Nerdy Wisconsin Mama

Why work harder?!

2017-10-04T08:39:00.001-07:00

Have you ever wanted to do something, but just weren't sure exactly HOW to go about it?

Or worse...you had plenty of resources, but weren't sure which resources could be the most effective and helpful?

I know that I feel much like the latter; the level of information overload, and general overwhelm as a new blogger is mind boggling. I want to write! I want to be successful! But what if...you just aren't quite sure how?

Enter the Genius Blogger's Toolkit. Chock full of plenty of e-books, courses, and other resources by seasoned, successful bloggers, you'll find what you need to help you succeed.

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You’ve got more people to serve, a greater mission to accomplish, bigger dreams to achieve, and (let’s face it) you’d wouldn’t mind bringing home a bigger income, either.
But you don’t really want to spend a zillion dollars in order to become a better blogger.
Besides, those marketing dollars in your budget? You don’t want to have to think about where to spend them. Preserve those precious brain cells for something more important, right?
You prefer a no-brainer approach whenever possible. Maximum value, minimum costs, easy as pie… that’s the name of your game.
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I'll be posting more about my favorite selections from the Toolkit as the week progresses. Stay tuned, and check it out!

Moving Forward

2017-08-01T12:17:00.001-07:00

It's been a while....life has gotten in the way.

Chronic illness, two moves, childrens' needs, extracurriculars, and LIFE.

It's amazing how it will eat you alive if you allow it to, if you don't tell it "no...you cannot do that."

For two years, roughly, I've done just that. I've let it consume me, chew me up, and spit me out like a piece of fat. It hasn't been easy, and there are certainly people who have greater struggles than our own, but suffice it to say, I had to stand up and say, "No. You cannot do that. Enough is enough."

We have said no to many things. We've said no to:

-competitive dance team for my daughter. She likes dancing, but doesn't love it. And if you don't LOVE it, I won't force you to keep doing it. Especially considering this year, we were looking at a weekly commitment of 3-4 nights of practices at 2+ hours a pop each. She was upset at first, but since summer has begun, she's had the chance to try new activities and hobbies - things she previously couldn't do because we were always running to the studio. Someday, she might go back to dancing. Someday, she might not. It's her choice.

-volunteering. At this point in our lives, we have our volunteer positions and loves. We can't help out any more than we already are without sacrificing time at home, and together.

-expensive get togethers and vacations with family and friends. We simply do not have it in our budget right now to spend $400+ on a weekend away, as fun as it could be! Those funds are unfortunately allocated to paying some student loan debt down, and funding insulin when our insurance (once again!) refuses to cover it for our son.

- people who do not love us for us. This last year has been a year of growth. We have our principles, we have our needs. If someone cannot love us in spite of differences we may have, then perhaps it is best they aren't part of our lives. We are okay with that; God bless them, that's okay! We are all different, and that is just the way it is meant to be.

But in all this negativity, this NO season, there are so many yes's to be said.

We say YES to:

-frugal living. Why spend $36 on one shirt when that $36 will get us three shirts, two pairs of pants, and a skirt that we LOVE from the local "Store Tags Still Attached" rack at our local thrift shop?

-exercise. I'm a runner. And while I don't really love paying to run a race, I do love to log the miles!

-music. As a musician, I'm getting back to playing with my local symphony. One night a week will not kill the calendar! My kids both take music lessons as well. It speaks to our souls.

-frugal, healthy eating. In the coming days, weeks, and months, I'll be doing frugal cooking posts as I learn to improve my camera skills. You can eat well, and still live within your means!

-reading. Both of my children have discovered book series they love in the past few weeks and months. My husband is still reading a fantastic book on military strategy during a key battle of the Civil War. And me? I'm polybiblious as ever - I'll be posting a reading list, hopefully weekly!

In all of this, I hope to transform this blog. I hope to provide a breath of fresh air if you've stumbled upon my little corner of the Web, and I hope to be "...a candle in the darkness" to you if you are struggling.

Read on.This Nerdy Mom is out for now. Peace!

2016-09-13T07:55:00.001-07:00

It’s here! I cannot contain my excitement!

Today, Lauren’s book, The Recovering Spender, is finally being released!

You see, we all have a little spender in us. Whether it is that craft beer, dinners out, clothing…everyone has something that trips them up. Lauren knows. She’s been there. $40,000 in debt been there!

What I loved the most about the book is that she addresses “triggers”. I often joke that I black out when I go into Target. I have the best intentions; I go in, clutching my coupons and my deal scenario, and walk out with $300 worth of items that I have no idea how they got in my cart! According to the book, Target is my trigger!

That being said, I love that she addresses getting out of debt and addressing being a spender as a 12 step program – spending is an ADDICTION! Being the spender in my family, this resounded with me. I’m hurting my family by not staying “within my fence” as Lauren discusses in the book. As someone who is trying to pay down debt myself, I have so much HOPE now after reading this book.

I’ll be posting more today about the book, but if you are looking to get out of debt, give this book a look. For $10, it is a great investment, and you receive $75 in freebies from Lauren to help you on your path to being debt free.

Are you looking to cut costs?

2014-08-19T10:36:00.004-07:00

Cutting costs seems to be a consistent catch phrase, regardless of the decade. Families constantly seek to provide for themselves what they need and what they want, for less.

Having started beginning to raise a family right before the Recession hit, my husband and I weren't immune to this mentality. We had two children smack dab in the middle of the Great Recession. We even bought our first home mere months before that October day in 2008, and are still in that 2 bedroom home. It is inexpensive, and while our children still share a room in a home that we intended to move out of within a year, we still reside here because it is affordable, and allows us a small bit of freedom in our budget.

One thing that has kept me on track all these years is using coupons and shopping sales. I am able to feed my family the way I prefer, while allowing for special treats from time to time. I am able to spend merely pennies sometimes on things we need and use often, such as sunscreen, cleaning products, and laundry products. I am able to buy organic occasionally because I am able to save on staples that I've purchased inexpensively.

Learning how to coupon was never an issue for me; my mother taught me when I was a young child, so I grew up thinking everyone couponed, everyone knew how, and that it was normal! It wasn't until I started meeting new mom friends that I realized this is a skill that not everyone possesses, or even knows how to begin doing on their own!

As couponing has changed, and has adapted to our digital age, even an old dog like me can learn a few new tricks! Websites, e-courses, and online classes have all been a boon to my 'continuing education.' Grocery University is no different - I purchased it once on sale, and adored it then. Now, it is redesigned, and being offered at a sale price!

If you are interested, you can click the banner - not only will you receive a valuable education, you will learn a skill that can be passed down to your children, to other friends, and family.

**As an affiliate of Grocery University, I do receive a small commission for your purchase, and want you to know that ahead of time. That being said, I would endorse this product whether I received compensation or not - everyone should have access to this wonderful resource!

Survival Mode? No way!

2014-01-20T21:09:00.000-08:00

It's been a while since I've had a chance to blog. I'm ashamed to admit it, but I've gotten bogged down in life, and literally have lived in a state of survival mode since last October. Ugly things have happened - depression, a diagnosis of diabetes, leaving a job for a new one, job loss...it hasn't been easy here.

So I did what any "supermom" would do - I set it on cruise and shifted into Survival Mode. And let me tell you; that's not a fun holding pattern to be in. I hoped and prayed that things would change...I tried and tried, but it all stayed the same. It was pretty yucky, if you asked anyone in my house. It was downright ugly sometimes dealing with a new Type 1 diabetes diagnosis in one of my beautiful, darling children. Watching this child struggle with his new normal has been heartbreaking for us; trying to get him the best care possible isn't hard where we live...but it is time consuming. Worth it, but an hour to the hospital clinic, an hour or more at the clinic, and then an hour back, at least once a week? Tiring, to say the least.

Then, my friend Crystal had exciting news: she was releasing a new book, "Say Goodbye to Survival Mode". I cannot express how excited I was to see her publish a second book...nevermind that it is being released on January 21st, yours truly's birthday! I applied to be part of her launch team, and voila! I am a part of it. I get to help change someone's life from survival mode to LIVING in grace!!!

I received a promotional copy for my thoughts and consideration, but I won't lie...I bought a copy anyway. A PAPER copy...not a Kindle copy. PAPER, I tell you! A real, live book! (Those of you who know me know this is a huge deal, as I like to use my Kindle to hide my book addiction from my husband...who already knows of said addiction but pretends occasionally to be surprised by it anyway).

Anyhow...you really need to read this book if you are struggling with slowing down,with creating margin in your life, or even with the ability to say no. Crystal is raw, she's honest, and real. She's been there, and gets it. It spoke to me in a way most self help books haven't in the past - her experiences weren't abnormal, and her outcomes weren't unattainable for the average (real) mom.

So get ready ladies...say goodbye to survival mode! Say hello to LIVING!

2012-10-25T13:44:00.002-07:00

Discipline. We all know what it means. But since Mr. Webster is my friend...I thought I'd provide you with the definition of discipline.

According to Merriam Webster, there are 6 definitions of discipline. They are, in order:

1: punishment

obsolete : instruction

: a field of study

: training that corrects, molds, or perfects the mental faculties or moral character

a : control gained by enforcing obedience or order

b : orderly or prescribed conduct or pattern of behavior

c : self-control

: a rule or system of rules governing conduct or activity

(Source: www.m-w.com)

I think focusing on definitions 3, 4, 5c, and 6 are most apropos for the conversation we are about to have. But first, I have a confession to make: I am not disciplined. Not.at.all. I expect my children to obey me without question when issued an order, or are asked to do something. Me? Not so much. Those socks in my laundry basket? They have been there for MONTHS. We just pick from the basket. (Mom, if you're reading, I know, I know...you're cringing and you'll probably scold me when I see you next, but I really just HATE FOLDING SOCKS!!!) Piles of random paperwork? Check. My "piling" habits drives my husband bonkers. But I keep doing it, much to his chagrin.

Sure, I'm great if I have something outside the home to do - I'm teaching some couponing courses right now, and my planning for those is stellar. I know what I want to say, cover, etc. But INSIDE my house? That's another story. Sure, I have two young kids. It may be a bit messy occasionally in the evenings because of the toys and all the play that has happened. My house is sanitary and clean. But the random stuff? Nope. Not even close. It gets pushed off, forgotten, neglected. My family deserves my best. I deserve my best!!!

So how can we apply the above definitions to our lives? Do we go read a bunch of self help books on organization and self improvement? Sure, you can...but they're not going to FIX the problem. They're just tools to help you fix that stinky ol' problem. But what IS the problem?

As Crystal Paine says in her 21 Days to a More Disciplined Life ebook, it's me. I'M the problem. Cute, curly haired, little ol' me. I'm my own issue. (Dang it...glad I got those self help books from the library and didn't spend anything on them!) But how on Earth do I fix me!?

Crystal's book isn't going to fix things overnight; it is 21 days after all. It will take a while to chuck those old habits, and learn new ones. But I can guarantee you that she'll walk you through what needs to be done to learn that new habit, and chuck the old ones. Little by little, bit by bit.

Right now, I'm offering a free copy to the first 5 readers to comment with their greatest discipline struggles by the morning of October 26 - the ebook is only $.99 until then, and after that, it will go up to $4.99 (which, if you've followed Crystal's blogs or read her other ebooks, you know that this will be a great item to purchase!! And trust me...if you IMPLEMENT the suggestions in each day, you WILL see change. (Please note, I was provided a free copy of this ebook to preview, and links to the item are my affiliate links.)

$3 off of Fresh Express Salad Coupon - HURRY! HIGH VALUE!

2012-10-19T12:14:00.000-07:00

Wow! $3 off of Fresh Express salads! We don't see this often! Pick N Save/Copps shoppers - this should make for a free bag of salad, and some nice overage. Just make sure you grab something to cover the overage! :)

Hurry and get this coupon printed! You can sign up for the monthly email if you'd like - I did, so I don't forget. Next month, you get free bananas with two bags of Fresh Express salad purchased. We go through at least 2 bags a week here, so whoo hoo!

Quick! Hurry! GO! :)

Never Say Never

2012-10-18T13:38:00.001-07:00

Today, I realized something while making binner for my kids. (What's binner, you ask? Breakfast + Dinner = binner. Otherwise known as, Mama's making pancakes, sausages, and fruit because she doesn't feel like cooking...)

After I enjoyed two nice homebrews yesterday, I said I wouldn't have any beer or wine the rest of the weekend.

I said I'd never have kids.

I said I'd never have credit card debt again.

I actually say a lot of nevers, all the time. And they're always subject to change. For example...I mentioned I made Binner for the kids tonight while the Hubster stepped out in search of a certain type of beer: we brew our own, and he wanted a professionally done version of what we brewed last night, for comparisons' sake. Whilst flipping hoecakes for the kids, my son says to me in his sweet little voice, "Mama, thank you for making this dinner for me. I love pancakes. Thank you for making dinner." When you say things like that, how could I possibly say no?

However, in the interest of full disclosure, yep. We have some credit card debt to pay off. Granted, I know a lot of people do. And I'm not a Dave Ramsey junkie like so many out there; yes, it's best to have as little debt as possible, I won't dispute that. But to not use credit cards at all if you are responsible with them? Thing is...we let things get away from us. It happens. LIFE happens. It is NOT realistic to expect to pay for your first house in cash - it IS realistic, however, to have enough cash for a hefty downpayment.

I never said I'd be a stay at home mom - those chicks waste their time!

Yeah. Right. I have multiple degrees, and I'm working on a double masters' degree right now - it will be a few years yet before I'm completely done, defending my thesis, taking my comprehensive final, etc. But for now, this is okay. This is perfect. I do what I want, I write what I want, and I work when I want - I can work part time while my kids are at preschool, and operate my cleaning and dog walking business. I am my own boss.

Life is full of nevers...and smashing those nevers to bits is one of the best parts of life!

2012-10-18T13:35:00.001-07:00

Pick N Save Deals (with matchups and links), 10/18 - 10/24

Don't forget every Wednesday and Saturday, you can double 5 coupons per order with a grocery order of $25! Thanks to Karen over at Creativecouponing.com for help with being on top of the Roundy's scene!

PRODUCE

Roundy's Celery - $1.00

Green Asparagus - $1.88

Fresh Express 3 color Coleslaw - $1.00

MEAT & SEAFOOD

Roundy's Bratwurst, Polish or Italian Sausage 20 oz - $2.99

USDA Choice Black Angus Beef Boneless Rump, Sirloin Tip or Eye or Round Roast - $3.88

lunchables Lunch Combo's or Snack Dups - 5 for $5 wyb 5 more more (others $1.35

Jennie O Frozen Hen or Tom Turkey - .79 lb

DAIRY & REFRIGERATED

Roundy's Greek Yogurt - .88

Kraft Shredded Chunk or Big Slice Cheese - $1.88

Kemps Cottage Cheese - $1.50

Kemps Flavored Milk - $1.50

Kemps or Mid American Farms Sour Cream or Dip - $1.00

Land o Lakes Spreadable Butter - $1.50

Land or Lakes Margarine or Buttery Spread - .99

FROZEN

Roundy's Ice Cream 56 oz - $2.59

Westpac Vegetables - $1.00
Buy $25 worth of product through 12/31 and get $5 catalina coupon

.50/1 FlavRPac or Westpac Product, (exp 01/01/70) 9/9 SS

Final price: FREE after doubled coupon

Palermos Thin Crust, hand Tossed or Flatbread Pizza - $3.99

$1/2 Palermo's Premium Pizzas (IE), includes Primo Thin, Hand Tossed Style, Naturally Rising and Stone Baked 03/02/11 Bricks (exp 12/31/50)
$1/1 Palermo's Pizza, Tossed Style or Primo Thin 08/19/12 SS Insert (exp 10/31/12)

Final price: as low as $1.99 after doubled coupon

Newman's Own Pizza - 3 for $9.99 (must buy 3)

$1/1 Newman's Own Thin & Crispy Pizza 09/16/12 RP Insert (exp 10/27/12)
$1/1 Newman's Own Thin & Crispy Pizza 10/01/12 Coupons.com (exp 11/03/12)

Final price: $1.33 each after 3 doubled coupons

Smart One Meals - $2.00

Stouffer's meals or French Bread Pizza - $2.20
Buy $50 worth Nestle Meals through 12/31 w/ card and Get a Coupon for $5 off

$1/2 Stouffer's Entree, single serve, 21 oz 09/09/12 RP Insert (exp 12/31/12)

Final price: $1.20 each after doubled coupon

De Wafel Bakkers Pancakes - $1.98
-Use $1 off in the in store flyer (not sure if it is manufacturer or store coupon)

Final price: FREE after doubled coupon IF it is a manufacturer coupon or .98 if store coupon

Rhodes Warm N Serv Rolls - $1.98

$1/2 Rhodes Warm & Serve Rolls 08/26/12 RP Insert (exp 10/21/12)

Final price: .98 each after doubled coupon

Old Orchard Apple, Cranberry or Pomegranate Juice Blends - $1.50

$1/4 Old Orchard Juice Concentrates 03/20/12 Old Orchard (exp 12/31/50)

Final price: $1.00 each after doubled coupon

Farm Rich Appetizers - BOGO FREE

$1.50/2 Farm Rich Snacks 10/01/12 Coupons.com (exp 11/03/12)
$1.50/2 Farm Rich 09/30/12 SS Insert (exp 12/04/12)
$1.50/2 Farm Rich Snacks 09/10/12 Farm Rich (exp 12/31/50)
$0.75/1 Farm Rich Snack 02/21/11 Farm Rich (exp 12/31/50)

Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream or Greek Yogurt - $3.50

$1/2 Ben & Jerry's Greek Frozen Yogurt, pints 10/12/12 Coupons.com (exp 11/03/12)

Final price: $2.50 each after coupon

GROCERY

Kellogg's Cereal (selected kinds) or Pop tarts - $2.88
Buy 4, Get 1 8 ct pop tarts FREE instantly at checkout with card

Progresso Classics Soup - .88

$1/4 Progresso Soup Cans 09/09/12 SS Insert (exp 11/03/12)
$1/4 Progresso Soup 10/07/12 GM Insert (exp 12/01/12)

Final price: .38 each after doubled coupon

Campbell's Chicken Noodle or Tomato Soup - .88

$0.40/3 Campbell's Condensed Soups, Excluding Great for Cooking Soups 10/01/12 Coupons.com (exp 11/03/12)
$1/5 Campbell's Condensed Soups, excluding Great for Cooking Soups 10/03/12 Campbell's Kitchen (exp 11/10/12)
$0.40/3 Campbell's Condensed Soups, excluding Chicken Noodle, Tomato and Great for Cooking 09/09/12 SS Insert (exp 10/21/12)
$0.40/2 Campbell's Condensed Soups, excluding Chicken Noodle, Tomato and Great for Cooking 09/09/12 SS Insert (exp 10/21/12)
$0.40/3 Campbell's Condensed Soups, excluding Cream of Mushroom or Cream of Chicken 09/16/12 SS Insert (exp 11/04/12)
$0.40/4 Campbell's Condensed Chicken Noodle or Tomato Soup 10/07/12 SS Insert (exp 11/30/12)

Final price: as low as .48 each after doubled coupon

Medium Red or Golden Delicious Apples - .88

Roundy's Hamburger or Hot Dog Buns 8 ct - .88

Hunt's Snack Pack pudding or gel - $1.00
Buy 5 with card, Get 1 FREE instantly at checkout

Final price: .83 each

Barilla Pasta - $1.00

$1/2 Barilla, pasta AND sauce jar 09/30/12 SS Insert (exp 11/24/12)

Trident Gum 18 ct - $1.00

$1/3 Trident Gum Single Packs (exp 01/01/70) 10/14 SS
$1/3 Trident Gum Single Packs 09/03/12 Facebook (exp 12/31/50)

Final price: .33 each after doubled coupon

Doritos, Sun Chips or Lay's Kettle Cooked Chips - $2.99

$1/2 Frito-Lay Lay's Kettle Cooked, 8 oz+ 09/30/12 Pepsico~ Moments to Save Insert (exp 10/20/12)
$0.55/1 Doritos Jacked Chips, 10.5 oz+ 09/30/12 Pepsico~ Moments to Save Insert (exp 10/20/12)

Final price: as low as $1.89 after doubled coupon

Hershey's or Mars LARGE Bag Candy 30-42 oz - $7.98

$1/1 Mars Product, 30 oz+ 09/25/12 All You, OCTOBER 2012 (exp 10/31/12)
$1/1 Hershey Assorted Snack Size Bag, 22 oz+ 10/14/12 SS Insert (exp 10/31/12)

Final price: $5.98 after doubled coupon

Hershey's Snack Size, Mars or nestle Fun Size Candy 15-31 oz - $4.99

$1.50/3 Nestle Fun Size or Halloween Candy, 9.2-12.8 oz 10/04/12 CouponNetwork.com (exp 11/05/12)
$1/1 Mars Product, 30 oz+ 09/25/12 All You, OCTOBER 2012 (exp 10/31/12)
$1/1 Mars Brand Seasonal Products, p.33 12/12/11 All You, Jan 2012 (exp 12/18/12)
$1/2 Hershey's Chocolates, 9.4 oz+ 09/09/12 SS Insert (exp 10/20/12)
$1/1 Hershey Assorted Snack Size Bag, 22 oz+ 10/14/12 SS Insert (exp 10/31/12)
$1/3 Hershey Reese's, Hershey, Kit Kat, Twizzlers or Jolly Rancher Snack Size Bags, 8 oz+ 10/14/12 SS Insert (exp 10/31/12)

Final price: as low as $2.99 each (if sizes are correct on product)

Buy 4 Boxes of Post Cereal or Treats at Reg price and get $5 off instantly at Checkout with card PLUS get a coupon for a FREE gallon of milk
-Basically take $1.25 off each box of cereal minus any coupons you have too

$1/2 Post ,Honey Bunches or Oats, 13 oz+ 10/07/12 SS Insert (exp 11/18/12)

Betty Crocker, Ocean Spray or Mott's Fruit Snacks - $2.00

$0.50/2 Betty Crocker, Mott's, or Ocean Spray Fruit Snacks 10/07/12 GM Insert (exp 12/01/12)

Final price: $1.50 each after doubled coupon

Hamburger Helper - $1.25

$0.75/3 Hamburger Helper, Tuna Helper OR Chicken Helper Home Cooked Skillet 10/01/12 Coupons.com (exp 11/03/12)
$0.75/3 Hamburger Helper Home Cooked Skillet Meals 09/09/12 SS Insert (exp 11/03/12)
$0.75/3 Hamburger Helper Meals 10/07/12 GM Insert (exp 12/01/12)

Final price: .75 each after doubled coupon

General Mills Super Size Cereal (selected Kinds) - $3.50

Check the Coupon Database for Coupons (exp 01/01/70)

Hormel Chili with Beans - $1.50

$1/2 Hormel Chili Products 09/09/12 SS Insert (exp 11/05/12)

Final price: .50 after doubled coupon

Buy any 5 Participating Items, Save $5 Instantly

Nabisco teddy Grahams - $2.79

Final price: $1.79 after deal

Nabisco Ritz Crackers - $2.79

Final price: $1.79 after deal

Nabisco Triscuit, Wheat Thins, Better Cheddars, Socialbles or Chicken in a Biskit Crackers - $2.79

Final price: $1.79 after deal

Ritz Crackerfuls - $2.79

$1/2 Ritz Crackerfuls 09/25/12 Facebook (exp 12/31/12)

Final price: .79 each after doubled coupon and deal

Nabisco Oreo Cookies - $2.99

Final price: $1.99 after deal

Honey Maid Grahams - $2.99

Final price: $1.99 after deal

Nabisco Newton Cookies - $2.99

Final price: $1.99 after deal

Nabisco Toasted Chips - $2.99

$1.00 off any TWO (2) RITZ and/or WHEAT THINS Toasted Chips products (8.1 oz.) (exp 01/01/70)

Final price: .99 each after doubled coupon and deal

Kraft Easy Cheese - $2.99

Final price: $1.99 after deal

Nabisco Nilla Wafers - $2.99

Final price: $1.99 after deal

Nabisco Single Serve Snacks - $5.29

Final price: $4.29 after deal

PERSONAL CARE

Bic Disposable Shavers 3-10 ct - $4.49

$2/1 Bic Hybrid Advance 4 Disposable Razor 08/27/12 Facebook (exp 12/31/50)
B1G1 BIC Razor, disposable, up to $7.49 10/14/12 SS Insert (exp 11/11/12)

Final price: 2.25 each

Aussie Products - $2.50

$1/2 Aussie, excludes travel or trial 09/16/12 SS Insert (exp 10/31/12)
$1/2 Herbal Essences or Aussie 10/07/12 RP Insert (exp 11/30/12)

Final price: $1.50 each after doubled coupon

Always Pads or Liners - $3.24

$1/2 Always, pads or liners, exclude trial/travel 09/30/12 P&G Insert (exp 10/31/12)

Final price: $2.24 each after doubled coupon

Vicks, Dayquil, Nyquil - $6.49

$3/2 Vicks, excluding VaopDrops and ZZZQuil, exclude trial/travel 09/30/12 P&G Insert (exp 10/31/12)
$1/1 Vicks, excluding VaopDrops and ZZZQuil, exclude trial/travel 09/30/12 P&G Insert (exp 10/31/12)

Gillette, Old Spice, Ivory or Olay Body Wash - $3.49

$3/2 Olay Body Wash, bars, excludes Simply Olay and travel or trial 09/16/12 SS Insert (exp 10/31/12)
$1/2 Gillette, body wash or deodorant, exclude trial/travel 09/30/12 P&G Insert (exp 10/31/12)

Suave Deodorant - $2.00

$0.50/1 Suave, deodorant 10/14/12 RP Insert (exp 11/11/12)

Final price: $1.00 each after doubled coupon

Suave 18 oz Lotion - $2.00

$2/1 Suave, body lotion, 18 oz+ 10/14/12 RP Insert (exp 11/11/12)

Final price: FREE

Suave Shampoo / Conditioner - $2.00

B1G1 Suave Professionals Styling Product WYB Shampoo AND Conditioner 09/30/12 RP Insert (exp 10/28/12)
$0.50/2 Suave Professionals, shampoo or conditioner 10/14/12 RP Insert (exp 11/11/12)

Final price: as low as $1 each

Suave Body Wash - $2.00

$0.75/3 Suave Naturals or Men, body wash 10/14/12 RP Insert (exp 11/11/12)

Final price: $1.50 each after doubled coupon

HOUSEHOLD

Febrese Air Effects or Set & Refresh - $2.79

$1/1 Febreze Set & Refresh, exclude trial/travel 09/30/12 P&G Insert (exp 10/31/12)
$1/1 Febreze Air Effects, exclude trial/travel 09/30/12 P&G Insert (exp 10/31/12)

Final price: .79 after doubled coupon

Lysol Household Cleaners - $2.50

$0.50/1 Lysol Disinfectant Spray, 12 oz+ 08/08/11 Lysol (exp 12/31/50)
$0.50/2 Lysol Disinfectant Wipes 10/14/12 SS Insert (exp 11/06/12)
$0.50/1 Lysol Disinfectant Spray 10/14/12 SS Insert (exp 11/06/12)

Final price: as low as $1.50 after doubled coupon

Bounty Napkins - $2.99

$0.25/1 Bounty Napkins, exclude trial/travel 09/30/12 P&G Insert (exp 10/31/12)
$0.25/1 Bounty, towels or napkins 10/14/12 P&G Insert (exp 11/30/12)

Final price: $2.49 after doubled coupon

Bounce Dryer Sheets 80 ct - $3.99

$0.50/1 Bounce, exclude trial/travel 09/30/12 P&G Insert (exp 10/31/12)

Final price: $2.99 after doubled coupon

Dear Little Blog

2011-11-08T14:12:00.000-08:00

Dear Little Blog -

I've neglected you. I'm sorry. Life has been so busy, and I apologize! I set out to write daily, to use my hard-earned degrees, to expand my writing horizons. Instead, I neglect and ignore you, much like a potted plant that enters my home. For this, I apologize.

That being said...I'm starting a new series this month. Yeah, I know it's the 8th of November, and a rather arbitrary day in which to start a new series, but stuff like this just happens sometimes. Life happens. And that's what my series is about.

Without going into too much personal detail, I made the decision to start living and cooking on our stockpile. (Mom, if you're reading this, we're FINE....)

Why, you might ask? I know you coupon religiously, you say...

Well, yeah. I do. I coupon a LOT. And why? Well...basically, my stockpile is full to the brim. Money is tight, and one way I can 'find' some extra cash for a few months is to live from the stockpile, and sock that extra cash away. I understand that some folks literally have to live on their stockpile; it is the only way they keep their tables full. I do not want anyone to think that I mean to trivialize this: hunger in America occurs every day, and for this, I am thankful that even in lean times, coupons keep my family clean, fed, warm, and clothed.

My menu plan for the week is as follows:

Breakfasts:

yogurt with granola
pancakes
waffles with fruit
oatmeal
cold cereal
coffee for the Hubster and I

Lunches:

ham sandwiches with cheddar, carrot sticks, dried blueberries
peanut butter sandwiches with apples
mac and cheese with celery sticks
alphabet soup with bread
grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup

Dinners:
cabbage rolls with rice, biscuits
Beer battered fish with french fries, mixed veggies
Baked chicken with stuffing, roasted carrots
Mustard maple baked ham, butternut squash, and green beans
Brats with sauerkraut, pork and beans, carrots and celery sticks
Pizza, salad
spaghetti and meatballs with italian sausage, salad

Snacks:
cheese slices and crackers
bacon grease popcorn (It's my mother in law's recipe...totally divine!)
fresh fruits and veggies
cold cereal
yogurts

Essentially, I'll be going to the grocery store to get anything that is free after coupon, milk, eggs, fresh produce that I have coupons for, and that's it. While this isn't a true "living off of food storage" experience as I get to go to the grocery still, it is a huge reduction in our monthly food budget. I'm looking forward to free frozen veggies starting this upcoming Saturday, as well as inexpensive produce that I have $1.50 off your next order coupons. I'll detail more of the budget and how I am going to accomplish this later tonight after Hubs gets home and we set a solid number of what we want the budget to be.

Chinese Laundry shoes Groupon Deal

2011-08-30T09:29:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't love shoes? I know I do...but being a size 6 sometimes makes it difficult to find cute, reasonably priced shoes in my size.

Not today! For $24, you get a really great Groupon for $50 to the Chinese Laundry brand's website to order shoes online. This is a NATIONAL deal, so you can take advantage of it anywhere. Shipping is reasonably priced, but if you do order more than $100 in products, you get free shipping. Inexpensive, good quality shoes, and free shipping...what's not to love!?

Go, run, get one! There's tons of great sale shoes!

Kids' magazine Groupon deal!

2011-08-27T21:03:00.000-07:00

This is waaaay too good of a deal to not share with you...I LOVE Zoobooks, Zootles, and Zoobies magazines. They're a really great way to share reading with your child, while teaching them about animals, nature, etc.

For only $15, you can pick a subscription to one of the three magazines - they're each targeted toward certain age groups, Zoobies; with lift the flaps pages for the 2 and under crowd, bedtime stories, pictures, and activities for the 2-6 age group in Zootles, and articles, bright colored pictures, crosswords, and more activities for the 6-12 set.

I have to be honest; I'm only 29, but I remember LOVING Zoobooks as a kid. And I'm super excited now that there is a magazine created for each of my kids!! I'm ordering one of each; they'll be nice to look at during quiet times, in the car, or to take to Grandma's when we visit. And what child doesn't adore animals?

Please note: if you click through my link, I get a referral credit at Groupon.

Beachbody's Commit to Get Fit contest!

2011-08-01T18:10:00.000-07:00

I won't make it a secret; I'm a Beachbody Coach. I joined because I loved working out to P90x, but had let working out go by the wayside over the past winter and gained a bit of weight and lost all that hard work I had put into my workouts. I rediscovered P90x, but this time around, I'm doing Turbofire featuring Chalene Johnson. I really enjoy going to Zumba class, but with Aaron's work schedule, that is not always possible. Turbofire is very similar to Zumba in that it features routines, awesome music, and a killer calorie burn - think upwards of 650 calories per workout!

That being said, I like to log my workouts in the WOWY Supergym at Team Beachbody. They encourage you to join the community for support, accountability, and the chance to win prizes - Team Beachbody gives away all sorts of fun prizes daily, like Ipods, cash, and more. Why wouldn't I log my workouts!? I noticed tonight though, that the Commit to Get Fit challenge started: it increases the amount of the prizes available to be won everyday. And honestly, it provides great impetus for me to keep Pushing Play and keep myself healthy.

If you want to try and lose a few, while possibly winning cash or more, check out my Team Beachbody site, www.andreacummings.com for more info on it.

Things Mama Loves

2011-07-22T21:32:00.000-07:00

I'll admit it...I love Amazon.com. Why?

I live in a rural area. At least, my village is classified as rural: there are only 4800 of us, village and outlying township, combined. We live thirty minutes from the nearest mall, and an hour from downtown Milwaukee. Granted, that isn't far compared to some parts of the country. But when you factor in having to load my two darlings, their sippy cups, their diaper bag, snacks, the pillow pets, the singamajigs, army guys, and all their other gear into the car, the hour long drive becomes almost a two hour adventure, one way.

As a weekly feature, I'll be sharing the items that I'm loving at present. Some of them, I've owned for a while. Some, I discovered thanks to another mom-blogger and want to pass the good word on. And some of them...I want to share because they're just awesome. Enjoy!

The first is the Bissell Lift off vaccuum. I don't have pets. I don't need them; I have kids. I also own a condo that has the main living areas on the second floor, and in the basement rec room. I'm only 5'1. I like to work out (I'm a Beachbody coach...ask me sometime!), but lugging a vaccuum up two flights of stairs isn't my idea of a workout. This vaccuum solves that issue. And hey, it empties easily, and filters are cheap. Rock on!



Okay, I've linked to this one before. I own it on an e-reader, and I have to admit that I'm falling in love with Liana Krissoff. No goofy tasty pickles; in this book, and no random jams made of a fruit that hasn't been cultivated in twenty years. She groups her recipes by season, which is very nice for the novice canner, but also for those of us who lack imagination. I especially love her Green Apple Pectin recipe; why buy boxed pectin, and use all that extra refined sugar, when instead you can use green apples for pectin, and make spreads, fillings, and other preserves that are healthy for you? Check it out today.


                    The Tudors. My most recent obsession. It's been hot, too hot to play outside. I need something beyond Jerseylicious (sorry, Olivia!) to stimulate my mind. While this isn't the most historically accurate portrayal of Henry the Eighth (I am...I am...), it's incredibly lush. The CGI isn't the greatest, but the acting is superb, and the costuming is gorgeous. Just don't watch it if you're susceptible to the power of suggestion; I find I drink more wine when I watch!

Be who you are...

2011-07-18T21:20:00.000-07:00

Apple Butter and Monday Morning

2011-07-18T21:10:00.000-07:00

I'm not a morning person. There, I said it. I don't like the mornings.

I don't get up early; and my kids don't either. Being a stay at home mom allows me the latitude to sleep in past the time most other moms (at home or the working moms) tend to be up with their kids. Granted, the Preschooler and the Toddler do share a room, but if one wakes up, eventually, the other does as well. One really great perk is that they snuggle and play together in the morning, and instead of waking up to an alarm clock's horrible and incessant beeping, I wake up to hear my kids singing, giggling, saying I love you, and playing. Occasionally, I wake up to someone hollering because she's dirtied her diaper a bit earlier than scheduled, but that's quite all right.

Either way, all those mom blogs out there have writers who get up at 4 to 5 am, do their Bible devotional, workout, make fresh muffins for their family, shower, put a full face of makeup on, and are perfectly pressed and ready to go by the time their family is awake so that they can start another perfect, sunshiny day of homeschooling. Not me. I drop my Preschooler of at class two times a week in yoga pants (or, in the winter, my brightly colored flannel snowflake pajama bottoms). I get out of bed and one eye doesn't focus for a good hour after I've inserted my contacts, and Heaven help the child who crosses me before I've had at least one cup of coffee or a Shakeology (chocolate, please). Preferably, I've consumed both. It's better for all of mankind that I have coffee every morning. I'm lucky if I've worked out, cleaned my house, and gotten a shower before noon. Chances are, I take care of that during nap, provided the kids cooperate.

Hmm...that sounds a bit angsty on my part here. I don't mean it to be, but I want to be real. I'm sitting on my couch now, drinking a workout recovery drink at 11 pm at night, watching yet another rerun, still in my workout clothes. Sure, I finished an hour ago, but the couch was comfortable and I'm just going to bed anyway. Why be someone I'm not?

I could, for example, give up canning, and just buy my jelly, jam, and butters at the store. But storebought preserves just have this taste I can't abide anymore; artificial sugar is just so offputting to me now that I've been trying to focus on cleaner eating. Sure, I'll still eat Kraft Mac and Cheese. I love Velveeta, and I can wax poetic about salsa and chips. But a few more salads a week and a few more pieces of fruit each day never hurts anyone.

Which, as I digressed, is why I can. I know what is in my jam (or jelly, or preserve, or chutney, or butter...) jar. In the case of the apple butter I made? Apples. Sugar. Water. That's it. That's all the recipe called for, besides the spices cinnamon, allspice, and clove. After about 15 hours of simmering, my apple butter was sheer perfection. I won't lie, I'm pretty proud of the result. I was a bit concerned at first due to the fact that I added way too much water. But it reduced down very nicely, and I couldn't stop taking tastes to try it out. Knowing what is in it makes me feel better when I spread it on my toast in the morning, or mix it in to unflavored oatmeal for the kids. No artificial anything. Just amazing, apple goodness, fresh from a local orchard.

Here's the recipe I used (my own):

6 pounds of Granny Smith apples. (I like Granny Smith's tartness - it's a great foil to the sugar and spice)

2 cups of water

1.5 cups of sugar (more or less to taste)

1 Tbsp cinnamon
1Tsp clove
1 Tsp Allspice

Peel and core your apples. Put in a pot with 2 cups of water that is already boiling. Recover and watch the pot for boil-overs; I turned my stove to medium high here and it was a perfect setting. Once apples are soft and gently exploding, remove pot from heat, and get an immersion blender in there. Blend the apples thoroughly; mixture maybe very liquidy. That's okay.

Add liquid to a large slow cooker. Gently stir in sugar and spices. Turn slow cooker on to 10 or 12 hour setting, grab a wooden spoon or some of those extra wooden chopsticks, use them to slightly vent the lid (I set two on the inside rim of my cooker and just set the lid on top). Walk away. Leave it alone. For at least 2-3 hours. If you're like me, you're asleep 2-3 hours later, so no worries about stirring. If you happen to do this during the day and you can stir, just give the mixture a quick stir every few hours. Once the mixture has reduced to roughly half of it's original volume (for me, this was about 15-16 hours), and takes on a thick texture, it is ready to can and process.

Once your boiling water canner is ready, put butter in jars, cover, and process for 20 minutes. Remove to a towel to cool and finish sealing. Listen for the "ping-pop" of the jars closing. Any jars that do not seal need to be refrigerated immediately. Otherwise, enjoy your Fall in a Jar!

Sometimes I say I'll go to bed Early...

2011-07-18T20:49:00.000-07:00

But then, I do not. Sure, I'll bemoan the fact that I'm pooped the next day, and whine to myself about how I should've gone to bed sooner, but I can't help it...I'm easily distracted! Usually, I can blame my kids for that distraction; someone needs a boo-boo kissed, someone's picking on her brother, someone wants playdough/a snack/a nuk/a cup of juice/a hug NOW, and I gladly welcome those distractions. I wouldn't trade them for the world. But at 9:30 p.m., I'm most vulnerable to those 'other' distractions; sometimes, it's a show I've been waiting to see, usually it is a book, sometimes it is a long running baseball game on tv, and most often...food is involved as a major distractor.

Tonight's problem? I had six pounds of granny smith apples from a nearby farm just waiting to be used in my produce drawer. I'd made a pie crust a few days ago, but I just haven't felt in the 'pie' spirit. I don't particularly care for an all Granny Smith apple pie, and the only other produce we had in the house, save the frozen items, was some rhubarb, some lettuce, and carrots. Not an appetizing dessert pie, not in the slightest. So, I let the apples sit. And sit. And sit. I kept shooing the kids away from them because, "Mama's going to make something with them...", and after the Preschooler countered that statement with, "What are you going to make, Mama? You keep saying that...", I decided it was time to make something, anything out of them. After reading a new canning cookbook tonight, I figured out just what that something is: apple butter!

Nerd alert: I love to can. But canning is cool! It isn't some archaic pastime that hermits and old ladies partake in. Canning and preserving your own food is an awesome way to take control of your family's diet. In our home, we try to avoid MSG as much as possible (okay, I do...the rest of them, they're on their own if they choose to consume the stuff). You can control the amount of sugar and salt that goes into your food. You can pick your own strawberries, apples, oranges, vegetables, etc., to turn into jams, jellies, butters, chutneys, pickles, and more. You can even make wine jelly. Trust me...I've done it, and it was amazing.

But, I wax poetic. I tend to do that in regards to food. Back to the topic at hand...apple butter.

I love apple butter. It is just so, well, quintessentially Wisconsin. We do tend to like our apples here, and since many of us have a glut of them arrive on our doorstep in mid summer to late autumn, those of us 'food preservationists' rejoice at the bounty of apples to turn into apple sauce, cinnamon apple rings, apple pie filling, and apple butter. I can't imagine not having it in my home at any one given moment. Not to mention, my husband attended Gettysburg college and fell in love with apple butter in Pennsylvania, thanks to the large Pennsylvania Dutch influence on food out in that part of the country.

Tonight, I tried a new recipe: instead of boiling the apples, mashing them by hand, and then stirring, and stirring, and stirring, and stirring...well, you get the point. That old way to make apple butter is ridiculous. I have two children under the age of 4, and I'd like to go to bed before 2 a.m, since I was silly and started this project at 9:30 at night. In reading the book, the author, Liana Krissoff, suggests a few tweaks to the old methodology: use an immersion blender to mash the apples (why didn't I think of that!?) and to slow cook the apple puree so that it takes on the butter-like consistency without the risk of burning in a pot on the stove, or worse, wasting precious time stirring a pot when you'd rather be playing with the kids. Or in my case, sleeping.

Mama's Bookbag

2011-07-11T21:39:00.000-07:00

I hope you come to read knowing that I love books. If the blog name doesn't give it away, or the library book header, well...you'll catch on soon enough.

We love books in this house. The Preschooler has discovered the Tag Junior book pal reader and early phonics; he's spending more and more time with a book and that little gadget on his own, perusing books, getting lost in worlds beyond, and then relating them to me in the evening while I make dinner. Nevermind that he's speaking so quickly that I don't always catch everything that happened in Preschool Imagination-land. :)

My husband and I are both readers; always have been, always will be. Recently, I cleaned out and reorganized our basement crawl spaces (yes, we have two...lucky me. Double the spiders.Yay.), and counted the books we have between just the two of us. I came up with seven-hundred and fifty books, give or take a few dozen as I was in the basement and in no mood to climb, dust-covered and full of dead spiders, up two flights of stairs, to our bedroom. That doesn't include the kids' books. Suffice it to say; we have a lot of books.

But, being the good librarian I am, I will never, ever stop using my local library. My taxes help fund it; and it is a center of knowledge. I can get so much more there than just books; I can locate ancestors, put my head together with another information professional on how to do this, that or the next thing, I can plan a vacation, attend childrens' programs, or even sign my husband up for a program to get him out of the house and out of my hair for a night when he's stir crazy in the middle of winter. We always find great materials, every time we go.

Today, we came home with a sack of books that I think weighs more than both of my children do, combined. A new favorite of both kids is a Rosemary Wells book entitled, Ruby's Rainy Day. I absolutely adore Max and Ruby (seriously, I don't know of many other childrens' characters that are cute AND non-irritating. I'm looking at you, Calliou.), and this book is no different. It is a short little board book, perfect for a wiggly Toddler who loves books but can't stay in her Mama's lap for more than ten pages right now, and offers material for a Preschooler who is starting to reason out the whys and wherefores of book plots. This book was no different: the Preschooler has been learning all about helping his sister (he's got the 'helping' in general thing down, but now he's also turning into a big brother - good and bad!), and it fostered a nice little discussion about why we help our brothers and sisters.

Not to mention, I found it hidden under his bed when I just went to check on him. I think it's a winner. :)

More on what I'm reading tomorrow!

Life, simplified

2011-07-11T19:40:00.000-07:00

Today marked a turning point in my life.

No, I didn't get married.

Nope, no babies were born, either.

Nothing overly exciting, thrilling, or even groundbreaking occurred. Absolutely, positively nothing interesting happened.

Unless you were me.

I went to the library with my kids. We played. We looked for books. We had our reading logs signed, picked our prizes (another maraca for the Toddler, and a Hello Kitty calendar for the Preschooler, as well as free ice cream coupons to the stand here in town). I paid our library fines, we got hand stamps, we checked our books out, and we went home.

Pretty prosaic, huh? You know you're thinking that. And that's okay.

But here I am...admitting something to that Great Void out there - is anyone listening even? Going to the library a year ago would have resulted in temper tantrums, freak outs, and tears. And I'm just talking about ME. Going places the last few years with two young children in tow hasn't been the easiest. Lest you judge or say something to the effect of, "Well, I have FOUR kids, and it's just fine for me" or something to that extent, I'll explain.

I suffer from depression. Mind-bendingly numbing, horribly debilitating depression. And just for good measure? Add a side of clinical anxiety to that. Sounds fun, hey?

At first, I tried to get through it on my own; I was being cyberbullied, but because I'm almost 30, no one believed that I was being bullied, save a few people who knew what was going on. Then, I blamed the fact that my hormones were out of whack; didn't I just have a baby six months ago? That HAD to be it. Then it was that I had too much on my plate with graduate school, a part time gig, plus my own home and the kids. Not to mention, I was trying to be the best darn wife possible. Even if my husband was working sixty plus hour work weeks. And get through that whole cyber bully thing? That had to be it.

Right?

RIGHT!?

Nope. It wasn't.

Not even close. Not at all.

Finally, I spoke with my doctor. And after months of tears, screaming red faced anger, time on my knees in prayer, prostrate in the Nave at Church, begging Christ and his Holy Mother to help me, and fits of debilitating anxiety, I had a fix. A little, round, white fix. It took me two whole weeks to swallow that first pill.

And for the last year, roughly, I haven't looked back.

While I certainly do not advocate medication as the first resort for someone suffering from depression and anxiety, I do advocate speaking with your doctor. Try talk therapy first; I did, but it only made a dent in what I was feeling. I've found a happy medium for me: that little round white pill, talk therapy, and regular workouts keep me happy. I'm hoping to wean off of the medicine within the next year, but if I'm not advised to, then I won't.

And this is why today was such a big deal for me. I enjoyed my kids. I enjoyed my life. And even though there were temper tantrums (not mine...not this time. Talk to the Toddler about that!), even though it was hot outside, and even though things didn't go the way I thought they should go today....I realized something.

Things just went the way they did. And I'm cool with that.

Aldi Deals June 29th - June 5th

2011-06-26T19:23:00.000-07:00

Here are the best deals I can see at Aldi this upcoming week. Remember, prices may vary by region and store!

Produce

Cantaloupe - $.99 each
Strawberries - $.99 per 1 pound package
Blueberries - $1.29 a pint
Sweet corn - $1.29 per 4-pack (this is an AWESOME price!)

Refrigerated goods

Benner Iced Tea or Fruit Punch - $.99
Nature's Nectar All Natural Lemonade - $1.89

Pantry/ Dry goods

Dakota's Pride Baked Beans - $1.19
Great Gherkins - $1.49
PurAqua bottle water - $2.49 for 24 bottles

Frozen/Meat

All Natural 75/25 Ground beef patties - 3lbs. $5.99 (this is a great price for grilling items - you don't want meat that's too lean as it will dry out while you grill!)
Pork Spare ribs - $2.29 a pound
Roseland Italian Sausage - $2.99
Kirkland Chicken Breasts - $5.49 for a 48 oz bag

30% off Adult clothing at Old Navy! Today Only!

2011-02-07T08:32:00.000-08:00

This is super hot! If you like Old Navy clothing, today only, you can get 30% off any adult purchase. Plus, if you spend $50 or more, you get free shipping. And to sweeten the deal, Ebates is offering 2% back on your purchases.

This offer isn't valid on maternity, kids, or baby purchases.

Menu for February 6th through the 12th

2011-02-06T21:30:00.000-08:00

Happy Sunday, everyone!

First, I want to congratulate the Packers on their Superbowl victory - it was a great game, and even though I really don't understand footbal, it was fun watching my state's team with the championship. Great job, guys!

That being said, we had a great Superbowl party with friends, replete with many of the foods that most folks look forward to at get-togethers. But...it left my fridge FULL of leftovers. So full, in fact, some got wrapped up and put in the freezer for another day. And some, well, they're wrapped up and hanging out in our garage on a shelf - living in Wisconsin DOES have its perks: you have a really nice fridge/freezer combo about five months out of the year!

The menu for this week is as follows, but as always, is subject to change.

Breakfasts

oatmeal
cold cereal
oatmeal pancakes
eggs and fruit
yogurt and granola

Lunches
peanut butter and jelly with fruit
sandwich wraps (hummus, lunch meat, lettuce, tomato, cheese)
homemade chicken nuggets with raw veggies
pizza with salad
grilled cheese

Dinners
leftover chicken and swiss casserole
Spaghetti with meatballs, Italian green beans, and Italian bread
Meatloaf with mashed potatoes, roasted carrots, and apple slices
Turkey stir fry with white rice and fruit on the side
Pizza with salad

Desserts
cheesecake (I make my own, every once and a while...)
pudding
jello
peanut butter blossom cookies
Rice krispie squares
Chocolate chip cookies

I'm sticking to a simple, easy-peasy menu this week - we've got a busy week ahead of us since we'll all have to play catch up after last week's blizzard (or Snowmageddon, Snowmygosh, or Snowpocalypse...whatever you wish to call it!), and also because the Hubster works the later shift at his office, so he won't be home till 6:15 or so. The Preschooler and the Toddler don't really appreciate culinarily adventurous foods sometimes, so I'll keep it super simple.

What are you making?

Copps/Pick N Save deals for the week of February 6th - 12th

2011-02-06T21:13:00.000-08:00

Here are the best sales and match ups found in the current Pick N Save/Copps/Rainbow ad. If you are in the Southeastern Wisconsin district, your sales run Thursday through Wednesday. Thanks to Karen for help in compiling these!

Meal Deal:
Buy One USDA Choice Black Angus Beef Boneless Chuck Roast 3.5lbs or more 2.99 lb
Get 1 Free Roundy’s Russet Potatoes 5 lb bag
Get 1 Free Roundy’s Carrots 1 lb bag
Get 1 Free Celery
HORMEL Deal – Buy $20 on Hormel Foods, Get $5 coupon printed at the end of your receipt.
*Hormel Chili with Beans 15 oz $1.25 (reg price $1.69)
-$1.50/3 coupon from Feb All You
Final price: .75 each
*Hormel No Beans Chili 15 oz $1.79
-$1.50/3 coupon from Feb All You
Final price: $1.29
*Hormel Mary Kitchen Hash 15 oz $2.00 (reg price $2.49)
-$1.50/3 coupon from Feb All You
Final price: $1.50 each
*Spam Luncheon Meat 12 oz $2.50
-$1.50/3 coupon from Feb All You
Final price: $2.00 each
*Dinty Moore Beef Stew 24 oz $2.50 (reg price $2.99)
-$1.50/3 coupon from Feb All You
Final price: $2.00 each
*Hormel Premium Chicken Breast in Water 12.5 oz $3.00
-$1.50/3 coupon from Feb All You
Final price: $2.50 each
PRODUCE
*Gala, Cameo or Fuji Apples $1.29 lb
*Asparagus $1.39 lb
*Whole or sliced Baby Bella Mushrooms 8 oz $2.29
*Blueberries pint $2.50
*Navel Oranges 8 lb bag $4.99

MEAT
*Ball Park Franks $2.50
-.75/2 coupon from 1/23 RP
Final price if doubled: $1.75 each
*Buy One Pkg Fresh 75% Lean Ground Beef sold in 5 lb pks $1.88 lb
Get 1 Free Pkg Roundy’s Hamburger Buns 8 ct
*Roundy’s All Natural Whole Cut Up Chicken .98 lb (Limit 1)
*Louis Kemp Imitation Crab Delights 8 oz BOGO (reg price $2.49)
Final price: $1.25
*Oscar Mayer Regular Lunchables $1.50
*Ball Park Franks $2.50
.75/2 coupon from 1/23 RP
Final price if doubled: $1.75 each
*Fresh Pork Spareribs or Boneless Country Style Ribs $2.49 lb
*Jennie-O Turkey & Gravy 32 oz white or white & dark combo $2.88 Limit 1
*Oscar Meyer Sliced or Fully cooked Bacon 2.1-16 oz varieties $3.88 (Limit 1) reg price $6.47
-$1.00/1 with in ad flier coupon (is it a man q?)
Final price: $2.88
*USDA Choice Black Angus Boneless Stew Meat or Chuck Steak $2.99 lb
*Sea Mazz Tilapia Fillets 16 oz frozen BOGO (reg price $6.99)
Final price: $3.50 each
*Hormel Fully Cooked Entrée $4.99
- $1/1 coupon from HERE
Final price if doubled: $2.99
*Klement’s Summer Sausage or Smoked Provolone $3.99 lb
DAIRY
*Land O Lakes Margarine or Buttery Spread $1.00 (reg price $2.45)
-.40/1 coupon from 1/9 SS
-.35/1 and .55/1 coupon from HERE
Final price if doubled: FREE
*Kemp’s Sour Cream $1.00 (reg price $2.59)
-.55/1 Coupon from 1/30 SS
Final price if doubled: FREE
*Coffee-Mate Flavored Creamer $1.66 (reg price $2.49)
-.75/1 or $1.00/3 coupon from HERE
-$1.00/1 coupon from HERE (facebook) , HERE
-$1.00/2 coupon from 1/30 RP, Dec All You
Final price if doubled: as low as FREE
*Dannon DanActive or Activia Yogurt $2.00 (reg price $2.99)
-$1.00/1 coupon from 1/9 SS, 1/30 SS
Final price if doubled: FREE
*Heluva Good Dips $1.50
-.75/1 coupon from 1/23 SS (says Do Not Double)
Final price IF you can double: FREE
*Philadelphia Cooking Crème $2.00 (reg price $2.99)
-$1.00/1 Cooking Creme and 1 Oscar Mayer Carving Board Meat in ad man q
$1.50/1 coupon from HERE, HERE
Final price: as low as .50
*Nestle Refrigerated Cookie Dough $2.50 (reg price $3.59)
-$1.00/1 coupon from 1/30 RP, HERE
Final price if doubled: .50
*Blue Diamond Almond Breeze 32 oz $2.00 (reg price $3.09)
-.55/1 coupon from HERE
-.50/1 coupon from HERE
Final price if doubled: as low as .90
*Dannon Yogurt Light & Fit 4 pk $2.00 (reg price $2.99)
-$1.00/2 coupon from 1/30 SS
Final price if doubled: $1.00 each
*Buitoni Pasta or Sauce $3.00 (reg price $4.09)
-$1.00/1 coupon from 1/2 SS
Final price if doubled: $1.00
*Frigo String Cheese $3.00
-.55/1 coupon from HERE
-$1/1 coupon from 1/30 SS, HERE, HERE
Final price if doubled: $1.00
*Kozy Shack Pudding BOGO (reg price $3.19)
-.55/1 coupon from HERE
Final price if 1 coupon doubled: $1.10 each
*Yoplait Trix Yogurt 6 pk $2.00 (reg price $2.89)
-.75/2 coupon from 1/2 GM, 1/30 SS, HERE, HERE
Final price if doubled: $1.25 each
*Crystal Farm Shredded or Chunk Cheese $1.88 w/ in ad coupon (reg price $3.29) LImit 2
FROZEN
*Westpac Premium or Quick N Easy Vegetables 16 oz $1.25
-.35/1 coupon from 12/5 SS
Final price if doubled: .55
*McCain Potatoes 16-26 oz $2.50 (reg price $2.99)
-.75/1 coupon from HERE
Final price if doubled: $1.00
*Smart Ones Meals or Desserts $1.88 w/ in ad coupon (Limit 5) reg price $3.59
- $1.00/5 coupon from HERE
- $3.00/5 in ad manufacturer coupon (flyer in store)
Final price: as low as $1.48
*Jacks Naturally Rising Pizza 16-30.5 oz $3.33 (reg price $5.99)
-$1.00/3 coupon from 1/30 RP
Final price if doubled: $2.67
*Jennie O Turkey & Gravy in Roasting Pan White & Dark Combo Frozen 2 lb $2.88 (reg price $4.39) Limit 1
*Sara Lee Cheescake $5.00
-.75/1 coupon from 2/6 RP
Final price if doubled: $3.50
GROCERY
*Kellogg’s Cereal, Bars, Fruit Snacks, Pop-tarts, Eggo Syrup, Sunshine Cheeze -it crackers or Keebler Cookies or Crackers $1.88 each when you buy 8 (Limit
- Various Kellogg’s coupons HERE
-$1.00/2 Kelloggs Special K Bars or Cereal coupon from 1/2 RP
-.75/2 Kellogg’s Special K cereal Bars coupon from 2/6 RP
-$1.00/3 coupon from 1/9 RP
-$1.00/2 Keebler cracker coupon from 12/12 RP, 1/30 RP
-$1.00/2 Sunshine Cheez It Crackers coupon from 1/30 RP
-$1.00/1 Kelloggs Crunchy Nut Cereal 10.8 oz or larger 1/23 RP
-$1.00/1 Smart Start coupon from 2/6 RP (if included)
-$1.00/2 All Bran, Raisin Bran, Mini Wheats, Fiber Plus coupon 2/6 RP
-$1.00/2 Poptarts coupon from 2/6 RP
Final price if doubled: as low as FREE
*Lay’s Kelltle Cooked Potato Chips, Tostitos Chips or Dip $2.88 (reg price $3.99)
-.55/1 Tostito’s coupon from 1/30 SS
Final price if doubled: $1.78
*Dove Valentines Chocolate Candy 8.5-9.5 oz $3.00 (reg price $4.69)
-$1.00/2 coupon from 1/30 RP
Final price if doubled: $2.00 each
*Russell Stover Boxed Chocolates 8.25-12 oz BOGO Free (reg price $8.99)
-$1.00/1 coupon from 12/12 SS
Final price if 1 coupon doubled: $3.50 each
*Starbucks Double Shot Coffee or Frappuccino 4 pk $6.49
-$2 on Floral wyb 2 Starbucks 4 pks (Instantly at Register)-
-$1.00/1 coupon from 2/6 SS
Final price if doubled: $4.49
*Folgers Coffee 22.6 – 34.5 oz $6.99 (reg price $11.09)
-.25/1 coupon from 2/6 RP
-.55/1 coupon from Dec All You
Final price if doubled: $5.89
HEALTH N BEAUTY
*Ludens Throat Drops 30 ct .99 (reg price $1.59)
-.55/1 coupon from 12/12 SS, 1/30 SS
Final price if doubled: FREE
*Colgate Premium Toothpaste 4-6 oz $2.49
-$1.00/1 Coupon from Jan All You
-.75/1 coupon from 1/30 SS
Final price if doubled: as low as .49
*Garnier Fructis Shampoo, Conditioner or Styling Products 25% off (reg price $3.59)
-$1.00/1 coupon from HERE, 2/6 RP
Final price if doubled: .69
*Nivea Lip Care .17-.35 oz .99 (reg price $1.69)
-BOGO coupon from 2/6 RP
Final price: .50 each
*Axe Invisible Solid Deodorant 2.7-3 oz $3.50
-B3G1 Detailer free w/ in ad manufacturer coupon
-BOGO coupon from 1/30 RP
Final price: $1.75 each
**Your store will more than likely not accept both coupons)
*Tums Antacid 24-150 ct $3.50 (reg price $5.19)
-$1.00/1 coupon from HERE
Final price if doubled: $1.50
*Alka Seltzer Plus, Liqui Gels or Fast Crystals 10-20 ct $3.98 (reg price $5.39)
-$2.00/1 coupon from 1/2 SS
-$1.00/1 coupon from 1/30 SS
Final price if doubled or not: $1.98
*Axe Body Spray 4 oz. $4.00 (reg price $4.59)
-B3G1 Detailer free w/ in ad manufacturer coupon
-BOGO coupon from 1/30 RP
Final price: $2.00 each
**Your store will more than likely not accept both coupons)
*Kotex Pads 14-24 ct $2.50 (reg price $3.29)
-$2.00/2 coupon from
Final price: $1.50 each
*Disney Childrens Vitamins 60 ct BOGO Free (reg price $7.99)
-$1.00/1 coupon from 1/23 RP
Final price if 1 coupon doubled: $3.00 each
HOUSEHOLD
*Arm & Hammer Liquid Laundry Detergent 55-68.75 oz $3.99 (reg price $7.99)
-$1.00/2 coupon from HERE
Final price if doubled: $2.99 each
*Cottonelle Bath Tissue 12 double roll $6.49 (reg price $25)
($3 on floral on your next visit wyb 2 Cottonelle or Viva (Prints at Register)
-.50/1 coupon from 1/23 SS
Final price if doubled: $5.49
*Scott Bath Tissue 12 roll $8.49 (reg price $10.99)
-$1.00/1 coupon from 1/16 SS
Final price if doubled: $6.49
PET
Tidy Cats Scoop Cat Litter 20 lb $5.99 (reg price $7.81)
-$1.00/1 coupon from 1/30 RP
Final price if doubled: $3.99
ONGOING DEALS
*Reach Dental Floss $1.79
Use $1.00/1 coupon from 10/10 RP (exp 4/30/11)
Final price if doubled: FREE
*Friskies Cat Treats $1.57
-$1.00/1 coupon from1/23 SS (exp 4/24/11)
Final price if doubled: FREE
*Tomcat Mousetraps .99
-.55/1 coupon from 11/7 SS (exp 2/28/11)
Final price if doubled: FREE
*Tidy Cat Litter $2.09
- $1.00/1 coupon from HERE
Final price if doubled: .09
*Duncan Hines Amazing Glazes dessert topping $2.19
-$1.00/1 coupon from1/16 SS
Final price if doubled: .19
*Rhodes Rolls $2.59 (increase price)
-$1.00/1 coupon from 11/14 RP (exp 2/28), 12/12 RP (exp 3/31), 1/23 RP (exp 4/30), 2/6 RP (exp 5/31/11)
Final price if doubled: .59
*Celestial Seasonings Tea $2.79
-$1.00/1 coupon from 12/12 SS (exp 3/12/11),
Final price if doubled: .79

Read more:

A post in which I encourage your child to read...

2010-09-20T15:48:00.000-07:00

I admit it....I love books (what librarian/information science professional doesn't?). My husband loves books too. And our 3 year old is discovering how fun playing pretend, imagining, etc are when we have a book to read. He's getting to the point where he "reads" books to us, and I love what he comes up with.

This is where I'll admit I also love technology. :)

I decided this week to get him a Tag Junior reader. But *gulp*...the books aren't cheap! Being the coupon nerd I am, I thought, "I'll wait on this, and look to see if I can find a few coupons on coupons.com or somewhere on the net. There HAVE to be some..." And there are. But there's also something better than cheap with a coupon....

FREE!! So go sign up for a free Tag Jr or Tag book from Leapfrog. Let's encourage our kids to read...both with us, as well as on their own!

Coupons.com

2010-09-20T15:43:00.000-07:00

If you're visiting this site, you're probably because you're a couponer like me. And if you're a couponer like me, you use printable coupons.

So guess what!? There are new coupons on Coupons.com today! Plus, if you click on "personal care", you'll find a $10 rebate on a $30 or more purchase on Johnson and Johnson products! Wahoo! I needed babywash since my 3 year old decided he was going to wash himself one night..... ;)

If you want to get there quicker, just click the coupons.com ad on the side of my blog and it will take you right there! Happy couponing!