Monday, January 31, 2011
Need Diapers?
Just came accross an AWESOME deal on diapers at Target. In their ad this week, they have buy 2 boxes of Huggies diapers at $19.99 and receive a $5 gift card. If you go to the Target.com site and print off two of each of the two Huggies coupons that are shown. One is a Target coupon for $2.50/1 and one is a manufacturer coupon for $3/1. Go to Target, buy 2 boxes of Huggies, use all 4 coupons, pay $28.98 and get a $5 gift card. That makes it $23.98 for 2 boxes or $11.99 each. Now I have not tried out this deal for myself yet, so if you guys have trouble let me know. I will hopefully be heading out tonight.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Bonus on Kleenex
I got my Kleenex coupons today. Remember these coupons cost me $10 for twenty of them. They were for $1/1 box of Kleenex. Walgreens has Kleenex on sale for $.89 this week. So I got 20 boxes of Kleenex and I paid $.01. Plus Walgreens has an unadvertised RR on Kleenex. Buy 5, Get $1 RR, Buy 6 Get $1.50 RR, Buy 7 Get $2 RR. So I paid .01 in total and got back $4.50 in RR (I did a few transactions). So if you take into account what I paid for the coupons, I paid $5.50 for 20 boxes of Kleenex. That is $0.27 a box! We go through a lot of kleenex in our house. Those 20 boxes will probably last us a month.
I did discover that different Walgreens handle coupons differently. I went to the Walgreens on Palm Valley and the cashier told me she could not take my coupons for $1 off because they were only $.89. I was about to just go to another Walgreens (The Walgreens I went to in Austin just took the coupons with no question). She called the manager and he adjusted the price so that it would be even. As long as I didn't have to pay, I am fine. The ad said there was a limit of 6. Most stores do not enforce this, but the manager at the Palm Valley store did. However, he let me multiply transactions to get more. Now does that make since to you? Anyway, I used $2 in RR to get some wax paper for the birthday cake I am making tonight.
I did discover that different Walgreens handle coupons differently. I went to the Walgreens on Palm Valley and the cashier told me she could not take my coupons for $1 off because they were only $.89. I was about to just go to another Walgreens (The Walgreens I went to in Austin just took the coupons with no question). She called the manager and he adjusted the price so that it would be even. As long as I didn't have to pay, I am fine. The ad said there was a limit of 6. Most stores do not enforce this, but the manager at the Palm Valley store did. However, he let me multiply transactions to get more. Now does that make since to you? Anyway, I used $2 in RR to get some wax paper for the birthday cake I am making tonight.
Buying coupons, is it worth it?
I recently read an article on another blog about fraudulent coupons. In the course of the article it mentioned buying coupons. It said you should never buy coupons and that there were plenty "free" coupons to find. This got me thinking, since I have recently started buying coupons from ebay. Is there really plenty of free coupons to be had. First of all I would like to point that it is illegal to sell coupons. However, I think this law refers to the manufacturers of the products. People get away with selling coupons, saying you are paying for their time and effort to procure the coupons and send them to you.
Now, lets look at the different sources for coupons. The Sunday paper is the most common place to find coupons. The Sunday paper is not free. Where I live the paper costs $2 a paper and $8.95 for a month. There is not a discount to buy multiple subscriptions. Some people are lucky enough to know people who subscribe to the newspaper, who don't use the coupons and are willing to give them to friends. That option is not open to all of us. So I conclude that these coupons are not free.
Another good place to get coupons is the internet. There are several sites to get them Coupons.com, smartsource.com, and redplum.com to name a few. Plus many companies will have internet coupons if you know where to look for them. But are these really free? I have to buy new ink for my printer at least every month. Plus I go through about a ream of paper in the same time. So these aren't really free either.
Another place to get coupons is on the actual products, but you have to buy the product to get the coupon. A few truely free places is the store. Many times you can find coupon books on food displays, coupons on tear pads on the shelves or little dispensers on the shelf. These are few and far between and you shouldn't take a lot as to be generous to other shoppers. The doctors offices have many coupons for medicines and skin care products. But many of us try to avoid the doctor at all costs. :) You can also write or email your favorite companies telling them how much you like their products. Sometimes this results in coupons. I have tried this with little result. And who has time to write letters to every company. My favorite way to get coupons is by signing up for free samples. Often the samples come with high value coupons.
In conclusion, I find that there aren't many "free" coupons. But I have found the cost to be worth return. I have researched every way of getting coupons and found that buying my coupons from ebay is most cost effective. Also, I have to throw away less papers that way. Does anyone else have thoughts?
Now, lets look at the different sources for coupons. The Sunday paper is the most common place to find coupons. The Sunday paper is not free. Where I live the paper costs $2 a paper and $8.95 for a month. There is not a discount to buy multiple subscriptions. Some people are lucky enough to know people who subscribe to the newspaper, who don't use the coupons and are willing to give them to friends. That option is not open to all of us. So I conclude that these coupons are not free.
Another good place to get coupons is the internet. There are several sites to get them Coupons.com, smartsource.com, and redplum.com to name a few. Plus many companies will have internet coupons if you know where to look for them. But are these really free? I have to buy new ink for my printer at least every month. Plus I go through about a ream of paper in the same time. So these aren't really free either.
Another place to get coupons is on the actual products, but you have to buy the product to get the coupon. A few truely free places is the store. Many times you can find coupon books on food displays, coupons on tear pads on the shelves or little dispensers on the shelf. These are few and far between and you shouldn't take a lot as to be generous to other shoppers. The doctors offices have many coupons for medicines and skin care products. But many of us try to avoid the doctor at all costs. :) You can also write or email your favorite companies telling them how much you like their products. Sometimes this results in coupons. I have tried this with little result. And who has time to write letters to every company. My favorite way to get coupons is by signing up for free samples. Often the samples come with high value coupons.
In conclusion, I find that there aren't many "free" coupons. But I have found the cost to be worth return. I have researched every way of getting coupons and found that buying my coupons from ebay is most cost effective. Also, I have to throw away less papers that way. Does anyone else have thoughts?
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Walgreens deals
Today I went to Walgreens. My coupons came in the mail. I have never had them come late. Of course I am waiting for one more, so I will let you know how that turns out. Anyway, I bought
11 cans of Maxwell house coffee $2.79 each
I used $1/1 coupon for each one (I bought 20 for $2.50)
For a total of $1.79 each
4 cans of Maxwell house international $2.79
I used Buy two Maxwell house coffee get international cafe for free (I bought 10 for $2.50)
For Free
10 boxes Colgate advance $4.59 B1G1 free
I used 10 $1/1 coupons (I bought these for $2.54)
2 for $2.59 or $1.30 each
I paid $25 and saved $98.01. I now have 6 months supply of coffee and toothpaste. Two of the more expensive things on my grocery list. For those who get angry when they go the store, to get something on sale and the shelf wiped out. I went to two different store, so wouldn't wipe out the shelves.
11 cans of Maxwell house coffee $2.79 each
I used $1/1 coupon for each one (I bought 20 for $2.50)
For a total of $1.79 each
4 cans of Maxwell house international $2.79
I used Buy two Maxwell house coffee get international cafe for free (I bought 10 for $2.50)
For Free
10 boxes Colgate advance $4.59 B1G1 free
I used 10 $1/1 coupons (I bought these for $2.54)
2 for $2.59 or $1.30 each
I paid $25 and saved $98.01. I now have 6 months supply of coffee and toothpaste. Two of the more expensive things on my grocery list. For those who get angry when they go the store, to get something on sale and the shelf wiped out. I went to two different store, so wouldn't wipe out the shelves.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Target Deals
I just got back from my weekly Target trip. I was pretty excited when I left. I took off $40 by using coupons alone. My total was $144 and I paid $91.58. My total savings with sales, coupons and discounts was $58.39!
Yesterday Target reset their online coupons. There is a lot of savings to be had. You can find a complete list at thekrazycouponlady.com. Here is a run down of my savings.
Up & Up diapers $14.69
$1.50 target coupon (I printed this before the reset)
$13.19
Up wipes $1.79
no coupon
2 Up disinfenting wipes $2.19 each
$.50 target coupon (also before the reset)
$1.69 each
2 Jet Dry $2.59 each
2 $1.50/1 target coupon here
2 $1/1 coupons from
$0.09 each
2 10 ct Finish Quantum Dishwasher detergent
2 $1.50/1 Target coupon
2 $.75/1 coupon from here
$0.74 each
6 trial size Sensodyne toothpaste $0.99 each
6 $0.75 coupons I bought on ebay for about $1.75
$.24 each
2 Revelon Mascara $5.54 on sale 10% off
2 $1/1 Target coupons (printed off before reset)
2 $1/1 mf coupon from paper
$3 each
This part of my order was all for $23.96. Not bad considering I bought diapers. Now just to let you know, I don't print out every online coupon. I only print the ones for things I know I will need to buy. Such as diapers and I have been looking for inexpensive mascara to replace my old stuff.
Now I am not going to run down all the groceries I bought. Just the things I got a good deal on. I am still buying some things without coupons. I am hoping to get that down to a minumum. Overall, the food part of my order was only $67.62 for a week's worth of groceries. Before it would cost me at least $100-$120. I am trying to get it down to $50 a week. Every week I get a little closer to my goal.
Oscar Meyer Carving board sandwich meat $3.14
$.75/1 Target coupon
$1/1 mfr coupon
$1.38 This is new, so I thought I would try it out
Kraft Sandwich shop mayo $1.52
$.75/1 Target coupon
$.75/1 mfr coupon
$0.02
2 Splenda $3.94 each
B1G1 mfr coupon
2 for $3.94 or $1.97 each. Not a fantastic deal, but still a good price
6 Healthy Choice Frozen meals $1.69 each
B5G1 mfr coupon
B3G1 Target coupon (this coupon would only print once for me. If you had two computers, you could print it twice and it would be a better deal)
$6.76 for 6 or $1.12 each
4 6pk refridgerated Jello pudding $2.50 each
1 B3G1 Target coupon (printed before reset)
2 $1/2 mfr coupons from Coupons.com
$5.50 for 4 or $1.37 each
Plus Target is having a sale on a lot of their dairy. Milk is $2.60 a gallon and Half and Half is $1.50, right now.
Yesterday Target reset their online coupons. There is a lot of savings to be had. You can find a complete list at thekrazycouponlady.com. Here is a run down of my savings.
Up & Up diapers $14.69
$1.50 target coupon (I printed this before the reset)
$13.19
Up wipes $1.79
no coupon
2 Up disinfenting wipes $2.19 each
$.50 target coupon (also before the reset)
$1.69 each
2 Jet Dry $2.59 each
2 $1.50/1 target coupon here
2 $1/1 coupons from
$0.09 each
2 10 ct Finish Quantum Dishwasher detergent
2 $1.50/1 Target coupon
2 $.75/1 coupon from here
$0.74 each
6 trial size Sensodyne toothpaste $0.99 each
6 $0.75 coupons I bought on ebay for about $1.75
$.24 each
2 Revelon Mascara $5.54 on sale 10% off
2 $1/1 Target coupons (printed off before reset)
2 $1/1 mf coupon from paper
$3 each
This part of my order was all for $23.96. Not bad considering I bought diapers. Now just to let you know, I don't print out every online coupon. I only print the ones for things I know I will need to buy. Such as diapers and I have been looking for inexpensive mascara to replace my old stuff.
Now I am not going to run down all the groceries I bought. Just the things I got a good deal on. I am still buying some things without coupons. I am hoping to get that down to a minumum. Overall, the food part of my order was only $67.62 for a week's worth of groceries. Before it would cost me at least $100-$120. I am trying to get it down to $50 a week. Every week I get a little closer to my goal.
Oscar Meyer Carving board sandwich meat $3.14
$.75/1 Target coupon
$1/1 mfr coupon
$1.38 This is new, so I thought I would try it out
Kraft Sandwich shop mayo $1.52
$.75/1 Target coupon
$.75/1 mfr coupon
$0.02
2 Splenda $3.94 each
B1G1 mfr coupon
2 for $3.94 or $1.97 each. Not a fantastic deal, but still a good price
6 Healthy Choice Frozen meals $1.69 each
B5G1 mfr coupon
B3G1 Target coupon (this coupon would only print once for me. If you had two computers, you could print it twice and it would be a better deal)
$6.76 for 6 or $1.12 each
4 6pk refridgerated Jello pudding $2.50 each
1 B3G1 Target coupon (printed before reset)
2 $1/2 mfr coupons from Coupons.com
$5.50 for 4 or $1.37 each
Plus Target is having a sale on a lot of their dairy. Milk is $2.60 a gallon and Half and Half is $1.50, right now.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Buying Coupons from Ebay
Well, I just finished buying my coupons for the week. The thekrazycouponlady.com posts the sales matchups for the next week on every Saturday. This gives me enough time to browse the sale, buy the coupons for the my favorite deals and receive the coupons in the mail before the sale is over. Next week Walgreens has Kleenex on sale for $.89. I found a coupon on Ebay for $1/1. This makes them free! The drawback is that the coupon cost $10 for 20. Now this frustrates me to no end that people charge outlandish prices for high demand coupons. we are only supposed to be paying for their time and effort and it does not take more time and effort to cut those coupons out. But I guess they need to make thier money. The reason I decided to buy this coupon was that I am essentially getting 20 boxes of coupons for $10 since they will free in the store with coupon. Now coupons is something that does not last long in my house. That 20 boxes will probably last only a month at best. But when you have to continuously blow your nose, you need the soft lotion Kleenex.
I also bought:
20 $1/2 Maxwell house coupons for $2.25 (This is on sale for $2.79 at Walgreens next week)
10 Free Maxwell house Iternational Cafe wyb 2 Maxwell coffee (since I am getting the coffee anyway I might as well get some more for free). Got to feed my husband's coffee habit.
10 $1/1 Colgate toothpaste for $2.54 (this was a great deal. This coupon is going for $3-$5). Target has a mobile coupon for $1/1 too. Plus you can find this toothpaste for $1 many times. So this coupon is a great value.
I also bought:
20 $1/2 Maxwell house coupons for $2.25 (This is on sale for $2.79 at Walgreens next week)
10 Free Maxwell house Iternational Cafe wyb 2 Maxwell coffee (since I am getting the coffee anyway I might as well get some more for free). Got to feed my husband's coffee habit.
10 $1/1 Colgate toothpaste for $2.54 (this was a great deal. This coupon is going for $3-$5). Target has a mobile coupon for $1/1 too. Plus you can find this toothpaste for $1 many times. So this coupon is a great value.
New coupon binder
So my coupon organizer was busting out the seams.
I decided it is now time for me to graduate to binder. I looked at several options. Ebay.com has several options. There are many fancy binders with all of the inserts, dividers and labels. Most run $20-$30 plus shipping. Plus you can get the inserts separately in many sizes. It actually quite overwhelming. I looked at target and found 30 baseball inserts for $5 and you can get a baseball binder with 540 pockets for $15. I found found binders with zippered covers and accordion file for $10. All of these option seemed good, but I am all about saving money. So I looked up how to start a binder from The Krazy Coupon Lady. Then I looked around my house for things I could repurpose to make my own binder. I found a 2" binder, about 60 page protectors, various colors of cardstock and hot glue gun and glue sticks. I proceeded to make my own inserts by cutting each page protector in thirds leaving the binding intact. Then I inserted a cardstock. This was the most tricky and time consuming part. I found it was easiest to insert the middle section first, then the bottom, then the top. Then I hot glued each section closed on the bottom to make pockets. This worked very well for making the pockets, however I had to be careful not to touch the plastic directly on the glue gun or it melted. Plus the hot glue is not forgiving of mistakes, I have a few upside down pockets.
Then I bought some paperclip tabs at Target, which I used as my dividers for under $3. I liked these because I can move them around if I need to and I could get more for the money. What I don't like about them was that they are a bit large and I have to attatch them to my inserts making it hard to use all the space for my coupons. To lable my sections, I printed out a table of contents from The Krazy Coupon Lady and wrote out each section on either side of the tabs, then attached them to the inserts and entered all my coupons. The whole project took about 4 hours to do. I spread it out over a few days. I love being able to see all my coupons easily. I have determined I will need a larger binder, but my hope is to wait until the Back To School sales to get a binder at the best price.
I added a few pockets in the front for each store I frequent to put store coupons and coupon policies. I have read in many places that it is a good idea to always have the policy on hand in case of problems.
How do I plan to carry around this monstrous binder? I found a laptop bag/briefcase that my husband won at work. It has plenty of room for my binder, plus it has pockets for my wallet, cards and other accessories. Do you think I may scare some cashiers walking into the grocery store with a briefcase?
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
I got 20 64 oz bottles of Welches Juice for $15 at Randalls
This is how I did it.
Randalls had Welches juice for $1.99 wyb 4 or more
I bought 20 for $39.80
I used 20 $1/1 coupons I bought off ebay
Total came to $19.80
Then I used $5 catalina from last week for a total of $14.80
Randalls had Welches juice for $1.99 wyb 4 or more
I bought 20 for $39.80
I used 20 $1/1 coupons I bought off ebay
Total came to $19.80
Then I used $5 catalina from last week for a total of $14.80
Monday, January 17, 2011
Progress report
Well, last week, I stocked up on:
granola bars for $0.80 a box
bottled water at $0.08 each
10 boxes fruit snacks for free
ziplock bags various sizes for $1.70 each
of oatmeal 3 for $0.16 total, 7 for $0.50 each
chex cereal for $1.50 each
Special K cereal for $1.50 each
printer paper for $1.16 each
Smart ones for $1.80 each
frozen vegetables for $0.88
Chex mix at $0.50 a bag
Duracell AA batteries $1.49 for a 4pk
Well my grocery bill has not lowered yet, but my stockpile IS increasing. This week I plan on stocking up on deodorant, coffee, cold medicine, toothpaste and more chex mix. To form your plan of attack, make sure to go to thekrazycouponlady.com for complete match ups.
granola bars for $0.80 a box
bottled water at $0.08 each
10 boxes fruit snacks for free
ziplock bags various sizes for $1.70 each
of oatmeal 3 for $0.16 total, 7 for $0.50 each
chex cereal for $1.50 each
Special K cereal for $1.50 each
printer paper for $1.16 each
Smart ones for $1.80 each
frozen vegetables for $0.88
Chex mix at $0.50 a bag
Duracell AA batteries $1.49 for a 4pk
Well my grocery bill has not lowered yet, but my stockpile IS increasing. This week I plan on stocking up on deodorant, coffee, cold medicine, toothpaste and more chex mix. To form your plan of attack, make sure to go to thekrazycouponlady.com for complete match ups.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Clearance toys
On Thursday morning, I went to Target to use my Chex cereal coupons. Chex cereal was no longer on sale, boo. But I did get 3 18oz quick oats for 1.74, I used 3 $1/1 manufacturer coupons and 2 $1/1 target coupons making my total $0.16 for 3! Anyway while I was in the checkstand a customer behind me had two baskets of toys. She says clearance toys are 75% off. I can't pass that up so I head back. This is what I found for my upcoming birthday boys.
Starwars game (the kind that plug right into tv) $7.48
Toy Stoy disc shooter with target game $3.77
Kung Zhu pet camand center $3.77
Kung Zhu pet hamster wheel $3.77
Kung Zhu pet connecter $2.73
Texters $3.74
Dragon $3.62
Play laptop $5.00
sparkle water ball $1.74 (this is for my ball obsessed toddler)
Total was $33.23 including my 5% discount with Target debit card
I was feeling really good about the 5 (soon to be 6) year olds birthday, but didn't have wow stuff for soon to be 9 year old. Target did not have their Legos 75% off. So I headed to Wal-Mart. I still needed to use my Chex Cereal coupons and I knew they were only $2 at Wal-Mart. With my coupon they were only $1.50, so I stocked up. While I was in the checkstand, the Cashier told me about the 75% off toy sale they were having, so I headed over. This is what I found at Wal-Mart.
Paper jams drum set with amplifier $14.50
Lego Atlantis set $8.60
Lego Star Wars battle cruiser for $10
Lego Toy story Buzz Lightyear $1.50
Lego Toy Story Zurg $1.50
Kung Zhu pet $4
Yard horse shoe set $5
Lego watches $1.80
Total $48.39
My kids birthdays are covered. With sales like this you have to hit it just right and I was just lucky to happen to be shopping with the sale hit.
Toy Stoy disc shooter with target game $3.77
Kung Zhu pet camand center $3.77
Kung Zhu pet hamster wheel $3.77
Kung Zhu pet connecter $2.73
Texters $3.74
Dragon $3.62
Play laptop $5.00
sparkle water ball $1.74 (this is for my ball obsessed toddler)
Total was $33.23 including my 5% discount with Target debit card
I was feeling really good about the 5 (soon to be 6) year olds birthday, but didn't have wow stuff for soon to be 9 year old. Target did not have their Legos 75% off. So I headed to Wal-Mart. I still needed to use my Chex Cereal coupons and I knew they were only $2 at Wal-Mart. With my coupon they were only $1.50, so I stocked up. While I was in the checkstand, the Cashier told me about the 75% off toy sale they were having, so I headed over. This is what I found at Wal-Mart.
Paper jams drum set with amplifier $14.50
Lego Atlantis set $8.60
Lego Star Wars battle cruiser for $10
Lego Toy story Buzz Lightyear $1.50
Lego Toy Story Zurg $1.50
Kung Zhu pet $4
Yard horse shoe set $5
Lego watches $1.80
Total $48.39
My kids birthdays are covered. With sales like this you have to hit it just right and I was just lucky to happen to be shopping with the sale hit.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Walgreens trip 1/13
For full Walgreens match up go here.
This week I decided to try out buying coupons. Yes, I said buying coupons. Since the paper here is a bit pricey and I have decided I want to start stocking up when things are at a good price, I came to the conclusion that this was my best option. It is illegal to sell coupons. Supposedly people are charging for their time and effort. But the higher demand coupons are always more expensive. First I checked out the match ups for the week. They were posted by Saturday morning. I found the deals I really wanted. Then I went to ebay put in a search for those coupons. I only looked at the Buy it Now listings. Most of them were about 20 for $1.50 shipped on average. I weeded out the best deal. I purchased them. Then I waited for them to come in the mail. When all of them came I took them to the store and got what I wanted. I am very happy with the results so far. Here is a look at my Walgreens trip.
Tranaction 1: First I bought by groceries
6 bags cheddar Chex Mix for 3/4.99
I used $0.99/3 coupon from Walgreens monthly coupon book
I used 3 $0.50/2 manufacturer coupon
RR: buy 3 get $1.50 RR, buy 4 get $2.50 RR, buy 5 get $3.50 RR
I paid $6.50 and got $3.50 back in RR making the total $0.50 a bag wyb 6
4 Quaker Oats 18oz 2/3 with in-ad coupon
I used 4 $1/1 manufacturer coupons
Total $0.50 each
5 boxed Fiber One granola bars 2/$4
I used 5 $0.50 coupons from internet. Find them bettycrocker.com, target.com, coupons.com, redplum.com, boxtops4education.com
RR: buy 3 get $1.50 RR, buy 4 get $2.50 RR, buy 5 get $3.50 RR
I paid $7.50 and got back $3.50
total $0.80 each wyb 5
Transaction 2 and 3:
4 4pk Duracell batteries $2.99 with in-ad coupon
1 used 4 $1.50/1 manufacturer coupons
total $1.49 each. We got a Wii for Christmas got to keep a stock of batteries
1 pack knee highs for filler $0.25
I used one $3.50 RR and paid $2.98
Transaction 4:
2 4pk Duracell batteries $2.99 with in-ad coupon
7 no nonsence knee highs $.25 each
I used one $3.00 RR and one $1.50 RR (from last week) and paid $0.25
This week I decided to try out buying coupons. Yes, I said buying coupons. Since the paper here is a bit pricey and I have decided I want to start stocking up when things are at a good price, I came to the conclusion that this was my best option. It is illegal to sell coupons. Supposedly people are charging for their time and effort. But the higher demand coupons are always more expensive. First I checked out the match ups for the week. They were posted by Saturday morning. I found the deals I really wanted. Then I went to ebay put in a search for those coupons. I only looked at the Buy it Now listings. Most of them were about 20 for $1.50 shipped on average. I weeded out the best deal. I purchased them. Then I waited for them to come in the mail. When all of them came I took them to the store and got what I wanted. I am very happy with the results so far. Here is a look at my Walgreens trip.
Tranaction 1: First I bought by groceries
6 bags cheddar Chex Mix for 3/4.99
I used $0.99/3 coupon from Walgreens monthly coupon book
I used 3 $0.50/2 manufacturer coupon
RR: buy 3 get $1.50 RR, buy 4 get $2.50 RR, buy 5 get $3.50 RR
I paid $6.50 and got $3.50 back in RR making the total $0.50 a bag wyb 6
4 Quaker Oats 18oz 2/3 with in-ad coupon
I used 4 $1/1 manufacturer coupons
Total $0.50 each
5 boxed Fiber One granola bars 2/$4
I used 5 $0.50 coupons from internet. Find them bettycrocker.com, target.com, coupons.com, redplum.com, boxtops4education.com
RR: buy 3 get $1.50 RR, buy 4 get $2.50 RR, buy 5 get $3.50 RR
I paid $7.50 and got back $3.50
total $0.80 each wyb 5
Transaction 2 and 3:
4 4pk Duracell batteries $2.99 with in-ad coupon
1 used 4 $1.50/1 manufacturer coupons
total $1.49 each. We got a Wii for Christmas got to keep a stock of batteries
1 pack knee highs for filler $0.25
I used one $3.50 RR and paid $2.98
Transaction 4:
2 4pk Duracell batteries $2.99 with in-ad coupon
7 no nonsence knee highs $.25 each
I used one $3.00 RR and one $1.50 RR (from last week) and paid $0.25
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Randalls
Today I decided to start learning about Randalls. I have been reluctant to go to Randalls. They are not very close to where I live and they are more expensive as grocery stores go. Plus my husband worked for Albertsons for many years and just had something against Randalls in general, must be a competitive thing. Anyway I saw some deals I just could not pass up. So I went and got their loyalty card and tried out their system. Here are a few things I learned. I was told that only one catalina (the coupons that print out at the checkstand, often for money off your next trip) would print out for a promotion per transaction. When using a catalina coupon, you can only use one per transaction.
For a full sale match up go here. Today is the last day of this sale.
Here are some of the things I picked up.
Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks, 4.5-9 oz $0.99, must buy 4
Catalina: buy 3 get $1, buy 4 get $2, buy 5 get $3
I bought 5
used 1 $1/3 from bettycrocker.com
and 1 $1/2 from coupons.com
I paid $2.98 and got $3 off. So I got 5 boxes for basically free. I did this transactions twice.
I had made a deal with my oldest son, that if I could find fruit snacks for under $0.50 I would get him some. Free is even better!
Nature Valley Granola Bars, 6.7-8.9 oz $2.00
Catalina: buy 3 get $1.50, buy 4 get $2.50, 5 get $3.50
I bought 5
used 2 $1/2 from bettycrocker.com
and 1 $0.50/1 from coupons.com
I paid 7.50 and got $3.50 back. So each box was $0.80. I did this transaction twice.
My husband has an intolerance to wheat, so he eats a lot of these since they have no wheat.
Halmark Cards
Catalina: Buy 3 get $5 back
I bought 3 cards at $1.99 (catalina not valid on $0.99 cards)
I paid $6 and got $5 back. So 3 Halmark cards for $1.
I used used my two $3 catalinas to buy milk and my $3.50 catalina to buy salad, that is BOGO (buy one get one free) this week. I will save my $5 catalina for another trip, it is good until 2/21/ All in all I think my trip was worth it and will probably do it again. I did have a cranky cashier, but that will not deter me from getting the best deal.
For a full sale match up go here. Today is the last day of this sale.
Here are some of the things I picked up.
Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks, 4.5-9 oz $0.99, must buy 4
Catalina: buy 3 get $1, buy 4 get $2, buy 5 get $3
I bought 5
used 1 $1/3 from bettycrocker.com
and 1 $1/2 from coupons.com
I paid $2.98 and got $3 off. So I got 5 boxes for basically free. I did this transactions twice.
I had made a deal with my oldest son, that if I could find fruit snacks for under $0.50 I would get him some. Free is even better!
Nature Valley Granola Bars, 6.7-8.9 oz $2.00
Catalina: buy 3 get $1.50, buy 4 get $2.50, 5 get $3.50
I bought 5
used 2 $1/2 from bettycrocker.com
and 1 $0.50/1 from coupons.com
I paid 7.50 and got $3.50 back. So each box was $0.80. I did this transaction twice.
My husband has an intolerance to wheat, so he eats a lot of these since they have no wheat.
Halmark Cards
Catalina: Buy 3 get $5 back
I bought 3 cards at $1.99 (catalina not valid on $0.99 cards)
I paid $6 and got $5 back. So 3 Halmark cards for $1.
I used used my two $3 catalinas to buy milk and my $3.50 catalina to buy salad, that is BOGO (buy one get one free) this week. I will save my $5 catalina for another trip, it is good until 2/21/ All in all I think my trip was worth it and will probably do it again. I did have a cranky cashier, but that will not deter me from getting the best deal.
New Focus
I have been doing couponing now for about 6 months. I have been getting some great deals. All my friends are impressed. The cashiers are impressed. Even some other customers in line have been impressed. But, my grocery bill has not been shrinking. So I have been reevaluating my technique. I buy one paper, I cut out the coupons. I save the coupons and wait for the sale match up. Then I go and buy one, maybe two of the item at an extremely discounted price. Good, right? Well, what happens when I need that item again? I go out and buy it at the regular price or I may have a coupon, but I don't buy it on sale. So, I decided what I really need to do is stock up. I need to buy several of one thing while they are at the lowest price, so that I don't have to buy them again before they go on sale again. My goal is to shrink my grocery bill to $50 a week for my family of five. I am not going to solely focus on the store match ups and deals on the blog. There are so many other really good blogs out there that can help you as coupon. My focus of this blog is to share my journey as I strive to take care of my family with limited means. Many of you are beginners like I am and I invite you to join me in my journey. We can encourage each other on and learn together.
Monday, January 10, 2011
My favorite deals from Target today
For a full Target match up go here
Here are my favorites. Some of these I caught on my own.
Pledge All Surface cleaner on sale for $3.49
Use 1 $0.50/1 Target coupon target.com
Use 1 $0.75/1 Manufacturer coupon from this weeks paper
Total $2.24 each (on a personal note, I love this cleaner, but it is always so expensive)
Healthy Choice single serving soup Chicken Vegetable $1.21
Use 1 $1/2 manufacturers coupon (I believe it was last week's paper)
Total $0.74 each wyb 2
New Dole Fruit Crisps on sale for $1.67
Use 1 $0.75/1 coupon 1/9 paper
Total $0.92
Ziploc bags on Temporary price reduction until 1/15 for $2.33
Use $1.25/2 coupon from 1/9 paper
Total $1.70 each wyb 2 (most store have these on sale for $2.50 and $2.99 this week, so this price is the best)
Market Pantry Frozen Chicken Breasts $5.84
Use $3/2 target coupon target.com
Total $4.34 each wyb 2
32 ct Market Pantry Purified water $3.19
Use $0.50/1 24 ct water target coupon target.com
The coupon specifically says 24 ct, but the cashier gave it to me for the 32 ct.
Total $2.69, thats $0.08 a bottle!
Remember you can print out two coupons per computer. And Don't forget to get the Target Debit card to receive 5% off.
Here are my favorites. Some of these I caught on my own.
Pledge All Surface cleaner on sale for $3.49
Use 1 $0.50/1 Target coupon target.com
Use 1 $0.75/1 Manufacturer coupon from this weeks paper
Total $2.24 each (on a personal note, I love this cleaner, but it is always so expensive)
Healthy Choice single serving soup Chicken Vegetable $1.21
Use 1 $1/2 manufacturers coupon (I believe it was last week's paper)
Total $0.74 each wyb 2
New Dole Fruit Crisps on sale for $1.67
Use 1 $0.75/1 coupon 1/9 paper
Total $0.92
Ziploc bags on Temporary price reduction until 1/15 for $2.33
Use $1.25/2 coupon from 1/9 paper
Total $1.70 each wyb 2 (most store have these on sale for $2.50 and $2.99 this week, so this price is the best)
Market Pantry Frozen Chicken Breasts $5.84
Use $3/2 target coupon target.com
Total $4.34 each wyb 2
32 ct Market Pantry Purified water $3.19
Use $0.50/1 24 ct water target coupon target.com
The coupon specifically says 24 ct, but the cashier gave it to me for the 32 ct.
Total $2.69, thats $0.08 a bottle!
Remember you can print out two coupons per computer. And Don't forget to get the Target Debit card to receive 5% off.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Walgreens deals 1/02-1/08
This week Walgreens has a Oscillo children's homeopathic flu relief for $8.99 with a $9 RR purchase. There is a $2/1 coupon found here. (thanks to Athriftymom.com) I have read that some Walgreens are not taking these coupons, but I had no problems with the Walgreens in Hutto. Also, not all Walgreens have this, but Hutto has it. Go here for a full Walgreens ad/coupon match.
Here is my deals.
Transaction 1
1 Oscillo Children's $8.99
I used $2/1 coupon here
Paid $6.99 and got $9.00 in RR
Total -$2.01
Transaction 2
Get 3 RR wyb $10 in Advil products
Children's Advil liquid $5
used $2/1 coupon in Sunday paper
Total $3
4 20ct Advil gelcaps $3
used 3 $2/1 coupons found here and 1 $2/1 from the Sunday paper
Total $4 wyb 4
2 boxes Walgreens tissues with lotion $0.79 with ad coupon
1 $0.39 caramel for filler
I used the $9.00 RR from my first transaction and paid $0.15. I also recieved $3 in RR and got 2 catalina (coupons that print at check stand) for free Breathe Right nasal trips
Transaction 3
Here is my deals.
Transaction 1
1 Oscillo Children's $8.99
I used $2/1 coupon here
Paid $6.99 and got $9.00 in RR
Total -$2.01
Transaction 2
Get 3 RR wyb $10 in Advil products
Children's Advil liquid $5
used $2/1 coupon in Sunday paper
Total $3
4 20ct Advil gelcaps $3
used 3 $2/1 coupons found here and 1 $2/1 from the Sunday paper
Total $4 wyb 4
2 boxes Walgreens tissues with lotion $0.79 with ad coupon
1 $0.39 caramel for filler
I used the $9.00 RR from my first transaction and paid $0.15. I also recieved $3 in RR and got 2 catalina (coupons that print at check stand) for free Breathe Right nasal trips
Transaction 3
1 Oscillo Children's $8.99
I used $2/1 coupon here
1 caramel filler
I used the $3 RR and paid $4.38. I received $9 RR
Transaction 4
I had to go to a different Walgreens for this one, because mine was out of Finish dishwasher detergent.
1 8ct Walgreens paper towel $3.99
3 10ct Breathe Right nasal strips $6.79 each
I used 3 Catalina (printed out from previous transactions) get one free coupons
Total free for all three.
1 Afrin no drip severe congestion $5
I use 1 get one free Catalina coupon (from a transaction from last week)
Total is free
1 20ct Finish dishwasher detergent 3in1 tabs $3.49
I used $2.25/1 coupon from Sunday paper
$1.50 RR
Total -$0.26
2 Advil children's liquid $5 each
I used 2 $2/1 coupons I got from the doctor's office. The doctor's office is a great place to get coupons and samples.
$3 RR when you buy $10
Total $3 for 2 or $1.50 each
I used my $9 RR from transaction 3, paid $2.23 and received $4.50 RR
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Walgreens deals 1/01/11
Transition 1:
Dayquill gell caps for $5
Nyquill liquid for $5
I used $3/wyb both coupon from Sunday P&G insert
Total $7 wyb both
Vicks Sinex nasal spray $6
I bought 2. I used one $4/1 from P&G Sunday insert and one $4/1 coupon from P&G coupons I got from a 24pk Duracell battery I recently purchased
Total $2 each
1 Vicks VapoRub $4
I used $1/1 coupon from P&G Sunday insert
Total $3
I paid $13 total and received $10 RR. Walgreens is running a special, get $5 RR wyb $15 in vicks products and get $10 wyb $20. This total is before coupons. Since my total was over $26 before coupons, I got $10 in RR.
Transition 2:
5 boxes Puffs with lotion (my family goes through a lot of tissues)
I used Walgreens coupon in the weekly Ad making them $0.89 each
I also used a manufactured $0.50/3 coupon from P&G sunday insert
Total $3.95 for 5
3 8.7oz bags of cheddar Chex mix $0.99
I used $0.50/2 from Sunday insert
$1.50 RR wyb 3
$2.50 RR wyb 4
$3.50 RR wyb 5
I only chose to get 3. Total for 3 was $0.97
Pantene 25.4 oz $1.79
I bought 2 and used $3/2 coupon from P&G insert
$2 RR wyb 2
Total was $1.42 money maker
H/S Conditioner $1.59
I bought 2 and used $2/2 coupon from P&G insert
Total was $0.59 each
John Freida Blonde shampoo 9.4 oz $2.29
I used $1/1 coupon from sunday insert
Total was $1.29
Pantine Highlights shampoo 13.5 oz $1.69
I did not have a coupon for this one
Total $1.69
JF hairspray 10oz $1.29
I used $2/1 coupon from Sunday insert
Total $0.71 money maker
Pantine Curly hairspray $1.29
I used a $1/2 coupon from P&G insert
Total $0.29
My total for the complete order was $11.49 and used my $10 RR from my first transition and $1.49. I then was given another $3.50 in RR. Just as a side note, I found a P&G insert in my Hutto paper, so be on the look out for that the first week of every month. Also, I was planning on getting the Pantine for the RR and found all the other deals by chance. Make sure you always carry your coupons, you never know when you will find a deal
Transition 3:
Walgreens Pantine knock off conditioner 25.4oz $1.59
I bought 2 and did not have any coupons, but I used the $3.50 in RR from my 2nd transition (I had to throw in $0.39 caramel from register as a filler) and paid $0.08.
Dayquill gell caps for $5
Nyquill liquid for $5
I used $3/wyb both coupon from Sunday P&G insert
Total $7 wyb both
Vicks Sinex nasal spray $6
I bought 2. I used one $4/1 from P&G Sunday insert and one $4/1 coupon from P&G coupons I got from a 24pk Duracell battery I recently purchased
Total $2 each
1 Vicks VapoRub $4
I used $1/1 coupon from P&G Sunday insert
Total $3
I paid $13 total and received $10 RR. Walgreens is running a special, get $5 RR wyb $15 in vicks products and get $10 wyb $20. This total is before coupons. Since my total was over $26 before coupons, I got $10 in RR.
Transition 2:
5 boxes Puffs with lotion (my family goes through a lot of tissues)
I used Walgreens coupon in the weekly Ad making them $0.89 each
I also used a manufactured $0.50/3 coupon from P&G sunday insert
Total $3.95 for 5
3 8.7oz bags of cheddar Chex mix $0.99
I used $0.50/2 from Sunday insert
$1.50 RR wyb 3
$2.50 RR wyb 4
$3.50 RR wyb 5
I only chose to get 3. Total for 3 was $0.97
Pantene 25.4 oz $1.79
I bought 2 and used $3/2 coupon from P&G insert
$2 RR wyb 2
Total was $1.42 money maker
H/S Conditioner $1.59
I bought 2 and used $2/2 coupon from P&G insert
Total was $0.59 each
John Freida Blonde shampoo 9.4 oz $2.29
I used $1/1 coupon from sunday insert
Total was $1.29
Pantine Highlights shampoo 13.5 oz $1.69
I did not have a coupon for this one
Total $1.69
JF hairspray 10oz $1.29
I used $2/1 coupon from Sunday insert
Total $0.71 money maker
Pantine Curly hairspray $1.29
I used a $1/2 coupon from P&G insert
Total $0.29
My total for the complete order was $11.49 and used my $10 RR from my first transition and $1.49. I then was given another $3.50 in RR. Just as a side note, I found a P&G insert in my Hutto paper, so be on the look out for that the first week of every month. Also, I was planning on getting the Pantine for the RR and found all the other deals by chance. Make sure you always carry your coupons, you never know when you will find a deal
Transition 3:
Walgreens Pantine knock off conditioner 25.4oz $1.59
I bought 2 and did not have any coupons, but I used the $3.50 in RR from my 2nd transition (I had to throw in $0.39 caramel from register as a filler) and paid $0.08.
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