The NEW Undomestic Goddess

Change your bookmarks...

2009-10-05T16:50:00.000-07:00

It's up!!! This site will officially be moved to HERE. The new address is beprovident.wordpress.com I think you will like the cleaner design and shorter address for one. Added bonus- I can update it from my phone, which will make it easier to keep up to date. Spread the word and take a gander. THANKS!!!!!!

Heads Up

2009-09-25T07:37:00.000-07:00

I'm creating a new blog to replace this one. The new address will be beprovident.wordpress.com I have decided I like WordPress better than Blogger these days. Plus, my account has reached it's photo max. I hope to have it ready by the end of the day, or the end of the weekend at the very least. It's going to be great and way better than this one!

Attention Wal-Mart Shoppers

2009-08-18T09:18:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know I know.... I practically fell off the planet. Guess I was enjoying my summer a bit too much. But this is the last week of summer now so you can rest assured there are regular posts to be resuming. I have some great shopping examples from the last couple of weeks to show you. I am teaching Grocery Smarts classes again so be sure you get in touch with me to schedule a free class and get your $20 gift card. I also have some fun creative ideas to show you, projects we've been working on around here, for the creative side of this blog.
(p.s. There's a new Arizona list for my AZ friends!)

In the meantime....
Have you caught the Wal-Mart clearance going on? I was first alerted to this last Friday by my friend Nikki. She said that all their toys $25 and under were marked down to $2. Well, I wanted to verify this myself but couldn't make it there till nearly midnight on Friday. While that information wasn't entirely accurate, I did find some toys still marked down to $2 from normally around the $12 range. Additionally, I learned when I checked out that this is the time that Wal-Mart typically has their big clearance sales. Being clearance, it's not advertised. But the cashier informed me that she has worked there for a long while and virtually the whole store goes on clearance in these couple of weeks every August. A little note about this: my store is the Centennial Wal-Mart and so I can only say what I know for that store. The following day I went to the Aliante Wal-Mart because I was in the area and curious about if they had the same toy clearance going on. Each store is different in the items on clearance. I did not find nearly the same clearance (in fact some stuff I'd gotten the night before for $2 was on clearance there for $7), but I did find a generally larger selection and just plain different stuff. You have to keep your eyes peeled though because these stores can be tricky about where they hide their clearance items and it is different by store, even by season. But just keep your eyes open and you might find some awesome steals! I now have pretty much all our presents for cousin Christmas gifts purchased and that's a lot of savings.

ALSO, Have you checked out Springs Preserve here in town? If you have a library card then you can get a discount when you visit before October 14th. Just show your library card and receive a free Child's Pass when you buy an Adult's Pass or a 20% discount of an Annual Pass.

VONS store closing

2009-07-20T16:20:00.000-07:00

The Vons store on Sunset & Stephanie is slated to close this Saturday, July 25th. 50-75% off items already. Take your coupons and really stretch your wallet- but be prepared to deal with lines!

Make Your Own Hamburger Buns

2009-07-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Frankly, I'm pretty excited to make THESE. Smitten Kitchen, I love you!

Cirque du Soleil SALE

2009-07-15T09:34:00.000-07:00

Please visit this LINK for full details and sale amounts. Las Vegas Cirque shows are offering special summer pricing (which I have never seen happen before). In addition to this, when you buy two tickets, the second ticket is just $25! That gives you a potential savings of over 40%. Additionally, this is not a locals only sale and I've noticed the show dates on sale go into October.

Free Movies

2009-07-06T21:55:00.000-07:00

Hopefully you are all aware of the free family film festival that Regal Cinemas does over the summer. It is a fabulous way to beat the heat, kill summer boredom, and see some shows for cheap! Check out the schedule here.

Awesome Emergency Pack Sale- TODAY ONLY!!!

2009-06-29T07:14:00.000-07:00

All this for just $19.99!!!!!

Hurry on over to this site. Today only!

Thanks Charlie for alerting me to this steal. I needed to update some the supplies in my packs, and even if I don't need full new packs this is a cheaper price than it would be for replacing those supplies I need.

Sorry

2009-06-29T07:08:00.000-07:00

First of all..... I have been out of town for most of June. Then, upon returning, I found everyone in my family quite sick- myself included. So I apologize for the lack of posts and updates. And if you have tried calling me recently I may not have returned your call because I was out of town and then unable to talk. You can call me back though if I don't get you called soon. Hopefully you will all forgive me. =)

I wanted to let you know about the Smith's Beef recall though. Read the details HERE but it involves beef packaged by Smith's (you know the kind- in the styrofoam and plastic) and with May dates.

Hope you all are having a happy Summer! Remember when doing your shopping to plan ahead for those impromptu bbqs, potlucks, and road trips so you can take advantage of great deals and not feel limited due to budget constraints. And hopefully you are able to enjoy more this summer thanks to all your great grocery savings- I know I have already!

Free Redbox....and Grocery gift cards!

2009-06-01T13:04:00.000-07:00

Redbox is only doing free Mondays on the first Monday of the month now. Here is your code for today (expires midnight CST): FM63H7

And in other breaking news....

We're making a change in the Grocery Smarts gift card policy and you can take advantage of it for a limited time only.

When you order 2 subscriptions you get a $5 grocery gift card

Order 3 and get a $10 gift card

Order 4 or more and get a $20 gift card

If you did not order your subscriptions previously or need more, act now!

You need to have your subscription information and payment to me by Thursday, June 4th at 5pm to take advantage of this.

After that this will only be available for subscriptions purchased at a Grocery Smarts class.

If you would like to host a class to earn another $20 gift card and other great incentives, contact me asap! I am filling up my summer schedule and would like to book it full.

Minimum attendance of 8 newbies required.

Subscription info:

$45.50 new subscriber

$19.50 each additional (new or current subscriber)

6 months (26 weeks). Sunday only.

Fixed rate (will not auto-renew but you will get a renewal offer for the same rate)

Max of 5 subscriptions per household.

Recommended: One subscription per household consumer

Contact me:

halabilly@gmail.com

629-2713

Couponing Updates

2009-05-27T10:30:00.000-07:00

First of all...I have had tons of great shopping trips lately that I have been meaning to post. I'm sorry! I'll get to it. We have a super busy summer with back to back vacations so I've been trying to get organized for that. Here's some other info to hold you over for now though:

* The Albertson's list this week is delayed due to the holiday. Keep checking back and hopefully it will be up by this evening.

* There were no coupons in this past Sunday's RJ. Remember, they don't come on holiday weekends but are generally doubled the weekend before or after the holiday.

* I just learned on Saturday that Vons has a policy of not taking more than 2 coupons that are the same in a single transaction. So even if you buy 4 dressings and have 4 coupons, they would still only accept 2 of the coupons. I am in the NW and the manager at that Vons does in fact enforce that policy.

* I have had a number of people contact me about wanting to start their RJ subscriptions. PLEASE make sure you get them to me by Thursday night both this week and next so that I can get them turned in before other weekend plans get in the way. Remember it is $45.50 for new subscribers. $19.50 for each additional (or if you are already a subscriber). They are 6 month, fixed-rate, prepaid subscriptions for Sunday-only papers.

* I may have a busy summer but I still have openings for classes. Host one today to get your $20 gift card and other great opportunities!

Price is Right

2009-05-14T14:20:00.001-07:00

Did you know that Vegas has it's own live show of The Price is Right? Yup! You can win prizes and everything. I secretly really want to go. I'm also afraid though that I know what I am willing to spend for things now because I have a good feel for good sale prices and so I'm afraid I wouldn't be good at guessing actual retail prices. But still! It's just $40 right now for tickets purchased up through May 25th (not shows through then). Click on the image above to be taken to the site.

Monday Movie

2009-05-11T10:27:00.000-07:00

Today's FREE Redbox code is: 6A43JK.

Expires midnight CST tonight!

NEW Grocery Smarts lists locations!!!

2009-05-11T07:29:00.000-07:00

Great news friends! We have some new lists for those of you not in Utah or Nevada. Now you can save big like me too with minimal effort!

For Southern California click HERE.

For Eastern Washington click HERE.

For Idaho click HERE.

Monday Movie

2009-05-04T08:31:00.000-07:00

Today's free Redbox code is: BT73H9

Don't forget, expires tonight at midnight CST!

And, just so ya know, I'm happy to have you share the information I post on here. I simply ask that you reference the source and preferrably link back to me. It's a courtesy thing. =)

Grocery Store comparisons

2009-05-03T21:35:00.000-07:00

For whateve reason I got ambitious and decided I needed to try to hit all the stores this week just because. Here was the results. You judge for yourself where the best savings is. Remember, this is not the norm for me. I usually hit just one store a week and still save big!

CVS

TV: $99.59

SAVED: $54.46

SPENT: $45.13

Savings of 55%

* Also have $2 ECB to use on a future purchase. Factor that in and it makes it a 57% savings.

* I could have actually spent less on this promo or saved more. However, we go through 3 tsp of Zyrtec a day in this house so that was a definite need for me to catch on sale.

Albertson's

TV: $185.31

SAVED: $104.72

SPENT: $80.59

Savings of 57%

** I also got 2 free movie tickets ($24 value) AND the Pop-Tarts boxes had a promo to send in 5 tokens from them to get more free movie tickets. I got 5 for that reason alone so I'll be getting another free movie ticket.

* I am normally brand-specific with my deodorant but for just a buck I thought I could give a new one a try since I was out of mine. I also plan to use all these pop-tarts with our upcoming camping trips and road trips. The Melba Snacks were a non-sale item.

Smiths- I will post this when I find the receipt that I can't figure out how it got misplaced from the others.

Walgreens- I will post these stats when I find the dang receipt I somehow misplaced!

Vons

TV: $247.12

SAVED: $97.84

SPENT: $149.28

Savings of 40%

* I got a $10 voucher to use. Factor that in and it is a savings of 44%

* I was SUPPOSED to get an additional $50 in vouchers. The ad is a bit misleading in the way it is worded and you do need to separate your transactions. I plan to go back and get those additional vouchers. With those vouchers, they way you should do this sale, the savings is 64%!

Do you have a shopping success story? Please share! Email me your photo and stats.

Want to book a free class or subscribe to the RJ? Email me or give me a call at 6 2 9 - 2 7 1 3

Movie Monday

2009-04-27T10:24:00.000-07:00

Here is your free Monday Redbox! Code is: 4CW33N. Expires tonight (4/27) at midnight CST.

To add to the delightment... Grab some grub for less! 80% off at one of my favorite sites. Good thru 4/30 at midnight PST. Code: LUCKY

NEW Grocery Smarts lists!!!

2009-04-27T09:43:00.000-07:00

Did you see? 2 of the new lists are up and running on Grocery Smarts. Vons and CVS are now available! Yay! Let me tell you... you'll want to check out that Vons sale for sure! For the lists, please go here.

More inspiration

2009-04-27T07:15:00.000-07:00

HERE is a fabulous new world of inspiration for me. I hope you enjoy! I will be adding it to the list of links on the right.

Also, please pardon if there is a lack of posts. I will try to keep this up to date and I do have Grocery Smarts posts for you. I am working on creating a new and better blog for this site though so my time has been going that way. I am also working on getting some extra money to get some of those darn bills paid off so that needs to come first too. You can help by hosting a Grocery Smarts class. Then you'll get a gift card too! You do need 8 newbies in attendance but that's it!

Cooking Blog

2009-04-25T20:34:00.000-07:00

I love being inspired creatively, especially in the kitchen. That is why I am loving this blog I recently stumbled upon. It's written well, tasty, and just plain yummy to look at! Okay, truthfully, I would be happy to look through cookbooks for hours and have 2 bookshelves full that are ever expanding.

Community-wide Yard Sale

2009-04-24T17:27:00.000-07:00

Our master-planned community, Providence, is hosting a great big yard sale tommorow 4/25 from 7am to noon. Various residents throughout the community will have treasures untold for sale in their yards. We'll be one of them. Some of our stuff can be previewed HERE. We're even having a bake sale too! I am not going to post my address on here but I will let you know that I am in KB- Cambridge. If you need baby and children's items, then I've got it! Hope to see you! =)

Grocery Smarts Basics

2009-04-23T13:35:00.000-07:00

How do I shop smart? You wouldn't believe how easy it is! I use a free website service that helps me plan my weekly shopping list and ensures I am only buying items that are truly good deals. Then, I get coupon inserts from the Sunday paper (1 for each person in my family, I get 5). By combining the online shopping lists with the coupons, I save hundreds of dollars each month on my groceries! Five papers seems like a lot, but don't worry... at my classes I teach you how to cut your grocery bill in half AND can also hook you up with a sweet deal on the Review Journal!

Where do you go from here? Before you do anything else, you need to get over to the Grocery Smarts website and print off a shopping list! If you have recently started a newspaper subscription to get the coupons, then you'll need to be patient for the first few weeks while your collection of coupons grows. That doesn't mean you can't start using them and saving right away though! Each Sunday you'll get more inserts and each week you'll find yourself saving more. Within about a month, you will have a nice pile of inserts to pull coupons from and will start noticing a real difference on what you spend at the store.
Then, over the course of the next few months, you'll notice your panty will start filling up. Your drawers will start filling up and every spare spot you have on a shelf or in a cupboard will be filled with the food and products your family consumes each day. You'll have those items you need for that recipe because you will plan ahead and buy typical items when they're on sale. Your hubby (and your piggy bank) will love how much you are saving and you'll love that you have a nice stash of family supplies and food storage that builds each week. And, it'll be so satisfying to know you did it for less, much less!

But how do you do it? Trust me, it's easier than you think. You're not going to clip coupons until you actually use them. You will simply label and file and I will show you the super easy, non-fancy way to do that! It takes maybe 5 minutes to make that shopping list using the website above, and then another 10 or so clipping all your coupons. Then you're out the door and you're done!

Help! If you need a little more instruction (or you just want some extra bonuses), then I encourage you to attend a class or set up one yourself. Classes are free, just like the website is. When you host a class you have the opportunity to get added perks, such as $20+ in grocery store gift cards and advanced couponing tips and tricks. There is an 8 person minimum for a class but your friends will be so thrilled that they'll be anxious to attend. Especially if you are being a smart shopper and have the proof to prove it!

Contact me if you have questions, want to schedule a class, or need more papers

Heather Worthen

629-2713

halabilly@gmail.com

Earth Day Happenings

2009-04-22T08:57:00.001-07:00

Here are some things to do or ways to celebrate Earth Day with your family this year:

First of all, I am very excited about this earth movie by Disney. My kids and I love the Planet Earth series from the Discovery Channel. This is only 100 minutes long, so I think it will be perfect. It opens today.

And, of course, you'll need to consider visiting the Springs Preserve this Saturday, April 25th for their "What On Earth Day". Featuring Earth Day Olympics, scavengers hunts, special tours, live entertainment and more from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission to the exhibition and performances are free to the public, standard ticket prices apply for admission to museums and galleries.Home Depot also has some offers you may want to check out. 1 million free CFL bulbs- 1 per customer, while supplies last. Started yesterday. Buy 1 get 1 free seed packets through April 28th, while supplies last. Free water saving aerator faucet insert, 1 per customer, while supplies last.

Other suggestions for things to do:

Plant a garden

Visit a local park or conservation area (Tule Springs/Floyd Lamb, Red Rock, Valley of Fire etc) and help pick up trash.

Find items around your home to recycle or repurpose

Join your local freecycle organization.

Turn off half the lights in your home, unplug half the appliances, or change out all your bulbs for CFLs to help reduce energy consumption.

Recessionista Style Swap

2009-04-22T08:50:00.001-07:00

Courtesy of KLAS-TV news:

There is some retail relief on the way for women who want something stylish to wear but need to stick to a budget.
It's called a Recessionista Style Swap and here is how it works. Just clean out your closet and be willing to swap your items for someone else's. Tickets to the event are $10 and you must RSVP in advance to SERVICE@OFFTHELISTCONCIERGE.COM. You can also pay $20 at the door.
The event takes place on Friday, April 24 from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. at the VOX Wine Lounge, 2630 W. Horizon Ridge (Horizon & Eastern).
Try to bring three to 10 stylish new and gently used clothes and accessories.

Are you HOT?

2009-04-21T13:36:00.000-07:00

Then get some ice cream! For FREE!
Click the image above to find your nearest participating Ben & Jerry's ice cream shop.

You're welcome. =)

Attention Bookworms!

2009-04-20T08:08:00.000-07:00

Do you love to read or love books like I do? Here is a fabulous site for you to check out. You post the books that you are willing to swap along to other people. It's a one to one exchange. When you mail a book to someone then you get 1 credit. Each book 'costs' just one credit. Plus, you get 2 credits when you've posted your first 10 books. When you get a book you can either keep it and add it to your collection or you can add it back into the system when you're done reading it and pass it along. If a book you're looking for isn't on someone's bookshelf then just put it on your wishlist and you'll automatically be notified when it appears! They also do audio stuff and dvds. I had orders for 2 of my books within 10 minutes of posting them. It made me feel pretty good to know that these books are going to someone who wants them. The only cost to anyone is the cost of postage, which it automatically calculates the cheapest form for you. I'm tellin you... I think it's pretty sweet! Click on the image below or the new button I added to my sidebar.

Cleaning Game

2009-04-19T20:25:00.000-07:00

Don't we all look for better ways to get our children to help out around the house? Or maybe it's just getting ourselves (or spouses) to get a dang thing done? Well, that's me! That's why I created this cleaning game. It has worked really well for us. You can read about it HERE.

Heads up!

2009-04-18T10:05:00.000-07:00

Albertsons has recalled the Quaker products being included in the buy $20 get $5 off in their ad for this week. So only the Scott, Cottenelle, etc.. products in the top section of the ad are included. There was a ad recall at the front of the store.
Heather B...This would be why you weren't able to get those Quaker cereals!
I'm so sorry for not getting to the store earlier in the week this week. I just have had one of those weeks. =)

** I am thinking of changing my blog and am looking for new ideas. This blog was started for myself to keep track of creative ideas for myself and to share frugal and fun ideas with friends. I'm debating on whether the Grocery Smarts stuff has sort of taken over and if I should start a separate new site (and which one to break off). Please email me if you have any suggestions or input!!! I do it for you too and want to make it easier and more worthwhile to spread the word!**

Local. Las Vegas.

2009-04-17T22:15:00.000-07:00

Here's a site with some deals for all you Las Vegas locals like me. You know... stay-cations are all the rage... =)

Creative Idea: Egg Dyeing

2009-04-14T11:16:00.000-07:00

Mark this one for next Easter. My friend posted about a new way she found to dye eggs and they look AWESOME. I can't wait to try it myself. We just might find ourselves dyeing some more eggs today for the fun of it!

Check it out HERE.

Dining Out Savings

2009-04-14T09:32:00.001-07:00

Now through Monday April 20 at midnight!

Click on the image above or go to Restaurant.com

Enter discount code: FEAST at checkout.

ENJOY!!!

No Coupons

2009-04-12T09:09:00.000-07:00

Just a friendly reminder that there are no coupons in today's newspaper as it is a major holiday. You received 2 last week as compensation. =)

Happy Easter!

It's Caselot time!!!!

2009-04-01T13:56:00.000-07:00

If you are a caselot shopper you probably already know it is caselot sale time at Smith's! Now, before you get too excited I just wanted to remind you of a few things and give you some of my personal planning tips.

* Don't assume it is a good price just because it is a case sale. Check the Grocery Smarts list. Stick with the 4 and 5 star items like usual. Remember, you won't be able to use your multiple coupons like you usually do so you might not actually get as great of a price.

* Check expiration dates! One time my husband came home with a case of brownie mixes that expired in 6 months. We got very creative with the brownie mix recipes.

* If you won't use it, don't buy it. Even if it is a good deal.

* If you are on the fence about an item, particularly a 5-star, ask yourself if you will use it or if it will make for a good addition to your food storage or emergency preparedness kit.

* Think ahead! It's nearing summertime. For many that means bbqs and picnics and potlucks with friends (not to mention vacations!). Maybe there is a great sale item that you don't necessarily use on a regular basis but that would be great to take to a party or on a road trip. For me, it is why I buy soda, chips, and premade cookie dough when they are on a great sale. I have never stressed so little about throwing or attending a last-minute shindig. I also stock up on the granola bars, fruit snacks, pudding cups, canned chili, canned fruit, and instant oatmeal for camping trips and emergency preparedness kits.

* For smaller families: If there is a case sale on an item you want/need and is a great price but you won't use a case in the time before it expires...find a friend and split the case!

* Last but not least, don't forget to check the other stores. They've got to compete with the case lot so you may find some great deals there as well!

Before you toss out those Sunday papers...

2009-03-30T14:16:00.001-07:00

Yesterday's paper had an insert for ToysRUs that has coupons in it for car seats, strollers, and Pampers diapers and wipes (note: these are store coupons, which means you should be able to use any manufacturer coupons on top of it, provided the same requirements are met)!

Also, don't forget to keep the Walgreens one if you want to use any of those coupons!

SmartBargains Secret SALE

2009-03-24T10:26:00.000-07:00

2 days only! CLICK HERE

Personally, I have been eyeing some new slipcovers for a while now. They're so hard to get a great deal on though! No more. I got one for the loveseat for under $20! Extra bonus- go to retailmenot.com for additional coupon codes. All my purchases were home items (bath sheets and slipcovers) and there was a code for an additional 10% off. In all I saved 56% on my whole order.

February Spending/Saving Report

2009-03-23T09:37:00.000-07:00

Drumroll please....

Total Value: $878.39

Manufacturer Coupons Savings: $164.85

Fresh Values/Preferred Card Savings: $375.63

Total SAVED: $540.48

Total SPENT: $337.91

That's a savings of 62%!!

Call now to schedule your free class on using this free website! If you get 8 or more new moms (or dads) to attend, you will earn a $20 gift card. Extra incentives for even more attending. It's all free. I just get to offer you the awesome discounted newspaper subscription and teach you about using this fantastic and free tool!

6 2 9 - 2 7 1 3

halabilly @ g m a i l . c o m

Posts coming soon!!

2009-03-15T18:16:00.000-07:00

Thank you for being patient as this blog has been neglected lately. I was out of the country for 2 weeks and have felt the need to catch up on blogging about that before this (not to mention just catching back up on life in general). It's just hard to get back into the swing of EVERYTHING. Posts to come soon (including my incredibly low spending totals for February).

Awesome Albertson's Savings- 2/18/09

2009-02-20T15:50:00.000-08:00

click on pic to enlarge

Total Value: $293.82

Preferred Card Savings: $122.91

Manufacturer Coupons: $117.40

Total Saved: $240.31

Total Spent: $53.51

Total Savings of 82%!!!

Can you believe it? I nearly couldn't! Did I need those Warm Delights from Betty Crocker? No, but they were FREE! Did I need the cookie pouches? Prob'ly not. But they were 10 cents and I couldn't resist. There's a lot of baking stuff here and that's fine by me. I'm loving having quick treats on hand for pick-me-ups for friends or the baby shower I'm throwing in a couple weeks. I also love that I got 3 whole chickens for 59 cents/lb and that I got some frosting to go with all my cake mixes! And the Cheerios snack mix...perfect for next week's road trip!

In fact, there are 85 items there total so it works out to an average of 63 cents per item. Not too shabby for a 4 lb chicken!

So you can totally do this too! Contact me to book your free class or get RJ subscriptions (up to 5 per household) so you can get the coupons (and multiples of them) too. That shopping trip right there saved me double what I spent on my 5 Sunday paper subscriptions!

finished portrait

2009-02-18T07:45:00.000-08:00

Here is the portrait that I was working on for a while. This is not the finished product but close enough. It felt nice to do some real artwork. This hubby gave it to his wife for her Valentine's present.

Exciting new website

2009-02-13T15:51:00.000-08:00

MGM Mirage has launched a new website that caters exclusively to locals. Check it out HERE. It shows you all the various deals and discounts they offer to locals (and there are many) and how to get them. Also, if you're still looking for a nice dinner date for Valentine's Day, check out their dining section. I'm excited about the new Price Fixe menus they are offering at some of their restaurants. Did you know that as a local you can get priority reservations at Wolfgang Puck restaurants? Yup! Your time is more valuable than a tourist's apparently. =)

Savings Report- Smith's- 2/11/09

2009-02-12T18:13:00.000-08:00

Total Purchase Value: $324.65

Mfg Coupon Savings: $16.30

Fresh Value Savings: $157.54

Total SAVED: $173.84

Total SPENT: $150.81

Savings of 54%

I got a lot of meat (8.49 lbs pork tenderloin, 8.45 lbs New York Steak, 2- 4lb bags chicken breast and a bag of chicken tenders), some produce, oatmeal, cereal, bread, olive oil, ginger, Manwich, ice cream, baggies, and more. Not too shabby!

This week at Smiths....

2009-02-11T22:48:00.001-08:00

I was really nervous about shopping this week. I had a decent amount of non-sale items I wanted to get for particular recipes and because I hadn't previously been able to stock up adequately because I didn't have enough coupons. I've been doing Grocery Smarts since Thanksgiving. Also, the bulk of my list was non-coupon sale items....namely produce and meat.

My heart was literally racing at the checkout when I saw the total. Then I realized my Fresh Values hadn't been figured in yet. And, of course, it was before my few coupons. But still, I got stuff like steak, pork, apples, bananas, olive oil, deodorant, baggies, ginger and more

So can you guess what my savings report will show?

I might even give a prize to the closest guess.

Savings Report to come tommorow

Do you have one too? Email me me!

Grandma's Savings Tips

2009-02-11T15:29:00.000-08:00

My Grandma is famous for being frugal. A couple of years ago I asked her to write down for me her top tips for saving money. I just came across the list again and thought I'd share it with you:

- Always pay your tithing and fast offerings first

- Put some in savings each week

- Clip coupons

- Ads- Grocery list- know your prices

- Don't go up and down aisles- have a list of what is on sale and what you need

- Check receipts and make sure there are no mistakes

- But items on special and use coupons to really save!

- Don't throw out leftovers- serve as a smorgasbord the next night or so. We use tortillas and fill with leftovers.

- Don't eat out very often- it's expensive!

- Use 2 for 1 or Buy 1 Get one 1/2 off coupons

- I was with soap and then dry out plastic baggies

Gosh, I didn't realize just how many of those I was doing almost without thought just by using Grocery Smarts. Makes me feel pretty good and I don't have to put much work into it.

Thanks Grandma!

Madagascar 2 DVD SALE

2009-02-11T09:13:00.000-08:00

Where? CVS

Till when? Sat Feb 14th

How much? $4.99

How do I get it? Buy $20 of these participating P&G products (remember to add to this total before coupons):

Pampers Jumbo Pk: $9.99 (limit 3) Pampers, any $1/1 (3/31/09) PG-2/8 ($8.99 bottom line), or Pampers Easy Ups Trainers, any size $2/1 (2/28/09) RP-1/25 ($7.99 bottom line)

Tide 2x liquid 24-32 loads or powder 31-40 loads: $6.49 (limit 4) Tide Laundry, any .35/1 (3/31/09) PG-2/8 ($6.14 bottom line)

Bounty paper towels regular rolls pk: $6.99 (limit 3) Bounty Paper Towels, any .25/1(3/31/09) PG-2/8 Bounty, any .25/1 (2/28/09) P&G-1/18 ($6.74 bottom line)

Charmin 16 big rolls: $9.99 (limit 3) Charmin, any .25/1 (3/31/09) PG-2/8 ($9.74 bottom line)

Pantene Pro-V: $3.33 (limit 6)- Pantene styling, hair sprays or treatments, any (excludes trial) $2/2 (3/31/09) PG-2/8 ($1.33 bottom line), or Pantene, any (excludes trial) $1/2 (3/31/09) PG-2/8 ($2.83 bottom line)

Prilosec OTC 42ct: $24.77 (limit 3) Prilocec OTC, any $3/1 (2/28/09) P&G-1/18 ($21.77 bottom line)Prilocec OTC, any 42ct $7/2 (2/28/09) P&G-1/18 ($21.27 bottom line) Prilosec OTC, any $1/1 (3/31/09) PG-2/8 ($23.77 bottom line)

Always pads 12-24ct or pantiliners 36-60ct: $3 (limit 4)

Dawn dish liquid 10.3 oz: $.99 (limit 6)

Duracell batteries AA, AAA 8pk, C or D 4pk or 9-volt 2pk: $5.99 (limit 6) Duracell CopperTop 4 pack or larger AA, AAA, C, D, 9V, PowerPix, Ultra Digital (AA or AAA) or Ultra Photo Lithium (123, 223, 245, CR2 or CR-V3) .75/1 (2/28/09) P&G-1/18 ($5.24 bottom line)

Bounce 120 ct sheets: $5.49 (limit 4) Bounce Dryer Sheets, any .25/1 (3/31/09) PG-2/8 ($5.24 bottom line)

Downy 51-52 oz liquid: $5.49 (limit 4) Downy Liquid Fabric Softener, any .25/1 (3/31/09) PG-2/8 ($5.24 bottom line)

Personally, I always have Pampers coupons and they aren't on decent sale much. This is an average price and since I can never have enough diapers with 2 who wear them, I will probably just get a couple packs of diapers with my coupons.

January Savings Totals

2009-02-10T22:20:00.000-08:00

Total Purchase Value: $941.49

Total SAVED: $533.13

Total SPENT: $418.35

Total Savings of 57%

That's an average cost of $17.43 per person per week!

If you want to learn to save like I do, call or email me to schedule your free class. Remember it's all free- the class, the website, etc. Hostesses receive a $20 grocery gift card for 10 or more new people attending and extra incentives for 20 or more.

My calendar is now open from mid-March and forward but classes fill quickly!

If you just want the RJ so you can collect your multiple coupons it is $45.50 for your first subscription (if you don't have one). $19.50 for each additional subscription.

These are locked rates. Sunday only papers. 26 week (6 month) subscription. Available only through Grocery Smarts instructors. I turn them in every Friday afternoon.

Obviously, I have more than paid for my 5 subscriptions.

702-629-2713

halabilly@gmail.com

Local's Valentine's Dessert deal

2009-02-10T16:40:00.000-08:00

got this in my email today

Celebrate your love with an intimate romantic dinner at any of Wolfgang Puck's six fine restaurants. Tell us you're a local, and you'll receive a delicious complimentary dessert. Compliments of the Chef.

spago american cuisine The Forum Shops at Caesars 369-6300

lupo italian cuisine Mandalay Bay 740-5522

CUT steak The Palazzo 607-6300

chinois chinese fusion / sushi bar The Forum Shops at Caesars 737-9700

postrio american cuisine The Grand Canal Shoppes at TheVenetian 796-1110

wolfgang puck bar & grill american cuisine MGM Grand 891-3000

I'm a big fan of his restaurants.

Baby Food Savings

2009-02-09T22:04:00.000-08:00

Total Purchase Value: $28.10

Preferred Savings- $6.30

Mfg coupons- $3.50

Store coupons- $5.00

Total SAVED: $14.80

Total SPENT: $13.30

Total Savings of 53%

That's right my friends. I even questioned how much savings one could really get on baby food. But in my quest to find my son's insurance card today I found a long lost store coupon for Albertson's that was expiring today. As luck would have it, I needed to return some movies anyway and they are in the same shopping center. So I took the opportunity to get some baby food. Lucky me, it was on sale. Gerber 2nd foods $.90 each. This is a good sale on the 2-packs because they are the same price as the jars but you basically get 2 feedings (it's 2-3.5oz packs vs a 4oz jar). So here's how some other fun math worked out:

24 items = $.55 per item

but, figuring the 2 packs and counting each 2-pack as 2 items instead of 1...

39 feedings @ $.34 each

Don't throw away those papers yet!

2009-02-08T22:49:00.001-08:00

In case you missed it, there were multiple inserts in this Sunday's paper. Your usually Smart Source was there. Plus a General Mills insert. Some of mine even had a Betty Crocker insert that I couldn't find in others (which I find weird and plan to do some investigating into)

Sorry no clever pic to accompany. My baby fell down the stairs and I spent the day focused on him. Don't worry, he's fine. Just a broken ankle (and he's 9 months).

Smith's Savings 1/21/09

2009-02-06T10:24:00.000-08:00

I'm playing a little catch-up here

Total Value: $149.96

$36.50 MFG Coupon Savings

$59.94 FV Savings (FreshValues)

$74.94 SAVED

$75.02 SPENT

Total Savings of 56%!

Items not 4 or 5 star: Secret deodorant, ranch dip mix, milk (2 gals), apples

Favorite sale items: Airborne (I got 3!), kleenex, italian sausage (I have a case of spaghetti sauce to use these with!), Ketchup, Kettle Korn

Gemstones Sale

2009-02-06T07:59:00.000-08:00

This one is pretty good. There are a lot that are under $50 and look good. (click on the pic to check it out)

Bonus: Use code FS1222 for an additional 10% off

Savings Report

2009-02-05T06:53:00.000-08:00

(click on pic to enlarge) This week's trip to Smith's (2/4/09)

$155.87 total value

$28.17 Manufacturer Coupon Savings

$61.27 Fresh Value Savings

$89.42 SAVED

$66.45 SPENT

Total savings of 57%!

And here I was worried I wouldn't save much this week because I was buying produce, milk, and meat that I didn't have coupons for...and because I broke my rule and paid around $1 for the cereal instead of $.50. We'd actually run out!

stuff I got: pork chops, milk, spinach, apples, grapes, cereal, pasta sauce, Gatorade, Totinos pizza rolls, Chef Boyardee Ravioli, whole chickens, Gogurt, fruit snacks- 60 items totals

Schedule NOW OPEN

2009-02-04T10:07:00.000-08:00

We have the official green light to start scheduling classes again. Thanks for your patience! If you have wanted to host a Grocery Smarts couponing class and have contacted me then I should be contacting you by week's end. I am still undecided, but I may or may not allow one or two more classes prior to Feb 19th. Otherwise, look for classes beginning again March 10th. If I don't contact you (or if you haven't let me know you want to hold a class but you want to), then please get a hold of me to remind me because I probably just got sidetracked! =)

I have a lot of things going on right now and I apologize if I haven't been all together with it, and for not updating this blog as frequently as I would like. Look for some updates and new posts soon!

In the meantime, thanks for your patience! Let me know if you have any suggestions and please share your deals that you find.

Remember:

Classes are FREE

Website is FREE...just use code 'g89chw' for Nevada lists.

I love hearing your experiences and getting your input

Share the BLOG! And share the code1

The grocery store sales run Wed thru Tue so it's a new sale as of today!

Contact me for Sunday only RJ subscriptions as low as $.75/week! (this is not a promotional rate- it is locked!)

h a l a b i l l y @ g m a i l . com

( 7 0 2 ) 6 2 9 - 2 7 1 3

Did you see?

2009-01-28T15:43:00.001-08:00

I added something new and fun. There...on the side. Do you see it? Look

<----that way! {okay, you might have to scroll down just a tad}

What do you think? I thought it'd be helpful {for both you and me}. Hope you likey!

Gift in a pinch- Craft in a Can

2009-01-20T15:11:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I needed to come up with a gift for a 7-year old girl in a pinch. I was feeling particularly creative and here is what I came up with...

I 'updated' a plain straw tote by adding some ribbon and felt to make a flower on it. Then I made a 'sketch book' by laminating some paper for covers (I got a huge thing of clear paper cover from discountschoolsupply.com), cutting up printer paper, and 'binding' with clips. Lastly, I covered the baby formula cans I've been saving with some cute paper and filled them with an assortment of craft supplies, ribbon, and crayons. I put it all in the straw purse to be a craft tote. I think that in the future I will make 'craft in a cans' by decorating the cans and putting all the required items for a specific craft in each can and then it will be a ready-made gift or activity.

Flashback Films

2009-01-20T15:07:00.000-08:00

The Regal Cinemas at Aliante Station (215 & Aliante Parkway) are showing "Flashback Features"

$5 admission

6:30 pm

Tuesdays

Current schedule:

Jan 20 - Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid

Jan 27- Casablanca

Feb 3- Adventures of Robin Hood

Feb 10- Viva Las Vegas

trying not to squeal

2009-01-20T10:05:00.000-08:00

up to 75% off Michael Kors, Cuisinart, Steve Madden, Cole Haan, Via Spiga, and MORE. TODAY ONLY!!!! (click on the picture)

Now I find myself trying to either talk myself out of getting these shoes or decide which, if not all, colors to get. I feel sexier just looking at these Carlos Santana shoes for $35 (reg $110). Which color do you think? Smartbargains.com has always been so good to me.

$25 gift certificates for $3

2009-01-20T08:46:00.000-08:00

at Restaurant.com. Use code: SAVE (70% off)

I love this!

I also love getting gift certificates to their site (click on the 'give a gift' tab) as birthday presents. The same great savings apply and then the recepient can use to whatever restaurant(s) they want!

Personally I plan to combine this with savings from my Entertainment Book to maximize my savings (coupon from book + paying with a discounted gift certificate).

One example: The Melting Pot- coupon: $20 off Big Night Out 4 course dinner for two. Cost $74 couple. We'll add $6 to cover tax and drinks for a total of $80.

After coupon = $60.

After gift certificate = $35 + the $3 I paid for the gift certificate = $38 TOOP for my fancy 4-course dinner for two.

Makes a pretty decent Valentine's date in my book.

(I would get 2- $25 certificates but that particular restaurant has a rule of min purchase of $50 to use the certificate and I'm pretty sure that'd apply per certificate and my total won't be $100)

Offer valid until Monday January 26th

Local. Las Vegas.

2009-01-20T07:34:00.000-08:00

Tis the season for the local's sale. I meant to do this post a while ago, but...y'know.

If you've lived in Vegas for any amount of time you should know that Dec-mid Feb is our slow season. What this means is that it is the season of locals' discounts to all our fabulous shows. It is also typically low rates at the hotels (though it depends on specific weekends and any conventions). Note that pretty much all locals' discounts require verification with a valid NV id (all of these do).
I'll add to this list as I come across more.

Blue Man Group (one of my all-time favorite shows. I have seen them on tour and twice here in Vegas...and I'd go again in a heartbeat): $42.50 (for regularly $85 seats) and $60 (for regularly $120 seats) thru March 16th. Call 702.414.9000 for available performances and mention code PB1 LOCAL 241. *There is also another offer running using code ACCESS 30 but the tickets are not as cheap.

Phantom of the Opera: Save $50- starting at $64.
Call 702.414.9000 or visit the website. Use code SAVE50 thru Mar 31st.
Valid on Golden Circle or Orchestra seats only.
***Bonus deal: Save 15-25% on your meal if you dine at one of the partner restaurants: Bouchon, Pinot Brasserie, or Postrio Restaurant/Cafe. See this site for more info.

Jersey Boys: 40% off VIP ticket package
Buy orchestra seats @ $135 and get free upgrade to the Absolut Best Seat in the House VIP ticket package which includes: prime front center seats, complimentary cocktail, private theater entrance featuring authentic Four Seasons and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame memorabilia, and a full color oversized souvenir program
Call 702.414.9000 or visit this website. Use code VIPVEGAS thru Feb 12th.

Mystere, Zumanity, or KA: $49
Call 866-241-2833 and mention code LOCAL thru Feb 28th. Limit 6.

*Would you believe that I have lived here all my life and have never seen a Cirque Du Soliel show? My husband has seen Mystere more than once but never with me. I know a lot of people who have seen KA and loved it. Somebody take me already!
{one of my neighbors is a costume designer for Mystere which I think adds to my coolness. I'm totally hitting her up for this year's Halloween.}

Savings SUPERSTAR!

2009-01-18T14:04:00.001-08:00

Meet my new friend Rachel. She is awesome and has already started saving a ton on groceries, without even attending a class yet. See, you can do it too! She posted about her trip to the store and she did such a fabulous job and had such a wonderful post about it that I am sharing it here (with her permission, of course). ...

"I attempted my first ever Sale-Plus-Coupons-In-Hand Grocery Trip yesterday. And let me just say that is was AWESOME. I actually walked out of the store smiling (for real). My new full-time job is running this household of seven. That means it is my job to make things last, stretch, and look fantastic. And for me, if this is my job, I want to do it On Purpose and Well. I want to be a spectacular wife and mother–not just a great mom, but graceful and amazing.

Being a new SAHM means learning new skills and utilizing existing ones. It means getting to be in charge. :) And this year, for me, it mostly means honing my new craft: Coupon Shopping. 2009 is going to be a great year of learning for me, Rachel. I feel self-improvement knocking at the door–and I love it. I have two specific household goals for this year:
1.fully stock our year supply of food storage and emergency preparedness items.
2. Shop on a grocery budget of $360/month.

What??? For a family of seven? Yeah, I know. Trust me, I’ve done the math. It is about 1/2 of what our grocery bill has been for the family since September. And honestly, it is about 1/2 of what is was for just the two of us because we ate out so much.

I pulled out my grocery money, yesterday (cash in $100 dollar bills). When I arrived at the check-out counter I was terrified because I didn’t really know what to do with the neatly clipped coupons I possessed. The check-out clerk was very friendly and helpful. Here are my official results:

Total Value: $273.40
Total Saved: $165.00
Total Out of Pocket: $108.40
Savings Percentage: 60%
# Items: 67
Total Price/Item: $1.62

That is without any Sunday coupons or special advanced couponing. The photo might not look like a ton of food, but anyone who does the grocery shopping knows how much it really is. I even got two cans of soup (valued at $3.29 each) for free. I saved $18.00 on hamburger meat. I bought 12 blocks of cheese for $20.00 and five tubes of toothpaste for under $5.00.

You can’t see the two cases of bottled water I bought for $5.00 total–saving $10.00. We do not drink bottled water to save money. But we do need it for our emergency gear and food storage…same with the extra toothpaste and instant oatmeal. Mmmm, there is nothing better than Peaches-n-Cream instant oatmeal for breakfast on a cold morning in the middle of nowhere (aka backpacking food).

Now that we have kids in the house, the landscape of our kitchen has changed. The pantry is full of fruit roll-ups and breakfast cereal. The fridge is full of go gurts and cheese. And I love it!!!"

Way to go Rachel!!! Thanks for sharing!

Grocery Smarts news IMPORTANT

2009-01-15T21:24:00.000-08:00

My calendar is full and I am not booking any classes until I return from a trip in March. Sooooo, what I'm suggesting to you is this... Come to one of the classes that are already booked and bring a couple friends. I will double check with the hostess first when you tell me what date you would like to attend a class. Obviously, I can walk you (or any one else) through the website and general rules of couponing at any time over the phone too (or if you're one of my lucky friends or neighbors...just come over and I'll show you myself- we can make a playdate of it!). I will also happily send you the class notes that I send out after my classes. Share this stuff with your friends! If you still want to hold a class I will put your name on a waiting list and call you when I get back.

You may have heard of some adjustments being made at the RJ. You do not need to worry about this affecting your RJ subscriptions or rates. What it does mean is that if you are considering adding additional subscriptions at a later time, you will want to do so before 2/6 (the last day I can collect subscriptions until they have things worked out) in case it takes another month or more. Don't worry, the rates will still be the same after the freeze and you will still get your paper. This is definitely temporary but, while we hope it lasts less than a month, we have no guarantees for how long. I hate the idea of anyone missing out on such incredible savings just because the timing worked out poorly. A month for me is like pocketing $400 of grocery savings!
* Remember the subscriptions are for "Sunday only" papers, at a super low rate (that I'm not allowed to tell you here) that is fixed. All subscriptions are 6 months at a time and your rate will be the same if you choose to renew at that time as well.

Thanks so much for your patience and understanding!! I don't want any one to feel like they can't use Grocery Smarts or learn things just because I can't schedule any more classes (for the time being). Especially because so many of you really wanted to come to the last couple of classes at my home but were unable to because of scheduling conflicts. I am still happy to teach you myself and want you to learn how to save your family loads of money on your groceries. Remember, start using the website now! You don't have to have the paper to save money or to use the website (you just will need it for the coupons to save as much as I do). The website is free and it's all so quick and easy. What's your reason not to? =)

halabilly @ gmail . com
(702) 629-2713

Heard from a new couponer

2009-01-15T07:37:00.000-08:00

"The class that you taught last night was so inspiring. I am excited to get started right away."- Amber

I love getting feedback and your stories. Thanks so much for sharing!

Ulta Coupon

2009-01-14T08:16:00.000-08:00

I love me some Ulta. ENJOY! =)

Costco deals....good or bad?

2009-01-13T09:02:00.000-08:00

HERE is an article about whether Costco (and other warehouse clubs) really are all they're cracked up to be. Now, I have nothing personal against the store. Obviously, there are a few good things to go there for. But, for the most part, your regular ol' supermarket is the best bet. It's good to be informed!
Here's a couple snippets from the article.
"In all but a few cases, you can beat warehouse club food prices at supermarkets by combining weekly store sales with manufacturers' coupons."

and I love this one because I think it's the most common misconception:
"Save your paper plate, paper towel and napkin purchases for the supermarket. "Toilet paper is extremely expensive at the warehouse club," says Mary Hunt, the founder of money management site Debt-Proof Living. At Sam's Club, a 36-pack of Charmin Ultra was $18.32, or 51 cents a roll. A 24-pack on sale for $9.99 at Safeway works out to 42 cents per roll -- and is easier to store."

Cheapo Family Mags

2009-01-12T21:20:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Kimber (see Kimber Loves a Deal on my blog list) for finding this awesome deal!

For a limited time only get 1 year subscriptions to Family Fun or Wondertime magazines for $2!!!! New or renewal.
I tried it out. It works. The prices adjust when you checkout. Yay. I used to read these back in the day at all my ob/peri appts {I say this like it was oh so long ago}. So fun. And my 5-year old needs more mags to make collages from for his weekly homework assignments.

Wondertime link
Family Fun link

oooooohhhh

2009-01-11T21:41:00.000-08:00

Because this blog is about more than just saving money, but also being inspired.

Just found THIS. Had no idea you could do such a thing! I'm excited about the possibilities. I was just thinking, "I need to find something to do with all those plastic bags other than stuffing pillow coverlets to make fake throw pillows" {no, really, I was}

Lesson Learned- This week at Albertson's

2009-01-11T20:54:00.001-08:00

This week at Albertson's poses a unique opportunity for saving money. Not only do several items on sale match up with coupons that equal killer savings, but there are several coupon types to use for many items and a gimmick that makes the sales even better! So, I am here to share my experience with you and to teach you a little lesson.

Prepare If you haven't been getting the paper, there are still many coupons you can use that can be printed. You can also take advantage of the gimmick sale (buy $30 and get $15 store vouchers/coupons) to maximize your savings. You will, however, need to plan ahead to make your totals and divvy your purchases into multiple transactions, since there is a one-reward-per transaction limit. This is a little advanced couponing and I don't want to lose anyone. Want more on that? You can hold a class and get 12 new people there and you and a friend can go to an advanced couponing class.

In my anxiousness to get to this sale, I am sad to say that I screwed up. I didn't plan it all out ahead of time. This one (because of the gimmick and multiple couponing options) would take a little longer than my 5 minutes I usually spend on preparing. I forgot this and hastily rushed to squeeze my trip in to the store on a busy night...because there were some things that I needed that night. So, let me tell you...even a Grocery Smarts instructor can make mistakes {gasp!}. Shocking, I know. Try not to hold it against me please.

Here is what happened and what went wrong. I rushed to the store. I had a friend. I got distracted. Some of the stuff was listed as part of the gimmick but didn't have signs so I wasn't sure because in my haste I also didn't grab a store ad for double-checking (after all, it is entered by a human...but it turns out that most of those things without the signs really were still part of the gimmick after all). I changed my mind on some items and didn't readjust my calculations. I didn't total up everything and separate my transactions correctly. I got all flustered at checkout and was trying to hurry and was more worried about others than doing it correctly myself. I had a really weird cashier who didn't really help matters. I even almost forgot to enter my Preferred Card number. I didn't use all my coupons (even though I had them!), because I was quickly trying to give him the applicable ones for each transaction because he was rushing me and I hadn't already separated them as I usually would. Some of my stuff didn't add up because I hadn't taken just a couple of minutes to check, so I didn't get all the $15 catalinas I expected.
Moral of the story: Everyone messes up from time to time but you can still get a really good deal...But you will feel much better and things will go more smoothly if you just take a couple of minutes to plan ahead. Frankly, I tossed and turned all night and even had bad dreams {you know you have a problem when not saving as much money as you know you could wakes you up in the middle of the night}. I considered going back to the store and returning stuff and starting over. Yes, you can return things to the store. But, alas, I decided to be honest with you all and leave it as a lesson learned for myself and {hopefully} everyone else.

So, even so, here was the result of that fateful night:

TV: $270.44

TOOP: $129.73

TS: $150.70

Savings of 55%

Now, I know what you're thinking..."55%, that's still good! What are you beating yourself up for?" Because this sale was SO good that I knew I should have saved much more than that. So you know what I did? I went back. Yup, I needed more of the stuff anyway and I still had those coupons, after all.

So here is how it all went down when I did it right:

TV: $207.09

TOOP: $47.79

TS: $159.30

Savings of 77%

Oh yeah...that's right. That's more like it!
Here's what I did. I took a couple minutes to sort out my totals and coupons into separate transactions. Rolled my transactions {that's some advanced couponing terms for ya}. Got some other 'non-sale' stuff I needed, like baby food and milk. Bought some fruit snacks stashes for my son's kindergarten class. Totally impressed the cashier with my super savvy couponing (she was beaming for me when she actually refunded me $1.07 on my last transaction). Timed myself, just for you.
Took me 90 minutes total for making my list, printing and clipping coupons, going into the store, shopping, checking out, and loading all my stuff into my car. The only thing I didn't count was driving. It's like I made $106.20 per hour!

If you look at the list and feel overwhelmed, just call or email me! I'm here to help. Did you have fun at the store this week? I'd love to hear your feedback!

p.s. On that second trip I got 49 items...which works out to be an average of 98 cents per item!!! Not bad for a jumbo pack of diapers, L'Oreal kids 2-in-1 shampoo, a 24 case of water, Pantene shampoo, or milk.

And the 2 free Blockbuster rentals I mentioned in a previous post? I pay less than $10 a month of my membership that lets me have 1 DVD through the mail at a time and exchange those anytime for an additional free in-store rental. There was a mishap and I got 2 in the mail. I went to get the 1 free in-store exchange and was prepared to pay my special 99 cent rental fee for my other new release rental but they said that I could get two exchanges since each one I had brought in had a different barcode even though they were the same movie. Hence, my awesome night.

More Savings Superstars

2009-01-11T10:33:00.001-08:00

Here's another of Heather B.'s great shopping trips. I'm so proud of her because she has done an excellent job on her own. What's even better is that she is very good at only getting what she needs, which really maximizes her savings.

Albertsons- 12/30/08

TV: $27.26

TOOP: $7.50

TS: $19.76

Savings of 72%!!!!

You're my savings superstar Heather B.!

Savings Superstar

2009-01-11T10:25:00.001-08:00

My friend Heather B. has been super nice to start taking pictures of some of her purchases and sharing them with me. She was the first friend I shared GS with, because I know she likes to save like me, and she's been so excited about it that she texts me every week after her shopping trip to tell me what she saved, even without all of the coupons. Just think how much more she could do with all of them!

Albertson's 1/8/09

TV: $64.35

TOOP: $23.85

TS: $40.50

Savings of 63%!

24 items for an avg cost per item of 99 cents! That's great for that whole wheat pasta she was super excited about (which she actually only paid 50 cents for), and the cereal and pot roast especially.

Great job Heather B!!!!

Albertsons 1/2/09

2009-01-11T10:15:00.000-08:00

TV: $340.96

TS: $202.14

TOOP: $138.82

Savings of 59%

$161.49 preferred savings

$21.15 MQ (manufacturer coupons)

$19.50 SQ (store coupons)

Feature items: T-Bone steaks for $3.99/lb, boxes of 6ct Special-K and Slim-Fast bars for $1.83, single serve protein bars for $.70, Halls cough drops for $.50, Lean Pockets for $.75 (for the box!), 64 oz Juicy Juice for .$88, box of Nestle Hot Cocoa mix (which is going in my 72-hr kits) for $.19!

My first GS trip

2009-01-11T09:46:00.000-08:00

I didn't start taking pictures right away. But I still remember that first night I went grocery shopping with the GS website. Ahh..the excitement. In fact, I was so excited that I hit 3 stores! Yup...Albertsons, Vons, and Smiths. Granted, Thanksgiving was a week away and I needed food for that. I was surprised, too, because I remember it only took me 90 minutes total to go to all those stores. That's less that I would usually spend at one! "Why?" I thought. It didn't take much to figure out why. I usually spent time carefully comparing the per ounce or whatever cost to make sure I was getting the best deal. And then I'd have to make sure I didn't forget anything. With my GS list in hand, though, I didn't have to worry about that. I was only getting 4 or 5 star items so I knew they were great deals. I also stuck to my list, which was all laid out in front of me. So there was no extra wandering around because I knew any impulse buys would mean buying something at a ridiculous price or for more than I would probably end up getting it the next week. So I found my receipts and here's the breakdown of that first night. Remember, this was just using the website. I hadn't gotten my multiple Sunday paper subscriptions to be stacking up the coupons. I did just start getting the paper a week or so before so I did have some coupons, and there were the printables...but mostly these were just smart shopping with the sales. This was the one time I did 3 stores. I quickly learned that it's not generally worth my time to go to more than one. My time is valuable and one store of killer deals is good enough for me!

Albertsons- 11/18/08
TV (total value): $161.29
TS (total savings): $75.56
TOOP (total out of pocket- what I spent): $85.73
Savings of 47%
Avg cost per item: $1.10

Smiths- 11/18/08
TV: $276.24
TS: $133.44
TOOP: $142.80
Savings of 48%
Avg cost per item: $1.85

Vons- 11/18/08
TV: $52.81
TS: $30.40
TOOP: $22.41
Savings of 58%
Avg cost per item: $.97

See? That's why you should start now! Just some of the stuff I got that night: a 20lb turkey, loads of Propel, Gatorade, granola bars, eggs, yogurt, sodas, baking chips, toothpaste, pot pies, oats, soup, pasta (Barrilla even, my fave!), marshmallows, and even some pork chops and steaks! I remember I was stocking up for holiday baking, our Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, and a planned road trip to Disneyland. Thinking ahead to make the most of my savings.

My total among the 3 stores
TV: $490.34
TS: $239.40
TOPP: $250.94
Avg savings 48%
Avg cost per item: $1.41--- not bad for a 20lb turkey. It would be less if I'd counted each lb of meat that is sold by the lb as a separate item

Pretty good for 90 minutes. We'll throw in another 30 minutes for the list and driving just to make it an even 2 hours. It's like I made almost $120/hr!

Class- My House- Tue Jan 13

2009-01-11T09:43:00.000-08:00

My house. Jan 13th (that's Tuesday). 7pm. Bring a friend. Email me if you need the address and to let me know you're coming. Thanks!

My Awesome Night

2009-01-09T20:34:00.000-08:00

Tonight

2 Free Blockbuster rentals

$210 of groceries for just under $48 (and it was only an hour total- making the list, clipping the coupons, shopping, checking out, loading, and walking to/from the store)

Tell ya 'bout it tommorow. I'm having a movie night with my hubby.

Another GS Class?

2009-01-08T15:25:00.000-08:00

So, so many of you emailed me about wanting to attend the couponing class on Tuesday but were unable to because of scheduling conflicts... What do you think...should I do another class this Tuesday or would that be too soon? I'll do one if 8 of you contact me and let me know you can come for sure. The sooner you can start saving, the better in my opinion (plus, my weeks are quickly filling up with classes other people are booking). I'm thinking I'll plan on it but let you know if I don't get 8 'for sures'. That means, let me know ASAP instead of the day of. I was a bit blown away by the 20 who showed up this week (not that I'm complaining!). =)

So, what say you?

It's practically FREE

2009-01-07T08:18:00.000-08:00

I'm BAAaaack! Okay, so I sort of took {a little too much} time off from blogging for the holidays. Well, I'm back and I have so much to share with you! I'd love some comments and input. I have some changes and updates to do as I have time. My kids and family still come first but I'm going to try and do something daily here- at the very least it will be weekly. I have some great creative ideas to share as well as major savings for you. So here's something to get you started:

This FRIDAY and SATURDAY ONLY.

Children's Orchard on Ann Rd & 95.

Buy $10 in infants clothing (0-12m only), get $10 store credit.

Max store credit $30.

This is great for me. I'd probably go and buy my baby's clothes in one transaction. Then I'd have them ring up the clothes (or toys or whatever) for the rest of the kiddos as a separate transaction and use the store credit for all that. If you aren't familiar with Children's Orchard, they are individually owned, children's resale stores. They range from baby to 12 years. They are particular about the quality of the items they accept so you're pretty likely to get good, quality stuff that is not overused. With 4 growing kids, it's another great way I save lots of money. Just be warned that the store is stuffed to the brim. If you can avoid taking your kids or strollers, I would advise it. I noticed that they currently have a lot of strollers (particularly doubles), cribs, and a few bikes in stock.

Sale Sneak Peek

2009-01-06T22:26:00.000-08:00

The new grocery store sales and corresponding coupons will be posted on Grocery Smarts tommorow. I happened to catch a sneak peek. Here's some things at Albertsons' that I am particularly excited about:

Wild Harvest Organic Pasta Sauce- $1
Wild Harvest Organic Mac & Cheese- $.25
Bisquick- $.50
Bounty Paper Towels 8 giant rolls- $4.75
Charmin 9 mega rolls- $4.75
Fiber One Bars- $.75
Cheerios- $.50 (Multigrain Cheerios for just $.25!)
Gillette Fusion Razor- $1 !!!
Green Giant Vegetables- $.25
Pampers Jumbo Pack- $4
Cheer Laundry Detergent- $2.15
Yoplait 8pk Gogurt- $.88

Now, listen {read} carefully... If you are not currently getting the newspaper and saving your coupons, don't fret. Take advantage of this sale anyway. Many of these prices are available with coupons from just this past Sunday or with printable coupons (the link will be there in the list). Call me if you need help 629-2713 or just email me, want to schedule a class, want to start getting the weekend RJ ($1.75/wk), or if you want to add Sunday only papers to your current subscription for only $.75 a week!

Modified Christmas Tree

2008-12-14T22:47:00.000-08:00

We typically go to the local nursery to get a nice live Christmas tree. One of the things I was so excited about when we moved was that nine foot ceilings meant finally being able to get those big beautiful trees I always eyed. However, a tight budget this year called for getting creative in the tree department. We decided to forego the traditional tree and the trip to pick one out as a family. We had this cheap little 6 foot tree that we got five years ago at Wal-Mart for $15. I'm talking, you fluff and attach each individual branch and there is none of that pre-lit business. I was worried about how it would look in our tall ceilings to have such a dinky tree, especially since the tv cabinet is taller than it'd be.

So here's what we did:

stacked some garage shelving

covered the shelves with a white fake snow blanket I had

put tree on top in corner and decorate as usual

surround base of tree with stuffed animals and Christmas animals we've collected over the years

add the outdoor lighted trees to make a grouping

hang leftover special ornaments from light fixtures in the house with pretty ribbon

So fun and festive!

The added bonus is that the 7-month old isn't pulling ornaments off the tree (I might mention that neither is the 2 year old) and I don't have to worry about him choking on the random pine needle. The kids love sitting in the laps of the stuffed animals and it gives Kyle some safe toys to play with instead of always going after the tree and lights.

Make your own record bowl

2008-12-11T16:40:00.001-08:00

I bought one of these for my brother when he was working as a DJ. How cool to make one of your own and put a tired record collection to use.

Add this to my list of things to make

2008-12-11T16:31:00.000-08:00

Ahh...the memories. Do you remember playing with these in school? GEOBOARDS! I'd put a picture but I don't want to steal their entire post. Just go check it out. What a super fun, easy, and cheap thing to make. Thanks Rookie Moms (and Mike)!

I'm pretty certain that Pammie NEEDS this dress

2008-12-11T16:23:00.000-08:00

Tree Lighting Frock GIVEAWAY!!!! Have you seen this gorgeous dress? Have you met my daughter? If you have then you know that she pretty much needs this dress. She would wear a dress every day if only I would let her. Lucky for her we live in a climate where it is easier to get away with that for longer. In her perfect world she would be fancy (as in Fancy Nancy) each and every day.

Amy Butler- I love you

2008-12-11T15:59:00.000-08:00

I could not sew. I do not sew. But the Amy Butler patterns I have sewn, I have taught myself and succeeded. I have the book In Stitches that is filled with beautiful patterns and ideas. Even if I haven't had that chance to make all those beautiful projects yet, I like to look and drool and feel inspired. I love her fabrics and only wish I could afford them. But I absolutely and most super love that she has FREE patterns on her site. Here are the current free sewing patterns (and they do change so catch them while you can). I'm not a quilter but I'm certainly extremely tempted to try after looking at these. Don't you love the Nigella one? And the Thea's Puzzle? Don't miss these really cute holiday patterns! Be sure to check out Amy Butler's site (there's also paper craft ideas too)- it's linked there on the side. And thanks to my friend Kori Crookston who once blogged about the baby bibs and stash & dash bags of hers that she made and turned me on to her in the first place.

While we're at it...I'm looking for something fabulous to make the in-laws (particularly my father-in-law) and maybe my stepmom. Got any ideas? Send em my way!

Groceries

2008-12-05T06:10:00.000-08:00

This is why you should use Grocery Smarts even before getting the newspaper and all the extra coupons you'll get from it! I shopped at Smith's using the database and buying only 4 & 5 star sale items (with the exception of the 3-star M&Ms because I needed them for Bunco on Tuesday). I didn't use any coupons (though the sweetened condensed milk should have been with a coupon, but I did not have it).

Total Value = $146.37
Fresh Value Savings = $58.85

I paid $87.52! (40% savings)

What I bought: 3 gallons of milk, 3 toilet bowl cleaners (my favorite brand even!), 10 large cans refried beans, 2 large cottage cheese, 10 jars salsa, 3 bags Tostitos, 3 loaves bread, 4 lbs oranges, 6 cans sweetened condensed milk, 4 bags of Hershey's baking chips, 3 jars marshmallow creme, 6 bags M&Ms, 4 dozen eggs, and almost 5 lbs of boneless skinless chicken breasts.

Obviously I am not going to use all of this right away. But with the 6 of us it won't last as long as you might think. The refried beans will last Billy about 12 weeks, when they are likely to go on sale again. The salsa won't expire until 2010 but it'll be gone before then. The bread will last a couple weeks at best. With the holidays I now have plenty of stuff for baking and making holiday treats: cookies, egg nog, fudge, etc. Yay!

Did I mention the list is free, easy, and took me a total of 3 minutes to organize my Smith's shopping trip? Fabulous! I should also mention that just using one set of coupons with my shopping typically results in an average savings of 60% thus far for me.

Holiday Entertainment for cheap

2008-12-03T14:50:00.000-08:00

A friend asked me to share what my favorite things to do around Vegas this time of year are. Here's the list:

The Magical Forest at Opportunity Village The most expensive of the offerings but totally worth it and still possibly cheaper than a movie. It's been a family tradition for as long as I can remember. Some hints: Bundle up. You'd be surprised how it can suddenly get cold at night in Vegas, especially for little kids. Check your gift baggie for additional savings: free hockey tickets, free return tickets, $5 Shell gift card. Go on Thrifty Thursdays for $2 off admission with a donated bag of gently used clothing or household items. Don't forget to check out the Gingerbread house display featuring gingerbread houses decorated by local chefs, many who work on the strip. Don't feel like you need to get a 'passport' (and don't get one if you don't have kids with you)- you'll still have an enjoyable time without it.
The Gift of Lights A drive-thru light display. Pack a van with friends and family for the most bang for your buck. Cost is $13 but you can also get $2 off here with a donation bag of gently used items for Goodwill. You can also support the Boy Scouts of America by going Thur-Sun and purchasing some of the hot cocoa, apple cider, or eggnog they sell at the gate.
The Bellagio. Aside from driving around town to check out the holiday light displays people put up on their homes, this is about the best cheap thing you can do- because it's free! Check out the always marvelous displays in the botanical gardens inside. It's sure to be super festive and creative and put you in the holiday mood. Don't forget to watch the dancing fountains out front. If you're lucky you'll even catch a holiday tune, which is especially fun to watch. If it's cold or you suddenly find yourself craving a treat you can go back inside and splurge on some divine chocolate of your choosing from Jean-Philippe Patisserie.
Other stuff: There are also lights displayed now at the Springs Preserve and there is the traditional Chocolate Wonderland at Ethel M. However, I haven't actually been to either of these places so I can't personally recommend them. Another note, keep an eye out on the local news and in the paper for featured homeowner's displays around the valley. They're sure to be worth the drive. There is a display in North Las Vegas that is cool and has a train ride for $1 for the kids. However, I know that it was vandalized one year so I'm not yet certain if they are doing it this year. I recall that it is where there are a bunch of roundabouts- I'll let you know if we make it down there and I get the correct cross-streets.
Also if you hurry you can catch at train ride with Mr. & Mrs. Claus on the Santa train in Boulder City. The event only runs the first two weekends in December though.

For all you piano people (and guitar)

2008-12-01T14:48:00.000-08:00

Musicnotes.com is having a sale today and tommorow only. Enter code CYBER08 for 15% off their already great prices. Expires midnight CST 12/2.

SuperMom

2008-11-26T10:14:00.001-08:00

Today I am going to be Super Mom. Here is what I am going to get done (and I'd strikeout them when accomplished if I knew how)

Take Will to and from school
Feed my brother and his girlfriend (and my family) a nice Thanksgiving meal
Do a load of laundry
Sweep the floor
Do the dishes
Put away stuff
Return some items to the store
Make this week's grocery list and print coupons
Cook a turkey
Make rolls from scratch
Bake pumpkin bread
Make pumpkin pie (still undecided on this)
Make an apple pie (also undecided)
Go to the grocery store (probably with all the kids)
Take a shower
Get dressed, do hair and makeup
Wash that nasty window on the door to the backyard that is covered in dirty handprints
Make cookie salad
Make mashed potatoes from scratch
Take care of 4 little children
Take some treats to my neighbor whose kids are sick
Catch up on some blogging
Put away the rest of the laundry
Vacuum all of the upstairs
Clean all of the bathrooms
Have the kitchen all clean from all the cooking before dinner

Creative Cookin

2008-11-25T19:33:00.001-08:00

So I was thinking that every great undomestic goddess should be able to get creative in the kitchen with whatever is on hand. For example, tonight I had leftover rice and ham in the fridge. I made fried rice using those and some eggs, soy sauce, and green onions I had. Super easy and I felt pretty good for making full use of my leftovers and not letting things go to waste.
With the holidays there are bound to be leftovers aplenty. I've already been trying to plan for my leftovers. At this point I'll be sad if I don't get any.
I'm thinking crescent squares with turkey instead of chicken, 'shepherds pie', stuffing balls (pretty sure I saw that somewhere- otherwise I might just try making it up), turkey and cranberry salad, and of course lots of turkey sandwiches.
Got any other great ideas?

These look fun

2008-11-21T10:31:00.000-08:00

While looking for a sewing pattern I once saw and wanted to make but apparently failed to bookmark.... I came across this. I've been looking and trying to think creatively for some ways to repurpose our clothes.
This looks fun (and while you're at it, check out the rest of the site. I think I like it!)

Easy kids pants out of a t-shirt

Pretty sure this website is a new favorite!

Stock Up Savings

2008-11-19T07:04:00.000-08:00

With my surgery a couple weeks ago and the recovery, I haven't been grocery shopping in over 2 weeks. So we basically had nothing left to eat. We'd been eating our food storage as it was. We even made milk from powdered milk {gasp}. So last night was a big replenishing grocery trip. Here's what added up:
Vons
TOPP (total out of pocket purchase- what I paid): $22.41
TSV (total savings value- what my coupons and store deals saved me): $30.40
some stuff I got: brown sugar, 2 L Cokes, chocolate chips, 2L club soda and ginger ale, canned corn, paper towels

Albertsons
TOPP: $85.73
TSV: $75.56
some stuff I got: movie candy, Barilla pasta (so my favorite), oats, Gatorade, Propel, marshmallows, cookie dough, cookies, canned pumpkin, soup, jell-o snacks, egg beaters, Manwich, Reddi Whip, oranges

Smiths
TOPP: $142.80
TSV: $133.44
some stuff I got: a crapload of cereal, baked cinammon apple sides, chicken pot pies, toothpaste, granola bars, yogurts, cucumbers, lil smokies, jam, baking chips, cool whip, peach pie filling, Pam spray, cheese, cream cheese, milk, eggs, sour cream, butter, toilet paper, 4lbs sirloin steak, 3lbs hamburger meat, 5 1/2 lbs pork chops, and a 20lb turkey.
*Get your turkey at Smiths! It is only $6 for a 16-20lb turkey with a $25 purchase. A comparable one at Albertson's is a good deal at $1.79/lb and buy one get one free- but even buying 2 and splitting the cost makes it about $10 for just a 16lb turkey. Mine was 20lbs and still just $6.

Total purchases: $250.94
Total savings: $239.40 (54%)
177 items for an average of $1.42/item

Now, this may or may not look like a lot to you still but I got a lot of multiples of a lot of stuff and I got a lot of meat. I'm pretty happy with myself for thinking ahead to get things for holiday meals, holiday baking, and trips while they were on sale. I am labeling them as being set aside for those things so nobody uses them. And when you've got a family of 6 the cost of meat alone adds up pretty fast. Especially since my toddlers eat as much of it as I do. I'm pretty stoked just about refilling my meat stores. I now think I can have what I've got last for a month. I even stocked up on 'sick drinks', knowing that we are headed into 'sick season' and I hate not having the right stuff on hand when you feel like crap.
I should add that I know I could have saved more using Grocery Smarts. I used their principles but I had already cut out my coupons and stuff so I did all the planning ahead. Also, I don't yet get multiple papers so I didn't have multiple coupons to use.
Also, just a reminder to be aware when you are shopping. There were several times that I picked up an item to stock up on and noticed the expiration date was within a couple of weeks. Just taking a second look I found others that were good for another month, maybe two. If you're gonna stock up you'd better make sure you only get what you can use before the expiration!

Holy Freakin Crap!!! Deal on kids' stuff

2008-11-18T13:14:00.001-08:00

Awesome deals on kids' stuff. Like the stuff they have in school. Play mats, learning toys, art supplies and more. Go now!!! 91% off at the Discount School Supply. (Why 91??) Thanks to this site for the info.

I just got $491.19 of stuff for $97.97

Hint: I also used a coupon code from RetailMeNot for an additional 10% off my order.

Stay well at Station Casinos

2008-11-18T08:09:00.001-08:00

Disclaimer: I am in no way affiliated with Station Casinos at all. Just sharing an ad from the paper.

The Great Holiday Escape $49.99/night package:
includes-
$30 food & beverage credit
$10 off bingo (w/ $25 buy-in)
5x points (in case gambling is your thing)
4 games of bowling (Sunset, Texas or Santa Fe Stations only)
Stay Sun-Thur
For Fri-Sat stays the rate is $79.99
Free suite upgrade at Palace Station based on availability

The Holiday Resort Retreat $199.99 for 2 nights package:
includes-
$10 off bingo (w/$25 buy-in)
5x points
plus choose 2 of the following:
$30 food & beverage gift card
$20 gas card
4 movie tickets
$25 gift certificate to 'The District' (if you stay at Green Valley Ranch)
8 games of bowling (if you stay at Red Rock)

How to get it: Book here or call 495-3895 and ask for the my vacation holiday package
Expires: December 30, 2008
no bingo at Aliante or Green Valley Ranch

I have personally stayed at the Texas Station and at Green Valley Ranch. I have looked at Red Rock's rooms and drooled over them many times over. Both my stays were really great. Texas was nicer than I expected. Green Valley Ranch was a stay that I won and then my super awesome friend DJ worked there and surprised me with upgrading my room to the most incredibly unbelievably awesome suite so that was definitely a great stay. But the hotel was great too, the food fantabulous, and I love shopping at The District.

So who wants to send me and watch my kids for my birthday? =)

Start Planning!

2008-11-17T21:11:00.000-08:00

Black Friday ads HERE (along with some other deals).

Grocery Smarts

2008-11-17T20:47:00.001-08:00

Learn how to save lots of money on your groceries each week. Here is the basic info. Remember, the passport code 'g89ccb' will only work for Nevada residents. This is completely free, extremely well organized, and pretty easy to figure out on your own. If you don't live in Nevada, don't despair! You can still print out coupons by going to their main website. If you live in Utah, you can use the passport code 'g84rcm'. Save big!!!!

Again, you don't have to have the passport code to get the coupons. In fact, you could get those same coupons from lots of different sites. The difference is that you won't be bombarded with ads and you don't have to register to use this site. So simple. So perfect. If you use a passport code then you will have access to ready-made lists of stores and their sale prices and matching coupons. Saves you so much time and effort. It even works like an excel sheet so you can filter out specific stores and highlight and mark just the items you are interested in. Thank you Grocery Smarts!!! And thanks to this great blog for the information.

Enfamil formulas

2008-11-17T14:41:00.000-08:00

Buy 2 Enfamil formulas (Gentlease, Nutramigen, Lipil, or Next Step Lipil) from Target and get a $5 Target gift card.

Why this deal rocks: It is so hard to get any sort of deal on Nutramigen. Most Enfamil coupons don't apply to it and it is $25 a pop. For us that adds up to at least $200 a month for my milk-allergic baby.

Expires: 11/22/2008

Free Amy Butler

2008-11-17T14:00:00.000-08:00

I am in love with Amy Butler Designs. If I can sew her patterns then anyone can. Can't even tell you how excited I am about these free patterns you can download to your computer. Yay Amy Butler!

Killer furniture deals

2008-11-17T13:21:00.000-08:00

Do you need some furniture or home decor? Head to the World Market Center this weekend. That's right... That big huge block looking thing right off the freeway will be open to the public this weekend! Floor models, show samples, and unique pieces at incredible, mouth-gaping prices. I know this because I have insiders. Actually, I have a friend who has gone in the past with an interior decorator's license and her home is decked out in decor from there. I drool every time I go to her house and have to fight the green monster because she has told me the prices she got the stuff for. So go!

You do have to pay $10 to get in but that also gets you a ticket to Opportunity Village's Magical Forest (opening this weekend) and an entry for chances at winning giveaways there. Considering the tickets for the Magical Forest are about that much normally, I'd say that's a pretty good deal.

When: November 21 & 22

Time: 9am-5pm

Where: Las Vegas Design Center at the World Market Center- 495 S. grand Central Parkway

Description: "An amazing selection of designer furniture, lighting, carpet, fabric, and home accessories will be available at drastically reduced prices."

Get yer papes!

2008-11-17T12:31:00.000-08:00

$52 for a year of the RJ (Las Vegas' local paper)

That's cheaper than buying the Sunday paper every week.

New customers only- meaning you must not have subscribed for the past 30 days.

Note: Will renew automatically at the regular rate (which is 4 times this deal) unless you cancel in 1 year.

This deal only comes around about once a year and it's the best you can get!

To get it: call 383-0400 and ask for Operator DM52

Wireless printer

2008-11-17T10:43:00.000-08:00

Dell V305 All-in-One Wireless printer.

I need to be able to put mine out of reach of my son. He keeps stealing my ink cartridges out of my printer and hiding them. I think a wireless printer would be a great solution, though I admit I don't exactly know much about this one yet.

Order from Dell directly.

Price $79

Save $50

Free shipping

Order code: 16252-V305W50

Expires 11/19/08

An Introduction

2008-11-17T10:39:00.000-08:00

I love deals. I love feeling inspired. I love finding tricks to stay on top of things. I am learning and growing each day. I am trying to remember each day that I am truly blessed to be a stay at home mom. This was my career choice. So each day I'm trying to look at it more that way- my choice, not just what I do. I love reading other people's blogs and seeing the ways they are saving money, being creative, making things, or organizing their lives. I'm hoping to keep track of some of my 'ways' here and the things I find on other sites. For my own benefit (because, what mom at the end of the day doesn't often feel like she has accomplished nothing) and because maybe some of you can benefit too! I won't make this all fancy or pretty. That won't be a priority. I will just post on here when I can and I'll embellish when I get around to it. For the stuff on the family go to here to see what we are up to.

The NEW Undomestic Goddess

Change your bookmarks...

Heads Up

Attention Wal-Mart Shoppers

VONS store closing

Make Your Own Hamburger Buns

Cirque du Soleil SALE

Free Movies

Awesome Emergency Pack Sale- TODAY ONLY!!!

Sorry

Free Redbox....and Grocery gift cards!

Couponing Updates

Price is Right

Monday Movie

NEW Grocery Smarts lists locations!!!

Monday Movie

Grocery Store comparisons

Movie Monday

NEW Grocery Smarts lists!!!

More inspiration

Cooking Blog

Community-wide Yard Sale

Grocery Smarts Basics

Earth Day Happenings

Recessionista Style Swap

Are you HOT?

Attention Bookworms!

Cleaning Game

Heads up!

Local. Las Vegas.

Creative Idea: Egg Dyeing

Dining Out Savings

No Coupons

It's Caselot time!!!!

Before you toss out those Sunday papers...

SmartBargains Secret SALE

February Spending/Saving Report

Posts coming soon!!

Awesome Albertson's Savings- 2/18/09

finished portrait

Exciting new website

Savings Report- Smith's- 2/11/09

This week at Smiths....

Grandma's Savings Tips

Madagascar 2 DVD SALE

January Savings Totals

Local's Valentine's Dessert deal

Baby Food Savings

Don't throw away those papers yet!

Smith's Savings 1/21/09

Gemstones Sale

Savings Report

Schedule NOW OPEN

Did you see?

Gift in a pinch- Craft in a Can

Flashback Films

trying not to squeal

$25 gift certificates for $3

Local. Las Vegas.

Savings SUPERSTAR!

Grocery Smarts news **IMPORTANT**

Heard from a new couponer

Ulta Coupon

Costco deals....good or bad?

Cheapo Family Mags

oooooohhhh

Lesson Learned- This week at Albertson's

More Savings Superstars

Savings Superstar

Albertsons 1/2/09

My first GS trip

Class- My House- Tue Jan 13

My Awesome Night

Another GS Class?

It's practically FREE

Sale Sneak Peek

Modified Christmas Tree

Make your own record bowl

Add this to my list of things to make

I'm pretty certain that Pammie NEEDS this dress

Grocery Smarts news IMPORTANT