Deals, Steals, and Meals

Utah Case Lot Sales

2011-08-04T13:26:00.002-06:00

It's case lot time again. The woman at Prepared LDS Family has updated her comprehensive list of prices going on this season. If you're planning on stocking up on anything, you should definitely check it out.

CSA: Tagge's Farms

2011-07-21T13:12:00.004-06:00

I haven't been doing Bountiful Baskets the last few weeks. For the last 3 I've been trying something new. Back in April I bought a "half share" from Tagge's Famous Fruit. I prepaid for 15 weeks of fruits and veggies grown right here in the state. It worked out to $18.33 a week (compared to $16.50 with BB). The items are organically grown though, so if you're in to that, this might be the way to go. Here are the items we've received thus far:

Week #1

Week #2

Week #3

My kids have enjoyed all the cherries (especially the baby who eats the pits!). I've been sauteing all the greens and using them in various pasta and rice dishes, which I've enjoyed.

Using up all the Chicken

2011-07-20T18:19:00.003-06:00

Every time I buy a 40 lb box of chicken I trim it, bag it, and throw it in the freezer, scraps are trashed. Last time I did this I later read this on Pinching Your Pennies.com. I determined to not waste those scraps again.

Yesterday I purchased a 40 lb box of boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the Springville Reams ($1.48 lb). I did my usual trim and bag, but this time I saved all my scraps for broth. So fun to use it all up.

Homemade Mixes

2011-07-15T10:14:00.001-06:00

Tightwad Mom's Frugal Forum blog has links to the following homemade mixes-

Spice Blends:
Dry Onion Soup Mix
Pumpkin Pie Spice
Taco Seasoning
Ranch Dressing Mix
Chili Seasoning Mix

Convenience Foods:
Home Made Pancake Syrup
Bagel Bite Pizzas
Crockpot Refried Beans
Frozen Fudge Pops
Frozen Smoothie Pops
Sweet and Condensed Milk
Granola Bars

Mixes:
Bisquick
Pancake Mix
Oatmeal Pancake Mix
Corn Muffin Mix
Muffin Mix
Hot Roll Mix
Hot Cocoa Mix
Yellow Cake Mix
Chocolate Cake Mix

Food Co-op in Spanish Fork

2011-04-04T13:33:00.004-06:00

For my local friends I thought you might be interested in a local co-op or CSA. Tagge's Famous Fruit will have a weekly drop off in town for 15 weeks starting in July. You pre-pay for your shares. The information is all here.

I really enjoy Bountiful Baskets, but I'm intrigued by this since it is local farmers. The word is that it is comparable in quantity to Bountiful Baskets though the website says that your shares are significantly smaller in July than in August and September.

If anyone is interested give me a call and I'll tell you what I know.

Wheat Bread

2011-04-04T13:05:00.002-06:00

Here is the wheat bread recipe to accompany the picture from 3 weeks ago:

Whole Wheat Bread (thanks cousin Jen!)
5 cups hot water
1/4 cup oil
3/4 cup honey
10-11 cups wheat flour
1 T bread enhancer/gluten
1 T salt
2 T yeast

In mixer, mix hot water, oil and honey. Add 2 cups wheat flour and mix until it looks soapy. Add bread enhancer, salt and 2-3 more cups of wheat flour. Mix until it looks like pancake batter. Mix in yeast. At this point, keep adding wheat flour, 1 cup at a time until it cleans the bowl. Knead dough in machine for 5 minutes. Cover and let rise for 15 minutes.

Divide dough into four equal parts. Beat out each part on an oiled surface into a rectangle shape until all the bubbles are out. Roll each into a loaf and put it in a greased bread pan. Let rise in pans for 15-25 minutes. Bake at 350 for 30 minutes.

My Notes:
First of all this is delicious! I recently acquired a Blendtec blender, so I have been using it to blend wheat into flour. It is magical. Anyway, I'm so happy to have used up my first bag of wheat from my food storage.

I mix the dough in my kitchen aid, and it works just fine, but since it's the smaller sized one I cut the recipe in half. I also use both bread enhancer and vital wheat gluten. I wasn't sure on the recipe what was intended so I just put a Tablespoon of each in. Also, I find that it takes a lot longer than 15-25 minutes for my loaves to rise. I also cover the loaves with a damp towel while they are raising.

Wheat Bread

2011-03-13T17:26:00.001-06:00

This Looks Good

2011-02-28T14:07:00.002-07:00

I just wanted to mark this recipe, it looks good.Blue Bayou Chicken & Shrimp Gumbo

Look What I Got For Zero Dollars

2011-02-18T14:20:00.002-07:00

The other day I got this fancy package in the mail. Inside was a Google Chrome Cr-48 Notebook. In mommy speak it is a way for me to access the web without hiding out in my bedroom to do so. I have enjoyed reading my feeds, checking Facebook, accessing my Google docs and calendar, listening to Pandora, and even watching a little Hulu on this convenient device (has a long battery life too!). The kids have enjoyed it as well. I'm not sure if they are still looking for good homes for these puppies but you can try at this link.

Soup to try

2011-01-14T20:09:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to keep track of this blog post. 'Tis the season for soups and some of these look really good.

Safely Gathered In

Free (sort of) Wii Game

2010-12-03T19:44:00.003-07:00

Look what I got in the mail today:

A few weeks ago Langers Apple Juice was on sale for $.99 at Smiths. I bought a bunch and sent in for this game. You can find the details here: Langers Juice
There is a $1.00 off any Langer's juice coupon that came a out a couple weeks ago so you can get the juice for even less with a sale.

I've heard this game is fun. We will see after Christmas.

Pumpkin Fun

2010-11-24T15:40:00.002-07:00

See the 3 pumpkins in the background? We have slowly been cookin' them up. We've tried the following pumpkin recipes:
Pumpkin Bread Mine sunk a bit, but it didn't stop us from eating it up.
Pumpkin Soup I used sour cream instead of whipping cream and it didn't go over too well with the kids.
Pumpkin Pie The kids loved this.
Easiest Pumpkin Cookies:
1 15-oz can pumpkin (1 3/4 c home brewed pumpkin)
1 Spice flavored box cake mix
1/2 bag of chocolate chips

Mix the 3 together and plop on a greased cookie sheet for 18 minutes at 350 degrees.

Canning Fun

2010-11-09T13:39:00.005-07:00

My mom couldn't can her grapes this year, so I took it over. It was a mess. I do have a greater appreciation for all her hard work over the years juicing grapes. One day I made a batch of salsa and juiced grapes. I was such a happy homemaker.

Later in the month I made applesauce. My neighbor let me borrow her Victorio Strainer. It totally beats, peeling, slicing, coring, and mashing 'em yourself. I still have some apples in my garage. If I can round up a few more bottles I'll finish up the last of them.

Salsa

2010-10-04T23:32:00.008-06:00

This past Saturday I made Salsa again (second time ever). I used a different recipe, which was really tasty. It comes from my Aunt Julie.

Julie's Salsa
50 medium tomatoes, washed, peeled and quartered
4 large onions, chopped
4 sweet red peppers, chopped
4 large green bell peppers, chopped
8 jalepeno peppers, remove seeds for milder salsa (Julie's notes say, "I keep the seeds of 6 and remove the seeds of two")
1 medium garlic bulb, minced
2 T sugar
3/4 c apple cider vinegar
12 t salt (1/4 c)

Cook tomatoes for about 1 hour. While cooking skim off 5 cups of juice. Add onion, red peppers, green peppers, jalepeno and garlic. Cook with tomatoes for 45 minutes. Add sugar, vinegar and salt. Cook for another 30 minutes.

Put in jars and seal. Steam for about 10 minutes. Makes 12-14 pints.

I only had 25 tomatoes so I halved the recipe. "Halved" sounds so weird. I got the tomatoes, green peppers and jalepenos from my dad's garden. (For Sarah) I got the red peppers from Bountiful Baskets.

For My Mom

2010-10-04T23:32:00.007-06:00

Aren't they beautiful? Thanks for teaching me how.

Bountiful Baskets 10/2

2010-10-03T17:51:00.003-06:00

Look at the great basket I got yesterday:

Potatoes, artichoke, cauliflower, lettuce, grapes, tomatoes, red peppers, cantaloupe, plums, apples, strawberries, and bananas.

I also ordered peaches again. They were Utah ones and look beautiful!

Here is the website if you want to give it a try, orders for Utah start on Monday at 8:00pm:Bountiful Baskets.

A few things I meant to post, but didn't because I was too busy...

2010-09-23T22:11:00.003-06:00

The last couple of months Smiths has been having Double Coupon days. This last time I was so excited about my trip that I took a picture of it meaning to share it with the world, but I got too busy.

Another day my MIL brought over a laundry basket full of tomatoes, peppers, and onions. She asked me if I knew how to can salsa. I didn't then, but I do now. I meant to tell you all about it, but I got too busy.

You know how you can use a ton of coupons on trial sized items to score 'em for free? The other day I got all this stuff at Target for 0 dollars. I wanted to let you know, but I got too busy.

Last week at Smiths you could get this gigantic thing of toilet paper for $2.99. Wouldn't it have been awesome if I had told you all about it?
It was the same day that I got this giant thing of cheese for free.
(I heard the coupon is in the October Family Fun Magazine, too). I meant to tell you all about my Smiths trip, but I got too busy.

Finally I wanted to share a new pizza recipe that we liked. It comes from Deals to Meals.
I'm almost never too busy to share pizza, but even this post got away from me.

So there you have it, a bunch of deals and finds that could definitely give this blog some potential. Oh well. Until next time.

Bountiful Baskets

2010-09-23T22:03:00.002-06:00

My determination paid off and I made it to Bountiful Baskets last week (18th). I was pretty excited about the basket, especially the apples since my kindergartner had told me about 12 times that he needed one for school the next Monday.

It has now been a few days and I'm sad to report that the bananas and pears were a complete bust. Neither of them ripened, despite my best effort. I also ordered some peaches in addition to the regular basket. I wanted to can them. They were not ripe enough on Saturday. I hoped all week that they would soften up. Today they were starting to spoil. They were unsuitable for canning so I used them for jam. It wasn't a total waste, but they certainly were not very tasty on their own. Everything else has been satisfactory.

Free Cache Valley Cheese

2010-09-20T20:41:00.004-06:00

If you subscribe to Parents magazine then you're in luck! There is a coupon for a free package of Cache Valley cheese or butter. There are no size restrictions, so I was able to use it on a 5lb block of cheese ($16.99 value at Smiths!).

The coupon is found in the October issue which looks like this:

The Cache Valley cheese coupon looks like this (coupon down at the bottom):

I've heard the coupon can also be found in the October issue of Parenting magazine.

White Bread Recipe

2010-09-11T15:33:00.002-06:00

I tried to make this bread beautiful by adding the butter on top for the pic. Instead it just made it look all weird.

Anyway, we've enjoyed this white bread recipe. It comes from my cousin Kate.

5 1/2 c all-purpose flour
2 T sugar
1 T salt
2 packages Felishmann's RapidRise yeast (I just use yeast from the big package 2 1/4 tsp x 2)
2 1/4 c water
1/4 c butter

Combine 2 c flour, sugar, salt and yeast in a large bowl. Heat water and butter until very warm (120 to 130 degrees). Add to dry ingredients, stirring well. Gradually stir in enough remaining flour to make a soft dough. Knead until smooth and elastic, about 8 to 10 minutes. Cover dough and let rest for 10 minutes on a lightly floured surface. Divide dough in half. Roll each half into a 12x8 inch rectangle. Beginning at short ends, roll up tightly as for jellyroll. Pinch seams and ends to seal. Place loaves seams down in greased 9x5 inch loaf pan. Cover and let rise in a warm draft free place until doubled in size, about 1 hour. Bake at 375 for 30-35 min or until done. Remove from pans and cool on wire rack. Makes 2 loaves.

I actually combine the yeast and warm water first and let it bubble, then add the other ingredients. I have issues with non-rising bread, and doing this has increased my confidence and success rate. I make this in my Kitchen Aid and it works just great.

Bountiful Baskets

2010-09-11T15:30:00.005-06:00

As I looked at my near empty produce drawer today I wished again that I had participated more regularly in Bountiful Baskets.

Bountiful Baskets is a co-op run out of Arizona. It is a great place to get a bunch of produce for a great price. The tricky part is that you have to order your basket on Monday for the following Saturday, and you also don't know what items you're going to get. The following things have to line up in order to participate: you must remember to get on the computer at 8:00pm on Monday (for UT) especially where I live because the baskets will shortly sell out, you've got to be available to pick the basket up the following Saturday, and then there is the small issue of money, $16.50 for fruits and vegies, more for add ons. This summer the stars aligned only twice for me.

6/29
cantaloupe, mini watermelon, 6 bananas, 8 nectarines, 18 brussel sprouts, 3 lbs of apples, pineapple, iceberg lettuce, broccoli, 3 tomatoes, 2 celery, 6 corn.

8/7

I'm determined to get a basket this next week. I've checked my calendar, I've got 16 bucks to my name, now I just need to remember order on Monday.

Case Lot Sales

2010-09-09T14:54:00.002-06:00

Candi, on the blog Prepared LDS Family, keeps an updated list of the case lot sale prices. She has gone to a lot of work and has invited anyone to use her list (she mentions that you can feel free to donate to her son's mission fund). Check it out for a good reference point.

Utah County Fair

2010-08-14T16:09:00.002-06:00

How's your summer? We have been having a swell time. I've done my best to help the kids have fun, without spending money we don't have. We did all we could to hit free swim parties, visit local parks, check out books from the library, and participate in discount promotions for attractions. This next week we have a couple last shin-digs lined up, one is the Utah County Fair

The kids enjoy looking at the livestock, scoring candy from the vendors, and visiting the kids area where they can do a craft. This year they are looking forward to riding three rides at the carnival. Why 3 you ask? Children 5-12 can get 3 ride tickets by completing a short book report form from Reading for Rides. You can download the form here.

Yummy Goodness

2010-06-27T17:02:00.002-06:00

I curse the day my mom introduced me to this recipe. It is so easy, tasty, and I always have the ingredients on hand.

Delicious Popcorn:

3 bags of popped microwave popcorn (take out the unpopped kernels)

1 c butter
1/2 c corn syrup
1 1/2 c sugar

Heat over medium heat until boiling. Boil for 2 1/2 minutes. Pour over popcorn on a cookie sheet.

FYI:
When I use super buttery microwave popcorn I reduce the butter to 1/2 cup.
When I don't have microwave popcorn I use the old fashioned stuff, but add a few shakes of salt to the fished product.
I dump the popcorn in my roaster pan. It has high sides so it makes less mess when I pour on the syrup.

Rice Recipes

2010-06-15T22:28:00.001-06:00

I'm marking this from a preparedness blog. Looks like some good simple rice recipes.

5 rice recipes

Bosch Mixer Contest

2010-06-07T16:12:00.002-06:00

If you're looking for a way to get the best deals on your grocery bill and want someone to make a list for you then you should look into this program called Deals to Meals. There is a two week free trial if you're interested in seeing if it's right for you. I've never followed the program because I'm comfortable with the way I do my shopping right now, but I do enjoy reading the Deals to Meals blog. I especially like the recipes she posts, since she often uses the same items from her pantry that I've got in mine.

There is a current contest right now to win a Bosch Mixer. I'm very interested in owning one of these babies. Maybe the stars will align just right, and I'll be a proud owner soon enough:)

Yummy Recipe- Black Beans

2010-06-06T17:04:00.002-06:00

I Dare You To Eat It has been cooking Cafe Rio type food for an upcoming event. She recently prepared black beans. I gave the recipe a go the other day and highly recommend it. It comes from Favorite Family Recipes.

BLACK BEANS

2 Tbsp. olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp. ground cumin
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 1/3 c. tomato juice
1 1/2 tsp. salt
2 Tbsp. fresh chopped cilantro

In a nonstick skillet, cook garlic and cumin in olive oil over medium heat until you can smell it. Add beans, tomato juice, and salt. Continually stir until heated through. Just before serving stir in the cilantro.

I used dried beans that I cooked in my crock pot.

Disney Movie Rewards

2010-06-06T16:43:00.004-06:00

Check out this sweet Disney Princess Scooter we got in the mail a month or so ago. I've been racking up Disney Movie Reward points and redeemed them for this prize. My daughter has been loving it!

Special thanks to my mom and SIL for the reward points.

If you buy a lot of Disney Movies then you should sign up for this program. Most new movies have a paper in the front cover with a code on it that you enter into the program. Here is the link: Disney Movie Rewards. You can also get points for mailing in your movie ticket stubs, though I've never done this (I don't get out much). There are also points floating around in cyberspace that you can use (movie codes are one time use, whereas others everybody can use). Hip2save had a bunch listed on her site a few months ago with a suggestion on something to redeem them for. If you haven't signed up yet you might want to.

More Summer Activities

2010-05-26T16:05:00.001-06:00

Free book from Borders.

Up to 4 free admissions to Hogle Zoo, Megaplex, or Bees Game for buying Cache Valley Cheese.

Summer Activities

2010-05-21T17:28:00.002-06:00

Kids Bowl Free at Fat Cats. This isn't completely free since shoe rentals cost an arm and a leg, but could still be fun for an occasional treat.

Kids can earn a free book at Barnes and Noble

Low Cal Ranch Dip

2010-05-21T17:24:00.002-06:00

I posting this so that I can be reminded to try it:

Health Ranch Dressing
1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
3-4 tsp of dry buttermilk ranch dressing
2-4 tbs of water (add more for a thinner ranch)

Put in blender, blend on high for 3 minutes. Stop blender and scrape the sides and blend one more time. Serve with raw veggies, or healthy crackers. Makes 4 servings.

Ranch comparisons.
Serving size for veggie dip 1/4 cup:

Regular Kraft Ranch: 300 cal, fat 32g, protein 0g, carbs 2g
Light Kraft Ranch: 154 cal, fat 14g, protein 0g, carbs 6g
My ranch: 50 cal, fat 0g, protein 7g, carbs 1g

I got this from Meals Fit for a Family

Another Homemade Cleaner

2010-05-21T17:19:00.003-06:00

Counter-top Disinfectant

2 Tbsp. ammonia
1/2 cup rubbing alcohol
1/4 cup vinegar
water

Put ammonia, alcohol and vinegar in a spray bottle and fill with water. This works especially good for counter-tops but may also be used to clean showers, toilets and sinks. Great for most cleaning needs.

Important tip: Never mix ammonia and bleach.

From Living on A Dime

Winco Bulk Prices

2010-05-14T09:30:00.002-06:00

Last week I checked out the grand opening of the Orem Winco store. I was pleased with the cheap produce and other specials I got. My favorite part though was the huge bulk foods area. My least favorite part was telling my two young kids who were with me to stop touching the bulk foods area. Anyway My Young Single Adult Life has a current list of all the bulk prices. Totally worth checking out.

Confessions

2010-05-09T16:07:00.001-06:00

I re-use zip lock baggies.

Bountiful Baskets

2010-04-17T21:44:00.004-06:00

I thought this was a great basket this week.

Cantaloupe, 9 bananas, small pineapple, 11 apples, 6 oz blackberries, 1 pt. grape tomatoes, 2 lbs carrots, romaine, 8 oz mushrooms, broccoli, swiss chard, and 20 red potatoes.

If you'd like to try this co-op, log on to Boutiful Baskets Monday after 4:00pm (for Utah peeps south of SLC). The site is always SLOW at that time, but if you don't get on there shortly after 4 then your chances of getting a basket diminish greatly.

More Homemade Cleaners

2010-04-15T10:22:00.001-06:00

These recipes are from Tightwad Mom

Eventually I'll get around to trying them out.

Multi Purpose Cleaner
2 cups of water
3 tablespoons white vinegar
1/2 tablespoon dish soap
1 tablespoon of Borax
Whisk the ingredients together in a measuring cup until Borax is dissolved. Pour into a spray bottle.
This cleaner is great for:

* greasy kitchen messes (especially stove tops)
* dirty refrigerators doors
* cleaning kitchen counter tops
* cleaning kitchen cabinets
* dirty finger prints on doors and walls
* cleaning bathroom counter tops and tubs. Your faucets will sparkle when you are done!

Disinfecting Cleaner

2 tablespoons ammonia
1/2 cup alcohol
1/4 white vinegar
2 1/2 - 3 cups water

Pour first three ingredients in a spray bottle. Add in water. Screw spray nozzle on spray bottle tightly and shake to combine ingredients.

Bountiful Baskets- For Posterity's Sake

2010-04-08T23:09:00.003-06:00

It's been a couple weeks since I've gotten a basket. Way back on March 27the I got these goodies:

Romaine, cauliflower, strawberries, pineapple, asparagus, sweet potatoes, zucchini, cucumbers, apples, bananas, and tangerines.

Homemade Cleaning Supplies

2010-04-02T15:10:00.002-06:00

I've been interested in homemade cleaning products lately. I wanted to save this recipe from The Grocery Cart Challenge to try. Hopefully I'll get to it soon so I can review it's effectiveness.

Homemade Tile and Grout Cleaner

1/2 cup baking soda
1/3 cup ammonia
1/4 cup white vinegar
7 cups warm water

Put the water and then all the other ingredients in a gallon container and shake to mix. Make sure to keep this away from anything with bleach in it. Pour into a spray bottle and spray onto tile and grout. Let sit for about 5 minutes and then wipe with a damp cloth, sponge or scrub brush. This really cuts through soap scum well too.

Springville Reams Deals

2010-03-22T14:25:00.002-06:00

Through Mar 27th:

Russet Baking Potatoes- $.29/lb
Russet Potatoes- $1.69/15lb
Small Jonathan Apples- $.39/lb
Avocados- $.79/each
Carrots- $.89/2lbs
D'anjou Pears- $.59/ea
Grapefruit- $.20/ea
Mushrooms, Sliced or Whole- $.99/8 oz
Radishes & Green Onions- $.33/bunch
Bananas- $.37/lb
Broccoli or Cauliflower- $.69/lb
Roma Tomatoes- $.79/lb
Iceberg Lettuce- $.79/ea
Navel Oranges- $.39/lb

Bountiful Baskets

2010-03-21T15:32:00.003-06:00

Yesterdays pickup included:

6 bananas
14 small apples
1 mango
1 1b of strawberries
20 tomatoes
2 asparagus bunches
2 green onion bunches
2 celery stalks
1 orange cauliflower
1 head of romaine
1 head of savoy salad
1 lb of kumquats

Ordering starts at 4:00pm on Monday for our area. Here is the link if you want to try and snag one for Saturday the 27th: Bountiful Baskets

Springville Reams Deals

2010-03-15T18:29:00.000-06:00

Here are the produce deals this week:

Celery- $.69/lb
Cucumbers- $.39/ea
Pink Grapefruit- $.34/ea
Limes- $.20/ea
Cilantro- $.25
Fresh Express Premium Romaine Salad- $.99/9 oz
Fresh Express Cello Spinach- $.99/9 oz
Fresh Express Green & Crisp Salad- $.99/9 oz
Pineapple- $.39/lb
Asparagus- $1.49/lb
Large Green Skin Avocados- $.69/ea
Green Cabbage- $.33/lb
Green Onions- $.33/bunch
Zucchini- $.59/lb

Bountiful Baskets and Reams

2010-03-11T11:21:00.002-07:00

This was last weeks haul from BB

1 1 lb strawberries, 12 oz blueberries, 13 bananas, 5 pears, Asparagus, Pineapple, cabbage, green leaf, spinach, 9 braeburn apples, and 7 zucchinis, and 8 small cucumbers.

I didn't get a basket for this week. When I got on the site on Monday it was SOOOOO slow. When I checked back on Tuesday they were all gone. Oh well. I think I will hit Reams this Saturday for their early bird special.

Early Bird Specials

SATURDAY MARCH 13TH, 2010 ONLY
6 AM – 9 AM ONLY

ALL ITEMS WHILE SUPPLIES LAST

MEAT DEPT.
•Ribeye steaks “Valley Tradition Brand”
$3.29 lb (Reg. Price 8.99 lb) limit 15 lbs
•Frozen Tilapia fillets
$1.99 lb (Reg. Price 5.99 lb) limit 20 lbs
•Frozen snow cod fillets “Pollock”
$1.50 lb (Reg. Price 3.99 lb) limit 10 lbs
•10 oz Land of Frost assorted lunch meat
2 / $ 3.00 (Reg. Price 3.29 ea) limit 8
•2.6 oz Armour Lunchmakers
$ .79 ea (Reg. Price 1.49 ea) limit 18
•16 oz Big Buy bacon
4 / $5.00 (Reg. Price 2.49 ea) limit 10

PRODUCE
•Jonathan Apples
4 lbs / $1.00 (Reg. Price 1.99 lb) limit 8 lbs
•2.5 lb Russet Potatoes
2 bags / $1.00 (Reg. Price 1.99) no limit
•Small Hass Avocadoes
4 / $1.00 (Reg. Price 1.29 ea) limit 8
•Lemons (Limit 10 )
5 / $1.00

GROCERY DEPT.
•24 pack Western Family 16.9 oz premium drinking water
2 / $5.00 (Reg. Price 3.99 ea) no limits
•9.9 – 16 oz Keebler Assorted townhouse crackers
4 / $5.00 (Reg. Price 3.99 ea) no limits
•14.5 – 16 oz Keebler assorted Sandies cookies
4 / $5.00 (Reg. Price 3.89 ea) no limits

JAXIE’S DELI
•Honey Maple sliced ham
$1.99 lb
Plus crazy specials all morning
The early bird gets the worm

Week long deals there:
Red Onions-$.69/lb
Asparagus- $.79/lb
Jonathan Apples- $.39/lb
Russet Potatoes- $.69/5lb
Red Bell Pepper-$.59/each
Fresh Express Cello Spinach- $.99/9 oz
Fresh Express Garden Salad- $.99/12 oz
Grapefruit- $.29/ea
Pineapple- $.69/lb
Small Hass Avocadoes- $.50/ea
Mini Carrots- $.99/1 lb
Lemons- $.33/ea

Shopko: Kid's Tough Promise

2010-03-05T23:23:00.002-07:00

My son was a little sad this morning when I told him to change his pants for another pair. They had ratty ends and a huge hole in the knee. He told me not to worry about the knee since all the kids at school wore pants with holes in them. Normally I'd make him wear them until the end of the year (like all the other moms, apparently) but I bought the pants at Shopko so I returned them today and exchanged them for a new pair. All for zero dollars.

Anyway, if you've got children that wear out the knees I highly recommend buying pants from Shopko since their "Kid's Tough Promise" says they will replace any clothing item that wears out before your child outgrows it. I bought 2 pairs this year for $13 each. I've replaced them both once. Great deal for me.

Sears has a similar policy.

Meals- Spinach Salad

2010-03-05T23:13:00.002-07:00

Here is a delicious Spinach Salad that I'm posting today for my SIL Julie. Her husband requested I give it to her :)

Big Bowl of Spinach (9 oz package)
1 small head of lettuce (if desired)
3/4 lb fresh mushrooms
1/2 lb bacon, cooked and crumbled
3 c. grated swiss cheese
small purple onion, sliced thinly

Toss and chill, before serving add the dressing

Dressing:
3/4 c sugar
1 1/2 Tb green onion, chopped finely
1 1/2 Tb poppy seeds
1 c oil (not olive)
1 1/2 tsp salt
3/4 tsp dry mustard
3/4 c Red Wine Vinegar

The dressing covers 2 large salad bowls, so I mix it up and use half. Add chicken breast to make it a tasty meal.

Case Lot Sale Prices

2010-03-05T16:57:00.001-07:00

Here is a link to a blog that has a list of caselot prices and comparisons. It is a great reference. Prepared LDS Family Blog

Powdered Milk

2010-03-05T16:45:00.004-07:00

I have thought of doing a post like this, especially since we had the occasion to try out 4 different varieties of powdered milk at our home over the last few months. Here is a great review from the Utah Preppers blog, which saves me from writing a big post.

Of the 4 we tried recently (Albertsons brand, LDS cannery, Morning Moo, and Country Cream), I actually liked the Albertsons brand the best followed by Country Cream. I got a screaming deal on the Albertsons milk. It was a close out deal when the store was switching over. I wish I would have known how cheap it was at the time or I would have bought all that was available. Oh well. My kids don't care for the Morning Moo at all. Anyway, for what it's worth I will probably buy a couple of the Country Cream variety again for drinking milk (to use when I can't or shouldn't go to the store) but will stock up on cannery milk when I can for long term storage as it's the best price.

Springville Reams Deals through the 6th

2010-03-01T14:02:00.000-07:00

Asparagus- $.99/lb
Large Russet potatoes- $.29/lb
Russet Potatoes- $1.59/15lb bag
Broccoli- $.69/lb
Small Texas Pink Grapefruit- $.29/ea
Lg Texas Pink Grapefruit- $.59/ea
Red, Green & Romaine Lettuce- $.59/ea
Cello Sliced or Whole Mushrooms- $.99/8 oz. pkg
Acorn, Butternut or Spaghetti Squash- $.59/lb
Cabbage- $.39/lb
Cello Carrots- $1.89/5 lb
Cauliflower- $.79/lb
Pineapple- $.79/lb
Cucumbers- $.39/ea
Green Bell Peppers- $.49/ea
Large Navel Oranges- $.39/lb

Bountiful Baskets

2010-02-28T14:37:00.004-07:00

This was yesterday's haul from Bountiful Baskets.

7 apples, 7 oranges, 2 lemons, 2 bunches of asparagus, 5 lbs potatoes, 2 lbs mini peeled carrots, 1 lb strawberries, 9 bananas, 11 pickle cucumbers, 1 head of broccoli, bunch of swiss chard, and 1 head of romaine.

If you'd like to try it out sign ups on the website start Monday at noon and go until baskets run out or 10pm Tuesday.

Springville Reams Deals

2010-02-23T13:09:00.002-07:00

These prices are good through Saturday:
Russet Potatoes- $1.49/15lbs
Fresh Express Premium Romaine Salad- $.99/9 oz
Fresh Express Green & Crisp Salad- $.99/9 oz
Fresh Express Spinach- $.99/9 oz
Grape Tomatoes- $.99/Clamshell
Large Oranges- $.33/lb
Red Potatoes- $1.50/5 lbs
Extra Large Avocado- $.69/ea
Iceberg Lettuce- $.69/ea
Pineapple- $.59/lb
Radishes & Green Onions- $.33/bunch
Small Pink Lady, Gold, Ambrosia, & Gala Apples- $.69/lb
Jumbo Yellow Onions- $.33/lb
Red Seedless Grapes- $1.29/lb
Jumbo Yams- $.59/lb
Cantaloupe- $.69/lb
Mini Peeled Carrots- $.99/1 lb
Red Onions- $.69/lb
Broccoli or Cauliflower-$.79/lb
Roma Tomatoes- $.89/lb

And on Saturday from 6-9am they have these deals:
•“CASE ONLY”Boneless skinless chicken thighs (frozen)
$1.00 lb (Reg. Price 2.99 lb) limit 40 lbs (Sold in a 20 lb case $20.00)
•91% super lean ground beef monster pack
$1.59 lb (Reg. Price 3.69 lb) limit 20 lbs
•“CASE ONLY” Fresh Boneless skinless chicken breast
$1.50 lb (Reg. Price 3.99 lb) limit 2 cases (Sold in a 40lb case $60.00)
•4 oz Ocean Eclipse assorted seafood
$.79 ea (Reg. Price 1.39 ea) limit 24
•1 oz Miceli’s string cheese
8 / $1.00 (Reg. Price .34 ea) limit 40
•10 oz Kaukana assorted cheeseballs $1.49 ea (Reg. Price 3.99 ea) limit 6

PRODUCE
•Asparagus
$ .99 lb (Reg. Price 3.99 lb) limit 4 lbs
•Large choice navel oranges
lbs/$1.00 (Reg. Price 1.99 lb) limit 8 lbs
•8 oz Cello mushrooms whole or sliced
2 / $1.00 (Reg. Price 1.99 ea) limit 4 packs

GROCERY DEPT.
•18.3 oz Betty Crocker fudge brownies $.99 ea (Reg. Price 2.19 ea) no limits
•15 oz Keebler E.L. fudge original or chips deluxe cookies
3 / $5.00 (Reg. Price 3.59 ea) no limits
•9 oz Kelloggs Assorted fruit snacks 4 / $5.00 (Reg. Price 2.89 ea) no limits

Look What I Won!

2010-02-23T12:53:00.002-07:00

Aren't these cute? They are from wesqueak.net. The giveaway was from Slavetosave's blog, and is actually the second time I've won. My other prize was 6 tickets to the aquarium in Sandy, which I won back in November.

Anyway, I could choose any We Squeak shoe. Being spend conscious I decided to get a big pair for my 4 year old which could then be passed down to my baby. Well, as the name suggest, the shoes "squeak" when you walk on them. I can imagine the squeak is a lot cuter on a baby then it is on my older son. Luckily, the squeaker is easily removed.

Slavetosave has a few open contests that you can still enter:
Bravado Designs Nursing Bra
Loreal Lash Boost
Bumbo
Cocooi Babywrap Swaddler

Look at this Deal!

2010-02-20T21:31:00.003-07:00

Baby J received these in the mail on Monday:

Two jumbo sized packages of Pampers diapers. Woo Hoo!

We are part of a diaper survey. I have to try out each package for 5 days and take a survey about them. Pretty awesome savings. This survey is through mysurvey.com, which I've been a member of for like 3 years. There are a ton of paid survey sites out there. I participate in mysurvey.com and kidzeyes.com. Periodically, I receive emails from them telling me there is a survey available. The surveys last anywhere from 3 to 20 minutes. You receive points which accumulate and then can be redeemed for prizes. I always choose the cash. Obviously I'm not earning a ton of money, but I like the $10 every now and then and the occasional free product to test.

Produce Makes Me Happy

2010-02-15T21:13:00.003-07:00

I can't express how happy it makes me to have a fridge drawer full of produce. Things are just better when I can tell my kids to grab a piece of fruit or a carrot if they're hungry.

I missed last weeks Bountiful Baskets order, but was able to visit Reams on Saturday for an "Early Bird" sale. Look at all the stuff I got for under $13.00.

I would have grabbed more oranges, but they were out. I wasn't an early enough bird apparently.

Springville Reams produce deals are advertised in the Sunday Daily Herald. If you don't get the paper you can sign up for the Savvy Shopper emails. Or you can watch for the list on my preferred website Pinching Your Pennies.

This weeks deals:
Red, Green or Gold Bell Peppers- $.50/each
Large Russet Potatoes- $.25/lb
Red & Green Seedless Grapes- $.99/lb
Cucumbers- $.33/ea
Red or Green Pears- $.89/lb
Large Oranges- $.39/lb
Red Potatoes- $2.99/20 lb
Roma Tomatoes- $.59/lb
Dole Salad Blends - $1.50
Apples- $2.99/5lbs
Carrots- $.99/2 lb
Leaf Lettuce- $.69/ea
Asparagus- $1.79/lb
Medium Yellow Onions- $.33/lb
Organic Roma Tomatoes- $.99/lb
Zucchini- $.69/lb
Cabbage- $.39/lb
Lemons- $.33/ea
Small Texas Grapefruit- $.34/ea

Look at this GREAT deal!

2010-02-15T21:00:00.003-07:00

I got all this baby food for zero dollars. That's right, absolutely free. I was lucky enough to receive this from a fellow freecycler. Three Cheers for Freecycle!

How Poor Am I?

2010-02-12T17:03:00.003-07:00

Our tough economic climate has led me to start a little game I like to call, "How poor am I?"

It goes like this:
I find that the 4 lbs of chicken legs and thighs in my freezer are freezer burnt. I ask myself, "Should I still use them?" and then the game question, "How poor am I?"
The answer this time was "yes, I still use them."

Another time:
I make macaroni and cheese and the kids I babysit do not eat it. Should I scoop it up and save it for my kids' lunch tomorrow?..."How poor am I?"
The answer this time was "no, throw it away."

The other day I purchased some Tostitos chips from Walgreens. After the store promotion and mail in rebate they would be free. The only variety available was the "hint of lime" variety. Don't ever buy them, they are disgusting. Of course I was bummed because although I'll get some money back in the future for them, I was left with time wasted and a product I couldn't use. On the package there was a product guarantee. I thought, "Should I call?" then I asked myself the question, "How poor am I?" The answer this time was, "yes." I called and explained my dissatisfaction with the "hint of lime" flavor. Today I received 2 coupons for a free product.

This led me to call: Rhodes, Kraft, and Mars to comment on their products.

I also re-use zip loc baggies. Yes I'm that poor.

:)

(Tongue and cheek- we have food to eat and can pay our bills)

Frugality Gone Bad

2010-02-08T21:34:00.003-07:00

Nobody likes a freezer burnt chicken...use it up before it goes bad. I'm just saying.

Bountiful Baskets

2010-02-07T14:15:00.002-07:00

This week's basket included:
1 Pineapple
9 Pink Lady Apples
10 Small Bananas
4 Asian Brown Pears
1 Green Leaf Lettuce
1 bunch of Asparagus
1 3pk of Garlic
7 Mandarin Oranges
1 Jicama
6 Corn on Corb
4 Small Zucchinis
1 Cauliflower

Free tickets to Disneyland

2010-02-07T13:57:00.005-07:00

As am sure you all know, this year you can earn a free ticket to Disneyland by doing certain service projects. My family made 2 fleece blankets for Project Linus. I signed up for this service the first week of January. At the time this was one of the only available service projects remotely close to me (it was the South Jordan chapter of Project Linus). There are a ton of opportunities now (closer to home too). Anyway, last week we turned in our blankets, along with some cards the boys made. Today I received my 4 tickets via email (you have to 6 or older to participate). Hurray for Disneyland!

Of course, it remains to be seen whether we'll actually make it to California. With our current economic situation it's not a possibility, but maybe by the end of the year. Even if we don't make it I'm only out $13 in fabric, 2 hours of time, and $20 in gas, all for a good cause. We can donate the tickets too, so someone else can use them if we can't.

Check out Disneyland.com for more information.

The Prudent Homemaker

2010-02-05T14:32:00.002-07:00

No it's not me, but isn't that a catchy title? I'm personally more of a "Happy Homemaker." Anyway, I've been enjoying this site:

The Prudent Homemaker

Check it out for inspiration on stocking up on food storage essentials, using up what you have stored, and all around frugality.

Interesting Blog

2010-02-02T23:13:00.001-07:00

This woman has challenged herself to not go to the grocery store for 3 months. She is 7 days into her challenge so far. It will be fun following her.

Preparing-One Day at a Time

Bountiful Baskets this week

2010-02-02T17:52:00.002-07:00

There are still some Springville slots left if anyone wants to try this out this week. Call me if you have any questions.

Bountiful Baskets

Bountiful Baskets this week

2010-01-26T16:27:00.004-07:00

Springville added baskets this week if anyone wants to try it out. The pickup is Reagan Elementary at 10:45am

Here is the link: Bountiful Baskets You can sign up on the website now until Wednesday at 10 pm.

Soups, soups, soups

2010-01-25T21:16:00.003-07:00

My 8 year old commented the other day, "We sure eat a lot of soups lately." This is largely in part to recent budget cuts but also because I love the new dutch oven pot I got for Christmas (thanks mom). I have been loving the soups though. The best part is that I've had 95% of the items in my home already so I didn't have to buy things. The following have made appearances over the last 3 weeks.

Caribbean Black Bean Soup
1 pound dried black beans
2 Tablespoons canola oil
2 medium red onions, chopped
4 jalapenos, seeded and minced (I only added one, then added more heat in my own serving)
2 Tablespoons peeled and minced ginger
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
8 cups water
2 medium sweet potatoes (about 12 oz. each ) peeled and cut into 3/4 inch pieces
1 Tablespoon dark brown sugar
2 teaspoons salt
1 bunch green onions, trimmed and thinly sliced
1 cup lightly packed fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
2 limes cut into wedges

Place beans in colander and pick through, discarding any stones or debris. Rinse beans with cold running water and drain. Transfer beans to large bowl. Add enough water to cover by 2 inches. Cover and let stand overnight. Drain and rinse beans.

In 6 quart saucepot, heat canola oil over medium heat until hot. Add onions and cook, stirring occasionally until tender, about 10 minutes. Add jalapenos, ginger, garlic, allspice and thyme and cook, stirring, 3 minutes.

Add beans and water; heat to boiling over high heat. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 1 hour and 30 minutes or until beans are almost tender.

Add sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and salt; heat to boiling over high heat. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer until beans and sweet potatoes are tender, about 30 minutes longer.

Transfer 1 cup bean mixture to blender; cover with center part of cover removed to allow steam to escape, and puree until smooth. Return to saucepot. Stir in green onions and cilantro. Serve with lime wedges to squeeze onto individual servings.

Red Potato and Ham Soup
6 red potatoes diced with skins
1 onion diced
1 cup of ham diced

1. first heat a dutch oven(large pot) over medium heat with 4 tablespoons of olive oil
2. add onion and about 1 tsp salt, saute until tender
3. Add the ham and continue to cook until brown around edges, about 8 minutes
4. Add diced potatoes and continue to cook for about 5 minutes
5. Add enough water to cover ingredients about an inch
6. Bring to a boil and simmer for about 45 minutes, until potatoes are tender
7. With a potato masher, mash the mixture and watch it thicken up. Make sure to leave some
texture.
8. Add about 2 cups 1% milk, bring back to a simmer, and it's ready to serve
9.As a garnish I add shredded cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream

I also made this with chicken which was tasty.

Chicken Tortilla Soup
I know there are a bazillion variations of this recipe. This one is tried and true though!
1 1/2 lbs cooked chicken
1 15 oz can diced tomatoes
1 10 oz can enchilada sauce
1 med onion, chopped
1 4 oz can chopped chilies
1 clove of garlic, minced
2 c water
1 14.5 oz can chicken broth
1 t ground cumin
1 t chili powder
1 t salt
1/4 t pepper
1 bay leaf
1 10 oz can corn
1 15 oz can black beans
1 T dried chopped cilantro
toppings: cheese, sour creams, lime, chips

Combine all but toppings in a crock pot. Cover and cook on low 6-8 hours or high 3-4 hours.

Bountiful Baskets

2010-01-25T12:36:00.003-07:00

I had my first experience with "co-ops" this last weekend. I participated in Bountiful Baskets.

A lot of people on PinchingYourPennies have talked about this, and it always looked appealing, but had never tried it out. Since I had a few grocery dollars to spend, and a very empty produce drawer I signed up.

The program is set up where you pay $15 for a basket of miscellaneous fruits and vegetables. This weeks basket included: 8 bananas, 7 Braeburn apples, 1 lb strawberries, 8 tangelos(?), 5 large grapefruits, 3 lbs pears, 7 red peppers, 3 zucchinis, 2 cucumbers, 10 roma tomatoes, broccoli, and a head of green leaf lettuce.

You can also purchase additional add ons. They had a "mexican basket" for $7.50 that ended up having tomatillos, onions, avocadoes, tortillas and a few other things. Also a granola packet that looked delicious and some 9 grain bread (which I ordered).

Some things I learned is that there is a one-time $3 fee and a $1.50 handling fee each time you order. No sales tax though. There are a limited amount of baskets available and you don't know what items will be included in your basket. You are also asked to occasionally volunteer. It was interesting showing up at the pick-up site, which for me was Reagan Elementary. There were a ton of people there.

Overall I was pleased with my first time experience and will sign up again in a couple weeks. Utah Deal Diva has a post on her blog about another co-op that I hope to try sometime. Check it out here: Crossroads Urban Center Co-op

Emergency Essentials Food Storage Analyzer

2010-01-12T18:46:00.000-07:00

Emergency Essentials has a pretty neat food storage tool on their Preparedness Pantry site. It is a food storage analyzer where you input the items in your food storage and the ages and genders of the members in your family. It will then tell you how long your food storage will last. You can include items in buckets, #10 cans, MRE, and even regular grocery items.

You'll be happy to know that my family of 7 has a current supply of food that will last us 114 days.

I liked the analyzer because I could see where some obvious holes in my food storage lie. I know I could use a lot more grains, more sugar, more oil, and meats. Well, from the looks of it I could use a little more of everything.

Check it out, then post about it on your blog and you can get a $10 gift card to Emergency Essentials. Happy food storage analyzing!

Free Stuff

2009-10-25T14:51:00.000-06:00

I sign up for free samples often. I usually just watch the blogs on my side list because they will announce when there is a new sample out. I also use a junk email address and I never use my real phone number, if one is required, which isn't very often.

Anyway, in the last 6 weeks I've received:
Proctor and Gamble sample pack with 4 OTC samples
Bare Naked Granola sample
2 Huggies Diaper
Parents Choice Formula sample
$5 off Luvs Coupon
Sample of Honey Nut Cheerios
Sample of Total
Sample of Kashi Cereal
Awesome Full size Lip Balm
Fancy Feast Cat food sample
3 DVDs from Fisher-Price
Stickers from Pullups
Secret Deoderant sample
Full size Oil of Olay sample
6 Tampons
8 Pads

Basically something every couple of days. It sure makes the mail a lot more fun.

Meal Plan

2009-10-25T14:50:00.001-06:00

Nothing too exciting:
Chicken Noodle Soup
Meatloaf and baked potatoes
Acapulco Casserole
Homemade pizza

2 Recipes I Love

2009-10-16T22:37:00.000-06:00

This is the recipe I use for homemade pizza crust:

Ingredients
1 pkg active dry or fresh yeast
1 tsp honey
1 cup warm water, 105-115 degrees
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp kosher salt
1 Tbs extra-virgin olive oil, plus additional for brushing

Directions
In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and honey in 1/4- cup warm water

In a mixer fitted with a dough hook, combine flour and salt. Add the oil, the yeast mixture, and the remaining 3/4c of water and mix on low speed until the dough comes cleanly away from the sides of the bowl and clusters around the dough hook, about 5 minutes.

Turn the dough out onto a clean work surface and knead by hand 2 or 3 minutes longer. The dough should be smooth and firm. Cover the dough with a clean damp towel and let it rise in a warm spot for about 30 minutes (when ready, the dough will stretch as it is lightly pulled).

Divide the dough into 4 balls, about 6 ounces each. Work each ball by pulling down the sides and tucking under the bottom of the ball. Repeat 4 or 5 times. Then on a smooth, unfloured surface, roll the ball under the palm of your hand until the top of the dough is smooth and firm, about 1 minute. Cover the dough with a damp towel and let rest 15 to 20 minutes. At this point, the balls can be wrapped in plastic and refrigerated for up to 2 days.

Place a pizza stone on the middle rack of the oven and preheat oven to 500 degrees.

To prepare each pizza, dip the ball of dough into flour, shake off excess, and stretch. Press into an 8" circle, lightly brush with oil, add toppings. Slide onto stone (I use parchment paper on the stone) and bake until pizza crust is nicely browned (10-12 minutes).

(from Wolfgang Puck)

Best Ever Chicken Fajitas
4 Tbs vegetable oil
2 Tbs lemon juice
1 1/2 tsp seasoned salt
1 1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 1/2 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
1/2 md sweet red pepper, in strips
1/2 md green pepper, in strips
4 green onions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup chopped onions

In zip-lock bag combine 2 Tbs oil, lemon juice, and seasonings. Add chicken, seal and coat, refrigerate 1-4 hrs.

In large skillet saute pepper and onion in remaining oil. Remove and keep warm. In same skillet cook chicken and marinade over med-high heat for 5-6 minutes. Return pepper mixture to chicken and heat through.

Enjoy!

Meal Plan

2009-10-09T14:21:00.001-06:00

Here is my Meal Plan for the last 3 weeks. If anything looks exciting let me know and I'll pass on a recipe.

Week 1:
Tostados
Steak and Everything Sandwiches
Chicken Parmesan
Mexican Chicken Soup

Week 2:
Chicken Enchiladas
Lasagna
Tomato Soup and Grilled Cheese
Shoyu Chicken
Meatloaf and Au Gratin Potatoes
Lima Bean and Ham Soup

Week 3:
Chicken Enchilada Casserole, Refried Beans, Spanish Rice
Spaghetti
Chicken Fajitas
BBQ Pork Sandwiches
Homemade Pizza
Chili

Win a Trip to Disneyland

2009-10-09T12:35:00.000-06:00

One day I will take my kids to Disneyland. I may leave my husband at home, since he is a hater. However, if I were to win a trip I would consent to take him. He could watch the newborn while I had fun with the boys.

Sweet Life in the Valley is having a contest for a lucky family of four (hmm, which of my kids would I leave at home?) to visit Disneyland. Here are the links with the information and entry forms: sweetlifeinthevalley andoutandaboutwiththefamily.

CityDeals.com

2009-10-06T12:43:00.000-06:00

I like to go out to eat. The problem is that I can't afford to go out to eat. The only way I can justify it is if I have a coupon, discount, or certificate of some sort.

One place I've found some great discounts is at CityDeals.com.

They sell discounted certificates to a bunch of places nearby. As you browse, you'll notice that some of the discounts aren't that great **$25 California Pizza card for $24.49** What's that about? I usually only pick up the deals that are 50% off or greater, and I only do it if they are offering free shipping, which they are right now.

A current promotion is for a $20 gift certificate to Quizno's in Provo for $10. My husband works near there, so I got one for him.

Anyway, check it out, and see if there is anything that interests you.

Menu Planning

2009-10-05T15:18:00.000-06:00

I have a confession to make. I have not been a good menu planner over the last few years. A few weeks ago some friends of mine got together to learn about menu planning. Two friends presented different ways they plan their menus. For the last three weeks I have tried out one of the plans, somewhat successfully.

6 Week Menu Plan

First: Brainstorm all the meals you make. We used the categories: beef, chicken, pork, miscellaneous, and side dishes. Ideally you are looking for 42 different meals, 6-7 of which should be super easy ones (think grilled cheese and canned tomato soup).

Second: Plug the 42 meals into a 6 week menu chart. (I only did 2 weeks worth on mine so I could try it out). Obviously you vary the types a meals per week, adding in the easy meals on your busy nights. Also, if you have a Sunday dinner tradition of mashed potatoes and roast, or Friday pizza night you wouldn't need to think of as many meals.

Third: Make a grocery list of every item you need for that weeks worth of meals. I admit I planned most of my meals by things I had on hand, so I didn't need to buy too many items.

PROS: Wide variety of meals (no more spaghetti and tacos every 3 days), know exactly what's for dinner and you have the ingredients on hand, and if there is something someone doesn't like it won't appear in the rotation for another 6 weeks.
CONS: Some meals I can't economically make on the week planned. One of the reasons I didn't plan farther than 2 weeks ahead is because I needed to reserve the right to see what items I could buy for cheap that week. (It didn't make sense to need mushrooms for a meal that would cost $2.99/8 oz when I knew I could get them for $1.00 if I could wait for a sale).

I admit I loved having a plan. I have been in a dinner rut for a long time, so it was nice to know I had 14 meals planned. I'm not sure I'm ready for a full 6 weeks though, it seems too daunting for me. I will try to plan a months worth and then switch meals around if I can't get the ingredients I need cheaply enough.

September Spending Report

2009-10-02T21:30:00.000-06:00

I spent more than I had this month: $377.45. Not what you want to hear from someone who thinks they are great at saving money. Oh well, I hope to do better in October.

Here is the spreadsheet

Blush: Your Topless Undershirt

2009-09-17T15:49:00.000-06:00

Intriguing subject, huh?

Has anyone seen my belly lately? Well, it is huge, and hard to keep covered. I'm dying to try this product by Blush.

Slave to Save is having a giveaway that I want to win. I don't believe in contests (see my regular blog about Roger Bespectacled), but for this product I think it's worth another go.

Papa Murphy's Customer Appreciation Days

2009-09-14T17:02:00.001-06:00

September 14-16 is Customer Appreciation Days at Papa Murphy's Pizza. Large pepperoni pizza's are $4.99. I've had great success freezing these then cooking 'em later, usually on Sunday when I'm craving pizza and don't want the neighbors to see a delivery car pull up to my door.

There is a limit of 3.

P.S. to date I've never ordered a pizza on Sunday.

Free Shipping at the Fisher-Price Store

2009-09-14T16:49:00.001-06:00

Does anyone else LOVE the super overpriced Fisher Price Nativity? Once upon a time you could only buy it online. I've heard people have found it in stores, but I've never seen it. Of course it is expensive, but if you've got the cash, shipping is currently free at the online store.

Through October 2 use code F27946 to get free shipping on anything from the Fisher-Price Online Store.

August Price Sheet

2009-09-09T19:59:00.001-06:00

August Spending Report

Crocs.com Buy 1 Get 1 Free

2009-09-02T12:43:00.000-06:00

The other day my husband went to Walmart to find some suitable sandals. He has been wearing fake croc sandals for the last 3 years and was ready for something new. He didn't find anything, thankfully, because the next day I saw this promotion advertised on Pinching Your Pennies.

Select crocs were Buy 1 Get 1 Free, with free shipping. I also used a 25% off code (slx8797). We ended up with 6 pairs of shoes (4 adult pairs and 2 children sizes) for about $10 a piece. Sure, not free, but WAY better than anything you'll find at Walmart. Anyway, the shoes came today and boy are they comfy. One pair doesn't fit right so I'm exchanging it at no cost (great customer service) for a larger pair.

The promotion is still going on, so if you need some crocs check it out: crocs.com

My Shameless Beg for VOTES!!

2009-08-26T13:00:00.000-06:00

Hey you guys this is my plea. Everyday from now until Sept 9th Roger Bespectacled needs your vote. He entered the Hoopes Free vision contest last month and just found out he is a finalist. Here is the link: Hoopes Vision Contest

As my dad likes to say, "Vote early and vote often." I'll add, "Vote from every computer you have, everyday, and thanks!"

Remember folks, "Roger Bespectacled Rules." (That's because he is my husband, and in the 14 years I have known him I have NEVER seen anything like this from him. He wants this bad- me too!)

GAP B1G1 free

2009-08-25T13:21:00.000-06:00

I keep reading about this great sale at the GAP. Most shirts are Buy 1 Get 1 Free, making t-shirts $5. GAP clothing have always held up well in my experience (unlike Old Navy that seem to wear a bit faster). Anyway, if I had a car and some money, I would definitely check it out, as it includes men's, women's, baby, and kids mix and match.

Here is some more information from the Krazy Coupon Lady

A Great Way to Save Money

2009-08-22T17:39:00.000-06:00

Our second car died. Most days my husband takes our van to work. As a result of being without wheels, I have saved a bunch of money.

So, if you're looking to save a buck a two consider not going to the store. I'm finding that I'm using up more of what I have on hand. (though I do miss my mobility)

:)

Couponing Can Be Fun

2009-08-09T19:01:00.000-06:00

When you live in a highly saturated coupon/deal-seeking/frugal-minded/large-family/food-storage conscious community sometimes finding the deals can be a little frustrating. I can't tell you the many times I've missed out on some rocking deals because the shelves were empty by the time I made it to the store.

Albertsons had an awesome deal going on last week and by some amazing miracle I was able to get in on the action somewhat.

Transaction #1:
7- 500 ct Q-tips $21.00- $2.10 in coupons
2- Vaseline Lotions $10- $2.50 in coupons
-$2.00 Customer Service Coupon

Total w/ tax- $26.49 and received $27 in catalina coupons!!!

Transaction #2:
7 Cake mixes- $7.00
3 Muffin Mixes- $6.00
6 Skippy PB- $12 - $2.25 in coupons
3 Ragu- $5.00 -$.90 in coupons
-$25.00 in Catalina coupons
-$2.00 Customer Service coupon
Total with Tax- $.69 and received $15 in Catalina coupons!!

Transaction #3:
6 Cake Mixes- $6.00
2 NV Nut Clusters -$5.00 - $1.50 in coupons
1 milk $1.44
2 Butter- 2.94
4 Yoplait 4 pks- $10- $4.00 in coupons
4 Vaseline Lotions- $10 - $5 in coupons
1 misc cake mix $.50
-$2.00 Customer Service coupon
-$2.00 Double Coupons
-$17.00 Catalina coupons

Total with tax $5.72 and received $18 in catalina coupons!!

So, my out of pocket cost was: $32.90. The good news is that I have $18.00 of Catalina coupons to use next time I shop. That is like paying $14.90 for all this good stuff (48 items)!!!

PS: I didn't set out to buy so many cake mixes...but they were out of the cereal and health and beauty items I really wanted.

July Spending Total

2009-08-06T15:00:00.000-06:00

$286.72

Here is a link to my spreadsheet.

Smith's Double Coupons

2009-08-03T14:07:00.000-06:00

Ever since TAMN made fun of couponers on her blog Seriously, so blessed I've hesitated to take pictures of my couponing loot. Her post just hit too close to home (for those who don't know this is a blog that makes fun of Utah Mormon mommies and their blogs).

Anyway, I don't have a picture of my loot just 2 of my rugrats holding my ginormous receipt.

Through tomorrow Smiths is doubling any coupon up to $1.00 with no limits. There were a ton of items you could get for free, but judging from the amount of women at the store this morning I seriously doubt there is much left, though I will probably make one more run tomorrow after I've gathered up Sunday's coupons.

Anyway, my total was $223.37 but went down to $51.78 after all my coupons. I scored on cheap baby food, wipes, lunch meat, cereal, hand soap, pickles, batteries, gum and pasta. I got free tuna, deodorant, yogurt, eggo waffles, and pens.

I missed out on the cheap Tide and free salad dressing, more deodorant, toothpaste, and floss.

School Supplies

2009-07-22T13:43:00.000-06:00

Does anyone else LOVE school supplies? Call me crazy but new crayons and markers with all their lids make me so happy. 'Tis the season to stock up. Here are some deals compliments of PYP.

As of 7/21

Smiths Marketplace
spiral notebooks college or wide ruled 10 for $1.00

Target 7/19 - 7/25
HP printer ink 2 pack (choose 21 & 22 or 74 & 75) $31.49
Crayola colored pencils 12 pack .88
Construction paper – 8” x 12” .88
Composition books .50
Elmer’s school glue 2-pack glue sticks .20
2 pack pink erasers .20
12” plastic rulers .20
Plastic pencil sharpener .20
Selected 1-subject spiral notebooks $1.50
Selected pencil pouches $1.50
8 ct pencils $1.50
Papermate 5 count pens $1.50
Master 2 pack locker locks $4.99
4-packs of college or wide ruled 70-sheet spiral bound notebooks for .60

Kmart OFFER VALID 7/12/09 THRU 8/1/09.
get a coupon for 15% off school supplies when you spend $50 on apparel*
KMART coupon link including FREE Scissors wyb $15 worth of school supplies

Through the 25th
BIC 10 ct. stick pens .99 use: $1/1 IP coupon = FREE!
BIC Wite-Out .99 use: .50/1 IP LINK = .49
RoseArt 12 ct. colored pencils .25
School Select brand supplies .50 (erases, pencil sharpener, etc)
School Select brand multipurpose paper 500 ct. $3.49
Marble composition books 100 sheets .50
Fashion Portfolios $1.50
Sharpie Markers 12 ct. $5
Crayola 8 ct. washable markers $2
Expo Markers 4 pk chisel tip or fine point $2.50
Avery 2" ringed binder w/view cover $1 off any
Mead Five Star notebooks
* 1 subject $1.99
* 3 subjects $3.99
* 5 subjects $4.99

Get $1 off Hanes wyb 3 BIC school supplies view Offer details
Offer valid on purchases made 7/5/09–9/12/09. Limit five (5) $1 savings per transaction. See
In-Ad coupon for FREE school scissors when you buy school supplies totaling $15 or more. View Details

Walmart 7/19 - 7/25
No rainchecks, while supplies last
prices may vary depending on location

Trapper Keeper Notebook - college or wide ruled .50
Georgia Pacific copy paper 500 sheet ream $2.50
Crayola 10 ct. Classic Markers $1.00
Crayola 12 ct. Colored Pencils $1.00
Spiral Notebook 70 pages .25 each
Elmer's Glue 4 oz. .25 -.30
Crayola 24 count .25 -.30
2 pack of Elmers Glue Sticks for .25
Theme Ruled Spiral Notebooks .15

ToysRUs 7/2 - 7/26
all Carolina Pads & Paper $1.29 - $3.99
Elmer's Glue .99 - $1.49
all Mead Back-to-School items .79 - $12.99
Fiskars School Supplies $1.99 - $2.99
40% off Imaginarium Arts and Crafts sets
50% off 12" Desk Top Globe now $9.99
all Dr. Seuss books Buy 1 Get 1 half off sale $3.99 - $24.95

Shopko

Back-to-School deals - check the Ad for prices
backpacks, school supplies, paper products

.50 sale reg prices 1.19 - 2.39
10ct BIC classic pens - limit 2
single eraser - no limit
150 ct. filler paper - limit 6
80 ct. wireless notebook - limit 6
composition notebook - limit 6
see-thru pencil box - limit 4

.99 sale reg 1.49 2.49
Scotch brand kids scissors - no limit
Academic brand kids scissors - no limit
8 ct Crayola watercolors - limit 2
10 ct Crayola markers - limit 2
12 ct Crayola colored pencils - limit 2

.20 each reg .99 - 1.49
Elmer's glue 4 oz. - limit 4
Crayola 24 ct. crayons - limit 4

Walgreens 7/19 - 7/25
.09 each (limit 12)
2 Pocket Folder
White Posterboard 22x28
#2 Pencil
Highlighter

.19 (limit 6)
Paper Mate 1.2 Prism Pens 10 pack
Paper Mate Mechanical Pencils 5 pk

Other school supplies
Pilot G2 Gel Pens 2 pk $1.00 - $1.00 Register Reward = FREE
Paper Clips 100 pack .19
Flexable or Wooden Ruler 12 in .19
10 pk Yellow Pencils .29
2 pk Pink or 15 pk cap erasers .29
Poly Binder .39
Glue 4oz .39
24 pack crayons .49
8 pk jumbo crayons .49
Scotch 4x7 to 10.5x15in Mailer .59
7 to 10 pk Clasp Envelopes .59
Crayola Colored Pencils 12 pk .99
Filler Paper 260 - 280 sheets 1.50
3 Subject Notebook 120 sheets .99

Staples in-store deal
HammerMill® Copy Plus Copy Paper, 8 1/2" x 11", Case
10 ream CASE / 5,000 sheets total

Up-Front cost $38.99
$19.99 after easy rebate of $19 ($1.99 per ream!!)

20 lb.
92 US / 104+ Euro Bright
Moisture and curl resistant
Excellent for long-term filing and important papers
Acid free will not yellow or crumble over time
99.99% Jam-Free guarantee

Normal cost by ream is $7.99 online!

Staples 7/19-7/25

Promotions
~ Buy any backpack, get 100% back in Staples Rewards. It's like getting a FREE backpack!
Limit 1 backpack per mailing address.
Purchase price paid for backpack will be credited to customer’s Staples Rewards® account. Must be a member of Staples Rewards®. Valid for purchases 7/19/09–7/25/09.

FREE After Easy Rebate - Limit 1 per household. While Supplies Last.

Zebra® Cadoozles® 0.7 mm mechanical pencils, 10/pack $2.99-$2.99 easy rebate = FREE after rebate
Zebra® Sarasa® retractable gel pens, medium, black, 5/pack $4.99-$4.99 easy rebate = FREE after rebate
Pentel® Handy Lines™ retractable assorted highlighters, 4/pack $4.99-$4.99 easy rebate = FREE after rebate
Staples® Slim-Line pencil sharpener $15.99 - $5.99 instant savings - $10 easy rebate = FREE after rebate

$1.00 items - Limit 2 per customer
Pentel Pens 5 pack
Expo dry erase markers 4 pack
Pentel Hi-Polymer Erasers 3 pack
3-Hole Punch
Staples® Perforated Mini Legal Pads
Staples® 5½" x 4" Notebook
Staples® photo supreme 8½" x 11" paper, 50/pack $12.98-$11.98 easy rebate = $1.00 after rebate

$2.00 items - Limit 2 per customer
Dry-Erase Board
Pilot Erasable Gel Pens 3-pack
12 Staples mechanical pencils
Staples Stickies adhesive notes
Staples eraser/grip combo pack

Other
Staples better binders - Buy 3, get 1 Free
Staples Graph Ruled notebooks, composition books, filler paper and pads - Buy 1, get 1 Free
Book Sox - Buy any 2 and get a 3-D Box Sox FREE instantly
Lunch Bag - Buy any $9.99 lunch bag and get a food/beverage container 50% off.

Need a Backpack? I recommend...

2009-07-16T14:04:00.001-06:00

Walgreens is selling backpacks right now. They are Buy 1 get 1 Free, so you get 2 for $9.99. They are pretty nice backpacks. They are big and durable and there are quite a few styles to choose from. If you need a couple of backpacks I recommend these. This particular sale ends Saturday, if you can't make it this week I'm sure they will feature this item again before school starts.

If you do go this week there is a $5 off $25 purchase coupon that is good today and tomorrow. Here is the link from the PYP blog about it: Walgreens Deals

PYP Contest

2009-07-09T15:03:00.001-06:00

I've written before that I'm a Pinching Your Pennies Fan. Seriously, PYP is how I hear about just about everything...coupons, deals, trends, news, you name it. What can I say? I love the community of money saving mommies. They are having a contest right now to win an ipod touch, wish me luck.

Also right now the homepage takes you to their blog. If you prefer blog outlines rather than forums now is the time to check it out.
www.pinchingyourpennies.com

June Totals

2009-06-30T21:47:00.000-06:00

I did better this month than last. My total came to $341.94. Plus, today I sent in $100 worth of rebates. Can you say AWESOME?

I got the following FREE or for SMOKING deals in June:
1 box Quaker Granola Bars- FREE
4 bottles V8 Juice- FREE
10 boxes Kashi Frozen Waffles- $.27 each
1 Kraft Mayonnaise- FREE
5 Trial size Banana Boat Sunscreen-FREE
5 Trial size Johnson & Johnson Lotion- FREE
5 Trial size St Ives Lotion-FREE
2 pkgs Kraft shredded cheese-FREE
2 3pks Treetop Apple Juice-FREE
1 Quaker Pancake Mix- FREE
2 Skippy PB- $.30 each
6 Wishbone dressing- FREE
2 All detergent- $.70 each
3 Bertolli Pasta sauce- FREE
1 Breyers ice cream- FREE
1 GM cereal- FREE
1 BC cake mix- FREE
6 pkgs Wacky Mac noodles- $.25 each
4 Kelloggs cereal FREE
1 4 pack DanActiva Yogurt- FREE
1 Digiorno Flatbread Melts- FREE
1 box Expecta Lipil Vitamins- FREE
1 Kraft BBQ Sauce- FREE
5 pkgs Chinet paper plates- $.36 each
10 cups Kraft Easy Mac- FREE (I wouldn't pay for this!)
2 boxes Planters Peanut Bars- FREE
4 bottles Propel drink- FREE
5 12 pks Diet Dr Pepper- $.60 each
3 Snyders Pretzels- FREE
1 pkg Mission Tortilla chips FREE
15 packets of Starkist Tuna fish- $.05 each

Here is my spreadsheet for the month

Mmm...Raspberry Jam

2009-06-28T15:42:00.000-06:00

The only thing better than homemade strawberry jam is raspberry jam, of course.

Last week I bought a flat of raspberries from Reams. I love raspberries. Why oh why do they have to be so expensive? Anyway, a flat of twelve 6 oz containers was $9.99. I made two batches of freezer jam and the kids and I ate the rest.

10- 6 oz cartons of raspberries= $8.30
2 pkgs of pectin= $2.90
3 cups of Sugar= $.48
30 minutes of my time that would have been wasted otherwise= $0
Total $11.68 for 9 cups of Jam ($1.30 a cup)

Free Movies at the Spanish Fork Theater

2009-06-17T13:03:00.000-06:00

The following shows are FREE:

June 16 - 18 Ice Age
June 23 - 25 Ice Age 2
June 30 - July 2 Bugs Life
July 7 - 9 Ratatouille
July 14 - 16 Lion King
July 21 - 23 Incredibles
July 28 - 30 Toy Story
August 4 - 6 Toy Story 2
August 11 - 13 Monsters Inc.
August 18 - 20 Over the Hedge

The showtimes are 10:30 and 1:30

Buy Low Market

2009-06-15T19:09:00.000-06:00

I have been under utilizing this grocery store. It is a little out of the way for me, but I was in Provo for a Dr. appointment and we were in serious need of produce so I carted the kids there. I got a great deal on peaches, red potatoes, carrots, celery, bulk pinto beans, ground beef ($.78 a pound!!) and chicken thighs.

Anyway, if you are in the Provo area go there. Wednesdays they have additional produce sales, and on Friday they have additional meat sales. On-line AD

May Spending Report

2009-06-06T15:03:00.000-06:00

I'm sad to say that I spent a lot of money on groceries in May. My excuses are: Memorial Day, Cabin trip, and soda pop. It also could have been Albertsons double coupon promotions that got me into their stores more often. You can see my price list for this month HERE.

My Grand Total was $423.53, but does not take into account the $28 of additional savings I got at the register (3 coupons for $5 off a $30 purchase, 1 coupon for $8 off a $70 purchase, and 1 coupon for $5 off a $60 purchase).

Anyway, the good news is that I got the following for screaming deals:
5 pkgs Scotts scratchy T.P.= $.15 each
2 Tostitos Salsas= FREE
5 boxes Cereal= FREE
1 Right Guard deodorant= FREE
1 Toothpaste= FREE
2 Soft scrub cleaner= FREE
6 Kraft BBQ sauce= FREE
4 Cream Cheese= FREE
1 Bayer pkg= FREE
3 Breyers ice cream= $1.00 each
7 candy bars= FREE
4 Big bags of charcoal= $2.49 each
10 lbs boneless pork chops= $3.00 total
5 12pks of diet dr pepper= $.60 each
2 12 pks 7 up= $.60 each
4 pkg Huggies diapers = $3.75 each

Albertsons Double Coupons

2009-06-01T09:09:00.000-06:00

If you get the Sunday Deseret News or Salt Lake Tribune there were 3 double coupons. In the Deseret News they were on A8 and in the Tribune they were on A10.

You Win Some You Lose Some

2009-05-29T14:46:00.001-06:00

I try pretty hard to get the best deal whenever I can. Sometimes this is not easy. However, I find that the time I put into it is often well worth it in savings.

One of my favorite deals is to use a prescription transfer coupon like this:

You can find these in the ads usually in the Sunday papers. Rite Aid often puts them out or has them at the store. The deal is, "Transfer your RX to our store and we will give you a $25 gift card." It gets tricky at times using these. You have to keep track of where your RX is and where you last transfered it. Also, the coupons are often not good on new RX, though I found a couple stores that will honor a coupon anyway, despite the wording. Back in the good ole days I use to transfer RX's between Shopko (who would accept a competitors coupon and add $2) and Albertsons (who also would accept competitors coupons plus add $5). Those days are gone as Shopko started limiting coupon usage to every 6 months and Albertsons did away with accepting competitors coupons all together. Well, despite the "inconvenience" of keeping track of transfers, policies, and available coupons I still found it worth it to play the game. After all, my RX were only $4 and I was receiving a $25 giftcard.

Today, I was not successful though. I transfered my prenatal RX from Rite Aid to ShopKo with my RX transfer coupon in hand. My total came to $10. I said, "You guys are more expensive than Walmart and RiteAid. This RX is only $4 there." The cashier re-rang my ticket and I paid and handed her my RX transfer coupon. She then informed me that they couldn't price match and take a competitors coupon as well. I totally lost today, and I'm having a hard time getting over it. Had I paid $10 for my RX I would have come up $15 ahead with the gift card. As it turned out I paid $4 and got nothing.

I'm still going to continue playing the transfer game, but I will probably be avoiding ShopKo.

One Lovely Blog Award

2009-05-29T14:36:00.000-06:00

I recently received a Lovely Blog Award from Ashley at getgroceriesforfree.com. I follow her blog by way of the reader on the right hand side of my blog. She gets some great deals.

Cream Soup Replacement

2009-05-21T08:53:00.000-06:00

I've been dying to try this recipe. I'm adding it here so that I can find it when I get around to trying it.

Cream of Chicken Condensed Soup Recipe:

• Grind: 4 T of any white bean (lima, navy, etc.) to make 5 T bean flour
• Combine: 5 T bean flour, 1 ¾ c. water , 4 t chicken bouillon into a saucepan
• Cook: On stovetop at medium temperature until thick and delicious (whisk frequently).The soup should cook in 3 minutes! (this may be longer if your grinder makes a very coarse flour).

Use this with cooked veggies and or meat for a complete meal. You can also add this to recipes calling for cream of chicken soup cans (I have found this replaces a can plus the water or milk in recipes). Food Storage Made Easy

Albertsons

2009-05-20T21:08:00.000-06:00

The ad for this week has 3 "doubler" coupons on it. There are a ton of items you can get for cheap or free when you combine your manufacturers coupons with the doubler coupons. Last week I stocked up on Breyers ice cream (my favorite) for $1.00 a carton. ($3.00 minus $1.00 manufactures coupon minus $1.00 doubler coupon = cheap bliss to my hips).

Check out this link to the tread discussing doubles on Pinching Your Pennies.

Albertsons Double Coupons

2009-05-10T10:28:00.000-06:00

Check your newspapers this morning for more Albertsons "double coupons."

Freecycle

2009-05-10T10:09:00.000-06:00

Ever heard of Freecycle? Here is there mission statement: "Our mission is to build a worldwide gifting movement that reduces waste, saves precious resources & eases the burden on our landfills while enabling our members to benefit from the strength of a larger community."

What you do is you sign up for a group in your area. FREECYCLE.ORG After you sign up (by way of Yahoo account) you can receive emails of things people are offering or looking for. If you want the item or can fulfill a request you respond to them via email. Recently I got 5 great pairs of gently used boys pants for my oldest son. I also was recently looking for a baseball mitt for my left hander and two people people offered one to me.

Freecycle is a great place to donate big items that you don't want to lug to the dump or can't give to DI. We got rid of a car, a couch, and a broken drier all on freecycle. I have also donated smaller things that I was sick of having around my house including a couple of well used baby strollers and car seats, out dated canned and boxed foods, and other miscellaneous odds and ends.

Anyway, check it out.

Pancake and Waffle Mix

2009-05-10T10:03:00.001-06:00

I was born and raised on this pancake recipe. I found it again while going through a recipe box at my mom's.

10 c all-purpose flour (I have been using 8 cups white flour and 2 cups wheat flour)
2 1/2 c instant nonfat dry milk
1/2 c sugar
1/4 c baking powder
2 T salt

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Stir together. Put in a large airtight container. Store in a cool dry place. Use within 6-8 months. Makes about 13 cups.

To make Pancakes with it:
Combine 1 1/2 c Pancake mix
1 egg
1 c water
3 T vegetable oil
let sit 5 min.

BUT...for my family, I combine 3 c Pancake mix, 1 egg, 2 c water, and 1/4 c vegetable oil. I'm going to experiment with less oil one of these days.

Enjoy!

April Totals are in....

2009-05-02T11:18:00.000-06:00

In April I spent $306.96 on all my grocery purchases.

I got the following for free or dirt cheap this month:
12 Post Shredded Wheat cereal: $.24 each
Carolina Smoked deli turkey: $.44 for 5 lbs
5 Kraft Salad Dressings: $.08 each
12 Mentos Gum: Free
5 Glaceau Vitamin Water: Free
5 Dentyne Gum: Free
5 McCormick Grill Mates: Free
2 Huggies Hand Soap: Free
3 Quaker Corn Crisps: Free
6 Post Trail Mix Crunch: Free
1 Nivea Body Wash: Free
1 Rembrandt Mouth Wash: Free
9 Bags of Halls Cough Drops: Free

Google Spread Sheet Here