Thursday, September 29, 2011
New Button Added!
Check out the new button added to the bottom of our sidebar on the right side of our page. This is a link to a great site called "I Heart The Mart".
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Giving & Teaching Empathy doesn't have to be expensive
Believe it or not...the holidays are right around the corner.
Today I stumbled upon a cool deal for myself and someone less fortunate than us.
Winn Dixie has their brand of a variety of canned veggies on sale this week at $6 for 10 cans.
You will also receive $.10 in Fuel Perks for each set of 10 cans that you purchase, with no limit. I was very happy to fill my cart with 20 cans because they are staples, they store well, and they make
perfect additions to our annual classroom Food Drive Baskets.
(Don't worry, I didn't clear the shelves, they have pallets full in different areas of the store)
So for $12 I can feed my family, foster altruism in my students, help make an unfortunate family's holidays a little better, and subtract $.20 a gallon from my next fill-up!
I love it when a plan comes together!
Del Monte "Teacher Monday"
Click this link to participate
"In an effort to get school children across North America to eat healthier, Del Monte Fresh Produce is holding its second annual "Teacher Monday: Cash for Classrooms" online contest.
"Teacher Monday: Cash for Classrooms" encourages kindergarten thru 12th grade school teachers to incorporate healthy eating and living messages into classroom activities. Sixty teachers will win a total of $1,000 in cash to purchase school supplies and fresh fruit for their students. Several winners will also get a Del Monte Fresh® Field Day event for their school in which the entire student body will enjoy a day of Del Monte fresh fruit, games and fun activities."
"Teacher Monday: Cash for Classrooms" encourages kindergarten thru 12th grade school teachers to incorporate healthy eating and living messages into classroom activities. Sixty teachers will win a total of $1,000 in cash to purchase school supplies and fresh fruit for their students. Several winners will also get a Del Monte Fresh® Field Day event for their school in which the entire student body will enjoy a day of Del Monte fresh fruit, games and fun activities."
-Del Monte
Bring it Sniffles! I'm ready!
I certainly cannot speak for everyone but between my students and my biological children, I am surrounded by snotty noses and projectile sneezing! With Flu season right around the corner, I fear the worst. So I was tickled to see this coupon for $1 off of one Robitussin product. I used it at Walmart on a Robitussin To Go Single Dose and it was FREE!
Little Debbie Coupon
Thanks SouthernSavers.com!
Coming Soon...
We have decided to expand!
As you know, here at Simple Savvy Savers we are real people with real families. We are trying to save money and cut corners wherever we can. We strive to give our families a better quality of life and give to others in need. Sadly, working in a school, there are often times when students have basic needs that are unmet. That is where we, and our bargains, step in. We are often able to supply kids with clothes, basic grooming supplies, and even more often, food.
This is just one of the many topics that we will be broaching in our new sister blog "Educator Incubator". We will offer tips for teachers on how to save money for their own families as well as how to give back to kids in need. Our site will offer everything from classroom decorating tips to anecdotes. The blog will be a fun-filled place where teachers can go for inspiration and to share a laugh. Don't worry though, Simple Savvy Savers will still be alive and well!
We will be adding a link to our site soon. Stay tuned for more details!
Extreme vs Realistic Couponing
With the state of today's economy, we are all trying to save money. Everyone knows the basics. Cut back on cable, shop for better insurance rates, ditch the landline phone, ect.. Couponing is quickly becoming one of the more popular ways to help slash expenses. Let's face it, groceries and household items are a huge monthly expenditures. Saving on these items means putting a significant amount of money back in the family budget.
The majority of those of us concerned with saving money have seen at least one television show about extreme couponing. These shows lead people to believe that it is possible to reduce their entire grocery bill to only a few dollars. While this concept seems like a dream-come-true, it is not realistically possible.
It is possible to buy large quantities of select items for mere pennies on the dollar. However, purchasing enough grocery and household items to sustain a family at 90% + off is virtually impossible. The television shows and people who stockpile huge quantities of products forget to take one important fact into account. Families need variety. Kids will not eat the same products day in and day out just because you got a fantastic deal. Not only is variety an issue, but people are buying items that will go to waste. Many items in the large stockpiles expire before you can ever use them.
Saving money and stocking up on things your family uses is great! Just remember, the amazing savings stories that you see or hear about, are not realistic. Here at Simple Savvy Savers, we believe in real life scenarios of real families saving real money.
The majority of those of us concerned with saving money have seen at least one television show about extreme couponing. These shows lead people to believe that it is possible to reduce their entire grocery bill to only a few dollars. While this concept seems like a dream-come-true, it is not realistically possible.
It is possible to buy large quantities of select items for mere pennies on the dollar. However, purchasing enough grocery and household items to sustain a family at 90% + off is virtually impossible. The television shows and people who stockpile huge quantities of products forget to take one important fact into account. Families need variety. Kids will not eat the same products day in and day out just because you got a fantastic deal. Not only is variety an issue, but people are buying items that will go to waste. Many items in the large stockpiles expire before you can ever use them.
Saving money and stocking up on things your family uses is great! Just remember, the amazing savings stories that you see or hear about, are not realistic. Here at Simple Savvy Savers, we believe in real life scenarios of real families saving real money.
Hurry to the CVS Facebook page!!
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Kmart
Don't forget to check your local Kmart to see if they are doubling coupons up to $0.99 this week. It is supposed to be nation-wide; however, there are always stores that choose not to participate. It's worth a try!
Publix
Publix will have some great BOGO deals this week! Here is a quick rundown of some of the best bargains:
Aunt Jemima Pancakes or French Toast - BOGO $2.69
$1/1 coupon available on facebook
$0.35 - final price
Green Giant Veggies 7 - 10 oz. - BOGO $1.99
$1/4 coupon available on Betty Crocker website
$0.75 - final price
Kraft BBQ Sauce - BOGO $1.33
$1/2 coupon from Kraft Food and Family Magazine
$0.17 - final price
Nabisco 100 Calorie Packs or Snackwells Cookies, Brownie Bites, or Caramel Popcorn - BOGO $3.19
(3.7 - 7.75 oz)
$1/1 coupon from Nabiscoworld website
Ragu Pasta Sauce 16 - 24 oz. - BOGO $2.19 (excludes organic)
Free Mueller's pasta when you buy two Ragu pasta sauces coupon from previous insert
$1/2 Ragu pasta sauces at makinglifebetter website
Aunt Jemima Pancakes or French Toast - BOGO $2.69
$1/1 coupon available on facebook
$0.35 - final price
Green Giant Veggies 7 - 10 oz. - BOGO $1.99
$1/4 coupon available on Betty Crocker website
$0.75 - final price
Kraft BBQ Sauce - BOGO $1.33
$1/2 coupon from Kraft Food and Family Magazine
$0.17 - final price
Nabisco 100 Calorie Packs or Snackwells Cookies, Brownie Bites, or Caramel Popcorn - BOGO $3.19
(3.7 - 7.75 oz)
$1/1 coupon from Nabiscoworld website
Ragu Pasta Sauce 16 - 24 oz. - BOGO $2.19 (excludes organic)
Free Mueller's pasta when you buy two Ragu pasta sauces coupon from previous insert
$1/2 Ragu pasta sauces at makinglifebetter website
Monday, September 26, 2011
Great Giveaway
Allure and one of our favorite companies, Proctor and Gamble, have teamed up for an awesome giveaway. Each day they will give away full-size products to the first 10,000 people who register. The Giveaway begins each day at noon. The list is as follows:
Monday - Pantene Hair Solutions (damage repair ampoules) The 10,000 limit has been reached for this.
Tuesday - CoverGirl Lash Blast Volume Blasting Mascara
Wednesday - Secret Natural Mineral
Thursday - Olay Collections Luscious Embrace Body Bar With Massaging Design
Friday - Olay Essential Complete All Day UV Moisturizer
New Buttons
Just wanted to let you know that we have added two new buttons to our blog. These buttons will connect you to two fantastic sites, "I Heart Publix" and "Totally Target". Two of our favorite places to shop! The buttons are located near the bottom of our sidebar on the right of the page. Be sure to check them out : )
Walgreens Freebie!!!
Get a free 8 x 10 photo collage at Walgreens.com when you enter code COLLAGE at chekcout.
Great gift idea! Hurry this offer expires 9/30/11.
Great gift idea! Hurry this offer expires 9/30/11.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Recipe Roundup
Just in time for football season, a new dip recipe. Be sure to try this, it is a big hit at my house. It can easily be doubled.
If you have any easy go-to recipes, please email them to us at simplesavvysavers@gmail.com. You can also leave them as a comment. Either way, we would love to hear from you!!!
If you have any easy go-to recipes, please email them to us at simplesavvysavers@gmail.com. You can also leave them as a comment. Either way, we would love to hear from you!!!
Delightful Deals!!
Although coupon inserts were not chock full of deals this week, there are a few bargains. Here is a quick rundown:
Target:
Nivea Body Wash is on sale for $3
- if you have a $2 off coupon from previous inserts and the Target $1 off this could be FREE
Banana Boat Sunscreen is $4
- if you have a $4 off coupon from previous insert, this item will be $0.99
CVS:
Campbell's Chicken Noodle, Tomato Soup, or Swanson Chicken Broth is $0.59 per can
- use a $0.40 (printable) off three coupon and the price is $0.45 each
Walgreen's:
Haribo Gummy Candy is $0.39 after coupon from previous insert.
Target:
Nivea Body Wash is on sale for $3
- if you have a $2 off coupon from previous inserts and the Target $1 off this could be FREE
Banana Boat Sunscreen is $4
- if you have a $4 off coupon from previous insert, this item will be $0.99
CVS:
Campbell's Chicken Noodle, Tomato Soup, or Swanson Chicken Broth is $0.59 per can
- use a $0.40 (printable) off three coupon and the price is $0.45 each
Walgreen's:
Haribo Gummy Candy is $0.39 after coupon from previous insert.
Backpack Bargain
The Baby Bump has an awesome deal right now but you better act quick!
You can buy a pink camo or zebra backpack with personalization for $9.99 (reg. $19.99)
Oh and did I mention that they have FREE shipping on any order! Oh yeah!
Use the code COMPLETETB to get 15% off, making it $8.49.
If you know my 7 year old, you know that I had to buy the Zebra with Hot Pink embroidery. But Shhhh! Don't tell her because this going under the Christmas tree.
Saturday, September 24, 2011
Last Minute Leftovers
Ok, my husband and I stumbled across a fantastic deal tonight. While walking past the bakery section around 5:30 p.m., we noticed boxes of items with orange price stickers. There were boxes of croissants, 4 packs of huge blueberry muffins, and apple turnovers. They were all marked $0.99!!!!!!!! Of course we had to grab a few of these bargains. The best part came when we looped back around the store to pick up a forgotten item. Sitting on the same bakery counter were whole cakes! We got a German Chocolate cake for $3.99. This is one of their premium cakes. Truly a phenomenal deal.
This is not the first time I have found a bargain at the Winn Dixie bakery. Every evening around 5:00, they announce that their doughnuts in the case will be $1.49 per dozen. You get to pick any kind you want. Yum!
Be sure to check the bakery at your local Winn Dixie to see if they offer these types of deals.
This is not the first time I have found a bargain at the Winn Dixie bakery. Every evening around 5:00, they announce that their doughnuts in the case will be $1.49 per dozen. You get to pick any kind you want. Yum!
Be sure to check the bakery at your local Winn Dixie to see if they offer these types of deals.
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Old Navy
Old Navy is having a great sale!!!!! BOGO 75% off. Make sure to stop by your local store and check out the bargains.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Saving Strategy
A crazy day at work. Running the kids around to extracurricular activities. Errands. You make it home and enter the kitchen to cook dinner, only to discover that you forgot to thaw anything for dinner. Your only options are takeout or a quick trip to the grocery store. Either way, it is an unexpected expense.
We almost always have our coupons on hand. However, coupons do not make a significant difference in the price of takeout. Sure they help, but it is still an unplanned expense.
A quick trip to the grocery store is is also unexpected, but usually the better of the two options. You must be careful. Quick grocery trips are often for items that you do not have coupons for. This is where expenses add up quickly. In this situation your best savings strategy is to shop the sales ad. If bread is on sale have sandwiches. Maybe chicken breasts are one of the big sale items of the week. Use a quick go-to chicken recipe. Regardless of what you decide to make, your choice will usually be considerably less than ordering takeout!
The next time you have an "Uh-oh, I forgot to thaw something for dinner!" moment, be sure to stop and weigh your savings options.
We almost always have our coupons on hand. However, coupons do not make a significant difference in the price of takeout. Sure they help, but it is still an unplanned expense.
A quick trip to the grocery store is is also unexpected, but usually the better of the two options. You must be careful. Quick grocery trips are often for items that you do not have coupons for. This is where expenses add up quickly. In this situation your best savings strategy is to shop the sales ad. If bread is on sale have sandwiches. Maybe chicken breasts are one of the big sale items of the week. Use a quick go-to chicken recipe. Regardless of what you decide to make, your choice will usually be considerably less than ordering takeout!
The next time you have an "Uh-oh, I forgot to thaw something for dinner!" moment, be sure to stop and weigh your savings options.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Do you need help converting a friend into a couponer?
As some of you may know, Marnie and I are both teachers. We are also both married to teachers and we all work in the same school. We are very happy here. My husband is also the Head Coach of one of our sports teams. For those of you without one of these in your family, they are very "manly" people. We are using our lunch periods trying to convert all the young assistant coaches into couponing, against my husband's wishes. We have already convinced our cheerleading coach to start (wooooHooo!) couponing.
Tip #1 - Choose a really good deal that is simple, to let them test the waters.
I gave the Cheer Coach a sales ad for CVS & a coupon, and a clear explanation. Once she walked in, purchased her lipstick with the coupon, had all of her money returned to her in Extra Care Bucks gift certificates, and realized that it worked exactly the way we said it would....she was elated!
Tip #2 - Gather & share what you have that they may be interested in purchasing. I have no use for baby diapers or tequilia, but I know some people who do. You can have them flip through your coupons and place sticky notes on items that they us as well. I find it helpful to have someone make me a list of items that they buy every week and start collecting a pile for them to try.
Tip #3 - If this doesn't work, I do not know what will. Save your receipt from a really good trip. I use my Publix receipts for this situation. Show them the bottom where the register automatically adds up the coupon savings & store savings. Most cannot resist starring at those numbers & wishing their grocery bills were $70 or more less.
Tip #1 - Choose a really good deal that is simple, to let them test the waters.
I gave the Cheer Coach a sales ad for CVS & a coupon, and a clear explanation. Once she walked in, purchased her lipstick with the coupon, had all of her money returned to her in Extra Care Bucks gift certificates, and realized that it worked exactly the way we said it would....she was elated!
Tip #2 - Gather & share what you have that they may be interested in purchasing. I have no use for baby diapers or tequilia, but I know some people who do. You can have them flip through your coupons and place sticky notes on items that they us as well. I find it helpful to have someone make me a list of items that they buy every week and start collecting a pile for them to try.
Tip #3 - If this doesn't work, I do not know what will. Save your receipt from a really good trip. I use my Publix receipts for this situation. Show them the bottom where the register automatically adds up the coupon savings & store savings. Most cannot resist starring at those numbers & wishing their grocery bills were $70 or more less.
Publix 9-21
This week's Publix ad is nothing fantastic. However, there are a few bargains worth checking out.
BOGO
Perdue Chicken Breast Nuggets (some of you may have coupons for these)
Fresh Express Salad Blends
Lender's Bagels
Pompeian 32oz olive oil
Wish Bone dressing
A-1 steak sauce
Pepperidge Farm Whole Grain Bread
BOGO
Perdue Chicken Breast Nuggets (some of you may have coupons for these)
Fresh Express Salad Blends
Lender's Bagels
Pompeian 32oz olive oil
Wish Bone dressing
A-1 steak sauce
Pepperidge Farm Whole Grain Bread
Winn Dixie
Tomorrow is the start of the new grocery ad at Winn Dixie. They do not have an abundance of good deals this week, but there are a few worth checking out.
BOGO
Sanderson Farms Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenders
Pork Chops
Frozen Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenders
Boneless Pork Loin Ribs
Armour Meatballs (these are great for shortcuts in meals)
48 oz Pompeian Olive Oil
Winn Dixie seasonings, gravies, and sauces
Select Old El Paso products
All liquid or Surf powder detergent
These are just a few of the deals that will be available. Be sure to check your local ad online before your shopping trip.
BOGO
Sanderson Farms Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenders
Pork Chops
Frozen Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenders
Boneless Pork Loin Ribs
Armour Meatballs (these are great for shortcuts in meals)
48 oz Pompeian Olive Oil
Winn Dixie seasonings, gravies, and sauces
Select Old El Paso products
All liquid or Surf powder detergent
These are just a few of the deals that will be available. Be sure to check your local ad online before your shopping trip.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Random Resources
First, let me apologize for the pics in yesterday's posts. Not sure what is going on. When I entered the pics into the computer to save, they were facing the correct way. However, when I uploaded them from the file to the post, they flipped in the opposite direction. No matter how hard I try, they will not face the correct direction! I will continue to try and repair this.
Be sure to gather your Surf laundry detergent coupons. I ran across a decent deal while in Target this weekend. Surf, 144 load, was priced at $10.99. I had one $2.00 off manufacturer coupon and combined it with a Target $1.50 off. Total price - $7.99
Check your Walgreen's candy aisle. 21 oz. bags of butterscotch candy discs were $0.45 at my Walgreen's yesterday!
Remember that CVS has Dawn dishwashing liquid for $0.99 this weeks. Combine that with a $0.50 manufacturer coupon and total is $0.44!!!
Haircuts at Cost Cutters are $12 onTuesdays!!!!
Be sure to gather your Surf laundry detergent coupons. I ran across a decent deal while in Target this weekend. Surf, 144 load, was priced at $10.99. I had one $2.00 off manufacturer coupon and combined it with a Target $1.50 off. Total price - $7.99
Check your Walgreen's candy aisle. 21 oz. bags of butterscotch candy discs were $0.45 at my Walgreen's yesterday!
Remember that CVS has Dawn dishwashing liquid for $0.99 this weeks. Combine that with a $0.50 manufacturer coupon and total is $0.44!!!
Haircuts at Cost Cutters are $12 onTuesdays!!!!
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Walgreens Deals
Hurry to your local Walgreen's for some great deals!
Sale price $4.99 - $4.99 RR = FREE!
$6.99 - $2 RR -$2 off coupon that I picked up at doctor's office = $2.99
Sale price 2 for $6 - $2 RR - 2 $1 off coupons = $1 each
Sale price $4.99 - $4.99 RR = FREE!
$6.99 - $2 RR -$2 off coupon that I picked up at doctor's office = $2.99
Sale price $.99 - $.50 coupon = $.49 each. (limit 3)
Sale price 2 for $6 - $2 RR - 2 $1 off coupons = $1 each
CVS Bargains This Week
These are a couple of bargains that are available this week at CVS:
B1G1 free = 2 for $3.19 - 2 $1 off coupons = $.60 each
Sale price $4.99 - $2.00 ECB - $1.50 off coupon = $1.49
B1G1 free = 2 for $3.19 - 2 $1 off coupons = $.60 each
Coupons!
Found Ben and Jerry's and Bryer's manufacturer's coupons in an odd place today - Tom Thumb. Our Tom Thumb stocks Kroger groceries and that may be the reason for some of the coupons we find there. Today we found $1.00 off coupons for Ben and Jerry's and Bryer's pint size products. Sondra (the other owner of this blog), said that last week's Walgreens ad had a store coupon for $1.00 off Ben and Jerry's. The coupon is still valid. This brings the price to $0.99!!!!!
Target Deal Alert!!!!
Target has a special offer on select Crest toothpaste. Buy one Crest toothpaste valued at $2.99 or more and get a free Oral-B toothbrush (select varieties). Some of you may still have $1.00 off Crest toothpaste coupons. My Target also let me use coupons on the toothbrushes too!!!!
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Saturday Savings
Bargains were abundant today! I have a lot of great deals to report after my shopping expedition this afternoon.
First I will start with a phenomenal deal that my husband and I found at GNC last night. We found Met-rx Big 100 bars marked down to 75% off of their sales price. We combined a coupon with the sale and walked out of the store with eight bars for $2.57!!!!!
Today's deals were pretty awesome too! My first stop was Target (of course). I guess they finally decided to clearance the school supplies at 75%. I bought :
40 spiral notebooks
4 Tink folders
1 Hello Kitty binder
3 packs of notebook paper
2 Cars 2 die cast cars
1 Monopoly Build-It game
_____________________________________
My out of pocket total was - $6.76
The next stop was Publix. I didn't do as well as I had hoped, but it wasn't horrible. Here is what I got:
2 pkg. Pepperidge Farm Milano cookies
2 -2pks Country Crock spread
3 pks Hillshire Fram deli meat
2 pks Quaker chewy granola bars
2 pks Pepperidge Farm deli flats
2 pks Old El Paso taco seasoning
2 bottle Ken's salad dressing
1 box 9 ct Bagel Bites
2 boxes Pillsb. frozen mini pancakes
4 cans Pringles
2 bananas
57 Met-rx and Pure Protein bars
______________________________________
My total out-of-pocket - $79.47 Savings $88.33 ($69.10 in coupons, $19.23 store savings)
Have you found any good deals this weekend? We would love to hear from you! Leave us pics of your bargains!
First I will start with a phenomenal deal that my husband and I found at GNC last night. We found Met-rx Big 100 bars marked down to 75% off of their sales price. We combined a coupon with the sale and walked out of the store with eight bars for $2.57!!!!!
Today's deals were pretty awesome too! My first stop was Target (of course). I guess they finally decided to clearance the school supplies at 75%. I bought :
4 Tink folders
1 Hello Kitty binder
3 packs of notebook paper
2 Cars 2 die cast cars
1 Monopoly Build-It game
_____________________________________
My out of pocket total was - $6.76
The next stop was Publix. I didn't do as well as I had hoped, but it wasn't horrible. Here is what I got:
2 pkg. Pepperidge Farm Milano cookies
2 -2pks Country Crock spread
3 pks Hillshire Fram deli meat
2 pks Quaker chewy granola bars
2 pks Pepperidge Farm deli flats
2 pks Old El Paso taco seasoning
2 bottle Ken's salad dressing
1 box 9 ct Bagel Bites
2 boxes Pillsb. frozen mini pancakes
4 cans Pringles
2 bananas
57 Met-rx and Pure Protein bars
______________________________________
My total out-of-pocket - $79.47 Savings $88.33 ($69.10 in coupons, $19.23 store savings)
Have you found any good deals this weekend? We would love to hear from you! Leave us pics of your bargains!
Saturday Shopping
Heading out for a shopping trip this afternoon. Hope to get some great deals. I will post as soon as I return from my adventure!
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Halloween Help
October is right around the corner. Which, in case your kiddos have not already reminded you, Halloween will be here soon. Therefore, they need costumes!
As we all know, pre-made costumes are expensive. Unless your child will continue to use the outfit for dress-up play, ready-made is not a good bargain. Constructing a costume can be quite easy and inexpensive. We have some great tips for you!
First, be sure to make use of coupons from your local craft stores. Michael's almost always has a "40% off any one regularly priced item" coupon every Sunday in their ad. Hobby Lobby often offers a printable discount on some of their merchandise also. Use these every week to piece together your little goblins disguise! (Don't forget to ask your friends and family for their unused coupons.)
Now costume ideas:
Clown- Yarn hair, baggy sweatsuit decorated with cut-out polka dots, big floppy boots (spray paint to match if necessary), sponge ball for nose (often found at craft stores).
Dorothy from Wizard of Oz - blue gingham dress, red sparkly shoes (spray paint and glitter), braid hair.
Cowboy - jeans, plaid shirt, bandanna, gun holster from toy department (may also be borrowed).
Pirate - Old pants that are too short (cut few inches below knees and cut into strips all the way around), big white shirt tucked into pants, eye patch (party store), bandanna, clip-on earring.
Robot
Disney Channel Star
Pod of grapes
Mummy
These are just a few ideas for inexpensive Halloween costumes. If you need any more ideas, or would like to contribute an idea, please leave a comment. We would love to hear from you!!!
As we all know, pre-made costumes are expensive. Unless your child will continue to use the outfit for dress-up play, ready-made is not a good bargain. Constructing a costume can be quite easy and inexpensive. We have some great tips for you!
First, be sure to make use of coupons from your local craft stores. Michael's almost always has a "40% off any one regularly priced item" coupon every Sunday in their ad. Hobby Lobby often offers a printable discount on some of their merchandise also. Use these every week to piece together your little goblins disguise! (Don't forget to ask your friends and family for their unused coupons.)
Now costume ideas:
Clown- Yarn hair, baggy sweatsuit decorated with cut-out polka dots, big floppy boots (spray paint to match if necessary), sponge ball for nose (often found at craft stores).
Dorothy from Wizard of Oz - blue gingham dress, red sparkly shoes (spray paint and glitter), braid hair.
Cowboy - jeans, plaid shirt, bandanna, gun holster from toy department (may also be borrowed).
Pirate - Old pants that are too short (cut few inches below knees and cut into strips all the way around), big white shirt tucked into pants, eye patch (party store), bandanna, clip-on earring.
Robot
Disney Channel Star
Pod of grapes
Mummy
These are just a few ideas for inexpensive Halloween costumes. If you need any more ideas, or would like to contribute an idea, please leave a comment. We would love to hear from you!!!
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Coupon Clipping
Coupons. You get them in our Sunday papers. You get them from "blinkies" in the grocery store. You even print them on our computers. There are many different ways to get coupons. However, did you know that you can actually pay someone to clip coupons from weekly inserts and mail them to you? That's right. This cool little invention is called a Coupon Clipping Service. These services are a quick, time-saving way of getting the coupons you need. Not only can you purchase coupons from Sunday's inserts, but you can purchase coupons that may not be found in your area. Another advantage of ordering coupons this way is quantity. While you may purchase as many Sunday papers as you want, that can get expensive. Aren't expenses what we are trying to cut?
There are drawbacks to the service. Coupons often sell out quickly. The biggest drawback is shipping time. Unless the sale lasts longer than one week, you are taking a risk by waiting for the coupons to arrive by mail. Some clipping services mail things quickly. However, things often happen between the coupons being sent and their arrival at your home.
If you have time to wait for your coupons to arrive, then this service can be a great alternative to buying newspapers and spending the time cutting and sorting.
Don't forget that the new grocery ads were released today! Be sure to check them out. Publix has some great deals this week! Let us know what you find!
There are drawbacks to the service. Coupons often sell out quickly. The biggest drawback is shipping time. Unless the sale lasts longer than one week, you are taking a risk by waiting for the coupons to arrive by mail. Some clipping services mail things quickly. However, things often happen between the coupons being sent and their arrival at your home.
If you have time to wait for your coupons to arrive, then this service can be a great alternative to buying newspapers and spending the time cutting and sorting.
Don't forget that the new grocery ads were released today! Be sure to check them out. Publix has some great deals this week! Let us know what you find!
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Grocery Goldmine
Wow! The sale at Publix is awesome this week!!!! Tons of BOGO. I am super excited about grocery shopping this weekend. I am planning a big trip and this will take some careful planning. If you have any Pepperidge Farm cookie coupons, hang on to them. I have one word for you - Milanos! General Mills cereals (select items) will be as low as $0.74 with coupons. Borden singles, Bird's Eye Voila! meals, Honey Maid Grahams, and many more items will be BOGO this week. Be sure to check their ad!
Not sure about the Winn Dixie ad yet. Hopefully, they will give Publix some competition.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Stockpile Standards
Before we get into our topic of the day, let's take a look at the bargain that Sondra found at Publix. Sure deodorant is on sale BOGO $2.69. That was a good deal, but add $1 off coupons and it becomes a fantastic deal!!! That is $0.35 each!!! Of course she could not stop at just one deal. She bought a total of eight deodorants (one was left out of the pic).
Now, on to my question. What are your stockpile standards? Do you buy just enough to get by until the next shopping trip? Do you buy as many of the sale items as possible?
Personally, I find myself purchasing amounts somewhere in the middle of the two amounts. If the deal is fantastic, like the deodorant, I would buy as many as I possibly could without clearing the shelves. I firmly believe in equal bargain opportunities for everyone. I do not have a stockpile that resembles anything seen on the television couponing show, unless you count eight boxes of tissues and six trial size packs of Cascade gel packs. Stockpiling can be helpful, especially in today's economy. Many people have proven this by relying on their stockpile during hard economic times. It seems to me, the main issue is people who purchase items that they, nor anyone they know, will ever use. Accumulating mass quantities of items that you will never use just seems wasteful. For instance, if your family does not use Gain detergent because someone in the group has any allergy to it. Yet you purchase it anyway because it was a great deal. That, to me, is wasteful. There are, however, couponers that make these purchases and donate these types of items to charities. Donating these items is a great idea!
What does your stockpile look like? What is your idea of "stocking up"? Send us pics! Leave us a comment. We would love to hear from you!!!
Now, on to my question. What are your stockpile standards? Do you buy just enough to get by until the next shopping trip? Do you buy as many of the sale items as possible?
Personally, I find myself purchasing amounts somewhere in the middle of the two amounts. If the deal is fantastic, like the deodorant, I would buy as many as I possibly could without clearing the shelves. I firmly believe in equal bargain opportunities for everyone. I do not have a stockpile that resembles anything seen on the television couponing show, unless you count eight boxes of tissues and six trial size packs of Cascade gel packs. Stockpiling can be helpful, especially in today's economy. Many people have proven this by relying on their stockpile during hard economic times. It seems to me, the main issue is people who purchase items that they, nor anyone they know, will ever use. Accumulating mass quantities of items that you will never use just seems wasteful. For instance, if your family does not use Gain detergent because someone in the group has any allergy to it. Yet you purchase it anyway because it was a great deal. That, to me, is wasteful. There are, however, couponers that make these purchases and donate these types of items to charities. Donating these items is a great idea!
What does your stockpile look like? What is your idea of "stocking up"? Send us pics! Leave us a comment. We would love to hear from you!!!
Saturday, September 10, 2011
Calling all teachers!
We have a couple of bargain resources for you. First, for those of you teaching government, sign up with C-SPAN classroom and get an electoral vote map for FREE!
Many of you may not be aware that educators (teachers, paras, administrators, guidance) are eligible for many discounts nationwide. You can find a compiled, and frequently updated, list of discounts at http://www.myeducationdiscount.com/ Make sure to stop by and take a look. This site is great!!!
I will post both of these bargains on our "Teacher Feature" tab.
We have a couple of bargain resources for you. First, for those of you teaching government, sign up with C-SPAN classroom and get an electoral vote map for FREE!
Many of you may not be aware that educators (teachers, paras, administrators, guidance) are eligible for many discounts nationwide. You can find a compiled, and frequently updated, list of discounts at http://www.myeducationdiscount.com/ Make sure to stop by and take a look. This site is great!!!
I will post both of these bargains on our "Teacher Feature" tab.
Friday, September 9, 2011
Coupon Insert Insight
Alright everyone, make sure you get lots of sleep Saturday night because you have to be up early Sunday morning. Rumor has it that there will be three coupon inserts in Sunday's paper!!!!
Let the savings begin!
My binder is looking a little sparse. I am excited about getting some new coupons. Hopefully they will be good!
Let the savings begin!
My binder is looking a little sparse. I am excited about getting some new coupons. Hopefully they will be good!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Teacher Feature Updated
I just updated our "Teacher Feature" tab. Stop by and take a look!
Our Target school supplies are still at 30% with the exception of a few lunch boxes. Have any other Targets gone beyond 30%? Leave us a comment and let us know. We would really love to hear from you!
Our Target school supplies are still at 30% with the exception of a few lunch boxes. Have any other Targets gone beyond 30%? Leave us a comment and let us know. We would really love to hear from you!
Target Tally
I had to make a quick trip to Target because my daughter's binder broke. Wow, three weeks into school. That has to be some kind of record. I am just going to pretend that it was all of the hard work she has been doing. Yeah, that's it. I will go with that one.
Anyway, while I was in Target I did my usual clearance check. They finally decided to mark down some of the toiletry clearance!!
My husband happened upon some Pepsi Max coupons ($0.55 off) the other day and noticed that Target had them on sale for $0.99. Unfortunately, they were out of the 2 liters. He did get a rain check though!
Here is what we got:
6 trial size packs of Tide laundry detergent
2 2packs Colgate 360 toothbrushes
2 Crest toothpastes with extra trial size inside
1 3 ring binder
__________________
Grand total before coupons $17.06 Total out of pocket after coupons $10.56!!!!
My deals were good, but the best part of the day happened before we went into Target. My daughter announced from the backseat "Hey Mommy, I have my coupon binder ready to go". She had put together a binder for herself and Dad to share. I am so proud! My smart little shopper is prepared.
Anyway, while I was in Target I did my usual clearance check. They finally decided to mark down some of the toiletry clearance!!
My husband happened upon some Pepsi Max coupons ($0.55 off) the other day and noticed that Target had them on sale for $0.99. Unfortunately, they were out of the 2 liters. He did get a rain check though!
Here is what we got:
6 trial size packs of Tide laundry detergent
2 2packs Colgate 360 toothbrushes
2 Crest toothpastes with extra trial size inside
1 3 ring binder
__________________
Grand total before coupons $17.06 Total out of pocket after coupons $10.56!!!!
My deals were good, but the best part of the day happened before we went into Target. My daughter announced from the backseat "Hey Mommy, I have my coupon binder ready to go". She had put together a binder for herself and Dad to share. I am so proud! My smart little shopper is prepared.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Prosperous Trip To Publix!!
I just got back from Publix. This was just a quick trip for Goldfish snacks, but I came out with a few other items.
Here is what I got:
10 bags of Goldfish snacks
2 9 oz Ken's dressing
4 boxes Uncle Ben's Boil In The Bag Brown Rice
5 cans Chunky Baked Potato soup
____________________________________
Grand Total Before Discounts $46.72
I paid $20.47
I saved $26.25!!!!!!!!!
Here is what I got:
10 bags of Goldfish snacks
2 9 oz Ken's dressing
4 boxes Uncle Ben's Boil In The Bag Brown Rice
5 cans Chunky Baked Potato soup
____________________________________
Grand Total Before Discounts $46.72
I paid $20.47
I saved $26.25!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Waiting For Wednesday!
Ok Savers, you know what tomorrow is. My favorite day of the week, Wednesday. That means new grocery ads!
Winn Dixie seems to have a lot of BOGO meat deals this week. Chuck roast, sirloin steaks, pork ribs, the list goes on! There are a lot of other deals too.
I am very excited about one deal in particular at Publix. That's right, it is time for Pepperidge Farm goldfish 10 for $10!!!! Although my kids are older, they still love these for snacks. We always stock up when Publix offers this bargain.
Another deal that I want to share with you is usually run approximately once per week. Coastalcontacts.com. This site offers glasses for really low prices. I have seen glasses as low as $10. The frames are nice (often name brand). They have a large variety to choose from too. "Like" them on Facebook and watch for their next offer. Make sure you have a copy of your prescription. You will need to give them all of the specifics so that your glasses will be correct. For those of you who wear glasses, this is a real bargain!!!
Everyone get a good night's sleep. You have some serious bargain shopping to do tomorrow!!!
Don't forget to thaw dinner for tomorrow.
Winn Dixie seems to have a lot of BOGO meat deals this week. Chuck roast, sirloin steaks, pork ribs, the list goes on! There are a lot of other deals too.
I am very excited about one deal in particular at Publix. That's right, it is time for Pepperidge Farm goldfish 10 for $10!!!! Although my kids are older, they still love these for snacks. We always stock up when Publix offers this bargain.
Another deal that I want to share with you is usually run approximately once per week. Coastalcontacts.com. This site offers glasses for really low prices. I have seen glasses as low as $10. The frames are nice (often name brand). They have a large variety to choose from too. "Like" them on Facebook and watch for their next offer. Make sure you have a copy of your prescription. You will need to give them all of the specifics so that your glasses will be correct. For those of you who wear glasses, this is a real bargain!!!
Everyone get a good night's sleep. You have some serious bargain shopping to do tomorrow!!!
Don't forget to thaw dinner for tomorrow.
Monday, September 5, 2011
Clearance - How Long Are You Willing To Wait?
Seeing all of the items being clearanced at Target this weekend made me wonder if other people have the same views of "clearance" that I do.
You see a toaster you like "clearanced" for 15% off. Do you buy it just because it is less than the original price, or wait to see if the price goes down more?
I only consider 50% and under to be a sale, not clearance. Therefore, I am willing to wait for the price to continue to drop on most things, depending on quantity. Are you willing to wait it out, or do you buy it the minute it is marked down from the original price? Please leave a comment or question. We would love to hear what you think is "clearance".
Recent blog updates - We have added a new tab called "Teacher Feature". The page will include budget-minded ideas for the classroom and homeschooling. Don't forget to check out our other tabs too! If you haven't been to our Facebook page, click on the link in our sidebar and "like" us. Take a minute to take our poll while you are there and leave us a comment. We would love to hear from you!!!!!
You see a toaster you like "clearanced" for 15% off. Do you buy it just because it is less than the original price, or wait to see if the price goes down more?
I only consider 50% and under to be a sale, not clearance. Therefore, I am willing to wait for the price to continue to drop on most things, depending on quantity. Are you willing to wait it out, or do you buy it the minute it is marked down from the original price? Please leave a comment or question. We would love to hear what you think is "clearance".
Recent blog updates - We have added a new tab called "Teacher Feature". The page will include budget-minded ideas for the classroom and homeschooling. Don't forget to check out our other tabs too! If you haven't been to our Facebook page, click on the link in our sidebar and "like" us. Take a minute to take our poll while you are there and leave us a comment. We would love to hear from you!!!!!
Sunday, September 4, 2011
Thank You!!
We want to thank everyone who helped us reach our 25 "likes" on our Facebook fan page : www.facebook.com/SimpleSavvySavers
Keep the likes going and let your friends know about us. We have a lot of plans for our blog and Facebook page.
Sorry to report that there were no coupons today because of the holiday weekend. This is normal. Hopefully we will have a good batch next weekend. I didn't get to look for bargains today due to the weather. We only ventured out to pick up dinner. We did use a coupon though!
I will leave you with one quick tip. Invest in a binder and some baseball card pages for your coupons. It will make any couponing you do a lot easier. You can also get binder dividers to organize them in a way that is logical for you. Personally, I place my categories in alphabetical order. Makes it easy for kids or husband to pick up my binder and find what they need.
Again, thank you for everything you did to help us reach our goal!!
Keep the likes going and let your friends know about us. We have a lot of plans for our blog and Facebook page.
Sorry to report that there were no coupons today because of the holiday weekend. This is normal. Hopefully we will have a good batch next weekend. I didn't get to look for bargains today due to the weather. We only ventured out to pick up dinner. We did use a coupon though!
I will leave you with one quick tip. Invest in a binder and some baseball card pages for your coupons. It will make any couponing you do a lot easier. You can also get binder dividers to organize them in a way that is logical for you. Personally, I place my categories in alphabetical order. Makes it easy for kids or husband to pick up my binder and find what they need.
Again, thank you for everything you did to help us reach our goal!!
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Bargain Bonanza!
My family had a blast bargain hunting today. I must say, it was nice to have the extra help. We found lots of great deals!
Here are our treasures:
Here are our treasures:
We spent a total of $50.65 today and this is what we got:
Wal-Mart
10 Met-rx protein bars - Regular price $1.96. We paid $0.96 each with coupon.
Sam's Club
5 large cans of white meat chicken. Regular price $9.99. We paid $7.99 due to special promotion.
Grocery Outlet
6 bags of pork rinds. Regular price $0.69. This was not a sale, just a phenomenal deal.
Publix
4 bags of Bugles snacks. Regular price $2.67 each. They were BOGO and we added $0.50 off coupon per bag.
4 bags of Chex Mix. Regular price $2.67 each. They were BOGO and we added $0.50 off coupon per bag.
4 Met-rx protein bars. Regular price $1.99. We paid $0.99 each with coupon.
20 2 liter Publix drinks. Regular price $0.93. We paid $0.50 each with store promotion.
1 box Publix Cocoa Crunch Cereal. Regular price $2.39. We paid $1.39 with coupon.
Target
3 cans Campbell's soup. Regular $0.68. We paid $0.35 each after coupon.
2 containers of Kraft Natural Parmesan Romano blend cheese. Regular price $3.99. We paid $1.39 each after coupon
2 Olay travel size bar soaps. Regular price $0.97. We paid $0.47 each after coupon.
2 full size 4 packs of Kleenex. Regular price approx $6.00. We paid $1.54 each after clearance and coupon.
Share your bargains with us!!! We would love to hear from you.
We will be adding some new features to our blog in the coming days. There will be a new tab dedicated just to budget family travel tips. There will also be couponing tips and lots of other fun information added to the site. Stay tuned for more details!
Friday, September 2, 2011
Great Stocking Stuffer Ideas!
Sorry for not posting last night. We had a high school football game to attend. My oldest is in band and they had their first performance. It is amazing, as a parent, to watch your child go from middle school band to high school. The progress is astounding. When you hear those first notes as they march onto the field for the first time - well, let me just say that I had chill bumps.
If you haven't checked the Target coupons lately, you might want to do so. There are five coupons for kids' games. They are $3, $4, and $5 off. These coupons are great. I used one of the $4 off any Scrabble game on a Scrabble Slam card game. My final price was under $2. Not bad for a stocking suffer. Each of the coupons lists a small variety of games that may be purchased. These items are great as stocking stuffers or as a little something extra to tie on another present.
If you have recently purchased, or plan to purchase any Nutri-Grain bars at Target, be sure to check the outside of the box to see if they have the offer from Disney's and Pixar's Cars. Inside each of these boxes is a coupon for a FREE die-cast car of your child's favorite Cars character with the purchase of two boxes of Nutri-Grain bars. If you purchased like I did, this is a real bargain. The bars were on sale last week for $2.50 per box and buy three get one box free. I combined the store offer with two "$1 off two boxes" coupons. Therefore, I only spent $5.50 on the cereal bars. Combined with the offer inside the box, this is a phenomenal deal. Four boxes of Nutri-Grain and two Cars die-cast for $5.50 is not bad for snacks and two Christmas presents!
If you haven't checked the Target coupons lately, you might want to do so. There are five coupons for kids' games. They are $3, $4, and $5 off. These coupons are great. I used one of the $4 off any Scrabble game on a Scrabble Slam card game. My final price was under $2. Not bad for a stocking suffer. Each of the coupons lists a small variety of games that may be purchased. These items are great as stocking stuffers or as a little something extra to tie on another present.
If you have recently purchased, or plan to purchase any Nutri-Grain bars at Target, be sure to check the outside of the box to see if they have the offer from Disney's and Pixar's Cars. Inside each of these boxes is a coupon for a FREE die-cast car of your child's favorite Cars character with the purchase of two boxes of Nutri-Grain bars. If you purchased like I did, this is a real bargain. The bars were on sale last week for $2.50 per box and buy three get one box free. I combined the store offer with two "$1 off two boxes" coupons. Therefore, I only spent $5.50 on the cereal bars. Combined with the offer inside the box, this is a phenomenal deal. Four boxes of Nutri-Grain and two Cars die-cast for $5.50 is not bad for snacks and two Christmas presents!
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