Penny Pinching Penguin

Thin Soup - Things are Changing

2010-09-06T20:30:00.002-04:00

Ok - I'm really writing this post.

I have been thinking and praying about this decision for weeks.

I am at peace and know this is the decision I needed to make.

I will no longer be posting on Penny Pinching Penguin.

Well, mostly stop.

I may post occasionally. I am not ready to say it's completely over. I will link to past articles through Rediscovering Domesticity.

I will continue the Bloggy Basics and Money Minute on Rediscovering Domesticity.

Why?

I need to focus on my family more. I've been feeling like thin soup. Now that I have 2 little ones, I hardly have time to plan a good bargain shopping trip let alone stay up on all the hot deals. My heart just isn't in shopping anymore (it is so hard doing multiple stores in one day with carseats and naptimes). I am trying to pinch pennies in other ways and will explore those on Rediscovering Domesticity.

I had mentioned about writing an ebook about saving money in every room of the house. Many of you have submitted ideas for the book. It will still happen! I will offer it free on Rediscovering Domesticity when it is finished.

Thank you all for coming along side me while I learned how to save money and while I learned how this whole blogging thing worked! Come on over to Rediscovering Domesticity. Check it out.

Happy Labor Day!

Scripture Sunday - A Few Drops of Proverbs

2010-09-05T21:35:00.000-04:00

photo credit mine

The Proverbs are FULL of wisdom including wisdom about money. Take some time and chew on these scriptures. Pray that the Lord open your heart as you read.

Proverbs 6:6-8
Go to the ant, sluggard; consider her ways and be wise; who having no guide, overseer, or ruler, provides her food in the summer and gathers her food in the harvest.
Proverbs 21:5
The thoughts of the diligent tend only to plenty; but the thoughts of everyone who is hasty only to poverty.
Proverbs 22:3
A prudent one foresees the evil and hides himself, but the simple pass on and are punished.
Proverbs 24:3-4
Through wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; and by knowledge the rooms shall be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.

September FREE Photo Books

2010-09-04T09:46:00.000-04:00

It's time to make your free photo books for September through HotPrints! Just pay shipping. Get up to FOUR free books per month.

How does this work? Sponsors pay for the books through advertising. There is one page in the center of the book with advertising. This page can easily be pulled out without damaging the rest of the book. All you pay is shipping. Make one book and sent to multiple friends/relatives. Make 4 different books to catalog the kids' growth.

I've gotten these books before. This is a decent way to get pictures actually in albums. These are softcover books that are 81/2 x 11" -ish. You can choose themes and captions for your pictures. In my opinion, these are worth the small shipping cost and can make great grandparent gifts or stocking stuffers.

Bloggy Basics - Design Your Own Button in 5 Simple Steps

2010-08-31T15:35:00.002-04:00

QUICK UPDATE: I am no longer publishing to this blog, however, the Bloggy Basics series can be found at my other blog, Rediscovering Domesticity!

Have you seen the little square "buttons" for your favorite blogs? Have you wondered how to get one yourself? I'm here to help!

You can contact bloggers who do blog design to create a button for you. It's not all that expensive - anywhere from $5 - $20 for a button.

You also can just create your own.

I made the buttons and headers for PennyPinchingPenguin and RediscoveringDomesticity. I made the button for Bloggy Basics. It's pretty easy!

Here's how.

Choose Your Image. Your button is one part of "branding" for your blog. If you hope to grow your blog into a business, branding is important. You want something memorable. Something recognizable. I chose part of a free stock photograph/graphic from stockxchange.com for this blog. I chose a photograph of my own for my other blog. You probably will not be able to use the entire image. Most buttons are scaled to 125 x 125 pixels.
Edit Your Image. You can use a variety of programs to edit your picture. I used Photobucket for all of my images. I just started using Picasa and Picnik to edit photos. Remember to resize your images to the desired size (I recommend 125 x 125). Add effects. Add text. Be creative. You will want to save images as new files since most likely you will need to make changes. Unlike documents, once you add text and alter photos, it is very difficult and sometimes impossible to revert to the original image. I had to re-do all of mine a few times to get them right. Take your time. Play around. Be creative. Have fun.
Add to Image Hosting. I love hosting my images through Photobucket. Once the photo is uploaded, double check the image. Edit as needed. Save. In Photobucket, each image is given several options for sharing. If you just want to use the image and not create a button with a link, you can simply use the html code. You will need the direct link to create the linkable button.
Write Your Code. You will need to enter some information into the code skeleton below. The sections in red will need to changed to your information.
Add to your blog. Final step! If you are using Blogger, go to your Design or Layout tab. Click to Add a Gadget. Choose the HTML gadget. Type the title you would like, if you would like one. Copy the completed code (see instructions below) into the gadget box. Click to Save. On the Design page, drag the gadget you just created to where you would like it on the page. Save. Check out your blog!

This is what the Photobucket sharing options look like:

Code Skeleton:

<a href="Put Your Blog Address Between These Quotes" target="_blank"><img alt="Put Mouse-over Text Between These Quotes" src="Put Your Image Direct Link Between These Quotes" /></a>
The mouse-over feature will show text when someone has their mouse hover over your button.

Here is what my button code looks like:
<a href="http://pennypinchingpenguin.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Pinching Penguin" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae200/penguinelk/1035403_27541235-3.jpg" /></a>

Would you like a "Grab My Button" gadget? It's quite simple now that you have your image! Just change the parts in red with your information and add as an html gadget in your blogger design.

Grab My Button Code Skeleton:
<div align="center"> <a href="Put Your Blog Address Between These Quotes" target="_blank"><img alt="Put Your Mouse-Over Text Between These Quotes" src="Put Your Image Direct Link Between These Quotes" /></a> </div> <div align="center"> <form><textarea rows="6" cols="20"><a href="Put Your Blog Address Between These Quotes" target="_blank"><img alt="Put Your Mouse-Over Text Between These Quotes" src="Put Your Image Direct Link Between These Quotes" /></a></textarea></form> </div>

Here is what my completed code looks like for comparison:

<div align="center"> <a href="http://pennypinchingpenguin.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Pinching Penguin" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae200/penguinelk/1035403_27541235-3.jpg" /></a> </div> <div align="center"> <form><textarea rows="6" cols="20"><a href="http://pennypinchingpenguin.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Penny Pinching Penguin" src="http://i971.photobucket.com/albums/ae200/penguinelk/1035403_27541235-3.jpg" /></a></textarea></form> </div>

Simple! Let me know how it goes - I'll come check it out!

The Grocery Game: Pros and Cons

2010-08-30T00:27:00.000-04:00

Have you ever heard of The Grocery Game? I had heard mention of it, but didn't think it would be of benefit to me. Those on my bargain forums mentioned how they would never spend money when they get the same information through the forums. A few friends mentioned that they used the Grocery Game and loved it.

Well, call me curious.

I had to give it a try. I saw they had a free trial, so I decided to hop on board. I made sure to register under a friend so she'd get credit and potential free weeks. I started playing The Game.

What is it?

The Grocery Game is a paid service to help you save money on groceries at various stores.
A list is issued weekly with the items which are at their rock bottom prices plus the coupon match-ups for those items.
There are many stores with a list - check your area to see what stores are listed for you. I can get Kroger, Rite Aid, Target, CVS, and Giant Eagle.

Why use it?

The list helps you purchase items at their lowest price.
By stocking up at the lowest price, you save hundreds per year.
The hard work is done for you already.

How much does it cost?

The cost for a 1 store membership is $10 every 8 weeks. That works out to about $1.25 per week. A 2 store membership is $15 every 8 weeks, a 3 store membership is $20 every 8 weeks and so on.

So, did I like it? What are the pros and cons?

Pros:

The legwork is done for me
Saves me precious time when hunting deals
Does help to save money
Is a remedy for "mommy brain"
Has a nifty print feature so you can print just the items you intend to purchase
Has a coupon printing links

Cons:

Must sign in to access list - not emailed to me (I actually forgot I had signed up for several weeks)
Is an auto-renew service so you must cancel before the next renew date (more on that later)
Prices are not 100% accurate for every area - my area tends to run $.10 - $.50 higher on just about all items on any list service, not just the Grocery Game.
Costs money
Works best if you have several weeks worth of coupon inserts saved already

Any Problems? Will I keep using it? Do I recommend it?

I made one very deliberate shopping trip using my list. If I hadn't made a mistake (user error!) by not counting my mega sale items accurately, I would have saved close to 75% on that trip by buying just the things on the list (not other essentials). The list works.

I did have a problem. I was using the free trial. I increased my stores to just about all. If it were a paid subscription, it would be $25 per cycle. I marked the end date on my calendar. We lost power. We lost cable. We lost internet. I forgot. I didn't see my reminder and didn't cancel in time. I was charged the $25. When I finally remembered, I emailed Terri to try to get a refund. Refunds are not possible, however, she downgraded my service to just one store and extended my time through December to make up for my mistake. I appreciated her willingness to work with me.

I will keep using the Grocery Game - it's paid through December! I have a few months to find out exactly how much I can save using the game to see if I will pay for another cycle.

As a busy mom, I no longer have the time to scour blogs and forums for every great deal. The Grocery Game puts everything right at my fingertips.

If you would like to try the free 30-day trial, just click here. You will need to enter credit card information. I would greatly appreciate if you enter my email as your referral: penguinelk at yahoo.com (just format it like a normal email address).

Have you used the Grocery Game? What are your thoughts? Let me know in the comments.

I am not an affiliate for the Grocery Game. The opinions in the review are entirely mine. I was not paid in any way to write this post.

Scripture Sunday - Annointing at Bethany

2010-08-29T09:56:00.000-04:00

Mark 14

Jesus Anointed at Bethany

¹Now the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread were only two days away, and the chief priests and the teachers of the law were looking for some sly way to arrest Jesus and kill him. ²"But not during the Feast," they said, "or the people may riot." ³While he was in Bethany, reclining at the table in the home of a man known as Simon the Leper, a woman came with an alabaster jar of very expensive perfume, made of pure nard. She broke the jar and poured the perfume on his head.
⁴Some of those present were saying indignantly to one another, "Why this waste of perfume? ⁵It could have been sold for more than a year's wages^[a] and the money given to the poor." And they rebuked her harshly.
⁶"Leave her alone," said Jesus. "Why are you bothering her? She has done a beautiful thing to me. ⁷The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me. ⁸She did what she could. She poured perfume on my body beforehand to prepare for my burial. ⁹I tell you the truth, wherever the gospel is preached throughout the world, what she has done will also be told, in memory of her."
¹⁰Then Judas Iscariot, one of the Twelve, went to the chief priests to betray Jesus to them. ¹¹They were delighted to hear this and promised to give him money. So he watched for an opportunity to hand him over.

10 Ways to Save Money in the Kitchen - Guest Posted on Frugally Marisha

2010-08-27T22:09:00.000-04:00

I feel so loved! Frugally Marisha graciously asked me to write a guest post for her blog! How exciting is that! I decided to begin a series on her blog and continue it here. I began in the kitchen.

In an effort to write an eBook (with a lot of help from you - check this past post!), I challenged myself to create a list of ways to save money in each room of the house. My lists are by no means exhaustive. That's where you come in. Help me fill in the blanks and write a fantastic eBook which will, in turn, be offered FREE to all readers!

So, with that said, take a trip on over to Frugally Marisha. Check out my post. Check out her blog! Leave her some bloggy comment love!

Money Minute - 5 Quick Money Saving Tips

2010-08-25T10:46:00.000-04:00

Have you ever wondered what little things around the house you could do to keep more green in your wallet? I've got 5 quick tips for you. These have made a difference at our house!

Plan It - Use the sales circular each week to plan out meals. Buy just what you need and stick to it. I plan 2-3 extra meals per week in case our finicky taste buds decide they don't want what was planned. Menu planning alone has cut $50 - $75/month off our grocery budget.
Unplug It - After charging electronics, unplug the cord. To make this easier, try using a surge strip. Plug electronics into surge strip. When charged, unplug the whole surge strip rather than single electronics.
Cut It - See where you can cut back with the amount you use. Can you use just a little less shampoo each time? Can you use half the fabric softener? Can you use that razor just ONE more time? It's amazing how much the little things add up.
Hoof It - When you are shopping at open air malls or shopping plazas, park in a central location. Make a quick trip back to the car between stores but don't move the car until it is just too far to walk. Save on gas and wear on the car. Help your starter last a bit longer! Burn a few calories in the process.
Maintain It - By spending a little to properly maintain your vehicles and appliances, you will improve performance and efficiency, extend the life, and avoid expensive catastrophes.

How do you save money around the house? Let me know in the comments! I may use your tips in my upcoming eBook and I will give you credit and link to your blog!

This post is shared at We Are THAT Family as part of Works For Me Wednesday. Check out more great tips there!

New Comment System!

2010-08-22T22:03:00.000-04:00

Hi all!

Exciting news - Penny Pinching Penguin has just launched a new and updated comment system! I have installed IntenseDebate with the CommentLuv feature. Please, don't be frightened - it really is easy!

Here is a link to a recent post I wrote for Rediscovering Domesticity about the comment changeover. I walk you through all the features.

My favorite feature is CommentLuv! If you are a blogger, you can opt to show everyone a link to your last post! I love reading through other blogs!

Take a moment and test out the system - leave a comment! Even if you have never commented, just say a quick hello - I'd love to hear from you!

Scripture Sunday - Widow's Mite

2010-08-22T20:50:00.000-04:00

I absolutely love this passage although it challenges me each time I read it. Am I giving sacrificially? What is the condition of my heart as I give?

Mark 12:40-44 (New International Version)

⁴⁰They devour widows' houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most severely."

The Widow's Offering

⁴¹Jesus sat down opposite the place where the offerings were put and watched the crowd putting their money into the temple treasury. Many rich people threw in large amounts. ⁴²But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins,^[a]worth only a fraction of a penny.^[b] ⁴³Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, "I tell you the truth, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. ⁴⁴They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on."

What do YOU take away from this verse? Please share in the comments.

Bloggy Basics - Coming Soon to a Blog Near You

2010-08-20T15:12:00.000-04:00

I am so thankful for the SITS girls, BlogFrog, and ProBlogger. I just finished the 31 Days to Build a Better Blog challenge with them. It was an amazing experience and I plan to go through the workbook again in just a few weeks.

Needless to say, you will be seeing changes over the next few months. Hopefully they will be changes for the better!

I leaned so much through this challenge. Some of the biggest things really were not about blogging at all. One of the biggest light bulb moments came after spending some time of a fellow blogger's site, Adventuroo. Melissa at Adventuroo had an idea of how she could help others with their blogging and she ran with it. Her Momcomm Mondays are a great source of information about all things bloggy. She let go of her fear and made her idea a reality.

You know what? I can help other bloggers. Some of you who read Penny Pinching Penguin are bloggers or may be considering blogging. While I may not have tips for well-seasoned bloggers, I know I can offer a tip or two for those of you still fairly new to the blogosphere.

Enter: Bloggy Basics.

I will offer a quick tip for blogging weekly. I will help you improve your blog one step at a time. I'll help you even make a few bucks blogging as well!

Have specific questions? Just email me or leave a comment at any time. If I don't know the answer, I'll try to find out!

Check back o Tuesday for the first installment of Bloggy Basics!

Anatomy of a Coupon - Circular Coupon

2010-08-16T15:37:00.000-04:00

It's time for an anatomy lesson. Don't worry - it's not that gory.

It is very important to understand all that is on a coupon in order to use it effectively. I have found that knowing what it all means helps with disputes! Many cashiers have no idea that the store gets reimbursed for the coupon's face value PLUS an extra $.05 - $.10! (This information is very helpful when confronted with "You're saving too much." or "You can't get things for free - it's not fair to the store." or "You're putting us out of business!")

Today's focus is on a circular coupon - one that you would clip from the paper. I have included a handy graphic to help with the lesson!

Every coupon has the same basic parts:

Type
Expiration
Product
Savings
Redemption Info
Stipulations
Barcode

Let's break each part down.

Type
There are two main types of coupons - Manufacturer coupons and Store coupons. Manufacturer coupons are issued by the manufacturer. Stores get reimbursed 100% for these coupons. Store coupons are issued by the stores themselves and do not get reimbursed. Think of store coupons as a type of sale. The type is almost always noted at the top of the coupon in this spot. Occasionally it will be noted at the bottom. There is one exception, however. Rite Aid coupons found in the Rite Aid circular WILL say "Manufacturer Coupon" at the top, but they are actually store coupons. In the barcode of a Rite Aid store coupon, you will see the letters RC or RA indicating that it is indeed a store coupon.

Knowing the type of coupon is essential in maximizing savings. In most stores, shoppers are able to use BOTH a manufacturer coupon AND a store coupon on one item! This practice is called coupon stacking. For the best deals, use coupon stacking in conjunction with sale prices.

Expiration Date
Coupons will note the latest possible date for use in this space. Some coupons may say "No Expiration Date" and those are legitimate coupons. Be wary of coupons that have no mention of expiration date - some people have created fraudulent coupons without this information.

Product
Simple. This is the product(s) which the coupon may be used for. Note that I did not highlight the PHOTO of the product. The wording is what is important. Often a coupon will be printed for multiple items and have only one item pictured. If you are confronted by an uninformed cashier, politely point out that the coupon clearly states in the wording what it may be used for. Make sure you are abiding by any exclusions.

Savings
Here is where the coupon states how much is to be saved. Be aware that coupons which state "save $1 off of 2 products" (or something similar) will attach to BOTH products. You are not able to use two of these coupons with two products. Also, be aware of your stores' policy regarding doubling coupons. Sometimes you can save more using a $.50 coupon that doubles rather than a $.75 coupon that does not double. Lastly, be aware that many store computers will automatically adjust a coupon down if the value of the coupon exceeds the cost of the item (thus negating any possible overage).

Redemption Info
As shopper, this information isn't very important. It simply shows the store what address to send the coupon to for reimbursement as well as the extra compensation (usually $.08 per coupon). It can, though, help in a challenge situation. It is helpful to point to this information when a cashier won't accept a coupon because you are saving too much or because he or she feels the management will get in trouble for taking too many coupons. It is reassuring to these cashiers to know that the store actually makes a few pennies on each coupon accepted (some managers need to be taught about this as well).

Stipulations
Be sure to check this small type before using a coupon. This will further clarify how the coupon may be used (and knowing this information can save some embarrassment at checkout). Some common stipulations: one per transaction, one per purchase, and one per customer. Click on my Coupon Basics on the right sidebar (part of my Penny Pinching 101) for more explanations on what these mean.

Barcode
Make sure you don't accidentally tear or cut off part of the barcode when you are clipping coupons! Make sure all the little numbers are intact as well. There is one very important number in the barcode (the main barcode indicated in the picture above): the very last number. That last number is almost always a 5 or a 9. Why is this important? It all comes down to doubling. When shopping at stores that double coupons, it is important to know that barcodes that end with a 9 will NOT double in almost all cases. Cashiers must manually double the coupon. barcodes that end with a 5 WILL automatically double - even if the coupon states "Do Not Double or Triple." That wording is present to protect stores. The doubled or tripled amount of the coupon is not reimbursed by the manufacturer. It is simply a courtesy from the store. Manufacturers print "Do Not Double or Triple" on coupons to protect stores. Stores have the option to NOT honor a double of these coupons, though most do.

Come back next week to learn the anatomy of a printed coupon. Arm yourself with knowledge so you can have the most successful bargain hunting possible! Do you have any questions about circular coupons? Ask them in the comments or email me (click the envelope icon in the right sidebar).

FREE ebook - Fun, Fabulous and (mostly) Free Preschool Projects Ebook

2010-08-16T14:01:00.000-04:00

Fun, Fabulous and (mostly) Free Preschool Projects Ebook (FREE!)

I want to thank Laura at Heavenly Homemakers for putting together this fabulous ebook and even better, for offering it up for FREE!

I have mentioned this in the past, so you may already have it. If not, definitely get yours today! Let me know how you like it!

Scripture Sunday - Intro

2010-08-15T21:06:00.000-04:00

Welcome to a new feature of Penny Pinching Penguin! This feature will run either Saturdays or Sundays.

Take a break from couponing and deal hunting. Feed your soul. Chew over what the scriptures say about money. Money is one of the most-written-about topics in the Bible.

Amidst our good times and our tough times, God is there. He knows what we need. He knows what is best. He tells us in Matthew what needs to be foremost in our lives:

Matthew 6:31-33
“Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for clothing?’ “For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Stupid Tax

2010-08-12T11:08:00.000-04:00

Dave Ramsey says that when you pay money because of a mistake you made, you have paid stupid tax. I just realized this morning that I paid some stupid tax.

I signed up for a free trial of a "service to be named later" (I don't want to say anything negative until I see how they handle the situation). I marked on my calendar when that free trial would end. I even gave myself a few days buffer so I could cancel in plenty of time.

Oops.

We had a big storm and lost power for several days. Right when I needed to cancel. I should have canceled when my calendar said so.

I am seeing if they will reimburse me a portion. I'll keep you posted.

Have you paid stupid tax? Leave me a comment and let me know!

Money Minute - 10 Ways to Lower Your Energy Bills

2010-08-11T10:57:00.001-04:00

Oh how I hate those couple months with really high heating or cooling bills. You know the ones - they come in January and February and then again in July and August.

Well, today I bring you some tips to ease the pain.

Check your duct work. Head down to the basement or crawlspace. Take a couple tissues with you. Your goal is to check for big leaks. If you feel a lot of air coming through joint in the duct work, you can hold a tissue in front to pinpoint the leak. Repair with the shiny silver duct tape (works on most duct work). We discovered one whole segment of ducting had separated from the main line so no cold air was coming up to our bedroom. What a difference fixing it made!
Check your vents. In the winter, close many of the vents upstairs. Heat rises, so you'll want to make sure downstairs is comfortable. That heat will rise and heat the upstairs. The reverse is true in the summer. Open all vents upstairs and limit the ones open downstairs.
Check the temp. To save energy, try keeping the thermostat at 72 degrees in the summer and 68 degrees in the winter. For even more savings, try moving another degree or two.
Check your doors. Rooms will heat and cool faster when closed off since open hallway spaces aren't being heated or cooled then.
Check your fans. Fans use much less energy than air conditioners or heaters. Circulating air will make rooms more comfortable overall. Use ceiling fans throughout the year. Check the setting to see which direction the air is blowing. Have it blow up toward the ceiling in the winter to circulate warm air without cooling the room. Have it blow down in the summer to cool while circulating air.
Check your thermostat. If you have a programmable thermostat, use it! If the house is empty during the day, don't pay to heat or cool it. Have the temperature set several degrees hotter or colder when the house is empty. Have it change an hour or so before arriving home. Consider lowering the temperature in the winter through the nights and use extra blankets to keep warm.
Check your filter. Make sure your air filter is reasonably clean. It will improve air flow and will clean the air better than an old and dirty filter.
Check your unit. Be sure to trim back weeds and plants from the outside unit. HVAC units need plenty of air flow to run efficiently.
Check your usage. Get an energy audit. Many local power companies have free energy audits online. These audits will walk you through ways to make your home more energy efficient. Some companies will send technicians to your home to audit in person (usually for a small fee). Many companies will also do a free audit over the phone (mine has).
Check the efficiency. When you do need to replace heating and air units, consider the efficiency of the new unit. Spending a little more upfront could save thousands over the life of the unit.

I hate those expensive seasonal bills. Using this checklist works for me! You may also want to consider getting on a budget bill pay plan where the cost is even through the year.

Want some more great tips? Check out Works for Me Wednesday over on We Are THAT Family.

Make sure you enter my giveaway for a $25 Kroger gift card!

Coupon Basics

2010-08-01T21:45:00.001-04:00

Vocabulary:

One Per Customer - one coupon per paying customer
One Per Purchase - one coupon per item purchased. Example - purchase 3 boxes of cereal and use 3 coupons.
One Per Transaction - one coupon per time through checkout. Example - purchase 3 boxes of cereal and use only 1 coupon unless you purchase each box as a separate transaction.
Manufacturer coupon (MFR) - coupon issued by the manufacturer. One coupon per item unless otherwise noted. The store is fully reimbursed for this coupon PLUS they get a small handling fee.
Store coupon - coupon issued by individual store. Often, store coupons may be stacked with manufacturer coupons. Stores are not reimbursed for this coupon, rather, it is like an in-store sale.
Stacking - Using a manufacturer coupon and a store coupon on the same item. Nearly all stores allow coupon stacking.
Rolling - The practice of using one reward to pay for all or part of the next deal that will produce a reward. Common ways to roll deals - use Extra Bucks at CVS to pay for items that will yield more Extra Bucks, use a Target gift card to pay for items that will yield another Target gift card.
YMMV - Your Mileage/Market May Vary - not all stores put items on sale/clearance at the same time, so depending on where you live, you may have a different experience compared to others
Purchase - one item
Transaction - entire order you are paying for
BOGO - Buy One Get One
OYNO - On Your Next Order
FAR - Free After Rebate
Q - coupon
Blinkie - the little machines in the store with a blinking red light that shoots out coupons
Peelie - the coupons found on products in the store that can be peeled off
MIR - Mail In Rebate
IP - Internet Printable coupon

Coupon Ethics

This topic is very important to me. I hear stories every week of stores who have altered coupon policies (and have become less coupon friendly) because of an incidence of coupon fraud. It makes me sad that the actions of a few people seriously hinder the savings ability of all of us who use coupons correctly.

My goal on this blog is to only pass along deals and information that are completely legit - no grey area and no hint of fraud. If there is ever a deal posted that you question, please don't hesitate to contact me so I can investigate further!

Basic Coupon Rules:

One manufacturer coupon per item (unless otherwise stated on coupon).
Internet coupons may NOT be photocopied.
For coupon printing sites, you may use your back button to print usually 2 copies per computer. Manufacturers have built in a print limit for each computer and a maximum amount of prints per campaign. IP's have unique codes to prevent fraud.
Coupons are to be used on items written on coupon. There are some programs out there that explain in detail how some companies have less-specific coupons where a coupon intended for a specific item can be used on a list of items due to how the coupon is coded. Using coupons this way is fraud. The manufacturer has clearly stated what item the coupon is intended for and the coupon should not be used on anything else.

Some stores just are not very knowledgeable about coupon use and try to deny coupons that are legitimate. Some stores have altered their policy to decline certain coupons (such as for free items or internet coupons). Arm yourself with information about proper coupon use plus with the store's coupon policy. I have found that in most cases, either a manager or customer service can remedy any coupon issues.

Common Confusions by Stores: (don't let these deter you - get help from customer service or a manager either while checking out or after - if they can't/won't help, contact the corporate office via phone or email - stores want to keep customers and keep them happy)

You are saving too much. I can't let you get these items so cheaply.
You can only use one coupon in this order. (some stores limit how many "like" coupons they will accept - my Kroger only takes 3 "like" coupons in an order - most of the time, the checker is confused between purchase and transaction)
You didn't purchase the item in the picture. (sometimes the coupon won't scan right - it happens. If you have purchased the item that is WRITTEN on the coupon, you may use that coupon - it does not NEED to match the picture since often coupons can be for multiple items and only one picture is used)

Now for a little controversy. I read over and over how it is fine to stack an electronic coupon with a paper coupon. I've done it. It works. Well, the electronic coupon companies often do not endorse this practice. P&G had an ecoupon service that shut down because of coupon stacking. Shortcuts.com has been very vocal about how they do not permit coupon stacking. Check with the individual ecoupon site for their policy regarding this. From time to time, I honestly have no idea what is on my card (I know, shame on me!) and end up unintentionally stacking.

As I get more information from the various ecoupon sites, I will pass it along to you. I would love to see a simple change in coding on ecoupons to enforce any policies to help us stay on the up-and-up.

Guest Posting

2010-08-01T14:36:00.002-04:00

I love featuring guest posters on this blog! I have several areas where guest posting would be welcome. I encourage you to contact me using the form below should you be interested.

Why guest post?

allows more exposure for your blog
generates increased traffic for your blog
by guest posting regularly, your blog becomes recognized in your niche

Why do I post guest posts?

to help fellow bloggers to get more exposure
to give my peeps a chance to hear other bloggers
to pass along great information
to highlight awesome blogs

Openings:
Choose from these areas where I have openings for guest posts or pitch me with your idea.

Money Minute - write a 2-3 paragraph post with one quick and simple way to save a few dollars. Check the Money Minute tab for some ideas from my past posts.
1-Store Preview - Do you do store match-ups and scenarios? Apply to be a featured blogger for my 1-Store Preview on Saturdays.
Scripture Saturdays - Be part of a new feature on Penny Pinching Penguin. Write a post featuring a Biblical scripture about money.

If you are interested, fill out the form below to contact me. I will not share your information. Thank you!

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Legal details:

Guest posters will retain the copyrights to their post
I reserve the right to request edits or to decline a guest post offer
I reserve the right to share the post (with author's bio and links)
Author has the right to share links to the guest post
Author has the right to use the guest post elsewhere

Great Website: Econobusters

2010-07-30T16:51:00.000-04:00

Hi all!

I have been so busy with the 31 Days to a Better Blog challenge plus caring for 2 under 2 plus struggling with postpartum thyroid issues that posting has taken a back seat *sorry*!

Never fear, Econobusters is here! Click on over today to see all the cool freebies for this Friday! While you are there, you can download a free ebook entitled "Molly Green Fresh" filled with yummy recipes and tips using fresh ingredients. I can't wait to try the Basil Pesto and the Something Special Lemonade.

Molly also offers a free newsletter with awesome perks. If you sign up for the free Minute with Molly newsletter, you will receive a free menu planning E-Book that is full of menu planning forms, help topics and recipes (this is a really great resource).

Besides the Freebie Friday, Econobusters has guest bloggers such as the Hillbillly Housewife, has regular posts on money-friendly tips and tricks, plus has great recipes.

If that wasn't enough, Molly has a membership program which costs $3.95 a month. This price includes the monthly Digest (online magazine that goes into much more depth on a monthly topic--July is Summer Fun from A-Z). Not only do you get the Digest, but there are TONS of other free resources that you are given that is not available on the blog or anywhere else.

Check it out and let me know what you think!

Money Minute - Make Clothes Look New Longer (Laundry)

2010-07-25T22:34:00.000-04:00

As I was doing the wash today, I noticed some clothes were starting to "pill" when still quite new. We don't have the extra money to keep replacing clothes, so I try to keep them looking as new as I can for as long as I can. Seeing those "pills" made me remember a tip I read long ago.

To keep clothes looking new longer, simply turn garments inside out before washing. That way, the fabric that is seen when worn isn't the fabric taking the brunt of the agitating and therefore it stays nice. Also, be mindful of the weights of fabrics and of any decorations that may snag other garments. I try to wash all denim together rather than with other garments.

What works for you?

Top 7 Ways I Make Money Online

2010-07-21T14:59:00.000-04:00

Awhile back, I asked all of you what you wanted to see more of on this blog. The number one thing was more talk of making money online. I aim to please!

Now, I am not making a ton of money, but I am making enough to cover our gift budget for the year including birthdays and Christmas. Like I always say, every penny counts!

Here are my top 7 ways that I make money online.

Swagbucks - Earn money just by searching the internet like you normally do. Earn more when friends sign up under you. Read all about it here in this past post. I have earned over $200 in one year.
Blog Affiliate Programs - If you have a blog, you can earn a little money through affiliate advertising programs. It never hurts to get in touch with a company before you feature a product or service to see if they have an affiliate program. Even though I am an affiliate with many companies, I have made the choice to only pass along deals that I will do myself. Here are my favorites: Escalate Network, Logical Media, Amazon Affiliates
Opinion Outpost - I have had a lot of success with this survey company. I get sent several surveys per week and qualify for close to half of them. I have earned close to $150 in one year.
Mindfield Surveys - This company is quickly moving up to the top of my list of companies where I have had success. I get several survey opportunities each week and qualify for many, however, these fill up quickly.
Toluna Surveys - There is so much potential to earn with this company. I find I run out of time before completing all the surveys offered to me. To earn additional points, there are poll questions on the Toluna homepage worth 15 points or more.
Sponsored Tweets - Use Twitter to make a little money. Send out advertising tweets. Amount you can be paid for each ad is determined by how many followers you have. Accept or decline advertising offers as you please. Earn a percentage of what friends who sign up under you earn.
Online Rebates - If you shop online, make sure to start in a rebate site such as ShopAtHome or Ebates (I like to compare cash back rates and go with the highest one). Earn $5 for just signing up. Earn $5 for each friend referred who makes qualifying purchases. With ShopAtHome, you can earn a few pennies for each coupon redeemed that was printed through that site. Reach $20 in account and get a check!

Money Minute - Teach Children About Budgeting

2010-07-16T17:08:00.000-04:00

Oh - it's such a heard lesson to learn. Budgeting. Self control. Blech! As I have budgeted more, I have learned how freeing budgeting is. I know exactly what I can spend and can buy what I want as long as I stay in my limits. No more fretting. No more fighting.

Well, I just read about a great way to teach kids about budgeting and couponing. First, you join the Nielsen Homescan panel. Next, you get a fun scanning gun to scan your purchases. Lastly, upload your purchases each week. Simple.

Now, how does that teach kids about budgeting? Easy! Talk to them about using budgets and let them scan the purchases. How much fun would grocery shopping be if your kids could use a scanning gun just like the cashiers?

Now, what is Nielsen Homescan? Well, it's the same Nielsen that does television ratings. The Homescan panel is a way for Nielsen to see what people are purchasing. They are a reputable company just looking for some more households to represent the US.

I tried to get in - made it all the way to the last step (really, it's not that hard at all - an initial survey and one follow up email or phone call to get you set up) and learned that I needed to have either a land line or a PC - we have cell phones only and run Macs) before learning we couldn't do it because of our technology situation. I really wish we could be a part of this panel - it would be so much fun!

Do You Know Where Your Money Is?

2010-07-14T21:56:00.000-04:00

Make sure you enter my giveaway for a $40 gift card good at 200 online stores!

I have always hated budgets, well, until we took Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University. Dave doesn't call it a budget, he calls it a spending plan. The key is to not only know where your money is going but to TELL it where to go.

I have used Quicken for years. I thought it was a great way to track and budget. It started to get expensive to buy it when we replaced computers. The newer versions seemed too cumbersome for me to use.

Enter Mint. Mint is a FREE secure online budgeting tool. Mint will automatically download your transactions from your accounts into the software. Mint does not save passwords and has no way of entering your accounts.

Track your spending. Create spending categories. Make your money work for you.

Here's what Mint has to say:

Mint is fresh, free, and intelligent online money management software. Over 1 million people already use Mint's online money management and budgeting software today, and they're adding over 3,000 users every day. Mint.com is tracking $175 billion in transactions, $47 billion in assets and has identified more than $300 million in potential savings for its users.

I have used Mint for several months and am quite happy with it. The only problem I have had is that my account settings do not work with my bank. I need to re-enter a lot of information each time I log on. It's a problem on my bank's end (don't even get me started on my bank!).

Go ahead - give Mint a try. Show your money who is boss!

*post may contain affiliate links. See my Disclosure policy for more information.

Ebates Deals

2010-07-10T16:12:00.000-04:00

I have written before about using rebate sites when shopping online. My favorite so far is ShopAtHome. A close second is Ebates. I will check both before making an online purchase to see which offers the highest rebate for the items I wish to purchase. Both will start you off with $5 in your account when you first sign up.

Ebates has some double cash back promotions going on this week. Make sure to check them out if you plan to shop online this weekend! Here are a few highlights:

You can also look for online coupons at retailmenot.com. Many of these coupons can be used in conjunction with the Ebates rebates! Make sure to click through Ebates to the store first. Enter any codes at checkout.

Coupon for a Cause

2010-07-08T19:57:00.003-04:00

I know that if you have been couponing for any length of time, you have extra STUFF that you won't use. How many tubes of toothpaste will you REALLY use in a year?

What do you do with your surplus besides selling it? Do you give it away? Where do you donate? What do you donate? Have you sent goods to our soldiers through anysoldier.com?

With so many stories of improper coupon use out there and so many companies pulling back on coupon acceptance, I feel it is time to put a positive spin on couponing. It's time to give. Let's show our communities that we are helping others through our frugality.

Post details about your donations. Post links to blog posts detailing your giving. Encourage each other to give what we don't need to those who really do.

UPDATE:
Come back at any time to link your blog posts about Couponing for a Cause in TWO places! Link up on this post and again on the Couponing for a Cause tab at the top of the page! Let's spread the wealth and help others!

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