Frugal Southern Living

Wordless Wednesday - A Special Thanksgiving Letter!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather from Frugal Southern Living) — Wed, 07 Dec 2011 12:05:00 +0000

Ok, so this one may not be so "wordless", but I have to tell you about the letter my niece gave me for Thanksgiving. My boyfriend and I hosted Thanksgiving this year for both of our families and when my niece showed up, she ran up and gave me a letter that she had written to me. It was the absolute best gift or letter I have received from my nieces EVER!

Here's a photo of the letter and what it said:

"To: Aunt Heather

I'm glad your my aunt. I love being with you. You make me feel happy. You are nice. I love you more than the whole entire universe.

From: Hailey"

Isn't that SO sweet?! The last line about did me over! My niece is only eight years old! I love getting letters from my nieces because when they write, they write what they really mean and it's very heartfelt.

Thank you, Hailey! Your letter made my Thanksgiving that much more special to know that the time I spend with you girls is special to you also. I <3 you, Shelby and Lainey more than the whole entire universe!!

Hailey

Shelby, Hailey & Lainey

Money Saving Monday - Online Daily Deal Sites!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather from Frugal Southern Living) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Lately, I've seen a TON of websites that offer different daily deals. I Google'd it just to see how many sites like this there were and it's incredible -- somewhere around 400 or more! Some deals are "National" meaning you can use them online or at the specific retailer, say CVS, nationwide. Others are location specific. I've listed 15 of the more common and popular sites with links to sign-up.

I try to browse thru them each day, because I'm a shopaholic and LOVE saving 50-90% on deals (who doesn't like to save their money?!). It's also a fun way to try new products or companies at a discounted rate. Need yet another reason? Purchasing deals on these sites make great gifts because they don't have to be used that day! The deals only have to be PURCHASED on the day specified and usually have an expiration date from a few months to a full year or more from the date of purchase! You can find deals on everything from baby items, toys, children's learning tools, books, clothes, shoes, designer clothes and accessories, vacations, home furnishings and accessories, food, wine, restaurants, spas and much, MUCH more!

BONUS: Some sites offer FREE credit for signing up thru my referral link (you'll see it noted next to the link below) and it helps me out *wink*

2nd BONUS: Some sites also give you FREE credit to shop with just for referring your friends (no purchase required) and others FREE credit after your friend makes his or her first purchase. Either way it's FREE shopping! I'm thinking this is going to come in handy for Christmas gifts!

TIP: I would recommend setting up a separate e-mail account for your coupons and daily deal sites as sometimes it can be overwhelming to try and go thru all the e-mails. You can set up a free account thru Google or Yahoo.

Some of the deals I've taken advantage of include:

3 FREE $20 Gift Cards to YMIJeans.com (Retail $20 Each - SAVED $60!)

FREE Certificate for Prescription Glasses with Coastal.com (Retail $99 - SAVED $99!)

$20 Old Navy Gift Card for $10 (Retail $20 - SAVED $20 because I used $10 in Credit I had in my Account)

$10 CVS Gift Card for $5 (Retail $10 - SAVED $5!)

Paintball: 20 FREE Admissions including equipment for $12.99 (Retail $700 - SAVED $687.01!)

$30 Arigato's Japanese Steakhouse Gift Certificate for $15 - bought 2 (Retail $60 - SAVED $30!)

$2 for 5 Blockbuster Kiosk Rentals (Retail $5 - SAVED $3!)

List of Most Popular and/or Common Daily Deal Sites:

NOTE: WFP (With First Purchase)

Groupon (No Sign-up Credit/ $10 per Referral WFP)
Living Social (No Sign-up Credit/ Purchase Your Deal and Get it FREE when 3 of your friends use your unique deal referral link - given after you purchase your deal and unique to that specific deal)
Eversave ($3 Sign-up Credit/ $10 per Referral WFP)
Save More ($10 Sign-up Credit/ $10 per Referral WFP)
No More Rack ($10 Sign-up Credit/ TONS of FREE GIFTS just for Referring Friends - NO Purchase Required!)
Dealster ($1 Sign-up Credit/ $5 per Referral WFP)
Plum District ($5 Sign-up Credit/ $5 per Referral WFP)
Modnique ($5 Sign-up Credit/ $15 per Referral WFP of $100 or More)
KGB Deals (No Sign-up Credit/ $6 per Referral WFP) Unfortunately, Invite (as far as I see) is by E-mail Only. If you are interested, leave a comment and I will e-mail you the link!
Lot 18 (No Sign-Up Credit/ $25 per Referral WFP)
Tippr ($5 Sign-up Credit/ $5 per Referral WFP)
Mamasource by Mamapedia (No Sign-up Credit/ $10 per Referral WFP)
One Kings Lane ($15 Sign-up Credit/ $15 per Referral WFP)
8 Moms (No Sign-up Credit/ $8 per Referral WFP)
Haute Look (No Sign-up Credit/ $10 per Referral WFP)

I've been scoping out the deals and my TOP 5 favorite sites by far are No More Rack, Living Social, Groupon, Plum District and KGB Deals. Sign-up, refer some of your friends and start shopping for FREE!! Enjoy! :)

HOT FREE Udi's Gluten-Free Product Coupon!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather from Frugal Southern Living) — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 02:09:00 +0000

Hurry over to Udi's Gluten Free Foods Facebook page, "Like" them and then scroll all the way down to send 3 friends a coupon as well!

NOTE: You'll see that they are advertising FREE Udi's Gluten Free Gift Bundles (worth $15) on their Facebook page. However, this was only available to the first 10,000 -- even I missed out :( It does say that after the Gift Bundles are exhausted that everyone else will get a FREE product coupon good on ANY Udi's product. Limit one Gift Bundle/Coupon per household. I don't know how long this offer will be good, so HURRY!.. NOW!.. What are you waiting for? Enjoy! :)

VitaCost.com $10 off ANY $10 order = FREE!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather from Frugal Southern Living) — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 21:26:00 +0000

I have to say I am SUPER excited about this deal! I've seen it posted around for a while now and well, with a name like VitaCost I thought they only sold vitamins so I bypassed the deal.

Tonight, I decided to check out their website and HOLY MOLY there are TONS of deals on Organic and/or Gluten Free mixes and foods, as well as regular household goodies such as batteries, cleaners, snacks, gifts and more!

As I was browsing I was throwing things into my shopping cart. I think I got a little carried away because it was over $400 with all the products I wanted to try! (sshhh, don't tell my boyfriend LOL). I certainly can't afford that right now, but I CAN afford $10 in FREE groceries! As the saying goes, if it's free it's for me ;)

Here are a few of my favorites that I want to try out:

Peanut Butter & Co White Chocolate Wonderful (16 oz) $4.85 =>I actually got the chance to go to their sandwich shop in NYC in February and have been wanting to try this ever since!

St. Dalflour Pineapple & Mango Fruit Spread (10 oz) $3.34 => I'm thinking this would be SO yummy on an english muffin for breakfast!

Divina Olives Stuffed with Feta Cheese (7.8 oz) $7.19 => For my boyfriend.. He loves cheese and olives, so I'm thinking this might be a yummy treat for him!

Annie's Homegrown Organic Cheddar Bunnies (6.75 oz) $3.27 => For the kiddo's.. It's like an organic Cheez-It!

Nylabone Dura Chew Bone (Bacon Flavored!) $2.00 => For our dog, Cato. I can't leave him out when I'm shopping!

Deep Steep Organic Bubble Bath Lavendar Chamomile (17oz) $6.04 => My treat, cause I'm tired after doing all this shopping ;)

As you can see, my total is a little more than $10 (comes to $26.69). VitaCost is currently offering FREE Shipping on all orders $25 or more. I think it's certainly worth the extra little bit!

Ok, so you didn't think I was done.. did you?! I found a couple more offers that this site is offering (I seriously think this is going to be my new, favorite online shopping site!):

1) Don't forget to check the FREE SAMPLES section on their website to add some goodies to your cart at no cost :) This section can be found under the "Quick Links" section in the left side bar of the website, near the bottom. There are currently 6 different sample options!

2) Groupon (another fav of mine!) is offering a $30 certificate to VitaCost.com for only $15! I have NOT tried this deal yet, but here is my thinking.. If I want free shipping on my order I have to spend $25 (out of pocket at a minimum would be $15) OR I could spend the $15 on this Groupon and get $40 worth of items ($30 for the Groupon and $10 for my original $10 off any $10 order) for only $15 PLUS free shipping!!! But you need to hurry, there is only two hours left to take advantage of this deal (I found it kind of late, sorry!)

3) Now, for the best part (and why this site has become my new favorite online grocery site!).. Drumroll, please... VitaCost is now offering $10 for EVERY referral after they make thier first purchase with NO cap! What this means is FREE groceries!! :) See why I'm so excited?! Go thru THIS LINK to use your FREE $10 off any $10 order and then start sharing with your friends. The best part is once you use your $10 coupon thru my link, you'll get your own link to share with your friends and they will get a $10 off $10 order coupon for using your link.. A Win-Win for everyone!

FREE Sample of Origins New Plantscription Anti-Aging Eye Treatment

noreply@blogger.com (Heather from Frugal Southern Living) — Thu, 06 Oct 2011 15:53:00 +0000

Head on over to Origins Facebook Page and "Like" them to score a FREE sample of their new plantsciption anti-aging eye treatment!

I'm Back!!!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Sat, 01 Oct 2011 17:33:00 +0000

Oh how I've missed you! Yes.. YOU, my wonderful and supportive readers!! I can't believe I've been out of the loop nearly four months from posting daily deals, coupons and money saving tips :( Don't worry, you weren't the only one that missed out. I haven't been deal shopping in the four months I've taken off. So, yes.. I'm craving some new deals too (my budget took a huge hit from no coupons -- proof that couponing DOES save you money!)

I had a post similar to this written back in August, but the day I had it scheduled to post my Dad had another heart attack. This year has been the worst for our family in a long time, health wise. So, I took a few months off to help out and get my life re-organized.

Since it's been so long, I thought I would lay out the weekly blog schedule for you so you can keep track of when certain posts will go live. NOTE: Special blog posts, giveaway posts and a few other miscellaneous posts are not included in the scheduled and can be posted at any time. The blog schedule is what I try to have up daily for you. Anything else is a bonus! :)

Monday - Money Saving Tips, Mamavation Monday (fitness), Mailbox Monday (photo of samples and freebies received in the mail from the previous week with links to how to get your own - if they are still active)

Tuesday - How Tuesday, Comment Love Tuesday

Wednesday - WINS Day, Wordless Wednesday

Thursday - Meal Plan Thursday (grocery deals & recipes)

Friday - Freebie Friday, Follow Friday

Saturday - Sneak Peek Saturday (store deals)

Sunday - Family Day Sunday (personal blog post for the week), Spotlight Sunday (feature blog post on one new blog, one homemade or work from home business and one company)

FREE Greeting Card & Shipping from CardStore.com!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 01:25:00 +0000

Cardstore.com is currently offering a Free Greeting Card AND Free Shipping to the first 10,000 customers that use the promo code FBFC929 at checkout!! Hurry up and head over to create your personalized card today.

I just made a card and it will be on its way to our house very soon :)

My New Addiction - Pinterest!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 06:08:00 +0000

I LOVE this website -- Pinterest! Just when you think you've run out of ideas.. waalah! there's about a million new ideas from other users :)

The website is super easy to use. Just click "Repin" on any photo you like to save it to your "Board". This is like a virtual corkboard to "pin" all your favorite ideas, wants or must-try's to! I've only been a member for about two weeks and in that short time, I've created 15 boards and liked 986 things. Yikes! I've got everything from fashion, beauty & hair ideas to recipes to design inspiration to kids crafts and more pinned. Check out Pinterest, but be warned.. it's addictive!

PS- You can find all my boards and pins by searching "flsouthernsaver".

HOT Online Deal - FREE 20 Page Photobook TODAY ONLY

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 19:02:00 +0000

Sign up a new account at SaveMore.com and get a FREE $10 credit! Today's deal is for an 8x10, 20 page photobook priced at $8.50 ($34.99 value). After your sign-up credit it costs you nada, zip, zilch = FREE! :)

The voucher doesn't expire until 12/27, so you can plan now and even use it as a holiday gift! NOTE: Shipping is NOT included. When you redeem your deal for a photobook you will need to pay $6 shipping.

Features:

* Available in Classic & Modern
* Easily create your own photobook online
* Long lasting, high-quality paper & bindings

Details:

Expires December 27, 2011. Valid only on Classic or Modern Photobook. Only one voucher may be used per transaction. Not to be combined with any other offer. Shipping is not included. Standard shipping for the US is $6. Additional pages may be added for $1 a piece. Production time for photobook is three business days. Limit three for yourself and one as a gift. Vouchers will be available to be redeemed after 12 noon on Monday 6/27.

Social Media has Changed My Life Significantly!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Thu, 23 Jun 2011 15:12:00 +0000

Thank you to BING Social Search for sponsoring my post about social media. I was selected for this sponsorship by the Clever Girls Collective, which endorses Blog With Integrity, as I do.

When I first saw the question, "How has social media changed your life significantly?" I just kind of sat there. Hmm, other than the obvious of keeping in touch with friends and family, I had never thought about this. After sitting down and thinking about how it has changed the last couple of years, I can't believe how much social media plays a part in my life, but it's definitely a fun part!! :)

I'm sure there's many more ways social media has impacted my life, but there's three obvious things that hit me right up front.

The first is obviously the relationships I have with friends and family. It's incredible that I can keep up with 125 of my family and friends - no matter where they are! There's absolutely no way I could do this in real life, how exhausting! I moved my Junior year of high school to a county 2 hours away from all my friends. 2 hours may not seem like a whole lot compared to how far I could have moved, but it was enough for me to become distant from a lot of my friends. Social media, especially Facebook, is WONDERFUL! Within the last two years, I reconnected with one of my best friends from high school AND found out she moved only an hour and a half away from me! Now we keep up on Facebook and try to meet up when we can. In fact, we have a Harry Potter marathon planned for next month that I am SUPER excited about!! :)

The next thing is my new found love of writing and a promising future as a blog owner! In school, believe it or not, I HATED English and writing papers. Maybe it was because I was forced to, maybe it was the topics, but I never saw myself becoming a freelance writer or owning 5 blogs! Social media is a big part of who I am now and launched an unbelievable online career for me. It allows me to follow the people that first got me into blogging, connect with companies, find out the latest scoop in Twitterland, and have a following on my own blog I never dreamed of. I know I'm just starting, but seriously.. I never thought I'd have 1,500 people on Twitter or 2,000 people on Facebook that would want to hear what I have to say?

Which leads me into the second reason I LOVE social media.. helping others! The beginning of last year, I attended a Social Media event with Maria Bailey from BSM Media and Mom Select in Tampa, FL. I met a few fellow bloggers and the infamous Maria Bailey, but what stands out the most of that event, to this day, was hearing the impact of how my blog touched someone's life! I had no idea!! We all went around the room and introduced ourselves and our blog. When it was my turn, Maria stopped me and said she had to share something. Someone had told Maria how much my blog made a difference in their life. The person was part of a military family and struggling financially, but because I shared some couponing tips and deals on my blog they were able to help their family tremendously. Maria asked her which blog and she told her "Frugal Southern Living"! I was truly humbled to hear how much my writing and deal making helped just one family. Before, I just considered this a hobby and a way to get my shopping addiction on without spending a whole lot of cash. Now, I am incredibly inspired to make this blog a full time thing and want to help as many people as I can. Social Media can reach an infinite amount of people in seconds, it's incredible!

The last thing that comes to mind is how I've grown personally from social media. I am naturally a shy, very reserved person. By writing my feelings and thoughts on the internet thru blogging, Facebook and Twitter and sharing life's moments (sometimes with complete strangers), it's helped me to become more open. This one took a while to develop, but I eventually became more comfortable online and in person. In fact, I can't wait to go to my first blogging conference with people I've never met LOL! Hoping to attend the next BlogHer, Savings.com Save Up or Disney Social Media conference.

Social media has impacted my life greatly. How has social media significantly changed your life?

Sneak Peek Alert! HOT Online Deal

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 06:37:00 +0000

This FREEBIE will NOT be available until June 23rd at 9AM EST, but you may want to mark your calendars if you want (or even need) to snag it!

CoastalContacts.com is giving away 10,000 pairs of FREE prescription glasses! You can grab yours in three easy steps and to make this as easy as possible, you can actually grab your code BEFORE the giveaway.. so go NOW! Well, after you read the rest of these instructions ;)

1) Click on the photo above (either one will work)
2) "Like" CoastalContacts.com on Facebook
3) Click on the "Free Glasses USA" tab on the left

How it works:

*CoastalContacts.com is giving away 10,000 pairs of glasses with prescription lenses! You'll need a special code (can be obtained via the 3 steps above) to use starting at 9AM EST on June 23rd.

*Get prepared! You'll need your glasses prescription and a selection of 2 or 3 frames in your size (use their Find Your Perfect Fit tool!) in case they sell out.

NOTE: This offer is valid only on coupon eligible frames ONLY!

*Once the giveaway is LIVE, place your order and use the coupon code at checkout. This deal is limited to the first 10,000 people who request them. So be ready with a few tips below!

NOTE: You WILL pay shipping on this offer, which starts around $10. I've never personally taken advantage of this offer, but I've heard from other bloggers and readers, who have received these glasses, that say paying a nominal shipping charge is NOT equal to finding a cheap $10 pair of glasses! The glasses on this site are high quality, name brand and they guarantee you'll be thrilled with them!

*PS- If you're not happy with the glasses they send you, simply send them back (they even pay the shipping!) and exchange them for another pair.

TIPS TO PREPARE FOR THIS FREEBIE: (Courtesy of Gimmie Freebies!)

1) Click HERE to see all of CoastalContacts.com's Coupon-Eligible Frames

2) You'll need your eyeglass prescription and the measurements of the distance between your eyes. You can use their Virtual Mirror to see how the frames will look on you. Since you can scale your picture to size, you'll get a good idea of how the frames will fit your face. You can also watch THIS VIDEO to see how to use the measurements on your current frames to find a pair of glasses that will have a similar fit.

3) Check out their website ahead of time. Find your frames ahead of time (with 2 or 3 back-up frame selections) and avoid any that say "Coupon Not Applicable", as those aren't included in the promo. Your free pair of glasses will include their standard 1.5 index lenses, which accommodates up to -8.00. However, if your prescription is over a + or -2.00, you may want to upgrade to a thinner, lighter lens. If you chose to upgrade your lens, or have selected progressives, transitions or a tint, you will see the cost of the upgrade in your order total. NOTE: You will pay about $10 - $15 for shipping.

BONUS!! Click thru the Ebates website to get to CoastalContacts.com and get 7% back in rebates PLUS a code for free shipping off any order thru 7/1/11! (Use coupon code - COASTALFREES) This will make an absolutely GREAT deal if they allow you to use both coupon codes! If you're not a member of Ebates, click thru my link HERE to join and you'll also be eligible for a $5 gift card upon joining (after your first purchase).

Website News: HOPEFULLY a New E-mail Feature and Blog Look!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Sun, 19 Jun 2011 04:47:00 +0000

NEWS #1: I've been wanting to post more than one post a day (and sometimes I do!), but I don't like to bombard your e-mail with several mini posts. I have seen other bloggers that have one e-mail go out with all the posts from that day, love it! I can write, review and post with best of the bloggers but I'm not very techy, so.. trying to figure out how to do this has been a mystery for me! I've subscribed to FeedBurner and (hoping I've got all the settings right) you should now be getting only one e-mail from me per day. If this does not work, PLEASE let me know. I'll recruit some help to get this right. My worst fear is losing subscribers because I e-mail them too much :)

NEWS #2: Frugal Southern Living is getting a makeover!! The Blog Fairy has done some incredible blog makeovers, so I've enlisted her help. It will be a few months before you see any changes, but I'm on the list (currently #33!) Hoping the list moves along fast, because I can't wait to spruce up the site. I have a few new features I will be adding -- hopefully a coupon database, MAYBE a clipping service and a few other surprises I'll keep hidden for now ;) Once the new look is up and live, I'll be hosting a BlogWarming Party! Well, more like posts and review but with some great giveaways!! :)

HOT Online Deal - FREE Business Card Holder

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Sat, 18 Jun 2011 19:36:00 +0000

Go to the 1SaleADay Facebook page and "Like" them. Once you've done that, hurry on over to their website 1SaleADay and you can purchase a Business Card Holder for FREE! No strings attached AND no cost! About two months ago, they offered a free headset for your phone and it came within a week, so this company is for real! Enjoy :)

(Thanks to RainingHotCoupons for sharing!)

Verizon FiOS Rocks!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 01:36:00 +0000

I am not afraid to admit it.. (for now) I am a jealous Verizon FiOS wanna-be! I love the small, country-setting we live in, BUT.. we are always the last to get any type of "cool" service to our area. To give you an idea of our county, some areas can ONLY get satelite TV. So for now, I get to hear about all the cool perks, envy my family and friends that have it, research it more for when I get my own place, and tell you all about..

I'm not a "techy" person. I know how to turn on the Xbox and I'm still learning my way around the system. With a little time (ok, a couple hours!), I can work my way thru setting up a surround sound, but I don't know why certain cords go where they go (psst- I look for colors and plug them in, lol). That's why I LOVE Verizon FiOS! It's simple, has everything I need in one place and future driven technology wise.

Why Verizon FiOS Rocks:

*Verizon's advanced fiber optic technology lets you watch HDTV with less interruptions, pixelation or weather interference.

*FiOS is more weather resistant and more durable than the copper phone lines or coaxial cable.

*With the massive bandwidth of a 100% fiber-optic network connected directly to your home, you'll be "future-proofed" for all the hot, new Internet tools and applications coming down the pike.

*Verizon FiOS TV was rated #1 in value, overall quality and customer loyalty, according to the 2010 Consumer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) Survey for the largest subscription TV service providers.

*J.D. Power and Associates ranked FiOS "Highest in Residential Television Service Satisfaction in the East Region," three years in a row.

Flex View:

With Flex View, you can buy, rent and watch On-Demand video titles on your FiOS TV, on your computer or on your mobile phone! So, imagine this.. you missed Water for Elephants (I really wanted to see this movie-- I LOVE Reese Witherspoon!) in the theater and prefer to watch it on FiOS TV On-Demand from the comfort of your living room anyway. You rented it late last night and weren't able to finish it. With Flex View on FiOS TV, you can finish watching it on your mobile phone while waiting in the car pool line.

Media Manager:

Media Manager is a Verizon service that lets you access media content that eitehr resides on or is streamed from your PC. Using Media Manager, you can access digital photos, music files, Internet radio stations, home videos and/or Internet videos from certain websites directly from your FiOS-connected TV.

TV Widgets:

Verizon FiOS features awesome TV widgets like Twitter, Facebook and YouTube, allowing you to Tweet directly from your TV, using your remote while watching TV. Yes, with FiOS, you can watch The Bachelorette and tweet about the fairy tale, dream dates with your girlfriends. Or update your Facebook status with "Yes, the kids are FINALLY in bed!" and virtually high-five your mommy friends - all from your TV! FiOS has remade TV into social TV.

FiOS Internet - "Internet as fast as it gets!":

There's a reason FiOS is America's top-rated, high speed Internet service. FiOS Internet gives you the fastest upload speeds and amazingly clear streaming video, but speed is only valuable when you've got great service. That's why they make sure FiOS isn't just faster, but also more reliable. FiOS doesn't let up during "peak" hours like when the kids come home from school, a time that other cable services slow down due to increased usage. FiOS Internet has won PCMAG.com's Reader's Choice award five years in a row. According to the leading technology review site, "Verizon FiOS stands alone when it comes to satisfied customers."

In-Home Agent:

In-Home Agent is a PC application that provides you with fast, easy solutions for FiOS and high speed Internet questions. It's 24/7 support at the click of your mouse! In-Home Agent, best used on your Home PC, provides step by step guided help to manage your FiOS or high speed Internet service.

With ALL these great perks, I can't decide which makes my top favorites!

I LOVE that I can have TV Widgets. Being a Blogger and constantly connected to my laptop or cell phone, I think its a fun and futuristic touch for FiOS to add social media to the mix! Tweeting and updating my Facebook status could be a way to add a few extra "Girls Night In" TV nights to the month. Just grab a glass of wine, tune in to your favorite show (my addiction is Greys Anatomy and Army Wives), then "Tweet" away with your girlfriends. Its nice to get out of the house, but just as nice to have some girly time even if its only on the couch, virtually :)

I also LOVE the Media Manager! I can share video's and photo's from family trips at our next get together, rock out to music files or the Internet radio while cleaning and more.

I DEFINITELY want Verizon FiOS once I get my own place and I hope it comes to our area soon! Meanwhile, this is your stealthy, envious friend hoping you enjoy your FiOS service while I'm stuck in time.

Frugal Southern Living Disclaimer: I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Verizon FiOS blogging program for a gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.

Wordless Wednesday - Fun in the Park!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 11:05:00 +0000

WINS Day - 52 NEW Giveaways to Enter!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Wed, 01 Jun 2011 11:00:00 +0000

Here are some of my best finds this week! Keep in mind that these are only the highlights of the HUNDREDS of giveaways currently going on. I have limited myself to up to 10 of my favorites in each category, but there are plenty more out there. So, to lead you in the right direction, I've also included some links for websites that have a complete list (Sweepstakes Directories). Please leave me a comment back on this post if you win!We would all love to congratulate you and hear all about what you won! Enjoy and Good Luck!

*Instant Giveaways*

Advance Auto Parts Race to Win Instant Win
Dollar General Suave Smart Giveaway
Doritoes Anyone Can be Chosen Instant Win Game
(Freebie Codes: 235110242 or 529219007)
Hostess Cupcake Jackpot Instant Win
Kraft Milk & Oreo's Instant Giveaway
Lindt Chocolate Share Life's Sweetest Moments
Malibu White Hot Summer
Moviefone Movie Tickets Summer Extravaganza!
Subway Grab the Green Sweepstakes
Wrigley Jr Non-Stop Summer Fun Giveaway
(Freebie Codes: JKJ736WWR4 or P75D533ED2)

*Vacation Giveaways*

AlloyTV: Embrace the Limelight - Win Recording Session OR Walk on TV Role
AT&T Ultimate Trip of a Lifetime worth $15,000
EL Monte RV - Win 7 Day RV Rental
Gold Medal Wine Club - Wine Tasting Tour in Italy
InterContinental Alliance Resorts - VIP Trip to Las Vegas
Mekhong - Win Trip to Mekhong to Experience Full Moon Party
Parenting Privleges - Win 2 Orbitz Roundtrip Airfare Tickets
Redbook - Win Vacation of Your Dreams (Worth $250,000)
Santa Cruz County - Win a Week Beach Rental & Kayak/Surfing Lessons for 4
Tone Trip for 2 to NY, NY with Special Meet & Greet with Sara Bareilles

*Misc Awesome Giveaways*

Better Homes & Gardens $25,000 Home Makeover

Daily's Summerology Spin Sweepstakes
Dolly Parton "Together You and I" Video Contest
Herbal Essences $500 Visa Gift Card
HGTV Custom Built Green Home (Worth Nearly $700,000)
Kaboodle $250,000 Fashion Jet-Setter Sweepstakes
Recipe.com $5,000 in Groceries
Troy Bilt Riding Lawn Mower & Assortment of other Products
Woman's Day $10,000 IKEA Gift Card
Wyndham Resorts - Win $50,000 Vehicle OR $25,000 Cash

*Photography Giveaways*

Parents Magazine - Your Child on the Cover PLUS $10,000

*Blogger Giveaways*

Here I've listed the top ten (in my opinion) giveaways that made it to my email from other bloggers this week. However there are literally HUNDREDS of giveaways from bloggers! If I've missed you, I apologize but I just can't list them all OR I may not know about your blog yet! List your giveaways below in my special linky and I'll follow your blog! It would also be nice if you'd return the favor ;)

Betty Crocker Gluten Free Pack, Ends 6/12 (Confessions of Overworked Mom)
Cisco Linksys Router, Ends 6/24 (Mommy of Two Little Monkeys)
KAVU Handbag, Ends 6/23 (Leslie Loves Veggies)
Kindle, Ends 6/20 (Madame Deals)
Pampers $300 Baby Shower, Ends 6/30 (Madame Deals)
Plow & Hearth $100 Gift Card, Ends 6/25 (The Kings Court IV)
RCA Small Wonder Video Camera, Ends 6/19 (As Mom Sees It)
Summer Infant Prize Pack, Ends 6/23 (3 Princes and a Princess 2)
Universal Resorts 2-Day, 2-Park Pass for 4, Ends 6/9 (Splanglish Baby)
Warmly Yours Under Desk Heater, Ends 6/20 (What's That Buzz)

*Social Media: Facebook and/or Twitter Contests*

Alaska Airlines Nuts for Hawaii - Free Trip to Hawaii
Bissell The White Sock Test - $15,000 Home Makeover
Dream Works/Kung Fu Panda 2 - Samsung D800 Smart TV
Jergens US - $1,000 Visa Gift Card, iPod Touch, Ultra Flip Camera & More
Kraft Foods Trident Vitality Gum - Gift Pack including Water Bottle & Candles
Little Debbie Million Smile Mission - 16 ft Airstream Sport Trailer & More
Nesquick/ESPN - The Ultimate Pass Trip & Behind the Scenes Tour of ESPN
Quaker Oatmeal - Family Home Entertainment System & $500 to Charity
Schwan's Great Grill Giveaway - Deluxe BBQ 300 & Schwan's Gift Cards
Starz.com Camelot Sweepstakes - Trip for 2 to Wales and London

*Grants and Contests towards Money for School*

Win a Semester Abroad to Study in China! (Video Submission)

*Links to Giveaway Listings*

*Add YOUR Blog Giveaways HERE*

One of the feature's I added to my WINS day post was a Mister Linky for fellow bloggers to add their giveaways! I'm always looking for new blogs to feature on my site, so add your giveaways and you may just get a feature on my site!

How Tuesday: How to WIN at Sweepstakes!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Tue, 31 May 2011 11:00:00 +0000

I kind of hit a writer's block on what to do for this week's "How Tuesday" blog post. Then I got this e-mail with information on a new TV Show that was seeking "Sweepsters" for a new show similar to "Extreme Couponing" but all about winning sweepstakes. PS- I don't know if that is actually a word, but it sounded cool for now ;) Anyway, you guessed it.. I've put in for the TV Special!

If you are already a "Sweepster", grab the information about casting for the new TV Special HERE.

I started entering sweepstakes about two years ago and have won NUMEROUS giveaways, etc. One of the biggest sweepstakes I have ever won, wasn't even for me.. it was for my Mom! I nominated her around April of 2010 for being a deserving Mom in the "Edwards Goes to" contest". She was selected as one of the top ten finalists and received a $500 spa gift certificate. After that, and some more judging, she was selected as the Grand Prize winner! She received an all expenses paid trip for 2 to Los Angeles, CA (4 days/3 nights) for the red carpet movie premiere of "You Again" and a year's worth Edwards Desserts! You can read all about her winning in my previous blog post "The BEST Giveaway I have EVER Won!" HERE.

Ok, so now you've seen and heard all about my winnings.. How do you get started? First, just like with couponing, I would suggest opening a separate e-mail account. Using Yahoo or Google Mail is free. You'll need to check this (in case you WIN!), but at least all the blog subscriptions and company emails won't be bombarding the e-mail you use to communicate with friends and family. Trust me, this is a lesson learned! :) Once you've got your e-mail all set up your ready to start entering! I'm going to show you some of my favorite spots to check for contests and sweepstakes.

Online Sweepstakes Directories

There are quite a few online sweepstakes directories online. My absolute favorite is Online Sweepstakes! On this site alone you can view sweepstakes that are ending tonight, were just posted today, by type of prize (Cash, Clothing/Jewelry, For the Home, etc), by type of sweepstakes (instant win, blog, referral, contest, etc) and much more! In the past I searched for the sweepstakes ending that night (I have won 75-95% of my contests this way). More recently, I started viewing the sweepstakes that were just posted that day. With some contests, you will see that they allow a daily entry. By simply entering the contests that end that night, I was missing out on a LOT of entries for contests I really wanted to win. Now that I follow the sweepstakes as they start, if there is a contest I want to enter daily I can save it to my Internet Favorites and enter daily! Here are a few more Online Sweepstakes Directories:

Company Websites

Check your favorite company and product websites. If they are hosting a contest or sweepstakes, it will most likely be on their homepage! While you're there don't forget to look for any printable coupons or special offers they may be currently promoting :)

Bloggers

Other bloggers, like myself, often host giveaways. We are usually given the same product we are giving away for free, to test and write an honest opinion about. We then promote the product, good or bad thoughts, and host a giveaway on our blog. Blog giveaways are a WIN/WIN/WIN!! Win for the company, because we promote them and their product, give them exposure and, sometimes, leads to new clients. Win for the blogger, because we (usually) get a free product to test and keep, as well as exposure from the giveaway itself. AND a Win for the blog reader, because they could potentially win the giveaway!

Social Media: Facebook/Twitter

Just like checking a company's and/or products website, you will want to follow them on Twitter and Facebook. I have won quite a few giveaways JUST from Social Media, which is super easy!

Twitter Giveaways I've Won: ZhuZhu Pets (from Overstock.com), Brownie & Cake Mixes (from Betty Crocker), Kitchen Magnets (from Pillsbury), Eye Shadow (from Pretty City) and Free Edwards Dessert Pie Coupon (from Edwards Desserts).

Facebook Giveaways I've Won: Bottled Water & Laptop Case (from Aqua Hydrate) and Movie Tickets to Bridesmaid.

I really should keep a list of what I've won, but I seriously can't remember it all now. I'm sure there is more than that! All I can say is follow your favorite companies, products and blogs on Facebook AND Twitter. Some contests are social media specific, meaning they may only be giving away a gift to their Facebook fans. Next month, they may only do it for their Twitter fans. If you are following them on both, you have a shot at winning each month. If not, you lessen your chances and may miss out.

Sweepstaking TIPS: A MUST Read before you Start!

1) Be Patient! Entering sweepstakes is a frustrating hobby for the impatient, but its rewards can certainly be worth it. The process of entering giveaways (especially blog giveaways) can sometimes be tedious, especially when you are not seeing results right away. Even if you do win a giveaway, it may be a couple of weeks before you hear anything. First, the contest has to close, then the entries are validated and the winner is notified. It's a process! My best advice is to be patient and you will start seeing results!

2) Perseverance! As I mentioned before, you may not see any winnings right away, especially in the beginning. If your first entry happens to be a winner, you still may not hear anything for a few weeks, so don't let it stop you from entering LOTS more contests in the meantime. Keep going and entering, even when you don't think your going to win. You'll be surprised! I went thru a patch of a couple months, where I was getting prizes EVERY single week from contests I had entered! It was SO exciting! Then, it stopped for a couple weeks. I kept entering giveaways even though I wasn't winning at the time and wa-lah! I started winning again. I hear a lot of people say "I'm not lucky enough to win". First, as with ANYTHING you do in life, try to be positive. If you think negatively, your only hurting yourself. YOU predict your outcome and if you're not entering, you can't win. Just keep entering!

3) Be organized. I don't mean you have to keep a list of every giveaway you've entered. If you get started like me, that list could be very long. But, I do have a separate file in my Internet Favorites that I save contests I want to enter daily. It's simple, I just click and enter. When you go to save them to your Internet Favorites, it usually lets you pick the name you want it saved under. I use this "Planet Hollywood Trip 6-3-11" This tells me that the contest is for a Planet Hollywood Trip (anything that will help you remember what the contest is for is what I put here) then the date is when the contest expires.

4) Learn to recognize legitimate sweepstakes. An article I found on About.com, written by Sandra Grauschopf, explains this very well:

"While most sweepstakes sites are run by legitimate companies that really do give you the chance to win amazing prizes simply by entering, there are always going to be a few bad apples in the bunch. A few sites disguise themselves as sweepstakes, but are actually nothing more than attempts to get your personal information for use in spam marketing, scams, or identity theft. Here are the top questions you should ask before entering sweepstakes, to ensure that you are only entering legitimate contests and giveaways.

Does the website have a private policy?

Legitimate sweepstakes sites will tell you how they are going to use the information that they collect from you. They should specify how your information is stored, whether it is shared with any partner companies, and how they will use that information in the future. Sometimes, this information may also be included in the rules.

You should also be sure to read through the privacy policy, especially if you have a "bad feeling" about the sweepstakes website. Some sites will have a privacy policy, and clearly say that they will spam you and misuse your personal information.

Is there a clear set of sweepstakes rules?

Legitimate sweepstakes sites have rules that govern their contests, and they make those rules clear for their entrants. These rules may be many pages long, or they may only take up a sentence or two, but they should be present and easy to find. You should run from sweepstakes that have no rules whatsoever - they are clearly more interested in getting your information than in running a fair contest.

Does the Giveaway Follow Basic Sweepstakes Laws?

Legitimate sweepstakes follow the basic laws that govern contests and giveaways by making it clear that you have not won before you enter, by not charging a fee to enter (except in the case of some creative contests), and by having a reasonable way to enter. Some signs that a sweepstakes site is not legitimate include requiring proof of purchase without an alternate entry method, charging an entry fee, and promising you better chances to win if you make a purchase.

Does the Sweepstake Require a Reasonable Amount of Information?

It's perfectly standard for legitimate sweepstakes sites to ask you for information such as your name, address, date of birth, email address, and telephone number. However, they should never require that you enter financial information such as a credit card number, bank account number, or social security number in order to enter to win.

If you do win a prize, you may be required to reveal your social security number, but this should never be asked on an entry form.

Is There a Company Behind the Sweepstakes?

Legitimate sponsors run sweepstakes in order to promote their products, websites, or services. If you cannot tell who the sponsor is or what they are promoting, you should be extremely wary of the sweepstakes. Some legitimate sponsors do create separate websites for their giveaways, but they should make it clear who is hosting the sweep and why. If you cannot find any sign of a company behind a sweepstake, this is a sign that the giveaway is really an attempt to scam you out of personal information.

Can You Get to the Sweepstakes from the Sponsor's Home Page?

Sometimes disreputable companies will try to seem more legitimate by creating a sweepstakes site with the look of a solid sponsor. They may steal color schemes, styles, and logos to try to seem like they are approved by their target sponsor. A good way to check whether sweepstakes really originate from the reputable sponsors they claim is to check the sponsor's main web page and see if there is any reference to the sweep. Not all sponsors will advertise their giveaways on their main web pages, but most do.

Do You Have a Bad Feeling?

Some sweepstakes sites will just give you the creeps, even though you can't pinpoint exactly why. If you get a really bad feeling about a particular giveaway, just pass it by. There are more sweepstakes out there than you could possibly enter, so there's no reason to risk putting your personal information at risk if there's a chance that the giveaway is not legitimate."

5) Taxes. Now for the bad news regarding sweepstakes! While you may not be required by the company to report all giveaway winnings, on the larger giveaways (laptops, cars, trips, etc) you will be required to pay taxes. Not necessarily up front, but you will have to report it on your next year's income taxes as it is considered income.

Money Saving Monday: How to Save $$ on Gas!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Mon, 30 May 2011 11:00:00 +0000

I don't know about you, but I don't seem to have as much money as I did this time last year and I'm making the same amount! In fact, I don't have a lot of the housing bills I did before (since I moved in with my parents) and my car payment is even $200 less. How is it I still have less monthly? One obvious answer comes to mind every time.. GAS!

Hopefully the prices are starting to come down a little! I saw it priced $3.54 near us the other day, which still isn't great but it's better than $3.89! I should have done this post a while ago, but I saw a clip on the Today Show that got me thinking and asking myself "How can I save money on gas?"

Obviously, at least for me, buying a new (or even new-to-me) car is out of the picture. I just bought my 2008 Chevy Equinox SUV last July. Maybe it wasn't the greatest car pick, since it doesn't get the best gas mileage, but its the one I wanted. Some of your bad habits, may be costing you more when you fill up. Watch this clip that I saw on the "Today Show", as I didn't realize some of my bad habits could be costing me money!

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

I was absolutely AMAZED at the difference in this 20 mile trip, nearly 16 mph difference!! As a review, here are some tips that will save you money on gas:

1) For every 15 minutes your car idles, you burn a quarter of a tank of gas! Skip the drive thru. Park and go in to avoid idling costs.

2) Watch your cruising speed. Going 50mph vs 70 mph, will save you 8 miles per gallon.

3) Don't be hard on the gas/brake.

4) For every 100 lbs of extra weight, you reduce your fuel efficiency by 2%. This is a BIG thing for me. My backseat and trunk is usually filled with bags of goodies, my cleaning bucket (I clean house for a friend of mine and it stays in the car), etc.

5) 1/3 of your fuel is used in wind resistance. Remove the team flags, no matter how big or small they be.

A couple extra tips, that may seem obvious, but still mentionable are making sure your tires are inflated properly and keeping up with your car maintenance. All of these factor in to your gas mileage. If your car is kept up, it doesn't have to work as hard to use the fuel.

Additional ways you can save money when pumping gas are thru the actual price itself! Let me explain.. some stores offer rewards (in the form of gasoline) when you purchase from their store or use their credit/reward card. Here are some of my favorites

Fuel Perks

If you shop at BI-LO, Martin's, Rounday's or Winn Dixie, then you could be saving some money at the gas pumps! Sign-up by clicking on the link above and registering your store reward card with them. Once you do that, all you have to do is shop! There are participating Winn Dixie's in Florida, but unfortunately none in Citrus County are any of them :( They are mostly in south Florida. You can also shop online thru their website and earn a 5 cent discount per gallon for every $50 you spend online! You could literally be paying 50 cents per gallon for gas!

Sunoco A Plus Rewards Card

Grab your free card at your local Sunoco. Whenever you shop in-store, swipe your rewards card. Specially marked items will earn you discounts on fuel and the rewards keep adding up until redeemed! When you're ready, insert your rewards card at the pump and watch the price of the fuel drop! You can find a copy of the current "Specially Marked Items" on THIS FLYER (prices good only thru May 31st). Starting June 1st, just click the link above and you'll find the new flyer.

Shell Saver Card

The Shell Saver card acts like a debit card . There are no sign-up fees and no annual fees. Once you sign-up and receive your card, you will swipe it at the pump (instead of a debit or credit card). The card will save you 2 cents per gallon and the total comes directly out of your checking account as this is considered a debit card. Easy peasy!

Kroger Plus Card

Use your Kroger Plus Card for discounts on more than groceries! There are three ways you can save on fuel with Kroger:

1) Fill 2 or more prescriptions at your local Kroger pharmacy and receive 10 cents off per gallon!
2) Spend $50 or more in gift cards and receive 10 cents off per gallon!
3) Spend $100 or more in groceries and receive 10 cents off per gallon!

Rewards earned this month don't expire until the end of the following month, but unless you're car is already full from your previous savings.. who's going to wait? :)

CVS Free Gas Card Promotion - Weekly Ad

CVS is in it's second week of offering a deal for FREE $10 gas gift card! Whoo hoo!! Can you say F-R-E-E gas?! I don't see this deal going away any time soon either. Each week CVS offers different items, that when you purchase a total of $30 of any combination of them, you'll receive a $10 gas gift card to either BP

Just present your CVS ExtraCare card to the cashier when you make qualifying purchases (Although you should be showing her EVERY time you checkout! Never know when unsuspecting coupons or ECB's will print out!). Once your total for this deal reaches $30 - does not have to be all in one transaction - a coupon will print at the end of your receipt that you can redeem in-store for you free gas card.

To give you an idea, here are some of the items included in the deal this week:

Planters Peanuts (B1G1F), Select Post Cereals (2/$5), Doritoes or Tostito's (2/$5), Easy Feet ($9.99), Ajax Dish Soap (89 cents), Progresso Soup (2/$4), Miralax ($18.99), Excedrin ($6.99), Kleenex (3/$4), Select Kellogg's or Kashi Products (2/$6) and Nature Made Vitamins (B1G1F).

When used with coupons, these could be GREAT deals!

Wal*Mart Gift Card Discount

When you use a gift card to purchase your gas, Wal*Mart will give you a discount of 3 cents per gallon! It does not cost you anything to purchase a gift card (except the amount you want on the card), but it will save you money! I keep a gift card with $25 on it in my wallet JUST to purchase gas, so I can get the discount :)

Credit Cards

Check the credit cards you already own, as some may offer a discount I am not yet aware of. I don't own any credit cards, so I can't take advantage of this. Also if you are accepted and receive the gas station's credit card, they will often give you a discount on gas for re-fueling with them.

REMINDER: Holiday Weekend = NO Coupons!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Sun, 29 May 2011 03:55:00 +0000

I have a Love/Hate relationship with holiday weekends! I love the reasons for each holiday and the meaning behind them, but that means no fuel for my coupon addiction for a FULL week! Ahhhh!! *Insert Sad Face*

However, this is the perfect week for me to scour the neighborhood for anyone that may have coupons leftover they aren't using or simply haven't thrown away yet, and organize the one's I do have. I'm thinking about switching from my beloved coupon binder to a full insert filing system. How do you organize yours? I'd love to get thoughts and suggestions. Happy Memorial Day!

Meal Plan Thursday: Publix Deals 5/12

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Mon, 16 May 2011 02:49:00 +0000

Publix Deals for the Week of May 12 - May 18
(Good til Wednesday!)

Coupon Lingo:

BOGO = Buy One, Get 1 Free
RP = Red Plum Coupon Insert in Sunday Paper
SS = Smart Source Coupon Insert in Sunday Paper
P & G = Proctor & Gamble Coupon Insert in Sunday Paper
Tearpad = Coupon found on a coupon pad in stores (normally in the aisle or in front of the corresponding product)
Peelie = Coupon Sticker attached to product itself
All You = All You Magazine Coupon (found only at Wal*Mart)
WYB = When You Buy
Highlighted = Printable Coupon, Click on the Link to Print Yours
Bold, Red Deals = HOT Deals!

Sample Deal:

Item Name, Sale Price
Coupons to Use (Which Coupon and Where to Find the Coupon)
Final Price AFTER Coupons and any Rewards Earned

Example:

Gain Fabric Softner Sheets 40 ct. $1.87
Use (1) $1/1 Gain Fabric Softner Sheets P&G 10/10
=87 cents after coupon

Last Minute Tips for Shopping at Publix:

Stay tuned for my Guide to Shopping at Publix

When Publix has a Buy One Get One Sale, in order for most
Floridians to receive the second item free, we have to buy both items. Other states only have to buy one item and they will get that item half (50%) off.
Publix allows you to stack coupons. Meaning you can use one Publix store coupon and one manufacturer coupon on the same item.

If you are purchasing a Buy One Get One Free deal and have two of the same coupons, you CAN use them (one for each item purchased). Even though you are getting one free, you are still purchasing both and the store is just giving you one free. Actually they make money when you use coupons, because they get reimbursed for accepting them.

For Floridians, if we use coupons 50 cents or less, our coupons are not doubled. Other states will double coupons as long as they are 50 cents or less.

Publix accepts competitor store coupons! HOWEVER, each Publix store accepts different competitors based on the proximity of the competitor’s location. Ask your Publix who they consider as competitors!

Publix circulars in Florida run from Thursday thru Wednesday. Link to Weekly Ad HERE

*BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE*

Kraft Homestyle Macaroni & Cheese 12.6 oz bag, BOGO ($2.59)
Use (2) $1/1 Kraft Homestyle Macaroni & Cheese Dinner Printable (IE)/Printable (FF) OR
Use (2) $1/1 Kraft Homestyle Mac & Cheese Dinner (4/17 SS)
=30 cents each

Welch’s 100% Grape Juice 64 oz, BOGO ($3.91)
Use (2) $1/1 Welch’s Essentials Juice Cocktail Blend 5/1 SS (if included) OR
Use (2) 75 cents/1 Welch’s Juice (4/17 SS)
=96 cents to $1.21 each, depending on coupon

Bumble Bee Premium Tuna Chunk Light Tuna in Water 4 pk, BOGO ($3.99)

Hunt’s Tomato Ketchup 100% Natural 35 oz, BOGO ($2.15)

Use (2) 25 cents/1 Hunt’s® All Natural Ketchup, Printable OR
Use (1) 50 cents/2 Hunt’s ketchup, ConAgra Rediscover Family Home Mailer
=83 cents each

Del Monte Diced Tomatoes 14.5 oz, BOGO ($1.39)

Del Monte Canned Vegetables 11-15.25 oz, BOGO ($1.29)

Hidden Valley Dressing 16 oz, BOGO ($3.45)
Use (2) $1/1 Hidden Valley Farmhouse Salad Dressing (3/13 SS, if included)
=73 cents each
BONUS: Use (1) $1 Off Produce WYB 2 Hidden Valley Dressings, Peelie

7 UP, Canada Dry, Diet Rite and Sunkist 2L, BOGO ($1.89)

Thomas’ English Muffins 12 oz, BOGO ($3.89)

Nabisco Chips Ahoy! 9.5-15.25 oz, BOGO ($3.25)

Keebler Crackers (including Club, Town House and Flipsides), BOGO ($3.69)
Use (1) $1/2 Keebler Townhouse Crackers, Printable
=$1.35 each

Nature’s Own WhiteWheat Hot Dog Buns, BOGO ($2.59)

Maruchan Yakisoba Noodles 3.96-4.27 oz, BOGO (89 cents)
Use (2) 50 cents/1 Maruchan Yakisoba (3/13 SS)
=FREE

Vlasic Pickles 16-46 oz, BOGO ($2.89)
Use (2) 55 cents/1 Vlasic Pickles, Peppers, or Relish, Printable OR
Use (2) 75 cents/1 Vlasic Pickles, Blinkie AND
Use (2) 55 cents/1 Vlasic Pickles Publix Store Coupon, Spring Family Gatherings Booklet
=15 cents each

Bumble Bee Premium Chicken Breast 10 oz, BOGO ($3.49)

Back To Nature Granola 7.5-13.5 oz, BOGO ($3.79)
Use (2) $1/1 Back to Nature Cookie, Cracker, Granola, Printable (IE)/Printable (FF)
=90 cents each

Krusteaz Muffin, Cake Mix or Supreme Bar 16.5-21 oz, BOGO ($2.79)

Emerald Nuts Deluxe 10-11.5 oz, BOGO ($5.79)

Doritos Tortilla Chips 11-12 oz, BOGO ($3.99)
Use (2) FREE Pepsi Max 2L WYB Doritos, Publix Yellow Advantage Flyer

Sara Lee Honey Wheat Bread 20 oz, BOGO ($2.85)

Contadina Tomato Sauce 15 oz, BOGO ($1.19)

Pepperidge Farm Texas Toast 9.5-12.7 oz, BOGO ($2.69)

Seapak Shrimp Co 8-28 oz, BOGO ($7.59)

Ben & Jerry’s Ice Cream 16 oz, BOGO ($4.45)

Weight Watcher Smart Ones Desserts 4.36-6.6 oz, BOGO ($2.15)
Use (1) $3/10 Weight Watchers Smart Ones Products, Printable OR

Use (1) $1/5 Weight Watchers Smart Ones Products, Printable OR
Use (1) $2/8 Weight Watchers Smart Ones Products, Printable
=78 cents each WYB 10

Lenders Bagels 12-16.5 oz, BOGO ($1.99)

Fresh Express Salad Blends, BOGO (Price Varies)

New York Style Bagel Crisps 6 or 9 oz, BOGO ($2.69)
Use (2) $1/1 New York Style Bagel Crisps (2/27 SS)
=35 cents each

Starburst Fruit Chews, Skittles or Lifesavers 13-14 oz bag, BOGO ($2.79)
Use (1) $1/2 Starburst or Life Savers Jellybean Bags (4/10 RP)
=90 cents each

Publix Hydro Cream 1 oz, BOGO ($3.99)

Solo Squared Plastic Plates or Sologrips Cups, BOGO ($5.29)

Lysol Disinfectant Trigger Spray 22-32 oz, BOGO ($2.69)
Use (2) $1/1 Lysol Disinfectant Spray (4/17 SS) OR
Use (2) $1/1 Lysol Disinfectant Spray, Printable OR
Use (1) $1/2 Lysol Disinfecting Spray, Printable
=35 cents each

Seventh Generation Natural Dish Liquid 25 oz, BOGO ($2.99)
Use (2) $1/1 Seventh Generation Product, Printable OR
Use (2) $1/1 Seventh Generation Product, Printable OR
Use (2) $1/1 Seventh Generation Household or Personal Care, Printable OR
Use (1) $1/2 Seventh Generation Laundry AND Dish Product, Printable
=49 cents each

Pup-Peroni Dog Snacks 10 oz, BOGO ($5.59)
Use (2) $1/1 Pup-Peroni Dog Snacks, Printable
=$1.80 each

Meow Mix Dry Cat Food 3.15-3.5 lb bag, BOGO ($4.99)
Use (2) $1/1 Meow Mix Cat Food, Walgreens IVC (if your store accepts Walgreens coupons)
=$1.50 each

*DAIRY*

Egg Beaters 15-16 oz, 3/$5

Dannon Yogurt 6 oz, 20/$10
Use (2) $1/10 Dannon Single Serve or Light & Fit (4/10 SS)
=40 cents each WYB 20 OR
Use (3) 40 cents/6 Dannon Light & Fit (4/10 SS)
=44 cents each WYB 20

Pillsbury Rolls, Crescents or Loaf, 3/$5
Use (3) $1/2 Pillsbury Crescent Dinner Rolls (4/17 SS) OR
Use (3) 40 cents/2 Pillsbury Crescent Dinner Rolls (4/17 SS) OR
Use (3) 40 cents/2 Pillsbury Crescent Dinner Roll (3/13 SS) OR
Use (1) $1/3 Pillsbury Sweet Rolls OR Grands! Sweet Rolls (4/17 SS) OR
Use (3) 50 cents/2 Pillsbury Sweet Rolls or Grands Sweet Rolls (4/17 SS) OR
Use (3) 30 cents/2 Pillsbury Sweet Rolls OR Grands! Sweet Rolls, Printable
=Price Varies

Pillsbury Ready to Bake Cookies 16 oz, 2/$5

Yoplait Yogurt 6 oz cup, 8/$6
Use (2) $1/4 Yoplait Yogurt Cups, Great Deals on Great Meals Publix Store In-Ad Coupon AND
Use (1) 40 cents/6 Yoplait Yogurt Cups, Printable OR
Use (1) 40 cents/6 Yoplait Cups (3/27 SS)
=45 cents each

Nestle Coffee Mate Creamer 32 oz, 2/$5
Use (2) 55 cents/1 Coffee-Mate, Printable OR
Use (1) 75 cents/2 Coffee-Mate, Printable

Publix Chocolate Milk Half Gallon, 2/$4

Publix American Cheese Singles, 2/$5

Publix Sliced Cheese 6 oz pkg, 2/$4

*GROCERY & FROZEN*

Kellogg’s Special K Cereal or Bars 4.4-19.5 oz, 2/$5
Use (1) $1/2 Kellogg’s Special K Cereal (5/1 RP) OR
Use (1) $1/2 Kellogg’s Special K Cereals, Printable OR
Use (1) $1/2 Kellogg’s Special K Products, Printable
=Price Varies

Mott’s 100% Apple Juice 64 oz, 3/$6

Cheetos or Fritos, 2/$5

Bertolli Pasta Sauce 15-24 oz, 2/$4
Use (2) 60 cents/1 Bertolli Pasta Sauce (4/17 RP) OR
Use (1) $1.50/2 Bertolli Pasta Sauce (4/17 RP)
=$1.25 - $1.40 each

Coca Cola products 12 pk, 3/$12

Gerber Graduate Yogurt Melts or Yogurt Blends or Bars 1-6 oz pkg or 4 ct, 2/$5

General Mills Cheerios, $5.19
Use (1) $2/1 General Mills Cereal, Great Deals on Great Meals Publix Store In-Ad Coupon OR
Use (1) $1/2 Cheerios Cereal ANY (4/10 SS) OR
Use (1) 75 cents/1 General Mills MultiGrain Cheerios Cereal, Printable OR
Use (1) 55 cents/1 General Mills Honey Nut Cheerios Cereal, Printable (if included) OR
Use (1) 75 cents/1 General Mills MultiGrain Cheerios Cereal, Printable (if included) OR
Use (1) 55 cents/1 General Mills Honey Nut Cheerios Cereal, Printable (if included) OR
Use (1) $1/2 General Mills Cereals, Printable OR
Use (1) 75 cents/1 General Mills MultiGrain Cheerios Cereal, Printable (if included)
=$2.44

Progresso Soup 18-19 oz, $2.29
Use (1) $1/1 Progresso Soup, Great Deals on Great Meals Publix Store In-Ad Coupon
=$1.29
BONUS: Use $1 Off Bagged Salad (Use with Express Salad BOGO Offer), Peelie on Soup Can

Hellmann’s Mayonnaise 30 oz, $5.09
Use (1) $2/1 Hellmann’s Mayonnaise, Great Deals on Great Meals Publix In-Ad Coupon AND
Use (1) $1/2 Hellmann’s AND Vlasic Product, All You Mar 2011 OR
Use (1) $1/1 Hellmann’s Mayonnaise
=$2.09

Swanson Broth 32-49.5 oz, $2.59
Use (3) $1/1 Swanson Broth or Stock, Great Deals on Great Meals Publix Store In-Ad Coupon AND
Use (1) $1/3 Swanson Broth or Stock (4/10 SS) OR
Use (1) 50 cents/2 Swanson Broth or Stock (4/10 SS) OR
Use (1) $1/2 Swanson Broth or Stock (4/10 SS)
=$1.26 each WYB 3

Wish Bone Dressing 15 oz, $2.65
Use (1) 40 cents/1 Wish-Bone Dressings or Salad Spritzers, Printable
=$2.25

Knorr Pasta Sides, $1.29
Use (1) 55 cents/1 Knorr Sides, Great Deals on Great Meals Publix Flyer Coupon AND
Use (1) 45 cents/1 Knorr Item, any (5/1 SS)
=29 cents each

Pace Picante Sauce 24 oz, $3.29
Use (1) $1.25/1 Pace 24 oz, Great Deals on Great Meals Publix Store Flyer Coupon
=$2.04

V8 100% Vegetable Juice 46 oz, $2.95
Use (2) $1/1 V8 and VFusion Juice 46 oz, Great Deals on Great Meals Publix Flyer Coupon AND
Use (1) 50 cents/2 V8 100% Vegetable Juice (4/3 SS)
=$1.70 each

Zatarain’s Rice mixes 5.2-8 oz, 10/$10
Use (1) 75 cents/2 Zatarain’s Rice Mixes (4/17 RP)
=63 cents each WYB 2

Chef Boyardee 14.5-15 oz, 10/$10

Campbell’s Soup 7.5-11 oz, 10/$10
Use (1) 40 cents/1 Campbell’s Condensed Soup (3/6 SS) OR
Use (1) $1/3 Campbell’s Healthy Request Condensed or Light, Printable
=60 cents

Publix Soda 12 pk assorted, 2/$5

Coca Cola Products 20 pk assorted, $5.99

Folgers Ground Coffee 10.3-11.3 oz, 2/$7
Use (1) $1/1 Folgers Coffee (4/10 RP) OR
Use (1) $1.50/2 Folgers AND International Delight Products, All You Apr 2011, Printable

Folgers Simply Smooth Decaf or Colombian, 2/$8

Rico Rice 5 lb, $3.29

Pilon Espresso Coffee 10 oz, 2/$5

Coca Cola 2L assorted, 2/$3

Nestle Nesquick Powder 40.7 oz, $6.99

Morningstar Farms 5.25-14.5 oz, 2/$6

PF Chang’s Home Menu 22 oz, $6.99

Bertolli Complete Skillet Meals 21-24 oz, $6.99
Use (1) $1.75/2 Bertolli Frozen Meals, Printable
=$6.12 each WYB 2

Stouffer’s Meals (including Farmer’s Harvest), 4/$10
Use (2) $1/2 Stouffer’s Farmers’ Harvest Meals, All You Apr 2011 OR
Use (2) $1.10/2 Stouffer’s Farmer’s Harvest, Printable OR
Use (4) $1/1 Stouffer’s Farmers’ Harvest Entree, All You Apr 2011
=$1.50 - $2.00 each WYB 4

Publix Premium Ice Cream half gal, 2/$7

Publix Ice Cream Sandwiches 38.4-48 oz, 2/$6

*PRODUCE*

Florida Sweet Corn, 12/$3

Florida Athena Cantaloupes, $1.99

Florida Red Seedless Watermelon, 49 cents/lb

Southern Grown Blueberries 1 pk, $2.99

Vidalia Onions 5 lb bag, $3.99

Florida’s Natural Orange Juice 59 oz, 2/$6

Crunch Pak Apple Slices 14 oz, 2/$5

Publix Fresh and Tender Spinach 9 oz, $1.99

Florida Vine Ripened Tomatoes, $1.49/lb

Broccoli or Cauliflower bunch, 2/$4

Sliced White Mushrooms 12 oz, 2/$5

Eggplant, 99 cents/lb

Organic Grape Tomatoes 1 pt, 2/$5

*MEAT & SEAFOOD*

Boneless Top Sirloin Steaks, $3.99/lb

Boneless Top Sirloin Fillets, $4.99/lb

Boneless Chuck Pot Roast, $3.99/lb

Boneless Chuck Steaks, $4.29/lb

Top Sirloin or Chicken Breast Kabobs, $4.99/lb

Boneless Pork Loin Country Ribs, $2.99/lb

Beef Cubed Steaks, $4.49/lb

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, $2.99/lb

Publix GreenWise Market Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs, $3.49/lb

Perdue Chicken Breasts, $3.99/lb
Use (1) 75 cents/1 Perdue Boneless Chicken Breasts (4/10 RP)

Perdue Chicken Tenderloin, $4.49/lb

Hillshire Farm Deli Select Lunch Meats 8 or 9 oz, 2/$7
Use (2) 55 cents/1 Hillshire Farm Lower Sodium Product, Printable (if included)
=$2.95 each

Gwaltney Bacon 12 oz, 2/$6

Ball Park Franks, 2/$7
Use (1) $1/2 Ball Park Products (5/1 RP) OR
Use (2) 75 cents/1 Ball Park Beef Franks (5/1 RP) OR
Use (1) 75 cents/2 Ball Park Products (3/27 RP) OR
Use (2) 55 cents/1 Ball Park Angus Product (3/27 RP) OR
Use (1) $1/2 Ball Park Product (3/27 RP) OR

Boneless Pork Loin Chops, $3.99/lb

Boneless Thin Sliced Pork Loin Chops, $4.29/lb

Ground Chuck, $3.29/lb

Seasoned Beef Meatballs, $3.69/lb

Publix Bacon fully cooked, $4.59

Medium White Shrimp 41-50 ct, $4.99/lb

Medium White Shrimp Peeled and Deveined 51-6o ct, $5.99/lb

Fresh Salmon Fillets, $9.99/lb

Publix Tuna Steaks 12 oz, $5.99

Publix Seafood Soups 10 oz, 2/$7

Matlaw’s Stuffed Shellfish 7 -11 oz, 2/$7

*HEALTH & BEAUTY*

AquaFresh Toothpaste 6.4 oz, $1.19
Use (1) $1/1 Aquafresh Extreme Clean, Printable OR
Use (1) $1/1 Aquafresh Extreme Clean, Printable
=19 cents

Degree Ultra Clear or Dove Ultimate Clear 2.6-3 oz, $2.99
Use (1) $1/1 Degree Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant (4/17 RP)
=$1.99

Herbal Essences or Aussie Hair Care, 2/$5
Use (2) 50 cents/1 Herbal Essences or Aussuie Product (5/1 P&G) OR
Use (2) 50 cents/1 Herbal Essences or Pantene Hair Care (3/13 SS)
=$2.00 each

L’Oreal Revitalift or Dermo Expertise Products, $4.99
Use (1) $2/1 L’Oreal Paris Face Product (4/17 RP) OR
Use (1) $1/1 L’Oreal Paris Skincare Product (4/17 RP)
=$2.99 - $3.99 each

Softsoap Body Wash 15-18 oz, $2.99

Gold Bond Ultimate Healing Lotion 3.5-5.5 oz, $4.99
Use (1) $1/1 Gold Bond Product (4/3 SS)
=$3.99 each

Kellogg’s Special K Protein Meal Bar 6 pk, 2/$10
Use (1) $2/2 Kellogg’s Special K Products (5/1 RP) OR
Use (2) $1/1 Kellogg’s Special K Chocolate Protein Bars, Printable OR
Use (2) $1/1 Kellogg’s Special K Chocolate Protein Bars, Printable

Prilosec OTC 14 ct, $9.99
Use (1) $1/1 Prilosec (5/1 P&G)

Publix Sunscreen Continuous Spray 6 oz, $4.99

*HOUSEHOLD*

Kleenex Viva Paper Towels 4-8 roll, $6.99
Use (1) 50 cents/2 Viva Paper Towels Rolls, Printable

Publix Ultra Fabric Softener 51 oz, $2.99

Publix or GreenWise Bathroom Tissue 12 roll, $5.49

Febreze Set & Refresh, Noticeables Scented Oil Warmer or Air Effects 9.7 oz, 2/$5
Use (2) 50 cents/1 Febreze Air Effects (5/1 P&G) OR
Use (2) 50 cents/1 Febreze Set & Refresh (5/1 P&G) OR
Use (1) B1G1 Febreze Noticables (5/1 P&G)
=$1.25 - $2.00 each WYB 2

Gain Ultra Detergent 100 oz, $9.99
Use (1) $1/1 Gain Laundry Detergent (5/1 P&G) OR
Use (1) $1/1 Gain Detergent or Fabric Enhancer (5/1 P&G) OR
Use (1) $1/2 Tide or Gain WYB Bounty or Charmin (5/1 P&G) OR
Use (1) 25 cents/1 Gain Detergent (4/17 RP) OR
Use (1) $1/1 Gain Detergent (4/17 RP)
=As low as $8.99

Gain Powder Detergent 45 oz, $5.99
Use (1) $1/1 Gain Laundry Detergent (5/1 P&G) OR
Use (1) $1/1 Gain Detergent or Fabric Enhancer (5/1 P&G) OR
Use (1) $1/2 Tide or Gain WYB Bounty or Charmin (5/1 P&G) OR
Use (1) 25 cents/1 Gain Detergent (4/17 RP) OR
Use (1) $1/1 Gain Detergent (4/17 RP)
As low as $4.99

Kingsford Match Light Charcoal 12.5 lb bag, $7.99
Use (1) $3.50/1 Pork WYB King’s Hawaiian AND Charcoal (3/13 SS) AND
Use (1) $3.00/1 Fresh Meat WYB Kingsford Match Light Charcoal (Spring Family Gatherings, Publix Flyer Coupon)
=$6.50 Off Meat WYB Kingsford Match Light Charcoal

Kleenex Cottonelle Toilet Paper 6 roll, $3.99
Use (1) 50 cents/1 Cottonelle Bathroom Tissue, Printable OR
Use (1) 50 cents/1 Cottonelle Bathroom Tissue, Printable (IE)/ Printable (FF) OR
Use (1) 50 cents/1 Cottonelle Bathroom Tissue, Printable (IE)/ Printable (FF)

Publix Aluminum Foil 50-75 sq ft, $2.39

3M Filtrete Micro Air Filters, $9.99

3M Filtrete Ultra Air Filters, $13.99

GE Energy Smart Bulb, $2.99

*BABY*

Pampers Diapers 48-96 ct, $19.99
Use (1) $2/1 Pampers Diapers or Pants (5/1 P&G) OR
Use (1) $1.50/1 Pampers Diapers or Pants (5/1 P&G) OR
Use (1) $1.50/1 Pampers Products (5/1 P&G) OR

*PET*

Purina Beneful Dog Food 15.5 lb bag, $13.99

Fancy Feast Cat Food 3 oz, 10/$5
Use (1) $1/24 Fancy Feast Cat Food (5/1 SS) OR
Use (1) $1/18 Fancy Feast (4/3 SS) OR
Use (1) $1/24 Fancy Feast Product (3/6 SS)
=45 cents each WYB 18

Publix Bird Seed 20 lb, $8.99

My Graduation Moment and Tiny Prints

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Mon, 09 May 2011 02:41:00 +0000

Graduation time is FAST approaching! I can remember my high school graduation like it was yesterday, in fact this year will be my 10 year reunion.. yikes!

My Mom and Dad were in the crowd cheering me on, along with my Sister, Grandma, Aunt and Uncle. There were so many people that I spent the first half hour searching for them in the crowd from my seat. I remember them FINALLY getting to the end of the alphabet and hearing them call out my name. This was the moment I've waited 12 years for! I walked across stage, shook hands with the all the school "officials", grabbed my diploma and a pretty yellow rose (our class flower) and then walked off stage. At this point, I was just happy I didn't trip going across stage (I was known to be kind of klutz and some would argue that it hasn't changed). We walk back to our seats, listen to the some more inspiring messages and then performed the traditional closing gesture to any ceremony -- the cap toss! It was then that I took a peek at the piece of paper I've worked SO hard for - what..? It's gone! Is this a joke? Where the heck is my diploma? They didn't tell us until after the ceremony that we would have to wait in line to get our diploma's. They really should prep you for that! Here I was thinking I'd let it slip out of the padded folder they gave you and I was pretty sure by then it had been trampled by the hundreds of people that were walking around. Sheesh!

I remember my graduation gift from my parents. They used to tease me that, and I'm sure you've heard it before, "money doesn't grow on trees". Well, for graduation.. it kind of did! My parents took a small, leaveless tree and placed it in a planter. Where they would normally place dirt or grass, they put quarters and coins. On each of the branches they tied on dollar bills with ribbon. It was such a unique gift and I LOVED it! :)

Graduation was important to me. It marked a place in my life that I worked so hard to get to and in the same sense was also a new beginning. It was definitely one of the biggest accomplishment in my life and still is. I graduated with 3.4 GPA and worked extremely hard. The lessons I learned in school were beyond math and science. I learned how to succeed in life by putting in hard work and dedication to each new project. The only thing I would have done differently if I started school over, was to try and get my GPA higher and participate in more activities. I would have loved to earn a full-scholarship!

In the few months leading up to graduation, I ordered everything I could from the school to make it "official".. announcements, invitations, envelopes, seals.. you get the idea! They were pretty, but I'm sure they looked like every other graduation announcement received that year. The only thing left out, unfortunately, was personalizing them. I truly wish I had known about Tiny Prints back when I graduated. I haven't graduated college yet, but I plan on going back and when I graduate I know where I'll be getting my announcements!

Tiny Prints provides stylish, modern and unique graduation stationery including graduation announcements, graduation invitations,and thank you cards for teens. When graduation season has come and gone Tiny Prints will still be here to fill all your stationery needs with their exclusive designs from the nation's top designers. You'll find summer party invitations, personalized greeting cards, thank you cards, business cards, and even custom wedding invitations. Come try the easy card personalization, powerful preview engine and top-notch customer service and paper quality for yourself! With Tiny Prints by your side commemorating every holiday and momentous occasion is a cinch!

Frugal Southern Living Disclaimer: I did not receive any monetary compensation. However, I will receive $50 credit for TinyPrints.com from Tiny Prints and Global Influence for sharing my graduation memories and Tiny Prints with my readers. Opinions in this post are my honest and unbiased thoughts and yours may vary.

WINNER of Disney on Ice Toy Story 3 Tickets!!

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Sun, 01 May 2011 07:41:00 +0000

Since this was a local contest, there were only 9 entries giving everyone that entered a GREAT chance of winning :) Who was our winner? Was it you?

Here is the winning comment pulled by Random.org:

#2 Angie writes "Buzz is our favorite!!!"

CONGRATULATIONS to Angie and her family for winning our family 4 pack of tickets to Disney on Ice presents Disney-Pixar's Toy Story 3! Please check your e-mail and respond within 48 hours! :)

Heart of Haiti Project: A Woman Who has Helped Me

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Sat, 30 Apr 2011 02:40:00 +0000

Women are natural nurturers, so choosing just one women that has helped me is near impossible. Besides the woman I am about to tell you about, there is my Grandmother who has offered countless prayers and direction to living a more Christian life; numerous aunts and my sister. My best friend Christy has certainly helped me become a more stronger person and always been there for me. One of my closest friends Janie quickly became like a big sister to me, guiding me and helping me thru life since we met nearly 14 years ago! To her, I'll be forever grateful :)

Then there's the woman who without I would not be here today.. my mother. She, along with my father, has been my biggest supporter in life. She is always giving me encouraging advice, there for me 24/7 and taught me more than she knows about life. She is my closest friend and the person I can't imagine not being able to talk to. I don't know that I'll ever be able to repay her or thank her for all she's done (and continues to do) for me. While I don't have my own children, yet, I hope to one day be the mother that she has been to me; and hopefully, leaving an impact like she has done.

As you think about the women who have helped you in life, I'm sure your mother is also top of the list.. Mother's Day is next weekend! How will you celebrate? Are you still looking for that PERFECT gift?

The devastating earthquake of January 2010 has made it virtually impossible for Haitians to make a living. Raw materials have been wiped out, there are a lack of secure and sanitary conditions and little funding to support economic relief. Purchasing one of these handcrafted masterpieces directly benefits Haitian artisans by allowing them to support their families with dignity and purpose. Artisans receive 22 percent of the retail price for each item in the collection. This initiative offers the first sustainable income since the earthquake, enabling artisans to repair homes, pay school fees and feed and clothe their families. With steady income comes better nutrition, improved education and access to healthcare. Heart of Haiti also offers new opportunities for artists to collaborate with US designers, strengthening artisan associations and inspiring and energizing their communities. Men and women are working together, gaining confidence and hope for the future. Master artisans who planned to leave the country are now staying behind to train the next generation. The tradition of rich and unique Haitian art lives on… through the generosity of many like you.

Why not celebrate with Macy's and Shop for a Better World by checking out their Heart of Haiti collection? Here are a few a few of my favorite pieces:

View the Shop for a Better World/ Heart of Haiti Collection in its entirety (including items added just for Spring)!

Because I love to share some great deals with you, Clever Girls has offered a special discount to Frugal Southern Living readers! Just enter CLEVERGIRLS at checkout and you'll receive a 15% discount when you purchase items from the Heart of Haiti collection. NOTE: The discount is only valid from may 3 thru May 8, 2011, so be sure to order during those dates in order to get your discount!

Our church has been raising funds to help build homes over in Haiti. To build a home, it costs about $2,500 and we've been able to build 4 homes so far! Our pastor also announced last week that they are looking at possibly doing a missionary trip next year to Haiti. What a special opportunity to be able to help, give back and minister to those affected in Haiti!

Frugal Southern Living Disclaimer: I was selected for this very special “CleverHaiti” opportunity by Clever Girls Collective, which endorses Blog With Integrity. All opinions are my own. I did not receive any monetary compensation. However, I will receive a complimentary Heart of Haiti Project Heart Necklace for sharing this project with my readers. Opinions in this review are my honest and unbiased thoughts of this project and yours may vary.

FREE Customized Mother's Day Card (including Shipping!)

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 08:37:00 +0000

Awesomeness! I LOVE Tiny Prints! They are always offering great promotions, including FREE one's like this Mother's Day offer :)

"Like" Tiny Prints on Facebook and you'll receive a code to use on their website. You can then create one personalized card (including photo cards) on thier website for FREE!

Here's the one I created for the girls to give my Mom for Mother's Day (just hoping she doesn't pay attention to this post!) Mom, if you see this => ACT SURPRISED when the girls give it to you LOL ;)

Thanks, Raining Hot Coupons

Aerie Stores: $10 off $10 Purchase = FREE

noreply@blogger.com (Heather Silver) — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 05:49:00 +0000

Wowza! Hurry and grab your coupon over on Aerie's Facebook page for $10 off any $10 purchase. The coupon is valid only in-stores thru Sunday, May 1st.

Try shopping clearanced items, accessories or panties and you should score something for FREE!

NOTE: Valid for one-time use from April 28, 2011 thru May 1, 2011 only in Aerie stores. NOT valid at Aerie.com. You must present the original coupon (no copies) to receive discount. Only one coupon or discount of any type may be used at any time. This coupon is not redeemable for cash, nor is it valid toward any previously purchased merchandise or the purchase of gift cards.

Thanks, Raining Hot Coupons!