B1G1, Bargains and Blessings in a "Banana"

Cloth-Diapering through Hard Water Issues

2012-02-08T16:30:00.004-05:00

We’ve been using cloth diapers (as full-time as travel andfollow-up recovery have allowed) on our Little Man for one year now. What do Ithink? I love ‘em! I love the way they fit! And we’ve experienced very fewleaks – and certainly fewer and far less dramatic than with disposables!

There have been challenges, of course, with the biggest to datebeing the “hard water” issues we encountered last summer (winter, really!) while living in South America for three months.

Besides the steps I took while still living with hard water, once I was back inthe Upstate with my regular washer and set-up, I subjected the diapers to multiple hot rinses. (We don’t have an HE machine, so “hot” for us means about 120 degrees.)

I was amazed at how “cloudy” the water looked when I first started:

This was the first hot rinse – I hadn't added any detergent.

Aftereach rinse cycle, the following “drum-full” of water looked clearer than itspredecessor had. A half dozen or so rinse cycles later, I was finally satisfied that the diapers had been thoroughlyrinsed. (I actually ran wash cycles – with no detergent – followed by rinsecycles.)

Theend result was that the diapers were much softer and fresher-smelling – leadingme to conclude that our theory was correct: The hard water had caused detergentbuild-up. And I’m very thankful that hot water rinses provided a relativelyeasy and inexpensive fix!

Eight O'Clock Coffee: Amazon Deal!

2012-02-01T14:22:00.000-05:00

My DH loves dark coffee! And the darker, the better!

Right now you can get an amazing deal from Amazon.com:

Eight O'Clock Coffee: Dark Italian Roast, Whole Bean (11.5 oz bags (Pack of 4) – $3.48 each

The 4-pack is on sale for $16.37 and qualifies for FREE Super Saver Shipping!
Select the Subscribe & Save option for an additional 15% off.
(Remember that Subscribe & Save is flexible! Per Amazon.com, you can change your order status – and even cancel your enrollment – at any time!)
Pay only $13.91 (i.e. $3.48 each bag)

Thanks, Jungle Deals & Steals!

Still bargain-shopping...

2012-01-31T16:28:00.001-05:00

Though our life of constant travel doesn't lend itself to my posting on this blog nearly as often as I used to do, I still am very much interested in finding good bargains!

Free or almost-free deals at drugstores (especially CVS, Walgreens, and Rite-Aid) are always exciting! And though I no longer post very many specifics on those, there's a lot you can learn if you're new to "CVS-ing" (or bargain-shopping in general) by clicking on my hyperlinks (or labels on the right-hand side of this blog).

Online sales through ebates and Shop at Home are also highlights. For example, I still can't get over how easy it can be to "dress for less" – especially when it comes to children's clothes.

If you live in the Upstate, you may want to check out the "Here We Grow Again!" consignment sale. The dates for the Spring & Summer Sale will be February 29 through March 3. (You can read details on the HWGA blog.)

Cloth diapering (or "CDing" to avid readers of diapering blogs!) has become another great interest of mine, and I plan to continue journaling on that topic. Using cloth may be the single greatest mode of savings for our family – even though our current life of travel isn't always conducive to CDing. (And that's why diaper deals, especially at CVS and Walgreens and Target, are still of great interest to me!)

We've been using cloth diapers for almost exactly one year now, and I'm planning to post another update soon...

Other random deals that excite our family include birthday deals – especially freebies! In fact, we're right now cashing in on some of those...

So, happy bargain-shopping!

Amazing Deals at Publix – 09/14 thru 09/20

2011-09-17T21:30:00.000-04:00

Yes, I know. I haven’t posted deals fromspecific stores in a great while. And I probably won’t do so for another while.That said, I’m especially excited about some deals this week – and I’m postingtoday for family and friends who will probably be interested...

Here are the deals:

V-8 V.Fusion Vegetable & FruitJuice (100% Juice) – B1G1 for $3.99 (i.e. $1.99 each)

Use $1.00/2 printable coupon (Findthe link here.)

$1.49 each

Cascadian Farms Organic Granola Bars – $2.99 each

Use $1.00/1 printable coupon

Stack with $1.00/1 coupon in Yellow Advantage Flier (available in store at the Customer Service Desk)

$0.99 each

Chocolate Chips aren’t “health food” – but they sure are“comfort food!” (Note the clip on one bag. Ahem!) You can take advantage of the following “Buy Theirs, Get OursFree” Deal this week:

Buy two Nestle’s Semi-Sweet Chocolate Morsels (12 oz) –$2.83 each

Get two Publix Semi-Sweet Chocolate Chips (12 oz) – FREE

Use $1.00/2 printable coupon (for Nestle’s)

OR use $0.50/2 printable coupon (for Nestle’s)

(Remember that Publix “doubles” coupons $0.50 and under.)

$1.17 each after (doubled) coupons and two FREE packs

I also took advantage of a “rain check” on an amazing dealfrom last week. This one isn’t valid this week unless you, too, got a “rain check” – but it’s the kind of deal that helps to illustrate why Publix is my all-time favorite grocery store!

Honey Nut Cheerios (21.6 oz HUGE box) – $2.99 each

Used $0.75/1 coupon (from in-home mailer)

Stacked with a $2.00/1 coupon in Yellow Advantage Flier

$1.62 each

You can find more deals (with coupon match-ups) at FiddledeedeeMom. A big “Thank-you!” to Sarah for the weekly coupon match-ups!

Dress for LESS!

2011-09-06T13:30:00.001-04:00

Dress for less by shopping at consignment sales – and by consigning clothes, too!

Upstate Readers: Don't miss the semi-annual Here We Grow Again Consignment Sale, starting tomorrow, September 7 through Saturday, September 10.

We love this sale! We've had great success dressing our children – in quality clothes – for great prices. When you consider how well name-brand clothes tend to wear, and wash (and resist stains!), and keep so that you can re-sell them, the savings are really multiplied!

Cloth-Diaper Laundering Update

2011-08-31T20:30:00.000-04:00

Whether it was the effects of hard water, detergent build-up, or ammonia that were causing our cloth diapers to smell, hot rinses and very hot washes (with minimal detergent) seemed to significantly reduce the smell.

Diapers drying in the breeze – a favorite scene!

Here's what we did:

We hauled very hot water from the shower to the washer, heated more water on the stove, and dumped the boiling (or almost boiling) water into the washer. We started with at least one cold rinse, followed by a very hot wash and two cold rinses, followed by another very hot rinse. We also reduced the amount of detergent (Charlie's Soap) to only 1 teaspoon per large load.

The smell has been significantly reduced.

A very BIG "Thank-you!" to Andrea and Julie for the advice given.

We're now back home with our own washer, so there are no longer the same hot water challenges. And we've been using disposable diapers while we recover from travel, re-acclimate, etc.

Now I'm wondering...

Do I need to do some kind of treating to remove any residue from the "hard water" the diapers were subjected to for almost three months?

FREE Medications at Publix!

2011-08-30T21:00:00.000-04:00

Upon returning from three months in South America, we learned that our Little Man had developed a sinus infection. We were awaiting new insurance cards, so I hesitated to fill the prescription for antibiotics. I really wanted to avoid the hassle of paying out of pocket and then trying to file, etc.

And then I remembered: Publix offers some medications FREE!

Yet another reason to love 'em!

Check out the details!

Chocolate Oatmeal No-Bake Cookies

2011-08-15T10:53:00.000-04:00

These quick cookies bring back favorite childhood memories of cooking with Mommy. My modified recipe uses a good bit less sugar than most.

Due to issues with the oven where we were staying during the past three months, we were limited in our baking choices. These became an even greater favorite!

Made with grated semi-sweet chocolate, these taste like "healthful" bon-bons!

Ingredients:

1 cup sugar
½ cup butter
¼ cup milk
1 cup semi sweet chocolate chips (OR 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate, coarsely grated)
2½ to 2¾ cups quick cooking oats
1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions:

In a saucepan over medium heat, mix together sugar, butter, and milk. Bring to a rolling boil, and boil for one minute, stirring constantly.

Remove from heat and mix in chocolate, oatmeal, and vanilla. (If the mix starts to get crumbly, stir in a teaspoon or two of hot water; the cookies should then set up fine.)

Drop by spoonfuls onto cookie sheets. (I often use plates.) You can refrigerate these so they get firm faster.

Enjoy!

Cloth-Diaper Laundering Questions?

2011-07-23T15:03:00.000-04:00

I've been noticing that our Little Man's cloth diapers smell – especially when he's wet.

The BumGenius diapers smell the worst. In all fairness to them, we use them on the longest stretches (nights and naps) because they hold most and best. (I've listed the variety of cloth diapers we own and use in an earlier post.)

I'm wondering...

Does "hard water" cause cloth diapers to keep a residue (of ammonia)? The diapers do smell like ammonia. The water here at the house (where we've been staying for two months and will be for another month) comes from an underground spring; it's referred to as "mineral water" and leaves white chalk-like deposits on sinks, etc.

What do you do if you don't have a "sanitize" option for wash cycles? What do you do if the washer doesn't even fill with hot water? The water in the washer here is heated as diapers sit in it. As you might imagine, a hot wash cycle takes a very long time! Could my using the quicker setting at times (with warm instead of hot water, for instance) be contributing to some kind of build-up?

Here's my cleaning routine:

We rinse the diapers right away and put them in the wet bag. We wash them (at least) every other day. We start the laundering with a cold rinse (and often two cold rinses). We wash (using Charlie's Soap) in hot water (but, as stated above, the water gets heated in the washer). The wash cycle is followed by two cold rinses. We usually dry the diapers in the dryer, but I do line dry them when our schedule and the weather permit.

We've never used bleach, fabric softeners, or any other items forbidden for cloth diapers. Once in a while, we have spot treated poo stains with Spray & Wash or an equivalent. And we have used diaper rash cream sparingly and with a barrier.

Any tips?

Paper Dolls!

2011-06-29T19:17:00.042-04:00

Traveling (with limits on luggage included with airfare) presents the challenge of how many (if any) toys to bring along. We did bring a few – very few. So, we've had to get more creative than ever, finding ways to make our own fun...

Paper has been a great tool!

A quick internet search led me to a page with three printable paper dolls – complete with outfits. (As Marilee states, these are for personal use only and may not be published or sold.)

We like the fact that these are child-appropriate paper dolls, tastefully drawn and outfitted with undergarments. We also appreciate Marilee's sharing memories of her childhood, making her own fun.

Thank-you, Marilee! We're some of the folks out there who still want to have a good time for very little money. We're also thankful for another fun opportunity to encourage our little girl to use her imagination.

“Metamorphosis”

2011-06-24T21:43:00.000-04:00

This “bargain blog” has certainly morphed many times since (inspired by Andrea’s frugal feats), I first started posting in late 2008. Topics on this blog have included coupons, miscellaneous money-saving tips, great diaper deals, product reviews, recipes, education, frugal fun, inspiration & encouragement, and (most recently) cloth diapering and teaching language(s). This blog has been, more than anything, a place to journal money-saving and educational deals and adventures. Whatever the topic, the main emphasis is still the same: wise stewardship and proper perspective of resources God is entrusting to us.

Avid couponing was an exhilarating challenge – especially with weekly “$5 off $25 Purchase” coupons for CVS! And highlights at Walgreens during the days of the Easy Saver Program included getting paid $10 to take home $250 worth of stuff – including $100 worth of diapers and $1.00 overage per tube of brand-name toothpaste! Yes, those were very exciting days! And even after giving stuff away and selling other extras at yard sales, we still have a stash of toiletries and miscellaneous household products we’re using from those days...

Couponing that avidly, however, was quickly becoming another part-time job, and – in combination with drugstores changing policies, etc. – the initial adrenalin rush and euphoria gradually wore off. Don’t get me wrong! A good B1G1 sale paired with a great coupon is still very exciting (Translation: Publix is still a favorite!), but I now do a much better job of balancing shopping with other household and family obligations than I did during those early days of engaging in the couponing game...

Some major changes along with the demands of daily life have contributed to several extended periods without posts. Right now, I’m blogging from South America where coupons (for groceries, diapers, etc.) are basically non-existent. I’m actually more excited than ever to find (creative!) ways to use resources wisely – and to encourage others to do so as well. For example, I’m thankful for opportunities to try out earlier ideas for frugal yet nutritious cooking; I’ve actually used several of my own modified recipes in the last four weeks.

All that to say... Going forward, the main emphases of posts will most probably be:

inspiration & encouragement
teaching language
frugal fun
baking / recipes
cloth diapers

Feel free to comment and share your ideas – especially if you, too, are traveling and limited in use of coupons, etc.

Book Review: "Un, Deux, Trois" (First French Rhymes)

2011-03-19T15:21:00.050-04:00

Un, Deux, Trois: First French Rhymes (Book & CD)

Now that I have my very own little disciples living at my house, I’m more excited than ever about language education and – specifically for the sake of this “bargain blog” – great finds for teaching languages to little ones.

Even if you’re not trying to teach multiple languages to little ones, feel free to keep reading. After all, reliable research proves that the best way to learn a new language is the same way you learned your first language when you were little! (You might pick up some tips for really learning that language you spent two or three years on in high school!)

Those who know me know I love languages. Having had the great privilege of growing up bilingual in South America, (Yes! I realize that fact is a great gift from God!) I’m eager for my children to grow up exposed to (or better yet “immersed in”) at least one other language.

Having majored in languages and second language education and having taught languages in a variety of settings, I’m excited to share the tips I’ve gleaned for how best to teach languages to little ones. So, this is the first of a series of posts on teaching languages to little ones – and perhaps learning the language in order to teach it!

At this point, God’s leading in our lives points to our little ones growing up bilingual like I did. However, I’m still keenly interested in their learning yet another language – partly because of the time and resources I’ve already invested in the (on-going) learning of it and partly because there are great advantages to language learning. So, I’m choosing French as the third language for my little ones.

For the sake of time, I’ll mention only one resource in this post:

Un, Deux, Trois: First French Rhymes (Book & CD)

We purchased this book and CD set three years ago from Amazon.com when our toddler was already learning both English and Spanish. As is most likely true of all very small children, she was intrigued by the sounds of another language – and the fact that Mommy actually understood what was going on! (We’ve since struggled, living in an English-speaking world, to get her to continue with both primary languages – but chronicling that will provide an abundance of material for other posts...)

Having been reminded recently that babies establish neurological paths for the specific sounds of languages surrounding them (such that they can more easily learn languages later on), I'm eagerly exposing my baby (as well as my toddler) to the sounds of French.

So, back to our book (and CD):

I like:

the inclusion of a CD
the fact that native French speakers read (and interpret) the rhymes (ensuring the absorption of correct intonation and pronunciation)
the simple, tasteful piano accompaniment (to the rhymes) on the CD
the variety of rhymes (Some are games; others are songs.)
the colorful artwork and layout of the rhymes on the pages (Click on the book to Look Inside!)

I also like the fact that the rhymes are laid out like a journey from the fields to the market place and ulimately to the house in order to help the child use the language meaningfully. Key words are illustrated and labeled throughout the book (thus providing opportunities to learn in small increments as well as larger ones), and the Guide (for teachers and parents) at the back of the book explains the rhymes and how to play some of the games, highlighting useful (idiomatic) phrases that children can use in simple conversations.

Click on the “Look Inside” feature to explore the book!

This book and CD set is currently available from Amazon.com for $9.95 and is also eligible for the 4-for-3 promotion. (Details on the Amazon.com page.)

Disclosure:

I was not compensated in any way for this review; all opinions are 100% my own. That said, I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

FREE Italian Ice at Rita's – only on 03/20

2011-03-18T15:03:00.000-04:00

Mark your calendars to celebrate March 20 – the "official" arrival of spring!

Rita's will be celebrating the day by giving away 10-oz. cups of their famous Italian Ice! Yum!

Look for a location near you!

For those in Greenville, SC: Don't forget the newer location on Pleasantburg Drive in the shopping center next to the Home Depot.

Read the details. While you're there, you may as well sign up for the Birthday Club, too!

Review: “Changing Diapers, Changing Minds”

2011-03-16T21:55:00.002-04:00

The “Changing Diapers, Changing Minds” program, offered by Jillian’s Drawers (a mom-owned company in upstate New York), is a great way to decide if cloth diapering is for your family. For a $10 program fee, you can try out a wide variety of cloth diapers for 21 days.

The $155 package (give or take $5.00, depending on what’s in stock) includes enough diapers for full-time diapering. (See a sample list below.) A quick look at the prices leads me to conclude that overall you’ll be getting the diapers at better prices than if you ordered the same ones individually elsewhere – especially considering the fact that this trial program includes free shipping.

A sample list might include:

1 Kissaluvs Fitted Diaper

1 Thirsties Duo Wrap

1 Thirsties Duo Pocket Diaper

1 Smartipants One-Size Diaper

1 Fuzzi Bunz Perfect Size Diaper

1 GroVia Shell

1 GroVia Soaker Pad

2 BumGenius V4.0 One-Size Pocket Diaper with Snaps
2 OsoCozy Indian Prefolds

2 Bleached Chinese Prefolds

1 Snappis Diaper Fastener
5 sample sheets of Flushable Liners from Imse Vimse

Basically, the program can work in one of three ways:

After 21 days, if you decide to keep all the diapers, you will be refunded the $10 program fee, thus paying only $145 (give or take $5.00) in the end.
If you decide to return all the diapers, you pay only the $10 program fee – and you will know that you gave cloth diapering a fair trial.
If you decide to keep some of the diapers and return others, you will pay the $10 program fee (plus return shipping), but you will get in-store credit for the value of the returned diapers – plus free shipping on your next order from Jillian’s Drawers.

I chose the third option, returning over half of the cloth diapers we tried out. Only one was a matter of definite dislike, others were a matter of preference given our current life of travel, and still others would soon be outgrown. (Because our tall “Little Man” tends to be right on the top edge of fitted diaper sizes, the “one size” options seem better for us.)

In my opinion, the greatest benefit of this “Changing Diapers, Changing Minds” program is that it allows potential customers (like me!) to honestly try cloth diapering – without paying bunches in shipping and handling – in order to find out:

1. whether or not cloth diapering will work in the first place, and

2. which diaper styles we like and which ones we don’t.

So, in a nutshell: How did “Changing Diapers, Changing Minds” work for me?

I became persuaded that cloth diapers are much better than disposable. They’re not just frugal, they’re also fun! Today’s cloth diapers come in a great variety of colors and styles.

You can read more about how I grew to love cloth diapering in previous posts:

We’re cloth diapering full-time!

How’s it goin’ – with cloth diapers?

How’s cloth diapering goin’?

Working on building a stash of cloth diapers

Working on building a stash of cloth diapers...

2011-03-15T21:45:00.002-04:00

Previous to our very messy adventures (during a return to disposable diapers), we had made diapering with only six cloth diapers work because we were on our own for a week and had easy access to laundry equipment. That experiment, however, emphasized the necessity of having enough cloth diapers on hand to make laundering more efficient; we were washing a small load of diapers every day that week.

And that brings me back to the Changing Diapers, Changing Minds Program...

I did end up returning over half of the cloth diapers we tried out. Only one was a matter of definite dislike, others were a matter of preference given our current life of travel, and still others would soon be outgrown. (Because our tall “Little Man” tends to be right on the top edge of fitted diaper sizes, the “one size” options seem better for us overall.)

At the end of the 21-day trial period, I decided to keep:

the SmartiPants pocket diaper (with one microfleece insert)
the two BumGenius pocket diapers (with double microfleece inserts)
the KissaLuvs (insert only)

In my opinion, the greatest benefit of this Changing Diapers, Changing Minds Program is that it allows potential customers (like me!) to honestly try cloth diapering – without paying bunches in shipping and handling – in order to find out:

1. whether or not cloth diapering will work in the first place, and
2. which diaper styles we like and which ones we don’t.

So, here’s how “Changing Diapers, Changing Minds” is working out for me:

I started with $150, given as a gift. My goal has been to stick as close as possible to that sum. I paid the $10 program fee plus $10 in shipping to return unwanted diapers via an insured service; Jillian’s Drawers gave me in-store credit for the returns – plus free shipping on my next order. I was excited to discover that “gently used” diapers are resold at reduced prices. (What a smart idea!)

Per Jillian’s Drawers, all “gently used” items have been used for 30 days or less and can be returned within seven days of receipt. Diapers in “excellent condition” have been used for four weeks or less and have no visible staining.

I plan to use the $76 in credit to buy the following gently-used diapers:

one more SmartiPants (One Size) – $11.75
one Thirsties Duo Diaper (Size 2) – $13.25
one FuzziBuns (Medium) – $13.50

I also ordered the Diaper Cover Sampler (Medium) – $42.95

one Bummis Super Whisper Wrap
one Prorap Classic Diaper Cover
one Thirsties Diaper Cover (the newest version)
one Imse Vimse Organic Diaper Cover

(Since the gently-used Thirsties Duo Wraps were out of stock, I'm glad I discovered this option which is actually better value! I plan to use these covers with the KissaLuvs and the prefolds I already have.)

I’m thinking that the Thirsties Duo Diaper (with Velcro tabs) and FuzziBuns (“fitted”) will be the best options for babysitters or grandparents, etc. who may be unfamiliar with modern cloth diapers (in other words, folks who probably won’t want to try to figure out adjustable snaps, etc. while trying to get a diaper on a wriggling baby!)

When the used diapers arrive, I’ll have a total of (at least) thirteen combinations – in addition to a stack of prefolds (previously given to me) that can be stuffed into the diaper covers. I should then be “all set” with enough to cloth diaper full-time, washing larger loads of diapers every third day (or so). As I found out last week, it’s hard to maximize on the money-saving potential of cloth diapering when you have to wash small loads every day...

Stay tuned for a detailed review of the Changing Diapers, Changing Minds Program...

To cloth diaper while traveling – or not?

2011-03-14T22:01:00.054-04:00

That is the question!

We switched to disposable diapers for a few days when our travels took us where laundering would be hard to predict... However! Our Little Man had so many “blow-outs” in the church nursery – at least once during every service (except one!) at a three-day missions conference – that I was repeatedly wishing he’d been wearing cloth...

We have yet to experience a “blow-out” with cloth diapers! (Gotta love ‘em!) So! Due to the messy experiences of this past weekend, I’m seriously considering using cloth diapers on the road. The big question will be a place to launder them. As those who cloth-diaper full-time know, you can only go so long with a bag of wet and dirty diapers!

I'd appreciate any insight from full-time cloth-diapering moms – especially any who are traveling (full-time).

How's cloth diapering goin'?

2011-03-10T18:20:00.003-05:00

As much as travel has allowed, I’ve been working on cloth diapering – using the six cloth diapers I have on hand:

the two BumGenius (from the Changing Diapers, Changing Minds trial package)
the SmartiPants (from the Changing Diapers, Changing Minds trial package)
three BumGenius (from Diapers.com)
(A $10 certificate redeemed from Pampers Gifts to Grow points helped pay for these!)

Our “diaper pail” has been a very frugal version of a “wet bag” – i.e. a giant-sized Ziploc bag!

I’ve been finding diaper liners to be a great help. If unsoiled, these can be washed and reused, too!

For laundering, I started with Arm & Hammer Sensitive Detergent (because I had some on hand). It worked well. Following a friend’s recommendation, I later took advantage of a $10 coupon for Soap.com and was able to get a tub of Charlie’s Soap for $5.00! My little ones tend to have sensitive skin, so this is an especially great product for our family.

Six diapers – with a place to launder them – have worked okay, and I was even brave enough to keep a cloth diaper on “Chubbs” for a Wednesday evening service at a church we visited. I figured I would forewarn the ladies in the nursery when I signed him in, asking them to page me if they were not comfortable with the idea of changing a cloth diaper. (As it was, I ended up in the nursery with him, so I was the one on-hand to change him anyway...)

Stay tuned for a detailed review of the Changing Diapers, Changing Minds Program...

Zulily Deals: Seersucker Dresses for $11.99

2011-03-07T19:54:00.000-05:00

I'm excited about Zulily, a fabulous new online store offering daily sales at up to 90% off on top-quality apparel, gear, and other goodies for moms, babies, and kids!

Today's deal (good through 6:00 a.m. PST on 03/10/11) includes seersucker dresses for $11.99! These are great for summer travel!

Isn't this one cute?!

Sizes range from 0-3M up to 6X.

Use the following coupon codes to save even more on your order:

GA1189 – $5.00 off $50 purchase

GA9331 – $5.00 off $50 purchase

COUPCAB316 – 10% off $30 purchase

Membership for zulily is free! Check 'em out!

(Thanks, Fiddledeedee Mom!)

How's it goin' – with cloth diapers?

2011-02-11T15:22:00.004-05:00

I posted a picture and detailed list of the cloth diapers included in the Changing Diapers, Changing Minds Program in my previous post. I probably should feel embarrassed that I'm so excited about the colors of cloth diapers – but it's exciting to be excited about something so mundane and routine but necessary...

Here's what we're learning so far...

We don't really like:

The GroVia Diaper: The insert is bulky; the fabric is stiff, and Baby seemed to be uncomfortable in the diaper.
The Prefolds: We tried one of the (four) prefolds once, and Daddy wondered why we'd fight to get it folded and put on just right when the pocket diapers are so simple?! (We're also on the road a lot and don't need the risk of leaks prefolds tend to represent.)

So, we're planning to return the four prefolds and Snappy fastener as well as the GroVia diaper wrap and liner. According to instructions sent with the package, I can get store credit for items I return – and I plan to use that amount to get a couple more of the brands we're really liking! (Keep reading!)

We like:

The BumGenius, SmartiPants, FuzziBunz, and Thirsties – all the Pocket Diapers: We really like all these. It's hard to pick a favorite...
We're learning that the BumGenius (with two inserts) are best for night-time and naps. The record for us so far has been 14 hours non-stop at night! We're loving not having to change a diaper in the middle of the night when we're groggy...

However! I also learned that I should not be trying to go all night with a cloth diaper – when Baby puts poo in it. We did once (I could smell the poo while I nursed!), and our poor little guy got a very bad diaper rash – his first ever – on his legs. (And I felt terrible!) Amazingly, the diaper (BumGenius with two inserts) still didn't leak! But the elastic bands rubbed his chunky thighs, resulting in a pretty serious rash. Since rash creams can reduce the absorbency of cloth diapers, I took a break for two full days, giving the affected skin time to heal. (Thankfully, it healed nicely with Dr. Selby's Crema Curativa, a "miracle cream" from back home in Uruguay...)

We started back to cloth diapering this morning, using Caldesene Baby Powder as insurance on the thigh area. So far, so good!

We're living and learning... (That's why we signed up for the trial run, eh?)

FREE Dinner at EarthFare with $10 Purchase

2011-02-11T12:30:00.002-05:00

Sign up on the new EarthFare.com to receive the weekly email newsletter, and get a coupon for the makings of a free dinner (with a $10 purchase at your local EarthFare)!

The dinner includes:

Rustic Mashed Potatoes (16 oz container from deli)
Organic Baby Carrots (16 oz bag from produce dept)
Fresh Whole Chicken (1 from meat dept) OR Veggie Burgers (1 box from freezer)

Since you have to spend $10, you can look at this (healthy!) deal as a B1G1 deal...

Laughter: The BEST Medicine!

2011-02-04T15:12:00.005-05:00

At least laughter would work much better than these supposed "remedies" from the 1800s!

Click on the picture to view a larger version.

The hilarious collection of ads from various old newspapers was part of the decor in a fast-food restaurant we recently visited.

What do you think?!

I'm joining Sharon and friends at Good, True & Beautiful...
Just for the JOY of It!

We're cloth diapering full-time!

2011-02-04T11:43:00.003-05:00

Yep! The package arrived just in time for us to take it on vacation with us. I'm excited because the condo unit where we're staying has a washer and drier, making my experiment that much easier – and more frugal!

Here's what's included in the Changing Diapers, Changing Minds Program for this cloth diaper trial:

I must admit that I'm loving the cool colors!

Baby seems to be enjoying the experience, too!

1 Kissaluvs Fitted Diaper (green)
1 Thirsties Duo Wrap (meadow)
1 Thirsties Duo Pocket Diaper (mango)
1 Smartipants One-Size Diaper (aqua breeze)
1 Fuzzi Bunz Perfect Size Diaper (chocolate truffle)
1 BumGenius V4.0 One-Size Pocket Diaper with Snaps (moonbeam)
1 BumGenius V4.0 One-Size Pocket Diaper with Snaps (grasshopper green)
1 GroVia Shell ONLY (vanilla)
1 GroVia Organic Cotton Soaker Pad
1 Snappis Diaper Fastener (pastel blue)
2 OsoCozy Indian Prefolds
2 Bleached Chinese Prefolds
5 sample sheets of Flushable Liners from Imse Vimse

Previous to starting the experiment, we were having blow-outs with disposable diapers every time Baby put poo in his pants. We were concluding that he needed the next size up which, unfortunately, we did not have with us. Yes, our Little Man is tall for his age...

UH, OH! (Again?!)

So, I started this cloth diapering experience with a bit of hesitation... BUT we've been very pleased with the fact that none of the cloth diapers have leaked so far! And I'm being very daring, too. For example, Baby wore one of the BumGenius diaper with double inserts for 14 hours last night – and still no leaks! Even Daddy, who consistently helps with diaper changes, is impressed. And we're becoming more and more impressed, using cloth diapers even when we're out and about...

Stay tuned...

Amazon Mom: Pampers Diapers 30% off + free shipping!

2011-01-27T11:33:00.006-05:00

I'm waiting for my package of cloth diapers to arrive... (Yes, I know I "just" ordered it, but I'm excited about this new adventure!)

Meanwhile, I'm still keeping an eye out for good disposable diaper deals. (We'll still need those when we travel...) So, I was excited to discover the benefits of Amazon Mom* – a great FREE program for caregivers of children!

Amazon Mom currently has a good deal going on select packs of Pampers diapers: Pampers Cruisers Diapers (Size 3, 160 Count), for example, which are 16% off!

Plus, you can get 30% more off! Here's how:

Sign up for Amazon Mom. (It's free!) You'll automatically qualify for a 15% discount off your diaper order plus free two-day Amazon Prime shipping.
Then select the Subscribe & Save option to get an additional 15% off. (Subscribe & Save is flexible! Per Amazon.com, you can change your order status – and even cancel your enrollment – at any time!)

Right now, you can also use the 20% off (one-time use) coupon code (expiring 02/28/11) from the December issues of either American Baby or Parenting Early Years to make the deal even better!

And if you pay the remaining balance with Amazon.com gift cards earned through Swagbucks, you can really sweeten the deal! (Read my posts on Swagbucks to find out how that works.)

*Here's how Amazon Mom works:

Sign up and get three free months of Amazon Prime – i.e. free two-day shipping on most Amazon.com orders (with no minimum order amount required)!
Get 30% off diaper orders by using the Subscribe & Save delivery feature.
Earn an extra month of Amazon Prime with each $25 order from the Baby Store.

new adventures

2011-01-21T23:25:00.020-05:00

LONG time no post...

It's not that I haven't been bargain-hunting...

We've been traveling, preparing for ministry on the foreign mission field.
AND our Good Shepherd blessed us with our second (big!) Bundle of Joy at the end of October!

So, I'm more interested than ever in finding good bargains – especially good diaper deals! But priorities have taken precedence over blogging about bargains.

And I'm about to embark on a new frugal adventure: Cloth diapering! Full time! (Or at least as full-time as "full-time" travel will allow!) And I'm excited!

I took advantage of an offer from Jillian's Drawers that was just too good to let pass...

And I'm now waiting (rather impatiently!) for my package of diapers to arrive...

My friend Julie (at A Year with Mom and Dad) was very kind to review the offer for me! (Thanks, friend!) Basically, I'm going to be able to try out a variety of cloth diapers risk free! (And I am getting a little bit of savings over what I would pay if I ordered each diaper individually.)

I'm planning to chronicle my new diaper adventures here. So, stay tuned...

Diaper Deal at Rite Aid!

2010-09-23T21:45:00.004-04:00

For the Mommas posted details about the great diaper deal going on at Rite Aid this week!

Here's how the deal worked for me in Greenville, where most stores are being remodeled as they merge with Save-a-Lot:

(All printable coupon links are posted at For the Mommas.)

Buy three jumbo packs of Huggies Diapers – $10.99 each
Use $5.00 off $25 Purchase Video Values Coupon
Stack with two $3.00/1 printable coupons
Stack with $3.00/1 coupon (from a recent mailer)
Stack with $1.00/1 Huggies Video Values Coupon
Pay $17.97 (plus tax) after coupons
Get $2.00 UPRs per pack of diapers ($6.00 UPRs total!)
Submit for SCR #70 and get $10.00 Rite Aid Gift Card in the mail

My total came to $1.22 per jumbo pack of diapers (including tax) after coupons, UPRs, and gift card.

What a deal!

Rite Aid Deals 08/29 thru 09/04

2010-08-31T13:00:00.003-04:00

Rite Aid has some great advertised deals this week. And don't forget that many stores are also reducing a lot of merchandise 50% due to remodeling!

These are the deals that most interest me:

Nivea Lip Care – $2.99 each
Get $1.99 SCR
Get $1.00 UPR
Use $1.00/1 coupon (September All You Magazine)
FREE plus overage after SCR, UPR, and coupon

Pantene Restore Beautiful Lengths Hair Care – $4.00 each

Get $2.00 UPR
Use $2.00/1 coupon (08/29 P&G)
FREE after coupon and UPR

Pampers Jumbo Pack Diapers – $8.99 each
Get $2.00 UPR
Use $3.00/1 coupon (VocalPoint, expires 08/31/10)
$3.99 after UPR and coupon

You can see more deals with coupon match-ups at For the Mommas.

Walgreens Deals – 08/29 thru 09/04

2010-08-31T12:40:00.002-04:00

There are some good-looking Register Reward deals at Walgreens this week. The following one especially catches my eye:

Buy two Soft Soap Body Wash or Irish Spring Body Wash – $3.50 each

Get $5.00 Register Rewards
Use $1.00/1 coupon (September All You Magazine)
$0.50 each after coupon and RRs

You can see more deals with coupon match-ups at Money Saving Mom.

CVS Deals – 08/29 thru 09/04

2010-08-31T12:25:00.000-04:00

There are some good grocery deals at CVS this week!

Nescafe Taster’s Choice – $1.00 each
Buy two and use B1G1 printable coupon
Also use $0.75/1 printable coupon
$0.25 for two after coupons

Campbell’s Condensed Soups – $0.50 each (Limit 10)
Buy two and use $0.50/2 printable coupon
$0.25 each after coupon

You can see more deals with coupon match-ups at The Thrifty Mama.

Basic Economics!

2010-08-27T18:50:00.000-04:00

On the way home from the grocery store one evening last week, I found myself trying to explain basic economics to my four-and-a-half-year-old, including the Scriptures' admonition to work.

I asked: "How do Mommy and Daddy buy food?"

Without even a moment's hesitation, she replied: "With coupons!"

I had to laugh right out loud!

And after the deals at CVS, Walgreens, and (especially!) Rite Aid this week, I can see where she gets that idea... (And all deals are good until Saturday!)

It's been awhile, but I'm again joining Sharon at Good, True, and Beautiful – Just for the Joy of It – sharing one of those little moments in life that brings a big smile!

Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins

2010-08-25T19:27:00.021-04:00

This is my adapted “healthful” version of a friend’s recipe.

These have quickly become a favorite! After all, everything’s better with chocolate – especially dark chocolate!

In a mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1 cup whole wheat flour
¾ cup bread flour
2 Tbsp ground flax seed
¼ cup sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt

In another mixing bowl, combine the following ingredients:
1 egg
½ cup vegetable oil
½ cup plain yogurt
1 tsp vanilla

Stir wet ingredients into dry ingredients just until moistened.

Fold in:
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
¾ cup chocolate chips

Fill greased or paper-lined muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 350 degrees for 22 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Cool for five minutes before removing from pans to wire racks.

This recipe makes 12 to 16 muffins.

Enjoy!

Hurrah for Rite Aid!

2010-08-24T20:15:00.000-04:00

This seems to be the season for deals at Rite Aid – especially if stores in your vicinity are remodeling and have reduced many items by 50%!

I ended up going to one store for the Huggies diapers deal and then to two other stores for the bathroom tissue deal. (I was told by one manager that Rite Aid will be merging with Save-a-Lot.) The up side of the remodeling is the 50% off! The down side is that some items are out of stock. That was the case when I went looking for the bathroom tissue deal today.

I ended up modifying my hopeful scenario, finding reduced items for which I also had coupons in order to use the $5 off $25 purchase Rite Aid coupon at the first store, and then buying the rest of the bathroom tissue needed to complete that deal (and qualify for $10 in rebates!) at the second store.

The end result was all of this for only $8.73 – after coupons, store rewards, rebates, discounts, and a $10 gift card from an earlier diaper deal!

If I had remembered to stack another $0.50 coupon and use the $2.00 +UP Rewards from the diaper deal, I could have reduced the "out of pocket" by that much more!

And the manager at one store told me to check back next week for even more deals!

Rite Aid Deals – 08/22 thru 08/28

2010-08-23T10:30:00.000-04:00

This is looking like a Visit All Three Drugstores Week!

Rite Aid has great deals going on both diapers and toilet paper:

Huggies Jumbo Pack, Pull-Ups, or Goodnights – $8.99 each
Get $2.00 +UP Rewards
Use $2.50/1 coupon (from recent mailer)
OR use $2.00/1 printable coupon
Stack with $2.00/1 Rite Aid August Video Values coupon
$2.49 or $2.99 after coupons and +UPR

Buy four Cottonelle Bathroom Tissue – $6.49 each
Use $5 off $25 purchase Rite Aid coupon*
Stack with two $0.50/1 coupons (SmartSource 08/15)
Stack with $1.00/1 coupon (All You, July 2010)
Stack with $1.00/1 Rite Aid August Video Values coupon
Submit for Single Check Rebate #10 and get $5.00
Submit for Single Check Rebate #148 and get another $5.00
$1.99 each after coupons and SCRs
(Get an even better deal by using more SmartSource coupons – if you have them!)

*Watch twenty Rite Aid Video Values (averaging 30 seconds each) and earn a $5 off $25 purchase coupon (expires 08/28/10).

You can see more deals with coupon match-ups at For the Mommas. She also explains Rite Aid's new +UP program and provides a link to Rite Aid's new coupon policy.

Walgreens Deals – 08/22 thru 08/28

2010-08-23T10:13:00.000-04:00

One main deal gets my attention at Walgreens this week!

Buy two Kellogg’s Cereals – $2.50 each
Get $2.00 RRs
Use $1.00/2 printable coupon
$1.00 each after coupon and RRs

You can see more deals with coupon match-ups at Common Sense with Money.

CVS Deals – 08/22 thru 08/28

2010-08-23T10:08:00.000-04:00

The “money maker” deal I’m interested in at CVS this week looks like a repeat from last week! It’s a good deal if you’re just getting started at CVS or are trying to (re)build a stash of ECBs.

Blink Gel Tears – $7.99
Get $7.99 ECBs (Limit 1)
Use $1.50/1 printable coupon
FREE plus overage after coupon and ECBs

You can see more deals with coupon match-ups at The Thrifty Mama.

Join the Baby Club at Publix Supermarkets!

2010-08-17T17:10:00.000-04:00

Those who live in the southeastern United States* and are expecting a baby (or already have one who is under two years old), are eligible to join the Publix Baby Club! Membership is free and benefits include coupons, newsletters (with miscellaneous parenting advice, quick and easy recipes, etc.), and for first-time parents a free book: Caring for Your Baby and Young Child ($20 value) from the Academy of Pediatrics.

I'm a returning member, and here are the great deals I got just yesterday!

All items (except two which were part of B1G1 deals) were free!

You can also sign up for the Publix Preschool Pals Club.

*Grandparents who live in southeastern States (including FL, GA, SC, AL, or TN) can also sign up for their grandchildren!

Huggies Little Movers Jeans Deal at CVS!

2010-08-16T21:53:00.000-04:00

Aren't these cute?!

Be sure to scan your Extra Care Card when you go to CVS; I did so this evening and got a $4.00/1 coupon for Huggies Little Movers Jeans – currently on sale!

Here's the deal:

Buy two Huggies Little Movers Jeans – $8.99 each
Use $4.00/1 CVS coupon
Stack with $3.50/2 printable coupon (links here)
$5.24 each after coupons when you buy two

Because I have a coupon from a recent mailer, I'm planning to get an even better deal!

Buy one Huggies Little Movers Jeans – $8.99 each
Use $4.00/1 CVS coupon
Stack with $2.50/1 coupon (from recent mailer)
$2.49 after coupons

Gotta love CVS!

CVS Deals – 08/15 thru 08/21

2010-08-16T19:38:00.001-04:00

Well, it's been a long while since I've been in a CVS. (They didn't have them out west where we were traveling for six weeks...) So, I'm looking forward to getting some deals this week! I'll probably make several trips so I can better maximize the ECBs.

Blink Tears Drops – $8.99
Get $8.99 ECBs (Limit 1)
Use $1.50/1 printable coupon
OR use $1.00/1 coupon (RedPlum 08/15)
FREE plus overage after coupon and ECBs

Kellogg’s Cereals – three for $10
Get $5.00 ECBs (Limit 1)
Use $0.75/1 plus $1.00/2 printable coupons
OR use $1.00/3 coupon (RedPlum 08/01)
$1.08 or $1.33 each after coupons and ECBs

I'm keeping it simple this week since I'm essentially starting from scratch and building up ECBs once again...

You can see more deals with coupon match-ups (including a diaper deal!) posted by The Thrifty Mama.

FREE lunch tote from Earth Fare

2010-08-11T11:01:00.001-04:00

The challenge starts on Wednesday, August 11, and ends on Friday, September 17.

Besides the lunch tote, you'll also be able to get other free products throughout the challenge!

FREE Aveeno products at CVS!

2010-06-28T14:10:00.001-04:00

There's a great deal on Aveeno products at CVS this week:

Buy $25 of Aveeno Products – starting at $6.49 each
Get $10 ECBs (Limit 1)
Buy four Aveeno products – $6.49 each
Use four $1.50/1 printable coupons
Submit for $10 mail-in rebate
FREE after ECBs, coupons, and rebate

Check out The Thrifty Mama for more deals at CVS this week!

Swagbucks Update!

2010-06-25T11:49:00.010-04:00

Don't miss out on the opportunity to get free gift cards; do your internet searches via Swagbucks! Right now, 450 Swag Bucks can get you a $5.00 Amazon.com gift card! Other gift card options include Target and Starbucks.

New to Swagbucks? Read more here, and then click here to sign up and start earning prizes!

I'm getting ready to place another order for FREE books!

Also keep in mind that Friday is Mega Swag Buck Day; you can earn extra Swag Bucks when you do your regular web searches via Swagbucks.

Here are other ideas for earning Swag Bucks:

Download the Swagbucks toolbar! You can search more easily and be automatically rewarded with an extra Swag Buck here and there. You'll have opportunity to receive special codes as well.
Click on the Surveys tab on the Swagbucks site and answer the survey questions.
Click on the Special Offers tab; at the end of the offers you will receive bonus Swag Bucks just for viewing those offers.
Click on the Polls tab to answer a quick question and earn a Swag Buck.
Get 50 bonus Swag Bucks on your birthday! Go to Account Details and enter your birthdate. The 50 bonus Swag Bucks will post to your account on your special day!

Click here to sign up and start earning points for prizes! You can learn more about how you can earn free books and lunches (like I have done) by clicking here.

Huggies Diaper & Wipes Deal at Target!

2010-06-23T22:03:00.018-04:00

So glad I didn't start getting rid of my stash of bargain-acquired diapers! I'm now back to stock-piling 'em – looking forward to October!

Here's a great diaper and wipes deal, currently going on at Target:
(Thanks, MoneySavingMom!)

Buy one Jumbo Pack of Huggies Diapers – $8.99 each
* Buy one (320-count) Box of Huggies Wipes – $8.99 each
Use $3.00/1 Huggies Diapers printable coupon
Use $2.00/1 Huggies Wipes printable coupon
Stack with $3.50/2 Huggies Diapers & Wipes Target coupon
Pay $4.74 each after coupons (before tax)

* Since the Target I went to did not have 320-count boxes of wipes, I was allowed to substitute the 216-count bag ($5.99 each) and get an even better deal!

Eating from the Pantry: Again!

2010-06-17T20:24:00.000-04:00

Well, we’re back – and back to Eating from the Pantry, trying to stretch our bucks and see how long we can make the stock pile (and creativity!) last… Other than spending about $9.00 at Aldi for milk, eggs, and fresh fruits and vegetables when we returned, we’ve been eating from the cupboards and freezer. (The fridge was basically empty when we got home, and the cereal stash in this picture has basically been depleted.)

Here’s the menu for last weekend and this week:

June 12 thru 20

Breakfasts:
Oatmeal (with ground flax seed, honey, and milk)
Homemade Apple Cider
Cereal
Scrambled or Fried Eggs, Toasted Sweet Butter Bread or Honey Oatmeal Bread
(Check out the new and improved recipe for the Honey Oatmeal Bread!)

Lunches:
Sat & Sun: Lunch with extended family…
M: Whole Grain Spaghetti with Meatball Sauce, Green Beans, Tomatoes, Cantaloupe
T: Lunch with friends…
W: Whole Grain Spaghetti with Meatball Sauce, Tomatoes
Th: Egg Salad Sandwiches, Bananas
F: Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwiches, Cantaloupe, Mandarin Oranges
Sat & Sun: Leftovers

Suppers:
Sat: Leftover Pizza (from our trip), Cantaloupe
Sun: Snacks
M: Late lunch doubled as supper…
T: Late lunch doubled as supper, with a Cantaloupe Snack before bed
W: Late lunch doubled as supper, with a Cantaloupe and Cookie Snack after church
Th: Whole Grain Spaghetti with Sausage Sauce, Chopped Spinach, Tomatoes, Fresh Berry Pie topped with FREE IceDream from Chick-fil-A!
(The pie included black raspberries, wild blackberries, and mulberries from our back yard, plus blueberries from Aldi.)
F: Tuna Noodle Casserole, Fruit
Sat & Sun: Leftovers

I'll most likely be getting more creative in the next two weeks...

Any ideas on how to maximize savings while on the road???

2010-06-17T11:26:00.000-04:00

As missionary deputees, we've been traveling many, many miles since mid-April. The bargain-hunting has not ceased, however! If anything, we're more conscious than ever of the need to be wise stewards of the resources God is entrusting to us. But the scenario is different on the road – especially when internet and a printer are not always available to access those awesome high-value coupons!

Most of the time our housing needs are taken care of, but eating frugally – AND healthfully – can be far more challenging, and especially with a little one on the way! The "value menus" can certainly be a blessing to the "on the road" budget; our goal has been $5.00 or less per meal for our family of (almost!) four. And granola bars do make a great snack... But we would be glad to hear other (even better?) ideas for maximizing savings while traveling – and especially any ideas on how to eat more wholesomely!

I would definitely welcome helpful comments...

Birthday Season: Lots more FREE Loot!

2010-04-08T15:47:00.004-04:00

It's "Birthday Season" again at our house, and we're planning to cash in on some very nice birthday coupons to help us celebrate!

Check my original "Birthday Season" post to see the goodies listed by category (i.e. main dish, dessert, etc.) Then register your birthday on the sites, so you can print coupons when "Birthday Season" arrives for you! Some sites will send a "welcome" coupon, and most sites will send an email reminder about the birthday coupon a week or two before the date.

Add to that list a couple others you might not want to miss:

Main Dishes:

Denny's – FREE Grand Slam Breakfast
Reportedly, just show up on your birthday with a valid ID!

Fuddruckers – FREE 1/3 LB Burger

Mimi's Cafe – Coupon for $10 off $20 purchase

Desserts:

Keva Juice – FREE Regular Blend Smoothie (24 oz)
Plus you get a coupon for a FREE Regular Blend Smoothie (24 oz) just for signing up!

Bruster's – B1G1 FREE Waffle Cone

Rita's – B1G1 FREE Ice-Custard Treat (of your choice)

Arby's – FREE Swirl Shake with any RoastBurger purchase

Don't forget to check the original list for lots more free loot!

Just for the Joy of It!

"Happy Birthday to You!" – from the frugal blogosphere!

Recipe for Honey Oatmeal Bread

2010-03-31T11:17:00.003-04:00

This bread has a very pleasing texture!

Ingredients:

1½ cups (warm) water
½ cup quick-cooking oats
½ cup old-fashioned oats
1 cup whole wheat flour
2 cups bread flour
¼ cup oat bran (or Grape Nuts or bran flakes cereal, crushed)
2 Tbsp ground flax seed
½ tsp salt
¼ cup honey (or molasses or maple syrup)
1½ Tbsp vegetable oil
1½ tsp (active dry) yeast

Place ingredients in the bread case and insert the bread case into the bread machine. Select the Basic (Medium) Bread Mode and press Start.

Enjoy!

Publix Deals – 03/24 thru 04/03

2010-03-31T10:10:00.001-04:00

I’m actually going to make it to Publix since this is a holiday week and the deals are good through Saturday!

Here's my list:

Classico Pasta Sauce (8.1 to 24 oz) – B1G1 for $2.49
Use $1.00/2 printable coupon
Stack with “Save $1.50 on Beef with purchase of two Classico Pasta Sauces (SmartSource 03/14)
FREE after coupon
(Pay $3.49 per pound for Ground Round.)

Ronzoni Pasta (12 or 16 oz) – B1G1 for $1.39
Use $0.75/1 printable coupon
Or use $1.00/2 printable coupon
$0.20 or FREE (plus $0.05 overage)

Hunts Diced Tomatoes (15 oz) – B1G1 for $1.39
Use $1.00/4 coupon (Rediscover Your Balance Booklet)
$0.45 each

Chocolate Cheerios – B1G1 for $3.99
Use $1.00/1 printable Publix coupons
$0.99 each

Land O Lakes Sweet Cream Butter (16 oz) – $2.00 each
Use $0.50/2 printable coupon
$1.50 each after doubled coupon

Strawberries – $1.25 per pound

Sweet Potatoes – $0.39 per pound

And don’t forget the FREE Yoplait Greek Yogurt Deal! (Good through 04/04/10)

You can see more deals with coupon match-ups at FiddledeedeeMom.

CVS Deals – 03/28 thru 04/03

2010-03-30T14:40:00.010-04:00

These are the deals I'm hoping for this week. I'll probably make several trips so I can use ECBs on grocery items; I love it when drugstore deals help the grocery budget!

Buy two Huggies or Pull-Ups – $8.99 each
Get $5.00 ECBs (Limit 1)
Use two $3.00/1 coupons (from various free samples)
Or use two $3.00/1 printable coupons
$3.49 each after coupons and ECBs

Crest Toothpaste – $2.99 each
Get $2.00 ECBs (Limit 1)
Use $0.75/1 coupon (P&G 03/07)
$0.24 after coupon and ECBs

Lindsay Olives – $0.88 each (Limit 6)
Buy two and use $1.00/2 printable coupon
$0.38 each after coupon

Kellogg’s Cereals – $2.00 each (Limit 4)
Use $1.00/1 coupon (from various cereal boxes)
Or buy two and use $1.50/2 printable coupon
$1.00 or $1.25 each after coupons

You can see more deals with coupon match-ups at MoneySavingMom.

Walgreens Deals – 03/28 thru 04/03

2010-03-30T11:40:00.004-04:00

These are the deals I'm hoping for this week. I'll probably make several trips so I can use RRs on grocery items; I love it when drugstore deals help the grocery budget!

Dove Shampoo, Conditioner, or Styling Product – $4.00 each
Get $4.00 Register Rewards
Use $2.00/1 printable coupon
FREE plus $2.00 overage after coupon and RRs

Dentek Floss – $2.00 each
Get $2.00 Register Rewards
Use $1.00/1 coupon (SmartSource 01/17) (regional)
FREE plus $1.00 overage after coupon and RR

Walgreens One Daily Multivitamin (100 count) – $3.00 each
Get $3.00 Register Rewards
FREE after RRs

Reese’s Cups – $0.39 each with in-ad coupon
Use $0.55/1 coupon (SmartSource 03/14) (regional)
FREE after coupons

Bumble Bee Chunk Light Tuna (5 oz) – $0.69 each with in-ad coupon (Limit 4)
Bumble Bee Chunk White Albacore Tuna (5 oz) – $0.99 each with Easter-ad coupon (Limit 3)
Buy four Chunk Light (Limit 4) and one Albacore
Use $1.00/5 printable coupon
$0.55 each after coupons

Campbells Cream of Mushroom or Chicken Soup – $0.79 with Easter-ad coupon
Buy two and use $1.00/2 printable coupon
$0.29 after coupons

Walgreens Pure Honey (32 oz) – $3.99 with in-ad coupon

Milk – $2.69
Currently the best price in town!

You can see more deals with coupon match-ups at Common Sense with Money.

A Simple Resurrection Object Lesson

2010-03-19T14:05:00.000-04:00

We did this for the first time last year, and our toddler enjoyed it thoroughly – and learned the true story of Easter!

Materials needed:

Printed script (See below.)
Small basket. (A bowl or small shoe box works well, too.)
Five (large) brightly-colored plastic eggs (You can get these for about $1.00 at Target, etc.)
A clip-art picture of a donkey (I printed it in black and white, colored it with pencils, and then “laminated” it with clear tape before cutting it out.)
Crackers (Saltines or oyster crackers work well.)
Two nails
A rock

Instructions:

Print the following script and keep it in the basket to read as you open the eggs. The script is targeted toward pre-school children; older children can be involved by looking up the Bible passages and reading them aloud.

Let the child open the blue egg and hold the donkey.
(Matthew 21:1-9)
Jesus was coming to Jerusalem for the Feast of Passover. Some people cut branches from trees and spread them in the road. Many people laid their coats in the road like a carpet. Jesus rode into the city on a donkey. “Hosanna!” the people cheered as they waved palm branches. Some people cheered, “Hosanna to the Son of David! Blessed is He who comes in the Name of the LORD! Hosanna in the highest!” Jesus rode into the city on a donkey because a king riding on a donkey meant he would bring peace. God loves us so much that He sent Jesus to set us free from our sins and bring us peace.

Let the child open the purple egg and eat the cracker.
(Matthew 26:17-19, 26-30)
Jesus and His disciples (the twelve men He was training to tell others about God) celebrated Passover together. They went to an upstairs room in a house in Jerusalem. Jesus washed His disciples’ feet to remind them that they should serve others. Then Jesus and the disciples shared a special meal. Jesus knew it would be His last meal with His friends; He knew He had to follow God’s plan for His life and die for our sins.

Let the child open the yellow egg and hold the two nails; show him how to make the nails into a cross.
(Matthew 27:33-56)
Jesus had to be nailed to the cross to die for our sins because it was God’s plan for salvation. The people who loved Jesus were very sad. Jesus did not deserve to be punished; He had not done anything wrong. Jesus died so that we could be forgiven. The Bible says in John 3:16:
“God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”

Let the child open the green egg and hold the rock.
(Matthew 27:57-60)
After Jesus died, one of his followers wrapped Jesus’ body in cloth and put it in a tomb. The tomb was a special tomb cut into the rock on a hillside. A big stone was rolled in front of the tomb to close the entrance. Soldiers were posted to guard the tomb. Jesus followers were very sad that Jesus had died.

Let the child open the orange egg. It is empty!
(Matthew 28:1-10)
Early the next morning two ladies named Mary went to visit the tomb. When they came to it, they saw that the big rock had been rolled away. The tomb was empty! The angel that had rolled away the stone said: “Jesus…is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying. Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead.” Good news! Jesus was alive again! And He is alive today! He took the punishment that we deserve for our sins so that we can be forgiven – and so that we can know and serve God. And one day we will go to heaven to live forever with God!

(This script has been adapted from a script shared at Shandon Baptist Church in Columbia, SC.)

What's Cookin'?

2010-03-18T17:03:00.003-04:00

This week's menu includes some good-tasting, cheap food:

Classic Meatloaf

Sweet Butter Bread

Lentil and Sausage Stew

Otherwise, we're pretty much still Eating from The Pantry and freezer, etc. It's been a blessing!

I used a one-pound package of "Cocktail Smokies" little sausages from the freezer for today's Lentil and Sausage Stew. Besides omitting salt, I started by putting the frozen sausages in about two cups of water and simmering them until they were hot. (They're already fully cooked.) I then proceeded with the recipe as stated.

Recipe for Lentil and Sausage Stew

2010-03-18T16:47:00.003-04:00

Serve this simple, hearty stew with whole-grain (homemade) bread* to make a great economic meal – complete with protein, vegetables, and fiber! I like to make one huge batch and freeze some for later. (For a smaller batch, simply divide the recipe in half.)

Ingredients:
2½ cups dried lentils
7 cups water
6 small (red) potatoes, cubed
1 lb sausage (chorizo, Italian, etc.)

Optional:
1 tsp salt
2 onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, grated (about 2 cups)

Instructions:
Rinse and drain lentils. Put lentils and water in a large pot and bring to a simmer. (Add onion, garlic, and salt.) Add potatoes and sausage and then cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, until the lentils are done and most of the water has been absorbed. (Add grated carrots and simmer 15 minutes more before serving.)

Garnish with freshly ground pepper, freshly grated carrot, etc.

(Yields approximately ten 1-cup servings.)

*We love homemade Sweet Butter Bread.

What's Cookin'?

2010-03-11T16:58:00.000-05:00

It's a cool, rainy, late-winter (but almost spring!) day where I live.

So, what's cookin'? Some great, nourishing comfort food to match the weather:

Split Pea (with Veggies) Soup and Sweet Butter Bread

This is my frugal version of Split Pea Soup. (Of course, you can add ham bone, too.) But this recipe keeps the idea of simple, economic meals that are also highly nutritious.

I'm looking forward to supper!

Recipe for Split Pea (with Veggies) Soup

2010-03-11T16:38:00.001-05:00

Serve this simple yet hearty soup with whole-grain (homemade) bread* to make a great economic (meatless) meal – complete with protein, vegetables, and fiber! I like to make one huge batch and freeze some for later.

Ingredients:
3 Tbsp dried onion
4 Tbsp olive oil
14 cups water
3 tsp salt
4 cups dried split peas
4 medium carrots, grated (about 4 cups)
1 cup diced tomatoes

Instructions:
In a large pot, heat oil and sauté onions until lightly fragrant. Add remaining ingredients and stir until all are well mixed. Then cover and simmer about 3 to 4 hours, stirring occasionally (until peas are tender).

Garnish with freshly ground pepper, freshly grated carrot, or grated (parmesan) cheese, etc.

(Yields approximately fourteen 1-cup servings.)

*We love homemade Sweet Butter Bread.

FREE Italian Ice at Rita's – only on 03/20/10

2010-03-11T12:01:00.000-05:00

Spring is in the air! It's time to think about celebrating with a Rita's Italian Ice again!

Rita's will be celebrating the First Day of Spring on Saturday, March 20, 2010 – by giving away 10-oz. cups of their famous Italian Ice! Yum!

Read the details.

You might even want to try the New Peeps Ice!

Check Rita's website to find a location near you. While you're there, sign up for the Birthday Club, too!

Diaper & Wipes Deal at Rite Aid (updated)

2010-03-10T13:59:00.004-05:00

The Thrifty Couple has a detailed post on the great diaper and wipes deal currently at Rite Aid!

Here's my (~~hopeful~~) scenario:

Buy three packs of Pampers Diapers – $9.99 each
Use two $1.50/1 coupons (from select Cheerios boxes)
[Or use two $1.50/1 coupons (P&G 02/07 & 02/21)]
Use one $2.00/1 coupon (P&G 02/21)
Buy one pack of Pampers Wipes – $2.49 each
Use ~~$1.50/1 coupon~~ $0.50/1 coupon (P&G 02/07)
Stack with a $5 off $25 purchase Rite Aid coupon

Total after coupons will be ~~$20.96~~ $21.96 (before tax).

Qualify to receive the $10 Rite Aid Gift Card. (See Rebate #18 here.)

The final price will be ~~$10.96~~ $11.96 for four items – or ~~$2.74~~ $2.99 each (before tax)!

FREE Yoplait Greek Yogurt at Publix!

2010-03-09T11:30:00.002-05:00

We're back in the USA after almost five (very busy!) weeks away.

Here's an especially exciting deal at Publix (through 04/04/10) for our yogurt-loving family:

Yoplait Greek Yogurt (6 oz) – $1.19 each
Use FREE Publix coupon
Stack with $0.30/1 printable coupon (doubled)
FREE plus $0.60 overage after coupons

Thanks, MoneySavingMom!

You can also see a simple recipe for homemade yogurt right here on this blog!

Book Review: Love Your Heart

2010-02-10T07:00:00.004-05:00

Love Your Heart, published by Thomas Nelson, Inc., is the story of Katie, who can’t decide what to do for the School Talent Show. After a few quite humorous trials and mishaps, she decides to bring her amazing dog, Palio, into the act for a one-of-a-kind, never-before-seen performance! The night of the talent show finally arrives, and Katie is waiting backstage when she sees her friend Sophie crying. What happens next is a sweet, selfless surprise – an act of kindness that leaves Katie’s dad saying: “I love your heart.”

Each page is richly illustrated with fun fonts and whimsical illustrations by Abigail Marble, and Katie’s sweetly boisterous spirit sparkles and bounces right off the pages – showing that the very best of you lies not in what you can do, but in who you are.

In Love Your Heart, Tim McGraw and Tom Douglas once again capture the heartwarming father-daughter relationship that delighted readers in My Little Girl.

Another bonus for our little one is the fact that the book is richly illustrated with lots of purple and pink – even the title on the front cover and the large emphatic fonts throughout are in varied shades of those favorite little girl colors!

The brown paper package from Thomas Nelson Publishers, containing this sweet story especially suited for Daddy to read to his little girl, arrived in our mailbox just in time to wrap for a fourth birthday party. We love the celebration of the father-daughter relationship and the emphasis on the reality that true beauty is on the inside. We like to conclude the story by emphasizing that we need Jesus and His grace to give us clean hearts so that we can be truly beautiful on the inside. A real princess is a daughter of the King of all kings!

At a list price of $16.99 this beautifully illustrated jacketed hardcover book makes an extra special birthday or Valentine’s gift for little girls, ages 4 to 10.

A flip version of the book is available here.

Disclosure:
A complimentary copy of the book was provided to me, as a reviewer for Mama Bzz, by Thomas Nelson, Inc. in exchange for today’s blog tour.

A big “Thank-you!” to the folks at Thomas Nelson, Inc. for the opportunity to enjoy and review this wonderful book!

Birthday Party Menu

2010-02-02T16:57:00.001-05:00

We ended up postponing the party due to sickness and inclement weather, but we still enjoyed a little family party – just the three of us!

The theme was "healthful" this year. We should always do it, but we made a greater effort for the sake of my nephew. It was fun to see sales correspond with the "healthful" idea; hopefully, there will be similar sales when we reschedule.

This was the plan:

Organic Tortilla Chips (from Sam's Club)
Carrots (from Sam's Club)
Radishes (from Publix)
Celery (from Publix)
Broccoli (from Publix)

Homemade Hummus Dip
Pinto Bean Dip (from the freezer)

Deviled Eggs
Black Olives (from the pantry)
Mixed Nuts (from the pantry)

Grapefruit Punch (from Publix)

Homemade Fruit Smoothies:
Bananas (from Sam's)
Apples (from Publix)
Pears (from Publix)
Frozen Peaches (from the freezer)

I was planning to make a Chocolate Birthday Cake – from scratch – but decided to wait until we reschedule the party. (Instead, I used a brownie mix I had on hand.)

Recipe for Hummus

2010-02-02T16:54:00.002-05:00

The balsamic vinegar gives this recipe a definite Mediterranean twist!

Ingredients:
2 cups cooked garbanzo beans, drained
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
½ tsp garlic powder (OR 1 clove garlic, peeled)
½ tsp salt
½ tsp cumin
2 to 4 Tbsp plain yogurt

Directions:
In a blender (or food processor), combine garbanzo beans, oil, vinegar, garlic (powder), salt, and cumin. Blend, gradually adding yogurt, until desired consistency is achieved.

Serve with fresh vegetables, crackers, pita chips, or tortilla chips.

Enjoy!

Eating from The Pantry: Final Update

2010-01-30T08:00:00.010-05:00

We're planning to continue "Eating from the Pantry" – at least for a while longer, supplementing (as we have been doing) with fresh fruits and vegetables and deals that are just too good to pass up!

Here's how the challenge has gone so far – during January. Our goal was $15 (or less) per week on groceries (including food and household needs).

Week 1:
We spent only $7.63 on groceries, basically for two meats. (We were on vacation, sharing cooking duties with our friends.)

Week 2:
We spent $11.15 for groceries at Publix, $0.59 for milk at Walgreens, and $1.38 and $0.38 for miscellaneous deals at CVS.

Week 3:
We spent $12.92 for groceries at Publix and $0.16 on miscellaneous deals at CVS. (Remember that the beauty of shopping at CVS is the ExtraCare Bucks program!)

Week 4:
We spent $8.89 for groceries at Publix – and later allowed a splurge of another $2.00 for ice-cream, thanks to a $1.00/1 coupon from Publix Preschool Pals!

The FREE SoyJoy Deal (limit 6 per card, limit 3 per transaction) is still going on at CVS (until 02/14); it was fun to pay for five boxes (two and then three) with ECBs and $0.00 out of pocket! These aren't our favorite, but they do come in handy as snacks.

An "Eating from the Pantry Challenge" is a great way to save – not only because you're using what you already have on hand but also because you're stopping to figure out what you actually have on hand and then coming up with (creative) ways to use it!

Eating from The Pantry: Another Update

2010-01-28T16:37:00.004-05:00

We're in the fourth week of our (much-needed) "Eating from the Pantry Challenge" – and still enjoying it! We've been constantly reminded that stocking up when items are on sale (and finding new creative ways to be frugal – i.e. eating carving pumpkins!) are worthy investments.

What's Cookin'?! Lots of good food!

Here's the menu for this week:

January 25 thru 31

Breakfasts:
Pumpkin Bread (using the newly updated recipe that includes sweet potato!)
Grapefruit
Scrambled Eggs with Toasted Sweet Butter Bread
Cereal, cereal, and more cereal

Lunches:
M: Leftover Chicken and Veggie Stew
T: More Leftovers
W: Mac & Cheese with Stewed Tomatoes, Fresh Fruit
Th: Special Potato Soup
F: Sandwiches, Fresh Fruit
Sat & Sun: TBD (probably more leftovers)

Suppers:
M: Tri-Colored Pasta with Tomato Sauce & Cheese, Veggies
T: Stuffed Chicken Breasts, Whipped Potatoes with Sour Cream, Peas & Onions
W: Leftover Chili (from the freezer) with Cheese, Fresh Fruit
Th: More Leftovers
F: Dinner Out (to celebrate a birthday!)
Sat: Birthday Party!
Sun: TBD (probably party leftovers)

I'm excited about the Birthday Party Menu, which I plan to post later. (I'm thankful for the benefits derived from a stocked pantry, a free Sam's Club membership, and recent deals at Publix!)

Speaking of Publix, I should tally up my (grocery) spending for the last two weeks. I'm struck with the fact that blogging can be a type of public journaling, where we write what we don't mind our family and friends reading. In fact, we hope they will read – and maybe even comment now and then! (Hee! Hee!)

Have I mentioned that we love Publix?! Yes, we do!

On the January 19 trip, we spent $12.92 – within the goal of $15 per week during this challenge.

On the January 26 trip, we spent $8.89 – again within our goal and actually a better total than expected because they gave me the Ocean Spray 100% Juice at 2/$3.45!

The biggest highlight, of course, was winning the 10-inch cookie – in the monthly drawing for the Cookie Club! (Well, we paid $0.20 tax for a $9.99 cookie.) Even the cashiers and customer service folks were excited for us, as they tried to figure out how to ring it up!

We love Publix! Yes, we do!

We love Publix! How 'bout you?!

Recipe for Special Potato Soup

2010-01-28T12:28:00.001-05:00

(Adapted from a family friend’s recipe, this dish made us fall in love with rosemary and thyme!)

Sauté until softened:
2 stalks celery, sliced
1 Tbsp dried onion
2 Tbsp olive oil

Add:
6 medium-sized potatoes, cubed (or 4 cups mashed potatoes)
2 large carrots, grated
3 cups water
1 tsp salt + 1 tsp seasoned salt
½ tsp thyme
½ tsp rosemary
¼ tsp cumin
Dash of garlic powder

Cover and simmer about 20 minutes (or until vegetables are tender). Then remove from heat and mash with potato masher (or purée in blender).

Add:
2 cups milk
1 cup shredded (cheddar) cheese

Reheat, stirring constantly, until cheese is melted.

(Yields approximately ten 1-cup servings.)

Enjoy!

Inspiration & Encouragement: JOY in Work!

2010-01-28T11:27:00.002-05:00

God intends for His children to rejoice in their vocations – in their daily work!

Most honorable vocations exist to meet the needs of people; God has ordained His world so that people with various abilities meet various needs. We should think of our vocation, therefore, not as a necessary evil to pay the bills, nor even as an opportunity to become rich, but as the primary path of our Christian walk wherein God has planned good deeds for us to do.
(Jerry Bridges in The Fruitful Life)

What an encouragement! Because God Himself says:

By grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God;
Not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.
For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them.
(Ephesians 2)

These thoughts have been a blessing to me this week, so I'm sharing them today – "Just for the JOY of It!"

Publix Highlights – 01/26

2010-01-26T15:23:00.004-05:00

We're in the fourth week of an "Eating from The Pantry Challenge" – and we're still enjoying it!

We'll be making a last-minute run to Publix for the following deals today!

Quaker Instant Oatmeal – B1G1 for $3.89
Use "Buy one Quaker Instant Oatmeal, Get one Naked Juice FREE" coupon (Publix Family Style Magazine, Spring Issue) (Get a free subscription!)
Stack with $1.00/1 Quaker Oatmeal printable coupon
Stack with $1.00/1 Naked Juice printable coupon (Join "Juice Nation" by clicking on link at bottom right.)
All FREE after coupons!

Hunt's Canned Tomatoes (14.5 oz) – B1G1 for $1.39
Use $1.00/4 coupon (All You Magazine, December 2009)
$0.45 each

Bosc or Anjou Pears – $0.88 per pound

Red, Golden Delicious, or Gala Apples (3 lbs) – $2.49

I’ll also redeem a "rain check" from last week:

Buy two Ocean Spray Grapefruit Juice (64 oz) – $2.00 each
Get one bag (5 lbs) of Fresh Red Grapefruit FREE
$4.00 for everything!

Drum roll, please!

My little one won a 10-inch Decorated Cookie in the monthly drawing for the Cookie Club – just in time for her birthday!

Gotta love Publix!

Inspiration & Encouragement: Celebrating Little Moments!

2010-01-21T15:46:00.001-05:00

At the risk of sounding like a broken record, allow me to say... In the goodness and grace of God, it's often the little moments in life that bring great joy – from the mundane to the sublime!

Looking forward to enjoying Krispy Kreme Donuts because of the great Valentines Day Offer!
Reading "The Gingerbread Man" and "The Little Red Hen" to my little girl – from the recently acquired book set I dearly loved as a little girl.
Looking out the window at this afternoon's winter rain, remembering that two days this week we had the windows open to let is some fresh air and sunshine. Yes, it really got that warm in mid-January!
Reading a heart-felt letter from a dear saint in Spain, written to encourage my nephew who is battling cancer. She hasn't ever met him or anyone else in the extended family, but she's a wonderful example of how Christ's Church, His Body, should function!

So, I'm sharing these little moments – “Just for the JOY of It!”

My biggest bargaining deal yet!

2010-01-21T13:21:00.000-05:00

When I first started couponing and bargain-hunting in earnest about a year and a half ago, I never dreamed that it would lead among other things to my finally being able to get the 13-volume book set that I dearly loved as a child!

The big box arrived right before Christmas! The price tag was $195 for a gently used set, listed by a third party seller on Amazon.com. Thanks to Swagbucks* and yard sales, I had paid only $3.99 out of pocket for the set – and that was for shipping!

This afternoon I sat down with my daughter to read two stories from Volume 2, the book that is on her level. What a joy!

Most of all, I'm thankful to God for teaching me much patience and perseverance...

*If you haven't signed up yet for Swagbucks, I hope this post will help to persuade you. What exactly are Swagbucks? Read details here and here – and then sign up here.

Eating from The Pantry: Update

2010-01-20T15:39:00.003-05:00

We're in our third week of the "Eating from the Pantry Challenge" – and we're still enjoying it! In fact, I'm a bit embarrassed to admit that I didn't realize how stocked our pantry was; we really needed this challenge!

What's Cookin'?! Lots of good food!

I've decided not to try to reconstruct the vacation menu for the first week – but it was good! I'm thankful that our friends shared the cooking responsibilities with us.

Here are our menus for last week and this week:

January 10 thru 17

Sunday, January 10: We were still traveling. We enjoyed breakfast at a Hampton Inn (very nice free lodging, thanks to credit card points)! After church we ate lunch with family and friends, and on the way home we stopped at a restaurant for supper.

Breakfasts:
Pumpkin Bread
Yogurt
Cereal, cereal, and more cereal!

Lunches:
M: Leftovers
T: Mac & Cheese, Stewed Tomatoes
W: Pasta with Veggie Tomato Sauce & Cheese, Applesauce
Th: Egg Salad Sandwiches, Pear Slices
F: More Egg Salad Sandwiches
Sat & Sun: We were traveling again and greatly enjoyed Venison Fajitas, Vegetable Soup with Mexican Cornbread, and Dairy Queen Treats, among other good things! (I get no credit for those wonderful meals.)

Suppers:
M: Ramen Noodle & Veggie Soup, Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
T: Stuffed Chicken Breasts, Four Cheese Bowtie Pasta, Green Beans
W: Beef & Veggie Stew, Tomato Bread
Th: Stuffed Chicken Breasts, Mashed Potatoes with Cheese, Lettuce Salad with Olives & Cheese
F: Pork Barbecue with Trimmings (We were invited to eat with friends, so I get no credit.)
Sat & Sun: We were traveling. (See above notes.)

January 18 thru 24:

Breakfasts:
Grapefruit
Cereal, cereal, and more cereal!

Lunches:
M: Leftovers
T: More Leftovers, Noodle Soup, V-8 Juice
W: PB & J Sandwiches, Pear Slices, V-8 Juice
Th: Leftover Chili, Sweet Butter Bread
F: Leftovers
Sat & Sun: TBD (Leftovers?)

Suppers:
M: Scrambled Egg Beaters, English Muffin Toast, Venison Sausage
T: Chili, Sweet Butter Bread
W: Pumpkin Curry Soup
Th: Chicken & Veggie Stew, Sweet Butter Bread
F: Baked Potatoes with Broccoli, Cheese, and Sour Cream
Sat & Sun: TBD (Leftovers?)

A big benefit of this "Eating from the Pantry Challenge" is realizing how blessed we are!

Publix Deals – 01/13 thru 01/19

2010-01-19T16:29:00.002-05:00

We’re still in the middle of an "Eating from The Pantry Challenge" – and we're enjoying it!

That said, I am planning a quick run to Publix for the following deals:

Green Giant Boxed Vegetables – 10 for $10
Use $0.50/2 printable coupons
$0.50 each after doubled coupon

Hunt’s Spaghetti Sauce – 10 for $10
Use $0.50/2 printable coupons
$0.50 each after doubled coupon

Pompeian Olive Oil – B1G1 for $5.99
Use $1.00/1 printable coupon
$2.00 each

Broccoli – $1.47 each

Celery – $0.99 each

Radishes – $0.99 each

I also learned last week that the Penny Item is no longer a Sunday or Monday deal; it now falls on either Wednesday or Thursday, depending on the first day of the current ad in any given area. (Not good news for last-minute shoppers – like me!)

Krispy Kreme: Valentine's Day Donuts & Coupons!

2010-01-19T16:09:00.002-05:00

My family enjoys an occasional outing for a Krispy Kreme Donut or two – or maybe even a dozen on occasion!

The heart-shaped doughnuts, topped with a yummy white icing and red, pink, and white sprinkles, are back!

Here's how you can get a sweet deal!

While supplies last at participating stores, you can get twelve Valentine's Day Cards when you buy any dozen doughnuts. Each card has a coupon on the back good for one free doughnut!

For a list of participating stores and Valentine's Day doughnut offerings, you can go here.

Enjoy!

CVS Deals – 01/17 through 01/23

2010-01-19T15:57:00.000-05:00

My sister and I are planning to go to CVS together this evening. She has $2.00 ECBs and a rain check to cash in – both from her very first bargaining visit!

I promised to come up with some good beginner’s scenarios based on deals I knew of, so here goes:

We’ll start with the rain check:

Nivea Body Wash – $5.99
Get $5.00 ECBs (Limit 1)
$0.99 after ECBs

She’ll pay with $2.00 ECBs and $3.99 (plus tax) out of pocket – and get $5.00 ECBs back.

Since she mentioned needing paper products, we’ll cash in on this deal at the second store:

Cottonelle Double Rolls (20 count) – $12.88
Get $4.00 ECBs (Limit 3)
Use $0.50/1 (SmartSource 12/13)
$8.38 after coupon and ECBs

She’ll pay with $5.00 ECBs and $7.38 out of pocket – and get $4.00 ECBs back. Not bad for the equivalent of 40 rolls of bathroom tissue!

The deals really aren’t all that great this week, so I’ll probably go for two of these:

SoyJoy Box (6-count) – $6.00
Get $6.00 ECBs (Limit 3)
FREE after ECBs

Office Max: FREE printer paper, envelopes, and markers

2010-01-15T15:00:00.004-05:00

There are some great deals (FREE after MaxPerks Bonus Rewards) for teachers or businesses until Saturday, January 16. And you can order online!

If you don’t already have a MaxPerks Card, sign up here. Plus, get free shipping on orders over $50!

If you go through ebates when ordering, you can earn 3% back on all purchases from Office Max. If you’re new to ebates, you’ll also earn a $5.00 bonus – and sweeten the deal even further! Click here to sign up.

Here are the deals:

Boise X-9 Copy Paper (10 Ream Case) – $34.99 each (Limit 2)
Earn $35.00 per case on MaxPerks Card
FREE after MaxPerks Bonus Rewards*

Sharpie Fine Point Permanent Markers (12 count) – $5.99 each (Limit 3)
Earn $6.00 per box on MaxPerks Card
FREE after MaxPerks Bonus Rewards*

Ascend 30% Recycled Business Peel-to-Seal Envelopes (50 count) – $3.99 each (Limit 3)
Earn $4.00 on MaxPerks Card
FREE after MaxPerks Bonus Rewards*

*After your MaxPerks Bonus Rewards post, you can use them like a gift card on a future purchase at Office Max. (I’m planning to get toner for the printer.)

CVS Deals – 01/10 thru 01/16

2010-01-15T07:00:00.001-05:00

Believe it or not, this CVS Fan hadn’t been to a CVS since my outing with my sister on December 26! Since I had ECBs that had to be used, I made two trips yesterday.

On the first trip, I picked up these deals:

Buy two CVS Reusable Bags – $0.99 each
Get $1.00 ECB (Limit 1)
$0.49 each after ECB

Buy two Pantene Shampoo, Conditioner, or Styler – two for $6.97
Get $2.00 ECBs (Limit 1)
Use $3.00/2 coupon (P&G 12/27)
$0.98 cents each after coupon and ECBs

Cottonelle Double Rolls (20 count) – $12.88
Get $4.00 ECBs (Limit 3)
Use $0.50/1 (SmartSource 12/13)
$8.38 after coupon and ECBs

All Christmas items have been marked down to 90% off, so I also picked up two rolls of wrapping paper for $0.39 and $0.29!

I paid with $19 ECBs ($15 from taking a survey!) and $1.38 out of pocket – and got back $9.50 ECBs ($2.50 from fall spending).

On the second trip, I got these deals:

SoyJoy Box (6-count) – $6.00
Get $6.00 ECBs (Limit 3)
FREE after ECBs

I also redeemed the rain check from the week of December 26:

Nivea Body Wash – $5.99
Get $5.00 ECBs (Limit 1)
Use $2.00/1 printable coupon
FREE plus $1.01 overage after coupons and ECBs

I also picked up four boxes of small candy canes (50 count each) for $0.19 each and some Christmas garland for $0.39 (Think: ministry with children!) I paid with $11 ECBs and $0.38 out of pocket – and got back $11 ECBs!

This is not necessarily the greatest week for deals, but since I had $24 ECBs I had to spend this week, I’m thankful to have stocked up on household paper for (almost) free!

Gotta love CVS!

Eating from The Pantry

2010-01-14T15:58:00.004-05:00

Yes, I missed my What's Cookin'? post this week – and last week, too...

We're currently in the middle of an "Eating from The Pantry Challenge" right now. In late December, before reading that the frugal blogosphere had decided to launch out on an "Eating from the Pantry Challenge" this January, we had decided to do so. I remembered reading about the whole idea last January...

I'm currently recovering from what I call "Post Vacation Trauma" as well. (You know how it goes: there's all the unpacking, putting stuff away, readjusting to the "normal" demands of life, etc.) So, I haven't taken time to sit down and blog about our progress – until now!

I'm planning to post my current menu later (and possibly what I can recall of last week's menu, which I left on the fridge where we vacationed).

That said, our main goal during the challenge this month will be to save most of what we would otherwise spend on groceries, putting it toward other expenses – possibly car repairs. Every little bit helps, eh?!

So far, it's been an exciting challenge!

Last week, we spent only $7.63 on groceries – basically for two meats. (We decided not to count the two times we ate out while on vacation.) Thankfully, we shared cooking duties with our friends, making the vacation more of, well, a vacation!

This week, we've spent $11.15 for miscellaneous groceries at Publix and $0.59 for milk at Walgreens. (That free cereal deal has also turned into almost free milk for this week!)

We've actually been eating very well. Sharing kitchen duties last week definitely helped, and rising to the idea of a challenge is also helping...

Since this is already a rambling post, allow me to ramble just a bit more and post our beginning pictures:

These pictures do not include the staples (flour, sugar, rice, beans, coffee, etc.) on the counters, the dozen or so boxes of cereal in another cupboard, or the contents of the chest freezer: turkey, chicken, venison, a half dozen or so gallons of milk, a gallon of orange juice, peach slices, breads, and more cheese!

We probably needed this challenge – just to use up what we have now! And we're already planning to stretch this challenge to at least another month, too!

Inspiration & Encouragement: Celebrating Life!

2010-01-14T14:02:00.008-05:00

Last week, we enjoyed a (much-needed!) family vacation. We went to the (currently chilly!) South Carolina Coast. Our dear friends (and future ministry partners) joined us for part of that time.

As usual, I took LOTS of pictures!

Here's one of my favorites – of my two favorite people!

I'm once again joining Just for the JOY of It – just to share and to celebrate life! It's often the little moments that become the most cherished memories...

(By the way, this is Post #200 for this blog! And it "happened" to post at 2:02 p.m. Cool, eh? Another of those neat little details in life that make me smile...)

Publix Super Savers – 01/12/10

2010-01-12T17:00:00.005-05:00

Gotta take advantage of some very last minute deals!

In late December, before reading that the frugal blogosphere had decided to launch out on an "Eating from the Pantry Challenge" this January, we had decided to do so. (I'm hoping to post our details soon...)

That said, there are some deals at Publix (good through today in my area) that I'm planning to get this evening; they're mostly of the kind that would be difficult to stash in the cupboards or even the freezer – or they match coupons that are too good to let slip!

Egg Beaters – B1G1 for $2.79
Use $0.55/1 "blinkie" coupons (in store)
$0.85 each

Quaker Life (or Oatmeal Squares) Cereal – B1G1 for $4.49
Use $1.00/1 coupon (from oatmeal box)
$1.25 each

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts – $1.99 per pound
Use $1.00/1 coupon (courtesy of Publix Preschool Pals)
(The coupons arrived in the mail yesterday!)

Publix Salad Blends – $2.00 each

Bartlett or Bosc Pears – $0.88 per pound

Gotta love Publix!

Book Review: The One Year Devotions for Preschoolers

2010-01-04T07:00:00.011-05:00

The One Year Devotions for Preschoolers 2, by Carla Barnhill, uses the (cute!) Little Blessings characters (Kaitlyn, Zoe, Parker, and Jack) to help children through easy-to-understand devotions. Each reading pairs a Little Blessings illustration with a short Bible verse and devotional thought that gets you and your child talking about the simple truths of Scripture. A fun, rhyming prayer or application completes each devotional. This book is a great way to get young children interacting with Scripture daily – to learn about God’s wonderful promises and timeless truths. Put out by Tyndale House Publishers, it was previously published as Blessings Every Day.

The back cover of the book states that the idea is “do-able, daily devotions” for preschoolers:

Do-able: You and your child can just pick up the book and start on today’s date.
Daily: Kids can learn about God and what’s really important, a little bit each day.
Devotions: Kids can experience firsthand how to connect with God.

The book is intended for three to six year olds, but my initial impression was that it is too simplistic for that age range. The more I read, however, the more I realize that there is a mix. Some entries are very simple, illustrating one verse or principle for very young minds; others are more developed, requiring more thoughtful application.

After perusing the book on my own, I started at the beginning with my toddler, reading through most of January in two sittings – for the sake of this review, of course! We then jumped right into the middle of the book, reading at random.

The lesson from Psalm 139 is definitely a favorite; because we have an avid little “painter” and “builder” at our house, I love the connection made between activities she understands and loves – communicating in terms she can grasp the wonder of the Creator’s delight in making her:

“When God made you, He picked out all your parts and put them together. So He knows and loves everything about you. You are His special creation.”

Another favorite is A Solid Rock, in which the qualities and uses of rocks are explained in terms little ones can appreciate:

“[Rocks are] really strong. Big rocks are great to stand on when you want to see higher or to sit on when you need to rest… God is incredibly strong, and He’s always there when we need Him.”

I do find myself fleshing out the more simple entries, sometimes substituting stronger vocabulary and more often adding in the message of salvation through Christ. For example, the entry on King David states: “He knew God loved him, even when he made bad choices and big mistakes.” I added: “Because God loved David and because He loves you and me, He sent Jesus to die for David’s sins and for your sins and my sins, too – so we can be forgiven!”

The One Year Devotions for Preschoolers 2 can be a good tool in the hands of discerning parents who desire to teach God’s truths diligently to their children. (See Deuteronomy 6:5-7.) And it might help to make a noble New Year's Resolution a reality. Measuring 5.75 x 7.25 inches, the book has 384 beautifully laid out and illustrated pages in a hardcover binding. Because it is a book that will be used every day, all year, the list price of $14.99 seems very fair.

My almost four year old is delighted with the endearing artwork by Care Bears artist, Elena Kucharik. The cute Little Blessings characters at work and at play illustrate beautifully the principles being communicated and provide opportunity to discuss those truths further. We're looking forward to reading together!

Disclosure:

A complimentary copy of the book was provided to me, as a reviewer for Mama Bzz, by Tyndale House Publishers in exchange for today’s blog tour.

A big “Thank-you!” to the folks at Tyndale House Publishers for the opportunity to review and enjoy this wonderful book!

Inspiration & Encouragement: Celebrating God’s Grace in 2009

2009-12-31T11:53:00.003-05:00

It’s the last day of the year, an opportunity to pause and reflect – and give thanks to God for His grace! 2009 will very soon come to a close, and a new chapter of life will open with 2010.

2009 has been a year of both joys and trials – like any year of life on a fallen planet. Through it all, we are experiencing the great faithfulness of our loving Savior and Lord. His grace, as promised, has been sufficient.

As I close 2009, I pause to thank God publicly for His grace to me. With this post, I’m specifically celebrating my first full year of avid bargain-hunting. It’s not that I wasn’t frugally conscious before, but I didn’t realize the value of a coupon. Why anyone would try to save a few cents on a brand name item when store brands were almost always cheaper and equally good in taste and/or quality was beyond me! But that was before I understood B1G1 deals combined with double coupons, or coupon stacking, or rebates, etc.

The greatest value of couponing, as it has come to be called in Modern English, seems to be how it can change a shopper’s general perspective. Specifically, I “never” pay full price for anything anymore; if it’s not on sale, I probably don’t need it. There are exceptions, of course. After all, I’m driving the coupon car; it’s not driving me!

Of course, bargaining isn’t just about me and what I can get. Rather, it’s about wise stewardship of the resources God has entrusted to me. As I save and stockpile, I am more able to look for specific opportunities to serve God, my family, and others. What JOY!

As we close 2009, our family gives thanks to God for allowing us, by His grace, to finish paying “The School Bill” (and related expenses) in the fall of 2009. From my perspective, couponing sped us on our way to that goal. It’s not so much that what we saved by using coupons on groceries paid the bills. Rather, couponing created an awareness of a real way to reduce costs and made me, in particular, much more sensitive to prices in general – and to the fact that, if I’m patient, the staples and regulars will be on sale again, i.e. they tend to cycle. Even if I didn’t have a coupon, I had a new idea of what I was willing (or more often unwilling) to pay for any particular item. And each baby step contributed to the giant leap of debt elimination!

I’m thankful!

I’m thankful for God’s enabling grace. I’m thankful that it’s never too late to learn. I’m thankful for my Dearest and my Little One – and their patience! And I’m thankful for friends on the bargaining blogosphere who shared their stories and lessons learned and encouraged me along the way by example...

So, I’m sharing God’s grace in a small (but significant!) chapter of my life – “Just for the Joy of It!”

2010 promises to be a year of new opportunities to trust God as we launch out on a new adventure.

May we have a Blessed New Year!

What's Cookin'?

2009-12-30T16:27:00.001-05:00

Can you guess?! If you've been following along, you know the answer has to be more pumpkin!

About half of the pumpkin puree from the bigger of the two pumpkins did end up in the freezer for later use. Another four cups made their debut in the very yummy Pumpkin Curry Soup we enjoyed on Sunday afternoon.

We also enjoyed Tomato Bread (with both tomato and pumpkin in it) as part of our Christmas Eve Dinner. And another loaf just came out of the bread maker earlier this afternoon.

I even stuck my neck out and came up with my own pumpkin recipe which I'm calling Pumpkin Veggie Bake. If you add a pound of ground meat (cooked) and two or three cups of rotini pasta (cooked), you can also turn this side dish into a hearty main dish. We tried that version – using ground venison – and really liked it, too!

The second pumpkin started going the way of all flesh before I could tend to it. So, it got moved from the living room (where it had become part of the decor) to the front porch – which ended up acting the dual function of refrigerator!

Last night, I was able to salvage about half of the second pumpkin and bake it. About eight cups of little pumpkin cubes are playing the main role in a second big batch of Pumpkin Veggie Bake – with no meat this time.

Cutting the pumpkin into chunks this time, cut the cooking time to about one hour – half the time it took to cook the bigger half of the bigger pumpkin previously.

The remaining pumpkin chunks (now baked) will probably be made into puree and/or integrated into An Adaptation of Uruguayan Puchero. (Yes, that recipe is still pending.)

Classic Pumpkin Bread will also be in the works. My Dearest's co-workers enjoyed it, and I promised some to my co-workers, too. Fresh pumpkin puree tends to be quite a bit milder than its canned counterpart, so that even those who claim not to like pumpkin enjoyed this version of the popular sweet bread.

Carving pumpkins are very good-for-you, economical food. It's a real shame that so much gets wasted in our country every autumn...

Yes, we are thoroughly enjoying our pumpkin recipes. And we're very thankful for God's provision!

Recipe for Tomato Bread

2009-12-30T15:06:00.005-05:00

Another last-minute experiment right before Christmas, this is on its way to becoming a favorite at our house!

Ingredients:
¾ cup + 1 Tbsp (warm) water
4 cups bread flour
2 Tbsp sugar
1½ tsp salt
2 Tbsp butter
¼ cup + 2 Tbsp tomato paste
¼ cup + 2 Tbsp pumpkin puree
¼ to ¾ tsp rosemary leaves, crumbled
6 to 8 fresh oregano leaves, minced
1½ tsp (active dry) yeast

Instructions:
Place ingredients in the bread case and insert the bread case into the bread machine. Select the Basic Bread Mode and press Start.

Enjoy!

Recipe for Pumpkin Veggie Bake

2009-12-30T15:02:00.008-05:00

The result of a last-minute experiment right before Christmas, this dish will probably become a family favorite!

Ingredients:
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp dried onion
8 cups baked pumpkin or (winter) squash, cubed
2 cans (15 oz) diced (fire-roasted!) tomatoes, with garlic
1 cup pasta sauce
½ tsp “Mrs. Dash” seasoning
½ tsp chili powder
¼ tsp ground cumin
¼ tsp crushed red pepper
Dash of fresh ground black pepper
6 or 8 fresh oregano leaves, minced

Instructions:
In a large Dutch Oven (or saucepan), heat oil over medium heat and sauté onions until lightly fragrant. Stir in pumpkin and tomatoes and then pasta sauce. Add remaining spices and mix well. Transfer to a slow cooker and let simmer for three or four hours – the longer, the better!

Make a hearty main dish by adding a pound of ground meat (cooked) and two or three cups of whole grain rotini pasta (cooked).

Enjoy!

Recipe for Pumpkin Curry Soup

2009-12-30T14:50:00.004-05:00

Another wonderful recipe – especially for cold fall and winter evenings!

Ingredients:
4 Tbsp butter
1 Tbsp olive oil
2 Tbsp dried onion
2 cups grated carrots
1½ cups water
2 tsp curry powder
½ tsp salt
Dash of fresh ground black pepper
4 cups fresh pumpkin or (winter) squash puree
½ cup whole milk
1½ cups (12 oz can) evaporated milk

Instructions:
In a large saucepan melt butter over medium low heat. Add olive oil, onion, and carrots; sauté until tender. Add water and bring to a simmer. Cover and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes.

Add curry powder and salt, and then add pepper and pumpkin. Working with approximately 2-cup batches, blend until smooth and then pour all back into saucepan. Stir in whole milk and evaporated milk until well mixed. Heat through.

Serve garnished with sour cream, parsley, chives, or toasted pumpkin seeds, as desired.

Enjoy!

Walgreens Deal: Buy Milk, Get Cereal FREE!

2009-12-29T22:26:00.000-05:00

There's a great deal at Walgreens this week!

Buy one gallon of milk – $2.59 (locally)
Buy two Honey Nut Cheerios – two for $4.00
Get $2.00 Register Rewards
Use two $1.00/1 printable coupons*
Pay $2.59 for everything!

*Click on "Get your $2.00 in Coupons" and two coupons will print ($1.00/1 and $1.00/2); you should be able to print twice per computer.

CVS-ing with my Sister!

2009-12-28T19:57:00.002-05:00

For the most part, I took a (much-needed) break from couponing over the Christmas Holidays...

Two main exceptions were using up Register Rewards at Walgreens on staples (including milk and eggs) and taking my sister to "show her the ropes" at CVS.

We were both shocked when the cashier told her there was now a $7.00 charge to apply for an Extra Care Card... Thankfully, he was joking!

We each used a $5.00 off $20 Purchase Coupon (from The Sacramento Bee online) to get some great deals. I went for the following:

Revlon Lip Stick – B1G1 for $7.99
Get $5.00 ECBs (Limit 3)
Used $2.00/1 coupon (SmartSource 12/13)
FREE plus $4.01 overage after coupon and ECBs

Oral-B Dental Floss (55 yards) – $2.88
Get $2.00 ECBs (Limit 1)
Used $1.00/1 coupon (P&G 11/29)
FREE plus $0.12 overage after coupons and ECBs

Neosporin Lip Health – $5.39
Used $2.50/1 CVS Clip-Free Coupon (automatically applied)
Used $3.00/1 printable coupon
FREE after coupons

Buy $12 of Glade Products, Get $4.00 ECBs (Limit 1)
Bought two Scented Oil Candle Holders – $3.00 each
Bought two Scented Oil Candle Refills – $3.00 each
Used coupon for Free Refill wyb any Holder (SmartSource 12/06)
Stacked with two $1.50/1 Candle Holder coupons (from previous holder boxes)
$2.00 for everything after coupons and ECBs

Sambucol – $12.99
Used $7.00/1 CVS Clip-Free Coupon (automatically applied)
$5.99 after coupons

I paid $2.27 out of pocket after coupons and $13.96 ECBs – and earned $16 ECBs for next time!

We both got a raincheck for the following deal:

Nivea Body Wash – $5.99
Get $5.00 ECBs (Limit 1)
Use $2.00/1 printable coupon
FREE plus $1.01 overage after coupons and ECBs

My sister was especially interested in the Sambucol deal. When it was all said and done, she left CVS with three Sambucol, an Oral-B Dental Floss and Neosporin Lip Care for slightly more than the regular price of one Sambucol – plus $2.00 ECBs for next time. She was happy!

And I had fun with my best childhood friend!

Inspiration & Encouragement: Sing Joy to the World – The LORD Is Come!

2009-12-24T16:08:00.006-05:00

Behold, I bring you good news of great JOY which will be for all the people!
(Luke 2)

JOY to the world, the Lord is come!
Let earth receive her King;
Let every heart prepare Him room,
And Heaven and nature sing,
And Heaven and nature sing,
And Heaven, and Heaven, and nature sing.

JOY the earth, the Savior reigns!
Let men their songs employ;
While fields and floods, rocks, hills and plains
Repeat the sounding JOY,
Repeat the sounding JOY,
Repeat, repeat, the sounding JOY.

No more let sins and sorrows grow,
Nor thorns infest the ground;
He comes to make His blessings flow
Far as the curse is found,
Far as the curse is found,
Far as, far as, the curse is found.

He rules the world with truth and grace,
And makes the nations prove
The glories of His righteousness,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders of His love,
And wonders, wonders, of His love.

Words: Isaac Watts, The Psalms of David, 1719.
Music: Antioch (believed to have originated with Handel) arranged by Lowell Mason, 1836

Did you know that Watts based the words of "Joy to the World" on Psalm 98 and wrote it as a hymn glorifying Christ's triumphant return at the end of the age, rather than as a Christmas song celebrating his first coming as a babe born in a stable?

The LORD has made known His salvation;
He has revealed His righteousness in the sight of the nations.
He has remembered His lovingkindness and His faithfulness to the house of Israel;
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.
Shout joyfully to the LORD, all the earth;
Break forth and sing for joy and sing praises.
(Psalm 98)

Meditate on those truths. Make them personal. Rejoice in your Savior!

Once again, I'm joining "Just for the JOY of It" – and sharing the Savior, the Best Reason to REJOICE on Christmas Eve!

Publix Highlights – 12/16 thru 12/24

2009-12-22T14:30:00.003-05:00

Merry Christmas!

These are the highlights for our family – along with the $5 off $50 Purchase Coupon (from Sunday’s paper).

Betty Crocker Potatoes – B1G1 for $1.75
Use $0.40/1 printable coupon*
$0.08 each after doubled coupon

Kraft Philadelphia Cream Cheese (8 oz) – $1.25 each
Use $1.00/1 printable coupon*
OR use $1.00/1 coupon (Winter Family Savings Booklet)
$0.25 each

Barber Foods Stuffed Chicken Breasts (8 oz or 10 oz) – B1G1 for $4.99
Use $1.00/1 printable coupon*
Stack with $1.00/1 Publix coupon (Winter Family Savings Booklet) (limit one per purchase)
$0.49 or $1.49 each

Betty Crocker Supreme Brownie Mix – B1G1 for $2.59
Use $0.75/2 printable coupon*
$0.92 each

Pure Wesson Oil (48 oz) – B1G1 for $3.69
Use $0.25 coupon (Smartsource 11/15)
$1.35 each after doubled coupon

Pompeian Olive Oil – B1G1 for $6.99
Use $1.00/1 printable coupon*
$2.49 each

Sweet potatoes – $0.29 per pound

Publix Egg Nog – $1.99 per quart

Leg of Lamb – $3.99 per pound

In Uruguay, it’s a tradition to eat roast lamb on Christmas Eve. I’m so thankful Publix has it on sale this week – so we can celebrate in true Uruguayan style with the rest of our Uruguayan family in town!

* For links to the printable coupons (in the comments section, too) and to see more deals with coupon match-ups, check out the weekly post by FiddledeedeeMom.

Inspiration & Encouragement: The JOY of Giving!

2009-12-17T15:50:00.006-05:00

In the fall of 2008, I became an avid couponing fan – and joined the bargaining blogosphere. Previously, I didn't see why anyone would try to save $0.35 on a brand name item when store brands were almost always cheaper and equally good in taste and/or quality. But that was before I understood B1G1 deals combined with double coupons, or coupon stacking, or rebates.

While concentrating anew on frugality, I've often been reminded that we frugalistas must not forget to focus on generosity and biblical good works as well. My favorite bargain bloggers often emphasize the expanded opportunity to give to others – because a frugality focused on God enables us to do so!

This week I was again made aware of an opportunity to give. A dear family friend, recently laid off because her customer service job was sent overseas, shared with me how God has been meeting her needs. It was a real JOY to hear the details! Instead of feeling sorry for herself, she has been focusing on others less fortunate. In the middle of her need, she found a single mom with three very young children in need of all the basics – including toiletries.

I'm so excited! Thanks to bargain shopping, there are four big boxes of basic toiletries stored under a bed in our house. (Printing coupons sometimes feels like printing money!) So, today I'll be putting together three packages of basic toiletries: one for my friend, one for her mom in a nursing home, and one for the family she's adopted.

Although it's only a small gift for each of these in need, it's an opportunity to help, saving significantly on otherwise paying full price for (or trying to go without) the basics. And it's a blessed reminder that bargain shopping isn't only about me and what I can get. Rather, it's about wise stewardship of the resources God has entrusted to me as I simultaneously look for opportunities to serve God, my family, and others.

There is JOY in showing Christ's love to others – especially at this time of year when they may be more inclined to listen because carols played publicly are telling of the Savior!

I'm once again joining "Just for the Joy of It" and sharing another reason to rejoice – finding JOY in giving!

All because God first gave us the Savior!

What's Cookin'?

2009-12-16T15:16:00.000-05:00

Pumpkin, pumpkin, and more pumpkin!

One of the two huge pumpkins we were given right before Thanksgiving is being put to good use!

I must not forget to mention the roasted "pepitas" or pumpkin seeds – especially after doing a quick internet search and finding out how healthful they are! I roasted these only lightly, putting them in the oven (which I'd turned off) after our Pumpkin Bread was done. I stirred them once after the first ten minutes and then a couple more times at random before going to bed. They stayed in the cooling oven overnight and are just the right consistency to eat even without peeling.

We also made a huge batch (at least 35 cups) of pumpkin puree, some of which has been incorporated into two other recipes, with the third in the works.

We really enjoyed our Creamy & Spicy Pumpkin Soup, although the blend of spices is probably meant for adult tastebuds. We did have great success in getting our toddler to eat a bowl full by adding in an extra half cup of pumpkin puree to her soup (to mellow the spiciness) and by bribing her with pieces of cheddar cheese – which she loves!

I used Beef Base (1 tsp per cup of water, instead of broth or bouillon) for the first time ever and was very pleased. (The first ingredient in Beef Base is beef, not salt.) The only negative is that the soup tends toward a brown instead of orange hue.

We also made a triple batch of Classic Pumpkin Bread. Very yummy! I'll probably experiment with adding in chocolate chips next time. (Everything's better with chocolate, right?!)

Next up is a stew, based on the "Puchero" that is a classic in the Rio de la Plata region of South America. It's probably their version of "comfort food" – but so much more wholesome than so many! Stay tuned for that recipe...

Recipe for Classic Pumpkin (Sweet Potato) Bread

2009-12-16T14:43:00.004-05:00

(Initially adapted from a Better Homes and Gardens Cook Book, I now updated this recipe with a mashed sweet potato substitution, the result of a late-night, last-minute scramble. We now actually prefer this version!)

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
1 cup all-purpose flour
¾ cup sugar
1 Tbsp baking powder
¼ tsp baking soda
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
¼ tsp ginger or cloves (or both!)

Mix dry ingredients thoroughly, and then add:
¾ cup pumpkin puree + ¼ cup mashed sweet potato (OR 1 cup pumpkin puree)
½ Tbsp molasses
½ cup milk
2 eggs
¼ cup + 2 Tbsp butter

Mix all ingredients together with electric beaters on low speed until well blended, then beat on high speed for two minutes.

Add:
1 cup bread flour

Beat well and then stir in:
½ cup chopped walnuts (or pecans)
½ cup raisins

Pour batter into a greased 9 x 5 x 3 inch loaf pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 55 to 60 minutes or until toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for ten minutes on a wire rack before removing from pans. Then cool thoroughly. Wrap and store overnight before slicing.

Enjoy!

Recipe for Creamy & Spicy Pumpkin Soup

2009-12-16T14:34:00.001-05:00

To economize on time and resources, I doubled this recipe so it would make ten one-cup servings. The original recipe is posted at About.com.

Ingredients:
2 Tbsp olive oil
2 small onions, sliced OR 2 Tbsp dried onion
2 tsp “Mrs. Dash” seasoning
2 tsp ground ginger
2 tsp cinnamon
½ tsp nutmeg
8 cups fresh pumpkin or (winter) squash puree
1½ cups (12 oz can) evaporated milk
½ cup whole milk
5 cups chicken or vegetable broth (or bouillon)
1 to 2 tsp sugar

Instructions:
In a large pot, heat oil and sauté onions until lightly fragrant (or until soft if using fresh onion). Add remaining spices, cooking for 30 seconds or so. (Be careful not to burn the spices!) Stir for another minute and then remove from heat.

Add 3 cups of liquid, one at a time, and then add pumpkin puree. Stir (or blend) until smooth. Add the remaining liquid and heat all until simmering. Add sugar to taste. Add salt, if needed.

Garnish with pumpkin seeds, bacon bits, sour cream, or grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar cheese.

making pumpkin puree

2009-12-16T14:13:00.003-05:00

On the Tuesday evening before Thanksgiving, we were given two HUGE pumpkins. They had served their purpose as part of the decor for a Thanksgiving Banquet:

They're not "pie pumpkins" – but some quick research yielded the verdict that carving pumpkins belong to the "winter squash" family and are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. So, I was excited about the opportunity for a frugal challenge. (Having grown up in South America, I'm constantly shocked at how much we can "afford" to throw away here in the USA!)

The first step involved recruiting my Dearest to help cut the biggest pumpkin into three large chunks. This is the largest chunk – representing almost half of the pumpkin:

After scraping out the seeds with an ice-cream scoop, I covered the first chunk of pumpkin with aluminum foil and placed in on a pizza stone in the oven at 350 degrees, checking on it every half hour or so until it was fork-tender.

The largest chunk took about two hours to bake.

After cooling slightly, I scooped the baked pumpkin from the rind with the ice-cream scoop.

The first pumpkin – the largest – yielded this much:

After storing the chunks in the refrigerator overnight, I began making pumpkin puree the next day. Since I don't have a high-quality blender, I found that the pureeing worked best if I added about one cup of water per batch being blenderized.

The result was pumpkin puree with an applesauce-like consistency – which we actually prefer.

Not counting the pan (front center in the picture above) full of chunks (reserved for stew), the largest pumpkin yielded over 35 cups of puree! There's been lots of pumpkin cooking and baking going on around here, and I'll probably freeze the 20 or so remaining cups for later use.

And there's still the second pumpkin to attend to...

Walgreens Deals – 12/16 thru 12/19 (Diaper Deal Included!)

2009-12-16T13:43:00.004-05:00

There’s another 4-Day Sale at Walgreens – starting today, December 16 through Saturday, December 19. AND there’s another Spend $25, Get $5.00 Holiday Dollars (aka Register Rewards) Deal! Reportedly, the Holiday Dollars are valid only on Wednesday and Thursday of this week.

Here’s a deal idea (thanks to NWA Deals) that involves a good diaper deal! (It seems like diaper deals have been few and far between lately.)

Huggies Diapers or Pull-Ups – $8.99
Use $2.00/1 printable coupon (link here)
OR use $1.50/1 printable coupon (link here)
Get $2.00 RRs
Submit for Caregivers Marketplace Rebate (Get $0.75)
$4.24 or $4.74 each after coupon, rebate, and RRs

Gillette Fusion Razor – $8.99
Use $4.00/1 coupon (P&G 11/29)
Get $4.00 RRs
$0.99 after coupon and RRs

Complete Multipurpose Solution – $7.99
Use $1.00/1 coupon (Redplum 10/25)
Get $7.99 RRs
FREE plus $1.00 overage after coupon and RRs

Get $19 RRs back!

Check out more deals with coupon match-ups at NWA Deals.

CVS Deals – 12/13 thru 12/19

2009-12-15T13:18:00.001-05:00

The first three items are part of the 3-Day Sale – ending today!

Merry Brite Holidays Bows (12 count) – $2.99
Get $2.99 ECBs (Limit 2)
FREE after ECBs

Merry Brite Red & Green Holiday Gift Tissue (20 count) – $1.99
Get $1.99 ECBs (Limit 2)
FREE after ECBs

Merry Brite Peel ‘N Stick Gift Tags (50 count) – $1.99
Get $1.99 ECBs (Limit 2)
FREE after ECBs

And I had another rain check for Glade items:

Buy $12 of Glade Products, Get $4.00 ECBs (Limit 1)

My Deal:
Two Scented Oil Candle Holders – on sale $3.00 each
Two Scented Oil Candle Refills – $4.69 each
Use two coupons for Free Refills (up to $3.99 value) wyb any Holder
Stack with two $1.50/1 Candle Holder
$0.40 total for everything after coupons and ECBs!

Furthermore, I paid with $17.88 in ECBs and $2.22 out of pocket (mostly tax), and left with $17.94 ECBs more! Gotta love CVS!

You can see more deals with coupon match-ups at MoneySavingMom.

Publix Highlights – 12/15/09

2009-12-15T12:47:00.003-05:00

These are the highlights at Publix this week. With the exception of the Penny Item, all are good through Tuesday – that's today!

Celestial Seasonings (20 count) – B1G1 for $3.59
Use $1.00/2 coupon (SmartSource 12/06)
$1.29 each

Fresh Express Salad Blends (4.5 oz to 12 oz) – B1G1 for $3.99
Use $0.55/1 printable coupon
$1.45 each

Polaner 100% Fruit Spread (15.25 oz) – $2.95 each
Use $1.00/1 printable coupon
$1.95 each

I also used the rain check I got for eggs two weeks ago:

Eggland's Best Eggs (18 count) – $2.50 each
Use $0.35/1 coupon (SmartSource 09/13 or 11/01)
$1.80 each after doubled coupon

And the Penny Item this week was Publix Hot Chocolate!

Frugal Christmas Fun: The Holiday Village at Piazza Bergamo

2009-12-11T13:35:00.001-05:00

Attention, local readers:
The St. Francis Foundation Holiday Festival is underway downtown!

FREE events include:

Festival of Stars:

Stroll Main Street and Augusta Street to see how downtown retailers have decorated to support the Holiday Festival. Enjoy beautiful window and door dressings.

Festival of Trees:

Enjoy the beauty of the season! View the beautifully decorated, locally sponsored trees at the Hyatt Regency and Hampton Inn & Suites at Riverplace.

Holiday Village at Piazza Bergamo:

Experience a European-style holiday marketplace and a treat for the whole family with artificial snow, complimentary carousel rides for the kids, and complimentary entertainment. Operating on weekends during the holiday season at Piazza Bergamo downtown.

Check out all the details on the schedule of events.

We visited the Holiday Village at Piazza Bergamo with PaPa and Grandma two years ago and had a lot of fun making some special family memories!

Parents and grandparents get to ride, too –

to help the little ones, of course!

Inspiration & Encouragement: Messiah!

2009-12-10T16:53:00.003-05:00

I absolutely love Christmas music! I could listen to it all year – and sometimes try to do so!

We've had a ("kind of") family tradition of adding to our collection of Christmas CDs every year. Several years ago at a Christmas sale, we picked up a 2-CD copy of George Frideric Handel's Messiah. To my joy (I like history!), the CD jacket states that this recording was done in 1996 by the Trinity Church Choir and Orchestra at Trinity Church, the church where the oratorio was premiered in the New World in 1770, twenty-eight years after it was written. (What a great tid-bit of history!)

Messiah has been a long-time favorite because it is based on exact words of Scripture. Listening to the oratorio helps me memorize (or review) specific Bible passages that tell about the Savior – prophecies in the Old Testament and their fulfillment in the New Testament. It's a great educational tool and memory aid!

And here's another history tid-bit: Messiah was not originally a Christmas piece; it was performed at Easter. Therefore, this is one "Christmas" CD that can be (and probably should be) listened to all year!

My extended family is right now feeling very keenly our need to renew our minds with God's truth as our dear fifteen-year-old nephew fights a rare bone cancer. We are also experiencing God's abundant grace. We have so much to be thankful for and rejoice in!

So, I'm joining "Just for the JOY of It" and sharing reasons to rejoice – and focus on Christ, the real reason for celebrating Christmas (and Easter)!

What's Cookin'?

2009-12-09T15:34:00.004-05:00

We're blessed to be living from the stockpile in the pantry. (I'm so very thankful for coupons – and stores that match their sales to current coupons!) But there's still nothing like the aroma of fresh-baked bread, filling the house and greeting my Dearest as he walks in after a long day at work – especially on a gray and rainy winter day!

And I tried out a new recipe yesterday: Banana Split Bread! I was so excited to be using ingredients that were mostly the result of recent couponing and bargain-hunting:

Frugalista Ideas:

If you bake Christmas goodies as gifts for family and friends, this new twist on an old favorite could be a more economical variation on the traditional fruitcakes.
Add some water to the "juice" drained from the pineapple bits and maraschino cherries, and enjoy a very refreshing bargain beverage!

Stay tuned for pumpkin recipes! We were recently given two huge pumpkins, so I'll also be making pumpkin puree – and then making and baking a bunch of pumpkin recipes, as well as freezing some puree for later use.

Walgreens Deals – 12/09 thru 12/12

2009-12-09T14:43:00.010-05:00

Walgreens is running a 4-Day Sale – starting today, December 9 through Saturday, December 12.

At the top of the list is the Spend $25, Get $5.00 Register Rewards Deal! There is reportedly a precedent of the $5.00 Register Reward printing for an order over $25 before coupons (and before tax). If so, it can be a really good deal.

Here’s my plan:

Renu Multi-Purpose Plus Solution Twin Pack – $9.99
Get $9.99 Register Rewards
Use $2.00/1 printable coupon
FREE plus $2.00 overage after coupon and RRs

Just For Men Touch of Gray Hair Color – $6.99
Get $6.99 Register Rewards
Use $2.00/1 printable coupon
FREE plus $2.00 overage after coupon and RRs

Neutrogena Men’s Skin Care – $4.99
Get $4.99 Register Rewards
Use $2.00/1 coupon (December All You Magazine)
FREE plus $2.00 overage after coupon and RRs

Stayfree Feminine Care – $1.99
Get $1.99 Register Rewards
Use $1.00/1 coupon (from recent sample)
FREE plus $1.00 overage after coupon and RRs

Select Conair Brushes or Scunci Hair Accessories – $2.00
Get $2.00 Register Rewards
FREE after RRs

And I must not forget some of the “regular” deals for the week:

Chinet Plates – on sale B1G1 (2 for $2.99)
Buy two and use two $1.00/1 printable coupon (link here)
$0.49 each

Carnation Evaporated milk – $0.99 each after in-ad coupon
Buy two and use $0.50/2 coupon (SmartSource 09/27)
$0.75 each after coupon

For more deals with coupon match-ups, visit MoneySavingMom.

December 10 Update:

Before coupons, this represents a $51.55 value. However, thanks to coupons and a friendly Walgreens that allowed those coupons (including $15 Register Rewards, which would have expired tomorrow) to exceed the number of items in the transaction, I paid only $15.35 out of pocket – and I walked out with all this plus $31 Register Rewards more! (It almost reminds me of the excitement of the EasySaver Catalog Days!)

Recipe for Banana Split Bread

2009-12-08T15:55:00.018-05:00

According to my friend who shared the recipe, this bread will make you want to jump up and down!

Ingredients:
½ cup + 2 Tbsp butter
1 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla
4 eggs
3½ cups flour
2½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 medium)
1 can (20 oz) pineapple bits, drained
1 jar (10 oz) red maraschino cherries, well drained and chopped
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:
In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar with the vanilla. Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; add to the creamed mixture alternately with bananas. Fold in the pineapple, cherries, chocolate chips, and nuts.

Pour into two greased 9 x 5 x 3 inch (or 8.5 x 4.5 x 2.5 inch) loaf pans. Bake at 350 degrees for 60 to 65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. (For four 5.75 x 3 x 2 inch pans, bake for 50 to 55 minutes.) Cool for 10 minutes before removing from pans to wire racks. Let cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy!

Book Review: Christmas Cheer

2009-12-04T00:45:00.005-05:00

My almost four-year-old and I have had opportunity to review Christmas Cheer, a Custom Designed Project Pack from Hands of a Child, a premiere lapbook provider since 2002. This was our first experience with the idea of lapbooks, and I enjoyed exploring the concept. I have a vested interest since we’re planning a four-month trip for next summer – and I’m intensely interested in projects that can be done in a car seat!

The philosophy behind the idea of Project Packs (and lapbooks) is that student learning improves when lessons incorporate hands-on projects or crafts. Children learn by doing, and Project Packs put learning into their hands!

The possibilities are endless when a student begins a lapbook with a Project Pack from Hands of a Child. There are no age or skill limits, and any topic or subject can be worked into a Project Pack. All the work is done for the parent/teacher, but not for the student. In addition, Project Packs are easy to store and are an instant review tool, scrapbook, and ready-made portfolio of all the student’s studies.

The Christmas Cheer Project Pack includes instructions and reproducibles for 15 hands-on activities for a Pre-K through 1st grader to work on over a 5-day period. Each day has a different theme including snow, Santa Claus, reindeer, and various decorations. My one complaint is that a book about “Christmas Cheer” does not include the main Reason for the Season – the birth of Jesus, the Savior. (In the publisher’s defense, I must add that other Christmas Project Packs do include HIM.)

The 51-page Christmas Cheer e-book contains:

Poem: “Christmas Cheer”
Supply List (comprehensive, for all 15 activities)
Day 1 Activities
Day 2 Activities
Day 3 Activities
Day 4 Activities
Day 5 Activities
Recommended Reading (to supplement hands-on activities)
Folder Instructions (to make a lapbook from a file folder)

I like the e-book format because pages can be easily printed instead of photocopied.

Although we did not complete all the activities, our favorites so far are:

Mini Book: Decorating the Tree
Puppets: Snow People
Shapes: Santa Claus

My little one and I enjoyed some real quality time, working on the projects together, looking forward more than ever to the joy of the Christmas Season.

The price depends on whether an e-book, printed book, CD, or combo, is purchased. The cost for Christmas Cheer (Pre-K through 1st grade) is $12.00 for the e-book. In my opinion, the price seems a bit steep for a pre-school packet that has no research included. Having taught in various settings for over fifteen years, I’m accustomed to making my own worksheets. However, because doing so can be time-consuming (and time is a most precious commodity to a teacher-parent), I can also appreciate the value of having reinforcement activities pre-made and ready to go!

Because of the hands-on educational value it represents, I think the Christmas Cheer Project Pack would be a great addition to a young family’s Christmas library. It can also be a tool for teaching little ones the much-needed lesson of giving at Christmas (instead of just getting) by having them make the projects for others – grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, neighbors, etc.

Disclosure:
A complimentary e-book was provided to me, as a reviewer for Mama Bzz, by Hands of a Child in exchange for today’s blog tour.

A big “Thank-you!” to the folks at Hands of a Child for the opportunity to enjoy and review this fun Project Pack!

Inspiration & Encouragement: Yes, it's still Thanksgiving Season!

2009-12-03T11:44:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving Day was one week ago today. Last week was a blur for my extended family – with days (and, for some, nights) spent at the hospital...

But we have so much to be thankful for.

On a lighter note, our almost four-year-old came up with her own list of blessings.

Whether we're old enough to recognize the burdens of life or too young to see much farther than the end of our noses, we have been blessed!

Because of God's grace, giving salvation, we are bountifully blessed indeed!

It's still Thanksgiving Season!