Free Sweets

Yum, June 4 is National Doughnut Day (sounds like a fabulous holiday!).  You can get:

Free Krispy Kreme doughnut

Free Dunkin Donut with beverage purchase.

Then, if you haven't had too many calories already, you can get a Free scoop of Friendly's ice cream from 12 pm - 5 pm on June 5.

Thanks, Money Saving Mom!

Target Trip 05/31

No picture due to no camera yet and I took my sister's back to her.

We bought 10 Sobe Lifewaters at $1 each then got a $5 Target giftcard back for using 10.
- Used two .50 cents off Target coupons
- If you haven't reached the print limit, B1G1 free coupon
Wholly Guacamole
- Used 1.50 off coupon
10 Smart Ones at 1.89 each, got back a $5 Target giftcard for buying 10.
- Used coupon here

Those were the highlights.  I bought some dog treats, not on sale, but my $1 off coupons expired today, so I went ahead and stocked up.

Overall I spent 90.84 (pretax), received back $10 in giftcards and saved 43.99!  Yipee.
(Although my husband could have done without telling the cashier, "watch this!" when I handed him the coupons. :))

TJ Maxx Trip 05/29

I love, love TJ Maxx.  Every trip in there is an exercise in self-control.  I found some great things yesterday.

I got a dog toy, a Maeve Binchy book for my mom for her birthday, a Calvin Klein tank marked down to $7, and the best find was Mrs. Meyer's all-purpose cleaners.  They were fragrance free and clearanced down to $2 each!  $8 bottles.  So, of course, I stocked up.  I need to clean now and when we move into a new place, so I didn't figure it was overkill, right? ;)

Lime Sherbert Bathroom

So, I have been MIA the last few days.  Well, MIA from the blogosphere.  I have been doing home improvement projects.  My carpeting part of the stairs is finally done!  I repainted the bathroom to a "fresh guacamole" which looks more like a "lime sherbert."  (Actually the picture makes it look more like, well, never mind.  Oh well.  We're doing repairs to sell our house soon, so I'm taking advantage of the long weekend.

Printable Deals

I'm going to lump these all into one post here, so bear with me.

Yes, I know the picture is huge and cut off, but doesn't this look so delicious?  This is the E! Entertain-mint Birthday Blend to celebrate E!'s 20th birthday.  They're offering a 20% off coupon to Cold Stone Creamery.  Go here to print the coupon that is good until June 30th.

Print a coupon for free shredding (up to 5 lbs) through June 5th at Office Depot.

Thanks, STL Mommy!

I've ammassed a lot of these lately, but if you haven't, go here to print a coupon for a free full size body item with a $10 purchase at Bath & Body Works.  They're currently having a Buy 3 Get 3 Free Sale so you can turn this into Get 4 Free.  They're also advertising up to 50% off certain items for a Memorial Day Sale, so you may be able to do better.

Farm Fresh Double Coupons Wednesday

There's still not a new ad on-line for Farm Fresh, but if some of the same things happen to be on sale, here are some things you can possibly get free or cheap if you're headed that way tomorrow anyway.

The matchups are with final price, assuming you go Wednesday. Remember, for any items Farm Fresh has priced 2/$X, you can buy 1 and get it half price.

Jumbo Snow Crab Clusters 5.98/pound
They'll season and flavor these free.

Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ Sauce 1.00
$1/2 (05/23 Smart Source)
Buy 2, final price 2 Free

Oscar Mayer Basic Lunchables 1.00

Oscar Mayer XXL or Beef Franks (16 oz) 2/$5
$1/2 (05/16 Smart Source)
Final Price 1.50 each

T. Marzetti Premium Vegetable Dips 2/$7
.60 cents off 1 (05/23 Smart Source)
Buy one for 2.30

Sargento Sliced Cheese 2.99
$1/2 (05/23 Smart Source)
Buy 2, $2 each

Dean's Dips 1.99
$1/2 printable
Buy 2, 1.00 each

KC Masterpiece Marinade 2/$5
$1/1 (05/09 Smart Source)
Buy 1, total .50 cents

Suddenly Salad 1.29
$0.40/1 Coupons.com
$0.50/2 (05/23/10 Smart Source)
Depending on which you have, either .49 for one or .80 each for two

Post Cereals 2/$5
$1/2 (05/16/10 Smart Source)
$1/2 Kids' cereal (05/16/10 Smart Source)
Total 3.00 for two

Uncle Ben's Country Inn Rice 1.29
$1/2 (05/16/10 Red Plum)
Total .60 for two

Dove Bars and Minis 3.99
$1/1 (05/16 Red Plum)
Total 1.99

Paint Rebate

This is a good time to get this since I need to repaint my bathroom.  With a long weekend coming up, this gives me no excuse.  Well, to buy the paint anyway.

Starting on Thursday, May 27th at Home Depot, purchase Glidden and Behr paint products so you can submit for one of the rebates below. Note the purchase period is only goes for 5 days, so you must purchase paint by May 31st.


$5 off One Gallon Cans
$20 off Five Gallon Pails

You’ll need purchase the paint between 5/27/10-5/31/10.

Behr Interior and Exterior Paints and Primers, Decorative Finishes, Waterproofers, Stains and Cleaners
Glidden Premium Interior and Exterior Paints and Gripper Primer
Flood Exterior Stains and Cleaners

You’ll be able to submit the rebate online or mail-in-rebate.
 
Thanks, My Litter!

Target 05/25 Saved $24.16

I'm having a duh day.  More on that in a minute.

I went to Target this evening and did pretty well.  I, of course, have no picture but did get an email today that my new camera has shipped!  Yay!  So you may get picture overload once it arrives. :)

I'll list some of my more fabulous things below:
3 Crystal Light drink mixes on sale 2.98 each
- used $1/3 from Target website
- and two $1 off coupons from the Facebook page
2 boxes of Fruit Loops and 1 box Frosted Mini-Wheats
- used $1/2 coupon from coupons.com (I left my $1.50 off 3 from the paper at home)
- got free Market Pantry Lactaid milk
(- and I have 3 codes so will get $5 concession cash)
This had to be adjusted off at customer service as it is off a regular gallon of milk, but I asked them about it at customer service before shopping and they said it should come off.  So the adjusted it off when it didn't.
1 Scrubbing Bubbles Extend-A-Clean 8.69
- used $5 off coupon from 04/11 Smart Source or printable
- AND used get a Target $5 giftcard when you buy Scrubbing Bubbles E-A-C from 05/23 Smart Source

They had a ton of frozen dinners literally thrown into a meat cooler.  I had a Target coupon for $1 off 5 Lean Cuisine dinners.  Great.  I'll buy Jimmy a few.  Coupon had to be pushed through at the register but cashier did it no questions asked.  Wonder why it beeped.  It's because I found out as I put them in my freezer, I bought 3 Lean Cuisines and 2 Healthy Choice dinners.  Duh.

Then at the register I got another coupon for $1 off 5 Lean Cuisine dinners (maybe I'll learn to pay attention one of these days--did all the clearanced ones have to be green and white, though?) and a coupon for a FREE Market Pantry frozen pizza.  No other purchase needed.  We don't eat much pizza, but I have bought a Market Pantry one before and thought it was pretty good.  It'll be good for a lazy Sunday night meal. :)

Total Before Tax $33.40
Total Savings $24.16

American Greetings Coupon

Go here to print a coupon for $1 off any 3 American Greetings cards priced $1 or higher.  Note, this will print on the entire page, so you'll need to use a full page.

Hurricane Tax Holiday

Today starts the beginning of Virginia's Hurricane Preparedness Sales Tax Holiday.  It runs May 25-31st.

Click here to find out a list of tax exempt items.  You can buy ice packs, batteries, cell phone chargers, and bottled water (any size, number of bottles, including flavored, carbonated, and vitamin water) among other things.  I know CVS has Sobe Lifewaters B1G1 free this week so I'm going to stock up on some tax-free.

Farm Fresh Double Coupons 05/26

This week Farm Fresh will be doubling coupons up to 1.00 on Wednesday only.

I had a list of matchups until I realized double coupons are Wednesday and the ad prices end Tuesday.  The newer ad isn't available online yet, but as soon as it is I'll try to get some matchups up.

Strawberries Galore

I got it in my head that it would be fun to go strawberry picking.  My sister bowed out, and she happened to be in North Carolina this weekend so thought it would be great for us to go.  Saturday was beautiful so my mom and I headed to Woods Orchard.  I knew I don't have a good grasp on measurements, but obviously I have no grasp on them!

We picked for an hour and ended up with 18 pounds of strawberries.  Umm, yeah, just a few. :)

Thankfully I had read Laura at Sharpen Your Scissors' post about flash freezing so now have some quart sized freezer bags full of strawberries.  I will be able to have strawberry-anything I want for the next year or so!

Overall it was fun and we'll probably go back to pick peaches in another month or two, once they're ready.  However, we will count as we pick, not just fill up the container they give us to use.

Walgreens Ad Sneak Peek 05/23 - 05/29

Here are some free or cheap coupon matchups for next week at Walgreens

Chex Mix .99 cents
- Use .50/1 from Pillsbury website

Starbucks Drinks 2/$4 with in-ad coupon
- Use 2 $1/ coupons from here  (bricks coupon so press the back button on your browser to print twice)

Scrubbing Bubbles Extend a Clean 7.99, receive $2 Register Reward
- Use $5 off printable

Dixie or Vanity Fair Plates and Bowls B1G1 Free
- Use $1/2 from 03/14 Red Plum

Hawaiian Tropic Products B1G1 Free
- Per ad, there will be a coupon for Hawaiian Tropic in Sunday's inserts

Aveeno Suncare $2 off
- Again, per ad there will be a coupon in Sunday's inserts

Good Ouchless Barettes or Flex Tip Headband on sale 2.99
- Receive a 2.99 Register Reward

Carefree Pantiliner 22 count .99 cents with in-ad coupon
- Use $1/1 from 04/25 Smart Source

Colgate Total 2.99
- Receive $2 Register Reward
- Use $1 off from April All You magazine
- Or .75 cents off printable

Chick-Fil-A Reservations Start Today

Okay, I swear the site originally said starting Monday, as did some other bloggers I'm now seeing, but the Get Spicy Chicken website is live today.  Go now to RSVP for your FREE Spicy Chicken sandwich.  You will choose location, date, and time frame.  They will e-mail you a reservation that you will have to print up and show along with ID on the date/time you choose.

Nylabone coupon

My sister forwarded me and email she received from Nylabone:

Check your Sunday newspaper this weekend for savings on NutriDent® Dental Chews!

A lot of times coupons can be regional, but I would assume this one isn't since it went out on their mailing list.  Frequently I see Nylabone on clearance so you should be able to get a great deal, or just wait for a sale.  Assuming your dogs can wait anyway. ;)

Big Savings at Walgreens 05/21

I would show you a picture, but, if you haven't heard, I kill cameras and my new one hasn't arrived yet.  My old one is not turning on with any batteries today, I can usually get it to work for a minute at a time.  It must know it's Friday, too. :)

I had a nice, happy go lucky cashier for my trip today.  He decided that since one clearanced folder was .50 the other one should be, too, even though it was a different brand.

2 boxes Shredded Wheat (16.4 oz) on sale 1.75 each
- used $1/2 from 05/16 Smart Source
4 Velveeta Cheese cups 1.00 each
- used two $1/2 from 04/25 Smart Source
- received a $1.50 Register Reward for buying 4, so worked out to .12 cents each
Rembrandt 2 Hour White 23.99
- used in ad coupon to bring it down to 9.99
- THEN used $5 off coupon from Rembrandt
V05 shampoo was on clearance for .39 cents
Revlon Creme Gloss clearanced to 5.19
- Revlon is B1G1 50% off this week
- used May Savings Book (available by sales ads when you walk in) to save $2 off each item
2 Folders clearanced to .50 cents each
2 Stride Gum 1.29 each
- used $1/2 from May Savings Book
- used B1G1 free from 05/16 Smart Source

Total Before Tax 14.66
Total Savings 48.57

Then I got a $1.50 off any 12 oz Gillette Body Wash coupon, $10 off any Sonicare toothbrush, $1 off any 2 Starbucks ice cream pints, and $5 off 4 Keebler's products.  Not too shabby!

Target Trip 05/20

Today was an exciting trip to Target! They were marking all kinds of things down to clearance.

Nivea bonus pack was clearanced to $4.66
- used $4 off coupon (can't find date or insert, sorry)
2 Old London Melba Snacks 1.79 each
- used $1/2 coupon on front of package
Fleishman's yeast clearanced to .81 cents
- used .40 cents off coupon (again, no insert info--I'm going to keep track, but only decided this two weeks ago and this was older)
4 Jello packs clearanced .62-.84 cents (They had a lot of flavors marked down--both pudding and jello.)
- used B3G1 free from Target site
3 Lean Cuisines clearanced to 1.38-1.44 each (Much better than 3.69!)
- used $1.00 off 3 coupon printed at register last week
Jergen's Glow 1.99 (travel size)
- used $2 off coupon from coupons.com
LA Looks on sale 1.57
- used $1 off from 03/07 Smart Source insert
2 Hefty One Zip .99 each
- used $1/2 from coupons.com

Total Before Tax $13.52
Total Coupon Savings $11.55

I also got a coupon that printed at the register for $5 off my next frozen food purchase of $20 or more.

Let's note how suprised my mom was I was buying yeast.  She was with me and said, really, you're planning on making bread?  Okay, I'm sure Jimmy would be just as suprised, too, but fresh bread looks and smells so good! :)

Target matchups

Deal Seeking Mom has some great Target matchups!  Go here to find 11 items under $1 (full size) and the links to any printable coupons you'll need.

Among the things you can get that cheap this week?  Crystal Light, Dove Body Mist, Kraft Salad Dressing, Oscar Mayer products.

Some other things, courtesy of Money Saving Madness:

Aquafresh Kids Pump Toothpaste (4.6-oz) $1.62

- 50¢/1 Aquafresh Target Store Printable Coupon
- $1/1 Aquafresh Kids Bubblemint Printable Coupon (register first, then click "coupons")
Final Price: 12¢

Rimmel Extra Super Lash Mascara $2.24
- $2/1 Rimmel Printable Coupon
Final Price: 24¢

Water Country USA Promo Offer

From Savvy Shopper:

Water Country USA is offering a pay-for-a-day promotion this season, giving unlimited park visits through Sept. 6 to customers who pay for one park visit.

The promotional offer is available to customers who visit the park before July 1.  A single-day admission ticket costs $42.95 for adults.

The water park opens for weekend play on Saturday, May 22. This year, the park will debut a new dive show, “Aquabatics," featuring trampoline acts, aquatic trapeze acts and high diving. In July, the park will offer five “Wipeout Weekends” featuring local music.

Daily operation begins Friday, May 28.

I'm excited about this.  I don't go enough to justify a season pass, but two or three times for the price of one sounds good to me!  I was already planning to go once this season, so this is a bonus! :)

Chick-Fil-A Spicy Chicken Reminder

Chick-fil-A is premiering the new Spicy Chicken Sandwich on June 7.  In the meantime, from May 31 - June 5, Chick-fil-A is giving a limited number of FREE Spicy Chicken Sandwiches to customers who make a reservation at Get Spicy Chicken.

I received an e-mail today from CFA, though, saying:

Stay tuned to your inbox on Friday for an exclusive Chick-fil-A Insider invitation. We're giving our Insiders the first opportunity to take advantage of an exclusive premiere tasting.

You can either sign up at Get Spicy Chicken on Monday or sign up for their e-mail list now to, I assume, sign up Friday.

Save Money by Leaving Your Husband at Home!

My husband called to tell me he'd be getting off a little early so if I didn't want to go alone he'd go to Farm Fresh with me.  How nice. 

Until...

• he started looking at his watch while I was waiting for the guy to package my scallops.
• and throwing things in the buggy.
• and throwing more things in the buggy.
• and throwing ridiculously expensive Healthy Choice meals into the buggy.  I told him to pick out some and did not realize until checking the receipt afterwards that they were 3.69 each!!  He got 7, so that was almost $28 of our grocery bill.  I assumed he'd check the price.  I assumed wrong.
• and asking were we done yet.
• and telling me at the checkout.  "Wow, that cost a lot.  I was expecting it to go down a lot more with your coupons."  I could have choked him.

I now remember why I prefer grocery shopping alone.

Needless to say, I did not take a picture of this failure of a trip.  I couldn't find a few things I was looking for because I had the timekeeper with me.  It wasn't very exciting, anyway.

Farm Fresh Coupon Matchups

There are a few potentially free products you can get tonight and tomorrow at Farm Fresh's triple coupons.

6 oz Tyson Chicken Strips B1G1 free (1/2 price if only buying one)
.55 off coupon (Smart Source 05/16/10)

Blueberries & Blackberries 3.33 each

4 for $5 Dawn Dish soap (or $1.25 each)
.25 off coupon (P&G 05/02/10)
OR .50 off coupon (Home Made Simple)

Jack Daniels BBQ sauce 1.99
.55 off coupon (Smart Source 05/16/10)

Mentos gum 1.00
.55 off coupon (Smart Source 04/25/10)

Yoplait 10 for $5
.40 off 6 coupon (Smart Source 05/16/10)

24 oz Hunts ketchup 1.00
.20 off (Smart Source 05/16/10)

Remember to also check for any of your coupons that are expiring at the end of the month that might be great tripled!

Farm Fresh Triple Coupons

I apologize I am just now getting this out.  Unfortunately I didn't read the Farm Fresh ad very well on Sunday.  Thankfully I read my Facebook wall and saw where Kris Klipper (this is her Twitter link) posted about triple coupons at Farm Fresh.

Today and tomorrow (Tuesday) Farm Fresh is tripling coupons up to .99 cents.

Up to 20 manufacturer coupons tripled per shopping visit.  Limit 1 coupon per item.  Maximum of two like items tripled per shopping visit.  Excludes coupons that state "do not double or triple."

Also, if you're a senior (55 and up), Tuesdays & Thursdays you can save an extra 5% off your bill (every week) which can be combined with double or triple coupons.  My mom makes a killing those days!  (Sorry, Mom, for revealing your age :))

I'll look at the ad and my coupons and see what good matchups I can find for you.

Oscar Mayer coupons

Coupons.com has released some great Oscar Mayer coupons, including $1/2 packages of lunch meat and $1/2 hot dogs.  I'd print them now and hold them.  Hot dogs should be going on sale soon for Memorial Day.

Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg 48 Hour Sale

My sister used to work here so we got to go to the waterpark a few times. It was a lot of fun!

Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg 48 Hour Sale
Save 10% when you book 1 night
Save 15% when you book 2 nights
Save 20% when you book 3 or more nights

Sale Dates: Tuesday, May 18 - Thursday, May 20 (11 am - 11 am) (EDT)

Use promo code: 48HOUR

Click HERE to get started.

Offer valid only at Williamsburg, VA location, May 17 - September 2, 2010. Valid per night for single or multiple night stays, must be mentioned at time of reservation. Limited number of rooms available for each date. May not be valid during holiday and blackout periods or combined with any other discount or promotional offers. Multiple night minimum stay may apply. Must book by May 20, 2010 and stay by September 2, 2010 for offer to apply. Offer based on 4 guests per room and may be terminated at any time without notice. Must have one individual 21 years of age or older staying in each room. Offer is not transferable and is not redeemable for cash.

Thanks, FudgeJumbles!

Quick Deals Roundup

60 prints for 6.99 at Walgreens now through Saturday, May 22.  Use code SUNNY at checkout then pick up in store.

Free sample from Kotex, go here to choose your sample pack.  These usually come with high value coupons (like the one I used at Rite Aid yesterday to sweeten my deal).

Free shipping at Kohls.com using code freeinmay.  Thanks, Mrs. Moneysaver!

Target.com has updated their coupons.  Go here to print some new ones, including $3 off Merona footwear.  Merona flip flops are reportedly on clearance in some stores, so you should be able to get a good deal.  Reminder that as long as they print up with the saying "Target web coupon" at the top, they can be combined with manufacturer's coupons.  You can print some manufacturer's coupons from the site, too.

Walgreens Savings 05/16-05/22

And here is the Walgreens list.  Check out the list of my favorites and then visit STL Mommy for the more complete list.

Select Post cereals 11-24 oz $1.75
-Printable Coupon save $2.00
-$1/2 from 5/16 Smart Source
Final Price: FREE - $1.25

Starbucks Frappucino 4-pks 2/$10
-$1/2 from May coupon booklet (available at front of store)
-$1 from 5/2 Smart Source
Final Price: $3.50 each when you buy two

Stride Shift Gum single pack 2/$2
-$1/2 from May coupon booklet
-B1G1 free from 5/16 Smart Source
Final Price: 2/FREE

Lysol Toilet Bowl Cleaner $2.99, B1G1 free
-$1 printable HERE (IE) or HERE (FF), use two
Final Price: 2/$.99

Kingsford Charcoal 6.7 lbs - 8.3 lbs $4.99
-Printable Coupon FREE Glad/KC Masterpiece/Hidden Valley Ranch product with purchase (must take survey)
Final Price: two products for $4.99

Raid Max Bug Barrier $8.99
-$2 from May coupon booklet
-$3 from 4/25 Smart Source
Final Price: $3.99

L'Oreal Color Riche lip color $4.99
-$2 from May coupon booklet
-$1 from 4/25 Red Plum
Final Price: $1.99

Tylenol Sinus or Cold & Flu $4.99
-Printable Coupon save $2
-$3 Register Reward when you buy two
Final Price: 2/$2.98

Revlon lip products from $6.99 B1G1 50% off = 2/$10.49
-$2 from May coupon booklet, will scan twice
-$2 from 5/2 Smart Source, use two
Final Price: 2/$2.49 or $1.25 each

Right Guard Deodorant, B1G1 Free $3.99
Printable Coupon save $3.00/2
Final Price, 2/$0.99

Pantene shampoo, conditioner or styling products 2/$7
-$2 RR on two
-$1 from 5/2 P & G - styling product
-$1/2 from 5/2 P & G - shampoo or conditioner
Final Price: as low as 2/$3

Select Poise or Kotex products 2/$6
-$2 RR on two
-$2 printable HERE (IE) or HERE (FF) - Poise
-$1.50/2 from 4/18 Smart Source
Final Price: as low as TWO FOR FREE

Zantac 24-30 ct $8.99
-$3 RR
-$3 from May ALL YOU magazine or $2 printable HERE
Final Price: $2.99-$3.99

Gillette or Old Spice Body Wash $4.49
-$4.49 RR
-B1G1 free from 5/2 P & G - Gillette or Old Spice
Final Price: two for FREE

Select Listerine or Reach dental care 3/$12
{Scenario}
(3) Reach Total Care toothbrushes = $12
-B1G1 free from 5/16 RP, use one
-$1 from 5/16 RP, use two
-$5.01 insert coupon (hand over last)
Final Price: 3/$.99

Listerine Whitening Quick Dissolving Strips or Rembrandt 2-hr Whitening $9.99 (with insert coupon)
-$3 from 1/3 RP - both
-Printable Coupon save $5 - Rembrandt (must sign up)
Final Price: $4.99-$6.99

Rembrandt Whitening toothpaste or mouthwash $7.99
-$3 insert coupon
-Printable Coupon save $3 (must sign up)
Final Price: $1.99

Bayer Aspirin 24-36 ct 2/$3 (with insert coupon)
-$1 from 3/21 Smart Source
Final Price: $.50

Select Claritin 24-30 ct from $21.99
-$4 with insert coupon
-$5 from 5/9 SS
Final Price: $12.99

Veet hair removal gel $6.99
May coupon booklet save $3.00
Printable Coupon save $3.00
Final Price: $0.99

Infusium 23, Repairologie Leave-In Treatment $4.99 (Regular Price)
All You magazine May save $3.00
May Coupon Book save $2.00
Final Price: FREE

CVS Deals for 05/16-05/22

I decided this would be the week I'd do good and get my drugstore match-ups done. Alas, it did not happen. However, there are some other great ladies who have done this. Check out the list of my favorites and then visit their sites for the more complete list.

CVS is courtesy of Money Saving Madness:

Blade 5 Razor System $6.99, Get $6.99 Extra Care Bucks Limit 1
Final Price: FREE!

Herbal Essences or Aussie $2.99 get $2 ECB Limit 2
-$1 Herbal Essences Shampoo, Conditioner or Styler products 5/16/10 Red Plum
-Aussie Shampoo or Conditioner - BOGO Aussie Styling product 5/16/10 Red Plum
Final Price: FREE!

Dawn Liquid Dishsoap $.83 each (12/$10)
-$1/2 or $.50/1 coupon from the 5/2 Proctor & Gamble
Final Price: $.33 each

Taster's Choice Stick Packs $.83 (12/$10)
-$.50/1 from the 2/28 Smart Source
Final Price: $.33 each

Maxwell House Coffee Buy 1 at $4.79, get 1 for $.01 (11-oz) Limit 6
Use TWO $1/1 Maxwell House from the 5/19 Smart Source
Final Price: $2.80 for 2

Tampax Pearl 36-40 ct $7.99, Get $2 ECB Limit 1
-$1/1 or $2/1 from the 5/2  Proctor & Gamble insert
Final Price: as low as $3.99

Colgate Pro Clinical $3.99, Get $2 ECB Limit 2
-$1/1 from the 5/16 Ssmart Source insert
Final Price: $.99

Prevacid 24 hr $24.99, get $5 ECB Limit 1
-$10/1 coupon from the Parade Magazine
Final Price: $9.99

Tone or Dial Bar Soap $1.88, Get $1 ECB, Limit 1
Final Price: $.88

Digiorno B1G1 for $.01 Limit 4

Colgate B1G1 for $.01 Limit 4

Cover Girl AmazeMint $5.99, B1G1 FREE
-$2.50/2 coupon from the 5/2 Proctor & Gamble
Final Price: $3.49 for two

Band Aid or Neosporin, Spend $7 - Get $3 ECB Limit 1
-$.50/1 or $1/1 Band aid coupon 4/25 Smart Source
Final Price: varies

Rite Aid Trip 05/15 & Video Values

Sorry this is late and won't really benefit you unless you run to the store in the next few hours, but I mainly want to highlight the great program that is "Rite Aid Video Values."  It's pretty tedious, but can save you a lot of money.  Every month they put up new videos with product coupons.  You basically watch a commercial and then get credit with a coupon.  Once you get 20 credit points you get a $5 off $20 coupon.  These coupons can be stacked with manufacturer coupons getting you the best out of pocket savings.  This month you can also get a bonus $5 off $25 coupon from the video values, also.

I have no picture because of my demon posessed camera.  It took the picture but now it won't load.  I'll try again later.

2 Ozone Swagger Body Wash sale 2.99 each
- less B1G1 free coupon (Proctor & Gamble 05/02)
Infusium 23 shampoo sale 3.99 (regularly 7.99! are you kidding me?!)
- less $3 off coupon (All You magazine May 2010)
Kotex products sale 2/$7
- less $1 off Video Values coupon
- less two $1 off manufacturer's coupons (from samples and packages)
Orbitz Gum clearanced to .64
2 Eclipse Gum clearanced to .64 each
2 lip glosses clearanced to .64 each

Less $5 off $20 coupon from Video Values
Total Before Tax 6.38
My Wellness Savings (their new program) was 15.03
Then my coupon savings was 13.99

Total Savings $29.02

THEN, I will get back a $3 Single Rebate Check for buying 2 Kotex products and a $1 Single Rebate Check for the Old Spice.  So essentially I only spent 2.38!

Rite Aid is expensive but if you go at the right time and use those video values coupons, you can save a ton!

One Hour Discovery Flight

This is a pretty cool Groupon today.  Remember Father's Day is coming up, as well as this doesn't expire for a year so could be saved for birthday, graduation, etc.

On your hour-long copiloted flight, leave the small world behind to coast aloft on an adventure of atmospheric exploration. How you use your time is up to you; spend some of the time piloting the mechanical bird or signal your cockpit companion to take over while you enjoy the high-altitude views. With no predetermined flight pattern, choose to fly over the coastline in search of pre-Columbian strip-mall fortifications, or simply breeze through the clouds in pursuit of undiscovered powerup blocks.

Tidewater Flight Center’s welcoming and knowledgeable instructors encourage wingless bipeds of all experience levels to gain a higher appreciation for the art of flying. Use your hour as a step toward a proper pilot's license or as a simple step out from a typical workweek riddled with inconvenient levels of atmospheric pressure.

You can get the one hour flight, a $199 value for $89.  The deal is good through Sunday so you have some time to think. :)  Go here to purchase.
** I have used at least 3 Groupons now and have had absolutely no problems with any of them.  I have 2 more sitting waiting to be used.  It is a great program!!

If you are local to Hampton Roads, there is a new program ScoopCoups started by some guys in VA Beach.  They've had some okay deals, but it doesn't seem as organized as Groupon.  But if you're looking for cheap stuff to do, it doesn't hurt to get the deals from both!  (Note: I have not used ScoopCoups so am just letting you know about it, not recommending it yet.)

Summer Reading Programs = Free Books

I hated summer reading programs, mainly because the "programs" consisted of mandatory summer book reports for school.  Blech.  But if you have a child who genuinely enjoys reading, here are a few programs to take advantage of this summer.

Barnes and Noble:  Kids, 12 and younger, read any 8 books and track then on the Passport to Reading form.  Once completed turn in your Passport in at your local Barnes and Noble before 9/7/10 and get a free book.  There are choices in both English and Spanish.  (Limit 1 form per child)

Borders:  With Borders' program children 12 and younger get a free book when they read 10 books.  All they need to do is track the titles they have read in the Double Dog Dare form.  Bring your completed form by your local Borders before 8/26/10 to claim your free book.  (1 coupon per customer)

Thanks, Common Sense With Money!

I Finally Ordered a New Camera!

Now I know that's nothing to alert the media about, but I'm excited!  My pictures will be better!  My camera will stay "alive" more than a minute!  I'll just be so much cooler all around!  I kid, I kid!!

The downside is it doesn't ship for 2-4 weeks because I wanted the blue which isn't currently in stock.  I really can't make anything easy for myself.  But I got what I felt was a good deal.  I used a $20 Target e-giftcard that I got for free using Swagbucks as my search engine.  Then I had a $5 off $50 coupon code from CouponCabin.  And the camera was on sale on top of that.

So, see, I saved money on it.  That was kinda on topic, right?

Save Money on Travel AND Do a Good Thing!

I just spent the last 20 minutes looking for the best price on a certain hotel.  I know exactly which one I want to stay in, my mom, sister, and I have a tradition of staying in a hotel in a different city for our birthdays.  I love hotels, I'm not going to lie.  I could travel for work if they put me up in nice hotels.  Alas, my job doesn't require any travel so I just enjoy the few times a year I get to stay in one!  I think it's the clean sheets and the fact I don't have to clean up after myself (within reason of course) and the pool and hot tub and possible continental breakfast.  Besides the price, what's not to love?

Well, now that you all know that, I'll get to the point.  I searched Priceline and this hotel didn't appear.  I searched the brand website and got a price.  I went through the NAMI travel site and got a price for $30 LESS.  Same hotel, same night, same beds.  Not only does NAMI travel save me money (I've booked vacations through them before with great success), but they get 60% of the booking commissions.

What is NAMI?  The National Alliance on Mental Illness.  Have you seen those recent magazine ads for BringChange2Mind with Glenn Close?  Do you know that 1 in 6 adults and almost 1 in 10 children suffer from a diagnosable mental illness?  Did you know The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that by the year 2020 mental illness will be the second leading cause of death and disability? (Source)

NAMI is "the most formidable grassroots mental health advocacy organization in the country."

NAMI's support and public education efforts are focused on educating America about mental illness, offering resources to those in need, and insisting that mental illness become a high national priority. Mental illness is a serious medical illness that affects one in four families. No one is to blame. Treatment works, but only half of people living with mental illness receive treatment.

So save yourself some money and support a GREAT cause!

Note:  Without going into detail, my family has been involved with NAMI a few years now, having both given money and been on the receiving end of services.  It is truly a wonderful organization and that commission they make from you will go to help a family or individual who truly needs it.  (As if saving money wasn't incentive enough! ;))

Great Giveaway for Girls!

I say for girls because I don't care how well-meaning my husband is, if he entered me in this contest I might deck him! ;)  However, I am happy to enter!  Who likes spending money on feminine hygeine products?  Ugh.  And those cookies look awesome!

The Coupon Goddess is hosting a great giveaway.  You can win a plethora of feminine hygeine products, some serious chocolate, cute homemade cookies, and a Victoria's Secret gift set and body bar.  WOW!!  So fun!

Go here to enter!  Be sure to browse around her blog, she's got a lot of cool things (and is super-funny to boot!)

Free Samples

Here are some free samples you can currently get from Wal-Mart (without having to go to the store!).  Often these samples include great coupons with them.

Free sample of new Old Spice Odor Blocker Bodywash from Wal-Mart.

Free sample of Dove Ultimate Deodorant.

Free sample of Secret Clinical Strength Deodorant.

Target Trip 05/11

Okay, let's be honest.  I think I need a chaperone when I go to Target.  They might as well forward my paychecks to Target every week instead of my bank.

I got a little carried away.  I actually had more I was going to buy but didn't realize until I pulled in the parking lot that I left some coupons in a separate pile at home.  Thus a good reason to file all your coupons away immediately.

Used Cutter B1G1 free coupon (now $1 off one, still on sale for ~3.50)
Starbucks drinks were on sale for 4.99 each and used $1 off coupons from the 05/02 Smart Source
Got Dentastix for .49 again, still on price cut and used more $2 off manufacturer's and $1 off Target coupons.
The Iron Man 2 plates are for my husband's upcoming birthday.  I mean, might as well have some fun?

Sorry this picture isn't better.  I'm still waiting for my $25 Target giftcard from Swagbucks to post so I can buy a new camera.  My current camera literally stays alive for 2 minutes at a time.  I have to take my pictures very quickly. :)

Anyway, these 2 roll packs of wrapping paper are on clearance at my store for $1.50 each.  They're really cute.  I think I'm stocked up on wrapping paper for a while now.  They also had matching 4 pack bags for $1.50 as well.  There are also boy patterns.

That was the Icee I decided I needed after that exhausting shopping trip! ;)
The French's mustard is a package of mustard with a honey mustard, too.  $1.27 and I used a .50 cent off coupon from this past Sunday.
Ortega salsas were $1.45 each (regular price), used $1/2 coupon.

Target finally has store brand Lactose-free milk!!  It is $2.99.

Jimmy Dean D-Light bowl on sale for $1.99, used a .55 cent off coupon (newspaper).

A co-worker just told me today she went to PF Changs the other day and how good it was.  Since I'm not heading to VA Beach or Richmond anytime soon, I was happy to see their meals for 2 were on sale for $4.99 this week (normally 7.49 so will be definitely trying this tomorrow and heading back to stock up on more if I like it!!)

Total Before Tax 67.44
Total Savings 16.58

Restaurant.com Discount Code

I thought about titling this post "saving money when eating out" but realized it might be misleading.  I only have three tips: order water, use a coupon, and order the lunch portion when possible.

However, if you're looking for a cheap way to try somewhere new, I've got the deal for you!

The image explains it, but I'll elaborate a little. :)  Restaurant.com teams up with restaurants in your local area (country-wide) to offer discounts on food.  Some restaurants have different stipulations than others.  My favorites are the $25 off when you spend $35 that you pick up for $2 (with the 80% off code).  You essentially spend less than $25 when all is said and done.  Some require a $50 purchase, etc.  You have to go look around to see what each one offers.  The restaurants change frequently, so if you don't see anywhere you like this month, check again next month.

It's been a great way for me and my husband to find good restaurants or find those that we'll probably never try again.  (The sports bar that wasn't real great, the seafood restaurant that was out of half of the menu on a Saturday night!)  We like eating at the Firkin & Frigate so I bought a few of those.

Free Dunkin Donuts Coffee

Sorry for the lack of posts this weekend.  I was working on home improvement projects.  We are in the process of putting an offer on a house.  I am getting closer to finished with the stairs.  It was going good until I realized I didn't cut the carpet to cover the back flap of the overhang.  And somehow I had no white paint.  Or a paintbrush, although I was going to just use a toothbrush I got free at the beginning of the year.  So off to Lowe's I went.  Now I just need to cut and staple the overhang and it will be my husband's turn to cut and glue the spindles.

Anyway, if you are in one of these areas you can get a free small Dunkin Donuts iced coffee tomorrow:

Baltimore, MD, Charlottesville, VA, Cleveland, OH, Harrisonburg, VA, Norfolk, VA, Washington, DC, Youngstown, OH, Pittsburgh, PA, Richmond, VA, Roanoke, VA, Salisbury, MD, Philadelphia, PA, or Phoenix, AZ

If you're not, you can still get cheap coffee.  Don't forget Starbucks is running half priced drinks now - May 16th.  My sister treated me and our mom to one yesterday!  It was good!

Store Review: Dollar Tree Market

I've been meaning to write this for over a week now, I'm finally getting around to it.  Kind of like I've been meaning to finish my stair project for a month now and finally got around to getting it 85% done today.  Sigh.

One of my coworkers asked me to check out Dollar Tree Market and see if it would save her any money.  First, let me have The Virginian-Pilot explain what this is and how it is different.  (Note: the only one in the country is at 4107 Portsmouth Blvd in Chesapeake, VA.  It is a pilot program, so you may or may not ever see this.  It is my review if you are nearby or if it ever does branch out.)

"Inside, it carries a wider array of products akin to a traditional but small supermarket, with fresh foods ranging from steaks to fruit. It also has an expanded housewares section and baked goods made on premises, including custom-ordered cakes, said Chelle Davis, spokeswoman for Dollar Tree, based in Chesapeake.

Dollar Tree Market sells many products for more than a dollar, unlike traditional Dollar Tree stores."

I was really excited to go in and buy food for $1 or less.
Disappointment #1:  While some things were only $1, most weren't.
#2:  I was shocked at how high some of the prices were!
#3:  It was a weird mix of items in one store without being a "full" store.  The regular Dollar Tree is still down the street in the normal location.
 
Like #1:  The produce was fresh.
#2:  They do accept manufacturer's coupons, unlike the "regular" store.
#3:  The staff, including corporate (based out of Chesapeake), was friendly.

I bought two things.  I got a pound of Butterball ground turkey for $2.15.  The cheapest I've seen it elsewhere is 2.99.  So that was good.  I bought a pack of 5 boneless, skinless chicken breasts for close to 6.00.  Not such a good deal.  I only bought it because that was the only ingredient missing for dinner that night and it would save me a trip anywhere else.  (This is what happens when you try to make a grocery list from memory and haven't checked the stockpiled meat in your freezer lately.)
 
Is it going to save you money?  Yes and no.  Yes, on certain items (strawberries were 1.50, ground turkey, bread).  No, if you try to buy the majority of your groceries there.
 
They did have a wide selection, you could even buy wine and crab legs there.  Overall, though, while they're able to offer some great prices in the "regular" store, this store does not offer the same.  I saw some prices in there higher than at Farm Fresh or Kroger on a non-sale day.  I was really more disappointed than impressed.  So, shop at your own risk, but know that you're not necessarilly getting the best price.

CVS Deals Week of 05/09

Schick Hydro 3 or Hydro 5 Razor or Cartridge, $8.99
Get $4 ECBs (Limit 1)
$5/1 Schick Hydro Razor, exp. 6-12-10 (SS 05/09/10)
Better than FREE after coupon and ECBs!

Crest Pro Health Toothpaste or Rinse, $3.50
Get $3.50 ECBs (Limit 2)
$0.75/1 Crest Toothpaste, exp. 5-31-10 (P&G 05/02/10)
Better than FREE after coupon and ECBs!

Right Guard Sport, Total Defense or Dry Idea, $2.49
Get $2 ECBs (Limit 2)
$3/2 Right Guard Total Defense 5 printable
$1/1 Right Guard Total Defense 5 printable
$1.50/1 Right Guard Total Defense Deodorant printable
Better than FREE after coupon and ECBs!

U by Kotex, $4.99
Get $4.99 ECB (Limit 1)
$1/1 Kotex U Liners, exp. 5-30-10 (SS 04/18/10)
$1/1 Kotex U Pads, exp. 5-30-10 (SS 04/18/10)
$1/1 Kotex U Tampons, exp. 5-30-10 (SS 04/18/10)
$1/1 Kotex U Tampons or Liners, exp. 5-30-10 (SS 04/18/10)
$1/1 Kotex U Product, exp. 6-30-10 (ALL YOU Apr '10)
Better than FREE after coupon and ECB!

Carefree Pads, 10/$10
$1/1 Carefree Product, exp. 6-30-10 (SS 04/25/10)
FREE after coupon!

Bayer Low Dose (32 ct.), 10/$10
$1/1 Bayer Aspirin or Heart Health Advantage, exp. 6-30 (SS 3/21/10)
FREE after coupon!

All Hawaiian Tropic Products, $9.99
Get $5 ECBs (Limit 1)
$1/1 Hawaiian Tropic Sun Care Product printable
$1/1 Hawaiian Tropic Suncare Product, exp. 7-31-10 (SS 04/25/10)
$1/1 Hawaiian Tropic Sun Care Product (Reinventing Beauty, Mar)
$3.99 ea. after coupon and ECBs!

Cottonelle Bath Tissue (12 Double Rolls), $4.99 (Limit 3)
$0.50/1 Cottonelle Toilet Paper printable
$0.50/1 Cottonelle Toilet Paper printable
$0.50/1 Cottonelle Toilet Paper printable (IE)
$0.50 off Cottonelle Toilet Paper, exp. 5-29-10 (SS 04/18/10)
$1/1 Cottonelle Toilet Paper, exp. 5-31-10 (ALL YOU Apr '10)
As low as $3.99 ea. after coupon!

Pepsi Products (2 liter), $0.88 (Limit 5)

Select Kellogg's Cereals, $1.88 (Limit 4)
$1/2 Kellogg's Cereals printable
$1/2 Select Kellogg's Cereals, exp. 5-23-10 (RP 04/11/10)
$1/3 Select Kellogg's Cereals, exp. 5-23-10 (RP 04/11/10)
$1.50/2 Select Kellogg's Cereals, exp. 5-9-10 (RP 03/28/10)
As low as $1.13 ea. wyb 2 after coupons!

Mentos (15 ct.), $0.99
$0.55/1 Mentos Gum, exp. 5-31-10 (SS 02/21/10)
$0.55/1 Mentos Gum, exp. 7-31-10 (SS 04/25/10)
$1/2 Mentos Gum, exp. 7-31-10 (SS 04/25/10)
As low as $0.44 ea. after coupons!

Nescafe Taster's Choice, 10/$10
$0.75/1 Nescafe Taster's Choice printable
$0.50/1 Nescafe Tasters Choice Product, exp. 5-28-10 (SS 02/28/10)
As low as $0.25 ea. after coupon!

Thanks to Deal Seeking Mom for these CVS matchups.

Mother's Day Deals

In addition to the ones I already posted, here are some free and well, not free, things for Mom on Sunday:

Many Cold Stone Creamery stores will be giving away a free ‘Creation” sundae to moms on Mother’s Day. I would recommend calling your local store ahead of time to find out if they are participating in this promotion.

Use the printable coupon here to get a free meal at Smokey Bones for mom with the purchase of another entree on May 9, 2010.

All mothers who eat at any Fleming’s location on May 9 will receive a free $25 gift card to use on a future visit. There will be a special brunch from 11:30am – 3:00pm, so be sure to make a reservation.

Dine at Champps on Mother’s Day weekend, May 8th-9th, using this coupon and your meal will be free (purchase of an entree required).

But wait, there’s more! Every mom who dines will receive a gift card worth $165 ($15 each month for a year)!

Want to really maximize your savings? Use this gift card on their half-priced burger nights (Sunday and Monday) and you’ll make that $15 go quite far each month!

Money Saving Mom has these and more posted here.  I only highlighted the ones within 50 miles of Hampton Roads.  Note to self: spend Mother's Day closer to Richmond next year!
Where are you going?  Or are you cooking or doing something else special?  We're taking my mom to Carrabba's.  Yum, I can't wait!!

Peninsula Town Center/City Center at Oyster Point May Activities

I've expressed that I'm not impressed by the "new mall" (Peninsula Town Center).  It still hasn't grown on me.  However, it seems like they are doing a lot of activities to try to compete with City Center at Oyster Point.

You can sign up for their e-mail for updates as well as a chance to win a giftcard to one of their stores every month.  Anyway, some of the things they have coming up are:

Music to Honor the Armed Forces
Saturday, May 15th
1:00 pm in the Town Square
Please join us on Saturday, May 15th as the Salvation Army Band and Peninsula Town Center honor the Armed Forces with a special musical performance in Town Square. This event is free and open to the public and begins at 1:00 pm.

See PTC from the Air
Monday, May 31, 2010
5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Come join the Memorial Day fun at Peninsula Town Center on Monday, May 31, 2010 from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m. Two hot air balloons will take off for tethered rides at a cost of $5 per person. Advanced same-day registration is required. Weather permitting. View details here.

Strolling performers
Weekends in May
Noon to 4:00 PM, Mother's Day 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
Strolling performers, including jugglers, face painters and balloon artists will be entertaining guests throughout the Town Center!

Saturdays in the Square
Saturdays May 29 - Sept. 4
Noon to 4:00 PM
Music, family-friendly activities, fountain fun!

Then, City Center has:
May 7, 2010; 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., May 8, 2010; 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m
Sidewalk Sale
Mariners Row - Retail District
Take your pick from a variety of great seasonal items. This is a great time to shop for Mom. Enjoy live entertainment. Free parking. Free Admission.

May 14, 2010; 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Fridays @ The Fountain
City Center Fountain Plaza
The River Boyz. Begin your weekend here. Join us for City Center’s Friday Concerts by our region’s best bands. Bring your friends, lawn chairs, blankets, and dancing shoes. Free Parking. Free Admission. Sponsored by BOB FM.

May 21, 2010; 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Off the Record.

May 28, 2010; 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
Butter.

Target Trip 05/06 and a Recipe

When I went for ear drops and lemonade last night, I mentioned I may have gotten sidetracked...

I found some Market Pantry drink mixes on clearance for 1.88
I also did the Dentastix deal again, getting them for .49 cents.
I thought the shrimp looked good, so that ended up in my buggy at 8.99
That mess of stuff beside the lemonade is Market Pantry boneless, skinless chicken breasts which are marinading in freezer bags.  They were marked at 7.19 but rang up on sale for 5.79.

Not too much else exciting to report.  I got black beans to go in Texas Caviar* but forgot to grab the blackeyed peas, so none of that this weekend.

Total Before Tax 46.51
Total Coupon/Sales Savings 10.39

Texas Caviar Recipe
1 bottle Italian dressing
1 can Rotel tomatoes
1 can yellow corn (drained)
1 can white corn (drained)
1 can black beans (drained)
1 can black eyed peas (drained)
Scallions (optional)

Mix together and chill overnight.  Serve with tortilla chips.

Seasonings Clearance at Target

When I went to Target this evening to get ear drops and lemonade, I noticed that they had a ton of seasonings clearanced.  A lot of them were the McCormick gourmet collection.  Most of the ones I noticed were $2 or less.  (Note that the spices are nowhere near the pharmacy or lemonade.  I'll have that trip up sometime tomorrow.)  If you're a good cook and use these, you might be interested.