Mrs. Super Mom

Christmas....Recycle Time

2011-09-15T08:17:00.000-07:00

Money is tight. We all know it. Being El Cheapo has taught me a few things about gift giving. No one cares how much you spend, if they do then well I guess they aren't really someone you should buy for, because we buy gifts for people because we love them and like to show them we think about them.

Last year Big Brother #2 was mad at me because I did buy his gift. This man has everything he wants, I don't ever have a clue what to gift to him. Well this year he can be happy with his homemade gift, I am sure he will like it. I will let you all in on it when I start it.

I am starting early because I am making a quilt for my brothers girlfriend. She gave me some scrubs and I instantly thought, CHRISTMAS! I kept all the pants for myself as they are my new comfy pants. so far this is what I have done. I have cut over 100 6x6 squares. And arranged them. It will be the size of a nice lap blanket I think.

It took me over an hour to find a pattern I liked for the squares. Pulled out a little "Grandma T" in me with the swearing by the time I was done. This is what I came up with. Excuse the bad photos, camera phone. Keeping it real here for yeah!

Long time no post.

2011-09-14T10:28:00.000-07:00

Well I think I may start this back up again. Everything from cooking to sewing to random dumb pictures my almost 3 year old takes.

Speaking of my almost 3 year old. He turns 3 next week. Where has the time gone? In the past year he has learned to spell his name, his colors, row row row your boat and so much more. He knows mom won't take crap but that dad is a pushover. We spent the summer traveling and learning to swim.

Now that fall is here he is back in school. He is now a green frog and not a busy bee. He is the youngest one in his class, and has the longest hair even longer than any of the girls. They get to cut paper. He will tell you this many times. Scissors are dangerous, don't cut your hair with them and we only use them at the table. He must have that embedded in his brain by now.

With his birthday coming up that means Grandma is coming to town. I get 4 days off work.

I am excited to get 4 days away from the man!

I'm not excited about my hippie child turning 3.

2009-08-15T21:50:00.001-07:00

My husband ate like a king today. Recipes to follow......

Smart Sipper freebe

2009-08-06T13:01:00.000-07:00

Sorry I have been MIA.

Life has just been such a rush of excitement.

Arron started daycare and I'm having a hard time with it.

And I have not been shopping much, I guess due to depression with the daycare. I love his daycare, don't get me wrong, but man I just want to be home with my baby!

Anywho

I was getting him some mac n cheese for daycare today since it seems that is all he will eat, and I came across something.

I had a coupon for new gerber graduates milk smart sippers. I was like, well I'll try it, cause the kid cannot just have mac n cheese. We still are BFing but I give him water in a sippy and milk in the morning. I thought it would be a fun treat.

Well I get to the store and I find them, and they had "try me free" peelies on them.

Smart Sippers 3 pack
$3.79
$3.00 sale (2/6.00 sale but I only got one)
$1.00 off coupon
=
$2.00
Plus rebate of $3.00
=
+1.00

yay!

And a WTE friend of mine gave me a great tip, make pasta and mix with baby food for a sauce. Hopefully he will eat it, that way I'm being sneaky mom and getting him to eat his veggies!

My Review of Graco Ipo Stroller - Navarro

2009-06-29T10:37:00.001-07:00

Toys R Us

This compact, convenient stroller is ready to go anywhere and everywhere. Built for action, this lightweight stroller weighs just 17 pounds without skimping on features. There's a roomy, completely accessible storage basket, a canopy with peek-a-boo window and tinted sun visor, an adjustable le...

Perfect lightweight umbrella stroller

BabyArronsMomy Long Beach, CA 6/29/2009

Pros: Easy To Maneuver, Lightweight, Easily Stowed, Smooth Ride, Comfortable, Easy to Set Up, Stylish

Cons: Few Features, No Cup Holder

Best Uses: Infants, Toddlers

Describe Yourself: First Time Parent

I have a different pattern that they no longer carry, but it is the exact set up as this stroller.

We love it. It is not as high priced as some of the other strollers.

The basket is a bit small compared to a full size travel system stroller. There is no cup holder, but not like my cup holder on ym travel system was any good so I do not miss it at all.

It rides smooth.

Easy to set up, just pop the wheels on and snap on the sunshade and you are good to go. The sunshade has a specific place for it so read the directions. I was getting mad when it kept popping off untill I saw that there are a specific place for it to go on and velcro peices that need to be attached right. Now we do not have any problems with it.

It sits up great, my son likes t recline very little and he not once slid down (like in the travel system stroller) or had to pull himself forward.
The belt is somewhat of a pian but we do not use shoulder straps so I could see why a star might be taken away from that but it does not apply to us.

I've had compliments from other moms who love it too.

I can see this replacing out huge stroller fast.

And I like how small it folds and I can carry it with one hand. I now have room in my trunk for groceries!

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My Review of Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes

2009-06-29T10:20:00.001-07:00

Toys R Us

Promotes music appreciation and auditory development by introducing your little one to baby-friendly versions of classical masterpieces by Mozart, Vivaldi, Chopin and Rossini with the Baby Einstein™ Takealong Tunes! A large, easy to press button allows your baby to toggle through 7 high quali...

I know every song by heart

BabyArronsMommy Long Beach, CA 6/29/2009

Pros: Practical, Easy to Set Up, Durable, Lightweight

Best Uses: Infants, Travel Strollers, Toddlers

Describe Yourself: First Time Parent

We call this his baby I Pod. and he loves the thing.

So far after 9 months of constant use it still works like a charm, baby slobber and all.

Songs are easy to remember and fun.

It is easy to push the botton.

There is an off button which we love and the volume buttons are great too.

The handle is great for our 9 months old who loves to carry it around.

Several of my friends children have it too and we all rave about it.

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My Review of Graco My Ride 65 Convertible Car Seat - Spiral

2009-06-29T10:16:00.001-07:00

Toys R Us

Graco My Ride 65 Car Seat the car seat that grows with your child! This car seat accommodates 5 - 65 lbs. SafeSeat Engineering - Engineered & Crash Tested to Meet or Exceed US Standard. Side Impact Tested. Designed with EPS, energy absorbing foam. Helps keep baby secure with 5-point harness w...

Love this seat.. I want one for myself!

BabyArronsMommy Long Beach, CA 6/29/2009

Pros: Comfortable, Stylish, Sturdy, Safe, Easy to install

Best Uses: Toddlers, Infants

Describe Yourself: First Time Parent

I bought this seat after seeing it in person. I fell in love with the style and the color. I love that it goes up to 40 lbs. We put our son in it at the store and he instantly laid back and looked relaxed.

Before I bought it I checked out reviews. I weighed the pros and cons and found that it was prefect for us.

Instalation was easy, the directions are a big help, make sure to read them, the feet need to be flipped under, I would not have known that unless I read the directions.

I am a smaller woman and it was not heavy, I can carry it with one hand. It seems lighter than our infant seat.

It sits up higher than the others, which we liked, he loves to look out the window now.

Not every seat is perfect, but this so happens to be perfect for us. I've told everyone who I know about this seat.

We love the cup holders, even though we do not allow him a bottle or cup while driving (as a safety procaution due to he chokes sometimes) but he puts his toys in them for "safe keeping"

But we were baffeled on why there are 2 cup holders for 1 child. LOL one for sippy one for toy?

sleeping in his seat 5 minutes after his fisrt use

: Picture of Product, Using Product

()

2009-06-16T19:17:00.001-07:00

My husband peeded all over my bathroom. Not messing with you he did. ME!

2009-06-16T08:42:00.001-07:00

Kobe is such a hottie. Yes, I said it.

Target deals I got, yumm lunch!

2009-06-08T13:46:00.000-07:00

Examples of buying with coupons:

Dawn dish soap (large bottle)
$2.49
-$1.50 coupon
=
$1.49

Palmolive (large bottle)
$1.64
-$1.00 Coupon
-$.25 Target coupon
=
$.89

Kraft BBQ sauce
$1.57
$.99 Sale
-$1.00 Coupon
=
FREE

Velveeta Cups (2)
$1.98
-$1.00 off 2 coupon
=
.98

Kraft EZ Mac cups (2)
$.84 + $.77 (no clue why they are different prices!) = 1.61
-$1.00 off 2 coupon
=
$.61

Velvetta mac n cheese (bought 3)
$1.67
-$1.00
=
$.67 each

Soft Soap body wash for the hubs
$2.74
-$1.00 coupon
-$1.00 Target coupon
=
$.74

Colgate toothpaste
$2.39
-$1.00 coupon
-$1.00 Target coupon
=
$.39

Not sale or coupons but wanted:
Tortillias
$1.92

Totol before coupons and sale:
$23.35
Total Paid: 10.02
Savings: 13.33 or 57% not great but better than nothing!

El Cheapo is back

2009-06-06T21:06:00.001-07:00

Sorry I've been MIA for 2 days. When you have a kid, life sometimes just flies by.

So Tip of the day for being El Cheapo

TIP - Sales- Shop sale items for your grocery lists. Not only will you save money, but since different things are on sale every week your food menu is different. It will stop you from ordering Pizza and burgers! Don't get bored with your food. Try new things.

I was amazed. I tried Vietnamese food today and I am in love. I broke out of my box!

The trick to shopping sales it to stock up if they are on things you like and eat a ton of. For us it is mac and cheese. It can go as a side many nights and some nights we are just too tired and have plain mac n cheese. Also try to shop sales and add your coupons on the sale items.

So when you see a good sales (like the day I saw our favorite spaghetti sauce for 95c instead of 1.59! SCORE) took the time to stock up and try new things.

try:
Bean burritos, pot pie, chicken Marsala, or homemade tacos. You will be amazed.. homemade is always better than take out, trust me!

Recipe - El Cheapo

2009-06-03T19:47:00.000-07:00

Chili Spaghetti

1 can chili ready tomatoes
1.5 lbs ground beef (i use a snack size baggie worth)
1 handful or about 1/3 lb spaghetti.

brown burger, drain fat, add can of tomatoes. Boil pasta, drain pasta. Mix sauce and noodles

serve with salad and bread if desired.

Being El Cheapo and junk

2009-06-02T10:05:00.000-07:00

June 2nd Tip

Ok so you think coupons are wonderful, but what happens when you buy all that stuff and then you don't have room for it?

Tip- Eliminate clutter and junk.

This stops you from buying 23789465234981 pounds of rice and 1894761094 house keys (can you never find your keys due to too much junk?).

I took some time to go through all my junk. I was able to get rid of like 4 trunk loads of stuff. Stuff I did not use, need or "where did that come from" items. I never knew how many expired sunscreens I had. If I would have known when I kept buying them that I had some I could of saved money and not bought them.

Simple way to go through your stuff is to take it one step at a time. I find 3 boxes.

Label them :
Save, Trash, Donate

example: go to your bathroom cubbard (yeah start off small)

place your 3 labeled boxes in the bathroom.

Start taking everything out one by one. See that old perfume, yeah 7 years old, gross toss it.
See that new tube of toothpaste, save it, and that never used bath candle the kids would burn themselves on, donate it. Get the Idea? You are neatly getting rid of things. The trash & donate boxes can be taped up and disposed of, and the save box can have it's contents put in their place.

You can work your way up from the small things to the big things, like your bedroom closet.

Rule of thumb:

if you have not worn it :
**** 1 year or it does not fit- donate
****6 months- maybe, depends on if you like it, keep it for 3 months, if you don't fit or you don't wear donate it.
**** Holes and stains and just plain wore out - trash it.
****wore it yesterday - keep it.

Understand?

Same with toys for kids, they out grew them- donate it,but have them donate it, it will show them how to help others.

3 boxes will keep your stuff in it's place. and when you see how many expired sunscreens were in your cubbard and that you now have room for the Motrin, you'll be amazed. Work your way around the house, taking multiple days if needed.

Tomorrow we talk about where to put all your "save" stuff. Until then, don't look in your trash or donate boxes, you don't need that stuff.

(another helpful idea, keep a bag, bin or box somehwere like by your trash or in the closet, if you run across things you wonder why you have don't wait to put them in the donate bin just put it in there, this also helps with clothes. Once a week I find I don't like a shirt or have not worn it in forever. I neatly tuck it in my donate box, when the box is full I take donate it)

Happy sorting!

Being El Cheapo

2009-05-31T16:35:00.001-07:00

I love being thrifty and cheap. It makes me happy to see my bank account. Even though I have a husband and a child I still manage to save money each month with the little money I make.
During this month of June I will be posting easy and hard tips to be cheap and thrifty. Some of you may think I am a little crazy, some may think I am just smart. I'm not gonna lie, something are hard to do, but we make the best of it.

Tip #1. June 1, 2009

Use coupons. I have a binder I keep all my coupons in. I get the paper every Sunday that there are coupons. I print coupons offline. I sign up at websites like Pampers and Vons, knowing they send snail mail coupons and email offer. All the coupons go into a binder that has plastic inserts for them. Each coupon has a place in there own section. One for things like baby, bathroom, food, ect. That way they are easy to find when needed. If I don't cut them out I put them in an envelope and make with the date. Each Month I go through them and recycle the expired ones.

Now by doing this I am able to visit dealseekingmom.com and thriftymom.com and see the deals for the week, and find my coupons easily. Those 2 websites are my favorite. They show the best deals from Walgreens, Rite-Aid, ect.

Coupons can be doubled at some stores, like Vons and Ralphs. Kmart sometimes had double coupons. Sometimes stores will let you stack (use a manufacturer and a store coupon).
It feels good to come out knowing I saved money. Sometimes you can get things for free or close to free.

If I don't need a product that I have a coupon for I mostly won't get the item. Please know that coupon people spend 76% more money than non couponing people. Due to the fact they use the coupons just because they have them. If I can get named brand cheaper with a coupon I'll get it, but if the generic is cheaper, I'll get that. You have to be smart about it. Don't buy something just because you have a coupon.

Coupons take time to master so if you don't get it right away just keep working at it, soon you will be a pro and be able to have stock piles of stuff.

Coupons - a piece of paper can save you tons of money. Use wisely.

June Questions

2009-05-27T17:21:00.000-07:00

So I told you yesterday I was going to offer tips and tricks to being El Cheapo in the month of June.

Do you have any questions for me?

Like how I keep my electricity bill below $20 per month in a large 1 bedroom 2nd Floor apartment?

or How i manage to feed my family of 3.5 (we have a doggie, aka .5) on a budget of less than $125 a month?

I'll be posting my tips along with some cheap recipes I use.

So if you have some questions let me know, I'll work them into my June El Cheapo Challenge.

JUNE

2009-05-26T08:16:00.001-07:00

In June I will be posting each day tips and tricks to being El Cheapo and Mrs. Organized.

Each day will be a tip or tick that I have came across that ha helped me become a cheap person and very organized and clean.

Some tips maybe easy for you to do and some are just far out there people will think I am crazy.

So prepair yourself to make a big change!

(maybe not on weekends, I don't get on too much)

NO COUPONS TODAY!

2009-05-24T08:43:00.001-07:00

For some unknown reason papers will NOT have coupons this Sunday. Sad, I know.

I still made my Sunday walk to Rite-Aid. I check out all the deals for CVS, WAGS, Rite-Aid and on Sunday hit up Rite-Aid for my paper. Today I had all my coupons at home and I only found deals for Rite-Aid this week I liked. Not much, it is a slow week for me.

Dove deodorant
$4.79
$3.99 Sale
-$2.00 Coupon
-$2.00 Rebate
=
FREE +.01

Samy Sencia Shampoo
$7.99
-$7.99 Rebate from "Try me Free" clingie on bottle
=
FREE

-Sun Shade Baby Pool
$12.99
-$5.00 off $25 coupons from Rite-Aid*
=
$7.99

Total Spent: $7.98
Total Saved: $17.49

*I had spent 25$ so I could use my $5 off coupon. We have been looking for a small pool for Arron and this seemed to be the best deal I could find for a blow up pool with Shade. 3.99 (dove) + 7.99 (shampoo) + 12.99 Pool + .50 (oatmeal cream pie) = $25.47 (they took my $5 coupons before other coupons)

Now I'm starving and my kid and husband are sleeping. I could go for a some breakfast.

I am El Cheapo... bunghole

2009-05-21T15:01:00.000-07:00

Went to Rite-Aid again today. Lady would not do the BIGI Free deodorant, so I walked away with only one. If I was more interested in making my stockpile massive I would have taken my coupon back and gone to the other Rite-Aid. But after counting my deodorants last night, I don't need any more.

Got more BBQ Sauce too!!!

I was reading my old posts and I made the comment of calling myself El Cheapo.

Now all I can think of is .............

I am Corn-hole-E--O .....Need t-p for my bunghole.

YES I grew up watching Bevis and Butthead.

I am El Cheapo... need coupons for my addiction.

HELP

Rite-Aid Freebies!!!!

2009-05-20T17:09:00.000-07:00

Stopped at Rite-aid today for my free deodorant... this is what I came out with

Right Guard with cool stripe thing
$4.49
BIGI Free -$4.49
-$4.49 coupon
=
2 FREE

Kraft BBQ Sauce (2)
$2.29
$.99 sale
-$1.00 coupon
=
2 FREE + $.02 overage

Suave Deodorant (2)
$2.99
$2.00 sale (x2 = $4)
$1.00 off 2 coupon
$1.50 rebate each ($3 total rebate)
=
2 FREE

Dry Idea Clinical Deodorant
$8.99
$5.99 Sale
-$2.00 coupon
$5.00 rebate
=
FREE + $1 overage

Organix Shampoo
$6.99
-$6.99 mail in try me free clingie
=
FREE

The worlds most coolest, best, awsomest bed ever.

2009-05-20T15:14:00.000-07:00

I am in love.

http://hamburgerbed.com/

I'm sure if I was 17 again and did not have a family bed I would so be building this in my garage. I would add some fry pillows just for kicks!

OH yeah

2009-05-19T19:25:00.000-07:00

Another earthquake today.

4.1 in Hawthorne

My office shook. I about pooed my pants.

I hate earthquakes.

Rite-Aid deals

2009-05-19T19:20:00.001-07:00

So I had to get a card for Arron and I's 2nd Anniversary and I had some coupons for Rite-Aid so I just got them there. They were not my deals, but they were good cards, perfect cards.

Any who back to the deals

Dry Idea Clinical Strength deodorant
$8.99
$5.99 Sale
$5.00 Rebate
$2.00 coupon
=
Free + $1.01 overage

Kraft BBQ Sauce
$2.49
$.99 sale
$1.00 coupon
=
Free + .01 overage

Total saved: $11.48
Total overage: $1.02

Nothing else for the week, I'm trying to stick to my don't get unless it is free or I nee it and can get it cheap strategy.

BTW Should we get a Wii?

2009-05-17T20:51:00.001-07:00

Earthquake 5.0 here in lbc. Fing scary!

2009-05-15T18:40:00.000-07:00

I think this may work.

Rite Aid starting Sunday had Dry Idea on sale. So is CVS.

Here are the two deals you could get.

Please remember only 1 rebate from Rite Aid so only buy one there!

Rite-Aid

Dry Idea Clinical Strength roll on

$5.99

-$5.00 Rebate

-$2.00 coupon off any roll on dry idea (find the internet coupon from http://www.dealseekingmom.com/page/2/)

+$1.00

(OVERAGE!)

CVS

Dry Idea roll on

2/$5

-$2.00 (use 2 coupons, one for each!)

$2 Easy Care Bucks back

+$1.00

(OVERAGE!)

YAY for free + $1 stuff!

The big diaper debate!

2009-05-15T10:32:00.000-07:00

So I see a lot of women (mommies) who are all about being cheap! Good for us, but they have this idea in their head that because something is expensive, they can just buy the generic and save some money. I'm all for generics, but if I can get the name brand for the same amount or cheaper, I'll go for the name brand.

My biggest issue is diapers. That is where I spend of my free time searching for deals. With a 7 month old, diapers are your top frugal shopping sprees.

Now I love Pampers. They are soft and stretchy. but man the price will blow our monthly budget on one Jumbo pack. Unless you are me. LOL Huggies work great for us too, we are lucky and have found 1 brand that does not work (BRU), all others work fine. I do prefer Huggies at night since my little man pees so much then.

Any who... I see moms say they buy generic since they are cheaper. Posts like Luvs vs Pampers go on all the times. Why not get Pampers for the price of Luvs?

Compare My Huggies CVS deals to CVS brand

Huggies Snug and Dry Jumbo Pack Size 3 (36 count)
$12.49
$8.99 Sale
$1.50 Coupon
$.75 back from caregivers Market place
=
$6.47 per pack

CVS Brand Size 3 Jumbo pack (35 Diapers)
$11.29 per pack
As far as I know I have never seen coupons for CVS diapers.
=
$11.29

Now I'll take the Huggies over the CVS brand since I can get them el cheapo. I've even gotten Huggies overnights at less than $5 a pack at Rite Aid.

Now I know I can get Walgreens diapers for something like 2.50 a pack, and I totally take advantage of that. I'm just saying. If you can figure out how to get name brand diapers for cheap then why not? I never pay full price for something if I do not have too!

A little digging, couponing and I get Huggies for walmart brand prices.

My favorite deals:
Kroger Brand Size 3 (36 Count)
$8.99
$6.99 sale
-$3.00 coupon
=
$3.99

Wags diapers:
BIGI FREE @ $8.99
+
$2 off coupons from pharmacy books (hard to come by)
=
$4 off total
=
$4.99 for 2 packs.

Long Live price comparison and being EL CHEAPO!

Ralphs, made me hungry

2009-05-13T13:25:00.000-07:00

Has to get some cheese for dinner. Bean enchiladas again since they sound yummy. And cheap. LOL

Ralphs

Kroger Comforts Size 4 Jumbo pack
$8.99
$6.99 Sale
$-3.00 Coupon
=
$3.99

Ralphs Mex. Shredded cheese
$3.79
$2.99 Sale
=
$2.99

Anthony's spaghetti x2
$1.79 x2 = $3.58
$-.55 coupon
$-.45 double coupon
=
$2.58

Barilla Pasta Sauce x2
$3.39
$2.50 sale x2 =$5.00
$-1.50 coupon
=
$3.50

Garnier Shampoo (regular size bottle!!!)
$4.59
$1.99 Sale
$-1.00 coupon
=
$.99

Garnier Conditioner (regular size bottle!!!)
$4.59
$1.99 Sale
$-1.00 coupon
=
$.99

And somehow the lady screwed up my coupons in my favor and gave me an extra 55 cents off something!
I also got tortillas and pizza for lunch all on sale.

Savings with card, coupons and double coupons = $18.81

I'm stocked for diapers for a while. I have so many packs of size 4 diapers. I don't know if I should buy any more. LOL Poor kid just moved to 3 a month ago and I'm buying size 4 since I was stocked on size 3 for a while (Stocked up when Vons changed their package while I was preggo!)

Huggies deals at CVS

2009-05-13T11:16:00.000-07:00

I took advantage of the "stockupportunity! " at CVS. If I can get name brand diapers for the price of Store brand I'll get them. These happen to be cheap so yay! Plus Huggies seem to keep the pee in all night.

Huggies Snug and Dry Jumbo Pack Size 3
$12.49
$8.99 Sale
$1.5 coupon
$.75 back from caregivers market place *****
=
$6.74

Huggies Snug and Dry Size 4 Jumbo Pack (2 packs)
$12.49
$8.99 Sale
$1.5 coupon
$.75 back from caregivers market place
=
$6.74
(13.48 for 2!)

Savings total: $17.25

***** "The Caregivers Marketplace™ is the nation's first cash back program for anyone who gives, gets or needs care. You can receive cash back on eligible products that are not typically covered by insurance or Medicare – no matter where you buy them. Our program is free and your information is always kept confidential."

Click here for info on Caregives Marketplace!

My Mommy's day

2009-05-11T11:15:00.000-07:00

I would have to say I have the best Husabnd and Son ever.

Son let me sleep in an extra hour. This never has happened. He is always up at the butt crack of dawn at 6:30. But he slept and extra hour for me! Then we all got dressed and Husband gave me a very sweet card and a strawberry growing kit! Then we packed up and went to the Los Angeles Zoo. We had a blast showing Son the monkeys and gofers but he seemed more interedted in the Alpacas. It was getting hot and the zoo is very hilly so we left and went to Hungry Howies. For you that don't know, Hungry Howies has the best pizza ever. The closest one is in Gelndale. And since the zoo is right there I got my pizza. (Hungry Howies is an east coast/ midwest thing)

We went home and hung out the rest of the day. I love just spending time with my boys. They are my life.

Thanks for the best day ever.

Here are my 3 favorite Pictures!

2009-05-10T08:00:00.001-07:00

Happy Mothers Day! I love my son!

Kmart diaper deal

2009-05-09T09:07:00.001-07:00

Went to go to Ikea today, the line was freaking a mile long, no joke. In Carson, CA it went all the way past Target! So instead I ran over to Kmart in Torrance since they are doubling coupons again this week (last day is today)

Huggies Snug and Dry Size 3, 100 ct
$19.99
$2.oo coupon
$2.00 double coupon
=
$15.99

Huggies Snug and Dry Size 4, 88 ct
$19.99
$2.oo coupon
$2.00 double coupon
=
$15.99

Huggies wipes, 40 ct.
$1.99
$1.00 coupon
$1.00 double coupon
=
FREE

Johnsons baby wash, green bottle
$4.19
$1.00 coupon
$1.00 double coupon
=
$2.19

General Mills Chewy granola bars (2 boxes)
$2.49 each
30% off sale (1.75)
$1.00 off 2 coupon
$1.00 double coupon
=
$1.48 for 2

Great deals eh? The huggies were a deal since the 2$ coupon doubles, not many stores double that high. Plus I was running out of diapers.

7 Helpful SprinG cleaning tips!

2009-05-08T08:25:00.000-07:00

So I have been doing spring cleaning. wish I would have done it weeks ago as I have had my yearly yard sale already. So the rest of the junk I have found I do not need is going to goodwill this weekend. I have came up with some tips on helping you make and keep your house uncluttered and clean. After you go through all your junk you learned that money is spent on things you do not need. I found this to be my biggest problem. I spend money on dumb things. So in the past few weeks I have not bought nic nacs and dishes like normal. I do need new sheets but I need those.

Spring Cleaning rules:

#1. Do one room at a time.

#2. Make 3 piles as you go through stuff: 1. save 2. toss 3. donate This allows you to go trough stuff easy.
1. saved stuff is in a box, then you can dust and clean good before putting everything back in its place. And since you have tossed and donated more stuff you have more room for the things you love and need.
2. when you are done put all toss stuff in the OUTSIDE trash, that means it is outside and less likely to come back in.
3.The donate should go straight to your car. If you want write down everything you are donating so you can get a tax deduction (don't forget to ask at the donation center if they need to give you a form for it or not!)

#3. If you have not worn it/used it in the past year donate it, 6 months? try it on, if it does not fit donate it. Less clothes you have laying around means less laundry, you won't do tons of laundry thinking something is dirty when it is clean. This also gives you more room in your closet/dresser to put clothes away. (applies to dishes too!)

#4. Don't let clean clothes sit around, they get mistaken for dirty, with your new cleaned out closet it should be easy to find room to hand/fold your clothes and put away nicely. (applies to dishes too!)

#5. Storage is key. Find unused spaces like under the bed and in the top of the closet. They makes special bins for under the bed that seasonal items can be stored it. And use the same size boxes for the top of the closet or in the garage, Label on the outside neatly and when you need it you can find it!

#6. Find yourself still in too much junk after you cleaned and sorted and organized stuff? Get a small box or trash bin. Every time you come across something you forgot you had, decide if you really need it or not, if not put it in the bin. When it is full or at the end of the week, donate or trash the stuff!

#7. Craigslist is also handy for making some big bucks. If the item is work something put it on there. It makes take a few tries but it will get sold, but DO NOT do this with everything. If you want to sell your stuff, make a weekend of cleaning then have a garage sale the next then donate the rest of the stuff. I know here in SoCal we had a center come and pick up our left over garage sale items. Clean up was breeze.

Once your house is organized and clean upkeep should be easy. Weekly dusting and daily vacuuming & putting this in their place will do the trick. And now that it is all organized you should be able to find the stuff you need easy and save you some time hunting for it. And now you have also seem the money you have wasted on things that you never use, makes you think twice about what you buy at the store.

If you still have a problem with being a pack rat after you saw the mess you have consult a therapist asap!

2009-05-07T21:38:00.001-07:00

KFC backed out of their free meal coupon. They are putting people through so many loops to get their free meal. So not worth it. Anywho if you want to know more Athriftymom.com has the details. I would post but Ilm texting my post in tonight. Guess this saves me gas and a drink. $$$ Saving Rule #1, if you don't need it don't get it!

Wow How ignorant, another BF vs Formula post

2009-05-07T11:48:00.000-07:00

WTE POSTER: "i personally don't think bf is any cheaper if you take into consideration all the supplies and the fact that you need to eat more and really well. so you're either paying for bottles and formula or you're paying for nursing accessories and the extra food and vitamins you'll need."

ME: I'm sorry but this has been bothering me for days. The women on the boards over to WTE are really getting on my nerves. If it is not something about how tap water is the devil than it is something like this.

my reply (not posted, I don't wanna start drama)

"I'm sorry but I laughed at what you said.

BF takes no supplies! I chose to work and pump therefore I do need supplies, but there are many woman, on the boards or not, that have never pumped so no need for bottles and all that. I lurk on some boards for fun and I remember one woman never gave her son a bottle and like at 6 months started to pump just to donate BM. There for for the first 6 months it cost her nothing, and as far as I know she still EBF!! She chose to donate and probably got a pump for free that way.

And for eating more, Breastfeeding mothers need to only eat 500 calories more than a non breastfeeding mother, that is about 4 large apples. Most Americans eat over the amount of calories recommended anyways. I am eating healthy to keep my child healthy and in turn I have made myself healthier, happier , and am losing weight. I've lost all the baby weight and some and dropped 2 pant sizes!

I'm sorry you feed your child formula just so you can eat a Big Mac a day.

In addition I have special bonding time with my son. I comes to me when he needs comfort and lays with me and snuggles. He smiles at me while I feed him and hugs my chest. I was the only one that he would let hold him when he got sick and was in the ER. The emotions I feel when my son is feeding melts my heart. I am doing what "God" intended and I don't believe in "God".

My start was hard and I fought to do what was best for my son. I am so proud of him and I keeping it up this long.

I'm not sorry that I said all that."

I wish I had the balls to post that but I like the boards and do not want to start drama.

2009-05-07T11:39:00.001-07:00

Yay for blogger, now useing my mobile with it! Check it out. Http://mrssupermom.blogspot.com/

Not shopping this week!

2009-05-07T11:10:00.000-07:00

Not shopping this week is me being cheap. I read somewhere that coupon using people spend up to 76% more on stuff because they think even with a coupon they are saving. Well I thought about that and duh! why do I need 3 Ousts that we never really used? I still paid tax, and that tax is money!!!!!! So Since there is no great deals this week, like on toothpaste or shampoo I don't need to go shopping.

On the other hand I did have to get milk and make some dinner, and I wanted bean enchiladas. They are cheap and easy and my menu plans have gone out the door the last few weeks due to some unscheduled work nights and such. So I headed off to El Storo(The store in made up Spanish!)

Bean enchiladas, Green sauce version

Mexican Refried Beans, Ralphs brand
4/$5 (1.25 each)
bought 1
$1.25

Chile Verde Enchilada Sauce
$3.49
$.50 off coupon
$.50 off double coupon
$2.49
Used half the can, froze the other ($2.49/2)
$1.25

Kraft Mexican shredded cheese
$4.49
BIGI ($2.25 each!)
Used 1 package
$2.25

Taco size Tortillas, 10 ct.
$2.49
used half
$1.25

Total spent for dinner for 2 (plus one left over for lunch!) $6.00

Recipe

Ingredients:

1 can refried beans

1 (2 cup) package shredded cheese

1/2 large can Chile Verde sauce

5 tortillas taco size

Spread beans (and cheese if desired) on tortillas

roll tortillas and place in oven safe dish

Do this for all 5 tortillas

Spread Chile Verde sauce over rolls.

top with cheese.

Bake at 375 - 400 until cheese is bubbly!

My brother Russell also cooks his beans before. I'm lazy and don't.

I tried this in the crock pot, would work if you set it on low and cooked for no more than 4 hours (at 8 hours the beans were over done and the sauce was absorbed too much, I was at work or I would have turned it off!) ! But remember oven and crockpots vary in temp so time varies!

2009-05-05T09:58:00.000-07:00

Deal of the Day for Cinco De Mayo!

go to http://unthinkfc.com/ and print off your coupon for 1 free grilled chicken meal with 2 sides and a biscuit! You can print up to 4 off one computer!

I have 12! That is a bunch of lunches and a few dinners for hubs and I. YAY for free dinner!!!!!

Breast vs Bottle

2009-05-01T10:29:00.000-07:00

Breast vs Bottle

There was an argument going on on one of my beloved boards today about a woman thinking formula would be cheaper than breastfeeding.

Not trying to knock anyone down but why on earth would you think that? Even if on WIC formula probably costs more.

so I gotta do my cheap thing and compare.

Me; a full time working breastfeeding mom Vs. formula feeding mom *for one full year

Expenses for Me:
Pump in Style Advance $245.00
Breast milk storage bags 25 ct. $5.00 per month
Born Free bottles set of 4 - 9 oz $40.00
=
$285.00 one time buys + $60 (years worth of BM bags) = $345.00 year

Expenses for Formula feeding mom:
12 oz can regular Enfmil with iron formula : $15 per can * 10 per month * 12 months = $1800.00
Born free bottles 8 - 9 oz (more due to more bottles being used for feedings) $80.00
=
$1800 plus one time buy of bottles $80.00 = $1880.00 year

$345 vs $1880

savings = $1535.00
81% more money to formula feed with no assistance from WIC.

This does not include extra nipples, cleaning supplies, spare pump parts and misc formula accessories. And also does not include nursery water if a mom chooses to use it. The stuff listed is the bare minimum for each.

I'll step off my soap box now. Thanks!

2009-04-29T13:20:00.000-07:00

I hate walgreens. Not only did my RR rewards not print yesterday so i did not get my stuff. The lady at another Wags would not take more than one RR at a time. Bitch. Sorry but I even spoke to the manager and he would not do it and said it was policy. I asked why another store would and I wanted to see in that in writing. He could not produce it, he kept saying it says on the RR. I read it 3 freakibng times, he did too and it said nothing about it. So I told them to take my stuff back and they were rude and I was not going to purchase all the stuff in my basket. Dropped the basket on the floor and left, with my coupons in hand.

I go to the next walgreens about a mile away. I did 2 transactions. Still did not get my RR. I give up. RR are a fing hassle.

So am going to make 1 more stop on my home and use the last of my RR. Just to get them out of my hands, and I figured out a good deal.

Anyone havng a hard time finding the advertised I-Motions? I am going to get a rain check for those.

Nivea body wash:
Sale $4.99
- $5.00 RR
=
FREE

Bic Solei Razor
$6.99 sale
BIGI
-$2.00 coupon
- $3.00 RR
=
$1.99

Deal tonight
Bic Solei Refills 4 ct.
$6.99 Sale
BIGI
-$2.00
-$3.00 RR
=
$1.99

Walgreesn deals for the week.

2009-04-27T13:31:00.000-07:00

Gotta do this one in installments as the walgreens I went to only had 1 scrubbing bubbles, Look for updates tonight and tomorrow.

Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower Cleaner
$21.99
$13.99 Sale
-$7.00 coupon
=
$6.99
+ $3.00 Register Rewards (RR)

Nivea Body Wash 16.9 oz
$6.99
$4.99 Sale
-$1.00 coupon
=
$3.99
+ $5.00 RR

Schick Quattro for women
$9.99
$8.99 Sale
-$4.00 coupon
= $4.99
+ $3.00 RR

Bic Soleil Razor (I got 2 thinking they were 6.99 BIGI, but they were not, But I still got 2)
$6.99
$1.79 clearance
-$2.00 coupon
=
-$.21 (made me some money!)
Price for 2= $1.58

total: $17.55
with $2.92 tax: $20.47

Walgreens Advertised savings: $21.90
Coupon savings: $14.00
total savings: $35.90
64% savings

$11.00 Register Rewards

SEE UPDATES LATER!

Last trip to Kmart double coupons

2009-04-25T18:24:00.000-07:00

One last trip before double coupons were done at Kmart today.

V-8 Fusion
$3.99
$2.00 coupon
$2.00 double coupon ($1.99)
=
FREE

Dry Idea deodorant (3)
$3.49
$2.00 coupon
$2.00 double coupon (1.49)
=
FREE

Huggies 40 ct wipes
$1.99
$1.00 coupon
$1.00 double coupon (.99)
=
FREE

Scrubbing bubbles toilet gel
$3.79
$3.50 sale
coupon for free toilet gel from company
=
FREE

Total spent:

$.97 tax

Hammocks!

2009-04-23T13:58:00.000-07:00

Check out:

http://www.chokekinehammocks.com/

Nice hammocks and nice people who run this business. Sarah and Bob, 2 of my best and best friends, started this business. They are great mid-west people trying to make it in HI. They are fun loving and great people.

Shamless plug for them!!!!!!

Hang Loose everyone!!!!!!

Target savings!!!!!!!

2009-04-23T13:05:00.000-07:00

Target:

Glade soy candle 5.49
Buy 2 get free gift card
2* $5.47= $11.58
-$4.00 coupon
-$4.00 coupon
$5 gift card
Tax: $3.58
Total paid upfront: $4.19

Glade soy candle 5.49
Buy 2 get free gift card
2* $5.47= $11.58
-$4.00 coupon
-$4.00 coupon
$5 gift card
Tax: $3.58
Total paid upfront: $4.19

3rd transaction:

Baby shorts on clearnace $2.80

Axe shower gel travel size 3* $1.07=$3.21
-$1.00 coupon
-$1.00 coupon
-$1.00 coupon
= $.21

Colagte total 4.2 oz $2.39
-$.75 Target coupon
-$1.00 Manufacture coupon
= $.64

Glade soy candle 5.49
Buy 2 get free gift card
2* $5.47= $11.58
-$4.00 coupon
-$4.00 coupon
=$4.19
Plus $5 gift card

Total: $7.84
Tax: $1.29 (on 13.98, dumb tax rule)

Total: $8.52
Gift Card payment from 1st 2 transaction: $8.52
Left on GC - $1.48
Plus $5.00 GC

All 3 Transactions:
Total spent out of pocket: $8.38
Total GC left: $6.48
(spent-GC = $1.90)

Total saved from coupons: $28.75
Total saved from GC: $8.52
Total saved after all GC used and coupon: $37.27

so really after GC, since I will end up saving on another transaction in the future, I spent $1.90

I basicall got everything FREE except tax!

Walgreens was a bust!

2009-04-22T13:09:00.000-07:00

So I went to walgreens to get me some free Glade Soy candles. They would not do my coupons. but have no fear, Target is having a better deal. Where I can get some gift cards for $5 along with the coupons!!! YAY

Anywho I still had to get pedialyte since it is hot and he like to have the sippy to lug around. So BM would be just a waste of my BM since most of it dribbles down his chin. Water is fine, but this will give him a boost.

Walgreens brand pedialyte (cause I'm cheap!)
3.99 for one
2 for $7 (much better deal so I got 2!)
20% off coupon
=
$5.60 something

Plus the coupon was for earthday so:

Walgreens reuseable tote
$.79
-.79 Coupon
=
FREE

2009-04-21T14:49:00.001-07:00

oK I now know which K-Mart I need to go to, maybe they are nicer people since they work in a nicer area. Who knows but the male cashier had a good laugh when he could not get the coupons to scan and a female could. We came to think that the machine only liked women. LOL Anywho great deals I got today: (I think I am done for the week!)

V- 8 Fusion (4 large bottles)
$3.99
- $2.00 coupon
- $2.00 Double coupons ($1.99)
= FREE

Little buddies soap (4 total)
$.99
-$ 2.00 off 2 coupon
= FREE

Little Buddies Soap (4 total)
$ .99
- $1.00 coupon
= FREE

Huggies Wipes 40 ct (3 total)
$1.99
- $1.00 coupon
- $1.00 double coupon ($.99)
= FREE

Johnson body lotion
$5.49
- $2.00 coupon
- $2.00 double coupon
= $1.49

Soft soap body wash (no coupons but Hubs needed body wash and he likes this kind, I make him use a poof instead of bars so this is his one luxury item LOL)
on Sale for something I don't remember. I Don;t feel like getting the reciept.

Anywho

in all spent around 6 bucks for all that~ AMAZING!

2009-04-21T08:35:00.000-07:00

I had some trouble with my local K-Mart. Besides that the upfront manager was really rude, they would not take my internet coupons.

I called a different K-Mart and they would take them!

So here is what I got yesterday:

Huggies Wipes 40 ct. (2 packages)
$1.99
- $1 coupon
- $1 double coupon (.99)
= FREE

Kotex Liners 18 ct. (3 boxes)
$1.29
- $.75 coupon
- $.75 coupon (.54)
= FREE

Pedigree big bone
$2.99
- $1 coupon
- $1 double coupon
= $.99
(my dog thanked me last night he was very greatful and tried to bite me when I came near him)

Gerber graduates finger foods
2 @ 2. 29
-.75 coupon
-.75 double coupon
= $3.08

Mr. Clean Magic Eraser
3.29
- $.75 Coupon
- $.75 double coupon
= $1.79
(OMG I love those things!)

Total spent = 5.86 (not including tax)

I'm going to the other k-mart to get the rest of my freebes today. Wish me luck!!!! Hopefully I will get 3 more packs of wipes, some Johnsons buddies soaps and some v-8 juice. Cross your fingers!!!!!!!

2009-04-20T12:53:00.000-07:00

Rite-Aid deals of the day!

Colgate Toothpaste

$2.79
$2.49 Sale
$.75 rebate
$.75 Doubled rebate
$1.00 Coupon
=
FREE

Huggies Overnights Size 4
$12.49
$8.99
$3.00 Rebate
$1.50 coupon
=
$4.49

Free toothpaste rocks! And those are some cheap huggies!

2009-04-19T20:56:00.000-07:00

Coming tomorrow, deals at K-Mart!!!!!!

I'm all about K-mart this week. Who knew I needed 3 cans of oust?

Friday 4/17/09

2009-04-17T13:36:00.000-07:00

Well since I am starting this on a Friday and I have no clue what I have bought for the week, I'm gonna start off with today's savings.

I will say I made $60 extra dollars Thursday for doing extra work at work. Nice huh? yeah that bought me some of what I bought on Friday.

Friday

CVS

Purex Laundry soap $6.99
Purex Laundry soap $6.99
Purex Laundry soap $6.99
Purex Laundry soap $6.99

CVS sale of Buy one Get one Free (BIGI) -6.99 + -6.99 = -13.98
Coupons found from dealsavingmom.com BIGI -6.99 + -.699 = -13.98

Total saved: $27.96
Tax:$ 1.29

Total Spent: $1.29

Yup that is 4 purex laundry soaps for just tax!

Omaha Steaks (splurge for paying off my car payment which is another post)

2 (5 oz.) Filet Mignons
2 (5 oz.) Top Sirloins
4 (4 oz. approx.) Boneless Chicken Breasts
4 (4 oz.) Omaha Steaks Burgers
4 (3 oz.) Gourmet Franks
4 (5.75 oz.) Stuffed Baked Potatoes

$139.00 Coupon = $49.98 Savings of $89.02

6 (4 oz.) Omaha Steaks Burgers FREE (from same coupon)

6 (4.5 oz.) Stuffed Sole with Scallops & Crab Meat $35.99 -20% off = $19.99

8 (5.75 oz.) Stuffed Baked Potatoes $24.99

8 (4 oz.) Bratwurst $24.99

1 (18 oz.) Pub-Style Cod $22.99

BIG2 -$24.99 + -$22.99 = $-47.98

total: $270.89
savings: $175.92
total saved 65%

Total spent: $94.97

Money saving Fridays are here!

2009-04-17T13:34:00.000-07:00

Each Friday I am going to post what I have spent through the week. I'm gonna track my spending and see what I can get for close to free or free.

I hope that you can find some great deals and share with me.

Times are tough but I am all for being frugal!