One Cheap Chick

Creamy Lemon Veggies & Rice

2009-06-08T17:15:00.004-05:00

This stuff is an awesome meal for vegetarians or side dish for meat-lovers. I used zuchinni, squash, and bell peppers, but use what sounds good to you.

Creamy Lemon Veggies and Rice

1-2 cups fresh mixed vegetables
1 cup brown rice, cooked
1 oz. cream cheese
1/2 c. milk
1 tbsp green onions, chopped
1/2 or 1 tsp. lemon pepper seasoning
Parmesan Cheese (optional)

Saute veggies with nonfat cooking spray, remove from heat. In same skillet, melt cream cheese-then add milk and seasoning to your taste. Add rice and veggies, then heat through. Before serving garnish with green onions and cheese.

This makes 1 HUGE meal or 2 sides.

Tuna Patties w/ Yogurt Dill Sauce

2009-03-23T18:26:00.004-05:00

Salmon in a can is disgusting. Period. I was going to make these making salmon and almost threw up from the smell. So I threw it down the disposable and got a can of tuna instead. Amazing!

The best part is the sauce. If you make the patties you have to make the sauce to go on top.

Tuna Patties

1 sm. can tuna, drain well

1 egg white

1/2 c. wheat bread crumbs

Generous dash of each- Lemon Pepper seasoning, Dill, Garlic Salt

Combine all the stuff and form into 4 patties. "Fry" in cooking spray until lightly brown on both sides.

Each patty is 61 calories and 1 gram fat

Lemon Dill Sauce

1/2 cont. fat free plain yogurt

Juice of 1/2 lemon

Dash of dill

Pinch of sugar

Combine all and top on tuna patties.

I ate mine with a baked sweet potato and spinach salad. Yum-O!

Dollhouses are not for dolls........

2008-12-31T16:24:00.002-06:00

The girlies got this gorgeous dollhouse from Uncle Duane & Aunt Misty for Christmas this year. They also got their daddy to let them have a kitty as long as they name it Galyeon. (sigh)

Well the girls decided that Gal needed a home more than their dolls did. For a better part of the day baby Gal has spent his time in this house, (and the roof too until they figured out a way to reach him).

Luckily he is a good sport and we have minor scratches.

$20.57 at Country Mart

2008-12-31T10:48:00.004-06:00

Just a pic. I must go rescue our new baby kitten. The girls seem to think he's not an animal at all, but a thing that must live in their new dollhouse.

Total after coupons $20.57
and I'm adding this to Jan. totals since it will all be cooked in the new year.

I got to shop at Aldi's! Yay!!

2008-12-18T16:20:00.006-06:00

We went to see one of my MIL's this Saturday and she lives where there is an Aldi's! Yay! I wasn't able to get everything on my list for the next 2 weeks that I'll be off with the kiddo's, but I got a lot of it. Here is the pic of Aldi's. We spent $48.26.

We still have a few things to get from Wal-mart for some of the yummy appetizers I'm making for 2 Christmas get together s we're going to.

Country Mart Deals

2008-12-10T17:01:00.003-06:00

My cashier did not seem too happy about the great deals I got, but oh well. I had saved the Vlasic pickle coupon a while back since it was a PDF file and I've gotten to use plenty of them this month.

7 Vlasic pickles on sale $2 - 7/$1 MC doubled = FREE
3 Betty Crocker cookie pouches $2.19 - 3/.75 MC doubled = .69 each
Orville Redenbacher Popcorn $2.99 -$1 MC doubled =.99
Kotex pantyliner $1.09 - .75MC doubled = FREE
Kotex pads $2.85 - $1 doubled = .85
Pillsbury cresent rolls $2.29 - .25 Mc =$1.79 (not great, but I needed it and still cheaper than store brand)
Best Choice cream cheese sale .99

Total before coupons -$33.58
Total after $7.49

Wags Deals

2008-12-10T16:56:00.003-06:00

2 Sure Deodorant on sale $2.50 -$1.50 each WC then -2/$1 MC =FREE
2 Arm and Hammer Laundry Detergent $6.99 each -store coupon for each at $1.99 then -2/$1 MC = .99 each
3 toys for 13.98 (this was a filler and Christmas present)
Ornament 1.99 (filler and present for Secret pal)

Total before coupons $38.01
Total after coupons $21.40
Total after Wags gift card $17.98
- $5 RR towards next purchase =$12.98 OOP

My Goodwill Find

2008-12-09T16:14:00.003-06:00

On a whim I decided to go to Goodwill before picking up oldest DD from school. I wandered over to the purses and found this! A Genna de Rossi handbag! These normaly sell at JCP for $60-$85. It is the exact size and color I wanted too. It didn't have tags but it is in perfect condition. No kidding this is exactly what I asked for for Christmas. And the best part-the price tag $6!

Saved $24 at Wal-Mart

2008-12-07T18:13:00.006-06:00

Okay we got a few "extras" that we probably didn't need, but my DH eats 2-3 snacks after the girls and I go to bed and can't seem to break this habit so we go thru a lot of snack stuff.

Here's what I got with coupons

3 Nestle Hot Chocolate $1.00 -3/.50 MC =.50 each
7 Vlasic pickles & peppers $1.00-$1.99 - 7/$1 MC =Free-.99 each
5 pkg Ouchless hair ponys $2.28 - 5/$2 MC =.28 each
3 Johnson buddies .97 -$3/3 MC=Free
SBDiet Pizza $2.50- 1.00Mc =$1.50
Yoplait Yogurt drink $2.50 - $1.50 MC= $1.00
STeamer corn $1 - .60 MC =.40 -thats cheaper than canned!
Energizer batteries $6 -$1MC =$5 not cheap but we really needed them

Other stuff we got that was not on sale-Ramen noodles, bread, Pop tarts, carrots, canned raviolis & spaghetti o's, ketchup, Qtips, Oatmeal creme pies.

Total before coupons $60.71
Total after coupons $36.79

This will defiantly make us thru the week and then some

Menu Monday

2008-12-06T20:17:00.007-06:00

I am so busy this week, but I'm trying to cook anyway. Monday I have a school board meeting, and Tuesday is a ball game and we still are trying to decide if we're going out of town for a birthday party or staying because of a big church event. Argh! Well, anyway here it is.

Breakfasts- Cereal w/ cold milk
Homemade Zucchini Chocolate Chip Bread
Bagelfuls
Oatmeal w/ milk

Lunch-Me-Frozen Dinners
DH-Ramen, Mac n Cheese cups, or Soup
DD- Peanut Butter sandwiches, Lunchables, or Hot dogs

Dinner- Sunday-Tater Tot Casserole
Monday-Ham, Bean, Carrot Soup, Crackers, Cheese
Tuesday-Eat at Ballgame or sandwiches on the way there
Wednesday-Stromboli, Sweet corn
Thursday- Roasted White & Sweet Potatoes w/ onions, Broccoli w/ Cheesy Rice
Friday & Saturday- Going out of town

Em's Birthday

2008-12-05T20:52:00.004-06:00

Here's the breakdown of costs for my daughter's 4th birthday party. We are expecting 40 adults and 15 kids. Our theme is Hannah Montana.

Invitations $1-Bought paper with a border at the Dollar Tree and printed them on my computer.

Location FREE-Our church's activity center

Decorations & Partyware $8- Some decorations were given to me by a friend, I bought balloons & streamers. I bought some plates, cups, etc at a garage sale & the rest at Dollar Tree.

Activities $16-Printed coloring sheets, played Pass the Microphone, and bought a pull string pinata.

Cake $7-Baked 2 cake mixes in star pan & iced them. Put 4 candles on top that spelled out her name.

Food $25- Crackers, cheese, & pepperoni tray, 2 kinds of chips & dip, Deviled eggs, Veggie tray, chocolate chip cookies, no-bake cookies, pop & juice

Favors $15- Girls got-personalized mixed CD, candy, Hannah Montana braclet, play dough, stickers. Boys got-pirate eye patch, kaladescope, magnifying glass, treasure map. Babies got- board book & fuzzy socks

Present $0-Since we spend so much on a party and she has lots of family & friends that give her gifts, we do not buy her one.

Total-$72

Homemade Birthday Cakes

2008-12-05T06:35:00.006-06:00

My daughters birthday party is this weekend. We do not spend a lot of money on parties, but we have a great time by making everything simple and homemade. I save the most money by making my children's birthday cakes. With a birthday cake running anywhere from $15-$40 it's easy to see how much money can be saved by making your own.

1st, I use a box mix & icing because I can't make a good cake. This costs me about $3. If you make lovely cakes, you might save even more money than I do. 2nd, you DO NOT have to be a great decorator to make a cake. This homemade cake website is very helpful for people who have never decorated a cake before or who are just looking for ideas.
3rd, If you decide that you absolutely can not decorate a cake then look at buying a cake kit. You can simple bake and ice a sheet cake and stick one on top. Most bakeries, (I get mine from Wal-Mart) will sell them for about $5 a piece.

Here are a few cake decorating tips:
-To get a smooth look dip a knife in hot water and run lightly over iced cake.
-Freezing a cake and brushing the crumbs off after will help your cake not to have crumbs in the frosting.
-Use a ziploc bag with the tip cut out to make simple lines.

At the most your homemade birthday cake will cost $8. Over the course of your child's life this would save you $216!

No matter what the cake looks like, your child will love it and you will feel good that you made it yourself.

Happy 4th Birthday to my Baby

2008-12-04T06:48:00.003-06:00

Birth
1 year
2 years
3 years
4!

Applesauce Oatmeal Bread

2008-12-04T06:42:00.002-06:00

I started buying applesauce in a big jar because it's cheaper and I use it in the place of oil when I make cakes, muffins or sweet bread. Well, I had some applesauce that I needed to use and found this recipe for Applesauce Oatmeal Bread.

I love using oatmeal in breads so I gave it a try and it was delicious. I also had got boxes of oatmeal packets for less than a dollar a while back so I had plenty to use. I used Quaker Simple Harvest Vanilla, Honey and Almond oatmeal. I doubled it and got 1 loaf, 24 mini muffins, and 6 regular size muffins out of it.

Give it a try!

Heritage Cookbook

2008-12-01T13:19:00.003-06:00

I greatly hope that my daughters will love to cook as much as I do. I am making a cookbook for each one of my girls with my recipes and recipes that I like. I'm including pictures and (my fav) side notes that tell why we like the dishes, that it's Daddy's favorite, or changes I made.
I'll put each page (printed off the computer, using Word) in a clear protector sheet, and in turn put that into a binder.
I'm also asking each grandma to contribute pages. When I finish I hope to have a cookbook that each one of my girls will treasure as much as I treasure them.
I encourage each of you to do the same for your children, no matter how young or old.

Menu Planning

2008-11-30T08:58:00.004-06:00

This week will be very busy with DD's birthday and party preparations for Saturday. I'll be doubling some things I cook and morphing them into new meals.

Sunday-Potluck at church-taking Scalloped Potatoes

Monday- Porcupine Meatballs, Brown Rice, California Veggie Mix in Cheese Sauce
*note-make extra meatballs and rice for Tues. and Fri. meal

Tuesday- Meatball Subs, Baked Tator Tots

Wednesday- Hamburger Helper, Cheesy Mashed Potatoes
*note- use precooked ground beef to save time

Thursday- Oldest DD turns 4! Go out and eat; her pick.

Friday-Turkey Enchiladas, Spanish Rice

Saturday- Sandwiches/Leftovers

$32.08 @ Country Mart

2008-11-21T16:45:00.003-06:00

My pantry and freezer were almost bare! Luckily my in-laws took the girls home after the Thanksgiving party so I could clean, do laundry, and go grocery shopping! Now , DH likes to go to Walmart when I go so I just went to Country Mart, then will hit Wal-mart after our date tonight. Yay!

My free or almost free items were (keep in mind, all my coupons were doubled)

Reynolds Oven Bags $1.98 -$1 MC=Free
3 Starkist Tuna Pouches $1.19 -3/$1 MC=Free
Crisco Cooking Spray 2.49 -$1 MC =.49
2 BC Frosting 1.50 each - 2/.55 MC =.40 each
2 Parkay Butter Quarters $1.28 -.75/2 =$1.06/2
Mrs. Cubitsons Croutons .88 each -B1G1 =.44 each
Keebler Crackers 2/$4 - $1MC = 2/$2
4 Pillsbury Crescent Rolls $1.50 each -4/.25 MC =$1 each

I also got 4 lbs of ground beef, a 6 lb roasting chicken, potatoes, celery, onions, and sugar.

Total before coupons $54.41
Total after coupons $32.08

Menu Planning

2008-11-16T09:16:00.005-06:00

Sunday- Mini Meatloafs, Mac n Cheese, Corn

Monday- Ham, Bacon, and Cheese Pie, Broccoli, Cauliflower, Carrots

Tuesday- Chicken Tenders, Scalloped Potatoes, Green Beans

Wednesday- Eat at Church

Thursday-Turkey Burgers with Homemade Hamburger Buns, French Fries

Friday-Egg & Sausage Biscuits, Cinnamon Rolls

Saturday- Rotisserie Chicken, Potato Wedges, Broccoli Pasta

Almost free @ Bath and Body

2008-11-16T08:41:00.003-06:00

My camera seems to have bitten the dust so here is a pic from Bath and Body Works website of what I got for FREE! I found a coupon, I think it was on MoneySaving Mom, that if you buy any product you get a Scentport or Wallflower kit free. So yesterday I bought I gift bag for $1.00 plus tax and got the Cinnamon & Clove Bud Scentport Starter kit free.
So now I guess I'm going to have to spend all the money I've been saving on a new camera!

25.50 at Walmart on nothing.

2008-11-15T08:01:00.002-06:00

No pic, but we went to Walmart last night to get milk and spent 25.50 on mostly junk. Here's what we got

4 bags chips
Butter
1 box candy
1 bottle tea
Goldfish crackers
Pickles
Turkey burgers -at least these were on clearance for $1.80 for 4

Homespun Haven

2008-11-13T16:01:00.004-06:00

Over on Monica's blog , she is hosting Making Your Home a Haven. I haven't the time to post lengthy posts on it every day, but I've participated in a abbreviated version.

Tidy- I straightened my pantry to store more great stockpiles!
Before
After
Clean- Did dishes, 2 loads laundry, sweep floors, picked up trash, and cleaned out my freezer. (hubby helped greatly on this one and I was shocked to find I have 14 bags of Steamfresh Vegetables! Guess I went overboard on those $1 off coupons ;)

Cared For- Lit candles all week to make our home smell good and feel cozy

Fun-Read books with the girls and planned a Family fun day on Saturday to Incredible Pizza, Krispy Kreme, and Build A Bear Workshop. Will post pics of that after.

Inviting & Giving- Plan to put together a Thanksgiving food basket for single, elderly person at church.

Thats about it! Hope your home is a haven.

All Things Thanksgiving!

2008-11-13T10:30:00.004-06:00

Thanksgiving is getting near! Here are some really great Thanksgiving themed things that I hope to get around to doing this year. The great thing about being a teacher is you get a whole week off!

These cute Pilgrims Hats are from Family Fun

These are filled with chocolate & peanut butter chips!

This handprint craft is perfect for small children.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

$9.49 at Country Mart

2008-11-12T16:34:00.003-06:00

2 Liter of Dr Pepper-on sale .99 each
2lb grapes-on sale 1.89
Michelina Lean Gourmet Frozen meals-on sale .77 each -$1/5 MC Doubled= .37 each
2 Bagelfuls-on sale $2 each -2 $1/1 MC doubled =FREE
Pillsbury Icing- 1.50
Red Gold Canned tomtoes-on sale $1 -2 B1G1=.50 each

Total before coupons $16.49
Total after coupons $9.49

Free website like Weight Watchers

2008-11-10T06:43:00.003-06:00

Spark People is a great, free, website to help people lose weight.

My favorite thing is the nutrition tracker. I use it to track exactly what I'm eating so I know if I'm staying within my calorie & fat range.

You can track my progress here.

Menu Planning Monday

2008-11-09T20:17:00.004-06:00

Sunday- Church Potluck, I made Chili Sweet Potatoes & they must have been good because they were all gone!
Monday- Whole wheat Spaghetti, Sun dried Tomato & Basil Sauce & Cheesy Bread
Tuesday- Santa Fe Popcorn Chicken Salad, Baked Potatoes
Wednesday- At church (mac n cheese, little smokies from what I hear!)
Thursday-Ham, Sweet & Spicy Sweet Potatoes, Sweet Corn
Friday- Hamburger Helper, French Fries
Saturday- Leftovers

Busy Day

2008-11-08T15:03:00.005-06:00

I had a lot planned to do today. Besides cleaning, mopping, and laundry, I have.......

Browned a pan of sausage, half to use today, half for another meal.

Made this coffee bean candle for my MIL using leftover bits of other candles & a pickle jar. Total cost was .83 for the coffee beans.

Made a Bubble Pizza using my homemade sauce, thanks to tomatoes from my mom.

Baked 3 loaves of Banana Zucchini Chocolate Chip Bread

Boiled a big pan of sweet potatoes to make Sweet & Spicy Sweet Potatoes for our church potluck tomorrow

Keep checking back to see what I get done!

Holiday Recipes

2008-11-07T06:42:00.003-06:00

I love to cook even more than usual around the holidays. Here are some recipes that I really want to try!

Spiced Sweet Potatoes (scroll down a little)

Bubble Pizza

Roasted Sweet Potatoes & Onions

Cheesey Bread (minus the olives. I had this at church one time & it was awesome. A friend made it and substituted pepperoni for the olives since she knew I was allergic)

Banana Zucchini Bread

Chicken Salsa Salad (to use up the free popcorn chicken & dressing I got recently)

Monkey Bread

Marble Buttermilk Pie

2008-11-04T11:20:00.005-06:00

Marble Buttermilk Pie

1/2 cup flour
2 1/2 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
6 eggs
1/2 cup melted butter
1 cup buttermilk
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups chocolate chips
2 unbaked pie shells

Place 1 c. each of chocolate chips in unbaked pie shells. Mix remaining ingredients well; pour into pie shells. Cover crust edges with foil to prevent burning. Bake at 375 for 45 to 60 minutes or until pies are set. Makes two pies.

Menu Tuesday!

2008-11-04T10:29:00.002-06:00

Sunday- ate at my moms- Ribs, Corn Casserole, Green Beans
Monday- Burritos & Cheese Nachos
Tuesday- Roast, Potatoes, Carrots, Marble Buttermilk Pie (recipe to follow)
Wednesday- Beef Stew, Cornbread, Cheese Sticks, Banana Pudding
Thursday-Sandwiches, Chips
Friday- Spaghetti, Green Beans, Garlic Bread
Saturday- Sloppy Joe Casserole, Green Peas

Halloween

2008-10-30T21:38:00.002-05:00

Little Mermaid

Ali Cat

I think they look great for homemade costumes.

Trick or Treat

Witch Hat Cookies

2008-10-28T16:38:00.002-05:00

Here's our trial run of the Witch Hat cookies for Emmy's school party. Take a chocolate cookie, (I used oreo halves), dab a little icing in the middle and stick a hershey kiss on it. Then take icing and pipe around and make a bow. They are so easy!

PS-ignore the dirty counter!

Chili Beans Recipe

2008-10-28T14:06:00.003-05:00

3 cups small red beans, rinsed
3 cups black beans, rinsed
1/2 onion, chopped
1/2 each green pepper, yellow pepper, and red pepper, chopped
1 beef bullion cube
2 tsp chili powder
1 can diced tomatoes
1 c. tomato juice
4 c. water

salt

Dump all ingredients in slow cooker. Cook on low 7-8 hours. I serve with sour cream, cilantro, cheese, & crackers!

Mission Trip

2008-10-28T13:51:00.004-05:00

Here are some pics from my recent trip to Leon, GTO in Mexico. I met some great people, bonded with some great people and the food was amazing! Check out Barb & Shawns website here for more on their mission.

Our group at a church overlooking Leon

Fixing lunch for the kids at the orphanage

GTO, Mexico

Menu Monday

2008-10-27T17:01:00.002-05:00

Sunday-Lasagna, Salad, Garlic Bread
Monday-Poppy Seed Chicken, Green Bean Casserole, Cresent Rolls
Tuesday- Chili Beans, Crackers, Cheese, Pickles
Wednesday- Eat at church
Thursday- Frito Chili Pies (with leftover chili beans)
Friday-out of town
Saturday-out of town

Pumpkin Carving

2008-10-25T18:45:00.003-05:00

They mostly played

Daddy & his girls

Mommy did all the work

Batty Pumpkin

2008-10-23T17:36:00.001-05:00

Menu Planning Monday

2008-10-21T13:47:00.003-05:00

Sunday-Was in Mexico! Had Tortas & Nachos

Monday-Flew home, had Chick Fil A on the way home.

Tuesday- Pizza and Cheese Breadsticks, (I have a coupon for a free one)

Wednesday-Eat at church

Thursday- Corn Dog Muffins, french fries

Friday- Stuffed Sausages, English peas

Saturday- Bacon, Eggs, Toast

Coupon Give Away

2008-10-21T13:33:00.003-05:00

I have to give away a slew of coupons. About $100 worth to be exact! All you have to do is leave a comment to enter & I'll pick a winner by Thursday at noon.
Be sure to check out my other posts!
Much Love
Carol

Menu Planning

2008-10-12T16:32:00.003-05:00

Sunday-Ate out

Monday-Chicken Pot Pie, Oatmeal Chocolate Cookies

Tuesday- Hamburger Helper, Corn

Wednesday- Saturday

I'm leaving to go on a mission trip to Mexico. My mom will have the girls, and DH is going out of town. Pray for us all to be safe!

Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

2008-10-11T19:28:00.002-05:00

I really wanted to buy some Kashi Dark Chocolate Oatmeal cookies, but it was $2.50 for only 8! So I bought some dark chocolate chips and decided to make some my self.

I found this recipe and they are wonderful!

The recipe makes 42 so cut in half or freeze half the batter like I did.

$1.89 at Country Mart

2008-10-10T16:35:00.003-05:00

I didn't buy a lot, but I got a great deal.

Fast Fixins Chicken sale 2/$4 -2/$1 MC doubled =FREE
Ronzoni Pasta $1.64 -$1 MC doubled =FREE
Farmland Sausage $1.25 -$1 MC doubled =FREE
Wheat bread $1.29

My total was $1.89. The cashier looked at my bags then looked at me and said wow. I love doubled coupons!

Walgreens Deals for Oct. 6-10

2008-10-10T16:27:00.003-05:00

1 Scrubbing Bubble sale 2.50 -$2 MC =.50
1 Fantastik Cleaner sale 2.50 -$1.50 MC=1.00
Glade Scented Candle Holder sale 3.99 -$2 MC=1.99
2 Glade Scented Gel Warmers 1.99 -B1G1 =1.99 for both
2 Glade Wisp Flamless Candles sale 5.99 -B1G1 = 5.99 for both

Total before coupons $29.37
Total after coupons $12.73

-$3 RR for Flamless candle
-$6 in rebates

= $3.73 for everything pictured! Awesome!

Sweet Moments

2008-10-10T06:44:00.003-05:00

This was taken about 6:30 am. Emmy was watching TV while I got ready for work, when the baby woke up crying. I took her in the living room and Emmy said give her to me. Al started to whimper when I walked away to which Emmy said "It's ok, big sissy will take care of you."
I love moments like that.

Cheesy Tuna Mac

2008-10-09T08:21:00.005-05:00

Cheesy Tuna Mac

1 box macaroni & cheese dinner

1 can tuna, drained

1 pkg frozen California Veggie Mix

1 can cream of mushroom soup

Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Boil macaroni in salted water 9-10 minutes or until al dente. Place Veggies in colander and pour macaroni over to drain & quick thaw the vegetables.

Return Veggies/macaroni to pot and add cheese mixture from box and 1/2 c. milk. The add mushroom soup and tuna. Pour into greased baking dish and bake 30 minutes or until heated thru.

Works for me Wednesday

2008-10-08T08:25:00.003-05:00

This is my 1st edition of Works for Me Wednesday sponsered by Shannon at Rocks in My Dryer.

One thing that works for my husband and I is the envelope system. I first learned about it at here. Here's the steps we take at the first of each month.

-Decide what we're going to spend in our catergories for the whole month. I only pay our bills from our checking account then everything else goes in our envelopes. My categories are

-Gas for Car

-Groceries, Diapers, & Household items

-Eating Out

-Entertainment

-Offering

-Gifts

-School (this covers field trips, lunch, etc for my daughter)

-Convience Store (my husband is addicted to going)

-Emergency

-Then we put the designated amount in each envelope. This means that I have to plan ahead if I want to buy something and I only can spend what I bring to the store which eleminates "extras"

-This has helped my husband and I cut our budget by about $700 a month.

Taco Soup

2008-10-07T17:27:00.001-05:00

Taco Soup

3 c. pinto beans, cooked (I use leftovers, but canned are fine too)

1 can black beans, rinsed & drained
1 can sweet corn
1 can diced tomatoes with peppers
1 envelope taco seasoning
1 envelope dry ranch dressing
extra jalapenos (if you like it spicy)

Combine all ingredients in big pot. Bring to boil, then reduce to low for about 20-30 minutes. This makes enough for about 3-4 people with good sized appetites so double it if you have more. I serve this with tortilla chips, sour cream, cheese, and limes.

Baked Macaroni & Cheese

2008-10-06T17:11:00.003-05:00

Baked Macaroni & Cheese Recipe

1 box macaroni noodles (I use whole wheat)
1 sm container (8 oz) sour cream
1 lb. shredded cheese, any flavor (cheddar & colby/swiss are our favorites)
1/2 c. milk

In big pot, cook macaroni noodles according to package directions. When done, drain and combine with sour cream, cheese, milk, and a little salt & pepper. Pour into 9 by 13 baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 400 degrees for 30-45 minutes, uncovering foil during the last 5-1o minutes. This makes enough for our family of 2 adults/2 kids to have as a hearty side, leftovers the next day for me, and I put a big dish in the freezer to have as a side another day.

Menu Monday

2008-10-05T08:38:00.007-05:00

Sunday- Enchilada Casserole, Refried Beans, Corn

Monday- Chicken Nuggets, Mashed Potatoes, Broccoli & Cheese

Tuesday- Bacon, Eggs, Biscuits

Wednesday- Eat at church

Thursday- Cheesy Tuna Mac & Corn on the Cob

Friday-Eat out

Saturday- Sandwiches or Leftovers

Walmart Date

2008-10-04T18:50:00.002-05:00

Hubby and I were restless so we decided to take the girls to Walmart, plus I had a few coupons that were expiring soon. The girls managed to get their daddy to spend some of his birthday money on new books, and I mamaged to get some good deals.

1 Tide travel pack-.97 (perfect for my trip to Mexico) -$1 MC
2 Green Giant Steamers $1.87 each -2/$1 MC
1 Febreeze Noticable Kit $5.97 -$5 MC =.97
1 Gillette Shampoo $2.00 -$2 MC=FREE
1 Betty Crocker Potatoes .78 each $1/2 = .56 for both

Total= $3.56 -not bad

Super Savings Saturday @ Wags

2008-10-04T11:26:00.003-05:00

Looking back at all the purchases I've made at Wags this week I probably could have done better, especially seeing other people's posts, but oh well. This was my last trip to Wags this week!
Transaction #1
3 Soaftsoap body wash on sale $3.49 -$1.00 WC=$2.49 each
Total - $8.31
-$4.50 RR
Total OOP=$3.81
Got $5 RR back

Trans #2-stuff we really needed
2 Cat food .79 each
Baby Wipes 2.99
Total-$4.98
Paid with $5 RR =FRee

So all pictured for $3.81 is not bad, still I feel like I can do so much better next time!

Frugal Friday

2008-10-03T18:43:00.005-05:00

In honor of Frugal Friday I'm sharing the apron I made today. I had been wanting to make one for a while now and I had the day off so after dropping Oldest DD off at school, Youngest DD and I went looking for fabric.

I bought enough to make 5 aprons at the cost of $8.47 for matierals. I did not have a pattern, I just cut a kind of U shape for the arms and sewed hems, then sewed ribbon on the neck and sides. For some reason, my photos of the finished product are not loading, but you can see below how I cut it.

The cost of each apron is roughly $2 and I plan to make some for Christmas gifts.

Super Savings Saturday (kind of)

2008-10-03T12:39:00.002-05:00

No this is not Saturday, but it feels like it to me since I'm usually working on Friday. I found this $5 off 20 coupon for Walgreens so I just had to go back, and I printed more TP & shampoo coupons. Here's what I got

6 pkgs Quilted Northern Double TP $4.00 each -6/$1 WC then -6/$1 MC = $12 for 72 rolls
2 Pert Plus $3.49 each -2/$2.50 ES then -2/$1 MC=FREE

My Fillers-

Oral B toothbrush-$4.49
3 Diet Coke-3/$4
2 MnM-2/$1
3 Assorted Toys $6.98 each B2G1 Free

Total before any Coupons-$58.48
Total after coupons-$39.48
-$5 off $20 = $34.98
-$4.50 RR =$30.48 OOP

Now I've got TP for about 6 months & Christmas gifts for 2 kids on my list!

My first bread

2008-10-01T21:59:00.003-05:00

So I'd been agonizing over baking my own bread. I'm not a great baker and I've wondered if it really is cheaper than storebought. I decided if I did make my own bread that I would do it with a breadmachine since I work full time.

When I picked up DD from my grandmother-in-law's today I asked her if I could borrow her's to see if I really liked it. She said I could have it! What a blessing. She asked if I would bring her a loaf now and again, and I said sure.

Now I did not have a lot of time to look for a recipe since we had church tonight, but I wanted to try it so we could have our first loaf tonight. I went with one of the first ones I found. Here's the recipe.

http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Light-Oat-Bread/Detail.aspx

Now here's what we thought

Pro's- The flavor was great! I added about 1/2 tsp each of garlic, rosemary, and onion flakes. It was still warm when we got home so the butter melted perfectly. The texture on the inside was also tender & moist

Con's- The crust was very hard. I did put it on the medium setting, but I had a hard time cutting it. It also did not rise to the top. The breadmachine setting was on 1.5 lb loaf and it only rose about 3/4 the way.

I liked it and will try again, but I think I might look for a softer outside & taller loaf!

Free Coupons! Over $120 worth!

2008-10-01T21:54:00.003-05:00

This is my first giveaway. I have been saving all the coupons I don't use and now there are over $120 dollars worth of them. These are newer coupons from the last 2 Sunday's paper. All you have to do to be eligible is read one of my posts, give me a comment, and I'll pick a winner by noon on Friday. Good Luck!

$7.34 OOP @ Walgreens!

2008-10-01T17:00:00.002-05:00

I thought I'd run to Walgreens before picking up Em from school and it was a great trip, plus I got a really nice cashier which is always a bonus.

2 pkg Quilted Northern Toliet Paper on sale $4 each -$2 Oct. ES -2/$1 MC=$2 each
2 Pert Plus Shampoo on sale $3.49 -$2.50 each Oct. ES-2/$1 MC=FREE
2 Quaker Quick Oats B1G1 Free $2.79 -2/$1 MC= .79 for both!
Sweet n Low B1G1 Free $2.49 -2/.35 MC= .89 each

Now I had to have fillers because Walgreens reqires you to have the same number of items as coupons so I got

Bag of Hairbow $2

For my treasure box at school-

Crazy straws .49
Halloween Tattoos 2/$1
Halloween Puzzle .34

Total after coupons $12.56
Used $5.22 from gift card from rebates
Total OOP-$7.34

A day in the life of a working mom

2008-10-01T08:54:00.003-05:00

6:20-Wake up & get dressed for work
6:40-Eat breakfast
7:00-Wake the baby up, put her in car seat, leave house
7:15-Leave baby at babysitters
7:20-Arrive at work, get papers ready for the day
7:40-Students arrive in my classroom
8:15-Start handwriting
9:00-Phonics
10:15-Spelling
10:45-Lunch & Recess
11:30-Reading
1:00-Planning Period, yeah!
2:10-Math
2:45- School's out
3:00-Pick up baby from babysitter
3:30-Pick up oldest DD from school
3:45-Arrive home, give snacks, computer time for mom
4:30-Do housework, make lunches for tomorrow
5:30-Start supper, play with girls while it's cooking
6:00-Hubby is home, eat dinner
6:30-Girls bath
6:45-I take shower
7:00-Watch T.V
8:30-Read books to kids & baby to bed
9:30-Oldest DD & I to bed

Our Favorite Cookie

2008-09-30T21:54:00.005-05:00

I'm trying to cook more things homemade, starting with cookies. I adapted this recipes from the back of a chocolate chip bag to make it healthier. Try this first

Oatmeal Squash Cookies

1 c. all purpose flour

1 1/4 c. oats (I use the instant kind)

1 tsp salt

1 tsp baking soda

1 stick butter, softened

1/2 c. pureed squash ( I make my own, but you can use baby food or applesauce)

2 eggs

1 tsp vanilla

1/2 c. granulated sugar

1/2 c. brown sugar

1/2 c. M n M candies

Preheat oven to 350. Grease cookie sheets. Mix flour, oats, salt & baking soda, then fold in remaining ingrediants. Drop by tablespoon fulls on cookie sheet and bake 10- 15 minutes. Yields 3 dozen.

This is just one variation. Try chocolate chips, raisins, peanut butter, white chocolate chips & nuts, cranberries, or just plain. My kids love them and never know they have a vegetable in them! My next homemade tackle will be bread. If you know a good, easy starter recipe, let me know.

2008-09-30T17:35:00.002-05:00

I have got exactly $100 to spend on groceries, household products, and diapers for the month of October. Talk about a scary month (ha ha) I will be gone to Mexico for 1 week though on a mission trip so Rocky will be eating out of the pantry and freezer, & the girls will be with my mom. We have enough groceries to make it until the 20th I think so we should be good. We'll see!

Free Pert Plus Shampoo

2008-09-30T17:27:00.004-05:00

Pert Plus in on sale at Walgreens for $3.49. In the October Easy Saver is a coupon for $2.50 off a bottle. Then use the $1.00 off coupon from recent inserts to get it FREE!

Menu Planning Monday

2008-09-28T21:27:00.006-05:00

Sunday-Taco Soup (made from leftover beans), Tortillas, Cheese

Monday- Eat at DH grandmas for his Bday

Tuesday-Chicken & Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans

Wednesday- Eat at church before services

Thursday- Porcupine Meatballs, Brown Rice, Peas

Friday-Meatball Subs (from Thursday's meal), chips, pickles, cinnamon rolls

Saturday-Homemade Macaroni & Cheese & BBQ Weiners

Dessert for DH birthday

2008-09-28T13:12:00.002-05:00

These are so yummy, I just had to share the recipe. I add chocolate chips to the filling in mine. DH can't wait to eat them tomorrow!

http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Cream-Cheese-Squares/Detail.aspx

2008-09-28T09:03:00.001-05:00

Just thought that I'd share the book I'm reading for my Wednesday night class.

$91.49 @ Country Mart & Walmart. Set for 2 weeks

2008-09-26T20:42:00.002-05:00

Wow, this looks like lots of groceries, and it is because it will last us 2 weeks, but somehow I feel there should be more. I did splurge on a few things & bought things I don't normally buy (more on that later) First here are the good deals I got

Walmart-
2 South Beach Diet Frozen Pizzas $2.67 -2/$2 coupons = .67 each
24 pk Nestle Bottled Water $3.88 -1/$1 coupon=$2.88
Coalgate toothbrush .88 -1/$1 coupon =FREE
3 Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls $1.46 -3/$1 coupons= .46 each
3 Green Giant Steamer Frozen Veggies $1.87 each -3/$1 coupon= .87 each ( I could have gotten the plain ones cheaper, but I really wanted to try the cheesy varieties.)

Country Mart-
Farmland Bacon $2.50 -$1 doubled=.50
Farmland Sausage $2.99 -$1 doubled=.99
Farmland Lunchmeat $2.89 -$1 doubled =.89
2 Ronzoni Pasta Meals $2.67 each -2/$1 doubled =.67 each
2 Easy Mac Cups .95 each -2/$1 doubled =FREE
4 Quaker Oatmeal boxes $2.50 each -4/$1 doubled = .50 each!
2 Kotex $2.84 each -2/$1 doubled = .84 each

Now for the things I don't usually/rarely buy that spiked my bill

Cat Litter -$7.46
Pullups-$8.99
Stuff to fix Guacamole & salsa for church sunday night-$8.30
New cash organizer -$5.88
Fixings for Hubby's birthday dessert & razors for gift-$8.30

Total of Extras-$38.93 -ugh that kills me! But the cats & kid need to pee, got to bring food for church, and the hubby wants dessert for his bday.

2008-09-22T19:07:00.004-05:00

This is m first time participating in Menu planning Monday sponsered by http://orgjunkie.com/ . I keep a monthly calendar on my fridge with a list of what I have to fix on the back.

Breakfast-I leave at 7:00 am to go to school so I either take cereal or a breakfst bar with me. Youngest DD eats at the babysitters & DH & oldest DD are on their own since they don't wake up till 7:30. He usually gives her cereal or frozen waffles for breakfast.

Lunch-Rocky eats a sandwich every day, I either take Lean Cuisines, leftovers, or eat at school, Oldest DD takes a sandwich or Lunchable, and Youngest DD eats at the babysitters

Dinner- Sunday-Leftovers & Clean Freezer
Monday-Spaghetti, Sauce, Garlic Crescent Rolls
Tuesday-Shepards Pie ( I h ave to work a football game so this will be in the fridge for DH to heat up. It's not my favorite so I don't mind missing it)
Wednesday-Eat at church (It's my week to cook & I'm fixing Pigs-in-blanket, hasbrown casserole, salad, & Sopapilla cheesecake for about 50 ppl.)
Thursday-Pinto beans, fried potatoes, cornbread
Friday & Saturday- Will be going out of town

Sunday's Verse

2008-09-21T08:55:00.001-05:00

I called upon the Lord in distress: the Lord answered me, [and set me] in a large place. The Lord [is] on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?Psalm 118:5-6

$22 left for the month in groceries :(

2008-09-20T08:40:00.002-05:00

I didn't do so hot shopping yesterday. I had to buy diapers & cat food which was $13 at Walmart. And we were out of ground beef and pop so I spent $11 at Country Mart including Vlasic pepper rings for .29 & 2 pkgs hot dogs for .59. I'm taking the girls to have pictures made at Walmart today so that will be $4.99 plus tax. Here's our menu for today

Breakfast-Scrambled Egg Sandwiches
Lunch-Bierocks, Cheese, & Steamed Peas
Dinner- Leftovers (meaning we need to clean out the freezer)

Walgreens for September 14th-19th

2008-09-14T15:04:00.003-05:00

2 Coalgate Maxfresh toothpaste on sale 2.99 each - $2.00 off each Walgreens coupon stacked with 1/$1 & 1/.75 coupons = .25 for both!

Glade scented candle $1.99 -1/$1 coupon -$1 rebate =FREE

Glade Scented Oil Warmer $3.99 -1/$4 coupon -$1 rebate = FREE

2 Glade Classics Warmer $1.99 each -B1G1 coupon -$2 rebate = FREE

2 Glade Scented refills $1.99 each -B1G1 coupon -$2 rebate = FREE

Twin pack Lady Speed Stick $3.75 -$2 Wal coupon -1/$1 MC = .75 for both!

Hannah Montana Water Mix In- $2.00-not on sale

Total OOP after rebates =$3.00! for all this stuff.

$9 @ Country Mart & Walgreens! WOW!

2008-09-11T18:54:00.002-05:00

All of this for $9.00! I'm so excited!

1st-Walgreens
2 boxes South Beach Snack Bars-on sale 2/$5 used 2/$2 coupons

Total-$1.45 (and I paid with a gift card)

2nd- Country Mart

Hot Dog Buns-on sale $1.05
2 pkgs Country Gravy- on sale 2/.79
2 Bertolli Pasta Sauce-on sale 2.29 each used 2/$1 coupons-doubled
Old El Paso Dinner Kit-on sale $2.00
Old El Paso Refried Beans-on sale $1.00-used $1/2 coupon-doubled
4 Crescent Rolls-on sale 2/$4-used 4/$1 coupons-doubled
Lean Cuisines-B1G1 free-used 2/$1 coupons-doubled

Total- $7.51
My receipt said I saved $18.00 or 74%. Wow! That still leaves us $92.49 for the rest of the month & we've got enough groceries still for about 12 days. Thanks to moneysavingmom.com for the tips!

$4 groceries at Country Mart!

2008-09-07T20:28:00.003-05:00

We have a local grocery store that doubles up to $1.00. Most of my internet coupons say DO NOT DOUBLE so I wasn't sure if they would. I decided it was worth a try and guess what? It WORKED!

3 Diet Dr Pepper 2 Liters- on sale .79 each
3 Birds Eye Frozen Peas-on sale .88 each used $1/3 doubled
3 Betty Crocker Muffin Mixes- on sale .79 each used 3 .45 off coupons that were doubled
1 Yoplait Yogurt- on sale $2 used $1 coupon that was doubled
1 Fast Fixins Chicken Patties on sale $2 used $1 off coupon doubled (I would have got more but they were out)

Grand Total was $4.06! Wow! I can't wait to go back with my BC Potato coupons & the Pillsbury coupons.

$7 at Walgreens

2008-09-07T17:22:00.003-05:00

This trip didn't turn out quite as good as I expected (I was hoping to make money off it) but it is still good for $7.00.

4 bags Chex Mix on sale for .99 had 2/$1 coupons & 2/.50 coupons
Aluminum Foil 2 for $1 on sale
Robittusun Cough Syrup on sale $3.99 had $3 off 1 coupon
Crest Pro Health Mouth wash $4.49 - $4.49 RR = FREE!
Simple Sleep Tylenol $3.49 had $1 off Wal coupon stacked w/ $2 off MC
Dora Lunch box reg. $9.99 marked down to $2.49.

I plan on going back to get more cough syrup even though it's not free it's a good deal at .99 a bottle. And the Progressi soup is 3/$4 + I have a $1.10/1 coupon. Will post this transaction later. And I may get more aluminum foil

Walgreens this week

2008-07-12T12:08:00.003-05:00

Fiber One Cereal -Buy One Get One -$4.49 for 2 boxes
Ziploc Bags-on sale 2 for $5
One Candy-.59

Used 2 Fiber One Coupons for $1.00 each
Used 2 $1.00 off Ziploc bags
Used $5 off next purchase from previous diaper deal

I paid $2.24 for it all!

Used

Mail Check from yesterday & today!

2008-07-11T13:57:00.002-05:00

I love getting free stuff. This is my loot from yesterday & today, courtesey of www.freegrabber.com & www.featurefamilyfilms.com

Sample of Simple Harvest Oatmeal & coupon for $1 off
Sample of Multi grain Cherrios
Best of Willie Nelson CD
Sample of Gillette body wash
Stripes card-for every $100 you spend at TGIF you get a coupon for a free item.
2 DVD's-The Secret Garden & Princess & the Pea from Feature family films

Deals at Target

2008-07-08T17:47:00.002-05:00

General Mills cereal 4 for $9-used 2/$1 off coupons, 1/.75 off, & 1/.55 cents off coupon so each box was about $1.42

Coalgate Total $2.48-used Target $1.00 off coupon with MC for $1.50 off so the toothpasate was free plus .02 overage

Dora Braclets, Earrings, & Hairclips marked $1.00 each, on sale 75% off making them .25 each. I got themto use as favors for my youngest daughters birthday party.

I also got a trial size Johnson's baby wash for free that I forgot to put in the pic & a pair of black dress shoes for my oldest for $4.98.

90% off at Bath & Body Works

2008-07-03T11:37:00.003-05:00

Ok, so I didn't actually pay for any of this stuff, my mom did on her recent trip to see me & the girls, (thanks mom) But it is still a deal worth mentioning. Bath & Body Works has select items marked down 50, 75 & even 90%.

The lotions are origanaly marked $4.00 each-on sale for .40 cents each!
Lip Balm marked $4.00 each-on sale $1.00 each
Tinted Lip Tube marked $7.50-on sale $2.00

I love to give "just because" gifts. These are perfect.

Walgreens Diaper Deal #2 & #3

2008-06-30T21:26:00.002-05:00

On the right is my 2nd Diaper transaction today.

3 Walgreens Diapers on sale $5.99 each
-used 3/$2.50 coupons off
-got $5 RR

= $7.09 after tax for 3 pkgs diapers

On the left is 3rd transaction

2 Walgreens Pullups on sale $5.99 each
1 Passport Photo-$7.99 (For our misson trip to Mexico later this year)
1 Passport Kit(toothbrush holder, case, passport holder, 2 shampoo containers)-$9.99

-used $5 off 2 coupon for the Pullups
-used Coupon for free Passport kit w/ purchase of photos
-used $5 in RR

Total after tax $12.85

Walgreen Diaper Deal

2008-06-30T16:43:00.003-05:00

Just got back from trying theWalgreens Diapers deal, and it was great. I'm going back tonight when hubby gets off work to get some more. Here's how it worked

3 packs Walgreens Premium Diapers-on sale $5.99 each

4 packs DeerfieldShredded Cheese (8 oz.) $2.59 each

Used $5 off 2 packs coupon from Easy Saver cataloge(got a great surprise when the register took $2.50 off my 3rd pack!!!)

Used 2- 2 for $3 coupon for cheese making it $1.50 each

Recieved $5 RR-(like a gift card for newbies)

Total I will have spent- $14.00 for 3 packs diapers and 4 packs cheese.

Veggie Lasagna

2008-06-30T12:39:00.004-05:00

Lunch was great today. I had half a pan of veggie lasagna leftover from last night's church gathering, (made with fresh veggies from my garden) so we had that, salad, & I tried a new recipe, Biscuit Sticks. Here's my recipe for Veggie Lasagna, (with no cheese for vegans) & the link for the Biscuit Sticks (I added garlic salt to mine.) With everything the meal cost about $1.00 per plate

Veggie Lasagna

1 zuchinni, diced
1 yellow squash, diced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 tsp chopped garlic
1 can crushed tomatoes
6 oven ready lasagna noodles, (I soak mine in hot water)
1/4 c. water
Italian seasoning
garlic Salt

In skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oi, saute veggies until soft. Add tomatoes, salt, seasoning, & water. Layer in 2 quart baking dish, veggies & noodles, ending with veggies. Sprinkle top with cheese if desired. Bake at 425 degrees for 40-45 minutes or until noodles are done. Serves 4

Link to bread
http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/recipe.aspx?recipeID=6576&Source=SearchResultPage

Cucumber Salad

2008-06-29T13:05:00.004-05:00

I have a massive amount of cucumbers coming from my garden! In addition are cabbage, squash, tomatoes, zuchinni, & peppers. I don't can (need to learn) so what I don't cook I give our friends at church. And we have been going to lots of fish fry's & picnics so I always take my Cucumber Salad, it's great (if you like cukes!)

Cucumber Salad

2 large cucumbers, skin on, sliced thick
1/4 onion, sliced
1 c. vinegar
1 tbsp water
1 pkt Splenda (or use sugar)
1/2 tsp dry dill
pepper
garlic salt

Combine all together & let chill overnight for best flavor.

Walgreens Deals

2008-06-27T22:42:00.003-05:00

Great Deals at Walgreens today.

1 gal. milk-on sale 2.99
Oscar Meyer Fully Cooked Bacon (my daughters fav) B1G1 @ 3.99
Gortons Popcorn Shrimp-on sale $2 each - .75/2 coupon
Aluminum Foil 2 for $1
Pkg of wafer cookies $1
Revlon Nail Color- Free after coupon that printed last visit
Kraft Mac n Cheese- $1.49
Planters Peanuts-on clearance for $2.49 - $3/1 Coupon if you buy 3 OM or Kraft products
Hydrogen Peroxide- .79
Cinnamon & Italian Seasoning 2 for $1
Cashew Brittle (my snack) .99
Cherry Ice cream (hubby snack) $2.00
Hannah Montana 2 pk lipgloss-on sale 4 at .99 each. Will use for oldest daughters Hannah Montan party in December

Plus $5 off $20 purchase for today only coupon equals

$18.49 Total for everything after coupons & sales.

Local Grocery deals today

2008-06-27T15:59:00.003-05:00

Like I've said before we have basically 2 places to purchase groceries, Walmart & Country Mart. I found out when I went yesterday that they double coupons up to $1, yeah!

In picture-

Lean Ground Beef 2 lb pkgs for $4.19-got 2 pkgs- since we only use 1/2 lb meat in recipes this will divide into 8 meal pkgs.

Oscar Meyer Lunch meat-on sale $2

2 Kraft Dressings-on sale $2/each -75/1 Coupon doubled=$1.25 each

Planter Nuts -$3.50 -$3/1 Coupon with Oscar Meyer & Kraft purchase= 50 cents

Total=about $14.00

Not much at Walmart this time

2008-06-21T16:49:00.002-05:00

3 Gold Bond Lotions @ .97 each - 3 $1 C=Free
Kashi Vive Cereal $3.48 -$2/1=$1.48
Country Crock $2.28 -.55 C= $1.73
Secret Deo. $.97 - .75 C =$ .22

Total= $3.43

Summer Fun

2008-06-20T16:01:00.003-05:00

The girls & I went to the library today. I sometimes forget that the library is a great frugal fun house! They have books, DVD's, & CD's all free to check out. And unlike movie rental stores, if you don't take them back for 2 -3 weeks the only charge is something like 50 cents.
Most libraries have summer programs. My mom takes my nephew every Thursday & they have an activity like a magician or they watch a movie. They also give coupons for free food from local resturaunts.

Free Samples

2008-06-18T15:54:00.003-05:00

One of my favorite sites is http://www.freegrabber.com/ Everyday they have new direct links to get free samples. It's great. Today I got 2 Pullups, samples of Huggies Baby wash & shampoo, & a sample of Fiber One Carmel Delight Cereal.

$30 worth of stuff for $3.84!

2008-06-18T15:31:00.002-05:00

Went to Walmart while visiting mom & walked away with all this for $3.84 using my coupons. The guy at the register was amazed.