.79
28 pack Corn Dogs $5.89

Summer Fresh:
Bagged Chicken Leg Quarters $0.49lb
Sunny D $0.99 and use $0.25/1 (doubles) only $0.49!
Best Choice Frozen Waffles $0.99
Grapes $0.99lb
Cut Seedless Watermelon $0.39lb!
Family Pack Top Sirloin $3.99lb
Angus Beef Rump Roast $2.99lb
Lunchables (Oscar Meyer) 10/$10
Ball Park Beef Franks $3.79 and use $0.75/1 makes them $3.04
Best Choice Potatoes (5lb bag) $2.49
Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite 4/$11 (with in ad Q, must show it to get price)
Luvs $13.99 for the big box!
Sarah Lee Bread $1.89
Velveeta Cheesy Skillet Meal 2/$3.00 use $1.00/1 makes them 2/$2.00
Betty Crocker Fruit Snack 2/$5.00 and use $0.50/2 (doubles) makes them 2/$4.00
Green Giant Frozen Vegetables 10/$10
Yoplait still on sale 10/$5 and use $0.50/8 (doubles) makes them 10/$4.00 or $0.40 each
Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls 2/4 and use $0.50/2 (doubles) makes them 2/$3.00

Price Cutter:
Grapes $0.99lb
Green Giant Vegetables $0.49 each!
Hiland Family Pack Ice Cream $1.79 and use $0.55/1 makes it only $1.24 (I'm wondering if this is a misprint because inside the ad the same ice-cream is shown for much more...may check before purchasing!)
Kellogg's Cereal $1.99 and use $1/2 makes them $1.49 each
WhoNu Cookies 2/$5.00 and use $1.00/1 (two if you have them) makes them 2/$4.00 (or 2/$3.00 if you use 2) Q is available here.
Rice Crispy Treats 2/$4.00 and use $1.00/1 makes them 2/$3.00
C and H Sugar 2/$5.00
Smart Balance Butter 2/$5.00 and use $1.00/2 makes them 2/$4.00
Pizza Rolls 4/$5.00 and use $0.40/2 (doubles) and you can use 2 if you have them and it makes them 4/$4.20 (or 4/$3.40 if you use 2)
Boneless Pork Sirloin Roast $1.89lb
Boneless Beef Check Tender $3.69lb
Walla Walla Sweet Onions $0.89lb
Coke Products 4/$11.00 with in ad Q (must show Q for price)

Walmart:
Old El Paso Tortilla Stuffers $2.50 and use $1.00/1 and makes them only $1.50 each!

Ok, totally wanted to do more with this post but my internet is not cooperating.  So, I guess I'll edit this tomorrow.  Have a fantastic evening.

Interesting Offer

Got an e-mail notice for a really interesting offer from Nielson Home Scan Consumer Panels...I went to the webstite to see what it was all about!  This is what I learned:

The company is a company that chooses consumers to test/report on items they buy at the grocery store.  They send you a scanner to scan items as you buy them at the store and then you report to them about those items.  To find out if they were selecting people from this area you had to register.  The registration process took less than 5 minutes and pretty much consisted of questions regarding our home.  How many people, who is the primary shopper, and a little information about things we have in our house (computer, TV, etc.).  The last page was a page stating they'd send you an e-mail to let you know if you would be selected.

I know it sounds kind of hokey but I think it sounds fun, kind of hope they pick me!  If you are interested click here!!

Interesting Site for Parents with Children!

Ok, so I've signed up with a Network to get some incentive for some of my blog posts.  To get the incentive I have to do blog posts related to items they have available, post the links, hope you guys click them/sign-up/put in your e-mail/or whatever they require, and then boom I make a little money for my efforts :)  (But you should know I just really LIKE doing this, so if you don't click, sign-up, and play along-that's ok too). 

So, last night got an exclusive e-mail saying that this website ThredUp is having a promotion.  I have NEVER heard of this site before, so I decided to check it out myself this morning!  Here is what I know:

When I first got to the site it explained that it's a site where you can exchange childrens clothes and toys through the mail for $5.00 (plus shipping and handling and it's $10.95) and you get a large box of clothing.

First I had to enter my e-mail address, shipping address and phone number.

The company is so certain that you will LIKE the products that this month they are offering your first box at no cost!! (you just pay the $10.95)

I started searching through "boxes" for stuff that is my son's size and they have descriptions of the items, photos, and ratings from other people on how well they liked that seller!  It's like EBAY for baby clothes!!

So, I think I'm going to try this out....(after my husband gets paid) to let you guys know, but if someone else tries it out BEFORE me please share a comment to tell us what you think!!!  And if you try it and don't like it, then please let me know...I only want to post about things that are good and helpful and save us MONEY!!! 

I plan to post match-ups tonight for the grocery stores, so don't forget to check back!

Internet Coupons

When it comes to printing coupons off the internet for groceries and bathroom items there ARE savings to be found.  I know that some people get overwhelmed by all the different sites available for printing coupons so I wanted to do a little internet coupon break down to try and make it easier.

First and foremost, my favorite internet printable coupon website is coupons.com.  You can access this by clicking HERE.  I like it because I can find a lot of the coupons (that'd I'd find on other websites like, coupondivas.com or afullcup.com, all in one location).  A good coupon available now on coupons.com is for string cheese/cheese heads and you can get it quickly by clicking here.  The only requirements of coupons.com is to sign up by entering you e-mail address.  It will generate coupons each time you log on by the zip code that you enter during sign-up.  However, you can enter different zip codes while browsing the coupons to see what other offers are available.  (Keep in mind that not all the coupons offered in different zip codes will be for products available to us)


Another website that is good for printing coupons is redplum.com.  These coupons will be similar to ones that you clipped from the newspaper, but occasionally they offer coupons that are not found in the Sunday paper, so it is worth checking.  You can get to that website by clicking here.

I also like smartsource.com.  It is similar to redplum as far as being like the ones in the paper, but again sometimes the website offers different coupons.  You can access it by click here.

So, those are the top three sites that I would suggest when printing internet coupons.  There of course are a bunch more available than that, but those are my go-to sites.  Let me know what YOUR favorite printable site it!

Also, don't forget, tomorrow is Wednesday so you will want to make sure to pick up your Marshfield Mail!

GOOD printables this week!!

Wanted to offer you guys access to some great printable coupons and deals this week!  Make sure you get them while they are HOT :)

If you click here it will take you to the quizno's site to print coupons for a FREE sub (with the purchase of one) FREE chips or a cookie and a drink with the purchase of a sandwich and 2 other GREAT offers from Quizno's!  Get in on the fun and give yourself a treat this week!!



If you click here you can print a FREE calendar from Vista Print.  All you will pay is shipping and handling and the calendar is FREE!!  I think this offer ends Friday though, so make sure you get it before it ends!  (This would make a fantastic Christmas present!)



Getting ready for Winter

Today I couldn't help but think about how Summer is coming to an end, which means we are about to enter the season of Chili's, Roast's and other crock-pot dinners.  At our house we try preparing for winter meals by stocking up on those things we will use regularly during the season.  A few examples of winter staples are:

Kidney Beans

Black Beans

Pinto Beans

Canned Veggies

Seasoning Packets (various ones like brown gravy, roast seasoning, ranch dressing seasoning, etc)

Sugar

Flour

and many other items that I could fill the page with!  The point is, start preparing for winter meals now by taking an inventory of the items in your cabinets and assessing where you are in your winter stock pile.  

As you take inventory of the items in your cabinets make lists of the things you need and of the things you DON'T need.  Watch sales in the next few months to start stocking up on some of those winter cooking necessities so that you don't find yourself paying full price for canned beans or corn in the middle of winter!

 

Walgreen's Match-Up for 8/21/11 through 8/27/11 (with the 8/21 Smart Source Q's)

Decided to go ahead and post match-ups again with this weeks Smart Source Q's.

Walgreens:
Chex-Mix B1G1 Free and use $0.50/2 to make them 2/$2.69 or $1.34 each!
Brach's Candy is $0.99 with in ad Q and use the $1.00/2 to get one free :)
Hot Pockets 2/$3.00 with in ad Q, buy 4 and use the $1.00/3 to make them 4/$5.00
Wisk is $6.99 and use the $2.00/1 to make it $4.99
L'Oreal has skin care 25% off and use the $2.00/1
L'Oreal Cosmetics B1G1 50% off and use $1.00/1
Mitchum Deodorant $1.99 with in ad Q and use $1.00/1 makes them $0.99
Clear Care Contact Solution is $5.00 off with in ad Q and use the $3.00/1 twin pack
Claritin is $28.99 with a 4RR use the $4.00 Q and the $4.00 Wags Q from the book and makes it $16.99
Zyrtec $18.99 with 4RR and use $4.00 Q and the $4.00 Wags Q from the book and makes it $10.99

Happy shopping this week.  Please tell me what kind of deals you got!!  I love shopping trip break downs :)

A Sea of Binders

Totally amazed this morning at Walgreen's when EVERY person I saw (ok maybe not everyone but more had than didn't have) had a binder for coupons!! It was interesting actually because I've been shopping at Walgreen's on Sunday morning for a few months now and I've never really noticed before.  The word must be getting out, coupons rock!

After seeing the sea of coupon binders this morning, it compelled me to post a few reminder tips in regards to coupon courtesy and etiquette.

1.)  Be friendly and polite while shopping.  This morning it seemed like everyone was there, with their binder, but it was more like a contest/race than a pleasant shopping trip.  I couldn't tell that anyone was really HAPPY to be saving, more like everyone seemed to be trying to get the item first and into their cart...even if that meant buying, 6, 7, or 8 of the same items...yes I saw that this morning.  So, remind yourself not to be the green eyed monster snatching up items and tossing them in your cart, just so you can say you got a good deal!

2.)  WHAT ARE YOU DOING with all those multiple items?  I saw a woman loading up on like 8 dial body washes...yes I REALIZE they were on sale and had a great RR attached to them, but when you get home and need to store all that-where do you put it?  I can only hope that the people I saw buying multiple items (beyond the amount of adding to their stockpile) were planning on donating it to a pantry, church, or family member in need.  Otherwise, I encourage everyone that when shopping with coupons (while extremely exciting and a great head rush) to analyze each items you are purchasing.  There is nothing more embarrassing than getting home and having to explain to your husband why you bought him 6 body washes when he already had 2 from your LAST coupon shopping trip!!

3.)  Give the cashier your store ad coupons instead of expecting them to ring up correctly.  (My big goof today, even I still mess up lol).  I always seem to forget that I have to show the cashier the coupon in the ad I'm expecting to use, it isn't their JOB to scan it for you.  Now, that isn't to say some cashiers won't do it just to be nice, but on a Sunday (their busy coupon day) have the ad ready and ready to be scanned with your other coupons to save the cashier time!

Hope everyone saved a bunch today!  I didn't buy much, just a few sharpies and deodorants (sharpies for coupon class and deodorants for church) and of course my paper!  (If you haven't bought your paper yet, there was only a Smart Source insert this week.)  Let me know what kind of deals you got!!

Walgreen's Match-Up for 8/21/11 through 8/27/11

This weeks Walgreen's Match-Up...there isn't anything I'm too excited about this week, I guess that will make it easy to not spend too much! :)

Walgreens:
Dr. Pepper, 7-Up, and Sunkist soda all $0.99 with Walgreens in ad Q
Bleach $0.99 with Walgreens in ad Q (good stock pile price)
Airwick $7.99 with 3RR makes it $4.99 and use the $4.00/1 to make it only $0.99!!
Sharpies $0.39
PaperMate ink pens 10 pack $0.29
Clean and Clear on sale for $5.00 and use $1.00Q to make it only $4.00
Select Axe Products B1G1 50%off and use the B1G1 Q to get a better deal!
The Venus/Gillette Pro-glide sale is on going (see last weeks match-up for details)
Dove or Degree Deodorant on sale 2/$4.00 with a 1RR.  Buy one degree and one (ladies) dove and use $0.75/1 and buy one ladies dove get his free to get them 3/$2.25
Mitchum Deodorant on sale for $1.99 with Walgreens in ad Q and use the $0.75/1 (or if you have any printed from coupons.com you can use the $1.00/1 to make it only $0.99!)
Kotex B1G1 50% off use Wags Q from booklet and $1.50/2 tampons for a better deal
Tampax/Allergy 2/$11.00 with 4RR makes them 2/$7.00 and use $0.50/1 Tampons and $1.00/1 liners to make it 2/$5.50 or $2.75 each
Walfex Allergy 16.99 with 4RR makes it 12.99 and use Wags Booklet Q for $5.00/1 to make it $7.99
Colgate Select Tooth past and brush $4.99 with 4RR makes it $0.99 and use Colgate $0.40 off any colgate manual tooth brush to make it $0.59!  (Great stock pile price!!)

10/10 sales

(Disclaimer: I'm posting this after having just finished my grocery shopping trip and getting annoyed at the store being totally wiped out of certain items I planned on purchasing for very very cheap)

I wanted to post about 10/10 sales today because after recent discussions on this current trend and a very disappointing trip to Price Cutter I thought education may be needed ;).

When a store advertises a 10/10 sale, unless they specify that you MUST buy 10 items to get them for a $1.00, then you do not have to buy 10 items.  I repeat you do NOT have to buy 10 items to get them for a $1.00 unless the store specifies this in their ad!!!

Walgreens typically does specify this, but I have yet to see this specified at our local stores (ie: Price Cutter, Summer Fresh, Harter House).  So, mix and match items or only buy 1 or 2 if you only need a couple things.

Hope everyone is having a great day! Don't forget to get the Sunday paper tomorrow and get your Walgreens shopping list ready!

And if you haven't already made a guess on my Facebook page to win the gas card, then head over to One Brand's Savings @ Facebook!!

Friday Reminders!

Just wanted to give you guys a few reminders!
1.) If you are going shopping this weekend don't forget to set your budget and make your list!  Shop the sale ads from Wednesday's Marshfield Mail and use my blog post of Match-Ups to get the best deals out there! 

2.) If you are stockpiling, take note that spaghettie noodles are cheap cheap this week at Harter House for only $0.89!! 

3.) Tomorrow is the give away on my facebook page.  If you read along here and you have not "Liked" my facebook page do it today!!  Tomorrow I will post the question and you will have all day to guess!!

4.) Tomorrow is Saturday and the last day of this weeks Walgreens ad AND the SaturDate with beauty sale!!  Dove products are on sale 4/$15 and there are ALL kinds of coupons out there to use!! ;)

Happy Friday!! 

Match-Ups 8-17-11 through 8-23-11

Here are this weeks grocer store match-ups!  Looks like there are some decent deals this week!

Price Cutter:
10/10 Sale:
Green Giant Baby Carrots
Best Choice Mashed Potatoes (Twin Packs)
Red Gold Canned Tomatoes
Taco Bell Refried Beans
Green Giant Boil-in-Bag Veggies
Pillsbury Grands use $0.30/2 (doubles)
Pillsbury Crescent Rolls use $0.40/2 (doubles)
Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls $0.50/2 (doubles)
Yoplait Greek Yogurt use $0.50/2 (doubles)
Other Sale Items: 
Whole Chicken $0.79 lb
Totino's Party Pizza 4/$5.00 use $1.00/4
Ivory Body Wash $3.49 use $0.50/1 (doubles)
Extra Large Green Peppers $0.89

Summer Fresh:
Family Pack Ground Beef $1.58 lb
Best Choice Canned Veggies 2/$1.00
Sweet Corn (On the Cob) 3/$1.00
Hiland Milk $3.48
Yoplait Yogurt 10/$5 use $0.50/8 (doubles) makes them about $0.40 each!
C&H Sugar $2.99
Smart Balance Butter 2/$6.00 use $1.00/2
Ball Park Franks $2.49 use $0.75/2
Frozen Chicken Breast Tenders or Breasts $2.99
Tyson Anytizers 2/$5.00 use $1.00/1
Luvs Diapers (box) $6.99
Suave Bodywash, Lotion, Shampoo and Conditioner all on sale for $1.99 you could use the Kids Q for $0.50/2, the Mens Product Q for $0.50/2, or the $1.50/2 lotions.
Bisquick 2/$4.00 use the $0.50/1 (doubles)
Pillsbury Ready to Bake Cookies 2/$5.00 use the $0.50/1 (doubles)
Hiland Old Recipe Ice Cream $3.89 use $0.50 (Q says do not double, but they doubled it last week!)

Harter House:
Hormel BBQ Pork Shoulder B1G1
General Mills Cereal $1.89 use $1.00/2 or the $1.00/3
Taco Bell Taco Shells $0.89
Sweet Corn (On the Cob) 3/$1.00
Betty Crocker Muffin or Cookie Mix $1.99 use $0.40/1 (doubles)
Cube Steak Family Pack $3.49lb
Beef or Chicken Enchiladas $1.99 each
Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks $1.79lb
Beef Stew Meat $3.49lb

Wal-Mart:
Granola Thins $2.98 use $0.75/1
Yoplait Smoothies $2.98 use $0.75/1
FiberOne 90 Calorie Brownie $2.98 use $0.75/1
15 quart latch bin, medium tote, or 5 Gallon Storage Box $3.47
Buy HP Ink Twin or Combo Pack and get $10.00 Wal-mart Gift Card!!

Looks like this is a great week to stock up on some freezer items (chicken tenders and hamburger).  Don't forget to check what you already have in the cabinets and freezer before heading out to shop to make sure you don't buy something you don't need :)!  Happy Shopping everyone, as always don't forget to let me know what kind of deals you find!!

Dollar General Match-ups for 8/14/11 through 8/21/11

First off I know what you are thinking-2 blog posts in one day?!  No, I'm not wonder woman ;).

Dollar General:
Wisk laundry Soap $4.00 use $2.00/1 and get it for $2.00

Glade Scented Oil Candles and refills are on sale 2/$.500.  Buy 2 candles and use the $0.75/2 (or go here to print one for $1.50/3) and buy two refills and use the coupon for $1.00/2 (also available at above link).

Ziplock Bags 2/$5.00 and use the $1.00/2 makes them 2/$4.00 or $2.00 each

Windex 2/$5.00 and use the $1.00/2 and get 2/$4.00 or $2.00 each

Fantastik is $1.50 and use the $0.75/1 makes it $0.75

Glade Carpet Powder is on sale for $1.50 and use the $0.55/1Q (it's an old Q printed from coupons.com)

Scrubbing Bubbles Mega Shower Foamer is on sale for $3.50 and there is a $1.00/1Q from the P & G insert a few weeks ago that will make it only $2.50.

Scrubbing Bubbles Toilet Cleaning Gel is on sale for $3.50 and there is a B1G1 Q from P & G that reads "buy one scrubbing bubbles toilet cleaning gel and get a free scrubbing bubbles fresh brush" so good FREEBIE here!!

Brawny Paper Towels are on sale for $3.00 and you can use the $0.50 Q from last weeks inserts to get them for $2.50.

Happy shopping everyone.  As always don't forget your Marshfield Mail on Wednesday and let me know what kind of awesome deals and steals you bring home!! 

Local Stimulation

Yesterday I looked at my Facebook page in shock as I discovered not only did I have 50 fans but I had 53 fans!!  Considering I only thought my mom and my best friend would look at my blog and my Facebook page I was kind of amazed!  I think I smiled for like 5 minutes straight :)  After all the smiling and disbelief wore off I decided that this is something people really ARE interested in!  Which got me thinking...

I think that shopping locally is great.  It's good for local business, it's good for our county's economical stimulation, it lets us know who are neighbors are, and it saves us gas money (lol).  There are over 36,000 people in Webster county (true story!) and a lot of those people run or own their own business.  I thought to myself, if my page is about saving money then I should really look a little more closely at some of the things people offer right here in my own town!

I've contacted quite a few people and hopefully in the next few weeks I will begin a new aspect of my blog and Facebook page.  Each month I'm going to focus on a local business or sales person (ex: one of the local hair salongs, a mary kay sales woman, and some other surprises that I'll keep secret for now).  I will do a review on my blog of that business and one of the items they offer.  (If I've never tried the product I will do the best I can to get the product and try it BEFORE I review it,  This of course will depend on finances since I'm trying to save money, I don't have a whole lot to invest here...but I have faith it will work out well).  After I do the review on my blog, I will GIVE AWAY the product they offer FOR FREE!!  Fun huh?

I can't wait to get started on this fun new aspect of my savings page.  I think it will be a great way to get to know some of our local saleswomen (or men I guess) and a great way for me (and you) to help support them!!  A big thank you to the businesses I've already contacted and heard back from, and if you know anyone who might be interested they can find me on Facebook at One Brand's Savings (just type it in the search bar)!

I hope everyone is as excited about this as I am!! :)  Have a fantastic Tuesday, hopefully everyone has got their coupons cut from Sunday (I still haven't, bummer) and don't forget-tomorrow is Wednesday which means the new Marshfield Mail!!!

My wags trip 8/13/11

Items shown:
1 Tressemme shampoo
1 Tressemme conditioner
1 tressemme dry shampoo
1 tressemme style spray
1 purex laundry soap
2 huggies wipes (216 count)
18 folders
1 (400 count) printer paper
1 ban deodorant
3 packages of crayons
Retail cost: $54.22
OOP: $13.20
Total saved: $40.93!
I did 5 transactions. I did each box of crayons separate (cost $1 and got back 1RR). 
Then I paid for the tressemme.  They were 4/$15 with a 5RR so, 4/$10.  I had (2) $1/1 shampoos or conditioner and (2) $1/1 styling product so I only paid $6.89 (after RR).
The last transaction was the rest of the items and I used the purex Q, 2 huggies Q's (one from the wags infant care book and one from the wags big book), a $1/1 ban Q plus the advertised wags Q from the ad!!
How did everyone else do this weekend?!?!

Preparation is Key!!

When it comes time for grocery shopping (whether you are using coupons or not, but ESPECIALLY if you are using coupons) preparation (ie: planning) is the KEY to a good (ie: lots of savings) shopping trip!

The way I prepare for my shopping trips is by following 3 rules!  Budget, Meal Plan and List, and Sales

First Budget:
Set your budget before ever making your grocery list for the week.  If you do a monthly budget already this should be easy, however if you do not do a monthly budget and are unsure of how much you typically spend on groceries then I suggest you sit down and give this some good thought.  If you don't typically set a budget decide early on whether you want to shop for 1 week of groceries, 2 weeks, 3 or even 4.  (For myself I have found that shopping for just 1 week of groceries at a time I can save the most money since the sales are new each week.  By shopping just once per week I'm able to get the things I need and usually have a little extra for those stock up items when they go on sale-ex:noodles, sauce, sugar).  When I first started couponing we were spending about $170-$200 every two weeks on groceries (and toiletries, household, diapers) which adds up to $400 a month!!  (WAY WAY WAY too much in my opinion).  I'v now been able to drop my grocery spending to about $70 a week (including toiletries, household, diapers) which is only $280 a month (a savings of $120 a month).  My current goal is to drop that down to only $50 a week.

Second Meal Plan and Make a list:
Make your meal plan for the week (or however long you'll go between shopping trips) by looking at the sale ads. I repeat MAKE YOUR MEAL PLAN BY LOOKING AT THE SALE ADS.  The most expensive part of your bill will be meat, so watch for meat sales and base your weekly dinner around what is on sale.  From there ad on your sides, snacks, and anything else you'll need to EAT that week.  Make your grocery list from you meal plan list and check your coupon binder or folder to see what you coupons you have for sale items that week.

Finally Sales:
This kind of goes with the steps above but I want to reiterate how important sales are.  As I said above meat is expensive, if you can cut down the meat price by buying the sale items then do it!  Another way to save on meat/meals is if you can buy sale meat in bulk to put in your freezer and do multiple meals ex: HH had hamburger patties last week for $5.99 for 10, that made about 3 meals for my family at only $0.89 per burger!!  It's quick, easy, and CHEAP)

So I've got a little challenge for you!!  If you haven't started couponing or saving much money on your groceries yet then I am challenging you to spend at least $15.00 less this week (or in the next two weeks, whenever you'll be shopping) on your groceries (this means food items only, not toiletries, household, or diapers).
If you have been couponing and following the above steps for a while and have already cut down your bill then I challenge you to find a way to cut $5.00 more dollars off of it!  IF you just don't think you can cut down the $5.00 then add $5.00 TO your budget and spend $10.00 on food you can donate to the local food pantry or local church!

I bet you can do it by watching the sale ads alone!!  Good luck and Happy shopping-and yes, I'll expect feed back :)

Grocery (8/10 through 8/16) and Wags (8/14 through 8/20) Match-ups

Ok folks here you have it this weeks match-ups!!

Harter House:
Ground Beef $1.99lb
Fresh Green Beans $0.99lb
Best Choice Mac N' Chz $0.99 per box
Brownies $0.99 per box
Hiland O.J. $2.99 use $0.45 Q (if it doubles it will be $0.90 off) otherwise final price is $2.54 (if it doubles $2.09)
Velveeta $2.89
Cottage Cheese $1.99
Betty Crocker Cake Mix 2/$3.00
Betty Crocker Frosting $1.69 use the $0.75 off when you buy one of each cake mix and frosting
Chef Boyarde $0.99 use $0.35/3 (doubles to $0.70)
Era $2.99 use $0.50 (doubles to $1.00) final price $1.99
General Mills Cereal 1.99 (use $1.00/3 or $1.50/3-CAT)
Nutri-Grain Bars $1.99 use $1.00/2
Ziploc Bags $1.99 use $1.00/2
Bologna is only $0.98
Basic Paper Towels $5.99 use $0.25 (doubles to $0.50) final price $5.49 for 8 rolls!

Price Cutter:
Oscar Mayer Hot Dogs $0.99
Charmin $5.99 use $0.25 (doubles to $0.50) final price $5.46 for 16 double rolls
Tide $5.99 use $1.00/1 final price $4.99
Kellogg's Fruit Snacks 2/4 use $1.00/2 makes them 2/3 or $1.50 each
Keebler Cookies 2/4 use $1/2 makes them 2/3 or $1.50 each
WhoNu Cookies $2.79 use $1.00/1 makes them $1.79
Skinny Cow Candy $3.39 use $1.00/1 makes them $2.39
Peter Pan Peanut Butter $1.88 use $1/2 is $2.72 for two
Oscar Mayer Carving Board Lunch Meat $2.99 use $1.00/1 makes it $1.99
24 pack of Coke $6.99

Summer Fresh:
Bar S Hot Dogs $0.68
Hiland Milk $3.48

$5 off of $10.00 Kellogg's Products-can use many different Q's here.  Keebler, Fruit Snacks, Cereal coupons from last weeks inserts

Carving Board Oscar Mayer $2.99 use $1.00/1 makes it $1.99
Crest Tooth Paste $1.79 use $0.50/1 makes it $0.79 per tube
10 for 10 Sale has Chef Boyarde and Hunts Snack Pack (both have Q's available-see above P.C. deals)
Sara Lee Classic Bread is on sale for $2.99
McCormick Taco Seasoning 2/$1.00
Sunny D 2/$3.00 use $0.25 (doubles to 50) makes them 2/$2.50 or $1.25 each
Hiland Old Recipe Ice Cream $3.99 use $0.50 off (it says do not double but sometimes SF still does) final price $3.49 or $2.99 if doubled

Some of the good Hot Sheet Q's from SF this week include $0.99 for 2 liter of Coke, Diet Coke or Sprite, and a $3.00 off of $30 purchase

WALGREENS:
Mead 5 Star Notebooks B1G1 use $1.00/2
Ajax Dish Soap $0.89
Walgreens Brand Aluminum Foil $0.79
Cleaner Sale-Fantastic $2.99 use $0.75/1 makes it $2.24; Scrubbing Bubbles $2.99 use $100/2
Envelopes $0.69

Venus Razor $9.99 with 4RR makes it $5.00, if you do the 10RR when you spend $30 in Gellette Cartridges, Secret Clinical Deodorant, Old Spice Red Zone, or Fusion Shave Gel then you can use the $5.00 off of one razor when you buy one cartridge. Makes the razor only $0.99 and then you will only need to spend about $20 more to in products listed above to get $10RR back.

Skintimate Shave Gel is $1.99 with wags Q plus a $1.00/1 internet makes it $0.99

Scope Mouthwash, Crest White + Scope Tooth paste and Crest Floss all products are 2/$6.00 with $3RR.  There are multiple Q's ($0.75 for the toothpaste, mouthwash and scope) mix and match Q's but final price is 2/$1.50 or $0.75 each

Aussie $3 with 1RR makes it $2.00 use $1.00 and it's $1.00
Zyrtec $26.99 use the one week only $6.00/1 makes it $20.99
Kellogg's 2/$4.00 use $1/2 makes them 2/$3.00 or $1.50 each
Pampers 2/$20 use (2) $2.00/1 makes them 2/$13.00 or $6.50 each
Lysol no touch soap dispenser $11.99 with 5RR and $3/1 makes it only $3.99

I hope everyone has a great shopping weekend.  As always please post and let me know what kind of deals you get!  There are some super great sales this weekend and some great stock pile items are at low prices this week, it should be a wonderful time to build up the stock pile and get ready for winter!!  Make sure you make your lists before you go to get the best deals and have your coupons ready!!  Happy Shopping :)

Coupon Class

Taught a coupon class last night (actually only the 2nd one I've taught) but it was wonderful. 

We had such a great time, and I find that I'm ridiculously passionate about saving money...you'd think I had millions or even just hundreds in my savings account...unfortunatly that's not true because I more often than not find something else to spend my savings on (for example shopping).

I find it so interesting when I'm teaching class that someone always knows something about coupons even if they know nothing about coupons (confused? lol)  In both classes so far, I've had to field questions regarding the TLC Show Extreme Couponers (puke) and I've learned things that even I didn't know...(some that I need to look into more, like sending expired coupons to soldiers bc the base will let them use them-definitly need to check that out)

So, I have many more classes scheduled and I'm super exicted about them.  I can't wait to teach everyone how to save money for their family and look forward to the next few weeks.  Again I have to thank my BFF (who's name I did not say last time and got lectured on so, ERIN DAVIDSON) thanks for the encouragement and of course to my mom and my husband for keeping T-man entertained while I'm out "all hours of the night" ;)

Tomorrow is Wednesday so don't forget to pick up your Marshfield Mail!  Still waiting to hear about the deals and steals everyone got this weekend (if I judge by the silence here I'm saying that NO ONE got a good deal, so please prove me wrong).  Planning to do Match-up's tomorrow around lunch time (as long as I get my coupons cut and organized today)!! 

Sunday Shopping

So, like I do just about every Sunday I attended Sunday morning Walgreens service for my weekly shopping worship.  I was able to.fellowship with other shoppers, here testimonials on savings and pray over lost coupons.  I left feeling invigorated and fueled for the week to come, (and then I left to attend church in Elkland and really worship God, my father.) 

This of course is just a silly comparison but in some ways the couponing community is similar to a church family (though I must say that if you put coupons above all else-lets talk BC I'd love to introduce you to Jesus my Savior-and yours too if you'll let him into your heart), in the coupon community its about SHARING the savings and holding your breath while waiting to see how good of a deal your friends get.  Its about helping new couponers learn the ropes and sharing items so everyone can get a deal.  Its about searching for lost coupons and truly understanding the sadness that comes when they aren't found.  Couponing is a hobby that saves families money and offers a way for many people to serve their community by donating their savings to local food pantrys or churches. 

I'd just like to encourage those of you who coupon to remember this, (especially in the heat of the moment when the deals are HOT) we are all in this together!!

Can't wait to hear about the deals everyone got this week!! Please feel free to post comments here or on my Facebook page, One Brand's Savings.

Also, how AWESOME was it that Walgreens had the Kansas City paper?!?! Woot!!

Walgreens Match-Ups for 8/7 thr. 8/13

Ok everyone, sorry this is late-I intended to do match-ups for dollar general last night but I taught coupon class and we started late, therefore got finished late and well now it's Saturday afternoon and I'm going to just post Walgreen's and Dollar General together!  Happy shopping tomorrow, and while you out getting deals-don't forget to grab the paper!!

LOTS OF FREEBIES TOMORROW!!!

Dollar General (THIS SALE ENDS TOMORROW-again, sorry for posting late...)
Degree 2.50, use 0.75/1 and makes it 1.75 each.

Air Wick Ultra on sale for $4.00 and I used the $4.00/1 starter kit (wasn't sure I'd be able to but...) it worked and it was FREE!!

Resolve is 2.50 and use the 0.75/1 and it's 1.75 each.

Gillette is $3.00 and use the 3/2 and it makes one of them FREE!!!

Oral-B Indicator Toothbrush is 1.50 and use the 0.75/2 makes them 1.13 each.

Walgreen's (sales starts tomorrow but goes all week)
School Supply Sale:
Crayons $1.00 and get a $1RR and they are FREE!!  (Do multiple transactions if you want more than one to make sure you get all your RR!)

Folders (not pronged) $0.09

Printer Paper $1.99

Scissors $0.29

Divider Tabs (pick these up if you are in the processes of creating a coupon binder!) $0.39!!

Markers $0.99

Folders (with prongs) 6 for $1.00

Other Items:
Purex 1.99 (according to the ad, they are expecting a $0.50 Q) with the Q makes it $1.49 (either way this is  a GREAT deal!!)

Skinny Cow Candy 2/5 use 2 $1.00/1 (MF Q) and one $1.00/1 (store Q) makes them 2/$2.00!!!

Nature Valley Granola Bars 2/5 use the $0.75Q and makes them 2.12 each

Fiber One Bars 2/5 use 2 $0.40/1 makes them 2.10 each

Ziplock Bags 2/4 and use the $1.00/2Q and makes them 2/$3.00 or $1.50 each

Glad Sense and Spray $6.99 with $1RR makes it $5.99 and use the $2.00/1 Q from www.coupons.com and makes it $3.99

Duracel Batteries $2.99 and use the $0.75/1 makes them $2.24

Tresemme is 4/$15.00 with a $5RR makes them 4/$10.00, there was a coupon in the paper for $1.00 off of one Tresemme (1 Q for shampoo or conditioner and 1Q for styling product, you could use up to 4 of these and make it 4/$6.00 or $1.50 each!!

Gillette Razor is still on sale for $9.99 with a $4RR, if you still have the $4.00/1 Q this razor is only $1.99.  (This was the sale last week too)

Venus Razor is also on sale for $9.99 with a $4RR, there is a coupon from last week where if you buy one REFILL you will get $5.00 off of a Venus refillable razor which would make the razor only $0.99 (but you have to buy the cartridges for this deal and I don't think there are any coupons for cartridges this right now...if it makes it easier think of it like this-if you buy the cartridges you pretty much get the razor FREE!!!)

Schick Hydro cartridges are$8.49 with a $2.50RR makes them $5.99 and use the $2.00/1 makes them only $3.99

Huggies Wipes refill bag is $5.99 and there is a $2.00 STORE Q in the booklet makes them $3.99

Colgate Toothpaste or Tooth Brushes 2/$6.00 with a $4RR makes them 2/$2.  If you use the $0.75Q and the $0.50Q makes them 2/$0.75 or $0.37 each!!!  If you need a toothbrush you the tooth brush Q and get them for $0.42 each (if you use one Q for toothpaste and one for the toothbrush!) This is a great deal!!!!

Again, lots of great deal and freebies available!!  Happy shopping and as always let me know about your deals and steals.  Feel free to post comments here or on my facebook page (pictures welcome on FB too)

Better Late Than Never, Match-ups for 8/3/11 through 8/9/11

Yes, I've been slow this week, but I'm totally off routine between my Uncle getting married and work being a little different this week (had to go to Seymour today for WIC) so, my whole schedule is totally off whack, but I've finally gotten the Grocery Store match-up's done.

Price Cutter
Yoplait Yogurt $0.49 per cup, use either the $0.40/6 (makes them $0.35 each) or the $0.50/8 (makes them $0.36 each).

Oscar Mayer Bologna $0.99.

Ground Chuck 1.98 per pound

Sweet Onions $0.88 each

General Mills Cereal Bars 2/$4 and use the 0.50 Q makes them 2/3 or $1.50 per box! (this Q is from a few weeks ago but there is a one available at www.coupons.com)

Nature Valley Granola Bars 2/$5 and use the $0.75/2 Q and makes them $2.12 per box (this is also an older Q, but there is one available at www.coupons.com)

Coke products are 3/$11 with the in ad coupon (on back page of ad).  (This is one dollar CHEAPER then Summer Fresh this week)

Summer Fresh
Sweet Corn 4/$1

Pork Tenderloins are B1G1!!

Pillsbury 4 packs are only $0.98 (I think this is SATURDAY ONLY)

Fritos are 2/$5 and if you are registered for the store card and e-mail you should have a coupon for $1/2 which will make them just $2 each!  (make sure to print the coupon before you go)

Best Choice mac n' cheese is just $0.99 with your Summer Fresh Savers Card!!!!

Also this month there is a $3 off when you spend $30, so make sure you print your coupon Hot Sheet from your e-mail!
(If you aren't signed up for Summer Fresh's e-mail you need to because each month they send out a sheet of coupons, last month they had a coupon for 1 carton of FREE eggs!!)

Harter House
Pork Shoulder B1G1!!

10 pack of pre-made Beef Patties for $5.99 (makes the patties only 0.59 each!)

Cascade Action Packs $3.99 and use the $1/1 Q from this months P & G insert, makes it $2.99

Oscar Mayer Hot Dogs only $0.98!!

Hamburger Helper Twin Packs are $1.99 and use the old $0.75/3 makes them $0.87 for each box since they are TWIN packs.  If you don't have that Q there is one available at www.coupons.com for $0.80/4 which makes them $0.89 per box.

So, there you have it, the match-ups for Summer Fresh, Price Cutter, and Harter House for this week.  Good luck, I hope you find some good deals!  As always feel free to post a note and let me know what you get, or post on my facebook page!!

Tomorrow I'm going to try and post some match-ups for this weeks Dollar General Ad because it looks like there are going to be a few good scores there! :)

Expiration Dates

Well friends, the beginning of the new month is a bitter sweet time; it's bitter sweet because while it marks the new edition of the P & G Brand Saver insert (sometimes I ask myself, is my life that boring that I get excited for new coupon inserts?) but it also marks the end of the previous month and that usually means expiration dates.  And no, I don't mean the expiration dates on your milk jugs I mean expiration dates for your coupons.

I know that it sounds like a SIN to let a coupon expire without using it, but I'm here to tell you that it's OK (though very heart wrenching) to let your coupons expire and to (don't shoot me) THROW THEM AWAY!  The main point here is this: Just because you have a coupon, doesn't mean you have to use it.  If the item the coupon is for doesn't go on sale before it expires and it isn't something you NEED, then it's probably not going to save you much money just to use the coupon because you have it.  So, wait for the sale, if it doesn't come and the coupon expires IT'S OK!!  (Of course if the item is something you NEED and the sale never comes and it's a GOOD coupon ie: a high value coupon, or your store will double it) then go ahead and make the purchase with the coupon if it fits your budget and is on your grocery list.

At the beginning of each month (I usually do it at the same time I cut my new P & G coupons) go through your binder, or file folder, (or if your old school, your envelope LOL) and clear out all the expired coupons.  (Go ahead, cry a little if you need to; it IS sad to see the savings go into the trash, but just tell yourself it isn't saving if it isn't on sale) and then look at all the brand new coupons your about to cut-this will usually cheer me up :)!

Tomorrow I will be posting the store match-up's for Harter House, Price Cutter, and Summer Fresh.  I hope everyone remembered to pick up their Marshfield Mail today, if not you still have time!

Walg's Trip 8/31/11

(First I have to appologize for not posting match-ups but there wasn't anything better than the ones I already posted on Saturday, and on the back page of the Walgreens ad, the coupon match-ups for the P & G coupons were already on there)

Well, after checking out the amazing coupons in the paper, I did a Wags trip on Sunday afternoon.

I scored a really great deal at Walgreens!  I only spent 21.47 and took home two bags full of goodies, including 10 folders and two pairs of scissors for my coupon class!

I wanted to make sure to remind everyone that Today and Tomorrow are the only two days to get your good deal on Hamburger and Whole chicken Fryers at Summer Fresh (don't forget there is also the $10 off of $50 coupon on the bottom of the Circular)

I hope everyone has gotten their coupons clipped (I haven't, I plan on doing that today during my lunch hour) and I can't wait to hear about any awesome deals you scored this weekend!