Saving For Two

Stockpile Pitchers fer I ♥ Publix Forum Friends

2011-04-14T18:29:00.029-04:00

Garage: 60 cans of dog food.

This stockpile should last about 4-5 months.

Also in the garage: 24 rolls of paper towels (and some cat litter). With four cats it's hard to keep litter on hand. My husband and I use paper towels sparingly. These should last us 7-8 months. Got these by rolling ECBs at CVS. Paid very little for them (the paper towels)
Fridge: Pretty much the only stockpile in my fridge right now is pudding cups. My husband takes one in his lunch every day. Recent sales and coupons put them at about $1.30 each. I like getting them for less than $1, but I'll stock up whenever they are not full price. Oohh, you can see some of my 50¢ Sargento cheese in the cheese drawer underneath!
Freezer: You can't see this very well, but there are a LOT of smoothie bags on this shelf. Love them. Stocked up months ago I usually have one for breakfast on the go on weekend mornings when I head out to do my shopping. And this is the tail end of my Whole Fruit sorbet stockpile. I think I got about 10 a few months ago when they could be had for 50¢ each at Publix.

Freezer: Two favorites. Weight Watchers treats and Morning Star Farms chicken nuggets. What you can't see: in the back of these two shelves are lots of Green Giant and Birdseye frozen veggies, and about 8 bags of Sargento shredded cheese.

Literally, a drawer full of Gold'n Plump all natural chicken. Yikes, I just read on a thread that I shouldn't freeze them in the store packages. I'll get on that. My husband and I don't eat a lot of red meat. And I like to get as "natural" chicken as possible. Nearly every week, Super Target has some variety of Gold'n Plump Chicken on sale -- and there are almost always $1/1 coupons on smartsource.com. I have thighs, breasts, legs, and even wing drumettes in my stockpile right now.
Spare bedroom closet: Far left row and along the back are body washes. Love them. Fructis shampoo-conditioner-in-one are for the hubby. His favorite. You can see a few shaving creams and deodorants in the basket. Not a lot.

Better view of the basket. Then, lotions (a whopping 3!) and then my favorite shampoo and conditioners (Pantene and Aussie). Most of this stuff I get for dirt cheap at CVS by combining sales, coupons, and rolling ECBs.

I use a spare drawer in my bedroom for oral hygiene products. Most of this stuff ends up being free in the drug store game at CVS.
Oohhh, my girl stuff drawer (also in a spare drawer in my bedroom). You can see I'm pretty brand loyal to Tampax, U by Kotex, and Carefree. All the Carefree were free. Not a huge stockpile here. The sales and coupons are plentiful.And, finally, the main place I stockpile is in the downstairs office, which has a full wall worth of closet. Along the top here you can see pasta boxes, croutons, coffee, and tea.
Crackers, granola bars, cookies (all those great 30¢ bags of Goldfish Grahams), peanut butter (brand loyal to Peter Pan), and 2! jars of jam/jelly. Nothing extravagant here. I might have to give some of that peanut butter away.
Oatmeal, lots of free Jolly Time popcorn (most will be given away soon), juices, more crackers and granola bars.
(begin sarcasm) Hey, look everyone. TWO mustards! Not 75! (end sarcasm). I need to rebuild my applesauce stockpile. And we use very little condiments. Hence, just 1-2 each of BBQ sauce, salad dressing, and mayo. I love apple cider vinegar.
I haven't bought tomato sauce in over a year. Love all those 11¢ Muir Glen cans I got last year at Publix. We also must have Craisins. I'm on my last two boxes of chicken broth -- all bought some time last year. Husband loves V8. I stocked up on the recent BOGO w/coupons sale.
Yes, yes...I got tons of free Finish. And I count 7 boxes of cereal here. There's about 4 more boxes in the regular kitchen cupboards. We like cereal.
Beans and rice. All free. Every single can and every single bag. FREE.
Lots of storage bags, foil, dish soap, and just a few baked goods items. We don't eat a lot of cakes. But I keep a few mixes on hand.
All free Kleenex. I go through a lot at work. These are to take to my office. And my doggie loves his Milk Bones. I won't have to buy any for a long time with this stockpile.
Ohhh, the gum, candy, and mint drawer. We hardly ever eat candy. But we go through a lot of gum and mints. The Mentos were all free at CVS. The gum is always dirt cheap with sales + coupons.

My sweet doggie Boo!!!

Not Feelin' It

2011-02-21T10:10:00.003-05:00

I have to admit that I'm in the midst of major coupon burn-out right now.

I'm still fervently couponing and hitting my three major stores each week: Publix, CVS, and Kroger -- but I'm not as excited about it lately.

I think I'm the only person in all of the U.S. southeast who is NOT excited about Italian Days at Publix. I don't need any more pasta, pasta sauce, bread crumbs, chicken broth, soup....

I will say this, however, I was able to get lots of that Sargento shredded cheese for 50-cents per bag. That was definitely worth a trip to the store.

So, I'm going on a self-imposed break. I'm going to devote some time to myself and my husband and not spend a lot of my evenings and weekends consumed by hunting down coupons, printing them, clipping them, chasing deals, and then returning home to take pictures and sit at the computer to log every detail regarding price, coupons, savings, etc. *Sigh*

On the new agenda: movie nights, walks in the park, helping the hub with yardwork (it's good bonding time), deep spring cleaning, volunteering at a humane animal shelter, reading, playing Scrabble, and communicating more with friends and family. Wow, just looking at that list makes me realize how much couponing DETRACTS from my life.

Cheers.

Good Deals at Target

2011-02-13T20:31:00.004-05:00

(6) Purina Whisker Lickins cat treats
89¢ each - $1/1 IPs = FREE + overage
(only 4 are pictured. i got more coupons and went back for 2 more)

(4) Finish dish soap
$2.50 each - $2.25/1 MQs = 25¢ each

(2) Simply Orange juice
$3.04 each - $1/1 IPs = $2.04 each

(2) Gain fabric softener
$4.19 each - $3/1 MQs = $1.19 each

Publix - Week of 2/13

2011-02-13T16:14:00.004-05:00

(4) Yoplait Fiber One Yogurt 4-packs
$1.25 each - 50¢/1 MQs (doubled to $1) = 25¢ each

(2) Clorox toilet bowl cleaners
$1.67 each - $1/1 IPs = 67¢ each

(20) Mentos (only 10 are pictured, made a second trip)
50¢ each - (10) x 50¢/1 MQs (doubled to $1) = FREE*
(Bought 20, used 10 coupons. Not looking for overage. Just wanted as many as possible for free.)

(2) Smart Balance spread
$1.40 each - $1.25/2 IP = 78¢ each

(4) Starbucks ice cream pints
$2.08 each - $1/1 IP = $1.08 each

(5) Jello Pudding 6-packs
$2.00 each - 75¢/1 IPs = $1.25 each

(1) Old El Paso tortillas
$1.00 - $1/1 IP = FREE

(1) Friskies Party Mix cat treats
$1.34 - $1/1 PQ = 34¢

(1) Nature's Own Sandwich Thins
$1.50 (no coupons)

(2) Publix Salad
$4 (no coupons)

(3) Reach Floss (not pictured)
$1.49 each - $1/1 MQs = 49¢ each

(6) Goodlife Recipe for Cats treats (not pictured)
$1.50 each - 50¢/1 MQs = 50¢ each

(2) AJCs
$3 (no coupons)

Paid: $31.28
Saved: $74.60
70% Savings

CVS 2/13

2011-02-13T16:00:00.003-05:00

(3) 12-packs of Diet Coke (not pictured) = $10
(2) Listerine Total Care 500ml = $7.98
(2) Colgate Sensitive Whitening = $7.58
(2) Excedrin = $13.98

Total: $39.54

Used:
16 ECBs
75¢/1 MQ for Colgate (x2)
$2/1 MQ for Listerine (x2)
$5.99/1 MQ for Excedrin Migraine
$5.99/1 MQ for Extra Strength Excedrin

Total Coupons: $33.48

Paid: $6.06 + tax
Earned: $17.58 ECBs

Publix & Kroger Week of Jan. 30

2011-01-30T10:38:00.009-05:00

Kroger Mega Event: Saved 84%

Not pictured:
(5) 12-packs Diet Coke
$4.00 each - Free item Qs = ALL FREE
First free pack: Kroger sale: B3G1
Other 4: Free Item Coupons earned from My Coke Rewards

(2) Kettle Brand Chips
99¢ each - $1/1 MQs = FREE

(2) Hood Simply Smart Milk
$2.89 each - $1/1 MQs = $1.89 each

(1) Finish
$3.19 - $2.25/1 MQ = 94¢

(2) BirdsEye Steamfresh
$1.69 each - $1/2 MQ = $1.19 each

(4) Honest Tea
75¢ each = 50¢/1 IPs (dbld to $1) = FREE + $1 OVERAGE

(1) Kraft 2% Singles
$1.69 - $1/1 IP = 69¢

Paid: $9.78
Saved: 46.66

Publix - First Trip - Saved 74%
Did Everyone get their FREE potatoes?! :-)

(4) Morning Star Farms Chicken Nuggets
$1.98 each - $1/1 MQs = 98¢ each

(4) Eight O'Clock Coffee
$2.95 each - $1/1 IPs = $1.95 each

(2) Tasteful Selections Honey Gold Potatoes
$2.00 each - $2/1 IPs = FREE

Paid: $12.38
Saved: $35.62

Publix - Second Trip - Saved 60%

(3) Morning Star Farms Chicken Nuggets
$1.98 each - $1/1 MQs = 98¢ each

(4) Eight O'Clock Coffee
$2.95 each - $1/1 IPs = $1.95 each

(2) Tasteful Selections Potatoes
$2.00 each - $1/1 IPs = $1 each

(2) Cottonelle toilet tissue (not pictured)
$3.49 each - 50¢/1 IPs (dbld to $1) = $2.49 each

(1) Borden cheese singles
$2 - $1/1 IP = $1

(2) Fresh Express Salad
$2 each

Grape tomatoes, $2

Bananas (not pictured), $1.88

Paid: $27.52
Saved: $41.02

CVS 1/23

2011-01-25T10:41:00.003-05:00

This week: Beverages, granola bars, and mouthwash for $8 OOP. Even trade on ECBs.

(2) Honest Teas
$1.50 each - 50¢/1 IPs = $1.00 each

(8) Vitamin Waters
$1.50 each - B1G1 IPs (x4) = 75¢ each

(3) Nature Valley Granola Bars
$3.33 each - 50¢/1 IPs = $2.83 each

(1) Crest Pro-Rinse
$3.99

Used $13.00 ECBs/Earned $12.99 ECBs

Paid: $8.23
Saved: $24.77
75% Savings

CVS 1/21

2011-01-21T21:55:00.003-05:00

I saw that Dove body wash could be gotten for $1 so I ran out to see if I could find it. I did. I also used the last of my $1/1 Kleenex coupons to pick up these oval holiday packs that were on clearance for $1 each.

4 Dove body washes
$1.99 - $1/1 IPs = 99¢ each

2 Kleenex
$1 - $1/1 MQs = FREE

Paid: $4.56
Saved: $12.38
73% Savings

Publix 1/21 (Incomplete)

2011-01-21T21:37:00.004-05:00

I will make a second trip to another Publix to get more sorbet, yogurt, nuts, and mozzarella. All of these items were in limited supply at my regular Publix tonight and I didn't want to be an ugly shelf-clearer. :-)

Oh, and there were ZERO Homestyle Kraft mac and cheeses. I'll have to look for those elsewhere.

(2) Wise potato chips
$1.90 - 50¢/1 IPs (dbld to $1) - 90¢ per bag

(5) Fancy feast
55¢ each (no coupons)

(2) Quaker Instant Oatmeal
$1.49 - $1/1 IPs = 49¢ each

(2) Polly-O Mozzarella
$3 - $1/1 IPs = $2 each
Argh! I just saw that there is a Publix Q in the YAB flyer that starts TOMORROW that I could have stacked with this! Oh, well. SUCH an amateur move. :-)

(5) Whole Fruit Sorbet
$1.45 - 50¢/1 IPs (dbld to $1) = 45¢ each

(3) Yoplait Yo-Plus 4-packs
$1 - $1/1 IPs = FREE

(2) Blue Diamond almonds
$1.60 - 50¢/1 IPs (dbld to $1) = 60¢ each

Paid: $13.54
Saved: $39.52
75% Savings

Publix 1/16

2011-01-20T19:56:00.005-05:00

Price listed is after sales & coupons:

(2) Power of Fruit: 70¢ each
(3) Jello-O Pudding 6-packs: $1.30 each
(2) Coffee Mate: 50¢ each
(2) Smucker's Preserves: 60¢ each
(1) Publix plain yogurt: 45¢
(2) Glad Force Flex w/Febreze: $2.49 each
(2) Kleenex: 25¢ each
(5) Finish Tabs: 74¢ each
(10) Jolly Time popcorn: FREE
only 5 are pictured -- i made a second trip for 5 more the next day
(2) Ocean Spray Craisins: $1.13 each
(1) Kraft Singles: $2.24
(1) Cucumber: 89¢
(1) Fresh Dill: $1.99
(1) Pepperidge Farm Oatmeal bread: $1.95
(1) Arnold Sandwich Thins: $1.50
(1) SoBe: FREE

Paid: $30.24
Saved: $85.26
74% Savings

CVS 1/16

2011-01-19T10:16:00.004-05:00

I have lots more of the B1G1 Hersheys/Kit Kat/Reese's coupons. Combining them with the CVS B2G1 deal makes them three for 89¢ (or 30¢ each). Soooo, I may go back sometime this week and get more Hershey's bars. I have lots of graham crackers and marshmallows. I see s'mores in my near future.

(2) Fancy Feast (small cans) - 50¢ each
(2) Valentine M&M bags - $2.50 each
(1) Christmas M&M bag - 99¢ on clearance
(1) Tom's of Maine mouthwash - $3.99
(1) Kellogg's Raisin Bran - $1.79
(1) Crest Pro-Health toothpaste - $2.99
(3) Hershey's chocolate bars - 89¢ each
(4) Orbit gum packets - $1.29 each

Coupons used:
$1/2 M&Ms
75¢/1 Crest
70¢/1 Kellogg's
B1G1 Hershey's
B1G1 Orbit (x2)

ECBs used/earned:
$7.50/$8.00

Paid: $7.44
Saved: $27.19
79% Savings

Publix This Week

2011-01-12T13:18:00.007-05:00

I was snowed in all week, as well. This is what I picked up on Sunday morning before the storm hit -- trapping us with plenty of milk, cereal, peanut butter, hot cocoa, and 9-Lives for the cats! :-)

(2) Smart Balance milk
$2.50 - $1/1mqs = $1.50 each

(4) Smart Balance milk
$2.50 - 75¢/1mqs = $1.75 each

(1) Jala frozen yogurt bars
$2.00 on sale (no coupons)

(1) Skinny Cow frozen treats
$4.50 - $1/1mq = $3.50

(4) Yoplait Smoothie frozen mixes
$1.60 - $1/1mqs = 60¢ each

(1) Marzetti caramel dip
$3.49 full price

(6) Peter Pan peanut butter
$1.25 - $1/1 mqs = 25¢ each

(7) 9-Lives cat food 4-packs
$1.34 - $1/3 mqs = $1.01 each

(1) California Sun Dried Tomatoes
$3.49 on sale (half-price)

(4) Muir Glen tomato sauce
89¢ - $1/2 mqs = 39¢ each

(2) Swiss Miss Cocoa
$1.99 - $2/1 mqs = FREE

Kashi Go Lean Crisp
$3.89 - $3/1 mq = 89¢

(6) Kellogg's Special K cereal
$1.68 each - B1G1 mqs x 3 = 84¢ each

(1) Kellogg's Special K cereal
$1.68 - 70¢/1 mq = 98¢

Paid: $44.04
Saved: $74.04
63% Savings

CVS 1/9/11

2011-01-11T15:58:00.004-05:00

Here's what I got at CVS this week:

1 Snicker's bar
89¢ - $1 ECB = -11¢

1 Reese's minis
$1.59 - $2 ECBs = -41¢

1 Duracell AA 4-pack
$2.99 - $2/1 MQ = 99¢

Used 3 ECBs/Earned 3 ECBs

Paid: 70¢ OOP
Saved: $7.10
91% Savings

I have a story akin to Missy's over at Bonkers for BOGO's. I so appreciate that there are great blogs, like Simply CVS, to manage customer's experiences.

I went to my regular CVS on Sunday morning and they were already all out of Finish dish detergent. I had seven $2.25/1 coupons so this was going to be a nice MM for me. I got a raincheck but then decided to try another CVS just a few miles further down the road.

I got there and I was pleased that they had 7 boxes. I took them to the checkout and the young cashier saw what I had and immediately started shaking her head before I was even able to put them down on the counter. "Oh, no, ma'am. You can only get THREE. The manager says he is putting a limit of THREE of each item because he doesn't want the shelves cleared!"

She was raising her voice and was quite indignant. I could tell that she thought I was going to put up a fight or something. I'm not one for confrontation, but I did say this to her (quietly and calmly and rationally and as a consumer): "But the deal is that you have to buy $20 worth in order to get the $10 ECBs. I have to buy this many in order to reach $20."

Her response, "But you can only get THREE of these! You'll have to get the rest from the other items."

Me, still calm: "But I don't need any of the other items. I just need dish soap. And does the ad say that there is a limit on what I can get?"

Her: "No, but the MANAGER said!"

Several things have happened in my life recently that have reminded me quite humbly to not sweat the small stuff. This was definitely small stuff, so I left the boxes on the counter and told her, "Ok, thanks. I won't be shopping today here, then." And I left knowing that I had my raincheck in my coupon box and I could stop at my regular friendly CVS before Feb. 21 (when the coupons expire) to get my 7 boxes of Finish without a hassle.

Still, under other circumstances I might have asked to speak to the manager and told him/her that if the product was in the store, and I was willing to buy it, why would they prevent that? Why would they NOT want to make a big sale? *Sigh*

I did write a letter to CVS and mailed it. Again, I didn't want to call them on the phone because I didn't want to run the risk of anything escalating into ugliness. Why do managers think that they own the products in their store? Why do they take it as a personal affront that we want to make their lives miserable by buying multiples of one item? I just don't get it.

Publix & Kroger 12/12

2010-12-16T09:54:00.006-05:00

Not the greatest of savings, but I got some meat and a few other things that my husband absolutely must have, whether or not there is a sale and/or coupons, like Jell-O pudding cups for his lunch and yogurt cups for his mid-morning snack.

KROGER:

(2) Kroger Corn Flakes
$1.67 each
God love my husband. This is his favorite cereal. I have a huge stockpile of a variety of healthy, good, name brand cereals and he insists on having these Kroger Corn Flakes. *Sigh*

(1) Bounty paper towels
$1.59 - 25¢/1 MQ (dbl to 50¢) = $1.09
I had $1 e-coupon loaded to my card but it didn't work. :-(

(2) DayQuil/NyQuil travel packs
$1.59 each - $1.50/1 MQs = 9¢ each

(1) Puffs tissues
$1.49 - free item coupon* = FREE
*B2 Vicks products, get Puffs tissues free Q from P&G insert

(1) Kroger sliced turkey lunch meat
60¢
My kitty cat isn't eating much. I got this for her to see if she would eat it. She did!

(1) Horizon Low-Fat Egg Nog
$2.99 - 55¢/1 MQ = $2.44
My husband's absolute favorite egg nog. He's been begging me for some. I haven't seen it at Publix. Glad I found it at Kroger!

(1) Ivory body wash
$1.99 - 25¢/1 MQ (dbl to 50¢) - $1.49

(2) Pantene Shampoo & Conditioner
$3.44 each - B1G1 Free MQ = $1.72 each

(1) Laura's lean ground beef
$5.19

PUBLIX:

(4) Smart Balance Milk
$2.50 each - $2/1 MQs = 50¢ each

(2) Green Giant Frozen Vegetables
$1 each - 50¢/1 IPs (dbl to $1) = FREE

(2) Phillips Crab Cakes
$4.50 each - $2/1 IPs = $2.50 each

(1) Jell-O pudding 12-pack
$4.99

(1) Dannon Light & Fit Yogurt 4-pack
$2 - 50¢/1 IP (dbl to $1) = $1

(2) Fiber One Yoburt 4-pack
$2.50 each - 50¢/1 IPs (dbl to $1) = $1.50 each

(2) Boneless chicken breast
$3.50 each

Paid: $42.00
Saved: $52.58
56% Savings

CVS 12/12

2010-12-13T10:43:00.003-05:00

Ooohh, I spent some money this week!

2 Crest Pro-Health toothpaste
$2.99 each - 75¢/1 MQs (x2) - 4 ECBs = 24¢ each
Earned back 4 ECBs

1 Gillette Fusion shave gel (4 oz)
$1.99 - $2/1 MQ (P&G Insert) = FREE
I wasn't sure if the coupon would work for this size. But it came right off. No beeps. Since I have several more of the P&G inserts, I might make my way back this week to get a lot more of these.

1 Clear Care contact solution
$8.99 - $3/1 MQ - 2 ECBs = $3.99
Earned back 2 ECBs
My husband MUST have this brand for his contacts. So this is a good price.

2 Gillette Fusion Pro-Glide razors
$10.99 each - $4/1 MQs (x2) - 5 ECBs = $4.49 each
My brother's favorite razors. I'm putting together a big Christmas basket for him including these, the shaving gel, a bunch of body washes and toothpaste from my stockpile, and more.

Paid: $15.80
Saved: $27.08
63% Savings

Publix 12/2

2010-12-02T15:03:00.008-05:00

Both my husband and I woke up today (Thursday) with bad head colds. We stayed home. I slept until noon, woke up, did a shot of cold medicine, and went to Publix. Of course! The timing on the Theraflu deal couldn't have been better.

(2) Pepperidge Farms Milano Cookies
$1.70 each - $1/1 IPs = 70¢ each

(1) Finish dish detergent (32-count gel pacs)
$3.50 - $1/1 IP = $2.50

(3) Silk Soymilk*
$2.50 each - $1/1 Publix Qs - $1/1 IPs = 50¢ each
* there are only two in the picture, but I made a second trip on Friday to get another one.

(2) House Autry Corn Meal Mix*
$1.19 each - $1/1 IPs = 19¢ each
* there is only one in the picture, but I made a second trip on Friday to get another one.

(2) Idahoan Potatoes
63¢ each - 40¢/1 IPs (dbld to 80¢) = 34¢ money maker

(2) Theraflu
$5.39 each - $5/2 Publix Q - $2/1 MQs = 89¢ each

Paid: $7.30
Saved: $31.39
81% Savings

CVS - Thanksgiving

2010-11-26T09:25:00.007-05:00

When I walked into my CVS at around 9am on Thanksgiving morning, my favorite cashier yelled to me from across the store, "I've been waiting for you!" (They opened at 7am.) That made my whole day.

I did one transaction.

I got everything pictured above for $2.07 out-of-pocket.
I saved $34.98
I used $26 ECBs and earned back $26 ECBs.
94% Savings

Publix & Kroger 11/20

2010-11-21T14:24:00.005-05:00

Great deals, as usual, thanks to I Heart Publix/Kroger. I rely on those blogs so much to tell me what to buy. My favorite deals this week: cheap Planters nut mix, 59-cent milk, big sugar/low price, and Bic lighters for less than a quarter each.

From Kroger:

(2) Glade carpet fresheners
$2 each - $2/2 MQ = $1 each

(1) Kroger Sherbet
$2.50 - 40¢/1 Kroger Q = $2.10

(3) California Pizza Kitchen pizzas
$3.50 each - $2/1 MQs = $1.50 each
earned a $2 catalina

(1) Dixie Sugar (4 lb)
$2.50 - 50¢/1 MQ (dbl to $1) = $1.50

(1) LaCroix Sparkling Water (12-pack)
$3.50 on sale - $1.25/1 MQ = $2.25

From Publix

(1) Ocean Spray Juice
$1.50 on sale (no coupon)

(1) Avocado
$1.50 - $1.50 (free item Q) = FREE

(2) Smart Balance milk
$3.59 each - $2/1 MQs - $1/1 Publix Q = 59¢ each

(3) Birds Eye Steamfresh
89¢ each - $1/3 MQ = 56¢ each

(1) Breakstone sour cream
$1 - 55¢/1 MQ = 45¢

(1) Planters nut mix
$2.15 each - $1/1 MQ = $1.15

(1) Crisco spray
$2 - $1/1 MQ = $1

(2) Muir Glen Fire Roasted tomatoes
$1.69 each - $1/2 Publix Q - 75¢/1 MQ (x2) = 44¢ each

(3) Bic multi-purpose lighters
$1.75 each - $1.50/1 MQs = 24¢ each

(1) Nature's Own Bread
$1.75 - 75¢/1 MQ = $1

Paid: $24.11
Saved: $45.55
65% Savings

Kroger 11/16

2010-11-16T20:48:00.005-05:00

Thank you to Michelle at I Heart Kroger. Kroger is so confusing to me that even after nearly two years of mega-couponing, I still can't always figure out the deals by myself. She always lights the way and I'm grateful for her beacons.

(5) Duracell AA 4-pack batteries
$1.98 each w/card - $1.50/1 MQs (x5) = 48¢ each
Paid $2.40 and earned a $3 catalina
Therefore, 60¢ overage

(3) Carmex
$1 each - 30¢/1 MQs (x3, dbl to 60¢) = 40¢ each

(1) Charmin 12-count double roll TP
$6.99 w/card - $3 ecoupon - 25¢ MQ (doubled to 50¢) = $3.49

(1) Pepperidge Farm stuffing, $2.50

(1) Kroger Sherbet, $2.50

Paid: $13.50
Earned: $3 Catalina
Saved: $22.76
65% Savings

Publix 11/11

2010-11-12T10:07:00.007-05:00

I was off from work on Thursday. It was a treat to shop at Publix early on a Thursday morning. Everything was in stock. The store was not crowded. And my cashier was super nice. Bonus.

(6) Alexia Sweet Potato Fries/Onion Rings
$2.50 each on sale - $1/1 MQs = $1.50 each
I love these. Considering that they are normally priced at close to $4 per bag, this is a good stock-up price for me.

(4) Athenos crumbled feta
$1.99 each on sale - $1/1 MQs = 99¢ each

(2) Nestle morsels
$1.48 each on sale - $1/2 MQ = 98¢ each

(1) Glade scented oil candle refills
$1.75 on sale - $1/1 MQ = 75¢

(2) Muir Glen fire roasted tomatoes
$3.38 for both - $1/2 Publix Q - $1/1 (x2) MQs = 38¢ for both or 19¢ each

(2) Glade candles
$1.75 each on sale - $2/2 peelie = 75¢ each

(2) Angel Soft 9-count mega roll bath tissue (not pictured)
$5.49 each - 50¢/1 MQs (dbl to $1) = $4.49 each

Also in this post from WALGREENS:

(2) Sunsweet Dried Apricots
$2 each on sale - 75¢/1 MQs = $1.25 each
My husband loves dried apricots. It's hard to keep them stocked for him. This is a good price.

Paid: $29.05
Saved: $37.10
56% Savings

Publix 11/7

2010-11-07T11:24:00.007-05:00

I had to go to three different Publix stores before I found Krusteaz Chocolate Chunk cookie mix.

BEST DEALS THIS WEEK:

(5) Krusteaz cookie mixes
$1.10 each - $1/1 MQs = 10¢ each

(4) Hood Simply Smart Fat Free Milk
$1.80 each - $1/1 MQs = 80¢ each

(1) Smart Balance Milk
$3.59 - $2/1 MQ - $1/1 Publix Q = 59¢

(6) Fiber One yogurts (4-pack)
$1.25 each - 50¢/1 MQ (dbl to $1) = 25¢ each

(2) Progresso black beans
99¢ each - 50¢/1 MQ (dbl to $1) = FREE

(1) Nature's Own bread
$1.40 - 75¢/1 MQ = 65¢

(2) Scotch Mail Tape
$1.75 each - $1/1 MQ = 75¢ each

(3) Jennie-O So Easy Turkey entrees
$2 each - 55¢/1 peelies = $1.45 each

(6) Ocean Spray Craisins
$1.13 each - $1/2 peelies = 63¢ each

(2) SOLO paper plates (44 count)
$2.19 each - 75¢/1 MQs = $1.44 each

MORE GOOD DEALS:

(2) Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers, $1.20 each

(2) Nabisco Graham Crackers
$2 each - $1/2 MQ = $1.50 each

(2) Publix salad bags, $2 each

(1) grape tomatoes, $2

(1) Publix canned pumpkin, $1.59

(1) Nabisco Ginger Snaps, $4.19
Ouch - maybe i should have waited for a sale.
I'm going to make this for Thanksgiving dessert.

Paid: $37.53
Saved: $78.30
68% Savings

CVS 11/7

2010-11-07T11:10:00.004-05:00

I have four more of the Gain $1/1 coupons. I'll make a second trip this week to get four more.

(4) Gain dish soap
99¢ each - $1/1 MQs (x4) = FREE

(1) Noxema face wash
$4.49 - $3 ECBs = $1.49
earned back 3 ECBs

(1) Kleenex 110-count tissues - 89¢

(4) 12-packs Diet Coke (not pictured)
$13 - $9 ECBs = $1 each
earned back $3 ECBs

Paid: $6.38 + tax
Saved: $30.32
83% Savings

CVS 10/31

2010-10-31T21:54:00.004-04:00

(6) Purex
$4 each - $3/1 MQs (x6) = $1 each

(1) Puffs
$1 - 25¢/1 MQ = 75¢

(2) Secret deodorant trial size
$1.50 each = $3

(1) Old Spice Body Spray
$4.99 - $4.99/1 MQ = FREE
(MQ: Buy 2 Secret, Get 1 Old Spice Body Spray Free)

(1) Olay Body Wash
$7.00 - $3 ECBs - $5/1 MQ = FREE + $1 overage
(MQ: Buy 1 Secret, save $5 on Olay body wash)
(Used $3 ECBs/Earned $3 ECBs)

(1) Oral B battery toothbrush
$5 - $2ECBs - $3 MQ = FREE
(Used $2 ECBs/Earned $2 ECBs)

Paid: $11.35
Saved: $65.52
85% Savings

Publix 10/31

2010-10-31T21:31:00.006-04:00

Top Picture - ALL FREE

(2) Olivio
$1 each - $1/1 IPs = FREE

(2) Progresso Black Beans
99¢ each - 50¢/1 IPs (doubled to $1) = FREE + 2¢ overage

(2) Muir Glen Fire Roasted Tomatoes
$2.50 for both - $1/2 Publix Q - 75¢/1 IP(x2) = FREE

(4) Ronzoni Garden Delight Pastas
90¢ each - $1/1 MQs = FREE + 40¢ overage

Bottom Picture - Great Savings

(8) V8 Juice
$1.48 each - $1/2 IPs = 98¢ each

(1) Cascadian Farm granola bars
$2 - $1/1 Publix Q - 75¢/1 MQ = 25¢

(5) Cascadian Farm granola bars
$2 each - 75¢/1 MQs (x5) = $1.25 each

(8) Hefty quart bags (22-count)
$1.15 each - $1/2 MQs (x4) = 65¢ each

(2) Starbucks Ice Cream pints
$1.90 each - 75¢/1 IPs = $1.15 each

(2) Pioneer Brown Gravy mixes
79¢ each - 55¢/2 MQ = 52¢ each

(2) Milkbone Essentials
$1.85 each - $1.50/2 MQ = $1.10 each

(4) Arm & Hammer toothpaste
$1.50 each - $1/1 IPs = 50¢ each

(1) Wholly Guacamole
$2.59 - $1.50/1 IP = $1.09

(1) Pillsbury Savorings
$1.92 - $1/1 IP = 92¢

(1) Oscar Mayer Carving Board Ham
$3.50 - $1/1 Publix Q - $1/1 IP = $1.50

Paid: $30.05
Saved: $92.23
75% Savings

Target !?

2010-10-21T21:38:00.008-04:00

Target was more than decent to me today. I must say I was very surprised (and pleased) that ALL my coupons went through without a hitch -- and I even used several Target coupons paired with manufacturer coupons for certain items. I saved 59% on everything pictured above, plus a box of cat litter (too heavy to carry in from the garage).

(1) Downy Simple Pleasures
$4.49 on clearance - 25¢/1 MQ - $1/1 Target Q = $3.24

(4) Quaker Oats instant oatmeal
$2.50 each - $2/1 IPs (x4) = 50¢ each

(1) Celestial Seasons box of tea bags
$2.04 on sale - $1/1 MQ = $1.04

(2) Edge shave gels
$2.24 - $1/1 Target Q = $1.24
$2.24 - $2.24 (B1G1M Q) = FREE
Or, 62¢ each

(1) Charmin bath tissue
$8.99 - 75¢/1 Target Q - 25¢/1 MQ - $7.99

(8) Pedigree dog food cans
97¢ each - B1G1 MQs (x4) = 49¢ each

(1) Fresh Step Cat Litter (21 lbs)
$8.10 on clearance - $2/1 Target Q = $6.10
great price for litter

(3) Market Pantry green chiles
72¢ each - $1.50/3 Target Catalina = 22¢ each

(2) Good Life Recipe cat food trays
69¢ each - B1G1 Target Q = 35¢ each

(1) Bic Mark-It markers (36 count + free gel pen)
$4.74 on clearance - $5/1 MQ (adjusted to -$4.74) = FREE

Paid: $23.35
Saved: $33.74
59% Savings

More CVS Week of 10/17

2010-10-21T21:26:00.005-04:00

Second trip this week.
Tried several other CVS stores to find the toothbrush.
Finally got it!

(10) Mentos
B1G1 $1.79 - $1/1 MQs = [$1.05 overage]

(1) Oral B Vitality Rechargeable Toothbrush (rain check)
$23.00 - $13 ECBs - $10 MQ = FREE
Got back 13 ECBs

(2) Sponges, kitchen & bath (filler items)
$4.78

Paid: $5.79 OOP
Saved: $41.85
88% Savings

FREE Bic Markers Set

2010-10-21T21:07:00.011-04:00

Things like this hardly ever happen for me. I really really really lucked out on this one:

I stopped at Target to pick up a prescription and some other items we needed. I decided to look through my coupon box and check on the prices of a few things, including these markers, since I was able to print the $5/1 coupon.

The label said this set was on clearance for $13.28. I figured, ok, I'll pay $8.28 for a huge set of nice markers that are normally priced at $19 and that will make a very nice Christmas gift for my mom (a school teacher).

[Aside: Every year, I have ALL my Christmas shopping completed BEFORE Thanksgiving.]

Back to the marker story...So imagine my utter surprise and glee when these rang up at $4.74. And my coupon adjusted to -$4.74. FREE!!!

Woo hoo!

Get to your local Target, ladies and gentlemen. Start scouring around in the markers section. I found this one buried under a bunch of similar sets of multi-colored Sharpies.

CVS 10/17

2010-10-17T14:01:00.003-04:00

(6) Nutri-Grain Cereal Bars
Sale: 3/$10, earn 5 ECBs
$20 - 10 ECBs - $1/2 IP(x3) = $7 or $1.17 per box

(6) Mentos Gum
Sale: B1G1 Free, $1.79 each
$10.74 - $5.37 (B1G1) - $1/1 MQ(x6) = 63¢ overage

(1) Schick Hydro 3 Razor
Sale: $8.99, earn 5 ECBs
$8.99 - 5 ECBs - $4/1 MQ = FREE

Used 15 ECBs/Earned 15 ECBs

Paid: $6.59 OOP
Saved: $39.30
86% Savings

Equivalent: Paid about 51¢ per item.

Publix 10/16

2010-10-16T11:48:00.006-04:00

(2) Coffee Mate
$1.67 each - $1.50/1 IPs = 17¢ each

(4) Smart Balance milk
$2.50 each - $2/1 MQs = 50¢ each

(3) 4C Grated Parmesan Cheese
$2.99 each - $2/1 MQs = 99¢ each

(1) Kettle Chips
$2.50 - $1/1 MQ = $1.50

(1) Breyer's Smooth & Dreamy Ice Cream Sandwiches
$4.29 - $1/1 Publix Q - $1/1 IP = $2.29

(1) Klondike bars (B1G1 on sale)
Paid half price = $1.80

(2) Fresh Express Salad Blends
$2.00 each - 55¢/1 IPs = $1.45 each

(3) Vidalia onions
Paid full price = $3.01

(1) Grape tomatoes
Paid full price = $3.49

(2) Simply Potatoes (B1G1 Sale)
Paid half-price = $1.25 each

Paid: $23.67
Saved: $37.38
61% Savings

Kroger 10/13

2010-10-13T18:56:00.006-04:00

Got $5 off for buying 10 participating items in the Mega Event. The first price listed is AFTER the Mega Sale discount.

(4) Coffee Mate Creamers
$1.29 each - $1.50/1 IPs = FREE + 42¢ overage

(2) Idahoan Potatoes
$1 each - $1/1 IPs = FREE

(3) Sister Schubert's rolls
$1.99 - 50¢/1 MQs (doubled to $1) = 99¢ each

(2) Jell-O Pudding 6-packs
$1.79 - 35¢/1 MQs (doubled to 70¢) = $1.09 each

(1) New York ciabatta rolls
$1.99 - 50¢/IP (doubled to $1) = 99¢

(1) Garlic chili sauce = $2.79*
(1) Dole pineapple juice 6-pack = $2.49*

* I love this chicken recipe. Was craving it so I got the juice and chili sauce. Made it for dinner on this day! The New York ciabatta rolls also made an appearance at this meal. :-)

I like figuring out how much each item cost based on my OOP and the number of items I bought. In this case, I bought 14 items and paid $11.11 OOP, which means I paid about 79¢ per item. I love it.

Paid: $11.11 OOP
Saved: 26.40
70% Savings

Free Stuff - October

2010-10-10T19:37:00.036-04:00

Here's all the stuff I got for free in the month of October:

Coke Zero (20 oz) from Kroger
$1.49 - $1.49 (Kick Off to Savings Game) = FREE

Candy corn from CVS
99¢ - 99¢/1 CVS Q = FREE

(2) Colgate toothpaste from CVS
$2.99 each - $6 ECBs = FREE

(2) Reach floss from Target
97¢ each - $1/1 MQs = FREE

Old Spice body wash from Target
$2.99 - B1 body wash G1 Free MQ = FREE

(6) Progresso black beans from Publix
99¢ - $1/1 IPs = FREE + overage

(1) Haas avocado from Publix
$1.69 - $1.69 (free item Q) = FREE

(2) Hidden Valley Ranch Farmhouse Originals dressings from Publix
$1.73 each - $2/1 IPs = FREE + overage

Schick Hydro 5 Razor from CVS
$8.97 - $4 MQ - 5 ECBs = FREE

ReNu Contact Solution from CVS
$7.99 - 8 ECBs = FREE

Schick Hydro Shave Gel from CVS
$3.99 - $3.99 (free item peelie) = FREE

(4) Coffee Mate Creamers from Kroger
$1.29 each - $1.50/1 IPs = FREE + 42¢ overage

(2) Idahoan Potatoes from Kroger
$1 each - $1/1 IPs = FREE

(6) Mentos Gum from CVS
B1G1 $1.79 - $1/1 MQs = FREE + 63¢ overage

(1) Schick Hydro 3 Razor from CVS
Sale: $8.99, earn 5 ECBs
$8.99 - 5 ECBs - $4/1 MQ = FREE

Free Bic Marker's Set (36-Count) from Target

(10) more Mentos from CVS
B1G1 $1.79 - $1/1 MQs = FREE + $1.05 overage

(1) Oral B Vitality Rechargeable Toothbrush from CVS
$23.00 - $13 ECBs - $10 MQ = FREE

(1) Old Spice Body Spray from CVS
$4.99 - $4.99 = FREE
(MQ: Buy 2 Secret, Get 1 Old Spice Body Spray Free)

(1) Olay Body Wash from CVS
$7.00 - $3 ECBs - $5 MQ = FREE + $1 overage
(MQ: Buy 1 Secret, save $5 on Olay body wash)

(1) Oral B battery toothbrush from CVS
$5 - $2ECBs - $3 MQ = FREE

(2) Olivio from Publix
$1 each - $1/1 IPs = FREE

(2) Progresso Black Beans from Publix
99¢ each - 50¢/1 IPs (doubled to $1) = FREE + 2¢ overage

(2) Muir Glen Fire Roasted Tomatoes from Publix
$2.50 for both - $1/2 Publix Q - 75¢/1 IP(x2) = FREE

(4) Ronzoni Garden Delight Pastas from Publix
90¢ each - $1/1 MQs = FREE + 40¢ overage

Kroger & Publix

2010-10-10T11:13:00.008-04:00

Stopped in at Kroger for some good deals:

(1) Coke Zero 20 oz
FREE from the Kick Off to Savings instant win game

(1) Playtex tampons
$2.50 - $2/1 IP = 50¢

(2) Cascadian Farm granola bars
$2.99 - $1/1 IPs = $1.99 each
A special request from my husband. He loves these.

Then it was off to Publix (two trips) for more great deals:

(1) Haas avocado from Mexico
FREE (Free item coupon)

(6) Progresso black beans
99¢ each - 50¢/1 IPs (doubled to $1) = FREE + 6¢ overage

(2) Hidden Valley Ranch Farmhouse Originals dressings
$1.73 each - $2/1 IPs = FREE + 54¢ overage

(4) Sea-Pak Shrimp
$3.80 each - $1/1 MQs = $2.80 each

(1) Organic Valley milk
$3.50 - $1/1 MQ = $2.50

(2) Breyer's Yo-Crunch 100 calorie packs
$2.69 each - B1G1 Publix Q - 75¢/1 MQs = 60¢ each

(2) Vigo saffron rice
$1.29 each - $1/1 MQs = 29¢ each

(2) Muir Glen tomato sauce
89¢ each - 75¢/1 IPs = 14¢ each

(1) Dannon Activia desserts
$2 - $1/1 MQ = $1

(1) Sorrento Mozzarella cheese
$3 - $1/1 Publix Q = $2

Total OOP: $23.70
Saved: $58.43
71% Savings

Publix 10/2

2010-10-03T16:53:00.005-04:00

(8) Pedigree dog food
99¢ each

(2) Ocean Spray
$1.50 each - $1/2 peelie = $1 each

(2) Breyers ice cream
$2.50 each - $1.25/2 MQ = $1.88 each

(2) Nature Valley Value Size Granola Bars
$2.75 each - $1/1 IPs = $1.75 each

(1) Purina One cat food
$5

(3) Old El Paso items (2 beans, 1 tortillas)
$1.25 each - $1/1 IPs = 25¢ each

(5) Kraft chunk cheese
$2 each - $5/5 IP = $1 each

(2) Publix salad
$2.50 each

(1) Grape Tomatoes
$3.29

(1) Sunday AJC
$2

(1) Nature's Own Bread
$1.75 - 75¢/1 IP = $1

Paid: $40.78
Saved: $38.78
49% Savings

Kroger 10/3

2010-10-03T16:40:00.005-04:00

I bought 10 participating items and saved $5 off my total bill.

(3) Jell-O Pudding 6-packs
$2.29 each - 35¢/1 MQ (doubled to 70¢) = $1.59 each
Less 50¢ each for Buy 10/Save $5 promotion: $1.09 each

(4) Jell-O Pudding 6-packs
$2.29 each - $1/1 IPs = $1.29 each
Less 50¢ each for Buy 10/Save $5 promotion: 79¢ each

(2) Kraft Light/Fat Free Dressings
$1.99 each - $1/1 IPs = 99¢ each
Less 50¢ each for Buy 10/Save $5 promotion: 49¢ each

(1) California Pizza Kitchen Pepperoni Pizza
$4.49 - $1/1 Catalina = $3.49
Less 50¢ each for Buy 10/Save $5 promotion: $2.99

Paid: $10.87 OOP
Saved: $26.60
71% Savings

CVS 10/3

2010-10-03T16:27:00.003-04:00

1 Revlon nail polish
$3.99 - 3 ECBs = 99¢

1 Schick Hydro 5 Razor
$8.97 - $4 MQ - 5 ECBs = FREE

1 Schick Hydro Shave Gel
$3.99 - $3.99 (peelie) = FREE

1 ReNu Sensitive Contact Solution
$7.99 - 8 ECBs = FREE

Used 16 ECBs/Earned 16 ECBs

Paid: $2.45 OOP
Saved: $27.01
92% Savings

Publix 9/24

2010-09-24T19:29:00.006-04:00

Great deals this week for me and my husband. We love Smart Balance milk, Craisins, avocados, Green Giant veggies, Egg Beaters, coffee, yogurt, cookies, cheese sticks....I'll have to round up more coupons and go back for more of everything before this week's sales are over. All of this stuff (with sales and coupons) is at stockpile price for me!

Paid: $24.17
Saved: $94.99
80% Savings

(6) Smart Balance Milk - 50¢ each
(8) Craisins - 13¢ each
(2) Crunchmaster crackers - 50¢ each
(3) Maxwell House coffee - $1 each
(1) SoBe Lifewater - FREE (free item coupon)
(1) Avocado - FREE (free item coupon)
(4) Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers - 20¢ each
(2) Wonka Pixy Stix - 75¢ each (clearance shelf; Halloween!)
(4) Nestle Cookie dough - 45¢ each
(4) Yoplait Fiber One 4-packs - 25¢ each
(2) Egg Beaters - 67¢ each
(1) International Delight Coffee Creamer - 50¢
(1) Farm Rich Mozzarella Sticks - $2.75
(2) Gorton's Fish - $2.50 each

CVS - 9/19

2010-09-22T13:41:00.006-04:00

The only items I really paid for here were the juices. And this is only because my husband cannot be without some Ocean Spray in the house and I couldn't find a better sale and/or coupons for them anywhere else. I am most satisfied with this week's CVS trip.

Paid: $7.61 OOP
Saved: $58.32 (according to my receipt)

(2) Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice
2/$6 - Used 1 ECB/Earned 1 ECB = $5.00 for both

(2) Quaker Instant Oatmeal
2/$5 - $1/1 MQs (x2) = $3
Used 2 ECBs/Earned 2 ECBs = $1 for both

(3) Right Guard Total Defense 5
$2.99 each - $1.50/1 IPs = $1.50 each
Used 6 ECBs/Earned 6 ECBs = [$1.50 overage]

(2) Edge Infused Shave Gel
$2.79 each - B1G1 IP = $1.40 each
Used 2 ECBs/Earned 1.80 ECBs = 79¢ for both

(3) Revlon Super Lustrous lipsticks
$6.99 each - $2/1 IPs = $4.99 each
Used 15 ECBs/Earned 15 ECBs = FREE!

Publix - Saved 50%

2010-09-12T18:21:00.006-04:00

My percentage savings isn't up in the 70s as it usually is. But, hey, I don't mind saving a solid 50% on weekly groceries -- especially when I bought meat and produce.

(4) Pillsbury Toaster Strudels
$1.10 each - $1/2 IPs = 60¢ each

(1) Smart Balance 50/50 Buttery Spread
$2 - $1/1 MQ = $1

(2) Bailey's Coffee Creamers
$1.25 each - $1/1 IPs = 25¢ each

(1) Old El Paso Refried Beans
$1.47 - $1/1 IP = 47¢

(2) Old El Paso Taco Seasoning Mix
75¢ each $1/1 IPs = [-50¢ overage]

(1) Old El Paso Tortillas
$1.99 - $1/1 IP = 99¢

(2) Betty Crocker Cookie Mix
$1.34 - 40¢/1 IPs (doubled to 80¢) = 54¢ each

(2) Dial Nutriskin Body Washes
$2 each - $1/1 IPs = $1

(1) Pam Cooking Spray, $1.65

(1) Publix Half and Half, $1

(1) Gallon Publix Milk, $2.49

(2) Ground Sirloin, $7.53

(1) Thin cut Pork Chops, $2.76

(1) Grape Tomatoes, $2.99

(2) Fresh Express Salad Blends, $2 each

(1) bag baking potatoes, $2.99

Onions, $2.47

Bananas, $1.21

Peaches, $3.65

Paid: $41.70
Saved: $40.12

Good Rebate Week

2010-09-10T10:39:00.006-04:00

I got three rebates in the mail this week. They take so long to process, I forget that I mailed-in for them. It's nice that three converged in the same week.

Schick Hydro Razor rebate: $8.97

Lowe's Rebates: $20 gift card + $10 rebate check = $30

Over Memorial Day weekend, my husband and I needed to purchase home improvement items, so I took advantage of rebates. We got two cans of Valspar paint for our living room, and we got back $5 per can. That's the $10 check that arrived. We also had to purchase a new ceiling fan for our bedroom because the old one broke. Lowe's had a deal where if you purchased a ceiling fan over $99 you'd get a $20 gift card back. I purchased a ceiling fan that was on sale for $99.50 -- just over the limit.

So now, this week, I have $38.97 of "free" money. I already have it marked for more home improvement items at Lowe's. I'm getting pretty new outlet plates and light switch plates for the living room to replace the cheap plastic ones that came with the house. Slowly but surely, I am making my living room gorgeous.

CVS - Labor Day Weekend

2010-09-05T12:59:00.003-04:00

CVS: 77% Savings

2 Crest Pro-Health Clinical Toothpastes
$3.50- 75¢/1 MQs = $2.75 each
Used 2.50 ECBs/Earned $2.50 ECBs
Paid $1.50 each

18 SoBe Lifewaters (two transactions)
$1.59 each - $1.59 x 18 CVS B1G1 - $1.59 x18 IPs B1G1
ALL FREE

2 Stride gum
99¢ each - 99¢ ECB (for one) and B1G1 MQ (for the second)
Used 99¢ ECB/Earned 99¢ECB
BOTH FREE

1 Schick Hydro refills
$9 - $2 MQ = $7
Used 4 ECBs/Earned 4 ECBs
Paid $3

Paid $8.59
Saved: $28.67

Used 7.50 ECBs; Earned 8.50 ECBs (bag tag earned me 1 extra ECB this trip)

A Bad CVS Trip

2010-08-30T08:47:00.005-04:00

You win some; you lose some. I lost this weekend. I've been doing so well at CVS. This trip really knocked a little wind out of my sails (sales).

:-)

First:
Downy was on sale for $3.99 and was giving back 1 ECB. I paid with 1 ECB and a $1.50 coupon expecting to pay only $1.49 for the bottle of Downy. Well, my coupon didn't scan and I didn't notice until I got home. I'm going to return to the store for either a refund or to see if they will apply a new coupon.

Second:
A bonus package of U by Kotex tampons (36 count) and liners (18 count) was supposed to ring up at $8.99 and give back 3 ECBs. I was counting on using a $1 coupon and 3 ECBs to pay $4.99 and get back 3 ECBs. Well, the package rang up at $5.49 and didn't give back any ECBs. So I still got a pretty good deal on tampons and pads ($1.49 for both after ECBs and coupon), but I "lost" those 3 ECBs that I expected to get back. I hate losing ECBs. I'm very careful about using exactly as many as I will get back. Rats.

Third:
I got a tube of Crest Pro-Health and I didn't get back any ECBs. Like with #2 above, I expected to get back 2.50 ECBs on this purchase, so I used 2.50 ECBs (+ a coupon). Well, the toothpaste should have been 5.8 oz and I got a 4.0 oz. I rechecked the shelves and they didn't have any 5.8 oz tubes. I immediately returned the toothpaste -- but my coupon and ECBs were gone.

Went in with 19.5 ECBs, came out with 14. A bit frustrating. But I did walk away with a few good deals that kept me happy. Free headphones, free SoBe, super cheap cookies, nearly free nail polish remover, and low-price Tide.

Publix 8/26

2010-08-26T22:36:00.004-04:00

Paid: $26.70
Saved: $84.32
76% Savings

(5) Kellogg's Fiber Plus cereal
$2 each - $1/1 IPs = $1 each
$5 total and will submit for a $5 Publix card = FREE

(6) Morningstar Farms Chicken Nuggets
$1.95 each - $1/1 MQs = 95¢ each

(4) Cascadian Farms Granola Bars
$2 each - $1/1 IPs = $1 each

(3) Yoplait Fiber One yogurts
$1.25 each - $1/1 IPs = 25¢ each

(2) Right Guard Deodorants
$4 for two - $3/2 IP = 50¢ each

(4) bags Dove Chocolate
$2.15 each - $1/1 IPs = $1.15 each

(4) pints Starbucks ice cream
$1.90 - $1.50/1 IP = 40¢ (1 pint)
$1.90 - $1/1 IPs = 90¢ (3 pints)

(1) Orville Reddenbacher 3-bag popcorn
$1.38 - 80¢ MQ = 58¢

CVS 8/22

2010-08-22T09:47:00.005-04:00

(2) Listerine Total Care, $3.99 x 2 = $7.98
(1) Blink Gel Tears, $7.99
(1) Crest Pro-Health Clinical Toothpaste, $3.49
(1) Gillette Fusion Pro-Glide Razor, $9.97

Total without coupons: $31.20

Subtract coupons & ECBs used ($27.75):
$2.00 ($1/1 Listerine IP x 2)
$1.50 ($1.50/1 Blink Gel Tears IPs)
$4.00 ($4/1 Gillette Fusion MQ)
$0.75 (75¢/1 Crest MQ)
$19.50 (ECBs)

Paid OOP: $3.45
Saved 89%

ECBs earned: 19.50

CVS 8/15 - Saved 88%

2010-08-15T09:58:00.006-04:00

(1) Purex 3-in-1 Laundry Sheets, $5.99
(1) Gillette Fusion PrGlide razor, $9.99
(4) SoBe Lifewaters, $6.36
(1) Crest Pro-Health Clinical toothpaste, $3.49
(1) Blink Tears eyedrops, $7.99
(2) Right Guard deodorants, $8.98

Merchandise Total: $42.80

Coupons/discounts ($23.11):
$3/1 Purex
$4/1 Gillette razor
$.75/1 Crest toothpaste
$1.50/1 Blink eyedrops
$3/2 Right Guard
B1G1 CVS sale on SoBe ($3.18)
B1G1 SoBe IPs ($3.18)
B1G1 CVS sale on Right Guard ($4.49)

ECBs used:
$16.50

Total OOP including tax: $5.63

ECBs earned:
$17

Publix & Kroger

2010-08-12T21:27:00.011-04:00

1.5 years of couponing and I'm still making stupid mistakes. I did OK at Publix, but see the transaction and explanation of how I messed up at Kroger. Grrr.

PUBLIX:

(4) Breyers Smooth & Dreamy
$2.15 each - 50¢/1 MQs (doubled to $1) = $1.15 each
These have become a favorite of ours.

(2) Super Pretzel
$1.50 each - 50¢/1 IPs (doubled to $1) = 50¢ each
Are these good? This will be my first time trying them.

(2) Air Wick Freshmatic Starter Kit
$4.99 each - $4/1 MQs = 99¢ each

(2) International Delight creamer
$1.79 each - $1.79 (B1G1 MQ) = 90¢ each

(4) Prego
$1.04 each - $1/2 IPs = 54¢ each

Paid: $11.46
Saved: $38.42
77% Savings

KROGER:

Argh. I expected to get the Yoplait Smoothie packs for 99 cents each, but I didn't. I got them for $1.49 each. I should have bought the 8 SoBe Lifewaters in one transaction, then bought the smoothie packs and 2 more SoBes in a separate transaction to get another $4 off (and hence get the smoothies for 99 cents). I'm probably not explaining it well. The bottom line is: I paid 50 cents more per smoothie pack than I could have.

I'm going to go back before the week is over and get more free SoBe and a few more Yoplait Smoothies -- this time making sure that I'm buying 8 promotional items per transaction to get the discount price + additional savings using the coupons. Fingers crossed I don't mess up again.

(8) SoBe Lifewaters
99¢ each - B1G1 IPs (x4) - $4 promotion = FREE

(6) Yoplait Smoothies
$2.49 - $1/1 IPs = $1.49 each

Paid: $9.36
Saved: $22.76
71% Savings

CVS & Walgreens 8/8

2010-08-08T12:20:00.019-04:00

CVS:

(4) 12-packs Diet Coke (not pictured)
$13 - 3ECBs = $10 (earned 3 ECBs)

(1) Dulcolax Balance
$9.99 - 10 ECBs - $4/1 IP = FREE + $4 overage (earned 9.99 ECBs)

(1) Lysol No-Touch
$9.99 - $3/1 MQ - 5 ECBs = $1.99 (earned 5 ECBs)

(1) Schick Hydro razor
$8.97 - $5/1 MQ - 4 ECBs = FREE (earned 4 ECBs)

(1) Schick Hydro shave gel
$3.99 - $3.99 (G1 free peelie on razor) = FREE

Total should have been: $45.94 (without tax)

Total OOP:
$7.97 + $1.93 tax = $10.16
Used 22 ECBs
EARNED 22 ECBs

I'm going to try to get back into the Walgreen's Register Rewards game. I've been seeing such good deals on certain blogs lately. I hope I can roll my RRs into some equally good deals.

Walgreens:

(2) Nivea body washes
2 for $5.99 - $4/2 IP = $1.99 (98 cents each)

(1) Dial Nutriskin body wash
$3.99 - $1/1 IP = $2.99 (earned 3 RRs)

(1) Schick Hydro Razor
$7.99 - $5/1 MQ= $2.99 (earned 2 RRs)

(1) Schick Hydro shave gel
$1.99 - $1/1 MQ = 99 cents

(1) BioTrue Multipurpose Solution
$4.99 (earned 4 RRs)

Total OOP:
$13.95+ $1.75 tax = $15.70
EARNED 9 Register Rewards
(like getting everything for $6.70)

Let's Hear it for Kroger!

2010-08-06T21:20:00.010-04:00

Second trip this week.
Even more satisfying than the first.
Again, thank you to Southern Savers for the heads up.

(1) Kellogg's Special K Vanilla Almond cereal
$2.99 - $2.99 (Free item Q)* = FREE

(1) Fiber One Cereal Bars
$1.74 - $1.74 (Free item Q)* = FREE

(2) Multigrain Cheerios
$2.34 each - 75¢/1 IPs = $1.59 each

(2) Total Whole Grain cereral
$1.74 each - $1/1 IPs = 74¢ each

(2) Avocados
$1.25 for both - $1/2 IP = 25¢

(1) Amp energy drink
$1.50 - $1.50 eCoupon = FREE
(Won this playing the Kroger Spin The Wheel daily game)

Paid $5.10
Earned: $4 catalina
(Like paying $1.10 for all of the above)

Saved: $25
85% Savings

* Did anyone else get a nice mailer from Kroger with INDIVIDUALIZED coupons? I got a big pack of coupons based on previous purchases. Included were two coupons for FREE items (the Special K and Fiber One bars, see above). I have about 12 more coupons worth 50¢ to $1 for items I normally buy. It's AWESOME.

Good Kroger Haul

2010-08-01T14:50:00.010-04:00

A post at Southern Savers helped

me out with this transaction.
Love that site. $11 for all this:

(1) Charmin toilet paper, 12-count big rolls, $6.99
subtract $3 e-coupon loaded on Kroger card
subtract $1 MQ
subtract $1 (P&G buy 4 save $4, part one)
final price: $1.99

(1) Bounty paper towels 2-pack, $2.99
subtract $1 MQ
subtract $1 (P&G buy 4 save $4, part two)
final price: 99¢

(1) Tide Stain Release Pacs 34-count, $10.99
subtract $3 e-coupon loaded on Kroger card
subtract $3 MQ
subtract $1 (P&G buy 4 save $4, part three)
final price: $3.99

(1) Downy sheets (105-count), $4.99
subtract $2 e-coupon loaded on Kroger card
subtract $1 MQ
subtract $1 (P&G buy 4 save $4, part four)
final price: 99¢

(1) Gillette Body Wash, $2.99
subtract $2 MQ
final price: 99¢

(2) Old Spice Body Washes, $2.99 each --> $5.98
subtract $2.99 (B1G1 MQ)
subtract $2 e-coupon loaded on Kroger card
subtract $1 e-coupon loaded on Kroger card
final price: FREE

Paid: $11.10 ($2.16 of that was tax)
Saved: $34.89
76% Savings

CVS - 8/1

2010-08-01T14:32:00.007-04:00

two dollars!!

Imagine one more SoBe on the top of this pyramid. It didn't make it into the picture because I opened it on the way home. It was 97 degrees today in Atlanta!

1 Altoids (new Cool Honey flavor)
$1.49
Used $1 ECB/Earned $1 ECB
49¢

2 Colgate Total toothpaste
$2.99 X 2 = $5.98
Used $4 ECBs/Earned $4 ECBs
Used $1.50 in coupons (75¢/1 IP x 2)
48¢ (24¢ each)

1 Gillette Fusion razor
$9.79
Used $5 ECBs/Earned $5 ECBs
Used $4/1 MQ
79¢

14 SoBe Lifewaters
$1.59 x 14 = $22.26
B1G1 CVS (subtract $11.13)
B1G1 IPs (subtract $11.13)
ALL FREE (paid 21¢ tax)

Paid: $2.03 oop
Used 10ECBs
Earned 11 ECBs
(Scanning my bag tag earned me 1 extra ECB this trip)

Publix 7/30

2010-07-30T21:24:00.010-04:00

I love that most items were less than $1 each.

Paid: $24.77
Saved: $98.40
75% Savings

(2) Nature Valley Granola bars (Value Size, 12 bars per box)
$2.75 each - $1/1 IPs = $1.75 each

(1) Whitehouse Vinegar
$1.89 - $1/1 PQ = 89¢

(2) Kellogg's Pop Tarts
$1.20 each - $1/2 IP = 70¢ each

(2) SoftSoap
$1 each = 50¢/1 IPs (doubled to $1) = FREE

(4) Gardein Meat-Free Chicken
$2 each - $1/1 IPs = $1 each

(4) Starbucks ice cream
$1.90 each - $1/1 IPs = 90¢ each

(2) Simply Potatoes
$1.30 each = $1/2 PQ = 80¢ each

(1) Sorrento fresh mozzarella slices
$3.99 - $1/1 MQ - $1/1 PQ = $1.99

(1) International Delights creamer
$1.79 - $1.79 (free product Q) = FREE

(1) Publix Half-n-half
$1 on sale (no coupon)

(4) Yoplait GoGurt
$1.40 each - $1/1 IPs = 40¢ each

(6) Power of Fruit
$1.70 each - $1/1 IPs = 70¢ each

Great Deals: Not-so-great Percentage

2010-07-09T21:08:00.008-04:00

Spent $37 - Saved $60 - 62% Savings

(Freezer items not pictured:
Cascadian Farms frozen potatoes and Edy's Ice Cream cups)

(3) Cascadian Farms frozen potatoes
$2 - $1/1 IPs = $1 each

(3) Edy's ice cream cups
$1 each - $1/3 MQ = 67¢ each

(4) Eight O'Clock Coffee
$2.50 each - $2/2 IPs = $1.50 each

(10) Musselman's Apple Sauce
95¢ each - 75¢/1 MQs = 20¢ each

(6) Rotel canned tomatoes
70¢ each - $1/3 IP = 37¢ each

(1) La Preferida Salsa - $3.49 (no sale/no coupon)
(1) Tapatio hot sauce - $1.25 (no sale/no coupon)
what?! :-)

(2) Kraft dressings
$3.19 each - 55¢/1 IPs = $2.64 each
A special request from my husband. Normally, I'd wait for a BOGO sale.

(2) Suave body washes
$1.39 each - $1/1 IPs = 39¢ each

(2) Ortega diced chilies
$1.35 each - $1/2 MQ = 85¢ each

(1) Purina One cat food
$5 - $2/1 MQ = $3

(1) Ziploc
$2 - $1/1 Target Q = $1

(1) Mission flour tortillas
$2.69 - 75¢/1 IP = $1.94

(1) Mission corn tortilla
$2.09 - 75¢/1 IP = $1.34

(1) Nature's Own bread
$1.43 - 75¢/1 IP = 68¢

I have VIP guests coming in two weeks and they love Mexican food so I got them their favorite salsa and hot sauce at full price. Plus tortillas for enchiladas, flautas, tacos, and quesadillas. Rotel tomatoes for Spanish rice. I'll use my avocado coupons late next week so that they will ripen perfectly for guacamole. I'm so looking forward to it. If I do say so myself, I'm a GREAT Mexican cook. (I'm Mexican-American, born and raised right on the the Texas/Mexico border).

CVS - Nice Trip

2010-07-04T09:18:00.005-04:00

$5.00!

(1) Charmin 12-pack Big Rolls
$5.49 - $1/1 MQ = $4.49
Earned 1 ECB → Like getting it for $3.49

(3) Post Cereals
$3.34 each - $2/1 MQs = $1.34 each $4.02 total
Earned 5 ECBs → FREE + 92¢ overage

(2) Crest toothpastes
$2.49 each - 75¢/1 MQs = $1.74 each $3.48 total
Earned 1 ECB → Like getting them for $1.24 each

(1) BioTrue Multipurpose Contact Solution
$2.99
Earned 2.99 ECBs → FREE

(6) SoBe Lifewaters
3 at $1.59 each
3 free (CVS sale B1G1)
Less three B1G1 MQs → ALL FREE

Used 11 ECBs Earned 10 ECBs
Paid $4.99 OOP
Saved 85%

Publix 7/1

2010-07-01T21:13:00.012-04:00

Off to a great start in the month of July!

First Publix Trip: Saved 77%!

(1) Cheerios
$2 - 50¢/1 MQ (doubled to $1) = $1

(2) Fisher Fusion snack pouches
$1 each - $1/1 IPs = FREE

(3) Reynolds Wrap Non-Stick
$2.08 - $1.25/1 IPs = 83¢ each

(2) Reynold's Wrap
$2.08 - $1/1 IPs = $1.08 each

(1) Snuggle
$3 - $1/1 Target Q = $2

(1) Publix Vanilla Wafers
$1.99 - $1.98 (penny item) = 1¢

(2) Muir Glen tomato sauce
89¢ - $1/1 IPs = FREE + 22¢ overage

(1) Old El Paso taco seasoning
$1.07 - $1/1 IP = 7¢

(3) Bic lighters
$1.75 - $1/1 IPs = 75¢ each

Paid: $11.18
Saved: $37.86
77% Savings

Second Publix Trip: Saved 64%!

(4) Yoplait Fiber One yogurt
$1.25 - $1/1 IPs = 25¢ each

(5) Morningstar Farms
$2 - $1/1 MQs = $1 each

(1) Jell-O pudding 6-pack
$2.00 - 35¢/1 MQ (doubled to 70¢) = $1.30

(2) Avocados
$2.60 - $1 Publix Q = $1.60 for both or 80¢ each
(Save $1 on produce when you buy Jell-O)

(1) Kraft Sandwich Mayo
$1 - $1/1 PQ = FREE

(2) Lindsay reclosable olives
$2 - $1/1 MQs = $1 each

(2) Breyers Sweet & Dreamy
$2.14 - $1/1 IPs = $1.14 each

(1) Bounty 8-pack giant rolls (= 12 regular rolls)
$10.99 - $1/1 MQ = $9.99 or 83¢ per roll

Paid: $24.36
Saved: $42.55
64% Savings

Sweet Target Deals

2010-07-01T10:08:00.005-04:00

I'm alway pleased when Target has good sales that correspond with coupons I happen to have. I loved getting all these things for under a dollar (after sales and coupons):

(1) Hershey's Syrup
$1.52 - $1/1 MQ = 52 cents

(3) Sure for Women deodorant
$1.97 - $1.50/1 MQs = 47 cents each

(1) Edge shave gel
$1.79 - $1/1 MQ = 79 cents

(2) Bullseye BBQ sauce (Kansas City)
$1.25 - $1/1 IPs = 25 cents each

(1) Up and Up Cotton Rounds 80-count
$1.59 - $1/1 TQ = 59 cents

This is a good price for this much litter:

(1) Fresh Step cat litter 35lbs
$13.29 - $2/1 TQ = $11.29

(I got a Target Flip, Clip, and Save coupon booklet in the mail and saw a $2/1 coupon for Fresh Step. I knew it was on sale so I ran to pick some up.)

And I alwas love fantastic CLEARANCE finds:

(1) Cat nail trimmer kit
$1.41 on clearance
Marked down from $5.99

(1) Cat collar w/bell
78 cents on clearance
Marked down from $2.89

(1) Dog brush
$1.07 on clearance
Marked down from $5.99

Practically Free Milk

2010-06-28T19:16:00.006-04:00

Wow. Any kind of really good deal like this with milk hardly ever happens. I know a lot of people are probably making a huge killing because they had $2.50/1 MQs, but I only had $1/1 MQs.

No complaints.

(6) Smart Balance Milks (1/2 gallons)
$1.80 each - $1/1 MQs = 80¢ each
Total for 6 (including 22¢ tax) = 4.99

Mail-in Rebate: $4.49

50¢ for 3 gallons of milk
That's 8¢ per half-gallon!

CVS & Rite Aid

2010-06-20T18:53:00.010-04:00

CVS

I made a mistake at CVS. I bought two CVS pain medications thinking the limit for ECBs was 2. The limit was 1. For my total transaction I expected to use 12 ECBs and get back 12 ECBs, but I only got back 9. So this week, I lost 3 ECBs in my roll-attempt. Still, I came out ahead. I'm not going to return one of them since I need them both.

2 Nivea body washes | $4.99 each | $9.98
2 CVS pain medications | $3.99 each | $7.98
2 Colgate Total toothpastes | $2.99 each | $5.98
2 Power Bars | 99¢ each | $1.98

Total Due: $25.92

Subtract:
$4/$20 CVS coupon (from store scanner)
$1.50 (2 x 75¢/1 Colgate IPs)
$4.99 (B1G1 Nivea MQ)
$12 ECBs

Paid OOP: $3.43 + $1.42 tax = $4.89
ECBs earned: $8.98
Came out $4.09 ahead

Rite Aid

For a long time I've held out on dealing with Rite Aid and SCRs. I felt it was too much hassle and I get great deals at all the other stores I shop without having to complicate my plans with one more store and all their policies. But I gave it a shot this week. I started slowly. We'll see how it goes.

(2) U by Kotex tampons
$7 - $1/1 MQs = $5 for two
SCR: $3
Final cost: $1 each

Publix 6/17

2010-06-17T16:02:00.009-04:00

Free coffee creamer, super cheap ice cream, dish soap, waffles, and juice + more great deals at Publix this week.

(1) Eggo Waffles
$1.20 - $1/1 competitor q (Target) = 20¢

(3) Bailey's Creamers
$1.05 - $1/1 IPs - 55¢/1 Publix Qs = – $1.50 (overage)

(2) Starbucks Ice Cream
$1.90 - $1.50/1 MQ = 40¢ (first pint)
$1.90 - $1/1 MQ = 90¢ (second pint)

(1) Orville Redenbacher 10-pack mini-bags popcorn
$2.55 - $1/1 MQ = $1.55

(2) Seventh Generation Dish Soap
$1.50 - $1/1 IP = 50¢ each

(1) Contessa Green Meal
$4.99 - $2/1 Peelie = $2.99

(3) Ocean Spray 100% Grapefruit Juice (64 oz)
$1.63 - $1/1 Peelies = 63¢ each

(6) Al Fresco Chicken Sausage
$3.99 - $2/1 IPs - $1.99 each
Unadvertised sale? These normally sell for $5.49 each at my Publix, but I didn't see this sale advertised in the weekly ad. I'm so glad I saved a bunch of $2/1 IPs from SmartSource.com. My husband and I love these sausages.

Paid: $21.38
Saved: $56.92
62.4% Savings

Free Iced Coffee Tumbler

2010-06-14T19:22:00.010-04:00

Way back in October of 2009 Publix had New England Coffee on sale B1G1 and I bought several bags for $1.90 each combining coupons with the sale. Turns out the bags kept getting put in the back of the line as I went through all the other coffee in my stockpile.

Then iheartpublix announced this deal recently for a free iced coffee tumbler from the company. And so I was thrilled to find the New England coffee bags in my pantry!

So look what I was able to get for free using three UPC codes and a stamp:

I love it when a receipt isn't required. I saw similar tumblers at Starbucks selling for $12.95. Thank goodness for couponing sites, stockpiles, and freebies. This tumbler will accompany me all summer, filled with delicious iced coffee, as I head out to gather my coupon bargains.

Publix 6/12

2010-06-13T11:45:00.005-04:00

Not a big Publix week for me, but I'm happy I stumbled upon a good clearance on Pert Plus for Men and was also able to pick up some decent deals.

3 Smart Balance milk (1/2 gallon)
$3.59 - $2.50/1 MQs = $1.09 each

3 Pert Plus for Men
$1.70 each on clearance - $1.50/1 MQs = 20¢ each

1 Muir Glen tomato sauce
89¢ - $1/1 MQ = 11¢ overage

2 Combat roach traps (8-pack)
$6.99 each - $3/1 PQs - $2/1 MQs = $1.99 each

1 Alexia sides (Sweet Potato Fries)
$3 - 75¢/1 MQ = $2.25

8 Snapple iced tea (16oz)
99¢ each - B1G1 MQs (x 4) = 50¢ each

1 Organic Valley half-and-half
$2.19 - 75¢/1 MQ = $1.44

2 Publix half-and-half
2 for $2

1 Dentyne Pure gum
$1.29 - $1/1 MQ = 29¢

1 AJC Newspaper
$2

Paid: $21.71
Saved: $37.85

64% Savings

OMG @ CVS

2010-06-13T10:54:00.009-04:00

I keep coming away from CVS more and more blown away with what I can get away with. Again, I'm nothing like the pros, but I'm still pretty happy with my amateur status and what I've been able to accomplish there.

Here's this week's victory:

2 Gillette body washes
$8 for two - B1G1 free MQ = $4
Used 4 ECBs = both FREE

2 Colgate Pro-Clinical toothpastes
$8 for two - 2 x $1 MQs = $6
Used 6 ECBs = both FREE

1 Schick Hydro razor
$9 - $5/1 MQ = $4
Used 4 ECBs = FREE

1 Covergirl lip gloss
$4.99 - $1/1 MQ = $3.99
Used 1 ECB = $2.99

1 Dentyne gum pack
$1.29 - $1/1 MQ = 29¢

Subtotal: $3.24
Tax: $1.83

Paid OOP: $5
ECBs used: 15
ECBs earned: 20
Therefore, it cost me nothing to "take" these 7 items from CVS.

I currently have 28 ECBs clipped to my fridge. I can't wait for the weeks to come to see what else I will be able to get for free.

Three Stores: Great Savings: Good Stuff

2010-06-06T10:11:00.009-04:00

Target: Free SoBe and Fiber One

10 SoBe lifewaters
$10 for 10
Used 5 B1G1 MQs = $5
Used $5 Target gift card (from previous transaction) = Free
Got back a $5 gift card = FREE + Overage

5 boxes Fiber One bars
$2.50 each - 50¢/1 MQs = $2 each x 5 = $10
Used $5 gift card (from SoBe transaction above) = $5
Got back a $5 gift card = FREE

5 boxes Fiber One bars
$2.50 each - 50¢/1 MQs = $2 each x 5 = $10
Used $5 gift card (from Fiber One transaction above) = $5
Got back a $5 gift card = FREE

CVS: Free ProGlide

1 Gillette Fusion ProGlide Razor
$9.97 - $4/1 MQ - 5 ECBs = $1
Paid $1.51 OOP
Earned 5 ECBs
∴ $3.49 profit

Publix: 75% Savngs

Paid: $32.94
Saved: $96.54

Used coupons for all items with bold prices below plus a $5/$30 Publix home-mailer coupon.

Grocery:
(6) Muir Glen tomato sauce: free + overage
(5) Healthy Choice entrees: $1.60 each
(1) Publix Microwave Popcorn 6-pack: $1.80
(4) South Beach Living bars 5-pack: 50¢ each

Dairy:
(5) YoPlus 4-packs: 25¢ each
(2) Jell-O pudding 6-packs: $1 each
(2) International Delights creamers: 62¢ each
(1) I Can't Believe It's Not Butter: 50¢

Veggies/Fruits:
(2) Publix Salad blends: $1.50 each
(9) GG Valley Fresh Steamers: 20¢ each
(2) Large vidalia onions: 38¢ ($1 off produce wyb Jell-o)
(1) bunch bananas: 40¢ ($1 off produce wyb Jell-o)

Beauty:
(4) Dial body washes: $1 each
(1) Dove for Men soap 2-pack: $1
(2) Infusium 23 shampoo/conditioner: $1.50 each

Pet:
(1) Purina One cat food bag: $3.45

Favorites and Freebies

2010-05-29T10:48:00.008-04:00

I stopped by Kroger and Target yesterday after work to pick-up these freebies:

4 peg bags of Lifesavers mints (Kroger)
$1 - 50¢/1 MQs (doubled to $1) = FREE

2 Listerine (Target)
$1.98 on clearance - $2/1 MQs = FREE + overage
(Plus, mailed in for a $10 pre-paid debit card)

And I stocked up on two of my absolute favorites at Publix -- Morningstar Farms and Luigi's Italian Ices. I'm not done with my stock-up for either of these products. I have lots more coupons and will make a second trip later in the week. Gotta find room in the freezer, too!!

6 Morningstar Farms
$2 each on sale - $1/1 MQs = $1 each

5 Luigi's Italian Ices
$1.50 each - 50¢/1 MQs (doubled to $1) = 50¢ each

3 Bic Soleil razors
$2.75 each - $2/1 MQs = 75¢ each

4 Texas Toast croutons
99¢ each - 50¢/1 MQs (doubled to $1) = FREE + overage

4 Al Fresco chicken sausages
$5.49 each - $2/1 MQs = $3.49 each

2 Ocean Spray Fruit/Veggie juice
$2 each - $1/1 winetags ("save now") = $1 each

2 International Delights creamers
$1.79 each - B1G1 blinkie = $1.79 for two or 90¢ each

2 Bush's Grillin' Beans
$1.15 each - $1/2 blinkie = 65¢ each

No sales/coupons:
2 Herdez salsa verde $1.19 each
1 Pace salsa verde $2.79
1 Publix half and half $1.69
1 Cage-free organic eggs $2.99
Averages:
Paid about $46
Saved about $70
60% Savings

This Week's Deals

2010-05-23T10:37:00.011-04:00

Shopped at Whole Foods, Kroger, Target, CVS, and Publix. Average savings overall was about 50%. I purchased many things not on sale and/or without coupons. So I'll just highlight my best deals this week.

Coupon error in my favor at Kroger. I had a $3/6 coupon for any Smart Ones frozen products. Kroger had the desserts on sale for $1.58 each. I bought six and handed my coupon to the cashier. He scanned it and it took $6 off (not $3). He only scanned it once. It shows right on my receipt: "SCANNED COUPON 6.00 – "

So I ended up paying 58¢ per box when I thought I was going to pay $1.08 per box!

I love CVS. My subtotal before tax for the above items was 48¢. After tax, and total out of pocket, was a mere $1.55. Basically, each item was about 26¢. Here's how I did it:

Bought 1 Old Spice body wash for $4
Used 4 ECBs to pay for it (therefore, free)
Used "Buy 1 Old Spice body wash get one Old Spice body wash free" coupon to get the second body wash for free.

Bought a third Old Spice body wash for $4
Used 4 ECBs to pay for it (therefore, free)
Used "Buy 1 Old Spice body wash get one Old Spice deodorant free" coupon to get the deodorant for free.

So far, I've paid nothing out of pocket.

Got one Dove candy bar for free with a CVS coupon that printed out for me last week.

Paid 48¢ for the other Dove candy bar (why not, they were on sale). One for me, one for my husband.

AND IN THE END I GOT BACK 8 ECBS! So I basically paid for the vast majority of this transaction with 8 ECBs from last week...and then got them right back. Again, I love CVS.

Everything pictured above was FREE.

10 Texas Toast Croutons
99¢ - 50¢/1 MQs (doubled to $1) = FREE (Publix)
A huge THANK YOU to all my coupon traders (from iheartpublix) for sending me 21 of these coupons. My husband takes a salad to work every day and when we run out of croutons he lets me know about it. This should hold him for a while and the rest of my coupons don't expire until August so that's plenty of time to wait for another sale.

1 Snikiddy Snacks
$2 - Free Item MQ = FREE (Whole Foods)

My best deals at Publix (including the croutons mentioned above):

4 Right Guard Total Defense
$2 each - $3/2 MQs = $2 for 4 or 50¢ each

1 Fiber Choice + Calcium (90 count, chewable tablets)
$6.95 on Clearance - $3/1 MQ = $3.95
(Regular price on this sized bottle is $14)

2 Cottonelle 12-count big roll
$6.49 each - $1.50 Target Q - 50¢/1 MQ (dbl to $1) = $4 each

Great CVS Trip

2010-05-16T09:39:00.008-04:00

OOP for all items above: $3.06

2 Aussie hair care products
$2.99 each - $1/1 mqs = $1.99 or $3.98 for two
Earned 4 ECBs → FREE

2 Lady Speedstick deodorants
$2.99 each - 75¢/1 mqs = $2.24 each or $4.48 for two
Earned 4 ECBs → 24¢ each

2 Colgate Pro-Clinical toothpastes
$3.99 each - $1/1 mqs = $2.99 each or $5.98 for two
Earned 4 ECBs → 99¢ each

1 Blade 5 Razor
$6.99
Earned $6.99 ECBs → FREE

Amount due before coupons: $29
Amount due after coupons: $23
ECBs used (from last week): 19.99
Amount due after coupons and ECBs: $3
ECBs earned: 19.99 (same as last week)*
$16.99 PROFIT

*I also earned 1 extra ECB by having my CVS reusable bag tag scanned (this was the 8th scan and I earn 1 ECB every fourth time).

Publix 5/16

2010-05-14T15:34:00.007-04:00

I couldn't include everything in the picture this week. It's hot in Atlanta. I had to rush most things into the freezer and refrigerator.

FREE ITEMS

1 Schick Hydro Shave Gel
$2 - $1/1 mq - $1/1 sq = FREE

6 Fisher Fusion trail mixes
$1 each - $1/1 mqs = FREE

4 Pedigree dog food cans (large size)
Bought 4 got 4 FREE (B1G1 coupons)
Yes, I consider these free because this is the only type of dog food my dog eats. I have to buy it no matter what. So the fact that I had B1G1 free coupons means that I was getting twice as many cans as I would normally purchase. Hence, free.

$1 or Less:

10 Blue Diamond Almonds small cans (6 oz)
$1.60 each - 50¢/1 mqs (doubled to $1) = 60¢ each

8 Nine-Lives 4-pk catfood
$1.75 for two - $1/2 mqs = 75¢ for two or 37.5¢ each

5 Yoplait Fiber One 4-pk yogurts
$1.25 each - $1/1 mqs = 25¢ each

2 Vigo Yellow Rice
B1G1 $1.29 or 65¢ each

4 Eat Smart fresh vegetables
$2 each - $1/1 mqs = $1 each

Good Deals:

4 Healthy Choice entrees
$1.99 each - $1/2 mqs = $1.49 each

2 Breyer's Ice Cream
B1G1 $4.99 = $2.50 each

2 Dove Mini ice cream treats
$3 each - $1/2 mq = $2.50 each

1 Joffrey's Jamaican Me Crazy coffee
(love this stuff)
B1G1 $9.99 = $5

2 Fresh Express Salad Blends
B1G1 $3.99 = $2 each

Arnold 12 Grain Bread
B1G1 $3.69 = $1.85

Full Price/No Coupons/No Sales:

grape tomatoes: $2.99
vidalia onions: $4.11
bananas: $1.45
half and half: $1.69

Receipt Summary:

Paid: $54.78
Saved: $91.83
62.6% Savings

I've done much better but I don't mind. These are still great savings for lots of items we need (dog and cat food), things that are healthy (produce) and things we enjoy (ice cream and almonds).

86% Savings at Kroger

2010-05-12T18:43:00.014-04:00

OOP for above items: $5.11

1 Silk Almond Milk
$2.99

2 Morningstar Farms Chicken Nuggets
$3.49 x 2 = $6.98

4 Old Spice Fresh Collection deodorants
$3.50 x 4 = $14

2 Old Spice Swagger body washes
$3.50 x 2 = $7

Coupons used and added savings:
- $4.00 for P&G Mega Sale (buy 4 items get $4 off instantly)
- $3.00 eCoupon for buying 2 Old Spice deodorants
- $3.00 eCoupon for buying 2 Old Spice body washes
- $3.50 B1G1 MQ for deodorant
- $3.50 B1G1 MQ for deodorant
- $3.50 MQ B1 deodorant G1 body wash for free
- $3.50 MQ B1 deodorant G1 body wash for free
- $1.25/1 MQ for Silk Almond Milk
- $2 for any Morningstar Farms product (used 2 $1/1 MQs)

Kroger receipt summary:
MF coupon savings: $23.35
Store coupons & Kroger Plus savings: $9.34
Total coupons: $32.59
Total savings: 86%

Kroger - Manager's Special

2010-05-10T14:24:00.005-04:00

Loved this deal I stumbled on:
2 Newman's Own Organic Dog Food
$1.29 reduced to clear
Used 50¢/1 manufacturer coupons (doubled to $1)
Paid 29¢ per can

Always check the clearance bins! I just happened to have two coupons for 50¢ off ANY Newman's Own product. I never imagined I would use them on dog food. I was always checking the prices of the salsa, popcorn, pasta sauce, etc. Now my little dog Boo gets to eat organic!

Back on a Roll with CVS

2010-05-09T10:08:00.005-04:00

It's been awhile since I've been able to roll good deals at CVS. A few weeks ago I picked up some Nivea and toothpaste and something else (not sure) and had $9 in ECBs.

So this was a good week to make a profit at CVS.

2 Right Guard Total Defense
$2.49 each - $3/2 MQ = $1.98 for two
Got back 4ECBs → $2.02 profit

2 Crest Pro-Health toothpaste
$3.50 each - 75¢/1 MQs = $5.50 for both
Got back 7ECBs → $1.50 profit

1 U by Kotex tampons
$4.99 - $1/1 MQ = $3.99
Got back 4.99 ECBs → $1 profit

1 Schick Hydro 5 razor
$8.99 - $5/1 MQ = $3.99
Got back 4ECBs → FREE

Amount due: $17.02
ECBs used: $9.00

New Amount due: $8.02 (OOP)
ECBs earned: $19.99
$11.97 profit

Free Stuff May 2010

2010-05-08T21:59:00.020-04:00

deodorant (8)
feminine products (5)
croutons (12)
trail mix (6)
razors (2)
toothpaste (2)
body wash (7)
shampoo/conditioner (2)
candy (5)
dog food (6)
samples (6)

5 Dove deodorants Publix
$1.15 each
Used $1.50/1 MQs and 55¢/1 Publix Qs = FREE + overage

4 Carefree Ultra Protection Liners Publix
99¢ each
Used $1/1 MQs = FREE + a few cents overage

12 bags Texas Toast croutons Publix
99¢ each
Used 50¢/1 MQs (doubled to $1) = FREE + a few cents overage

6 Fisher Fusion trail/nut mix Publix
$1 each on sale - $1/1 MQs = FREE

6 Pedigree canned dog food Publix
$1 each - free product MQs = FREE

1 Schick Hydro Razor CVS
$8.99 - $5/1 MQ = $3.99
Got back 4ECBs → FREE

2 Right Guard deodorants CVS
$2.49 each - $3/2 MQ = $1.98 for two
Got back 4ECBs → FREE + $2.02 overage

1 box 20-count U by Kotex Tampons CVS
$4.99 - $1/1 MQ = $3.99
Got back 4.99 ECBs → FREE + $1 overage

2 Crest Pro-Health Toothpaste CVS
$3.50 each - 75¢/1 MQs = $5.50 for both
Got back 7 ECBs → FREE + $1.50 overage

4 Nivea for Women body washes CVS
$4.88 each - $4/1 MQs = 88¢ each
Got back 5 ECBs → FREE + $1.48 overage

4 Old Spice products (3 body washes + 1 deodorant) CVS
$4 each for two body washes - 8 ECBs = FREE
Third body wash = FREE (Used a B1 body wash G1 body wash free MQ)
Deodorant = FREE (Used a B1 body wash G1 deodorant free MQ)
+ Got back 8 ECBS (overage!)

2 Aussie hair care (1 shampoo + 1 conditioner) CVS
$2.99 each - $1/1 MQs = $3.98 for both
Got back 4 ECBs → FREE + 2¢ overage

1 Blade 5 Razor CVS
$6.99
Got back 6.99 ECBs → FREE

1 Dove candy bar CVS
48¢
Used a CVS coupon for one free Dove candy bar → FREE

8 Gillette body washes Target
$1.52 each on clearance - $4/2 MQs = - 96¢ each
FREE + $3.84 overage

2 Old Spice deodorants Kroger
$3.50 each on sale - $3.50/1 MQs (B1G1) = FREE

2 Old Spice body washes Kroger
$3.50 each on sale - $3.50/1 MQs
(B1 deodorant G1 free body wash) = FREE

4 Lifesaver candy peg bags Kroger
$1 each on sale - 50¢/1 MQs (doubled to $1) = FREE

Mail Samplers received (All FREE):
2 Cascade gel power packs
1 Metamucil pink lemonade sample packet
2 Pantene shampoo + conditioner travel size
1 Dunkin Donuts Turbo sample packet

Publix 5/6

2010-05-06T21:58:00.013-04:00

Many thanks to iheartpublix for letting me know that there are always deals to be had at Publix. When I first saw the preview on Monday nothing really jumped out at me.

But as the week wore on and more match-ups were posted, I clearly saw that there were HUGE savings to be had. I couldn't resist rushing out on Thursday evening for the following:

2 Dove deodorants
$1.15 each - 55¢/1 Publix Qs - $1.50/1 MQs = $1.80 overage!

2 more Dove deodorants (without the Publix Qs)
$1.15 each - $1.50/1 MQs = 70¢ overage!

6 John Frieda Root Awakening Shampoo/Conditioner
$10.98 for two - $4/2 Publix Qs - $5/2 MQs = $1.98 for two or 99¢ each!

8 Healthy Choice meals
$1.79 each - $2/4 Publix Qs - $1/2 MQs = 79¢ each!

3 Phillips Crab Cakes
$3 each - $2/1 MQs = $1 each!
I made a box of these for dinner the same night I brought them home. Had them with a side-salad and Valley Fresh Steamers broccoli & rice. Delicious! I still have the pdf coupon...I'm going to print more and go get more of these.

2 Hidden Valley Ranch Dressings
$1.73 each - $1/1 MQs = 73¢ each!

1 Jell-O Pudding 6-pack
$2 each - $1/1 Publix Q = $1

2 Eight O'Clock Coffee
$2.50 each - $2/2 MQs = $1.50 each

Summary:
$22.46 OOP
$86.20 Saved

79% Savings

Body Wash, Body Wash, & more Body Wash

2010-05-02T11:12:00.016-04:00

There converged a most perfect trifecta for body wash this week:

High-value coupons in the coupon inserts. (And I was able to snag multiple inserts.)

Clearance and sales at Target on Gillette, Nivea for Men, and Old Spice body washes.

Sale/ECB deals at CVS on Nivea for Women.

In brief, I got 30 body washes for an overall average of 50¢ each.

4 Nivea For Women (pictured below) were free using $4/1 coupons and ECBs at CVS.
The Gillette's were either free or 50¢ - 75¢ using $4/2 and B1G1 coupons at Target
The Old Spices were $1 each using B1G1 coupons at Target (only two are pictured, but I got 8 more that I gave to my brother and dad -- so those didn't make it home with me to be in the pictures).
The Nivea for Men were 50¢ each using $3/1 coupons at Target

Roughly my totals were:
$15 OOP
$60 Saved
80% Savings

Things I Got For Free This Week

2010-05-02T10:40:00.005-04:00

Aveda Pure-Fume .24 oz
These retail for $22 each. Aveda sent me a home-mailer for a free bottle. Picked mine up on Saturday at Atlanta's Perimeter Mall Aveda store.

U by Kotex samples
This past week Kotex put a bunch of these sample boxes in the women's bathrooms at Emory University where I work. I took one. Looks like you can also sign up to get a sample box by mail.

Dunkin Donuts Turbo
Got my free sample in the mail.

Things I Got for Free This Week

2010-04-24T16:54:00.006-04:00

12-pack of Diet Coke
I cashed in some My Rewards points a few weeks ago and got a coupon for a free 12-pack in the mail this week. So I picked up a 12-pack during my grocery shopping trip.

Rimmel Exaggerate Eye-Definer pencil
There was a coupon for a free item in my All You magazine recently. I could get a lipstick (no), bronzer (no), an eye-shadow trio (no), or the eye liner. Of all of those, I wear eye-liner the most. So I got a $4.14 eye-liner for free.

L'oreal Go 360 Clean facial cleanser
Representatives were set up at Emory University offering a full-size free bottle to anyone who would try it. So I stopped and washed my face and complimented them on how great it was and they gave me a free bottle. I saw these at Walgreens and CVS for about $5 - $6.

Target

2010-04-24T16:50:00.001-04:00

Target was pretty good to me this weekend.

2 boxes Tazo Tea bags
$3.14 - $1/1 qs = $2.14 each

1 Nivea body wash
$3.49 - $2/1 q = $1.49

1 Dove Ultimate deodorant
$3.64 - $2/1 q = $1.64

1 Veet
$4.49 - $3/1 q = $1.49

1 Rimmel eye liner
$4.14 - Free item coupon = FREE

Paid: $9.92
Saved: $15.09

60% Savings

2010-04-24T16:43:00.005-04:00

I found a great clearance sale on cotton sheets at BB&B. And I had a $5/$15 coupon so this worked out well:

1 Full Size Flat Sheet
(Wamsutta, 100% Egyptian Cotton, 400 Thread Count)
$20 markdown price - 50% clearance sale = $10

1 Full Size Fitted Sheet
(Wamsutta, 100% Pima Cotton, 400 Thread Count)
$12 markdown price - 50% clearance sale = $6

Less $5/$15 coupon

$11.64 for two great sheets that were probably originally priced at over $40. I will find some nice contrasting pillow cases to complete the set.

Walgreens

2010-04-23T18:32:00.004-04:00

1 Infusium Moisturologie Shampoo
$4.99 on sale - $3/1 q = $1.99

2 Veet
$3.99 on sale - $3/1 q = 99¢
Thanks Common Sense With Money

Paid: $4.84
Saved: $13.50

74% Savings

Publix

2010-04-23T10:05:00.012-04:00

(not everything is pictured; this is just from the first trip)

I made several trips to Publix this week. I don't like to overwhelm the cashiers with tons of coupons. I also don't like holding up the lines. So I do all my coupon shopping in batches to make things easier on everyone. I find that doing this also reduces the chances for coupon-scanning errors.

I don't have a Publix near me that takes competitors' $X/$XX coupons (save $5/$30 purchase, for example, from Winn Dixie). So I never see the kinds of savings that other people get. I can only save using individual item coupons. So this is one of the best percentage savings I've seen on my Publix receipt:

Paid: $21.08
Saved: $128.31

84% Savings

7 Green Giant Valley Fresh Steamers
$1.20 - $1/1 mqs = 20¢ each

2 Pillsbury Toaster Strudel
$1.10 - $1/1 mqs = 10¢ each

4 Pillsbury Toaster Strudel
$1.10 - 55¢/2 mqs = 83¢ each

2 Silk Soy Milk 1/2 gallons
$2.50 - B1G1 mq - 55¢ Publix q = 97.5¢ each

15 boxes!! Cascadian Farms items (granola bars and cereal)
$1.99 - $1/1 mqs - $2/3 Publix q = 33¢ each
(less than $5 total for 15 boxes)

5 Yoplait Yo-Plus yogurts (4-packs)
$1.25 - $1/1 mqs = 25¢ each

3 Windex Multi-Surface cleaner
$1.70 - $1/1 mqs = 70¢ each

1 Aleve 100-count + bonus 24-count bottle (attached)
$7.29 on sale - $1/1 mq - $2 Publix q = $4.29

2 Betty Crocker cookie mixes
$1.34 - 40¢ qs (doubled to 80¢) = 54¢ each

12-pack Diet Coke
$4.95 - Free item coupon = $0 (FREE!)

Publix, PetSmart, Target - Great Deals

2010-04-18T10:40:00.006-04:00

Here's what I got for FREE this week:

1 bag Milk Bone Essentials (PetSmart)
$1.99 - $2q = FREE (1¢ overage)

2 Reach floss (Publix)
99¢ - $1q = FREE (2¢ overage)

Here's what I got this week for LESS THAN $1 at Publix:

8 Peter Pan Peanut Butter
B1G1 $2.47 ($9.88 for 8) - $1.50q (x2) = $6.88 (86¢ each)

1 Birdseye Steam Fresh veggies
$1.79 - 50¢q (doubled to $1) = 79¢

1 gallon Publix Milk
$1.99 - $1peelie from PF cookies = 99¢

1 bag Snyder's pretzels
$1.50 - $1q = 50¢

5 Quaker Instant Oatmeal
$1.95 = $1qs = 95¢ each

Other great deals at Publix this week:

2 Milkbone Essentials Dog Biscuits
$3.59 - $1.50qs = $2.09 each

2 Milkbone Dog Biscuits
$7.18 for both - $2mq - $2 Publix q = $3.18 ($1.59 each)

6 pints Starbucks ice cream
$1.90 - 75¢qs = $1.15 each

1 Pepperidge Farm Soft Baked Cookies
$2.50 - $1q = $1.50 (and got a $1 peelie for milk)

4 Jell-O pudding six-packs
$2.00 - 35¢ qs (doubled to 70¢) = $1.30 each

Target Deals:

4 Nivea for Women shower gels
$3.49 - $2qs = $1.49 each

2 Old Spice deodorants
$1.82 on clearance - B1G1q = $1.82 for both (91¢ each)

1 Veet
$4.49 - $3q = $1.49

Publix - Great Deals on Cleaning Supplies + More

2010-04-08T13:16:00.005-04:00

Best Deals:

(4) - Yoplait Fiber One 4-pack Yogurt
$1.25 each - $1 mqs = 25¢ each

(6) - Ocean Spray Craisins
$1.12 each - $1 mqs = 12¢ each

(1) - Dawn Dish Washing Liquid
$1.49 - 50¢ publix q - $1 mq = FREE

(2) - Diet 7-Up 2-liter
90¢ each - $1 mqs = FREE + overage

(1) - Publix reusable bag
FREE w/purchase of any two items from Future Friendly flyer

(1) - Tide laundry detergent
$4.99 - $1 publix q - $1 mq = $2.99

Other Deals:

Scott Scented Wipes
$2.29 - $1 mq = $1.29

Dial hand soap pump
$1.39 - 35¢ mq (doubled to 70¢) = 69¢

Cascade dishwashing soap
$3.49 - $1 publix q - $1 mq = $1.49

Downy fabric softener
$3.49 - $1 publix q - $1 mq = $1.49

Chinet crystal tumblers
$2.50 - $1 mq = $1.50

Tide
$4.99 - $1 mq = $3.99

Pompeiian Olive Oil (big bottle)
$6.00 - $1 mq = $5.00

Swiffer sweeper refill cloths
$4.64 - $1 mq = $3.64

Nature Valley bars (value size box)
$5.49 - $2 mq = $3.49

(2) - Nature Valley bars Cranberry/Pomegranate
$3.19 - 40¢ mqs (doubled to 80¢) = $2.39
These were a special request from my husband. Normally, I would have waited for a B1G1 sale, but at least I had coupons.

(2) - Carefree Ultra Protection
$5.82 for both - B1G1 Free mq = $2.91 for both

Tampax (40-count)
$5.49 regular price

Tampax (20 count)
Free w/purchase of 40-count mq

OOP: $43.56
Saved: $63.38
60% Savings

Publix - $2 Meals!

2010-03-19T09:50:00.007-04:00

7 Contessa One-the-Stove Meals
$4 each on sale - $2q(x7) = $2 each

These meals are great. Plus, with all of the great deals on frozen vegetables, I usually open up a bag of Green Giant or Birdseye mixed veggies and add them to one of these Contessa meals. It makes for an even healthier and more filling dinner. Plus, the sauces that come with the meals are usually too syrupy sweet for me -- so adding more veggies really breaks up the concentration of the sauces. I highly recommend these. There are lots of $2 peelies on the bags. For $2 a meal? You can't beat it! My favorites are the orange chicken and shrimp stir-fry. My husband and I can eat delicious dinners for an entire week for only $14!

4 Lance Sandwich Crackers
$1.45 on sale - $1q (x4) = 45¢ each

2 All Small & Mighty detergent (bonus 25% more bottles)
$3 on sale - $1q (x2) = $2 each

Breyer's Ice Cream
$4.99 (full price) - a special request from my husband

Klondike Bars
$1.80 on sale (B1G1)

Publix American Cheese Singles
$2.59 (full price)

Wheat tortillas
$2.99 (full price)

Cascadian Farms Fiber Right Chewy Granola Bars
$2 (on clearance)

Total OOP: $32.72
Saved: $55.28
63% Savings

PuBLiX - Contact Solution + more

2010-03-11T22:09:00.006-05:00

$10 for four bottles ReNu contact solution
On sale for $4.50 each; used $2/1q (x4)
Comes out to $2.50 per bottle. GREAT price for contact solution.

$1 for one box of Kellogg's low-fat granola
On sale for $2; used $1/1q

$1.50 for six 4-packs of YoPlait YoPlus yogurt
On sale for $1.25 each; used $1/1q (x6)
Comes out to about 6¢ per yogurt cup

$0 for 1 bottle SoftScrub Bath & Bowl
On sale for $2.50; used $1.50/1mfq + $1/1competitor q

Total OOP: $13.48 (including tax)
Saved: $46.24
77% Savings

Publix - January 30

2010-01-31T10:47:00.004-05:00

I'm back. My holidays were a bit crazy and then I was out of town for a lot of early January. It sure did feel great getting back to super savings at Publix.

2 Contessa meals
$3.50 each - $2/1 peelies = $1.50 each

4 Eight O'clock Coffee bags
$2.50 each - $1/1 coupons = $1.50 each

2 Yoplait Yo-plus 4-pack yogurts
$1.25 each - $1/1 coupons = 25¢ each

4 Ocean Spray Craisins
$1.15 each - $1/1 peelies = 15¢ each

Total OOP: $10.53
Savings: $40.00

79% Savings

Kroger Cheese

2010-01-31T10:07:00.004-05:00

Rats. I was out of town during the Kroger cheese catalina deal, so I missed out on free cheese. But I'm glad I made it back in time to at least go and grab some cheese blocks for 50 cents each.

10 Kraft Natural Cheese
99¢ each - $1/2 coupons (used 5) = 50¢ each

2 Fideo
49¢ each (no coupons) = 98¢

1 Sure men's deodorant
$2 - $1.50 coupon = 50¢

2 Ortega diced green chilies
$1.20 each - 75¢/2 = $1.65

1 Heinz Ketchup
$1.69 - 75¢ coupon = 94¢

1 Rotel diced tomatoes
99¢ - 30¢ coupon (doubled to 60¢) = 39¢

Total OOP: $9.81
Savings: $32.04

77% Savings

Publix This Week

2009-11-21T09:25:00.008-05:00

FIRST TRIP (Friday)

My sweet kitty-cat Beanie-Weanie wanted to be in the Publix picture this week. Hi, Beanie. The picture above is only from the first trip, minus the Cool Whip for some reason. I made three trips to Publix over the past week. I'm well-stocked on salad dressing (Marzetti & Wishbone)!

1 Sara Lee dessert
$1.69 - $1/1 coupon = 69¢

2 Jose Ole taquitos
$2.50 - $1/1 coupons = $1.50 each

3 Ocean Spray Craisins
$1.15 each - $1/1 coupons = 15¢ each
(got the peelies from OS juice I bought at Target)

1 Sargento shredded cheese
$1.67 - 55¢/1 coupon - $1.12

3 Birds Eye corn
$1.19 each - 50¢/1 coupons (doubled to $1) = 19¢ each

1 Cool Whip
75¢ - 55¢/1 coupon = 20¢

4 Idahoan Potatoes
65¢ each - 40¢/1 coupons (doubled to 80¢) = 20¢ for three
(I had four coupons; only three were scanned; otherwise, they would have been free with overage)

1 McCormick Vanilla
$2.79 - $1/1 coupon = $1.79

4 Marzetti dressings
$1.85 each - 50¢/1 coupons (doubled to $1) = 85¢ each

4 Wishbone dressings
$1.35 each - 75¢/1 coupons = 60¢ each

1 Crisco oil
$1.80 - 55¢/1 coupon = $1.35

1 French's honey dijon mustard
$2.79 - $1/1 coupon = $1.79
(needed this for a chicken recipe I'm going to try)

1 Glass Plus
$1.25 - $1/1 coupon = 25¢

OOP: $17
Saved: $57
77% Savings

SECOND TRIP (Sunday)

2 Sara Lee desserts
$1.99 - $1/1 coupons = 99¢ each

1 Jose Ole mini tacos
$2.50 - $1/1 coupon = $1.50

1 Sargento shredded cheese
$1.67 - 55¢/1 coupon - $1.12

4 Idahoan Potatoes
65¢ each - 40¢/1 coupons (doubled to 80¢) = FREE + overage

1 Smithfield Bacon
$1.99 on sale (no coupon)

2 bags Publix salad
2 for $4.00 (no coupons)

4 Cabot butter
$1.50 each - $1/2 coupons = $1 each

1 Marzetti dressing
$1.85 - 50¢/1 coupon (doubled to $1) = 85¢

OOP: $15.50
Saved: $33.50
68% Savings

THIRD TRIP (Tuesday)

4 Marzetti dressings
$1.85 - 50¢/1 coupons (doubled to $1) = 85¢ each

1 Ocean Spray Craisins
$1.15 - $1/1 peelie = 15¢

4 Wishbone dressings
$1.35 each - 75¢/1 coupons = 60¢ each

OOP: $5.28
Saved: $19.02
78.3% Savings

Target

2009-11-17T15:48:00.008-05:00

It's been a while since I've been to Target for coupon shopping. It's frustrating. Publix has been meeting most of my needs. Target has pretty much lost me as a regular customer due to their inconsistencies in establishing and enforcing any semblance of a coherent and well-practiced coupon policy.

With that disclaimer out of the way, here's how I did today. I went mostly because Ocean Spray juice was on sale for $1.98 and $1/1 Target coupons were expiring today. Overall, I'm pleased and all 4 transactions went well.

Transaction 1:

2 boxes Special K Chocolatey Pretzel Bars
$2.69 each - 75¢/1 coupons = $3.88 for two or $1.94 each
(my husband's favorite snack bar for his lunchbox)

1 Ocean Spray juice 64oz.
$1.98 on sale ($2.59 reg. price) - $1/1 coupon = 98¢

1 Duncan Hines cake mix
97¢ - 50¢/1 coupon = 47¢

2 Kiss My Face facial cleansers
$3.75 on clearance ($15.00 reg. price) - $1/1 coupons = $2.75 each

OOP: $11.37
Saved: $28.16
71.2% Savings

Transaction 2:
2 bags Alexia Crunchy Onions snacks
$2.78 each - $1/1 coupons = $1.78 each
(my husband and i have developed a weak spot for these)

2 more boxes Special K Chocolatey Pretzel Bars
$2.69 each - 75¢/1 coupons = $3.88 for two or $1.94 each

1 Ocean Spray juice 64oz.
$1.98 on sale ($2.59 reg. price) - $1/1 coupon = 98¢

1 Duncan Hines cake mix
97¢ - 50¢/1 coupon = 47¢

OOP: $9.14
Saved: $5.66
38.2% Savings

Transaction 3:
1 Ocean Spray juice 64oz.
$1.98 on sale ($2.59 reg. price) - $1/1 coupon = 98¢

1 Duncan Hines cake mix
97¢ - 50¢/1 coupon = 47¢

1 Burt's Bees blemish stick
$7.99 - $2/1 coupon = $5.99
(this stuff really works for me)

OOP: $7.90
Saved: $4.16
34.2% Savings

Transaction 4:

1 Ocean Spray juice 64oz.
$1.98 on sale ($2.59 reg. price) - $1/1 coupon = 98¢

1 Duncan Hines cake mix
97¢ - 50¢/1 coupon = 47¢

OOP: $1.96
Saved: $2.04
51% Savings

My Target is a stickler for the phrase on their coupons that says "limit one offer per transaction." This is why I had to break things up into four transactions. I wanted to buy 4 Duncan Hines cake mixes and 4 Ocean Spray juices.

The Ocean Spray is for my hub. He drinks a glass of juice every morning and loves Ocean Spray varieties. The cake mixes and all the free frosting I got at Publix recently are for the holidays and for making dessert cupcakes for a Ronald McDonald House dinner that I am organizing (December 18).

Publix - Three Days

2009-11-13T19:54:00.015-05:00

First Trip: $4.85

roughly 24¢ per item

1 Soft Soap hand soap pump
79¢ - 40¢/1 coupon (doubled to 80¢) = Free w/overage

4 boxes Scotties Tissues
$1.25 each - 50¢/1 coupons (doubled to $1) = 25¢ each

2 bags Marzetti croutons
$1.33 each - 50¢/1 coupons (doubled to $1) = 33¢ each

4 cans Progresso black beans
99¢ each - $1/2 coupons (used 2) = 50¢ per can

3 tubs Betty Crocker frosting
95¢ each - 50¢/1 coupons (doubled to $1) = Free w/overage
(going to frost sugar cookies and sprinkle with coarse colored sugar for the holidays)

2 packages of Chinet napkins
95¢ each - $1/1 coupons = Free w/overage
(for donation to Atlanta Ronald McDonald House)

4 bags Green Valley Steamers vegetables
$1.20 each - 50¢/1 coupons (doubled to $1) = 20¢ each
(i don't know why they didn't ring up at 99¢ each; the sign said "99¢ assorted varieties 12 oz bag"; i got the 12 oz bags; oh, well; not complaining that they were 20¢ each)

OOP $4.85
Saved: $24.77
83.6% Savings

Second Trip: $14.49

Saturday, Nov. 14th:

3 tubs Betty Crocker frosting
95¢ each - 50¢/1 coupons (doubled to $1) = Free w/overage

1 box Scotties Tissues
$1.25 - 50¢/1 coupon (doubled to $1) = 25¢

2 bags Marzetti croutons
$1.33 each - 50¢/1 coupons (doubled to $1) = 33¢ each

4 cans Progresso beans
99¢ each - $1/2 coupons (used 2) = 50¢ per can

2 California Pizza Kitchen pizzas
$5.49 each on sale - $1.50/1 coupons = $4.00 each
(thanks iheartpublix for alerting me about this coupon)

1 Betty Crocker cake mix
92¢ (no coupons)

3 sweet vidalia onions
$1.77 (no coupons)

OOP $14.49
Saved: $18.23
55.7% Savings

Third Trip: $5.50

Monday, Nov. 16th:

2 tubs Betty Crocker frosting
95¢ each - 50¢/1 coupons (doubled to $1) = Free w/overage

10 cans Progresso beans
99¢ each - $1/2 coupons (used 5) = 50¢ per can

8 packages of Chinet napkins
95¢ each - $1/1 coupons = Free w/overage
(for donation to Atlanta Ronald McDonald House)

2 4-packs of YoPlus yogurt
$1.25 each - $1/1 coupons = 25¢ each

OOP approx. $5.50
Saved: $31.30
85% Savings

Publix - Great Trip

2009-11-07T14:53:00.008-05:00

Good Deals at Publix -- As Always

Note: Ignore 4 of the Betty Crocker potatoes in picture #2.
The "Value Size" were not on sale. I ended up returning those
four and purchasing the others in the top picture.

4 jars Muir Glen pasta sauce
$1.80 each - $1/1 coupons = 80¢ each

7 packages Nestlé Ultimates refrigerated cookie dough
$1.45 each - $1/1 coupons = 45¢ each
(for holiday parties/get togethers)

1 can Glade air freshener
$1.39 - $1/1 Target coupon = 39¢
(this completes my three items for the $5 SC Johnson rebate offer)

2 boxes Aunt Jemima frozen pancakes
$1.35 each - $1/2 coupon = 85¢ each
(never had these before. hope they're good)

3 bags Nestlé chocolate morsels
$1.25 each - 50¢/1 coupons (doubled to $1) = 25¢ each
(for holiday baking/cookies as gifts)

7 boxes Betty Crocker potatoes
80¢ each - 40¢/1 coupons (doubled to 80¢) = ALL FREE
(for the Atlanta Food Bank, where I'll be volunteering next month)

2 boxes Honey Maid graham crackers
$2.00 each - $1/2 Target coupon = $1.50 each

1 Publix reusable shopping bag (not pictured)
99¢ - Free Item coupon peelie on Betty Crocker potatoes = FREE

2 bags Fresh Express lettuce mixes
$2 each - 55¢/1 coupons = $1.45 each

1 half-gallon Publix half-and-half
$3.39 (no coupon)

4 rolls Scotch high performance packing tape
$1.60 each - $1/1 coupons = 60¢ each
(what a great price!)

2 boxes Gorton's frozen fish fillets
$3.75 each - 55¢/1 coupons = $3.20 each

2 packages Publix lean ground beef
$2.83 - 50¢/1 coupon (doubled to $1) = $1.83
$2.76 - 50¢/1 coupon (doubled to $1) = $1.76

Paid: $29
Saved: $96
77% Savings

This Week at Publix

2009-10-25T16:41:00.005-04:00

First Trip (Sunday):

11 Healthy Choice frozen dinners
varied between $1.99 - $2.50
Used 11 $2/1 coupons
My cost: -.01¢ to 50¢ each

2 boxes Pillsbury Savorings
$1.90 each (B1G1)
Used 2 $0.55/1 coupons
My cost: $1.35 each
(Regular price on these is about $3.80 each)

3 4-packs of Dannon yogurt
$2.00 - $1/1 coupons = $1 each

2 blocks of Sorrento Mozzarella cheese
2/$5 sale - $1/1 coupons = $1.50 each

Milk - $2.59
Half and Half - $1.49
2 boxes Gorton's fish - $6.00

OOP: $22.27
Saved: $46.37
67% savings

Second Trip (Thursday):

4 boxes Nature Valley Granola Bars
4 for $10 sale
- $4/4 in-ad Publix coupon
- 40¢/1 printable (x4) (doubled to 80¢)
= $2.80 for four (70¢ per box)

1 International Delights coffee creamer
$1.50 on sale
- 55¢/1 printable
= 95¢

2 Pillsbury Simply Cookies
$2 each on sale
- $1.25/1 printable (x2)
= $1.50 for two (75¢ each)

OOP: $5.52
Saved: $16.29
75% savings

Good Shopping Day

2009-10-24T20:07:00.015-04:00

CVS:

4 12-packs of soda
FREE
Used 5ECBs and funds from gift card
Received 3ECBs

Rite Aid:

2 Olay quench body lotion
Rite Aid Sale: 2 for $9
Used:
$3/1 Olay lotion (Real Simple November issue)
B1 Olay lotion, G1 Free (Real Simple Nov. issue)
Price for both: $1.50 + .54 tax = $2.04
Stocking stuffers for my mom and sister. Nice.

Publix:

6 boxes cereal - FREE* ($2 each, used $2 coupons)
2 bottles All - $2 each ($2.99 - $1q)
2 6-packs applesauce - $2.37
1 bottle apple juice - $1.79
Paid a little over $8 on this transaction.

*My husband and I counted: We have 22 boxes of cereal in our stockpile that I have gotten for free. I'm volunteering at Ronald McDonald House this holiday season. I'm going to take a bunch of stuff from my stockpile; including some of this cereal. The laundry detergent is also for RMcH Atlanta. They post a wish list.

Target:

1 box Krusteaz cookie mix - 79¢ ($1q)
1 bag Alexia snacks - $1.25 ($1q)
1 bottle cranberry juice - 99¢ ($1 Target q + $1 peelie)
1 package of Archer Farms cookies - 99¢ ($1q)
1 Hormel Compleats - 25¢ ($1q)
1 small artisan bread - 50¢ (50¢ q)
2 Neosporin lip balms - 34¢ each ($3q x2)
1 package Mission tortillas - $2
1 package boneless skinless chicken thighs - $1.50 ($1 peelie)
1 package doggie rawhide chews - $1.34 (clearance)

There was a peelie on the chicken: Get $1 off now when you buy any Mission Tortillas. The chicken was on sale 2/$5 so I got the tortillas so that I could get $1.50 chicken. I could always use some tortillas! I'm Mexican-American! I can do a million things with tortillas. :-)

I'm going back tomorrow for more. Another peelie was: Get $1 off now when you buy French's french fried onions. There was a coupon for the French's onions in my All You magazine at home. So I didn't have it with me.

Candy!

2009-10-20T20:38:00.006-04:00

Coupons.com put out a $2/1 coupon for a 24oz or larger bag of Nestle candies. At work I have access to many computers so I was able to get to 3 computers today and print out 5 coupons (one computer only printed the coupon once).

After work I stopped by Publix and got 5 assortment bags of Baby Ruth/Butterfinger/Crunch miniature bars. They were on sale B1G1/$5.99, or roughly $3 each. So each bag cost me $1.

Total: $5.28
Savings: $24.95
83%

Publix - 100% Free

2009-10-15T10:26:00.006-04:00

I got 8 of the $1/1 Bumblebee Tuna coupons. The Publix near my work had them on sale for 99¢ each, so I was able to get 8 of the 2.5oz pouches for absolutely free. Also, this was the first time that a Publix cashier adjusted my coupon down to the actual price, so I didn't get "overage." No complaints!

Rite Aid & CVS

2009-10-05T10:49:00.004-04:00

A very satisfying trip to Rite Aid for Craisins. My husband loves these and I have a hard time keeping up with him! My Publix stores don't accept Rite Aid/Walgreen's/CVS coupons as competitors; so when Rite Aid put out $1/1 coupons for Craisins on coupons.com, I knew I'd have to make a special trip for them. I went in expecting to pay around $2.30 per bag since normal price on these are around $3.30. There was no indication on the shelf tag that they were on sale, so I was pleasantly surprised when they rang up at $2 each. Bonus!

2 bags Craisins
$2 each (on sale)
-$1/1 coupons (x2)
= $2 for two, or $1 each

1 pack of "N" shaped post-it notes
(A stocking stuffer for my sister Naomi)
25¢ on clearance (75% off)

Total w/tax: $2.33

Headed over to CVS for some deals. I came out ahead again. Love CVS.

8 bags of Halloween candy miniatures
$22 - $1/1 coupons (x3) = $19
Earned $5 ECBs
(Like getting 8 bags for $14)

1 tube Colgate Advanced toothpaste
$2.99 - $1/1 coupon = $1.99
Earned $2 ECBs
(Like getting it for FREE)

1 bottle Revlon nail polish
$3.99
Earned $3 ECBs
(Like getting it for 99¢)

Also used:
$4/$20 CVS coupon (mailer)
$12 ECBs

OOP: $8.72
ECBs earned: $11
Came out $2.28 ahead

Publix on a Friday Afternoon

2009-10-03T09:33:00.009-04:00

I'm very happy with the deals I got at Publix yesterday:

2 bottles 2-liter caffeine free diet Pepsi
$1 each - 25¢ qs (doubled to 50¢) = 50¢ each

2 cans Muir Glen Organic Tomato Sauce
$1.78 for two - $1/2 q = 78¢/2 or 39¢ each

3 bags New England Coffee
mmmm...french vanilla and hazelnut creme
$2.90 each - $1/1 qs = $1.90 each
(that's the price of 1 medium cup of coffee at Starbucks)

2 boxes Progresso chicken broth
$2.59 each - 50¢ qs (doubled to $1) = $1.59 each
(these coupons were about to expire and I really wanted to use them; was hoping/waiting for a sale but it never happened; i use a lot of chicken broth in my cooking so $1.59 per box is a great price anyway!)

4 boxes Green Giant frozen veggies
$1 each - $1/2 qs = $2 for 4 or 50¢ each

MY FAVORITE DEAL THIS WEEK:
5 packages of Nestle Toll House Ultimates refrigerated cookie dough
$1.45 each - $1qs = 45¢ each
That's $2.25 for FIVE big batches of decadent cookies for the upcoming holidays! (All the packages went straight into the freezer.)

6 boxes of Klondike 100 Calorie ice cream novelties
$3 each - $1 qs = $2 each
My husband and I are limiting ourselves to 1 small dessert per day. These bars are only 2 points each on the Weight Watchers program. So I was happy to get them for $2 each when the regular price on them is close to $4 per box.

I got other things not on sale/no coupons. We needed bread, milk, and some produce. Overall I saved 54% on this trip. No complaints.

OOP: $34
Saved: $41

CVS 9/27

2009-09-27T18:10:00.004-04:00

4 packs of Winterfresh Gum
$4 - $2q (B1G1) = $2
Earned 1 ECB

1 Gillette Fusion razor
$9.99 - $4q = $5.99
Earned 5 ECBs

3 twelve-packs Diet Coke
$11

1 Vaseline Sheer Infusion lotion
$7.99 - $1.50q = $6.49
Earned 7 ECBs

Total: $32.98
Used: $7.50 manufacturer coupons
Used 11.99 ECBs
Used $5/25 CVSq

OOP: $9.64 for 9 items
Average of $1.07 per item
Earned 13 ECBs
Came out $3.36 ahead

Publix 9/26

2009-09-26T14:19:00.012-04:00

OOP: $23.60
Saved: $39.34
63% Savings

2 four-packs Yoplait Yoplus yogurt
$1.25 - $1q = 25¢ each

2 jars Mt. Olive pickles
$1.10 - 50¢q (doubled) = 10¢ each

1 small box Cascade
$3.49 - $1q (expired today) = $2.49

1 large bag Hershey's Kisses
$2.75 - $1q = $1.75

1 bag Gala Red Apples
$3.49 - $1q = $2.49

1 tub Marzetti caramel apple dip
$2.99

4 containers Sabra hummus
$2.50 - $1.50q = $1.00 each
LOVE hummus

2 half gallons Smart Balance milk
$2.50 - 75¢q = $1.75 each

2 bags Bird's Eye Steam Fresh veggies
89¢ - 50¢q (doubled) = -11¢ (money maker)

2 bags Bird's Eye Voila dinners
$5 - $1q = $4 for both ($2 each)

Kroger

2009-09-21T12:39:00.005-04:00

I combined some sales with coupons at Kroger this week:

1 box yogurt Cheerios
$1.77 on sale - .75q = $1.02

1 bottle Old Orchard juice
$2.19 on sale - $1q = $1.19

4 pkgs Sara Lee lunch meat
$4.59 on sale - $3q = $1.59 each

1 bottle Axe shower gel
$3.99 on sale - $1.50q = $2.49

I also got eggs and produce. My savings were 48%.

Walgreen's - Came Out Ahead

2009-09-16T11:19:00.011-04:00

I stopped by Walgreen's last night and got:

1 bottle Listerine Total Care ($2.99)
1 bag of True North snacks ($3.00)
1 reusable water bottle (50 cents on clearance)

Used $1/1 Listerine coupon and $1/1 True North coupon.
Listerine was giving $2 in RRs and True North was giving $3 in RRs.

I paid $4.85 out of pocket and got back $5 in Register Rewards, so I actually made 15 cents on this small excursion.

Free, Nearly Free, and Big Savings

2009-09-15T09:25:00.007-04:00

I had a great shopping weekend, even though I was sick with a bad cold.

1 Free Rotisserie Chicken from Whole Foods. They put an internet printable coupon out a few weeks ago and it was about to expire so I went and got a nice herb-crusted rotisserie chicken for absolutely 100% free. I didn't even have to pay tax. It made three meals! And it was delicious. Thank you Whole Foods.

Free toothpaste and nearly free drinking cups from CVS. My hub's favorite toothpaste was on sale for $2.99 and was giving back $2 in ECBs and I had a $1 coupon and $2 ECBs to roll. I got some cute little drinking cups clearanced to 50 cents as my filler item. For the Colgate toothpaste and cups I paid 56 cents.

Then I headed down to Publix for a number of great coupon items:
Healthy Choice Cafe Steamers for 50 cents each (got 8 of these) = $2
Green Giant frozen veggies (8) = Free after coupons
Dove ice cream bars for $1.20 (used a Target coupon) - decadent and delicious
Wanchai Ferry dinner for two - $3 after sale and coupon
Mott's applesauce 10 for $10 (got 3) - my hub's favorite

Kroger was good to me, too:
2 Nestle chocolate chips - $1 each after sale and coupon
2 Nestle refrigerated cookie dough - $1 each after sale and coupons
2 Purina One 3.5 lb cat food - $2 each after sale and coupons

A great shopping weekend. My husband I have been well-stocked since I started couponing. We've been able to save enough to get our house painted professionally. It's stunningly beautiful and I owe part of it to savings from coupon clipping!

Publix

2009-08-22T12:04:00.006-04:00

76% Savings
average of 85¢ per item

A few months ago Publix had Morningstar Farms entrees AND Starbucks ice cream on sale. I'm so glad they did it again!

4 pints Starbuck's Ice Cream - 80¢ each
10 Morningstar Farms entrees - 90¢ each
2 Jello pudding multipacks - $2.99 each
4 Yoplait Yoplus 4-packs - 25¢ each
2 boxes Back to Nature cookies - 44¢ each
4 Mott's 6-pack applesauce - 67¢ each
1 Febreze air freshener - $1.50
5 bags Dove chocolate - $1.15 each

Coupons used:
$1/1 Starbucks x 4
$1/1 any Morningstar Farms entrees x 4
$1/1 Morningstar Farms burger patties x 4
$1/2 Morningstar Farms entrees x 1
50¢/1 any Jello pudding x 2 (doubled to $1)
$1/1 Yoplus x 4
$1/1 any Back to Nature product x 2
$1/1 Mott's applesauce x 4
50¢/1 Febreze air freshener (doubled to $1)
$1/1 Dove chocolate x 5
$5/$30 total purchase from Publix

OOP: $27.11
Saved: $86.29

Kroger & Target

2009-08-16T18:34:00.009-04:00

39¢

Here's how I got both of these for thirty-nine cents:

I had $1 e-coupons loaded onto my Kroger card for each of these products.
I also had a coupon for $2/1 Gillette Fusion razor.
I also had a "Buy a Fusion razor get a Gillette body wash for free" coupon.
The razor was on clearance for $4.39 and the body wash was $4.49 = $8.88
Subtract $4.49 for the free body wash coupon = $4.39
Subtract $2 from the Cell Fire coupons = $2.39
Subtract $2 for the Gillette razor coupon = $0.39

Target had SoftSoap pumps on sale for $1. Coupons.com recently had $1/1 coupons available and I was able to print four. So I got four of those for free.

Target also had an amazing clearance sale on many Mexican food items. I was able to get my favorite Herdez salsas for 1/3 the normal price.