Green Christmas

Since I hadn't blogged for awhile, it has taken a few weeks to get the wheels turning again. However, I'm happy to say my passion for the green philosophy and sustainable living has been reignited. If you're looking for ways to make your Christmas a little more green this year, please check out my following posts for Maggie Bags.

Most recently, I shared ideas for how to reduce, reuse, and recycle Christmas cards. Did you know Americans send 2 billion cards every year, wiping out 300,000 trees?! But hey, I still send them and will receive at least 50 in the next few weeks. Take heart: I have lots of great ideas with the 3R's.

Next week begins my gift giving to teachers, neighbors, the mailman, etc. I choose to give some sort of locally preserved food: strawberries, blackberries, tomatoes, apples, etc. My mom always called these homemade holiday happies. This year I'm giving jars of salsa; yum.

There are also so many wonderful causes to support this time of year, and I've been pleased to donate a lot of goods from my couponing stockpile. No, I do not have a crazy stash like extreme couponers--just enough to spread good coupon karma. Here's a link to all the Black Friday freebies I scored; rest assured there are freebies every week so that you can "give green."

Finally, I am really enjoying my new "green" printer I picked up on Black Friday. It's fast, uses less ink, and the I haven't had a single issue with coupons scanning. Here I shared lots of other ways to make your printing more green.

If any of my posts resonate with you, I appreciate you leaving a comment. Happy Holidays!

Best Deals of 4/22-28

In preparation for my couponing chat tomorrow night at the Volunteer Ministry Center, I compiled this list of what I think are the best deals this week. I don't normally tout Ingles as a great place to save but this week their deals beat out Kroger hands down. Here are my favorites. For all the match-ups and links to printables, go to Southern Savers or Coupon Katie.

Ingles: (It’s a great B1G1 sale but you do NOT have to buy 2 to get the listed ind. price).

• Jennie O turkey franks 12oz: $.84
• Del Monte canned vegetables 14.5 – 15.25oz: $.67
• Honey Maid graham crackers: $2.15. Use $1/2 printable = $1.65
• Sarah Lee honey wheat bread 20oz: $1.48. Use $.55 from 4/14SS = $.93.
• Laura Lynn old fashioned oats (great for homemade granola or granola bars) 18oz: $.88
• Nissin Big Cup Noodles: 2.82oz: $.29. Use $1/3 from 3/18SS=FREE
• Annie’s organic mac n cheese: $.99. Buy 2 and submit for free year’s prescription to Organic Gardening magazine. See Coupon Katie for details.
• McCormick seasonings: $.44. Use $1/2 or $.75 = FREE. They may have to type in $.44 if coupon beeps.
• Weber marinades: $.56. Use $1/2 = $.06.
• Ragu sauce: $1. Use $.50 = FREE. Ingles doubles 3 under $.50 coupons for every $10 you spend.
• Kellogg’s Corn Flakes: $2.09. Use $.50 printable = $1.09.

Kroger:

• Dawn 9oz (smallest size): $1. Buy the hand renewal variety, use $.50 coupon from 4/1PG = FREE.
• Free Kroger reusable bag: Go to Kroger.com and login. Enter the “Design a Reusable Bag” contest and create your own. You can then load a free grocery bag to your Kroger card (may take 24 hours) and pick it up on your next shopping trip.

CVS:

• Buy 3 Hallmark Cards (excludes boxed cards and clearance items), get $3ECB. Buy 3 cards priced at $1.49 each and use $3/3 CVS printable = $1.53MM. Limit 1.
• Blink Tears (.5oz) or Gel Tears (.34oz): $8.99, Get $8.99ECB, Use $1 printable = $1MM. Limit 1.
• Dream Water Snoozeberry Dietary Supplement (2pk): $5.79, get 5.79ECB = FREE. Limit 1.

Walgreen’s:

· I-Cool + D Menopause Relief tablets (45ct): $10, get $10RR. Use $2 coupon from 2/19RP = $2MM.

· U by Kotex sleek tampons (18pk): $3.99, get $3RR. Use $1 coupon from 3/25SS or printable = FREE.

· Psoriasin Psoriasis Relief (.75oz): $5, get $5RR = FREE.

Target:

• Ortega seasoning mixes single packs: $.65. Use $1/2 printable = $.15 each
• Ortega taco shells (10-12ct): $1.35. Use $1/2 printable = $.85 each.
• OxiClean laundry stain remover trigger spray: $2.79. Use $1.50 Target printable coupon AND $.50 coupon from 4/22SS = $.29! or buy the gel stick for $2.99, use both coupons and pay just $.49.
• Market Pantry pasta and sauce: $1 each. Use $1/2 pasta and sauce Target printable = $.50 each.
• Mossimo scoop neck or V-neck pocket tee: $6. Use $3 Mossimo Target printable = $3.
• Starbucks coffee (11oz): $7.99. Use $2 Target coupon and $1.50 manufacturer’s printable = $4.49 each.

Slim Pickins: Deals 1/15-21

I briefly looked over the coupon blogger websites and was not impressed with the deals being offered by Walgreen's, CVS, or Kroger. Then I saw a few freebies at Ingles I can get with a handful of the basics. I'll be playing the "how little can I spend" game and work off my stockpile to feed the family this week.

Ingles has a policy that they double 3 (up to $.50 coupons) for every $10 you spend. Note: That's before coupons. I'll plan to get about $20 goods like bananas, salad, bread, and milk to get the following good deals:

• Fresh Express Garden Salad, 12oz: $.88 (if enrolled in Ingles Advantage promotions)
• Pillsbury Cinnamon Rolls: $1, use $.50 MC = FREE. I'm aiming to get 5 for free.
• Pillsbury Grands biscuits: $1, use $1/2 MC = $.50 each.
• Sargento shredded cheese, 5-9oz: $1.79, use $1/2 MC = $1.29 each.
• Hershey's 6ct bars: $1, use $1 printable = FREE.
• Kleenex, 100ct: $1, use $.50 MC (if included) = FREE.

For all the Ingles match-ups, go to Southern Savers.

What are your favorite deals this week?

Black Friday Pharmacy Deals: Money Maker Heaven!

I don't tend to be a Black Friday shopper, but the pharmacy deals are beckoning me. It's the SUPER BOWL of freebie couponing, and I don't want to miss out. Looking at all the deals, it can be enticing and overwhelming. If you're new to couponing at pharmacies, you may want to pick just 2 or 3 items. If you can't get enough of couponing, here's what I see as the best deals and my plan for getting them. Of course, nothing ever goes as planned because some items will be gone when I get there, but you have to start somewhere. MM stands for "money maker" and there are plenty of them:

WALGREEN'S:

For a few more deals and all the match-ups, go to Southern Savers.

• $4RR wyb 2 Bic Flex 4 disposable razors at $3 each. Use 2 $2 printables = $2MM.
• $2RR wyb Gum Deep Clean toothbrushes 2pk at $2 each. Use $.55 MC (not sure which magazine this came from) = $.55MM.
• $3RR wyb Colgate Total Advanced toothpaste 4oz at $3. Use $1 MC from SS 11/13 = $1MM.
• $2.50RR wyb Crest 3D White Vivid toothpaste 3oz at $2.50. Use $1 MC from P&G home mailers. All other coupons are for 4oz or more and can not be used. = $1MM.
• $2.75RR wyb Preparation H Totables hemorrhoid wipes 10pk at $2.75. Use $2 printable = $2MM.
• $2RR wyb DenTek Floss Picks 75 or 90 pk at $2 each. Use $.75 MC = $.75MM.
• $5.50RR wyb 2 Secret 3 oz body splash or spray at $3.75 each. Use 2 $1 MC = FREE.
• $4RR wyb Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick at $5.99. Use $1 off Revlon Color cosmetic from Walmart insert AND $1 Walgreens coupon=FREE. You’ll need an extra filler for this deal.
• $1.50RR wyb Oral-B indicator toothbrush at $1.50 = FREE. Don’t bother using $.75/2 coupons with this because then they wouldn’t be free.
• $3RR wyb 2 Scunci hair elastics 18pk at $1.50 each = FREE.
• $.99RR wyb Advil PM pain relief 4ct at $.99 = FREE.
• $2.49RR wyb ThermaCare heat wrap neck, wrist, and shoulder or menstrual at $2.49. If this is a 2ct product, you can use $1 or maybe even $3 printables (not sure how they’ll handle that at the register).

My plan, Amounts are OOP= Out of Pocket after coupons noted above:

Transaction #1:

2 Bic razors: $2

1 Thermacare: $1.49 (if it’s not 2ct, move this to transaction #2)

1 Colgate: $2

1 Crest: $1.50

1 Preparation H: $.75

1 DenTek floss: $1.25

1 Gum toothbrush: $1.45

Total OOP: $10.44, get back $18.75 in RR.

Transaction #2:

1 Oral B toothbrush: $1.50

2 Scunci: $3.00

1 Advil: $.99

2 Secret body splash: $5.50

1 Revlon lipstick: $3.99

3 filler items ($.30 or less each)

Use these RRs from Tr. #1: $2.50, $3, $2.50, $2.75, $2, $2

Total OOP: $.23 plus tax and cost of filler items

Transaction #3:

1 Thermacare: $1.49

1 Colgate: $2

1 Crest: $1.50

1 Preparation H: $.75

1 DenTek floss: $1.25

2 fillers

Use $4 and $3 RRs from Tr. #2.

Total OOP: cost of fillers plus tax

Transaction #4:

1 Oral B toothbrush: $1.50

2 Scunci: $3.00

1 Advil: $.99

1 Revlon lipstick: $3.99

1 DenTek floss: $1.25

1 filler

Use $2.49, $3, $2.50, and $2.75 RRs from Tr. #3.

Total OOP: cost of filler plus tax

I still leave with these RRs: $4, $1.50, $.99, $5.50, $2, $3, $2, $4, $1.50, and $.99 = $25.48 and I should spend less that $15. Of course it never works totally as planned, but we’ll see.

CVS (numbers of products are by limit of deals)

For all the match-ups and a few extra deals, go to Southern Savers.

• 1 Breathe Rite Strips Bonus Size 10 + 2ct: $5.99, get $5.99. Use $1.50 CVS coupon and $1.50 MC = $3MM. Can’t find MC.
• 1 Benefiber sticks 3 ct: $1.49, get $1.49ECB, Use $3 printable = $3MM.
• 1 Finish Quantum 10ct dishwashing detergent: $2.99, get $2.99ECB. Use $1MC = $1MM.
• 1 L.A. Looks styling gel 20oz: $2.49, get $2.49ECB. Use $1MC = $1MM.
• 2 Colgate Total Advanced toothpastes, various varieties: $2.87, get $2.87. Use $1MC = $1MM. I'll probably use my coupons here instead of Walgreen's.
• 1 Theraflu caplets 8ct: $1.87, get $1.87. Use $2 printable = $2MM.
• 1 Theraflu daytime or multi-symptom travel size: $.99, get $.99ECB. Use $3/2MC = $2MM.
• 2 Listerine pocketpacks: $2.99 each, get $2.99ECB each. Use 2 $.50 MC = $1MM.
• 1 Fiber One brownies: $3.99, get $3.99ECB. Use $.40 MC = $.40MM.
• 1 Carmex lip balm: $1, get $1ECB. Use $.30 printable = $.30MM.
• 2 GUM Super or Micro-tip toothbrushes: $2.99 each, get $2.99ECB each. Use $.55MC from unknown magazine=$.55MM.
• 1 Cepacol lozenges 16ct: $4.99, get $4.99ECB. Use $1 printable = $1MM.
• 1 Balance Bar: $1.69, get $1.69ECB = FREE.
• 1 Starbucks double shot, 6.5 oz: $1.69, get $1.69ECB = FREE.
• 2 Hershey’s king size bar: $.99 each, get $.99ECB each = FREE.
• 4 Mars chocolate singles candy 1.08 – 2.15oz: $.75 each, get $.75ECB each = FREE.
• 1 Advil Pm 4ct: $.99, get $.99ECB = FREE.
• 1 Advil 10ct: $2.99, get $2.99ECB = FREE.
• 1 Be Kool from Fever Discomfort gel sheets: $4.49, get $4.49ECB = FREE.
• 1 CVS dental flossers 90 ct: $1.99, get $1.99ECB = FREE.
• 1 Pepto Bismol 4oz: $2.99, get $2.99ECB = FREE.
• 1 CVS alkaline batteries 4 ct AA or AAA: $3.99, get $3.99ECB = FREE.
• 6 Revlon nail polish: $4.99, get $4RR. Use $1MC= FREE. I'll probably use my 2 Revlon coupons here instead of Walgreen's.
• 1 Softlips single pack: $2, get $2ECB = FREE.
• 1 Kleenex cool touch tissues, 50ct: $1.50, get $1.50ECB = FREE.

I'm starting with $4ECB and will pick the biggest money makers first. I'll keep rolling ECBs into future deals with as few transactions as possible. I don't mind walking out with lots of ECBs because I'm confident I'll use them within four weeks.

So are you ready or is this as clear as Greek? What questions do you have about shopping pharmacies?

Decent Staples deals this week

If you happen to be near a Staples this week, there are a few good deals to pick up. You need a rewards card for some of them. I will probably be picking up deals for myself and my church by using both Staples cards and I won't have to pay tax on their purchases. There's a limit per account; not per customer. The deals are either in Staples rewards; pay now, save later through store credit, or Easy Rebates; pay now, they send you a check. Rewards are usually good for 2 months. Here are the deals:

1 Scotch Magic Greener tape: $3.99, get $3.99 in SR=FREE

1 Staples pack of pastel paper 500 sheets: $8.79, get $8.79 in SR=FREE

1 8 pack of Staples writing pads / steno pads: $10.79, get $10.79 in SR=FREE

1 3 pack of Scotch moving & storage tape: $13.99, get $13.99 in SR==FREE

1 5 pack Bic Mark it permanent markers: $3.00, easy rebate: $2.75=$.25

1 4 pack Pentel Wow retractable pens: $2.99, easy rebate: $2.74=$.25

5 2 pocket ply folders: $.25 each

5 Really Useful storage boxes: $.25

2 Staples 70 sheet notebooks: $.19 each

2 Staples memo books: $.50 each

What deals do you think are worth the trip?

Couponing for Charity 7/10 - 16

Maybe it's just a summer thing, maybe we're in the midst of a slow sales cycle slump, or maybe TLC's Extreme Couponing has changed the couponing scene for everyone. Whatever the cause, I'm lamenting that lately there just aren't as many great deals as I'm used to seeing. Fewer deals for my family and fewer deals for the charities I've been supporting.

However, I have found a few deals I'll try to pick up this week.

CVS:

For all the savings, check out Southern Saver's match-ups.

For a pared down list, check out Coupon Katie.

Here's my plan:

• 1 Complete Multipurpose solution 12 oz ($7.99, get $7.99 ECB=FREE); limit 1
• 1 Balance Bar ($1.69, get $1.69 ECB=FREE); limit 1
• 2 Raison Brans ($2.50 each, $1 ECB wyb 2; use 2 $.70 printables =$1.30 each); limit 1
• 2 Colgate toothpastes 4oz ($1.66 each, use $1.50/2 CVS kiosk coupon and 2 $.75 MC=$.16 each. If I can find the $1 coupons, they're free.)

WALGREENS:

Here are all the Southern Saver match-ups.

Here is a pared down list from Coupon Katie.

I doubt I'll go into Walgreen's this week, but if I did, here's what I'd get:

Transaction #1:

• 1 Hyland's natural teething gel--a great gift for a baby shower ($5, get $5RR, use $1 printable=$1MM)

OOP: $4 + tax

RR earned: $5

Transaction #2:

• 1 W Womens 6 Blade Razor System ($3.99, get $3.99RR=FREE)
• 1 GUM 200 yards floss ($2, get $2RR=FREE)
• Use $5RR from previous transaction

OOP: $.99 + tax

RRs earned: $6

KROGER:

Click here for all the match-ups from Southern Savers.

It's another mega-sale; so lots of deals other than what I've noted here, but these are the freebies I see.

• Colgate ($.99; use $.75 - $1 MC=Free to nearly free). Tip: If you don't want to deal with ECBs and RRs, this is a great way to get free toothpaste.
• Pringles ($.85, use $.50 MC, doubled = FREE)
• Mars & Nestle bars ($.50, use $.50/2 MC or $1.19/2 e-saver=FREE)

What are your favorite deals?

FREE 8.5x11 classic linen photo book 7/9 only!

If you're looking to create a photo book for a special occasion, this looks like a great deal today. But since these aren't done in stores, you will have to pay shipping; not sure how much.

At Walgreen's the 8.5 x 11 classic linen photo book starts at $19.99, but is FREE today only. You upload your pictures and rearrange them from your computer. You can get between 10 and 75 double sided pages. Not sure how many pages are free with this offer. I have discovered that to use a free coupon code for deals like this, you need to get EXACTLY what it's offering. Don't choose another size and don't choose leather. At check-out, use the promo code "CREATEBOOK"



Offer good through Saturday, July 9 only! If you decide to get this deal, let me know what you think.

Couponing for Charity 6/26-7/2

As I've mentioned before, I'm going to begin limiting my trips to Walgreen's because I don't feel they have the best deals right now. My CfC posts will reflect the deals I think are best for me, but you should check the match-ups to the other bloggers to see if there are other deals that entice you.

WALREEN'S:

For all the match-ups, go to Southern Savers.

For a pared down list, go to Coupon Katie or Knoxville on a Dime.

I did stop in briefly to use my last RR expiring today for a dollar. I got three poster boards for $.09. Here's an idea if you have the appropriate coupon:

• Transaction #1: Buy 1 Reach floss or toothbrush ($2.99, get $2RR, use $1 MC=FREE)
• Transaction #2: Buy 6 poster boards (normally $.99 each, 3 for $1 with ad coupon). You can use your RR from the first transaction and just pay tax: $.18. Tip: I did not have to use the coupon because they rang up $.33 each, but have it handy just in case.

CVS:

For all the match-ups, go to Southern Savers.

For a pared down list, go to Coupon Katie or Knoxville on a Dime.

I will be heading to CVS Tuesday - Thursday because I'm expecting an additional 20-25% savings coupon in my email by Tuesday morning. I'm not sure if it's off one item or the total; we'll see. I had signed up for it last week. Tip: I tend to post deals like this on the Knoxmoms Momshare message board for future reference.

I have a number of items with rain checks I hope to get in addition to this week's deals.

• 1 Rephresh tampons-18ct ($6.79, get $6.79ECB, use $1 printable=$1MM). Tip: I've heard tampons are good to keep in first aid kits for things like nosebleeds. Limit 1.
• 2 Huggies Snug & Dry ($9, $4ECB wyb 2, use 2 $2 MC=$5 each). If you buy a small Huggies wipes, you can qualify for $3 with Saving Star. There's also a $.50 wipes coupon. Limit 1.
• 2 Wisk bottles ($7.49, b1G1=$3.75 each, use 2 $2 MC. Bonus: $1 will be credited to my Saving Star account. So each will cost $1.24. If they sell out, make sure o ask for a rain check.
• I have about $10 in ECBs that will minimize my OOP.

There are additional deals on Dove or Degree if you have enough coupons or can get the printables to print. You can also get Mennen Speed Stick for free with a coupon from CVS Reinventing Beauty magazine. Since this costs $1, I haven't invested in it yet. Maybe next month.

KROGER:

For all the match-ups, go to Southern Savers.

It's another mega-event, but I didn't see any freebies to note. If there are deals that interest you, I'd shop before the end of the month, as some of those coupons will expire. Ronzoni is $1 again if you haven't already used all your $1 coupons. You could also print $1/2 to get some for $.50.

Not a lot to donate this week, but Couponing for Charity isn't just about freebies for others. It's ways to save for your family so that you can be more generous for others. What deals did I miss?

Couponing for Charity 6/19-25

As I mentioned in my last post, I will be making some changes to Couponing for Charity. So here are the deals I see worth mentioning this week. I already shopped CVS last night to take advantage of two weeks of deals in one trip (and to get my raincheck for the Zyrtek money maker), but I'll only mention the deals you can currently get.

CVS:

For all the match-ups, go to Southern Savers.

For a pared down list, go to Coupon Katie.

The deals I got:

• 1 Bliss chocolates ($5.99, get $5.99 ECB, used $1 MC=$1MM; limit 1)
• 1 Power Bar Energy Bites 2.6-3oz ($2.49, get $2.49 ECB, used $1 MC from free sample=$1MM; limit 1)
• 2 Colgate toothpastes ($2.79, get $2 ECB, used 2 $1 MC=$.42 MM; limit 2)
• 1 Irish Spring deodorant ($2.99, get $2 ECB, used $1 MC=FREE; limit 1)
• 1 Pull-ups ($8.99, get $1 ECB, used $3 printable=$4.99; limit 1)

KROGER

For all the match-ups, go to Southern Savers.

It's the second week of a rather unimpressive sale. There are two freebies I hope to pick up though:

• Pure Protein Bar ($.99, use 1 $1 printable and 1 B1G1 MC=2 FREE)
• Speed Stick men's deodorant ($.99, use 2 $.50 printables that will double=2 FREE)

I'm skipping Walgreen's this week. How about you? Which deals did I miss?

Couponing for Charity Latest Contribution

It's been a long time since I posted about my charitable donations; so here goes. First of all, I will be changing things up a bit. I'm going to stop the tally of value of goods and money spent because it's so time consuming. You can rest assured that most things on my list are free or money makers. I also may not post every week. I'll post when I think the deals are worth getting.

I'm also changing how I will be giving out donations. I had been working with a few other friends and adding our haul for a different charity every three months. The interest has dwindled to primarily my stock pile. So I've decided to just get what deals work for me, add them to my stockpile (see pictured), and distribute the products to the organizations that mean the most to me throughout the year. Since deals are often seasonal, that allows me to better match a group's needs with deals I've gotten over a longer period of time and to give each charity a wider variety of freebies.

For instance, our church, the Church of the Good Samaritan, supports the Volunteer Ministry Center in downtown Knoxville through a mentor program and serving meals. This group works very hard to help transition people away from homelessness. A couple just achieved that and I wanted to help celebrate that accomplishment with a "stock your pantry" gift bag.

In a reusable shopping bag they can use to shop future deals I added:

• 2 bottles water
• 2 boxes pasta
• 5 soups / soup mixes
• 1 body wash / shampoo
• 1 hand soap
• 2 deodorants
• 1 pack of feminine needs
• 1 gum
• 2 packs of post-its
• 2 pens
• 4 toothpaste
• 2 toothbrushes
• 1 floss
• 1 razor
• 1 ibuprofin

Everything pictured was free or less than $.50 and the value is probably $50. I would love to inspire them to learn the couponing skills to do this themselves to help stretch their budget. At least they have a few items to get them started.

So in the future, I may not be chasing as many deals. Walgreen's will have to work harder to pull me into their store, and I'll probably be going to CVS just twice a month. A little here, a little there can go a long way. And when a group or individual needs something, I'll be ready!

Do you coupon for charity? Do you find my posts helpful?

Walgreen's, oh Walgreen's, you're beginning to lose your luster!

I've been shopping the pharmacy deals at Walgreen's and CVS for a year and a half now. It took me awhile to get down some strategies and learn which deals to get and which to pass by. And although I do save about 80% at Walgreen's regularly, I'm beginning to feel less impressed with their deals.

Lately it seems they don't have the deals I really want (not just that the shelves are cleared but the store was never sent the stock). It's like they publicize a deal to get me in there and then don't deliver. Plus, a lot of their freebies are for products I'll never use and seem too specific to donate. I've had to struggle a few times to find deals worth spending my RRs on. If it happened once, fine. But it has become a pattern now and I'm beginning to feel it's just not worth it.

Fear not, however, I have not sworn off couponing. I still think CVS has great deals. I much prefer that their store credit coupons last twice as long as Walgreen's, you can shop for two weeks of deals on Saturday night, and rainchecks for deals with ECBs are easier. I also like their extra deals that print at the kiosk; it's like a mini lottery without having to pay money.

Is it just me or have your experiences at Walgreen's been less productive or fun lately? Do you prefer Walgreen's or CVS?

Couponing for Charity 6/5-6/11

Yes, it's Wednesday and I'm just getting around to posting about this week's best deals. So is life caring for three kids full-time and no school! I think there's just one place to head this week for deals: CVS. Kroger's sale is the same as last week (still free pasta) and the few deals I wanted at Walgreen's (Starbucks ice cream and Sobe life water) weren't there when I popped in today. It's not worth my time trying multiple stores.

CVS:

For all the match-ups, go to Southern Savers.

For a pared down list, go to Coupon Katie or Knoxville on a Dime.

Since the shelves were already clear of some of the deals, I asked for a raincheck. Most of my coupons are good through the end of the month. So I have time to get more deals on future trips. Here's what I did get at CVS:

• 1 Oral B Pulsar toothbrush (normally $6.49, on sale for $6, get $3ECB, use $3 MC from 6/5's P&G insert=FREE; limit 2)
• 1 Crest Pro Health 1 liter mouthwash (normally $5.89, on sale for $4.50, get $2.50ECB, used $2 MC from 6/5's P&G insert=FREE; limit 2)
• 1 Colgate Maxfresh toothpaste (normally $3.29, on sale for $2.79, get $2ECB, used $1 MC from All You magazine = $.21 MM; limit 2)
• 1 Goodnites (normally $11.49, on sale for $8.99, get $2ECB, used $3 manufacturer's printable on any Huggies diapers and $3 CVS savings that printed at the kiosk=$1!!!!!; limit 1)
• I also used $8.99 in ECBs from previous trips.

Total OOP: $3.35

Total Saved: $25.87

ECBs for next time: $9.50

Other good deals they were out of:

• Excedrin Extra Strength 8ct ($.99, get $.99, use $2 CVS printing at kiosk=$2MM; limit 2)
• Ivory 3 bar pack ($.99, use $1 MC=FREE)
• Colgate 360 toothbrush (same deal as above; normally $3.29, on sale for $2.79, get $2ECB, used $1 MC from All You magazine = $.21 MM; limit 2)

What I'll be donating: 1 toothpaste, 1 power toothbrush

Value of items: $9.78

Total spent: -$.21

If you've made it to the bottom of this post, I have a question for you: Are these posts helpful? Do you find all the deals on your own anyway? Do you find value in my continuing them or would you rather I post about other things? Just wondering.

Couponing for Charity 5/29-6/4

Yesterday I ran out to Walgreen's and CVS because I had RRs and ECBs expiring this week. Though it's not a GREAT week, there were deals that were worth my while. Walgreen's is probably the better store if you have to pick one. For the best deals shop Monday or Tuesday.

WALGREEN'S:

For all the match-ups, go to Southern Saver.

For pared down lists, go to Coupon Katie or Knoxville on a Dime.

Here's what I bought:

Transaction #1:

• 3 Kids Aquafresh ($.99 with flyer coupon, used 3 $1/1 MC--exp. 5/31=3 FREE)
• 1 Icy Hot all natural cream ($.99, get $.99RR, used $1/1 MC=$1 MM)
• 1 Nabisco triscuits ($2, get $2RR Sunday and Monday only=FREE. Note: The shelves were bare of Crackerfuls but they allowed this to be part of the deal.)
• 1 Goody's powder ($1.50, get $1.50RR=FREE)
• Used $3RR from previous trip

OOP: $1.14

Total Savings: $14.17

RRs earned: $.99, $2, $1.50

Transaction #2:

• 1 Ritz crackers (same deal as above=FREE)
• 1 IcyHot cream (same deal as above=$1MM)
• 1 Ecotrin 45 ct ($.99 with flyer coupon, used $1.50MC=$.51MM)
• 4 Reynolds Wrap foil 70ft ($1.99, used $1MC=$.99. Offer good Sunday and Monday only)
• Used $1.50RR from above.

OOP: $5.03

Total Savings: $20.68

RRs earned: $2, $.99

Transaction #3:

• 1 IcyHot cream (same as above)

OOP: $.09

Total Savings: $1.99

RR earned: $.99

CVS:

For all the match-ups, go to Southern Saver.

For pared down lists, go to Coupon Katie or Knoxville on a Dime.

Here's what I bought:

• 2 Snickers bars ($.50 each, buy 2, get $1ECB=2FREE; limit one; any Mars chocolates)
• 2 Pantene conditioners ($3.49 each, buy 2, get $2ECB, used $3/2 MC exp. 5/31=$.99 each; limit 1)
• 1 Preparation H wipes ($3.99, get $3.99ECB, used $2/1 printable=$2MM; limit 1)
• 1 Pampers EZ-ups ($8.99, get $2ECB, used $1.50MC-exp. 5/31=$5.50; limit 1)
• Used ECBs from previous trips: $10.54

OOP: $5.85

Total Saved: $25.13

ECBs Earned: $8.99 ($1, $2, $3.99, $2); I could have split the transactions to reduce my OOP this trip even more, but I know I'll spend these ECBs within the next month.

KROGER:

For all the match-ups, go to Southern Saver.

For pared down lists, go to Coupon Katie or Knoxville on a Dime.

I won't make it to Kroger for a few more days, but I will aim to get the following:

• Ronzoni Garden Delight pasta ($1, use $1/1 MC and printables=FREE)
• Pepperidge Farm cookies ($1.99, use $1 MC=$.99 each)
• Band Aids 20ct ($1.90, use $.50MC=$.90)
• Santa Cruz organic lemonade ($1.25, use $.75 printable = $.50)

Items I'll be donating this week:

• 2 IcyHot naturals (normally $1.99, $1MM)
• 1 Goody's powder (normally $1.99 I think, $1.50, FREE)
• 1 Ecotrin (normally $3.49, $.51MM)
• 1 Preparation H wipes (normally $4.69, $2MM)

Value of goods: $14.15

What I paid: -$4.51 (that's negative $4.51)

Couponing for Charity 5/1-7

Hi couponing, divas. No, I have not disappeared, and no I have not stopped Couponing for Charity. I have actually been getting the deals the past few weeks but haven't had time to post the deals in advance or my results. But I'm here to get you inspired again to help those less fortunate. I just returned from Walgreen's and CVS and got some great deals for us and others. If you're going to pick one, head to Walgreen's.

WALGREEN'S:
For all the match-ups, go to Southern Savers.
For a pared down list, go to Coupon Katie.

Here were my transactions:

Transaction #1:

• 2 Cottonelle 12 pack (look for the tall roll; the other isn't the deal; $5 each, buy 2 get $3RR, used 2 $.50 printables and 1 Walgreen's coupon from the May book that took off $2; price after coupons and RRs=$2 each)


• 2 Fixodent cleansers (on sale for $3.99, get $1RR; used 1 $3MC and 1 B1G1 MC=2 FREE)


• 1 Gum Eez Flosser (on sale for $2, get $2RR=FREE)


• 2 Hershey Reeses (on sale for $.49 each; filler items but my favorite)


• Used 2 $4RRs from previous trips

Total OOP: $3.15

Total saved: $22.59

Total RRs for next time: $6

Transaction #2:

• 2 Tylenol Precise creams ($7.99 each, used 2 $5 printable MCs and 1 Walgreens coupon from May book that took off $6=both FREE)


• 2 Fixodent cleansers (same deal as above; both FREE)


• 1 Wal-Zyr (allergy medicine for my son--on sale for $4.99)


• 1 Hershey Reese's (filler)


• Used $4RR from last week

Total OOP: $2.50

Total Saved: $35.39

RRs for next time: $1

CVS:

For all the match-ups, go to Southern Savers.

For a pared down list, go to Coupon Katie.

Here's what I bought:

• 2 Pantene products (rang up $2.99 each, less than advertised; buy 2, get $1ECB; used $3/2 from 5/1 paper=$1 each)


• 1 Cascade action packs ($4; buy $10 of Cascade and Mr. Clean products, get $3ECB)


• 2 Magic Eraser packs ($3 each; used $1.50/2 from 5/1 paper; see above deal)


• 2 Colgate Maxfresh ($2.77 each; get $2.77ECB; used 2 $1MC= $2MM)


• 1 Ivory 3 bars pack ($.99, used $1 MC from 5/1 paper=FREE)


• Used $2 off $10 ECB that printed at kiosk


• Used $11.97ECBs from previous trips

Total OOP: $.56

Total Saved: $31.69

ECBs for next time: $9.54

I'll be donating the Fixodent (at least $20; didn't get exact non-sale price) and Colgate ($6.58) and keeping the rest. I'll update all my totals another time. Don't forget to pick up some free pasta at Kroger. What are your favorite deals this week?

Couponing for Charity 4/3-9

My apologies for the delay in posting. Lots going on right now for me and my family. I've checked out the match-ups, and though it's not a great week, there are a few deals to be had. If you're picking just one, head to CVS.

CVS:

For all the match-ups, visit Southern Savers.

For a pared down list, visit Coupon Katie.

Here's my plan; note the numbers of products--as those are the limits to the deals and I round up to make it easier.

• 1 Complete multi-purpose eye solution, 12oz ($9, get $9ECB, $1MC=$1MM)
• 2 Oral B manual toothbrushes ($3 each, get $1ECB for each, use 1 B1G1 coupon and 1 $2MC=$1MM)
• 2 Gumeez flossers ($2, get $2ECB=FREE)
• 2 Crest toothpaste or floss ($3.50, get $2.50ECB, use $1MC=FREE)
• 3-4 Benefiber products depending on the price ($10ECB wyb $20 of products, I have 2 $5/2 and 2 $2/1 coupons)
• If the Benefiber deal works out, I'll use the $5 off $40 CVS printable good through 4/10. If not, I'll see what next week's deals look like.
• I also have $15 ECBs to use to minimize my OOP

WALGREEN'S:

For all the match-ups, visit Southern Savers.

For a pared down list, visit Coupon Katie.

The only real deals I see this week are the Colgate Maxfresh money maker and the $.50 Color Wonder On the Go. But I don't think it's enough to pull me in.

KROGER:

For all the match-ups, visit Southern Savers.

For a pared down list, visit Coupon Katie.

Other than a few fresh fruits, veggies, bread, and milk, I don't plan to buy much at Kroger this week. I might pick up 4 cleaning supplies if I have the right coupons and some pot pies. Make sure you load the free potpie e-saver (wyb 5) at Shortcuts.com or Kroger.com.

What are your favorite freebies this week? What did I miss?

Couponing for Charity 3/27-4/2

Sorry I was a slacker last week. I just couldn't get it together to write a post but I did get a few goodies at CVS and loads of free pasta at Kroger. This week's post will be very short because I'm not inspired by the offers. I will head to Walgreen's because I have a $3RR expiring this week.

WALGREEN'S:

For all the match-ups, go to Southern Savers.

For a pared down list, go to Coupon Katie.

Here's my plan:

• 2 Colgate Total products ($3 each, buy 2, get $4RR, use 1 $1.50 from 3/27 paper and 1 $1 from All You magazine=$.50MM)
• 7 Snickers eggs ($.29 each, use 2 $1/2 Mars coupons=$.03 for all 7--great for Easter baskets)
• Use $3 RR from last week

Total OOP: $.53 plus tax

RRs for next time: $4

CVS

For all the match-ups, go to Southern Savers.

For a pared down list, go to Coupon Katie.

Nothing here inspires me; so I'm going to skip it. You might check out Southern Saver's scenarios at the bottom to see if any of those work for you.

KROGER

For all the match-ups, go to Southern Savers.

For a pared down list, go to Coupon Katie.

After the last two weeks of awesome savings, this week is a chance to rest the pocketbook. I may stop in for some fresh bread and bananas on April 1 when they're giving away a free bag of Sun Chips (3-8pm), but I don't see any freebies for charity.