Coupons...

It seems like everyone always makes a resolution to eat healthier at the beginning of the year. Well here are a few coupons to help get you started. Go to startmakingchoices.com and get $6 in coupons on select products.

Also, visit drpepper.com starting January 1st for a coupon for a free Diet Dr Pepper!

Meijer Christmas Eve Coupons

In need of any last minute gifts. Head on over to Meijer with these coupons, good on Christmas Eve from 6:00 am through 7:00 pm. Clearance prices are included, so you could possible score some really great deals! Also, you may use the same coupon as many times as you like.

Coupons include:

• take an extra 20% off all board games
• take an extra 20% off hand and power tools
• take an extra 20% off all phones including cell phones
• take an extra 20% off fashion outerwear and cold weather accessories
• take an extra 10% off digital cameras & digital camcorders
• take an extra 10% off digital picture frames

We Wish You A Merry Christmas...

Our Christmas tree was damaged during the basement flood in June. Instead of buying a new one for this year we decided to put up the 3.5 foot tree that survived the flood. Since Little Bit is very curious these days, we put the tree up on an end table and placed the pack 'n play in front of it. I have been putting presents back there too. Well...there is a gap on each side of the pack 'n play that she can squeeze through. So of course she does...and loves getting into the presents! Her favorite is pulling the tissue paper out of the gift bags. She thought it was just too cool yesterday when I moved the pack 'n play out of the way and let her sit on the fireplace by the tree and gifts.

Little Bit also likes to look at the Nativity scene we have set up in out entry way. She points to the different animals and makes their sound...cow, donkey(which she thinks is a horse) and a sheep. She also loves babies, so I always point out baby Jesus and let her look at Him.

Hope you all get to enjoy some time with your family and remember the Reason for the Season.

Meijer Santa Bucks

Meijer has issued Santa Bucks valid for 3 days only...12/21 - 12/23! These are to be used on general merchandise purchases. You may use multiple Santa Buck coupons per purchase.

o $4 off item $19.97

o $6 off item $29.97

o $8 off item $39.97

o $10 off item $49.97

o $12 off item $59.97

o $14 off item $69.97

o $16 off item $79.97

o $20 off item $99.97

If you are heading into Meijer to use your Santa Bucks, check out these food deals good through December 24th. (Prices my vary slightly based on location):

· $1.79/lb for Thorn Apple Valley Spiral Sliced Ham

· $8 off Meijer, Butterball or HoneySuckle Grade A Frozen Hen Turkeys

· $15 off Meijer, Butterball or HoneySuckle Grade A Frozen Tom Turkeys

· $2 off Meijer Vitamin C

· $3 off Meijer Kids MultiVitamins

Creative Corner...Limelight Sketch Challenge

Yeah! I WON this challenge!!! I am so excited to be receiving the Basic Grey Bittersweet paper pad! Thanks Mandy!
I am working on an 8.5 x 11 vacation album right now, so I thought I would apply the challenge to a scrapbook page. It worked great for the first page in my album! Here it is...
Recipe:
Paper ~ white cardstock, pink armadillo paper pack by the paper studio
Ink ~ chocolate chip marker
Accessories ~ green ribbon, brown chipboard letter, scallop punch, circle punch

Pampers Rewards Program

I just love Pampers diapers. I have tried many other brands and these are by far my favorite! Besides them being an excellent diaper there is another plus for using them...the Pampers Gifts to Grow program. There are codes found inside the packages of diapers and wipes. Enter the codes online at Pampers.com to accumulate points. Then you can redeem your points for various items in the rewards catalog.

Normally there is a shipping fee when you redeem your points for a reward item but through the end of December, you can get free shipping on all the rewards offered. I just redeemed some points for 2 Sesame Street books (these retail for 6.99 on amazon.com). I am working for a Starbucks gift card next!

Also, thanks to Freebies 4 Mom for posting these free point codes...
WEAPPRECIATEU08 (10 points)

WELCOME2GTG0809 (1 point)

OHAMANDAAWGTG08 (1 point)

DONTFORGETGTG08 (1 point)

WELCOMEBONUS089 (1 point)

Olay Cleanser Moneymaker

Olay is offering a new rebate. Get a $15 gift card when you buy two Olay Regenerist cleansers or moisturizers through 1/14/09. Walgreens has Olay Regenerist products on sale through Saturday, buy one get one 50% off. Mine didn't automatically ring up...the cashier actually had to know to push the 50% off button, so watch closely when you check out. Use the $5 off two Olay cleansers coupon that was in the 12/14 P&G insert. Then submit your receipt with this rebate form. You should get a $15 gift card back via mail in 6-8 weeks.
I love Olay cleansing cloths so I was excited to cash in on this deal. They were $9.99 each, but there were other cleansers that were around $7.50. I spent $10 and should get $15 back from the rebate. What a sweet treat during the holidays!

Coffee freebie!

My friend Jamie found a link for a free McCafe from McDonalds. Go to mymccafe.com, put in your zip code or other local zip codes, and get a coupon for a free specialty coffee from McDonald's. Not all McDonald's locations have the McCafe coffees yet so some may not be able to take advantage right now. You are only allowed to bring up the coupon once per computer, so print immediately after viewing the coupon.

Menu Plan Monday

It is the last full week before Christmas! Do you have all your shopping done yet?! I am all ready...all that's left is to enjoy the season and fix dinner of course! Here is what I have planned for the week.

Monday ~ fish sticks, mac & cheese

Tuesday ~ crock pot chicken and dumplings, corn, mashed potatoes

Wednesday ~ meatball subs, green beans, fruit

Thursday ~ leftovers

Friday ~ pizza, salad

Visit Org Junkie for more recipes!

Meijer at a Glance...12/14-12/20

I love it when Meijer has milk on sale!...2/$5.

Check out other Meijer deals here and here.

Creative Corner...scrap club

OK...December is half over and I am just now posting the November scrap club layout. With Thanksgiving being so late this year I am all thrown off! We really enjoyed the color scheme this month...to tell you the truth I don't think there has been a month I haven't loved!!!

Creative Corner...Christmas Cards

Here is a peak at my Christmas card for this year...

I got this great picture of Gracie on the beach during our vacation in Florida so I went with it!

Meijer at a glance...12/07-12/13

Kellogg's Cereal (8-16 oz, select varieties)... $1.88
$1/1 coup here

Aunt Millie's Homestyle Buttermilk, Cracked Wheat Bread (22 oz loaf) or Homestyle White Hot Dog or White or Wheat Hamburger Buns (8 ct)... $1.29

Barilla Pasta (12-16 oz, excludes Plus)... .79 cents

JIF Peanut Butter (18 oz all varieties)... $2.00
$1/2 coup in 11/9 RP

Hunt's Tomatoes, Sauce (14-15 oz cans)... .80 cents
$1/2 coup here

Seedless Navel Oranges (4 lb bag)... B1G1 free... $4.29/2 bags


For more deals check out your local ad here!
Also, check out Stretching a Buck for a list of deals.

Free Downloads Update...

I just saw on Slickdeals that they posted the main link to the free song giveaways on Amazon.com. Here is the link!

Free Music Downloads...

According to Slickdeals, Amazon.com is offering 25 days of free iPod compatible holiday music.

I went to Amazon to try and find a main page that would identify the free song of the day but haven't found one yet. I have stumbled across other free holiday songs though. Here is what I have found so far...

"Elf's Lament" by Barenaked Ladies with Michael Bublé
"Angels We Have Heard on High" by Six Pence None the Richer
"Last Christmas" by Leigh Nash
"Love Came Down at Christmas" by Jars of Clay
"Take a Break Guys" by Brian Setzer
Amazon Holiday Sampler....5 song album

I will post anymore that I find! Happy holiday listening!!!

Meatball Stew

*UPDATED
This is such a quick and easy recipe to throw in the crock pot.  It is such a good comfort food that I like to serve with corn bread.  If you try it out, I'd love to hear what you think!

Lately, I have been using frozen turkey meatballs instead of making my own.  This cuts down on the fat and makes this dish healthier and easier!  Also, feel free to add other veggies to adjust this to your liking.  I have added green beans and mushrooms before, which are both delicious!

Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef
1 1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper
OR
1 bag frozen meatballs

4 medium potatoes chunked
4 medium carrots chunked
1 medium onion diced
1 cup ketchup
1 cup water
3 tsp vinegar
1 tsp basil
salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
For meatballs, in bowl combine beef, 1 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper; mix well. Shape into 1 inch meatballs. Brown meatballs on medium heat in large skillet.  If you are using frozen meatballs, just skip this step. 

Place potatoes, carrots, and onion in crock pot and top with meatballs. Combine ketchup, water, vinegar, basil, and remaining salt and pepper. Pour over meatballs. Cover and cook 4-5 hours on high or 8-10 on low.

Enjoy!

Menu Plan Monday

I was able to snag a new crock pot while shopping this weekend. So this week I plan to try it out...quite a bit actually!

Monday ~ crock pot hawaiian chicken, rice, green beans

Tuesday ~ pot pies, fruit

Wednesday ~ hobo meatball stew...in the crock pot!, bread

Thursday ~ pasta, salad, bread

Friday ~ crock pot chicken and dumplings, corn, mashed potatoes

Visit Org Junkie for more recipes!

Meijer at a glance...11/30-12/06

Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! Your leftovers are probably almost gone...so it's back to the store! Here are a few deals I see at Meijer this week...

Meijer Gallon Milk... 2/$5

Kraft Shredded Cheese, Cheese Cubes, Crumbles or Sticks 6-8 oz pkg... 3/$6
(Buy 3 Kraft Cheese 6-8 oz pkg get 1 Nabisco Ritz Crackers 12-16 oz FREE!)

Aunt Millies Buttertop White or Wheat Bread 22 oz loaf... buy 1 get 2 free

General Mills Cereal 9-15.4 oz box(select varieties), Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks - Gushers, Rollups or Stickerz 5-6.6 oz... 5/$9

Kraft Bagelfuls... 5/$10
$1 printable coup

Nestle Hot Cocoa Mix 8-10 ct... .99 cents

Kelloggs Poptarts 8 ct... 3/$4
$1/2 coup 11/09 RP

Martha White Muffin Mix 7.4 oz... .79 cents
.55/2 coup 11/09 RP


For more deals check out your local ad here!

Menu Plan Monday

Hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving!

Monday ~ small group thanksgiving dinner

Tuesday ~ pasta, salad, bread

Wednesday ~ peanut butter & banana sandwiches, eggs, fruit

Thursday ~ happy thanksgiving

Friday ~ leftovers...of course!

Visit Org Junkie for more recipes!

Meijer at a glance...11/23-11/29

Thanksgiving is only a few days away. Here are a few deals I see at Meijer this week that might help with your holiday baking and meal preparation!

Sweet Potatoes... .49 cents/lb

Meijer Brown & Serve Rolls 12 ct pkg white or wheat... .88 cents

Meijer Cream Cheese 8 oz brick... .99 cents

Daisy Sour Cream 16 oz tub... 4/$5
.50 cents coup 11-16 S

McCormicks Extracts, Spices, Food Coloring or Gravy Mi... 25% off
$1/2 Mealbox cpn

Nestle Carnation Evaporated Milk 12 oz can... .99 cents
.50 cents/2 coup 11/02 RP

Domino Pure Cane Sugar 4-5 lbs... $2.29
.50 cent coup 10/12 RP

Mrs Smiths Hearty Pumpkin Pie 37 oz frozen... $1.99
$1.00/2 coup 11-09 S

For more deals check out your local ad here!

Pumpkin Cake Delight

It's time for another yummy and simple pumpkin recipe!

Ingredients:
1 (18.25 oz) box yellow cake mix
1 (15 oz) can pumpkin pie filling
1/2 cup butter, melted
cool whip

Directions:
Spread the pie filling in bottom of 9x13 pan. Sprinkle the cake mix over the filling. Pour the melted butter over the cake mix. Bake at 350 degrees for 30-40 minutes. Top with cool whip!

Creative Corner...rub-ons

I recently bought this Turquoise tin from SU through my friend Jamie. It was only $3.95 and I love the fact that it has a clear front. It works great as storage for all my loose ribbon! I used rub-ons on the front to decorate it up a bit! I put some swirls and flowers in the top left corner and the word ribbon with a flower in the bottom right.

Creative Corner...scrapbook weekend!

I sure did scrapbook the weekend away! My friend Jamie came over Friday night to craft it up with me. Then I just left my stuff out and continued to scrap Saturday and Sunday. I am trying to make some progress on getting Little Bit's book caught up. I am almost done with month 7 and she is almost 14 months...so half way isn't too bad I guess. I still have my stuff out...don't know how long that will last...but I try to steal a few moments here and there to work on it. Here is one of the layouts I completed yesterday.I also completed a 20 page photo book through Snapfish this weekend. I took advantage of the free offer from Oprah. You had to sign up for it by Friday so this deal is no longer available...sorry. There seem to be free photo books popping up right and left...so keep your eyes peeled! I have recently done ones through Shutterfly and Artscow. You are just required to pay shipping, which is usually around $7.

As the weather gets colder use it to your advantage...stay inside and get crafty!

Menu Plan Monday

Another Monday...another menu! Here's what I've got cookin' this week...

Monday ~ ribs, slaw, fries, corn, rolls

Tuesday ~ beef roast, crockpot veggies, fruit, rolls

Wednesday ~ chicken patties, mac & cheese, salad

Thursday ~ vegetable noodle soup, grilled cheese, fruit

Friday ~ eggs, biscuits, bacon, fruit

Visit Org Junkie for more recipes!

Meijer at a glance...11/16-11/22

Thanksgiving is just around the corner...so take advantage of some of the great deals at Meijer this week to prepare for the big day...and feast!

Meijer gallon milk...$2.50

General Mills Cereal - Cheerios, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Golden Grahams, Total, Wheaties, Multi Grain Cheerios or Kix---Buy any 4 General Mills Cereals listed get $6 off instantly at checkout.

Del Monte Vegetables 11-15.25 oz can...6/$3

Progresso Broth 32 oz chicken...3/$5
$1/1 coup 11/16

Pillsbury Crescent Rolls 8-13.9 oz...4/$5
.25/1 coup 11-09 and $1/2 Mealbox cpn

Pillsbury Biscuits or Rolls frozen...$2
.40/1 coup

Ragu Pasta Sauce 13.5-26.3 oz jar or pouch...3/$5
.50/2 coup 11/16 RP and $1/2 Mealbox cpn

Hellmanns Mayonnaise 30 oz jar or Easy Out 24 oz bottle...2/$6
.50/1 coup 11/16 RP and $1.50/2 Mealbox cpn

For more deals check out your local ad here!

Creative Corner...Limelight Sketch Challenge

It's another Limelight Sketch Challenge! I got this penguin at Archiver's a while back and have been wanting to use him. This challenge was the perfect opportunity. Check out the details for entering here.

Recipe:
Stamps ~ SU words & Clear Penguin stamp
Paper ~ sahara sand, pumpkin pie, a random blue, and target $1 paper
Ink ~ black & bliss blue marker
Accessories ~ orange polka dot ribbon, button, hemp, pop dot, circle punch

Pumpkin Chip Muffins

Can you believe that Thanksgiving is only 2 weeks away?! It seems to creep up faster and faster every year. One thing my DH and I look forward to this time of year are yummy pumpkin recipes! So I have decided to share some of our favorites with you. I posted Pumpkin Pie Squares several weeks ago. It is one we make over and over again! I have included the recipe for Pumpkin Chip Muffins in this post. More to come throughout the rest of the month.

Pumpkin Chip Muffins

Ingredients:
4 eggs
2 cups sugar
3 cups flour
1 16 oz can pumpkin
3/4 cup vegetable oil
2 tsp baking soda
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp salt
2 cups chocolate chips

Directions:
In a large mixing bowl beat eggs, sugar, pumpkin and oil until smooth. Combine flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon and salt; add to pumpkin mixture and mix well. Fold in chocolate chips. Fill greased or paper lined muffin tins three-fourths full.

Bake at 400 degrees for 16-20 minutes or until muffins test done. Cool in pan for 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack.

Makes about 24 standard size muffins.

Creative Corner...Recipe Binder

I have been trying to get motivated to organize my recipes for a while now. We have 3 open shelves in the kitchen where I store my recipes, magazines, cookbooks and the like. Little Bit has discovered these and loves pulling everything off, dragging them around the house and tearing some to shreds! So...that has been the motivation I needed.

I made a binder several years ago but it hasn't been kept up. I never liked the divider system I had, plus I needed more categories. I used part of the Friends & Flowers Simply Scrappin' Kit from SU. I took the colored squares, cut them in half and used these for my tabs. I had stamped the divider pages when I originally made the binder using a recipe set. I revamped them, making them work better for me. Categories I used were:

• Appetizers
• Beverages & Breakfast
• Breads
• Desserts
• Meats & Main Dishes
• Soups, Stews & Sauces
• Veggies, Salads & Sides
• Misc.

Hopefully these will cover everything!

Do you have a great system for organizing your recipes? If so, I would love to hear about it!

Menu Plan Monday

I know it's Tuesday but I didn't get any posting done yesterday. I like posting my menus because it really helps knowing what I am going to make each day. Otherwise I would be standing in front of the freezer an hour before we are supposed to eat struggling to decide what to have!

Monday ~ leftovers

Tuesday ~ cheesy chicken, corn, stuffing, rolls

Wednesday ~ tacos, chips & salsa, refried beans

Thursday ~ pork roast, glazed carrots, salad, bread

Friday ~ chicken pasta bake, salad, rolls

Visit Org Junkie for more recipes!

Yummy Meatloaf!

My DH just loves this. I made it for his birthday this week and it was great! We love having it with green beans and mashed potatoes. This is something you can make ahead and freeze. I pull it out the night before i want to serve it and let it thaw in the fridge all day.

Ingredients:
1.5 lbs ground beef
1 egg (beaten)
1/4 cup cracker crumbs
1/4 cup chopped onion
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup ketchup (plus more for topping)
1/4 cup brown sugar (plus more for topping)
salt
pepper
bacon strips

Directions:
Mix all ingredients together, except bacon, and form in pan into a loaf. Pat loaf with additional brown sugar and spread with ketchup. Lay bacon strips across top of meatloaf. Bake at 350 degrees for 50-60 minutes. Remove & let sit for a few minutes. Then place on serving plate and enjoy!

Meijer at a glance...11/09-11/15

Buy 3 General Mills cereals get a FREE gallon of milk...cereal 3/$9

Buy 3 Chex cereal get $3 off instantly at checkout...cereal 3/$8

Lean Cuisine entrees...$2.00
$1/4 coup 10/5 RP or $1/2 printable coup

Progresso soup...$1.33
$1.10 printable coup

Bisquick...$2.49
$1.00 coup 9/21 SS

Meijer spices, vanilla extract, gravy and seasoning mixes...33% off


For more deals check out your local ad here!

Creative Corner...srap club

Here is the 1st layout from October scrap club. Fall is my favorite time of year! I had so much fun getting pics for these pages...pumpkins, pumpkins and my lil pumpkin!

Remember to check out Jamie's pages over at her blog too.

Deals of the Day...Walgreens

If you are out and about...check out the Almay deal at Walgreens this week. Almay One Coat Mascara is FREE after rebate this month and this week Almay cosmetics are B1G1 FREE. So I bought 2 mascaras at 6.99 each. One rang up free, due to the weekly deal, and the other will be FAR once I submit my receipt. Plus I had 2 $1.00 off coupons....money maker deal!I also picked up 2 packages of the Ricola cough drops that were on sale for .99 cents! I just love these!!!

Freebies...

Here are a few freebies to get you through the week!

Get a free sample of Nexxus Therappe Luxurious Moisturizing Shampoo and Humectress Ultimate Moisturizing Conditioner.

Walmart has a new free sample of Huggies that includes one Huggies Supreme diaper (your choice of size 1, 3, or 5).

Another great gift pack offer from SC Johnson's Right@Home website: Ziploc Home & Holidays Gift Pack. It includes Ziploc products (bags and a container) and a bunch of coupons ($8.50 worth for Ziploc, Glade, Pledge and Drano).

Menu Plan Monday

What a beautiful weekend and start to this week. It sure doesn't feel like November! That is ok with me. My DH's birthday is this week so Thursday will be his birthday dinner! He sure loves this meatloaf...look for recipe posted later in the week!

Monday ~ breakfast foods

Tuesday ~ meatball subs, salad, chips, fruit

Wednesday ~ shrimp with alfredo pasta, salad, bread

Thursday ~ meatloaf, green beans, mashed potatoes, bread.....& maybe some dessert!

Friday ~ leftovers

Visit Org Junkie for more recipes!

Meijer at a glance...11/02-11/08

Meijer gallon milk... $2.77

Aunt Millies Healthy Goodness Potato, Fat Free Multigrain and Whole Grain Bread 20 oz loaf... .99 cents

Kelloggs Nutrigrain Bars, Special K Bars or Sweet & Salty Bars... Save $1
$1/2 cpn 09-07

Hunts Tomato Sauce 8-29 oz, Tomato Paste 6-12 oz, Tomatoes Diced, Puree, Stewed, Whole or Crushed 10-29 oz... Save 20%
.40/2 cpn 09-21

Welchs 100% Grape Juice or Grape Juice Blends 64 oz btl or 100% Apple or Grape Juice Multipacks 6 pk... 2/$5
$1/1 cpn 09-21

Betty Crocker Mashed or Specialty Potatoes 4.5-7.2 oz...$1
40/1 cpn

For more deals check out your local ad here!

Creative Corner...Boo to you!

Check out this CUTE fall/Halloween card I designed, featuring none other than...my Little Bit! I found the giraffe stamp at Jeffrey Alans craft store for $1. I snagged it up since I knew LB was dressing up as a giraffe!


Recipe:
Stamps ~ clear giraffe stamp from Jeffrey Alans, clear brackets from Michaels and random alpha stamp set
Paper ~ so saffron and DCWV fall combo stack 2
Ink ~ so saffron and close to cocoa
Accessories ~ pic of LB!

Deals of the Day...Gordmans

Do you have a Gordmans in your area? If so...run right on over! I stopped in there today because I am on a mission to find a hat and mittens for Little Bit. I had also received an email saying they were taking an additional 50% off clearance merchandise. I didn't get to look all that long because LB was ready for lunch, but I did stumble across this....

a new purse and wallet! The bag is teal corduroy with a front pocket, 2 inside pockets and a zipper compartment. It was on clearance for $7 and then 50% off....making it $3.50. The wallet is a cute little quilted zippy in brown with designs in teal, red, yellow and white. It was only $1.99 regular price! So a new purse and wallet for around $6! Score!

Go here to search for a Gordmans location near you.

How to get free bread...

...or a dozen large eggs or 1 lb of apples...really anything that is $1.00!

At Meijer this week Jello is on sale for .50 cents. If you buy 2 and use the $1.50/2 Mealbox coupon you will have an overage of .50 cents. So if you buy 4 boxes and use 2 coupons you can get a loaf of Aunt Millies Old Fashioned White or Multigrain Bread (on sale for .99 cents) for FREE!

Check out other weekly Meijer deals here.

Menu Plan Monday

I am doing 2 fish dishes this week to carry on the memory of Florida! My favorite salmon dish is one of them. If you haven't tried it yet....GO FOR IT!!!

Monday ~ honey coconut salmon, glazed carrots, diced peaches, bread

Tuesday ~ turkey & gravy, stuffing, corn, bread

Wednesday ~ marinated shrimp kabobs, ramen noodles, tomato slices, bread

Thursday ~ leftovers

Friday ~ Happy Halloween!

Visit Org Junkie for more recipes!

Meijer at a glance...10/26-11/01

Here is what looks good to me this week...

Aunt Millies Old Fashioned White or Multigrain Bread 24 oz loaf or Old Fashioned White Hot Dog or Hamburger Buns 8 ct... .99 cents¢

Red or Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Royal Gala, Braeburn, Jonagold or Fuji Apples... .99 cents/lb

Meijer Large Eggs 1 dozen carton... .99 cents

Kellogg's 12ct. Poptarts or Kellogg's Apple Jack or Froot Loops 17oz., Corn Pops 17.2 oz, Strawberry Mini Wheats 21.5 oz, Frosted Mini Wheats 24oz, Frosted Flakes 23oz, or Raisin Bran 25.5 oz....4/$10
(Buy 4 get $2 off INSTANTLY at checkout)

Kraft Jello Gelatin or Sugar Free Gelatin...5/$3
$1.50/2 Mealbox coupon

Pillsbury Toaster Strudel, Scrambles or Bagelfuls 10-11.5 oz...5/$10
.35 cent coupon 9-07 GM (cpn for Toaster Strudel only) and $1/1 cpn(bagelfuls)

Tyson Slow Roasted Dinners 17 oz...2/$6
.55 cent coupon 10-12 SS

For more deals check out your local ad here!

Free family fun!

We took Little Bit downtown to Halloween at the Market. It takes place during the normal Saturday Farmer's Market. There were kids crafts, goodie bags, costume contests...along with Curious George and the local hospital's Kangaroo mascot. Several vendors at the market also had goodies for the kiddos to stop and trick or treat at their booth. This event was sponsored by SpringfieldMoms.org.

Friday Freebies...

Free sample of Underjams Bedwetter

Free sample of Mr. Clean Magic Eraser

Free sample of Vaseline Intensive Care

Free sample of Dunkin' Donuts Coffee

Podcasts...

My DH likes listening to podcasts. He can listen to them while he's on the computer or download them to his MP3 player and listen while he drives to work. I have been intrigued by this lately and decided to see if I could find a crafty podcast! I just found this site that has a list of scrapbook videos and podcasts. Do you have a favorite podcast that you listen to? If so, I would love to know about it!

Freebies...

Another free tote bag!

Also, check out these freebies from Walmart...
Free Garnier sample
Free Folger's coffee sample
Free Carefree pad sample
Free Always Infinity sample

Meijer at a glance...10/19-10/25

Meijer gallon milk...$2.50

General Mills cereal...5/$9
Printable here AND here

Meijer potato or kettle cooked chips...3/$5
$1 Mealbox cpn

Pillsbury Frozen biscuits or rolls...$2
$.55 Printable here OR $.40 in the 10/5 GM

Aunt Millies Buttertop White or Wheat Bread 22 oz...$1.19

Marie Callenders Dinners or Large Pot Pies 12-21 oz...50% OFF
$1/3 Mealbox cpn

All laundry detergent...$3.99
$1 Small & Mighty Printable here OR $.40 on All or Surf AND $1 on 2 Small & Mighty 10/12 RP


For more deals check out your local ad here!

Menu Plan Monday

I'm back! We had an awesome time on vacation...I miss the beach already! To keep the memory of our trip alive I will be having various seafood dishes this week and next...

Monday ~ shrimp and angel hair pasta with alfredo sauce, salad, bread

Tuesday ~ fish sticks, mac & cheese, salad

Wednesday ~ pot roast, mashed potatoes, corn, bread

Thursday ~ almond coconut tilapia, rice, tomato slices, bread

Friday ~ french toast, scrambled eggs, fruit

Visit Org Junkie for more recipes!

Vacation!!!

I won't be posting much, if anything this week...cause we are on VACATION!!! If you are dying to know what is on sale at Mejier...you can check out Mommy Snacks. Later!

Hippos & pumpkins?

I just love this picture my hubby sent me. It was one of the most viewed photos on Yahoo earlier today. I bet this hippo would love my pumpkin bars!!! Caption: Fifteen year old Hippo Albert opens his mouth to catch a pumpkin fed to him in Cologne Zoo, western Germany, Thursday, October 2, 2008. (AP Photo/Roberto Pfeil)

Springfield Moms...

I am all about getting the most for my money so when there is a chance to use a coupon on something you know I am all over it! That is why I have www.springfieldmoms.org bookmarked on my laptop. Their Mom's Choice Directory has coupons for many businesses in the area. Whether you are in need of a chiropractor, hardware supplies, kids clothes or a new pair of shoes...check www.springfieldmoms.org first and you just might save some cents!

Pumpkin Pie Squares

For crust:
1 cup flour
1/2 cup quick cooking oats
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup butter

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, oats and brown sugar. Cut in the butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Press into bottom of an ungreased 9x13 pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.

For filling:
1 15 oz can pumpkin
1 12 oz can evaporate milk
3 slightly beaten eggs
3/4 cup sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp cloves
1/2 tsp ginger
1/2 tsp salt

In a large bowl combine all filling ingredients and mix well. Pour over baked crust. Bake at 350 degrees for about 35 minutes.

Cool for 1 hour and then chill 4 hours.

This is great served with whipped topping and a sprinkle of cinnamon!

Menu Plan Monday

I am sticking with an easy menu this week since we are leaving for vacation on Friday...trying to prepare meals that don't leave a bunch of leftovers.

Monday ~ pasta with pesto, salad, bread

Tuesday ~ $1 butter burgers (culver's)!

Wednesday ~ fish sticks, mac & cheese, salad

Thursday ~ french toast, scrambled eggs, fruit

Friday ~ leave for vaca!!!

Visit Org Junkie for more recipes!

Meijer at a glance...10/5-10/11

It's a 10 for $10 with 11th item free sale at Meijer this week. You can see a list of those items over at Glimpse of Sonshine. Most of the items included in this deal are Meijer brand so not many coupon matches this time. Here are a few highlights...

Meijer gallon milk...$2.50

Meijer Kettle cooked chips...3/$5
$1 Mealbox cpn

Meijer MVP sport drink...3/$2
.50 cent Mealbox cpn

Knorr Pasta sides...$1
.75 cent on 2 10-15 RP

Glad Plugins gel warmer...$1
B1G1 Free coupon 9-14 SS or printable here


For more deals check out your local ad here!

It's National Card Making Day...

...so get out your supplies and start getting crafty!!! Here is a recent card I made...totally inspired by the top note die...

Creative Corner...scrap club

I am posting the entire spread of the first layout for September scrap club since I used Little Bits' birthday pics for it. We had a small party for her, inviting over a few of her friends. They all had such a great time playing and eating cupcakes!!! I still can't believe my little baby is ONE!

Remember to check out Jamie's pages over at her blog too.

Creative Corner...Limelight Sketch Challenge

It's time for another Limelight Sketch Challenge! I had fun with this one...didn't have much in the way of Halloween themed items so I had to get creative. Here is what I came up with...

Check out the details on how to enter this challenge here.

Recipe:
Stamps ~ SU's Little Layers II and Hero Arts Happy Birthday stamp
Paper ~ ivory, pumpkin pie, old olive, DCWV fall combo stack 2
Ink ~ pumpkin pie, old olive, & chocolate chip markers
Accessories ~ foam brackets, felt rickrack, American Crafts glitter marker, pop dots, scallop punch, circle cutter

Deals of the Day...Kmart

My friend Jamie and I met up for some bargain shopping this morning. We had heard Kmart was offering double coupons this week so we decided to check it out. Our store wasn't officially participating but they would honor it for us if we checked out through customer service. I was able to find a few good deals...

Kotex: $1.29 -$1 - $1 = FREE plus .71 cent overage

Dove Shampoo: $3.99 - $2 - $2 = .01 cent overage

Sunsilk styling product: $3.00 - $1.50 - $1.59 = FREE

Olay cleansing cloths: $5.39 - $1 - $1 = $3.39

Cut-rite wax paper: $1.69 - .50 - .50 = .69 cents

M&M's (2 bags): $4.00($2x2) - .50 -.50 = $3.00

I spent a total of $6.36 for the above items! With no coupons it would have cost me...$19.36...yeah for double coupons!!!

Freebies...

The weather is getting cooler but you know what that means...cold and flu season is just around the corner. Here are a couple samples you might want to request that could help you battle those winter colds!

Free sample of Theraflu

Free sample of Emergen-C

Free sample of Airborne

Creative Corner...Target $1 section

New scrapbooking items in the $1 section at Target!!! When I was in there today I couldn't help but browse the $1 deals! The themes I saw were fall, Halloween, jewel tones, and sports. You can get brads, stickers, paper, felt shapes, ribbon and much more...all to coordinate in each theme. This is just a small sampling of what they have...

Deals of the Day...Target

I made a trip to Target today because I had some coupons expiring that I wanted to use. Plus I had some Target coupons (got them in the mail) that paired nicely with some of those coupons. If I had used no coupons I would have spent $26.10 but instead I only paid....$8.10!!!

If you still have Electrasol coupons I don't think they expire until 10/4 so you could still score this deal...2.79-2.25 coup = .54 cents for 20 dishwasher tabs!

Another hippo card!

My friend Jamie made this adorable hippo card for Little Bit for her birthday....don't you just love that little hippo! I also love this new Bella Rose designer paper from Stampin' Up!

Menu Plan Monday

Yeah!...it is supposed to be cool all this week! Is fall weather finally here to stay?! Anyway, here is my menu for the week...

Monday ~ turkey, dressing, corn, bread

Tuesday ~ steak, green beans, cheesy potatoes, bread

Wednesday ~ bbq sandwiches, chips, carrot sticks

Thursday ~ pasta, salad, bread

Friday ~ ...leftovers

Visit Org Junkie for more recipes!

Meijer at a glance...9/28-10/4

Here are a few deals you can find at Meijer this week. It looks like this is the week to stock up bread, peanut butter, and ice cream!!! Let me know what other great bargains you come across.

Meijer gallon milk...$2.77

Aunt Millies white or multigrain bread...99 cents
.35 cent coupon 8-10 RP...hurry this expires 9/30

Chi Chis Salsa 16 oz...4/$5
$1/2 Mealbox cpn

Ben & Jerry's Ice Cream pints...2/$6
$1/2 Mealbox cpn

Breyers, Good Humor Novelties,6-30 ct, Klondike 6-8 ct, or Popsicle and Fudgsicle 8-30 ct...2/$6
$1/1 Mealbox cpn

Hot Pockets, Lean Pockets, Croissant, Subs, Calzones, Twisted Stix or Pocket Ultimates or Paninis...5/$10
.50 cent coupon 9-28 RP and $1/5 Mealbox cpn

Skippy Peanut Butter 15-16.3 oz jar...2/$4
(Buy 2 Skippy Peanut Butter 15-16.3 oz jar and get Meijer White Bread 22 oz loaf FREE!)
.40 cent coupon 8-17 RP and $1/2 Mealbox cpn

Guess who's ONE!

Happy Birthday Little Bit!!! We celebrated her 1st birthday this weekend. She had a blast playing with her little friends and is enjoying all her gifts!

This year has just flown by...I can't believe my baby is now a toddler! We are enjoying every second with her!

Menu Plan Monday

Today is the first day of fall! I am looking forward to getting some pumpkins and breaking out the fall decor. Now I just wish the weather would get cool and stay that way!

Monday ~ waffles, scrambled eggs, fruit

Tuesday ~ grilled cheese & roast beef sandwich, broccoli cheese soup, carrot sticks

Wednesday ~ pot roast, mashed potatoes, corn, bread

Thursday ~ out to dinner...and free ice cream from Cold Stone!

Friday ~ steak, green beans, cheesy potatoes, bread

Visit Org Junkie for more recipes!

Freebies!

Sign up here for your free Fiber One Honey Nut Clusters cereal sample and Oats and Honey Bar plus $3 in coupons.

Free Aveeno sample and coupon

Decorate your Diaper Genie for free. The decals are free while supplies last, so be sure to order yours today!

Meijer at a glance...9/21-9/27

Check out the new coupons on MealBox. A few of them pair nicely with some sales this week at Meijer. Here is what I saw at first glance...

Tropicana orange juice, 89 oz...3.99
($1.00 off coupon on MealBox)

Taco Bell dinner kits...25% off
($1.00 off 2 coupon on MealBox)

Carapelli olive oil...33% off
($1.00 off coupon on MealBox)

Rice-a-Roni or Pasta Roni...5/$5
($1.00 off 5 coupon on MealBox)

Kahiki Entrees or Appetizers...5/$5
($1.00 off 2 coupon on MealBox)

Joy of Cooking...25% off
($1.00 off coupon on MealBox)

Love this card!

As you all know...Little Bit's 1st birthday is right around the corner. My friend Jennifer sent her a card this week and it is adorable!!! She followed suit with our hippo theme and it turned out great! I didn't know there was hippo paper out there...I have to get me some!

Creative Corner...Limelight Sketch Challenge

OK...I don't think I have ever entered a sketch challenge before but I have always thought it would be fun! So when I saw my friend Jennifer's post about this Limelight Challenge I decided to go for it!...(plus I needed to make an anniversary card anyway!) I used a chipboard flower for my main focus. I love using chipboard but don't always like covering them with paper. The Bic Mark It's work great for coloring them to match your design!

Check out the details on how to enter this challenge here.

Recipe:
Stamps ~ SU"s Teeny Tinies
Paper ~ white, old olive, DCWV green paisley
Ink ~ old olive & taken with teal markers
Accessories ~ Target $1 ribbon, chipboard flower, Bic Mark It in hot aqua

Freebies!

Check out these free samples I came across this morning...

Free sample of Fruit & Granola from Bare Naked

Free sample of Sundance Organic Life Tea

Free sample of Greenies dog treats

Free sample of GoodNites

Free sample of Infant Formula

Another free bag...

Register for Nature's Bounty Healthy Rewards and you will receive a free reusable tote bag. It says the bag comes with a $1 coupon inside!

Menu Plan Monday

I just love when the weather turns colder and you get to wear jeans and sweatshirts! I think it is time for some chili this week! The quick & hearty soup from last week was great! Even Little Bit gobbled it up!!!

Monday ~ cheese tortellini, salad, fresh bread

Tuesday ~ scrambled eggs, cinnamon bread, fruit

Wednesday ~ meatball subs, green beans, fruit

Thursday ~ chicken, corn on the cob, tomato slices, bread

Friday ~ chili, peanut butter sandwiches, apple slices

Visit Org Junkie for more recipes!

Meijer at a glance...9/14-9/20

I really like shopping at Meijer. They have great sales and I enjoy seeing what coupons I can pair with them to get a deal! As I was browsing the Meijer ad, I thought I would pass on a few deals that I will likely take advantage of this week...

• Meijer 1 gallon milk...$2.77

• Kellogg's cereal and cereal bars...5/$10

when you buy 5 select products you get up to $3 off Meijer gallon milk
($1 off 2 coups out there from the recent Kellogg's rebate flier, also Smart Start and Blueberry Mini Wheats $1 coups in recent All You magazines)

• Maxwell House or Seattle's Best ground coffee...$5.19

when you buy 1 of these you get any Post cereal free
($2 off Seattle's best meijer coupon from MealBox and $1 off Seattle's best manf.)

• Powerade....69 cents

(MONEYMAKER....75 cent coupon from All You)

• All detergent...2/$7

($1.00 coupon from All You or printable $1.00 here)

This is just after a quick glance at the ad...let me know if you come across any other great deals!

Mail Call...

This sure was a great day for the mail! Look what I got...
Walmart is still the best place I have found for free samples. Here are a couple new ones...

Free sample of Gain with Baking Soda

Free sample of Huggies diapers

Check out all the Walmart samples available here.

Me Time!

As I mentioned in my menu plan post I was sick last week. I had a sore throat, then migraine and now my sinuses are draining! Through it all I have had no energy...and still trying to keep up with an 11 1/2 month old! So today I tried something I don't ever do...had a cup of hot tea. I am not a big fan of tea...definitely something you have to acquire a taste for...but it wasn't so bad and made me feel a little better. I sat down during Little Bits nap time with my cup of tea and new Creating Keepsakes magazine and had a few minutes to rejuvenate myself!

Deals of the Day...Walgreens

I had a register reward for $9 that I got from the John Frieda deal 2 weeks ago that I needed to use. So I headed to Walgreens to snag a few more FAR (free after rebate!) deals. Plus I did the Crest Pro-Health mouthwash...$4.49 with $4.49 RR back (less .75 cent coupon) and Visine...$4.99 (less $2 Easy Saver coupon and $3 manufacturer coupon).
Check out this weeks Walgreens deals here.

Free book offers...

Kellogg’s is currently running a promotion called United Through Reading and they’re giving away a free Simon & Schuster children’s book when you mail in two tokens from specially marked packages of cookies (Chips Deluxe & Pecan Sandies), cereal (Frosted Flakes, Froot Loops, Raisin Bran Crunch & Frosted Mini Wheats), Nutri-Grain bars and Pop Tarts available at Target and Military Commissaries. Just complete and mail in this official order form by 9/30/09.

Get a free Blue’s Clues book called Healthy Snacks with Blue! when you buy any Sun-Maid Mini Snack Raisin product. Just fill out the mail-in order form and send in the UPC plus the dated cash register receipt for your purchase by 9/30/09.

Deals of the Day...CVS

I had ECBs (Extra Care Bucks) expiring this week so I headed in to CVS to see how best to "roll them over". I bought 1 of each of the following, plus a big ball for .17 cents (summer clearance items 75% OFF):

Buy 1 L’Oreal Age Perfect, Revitalift or Skin Genesis at $5.99, Get $5.99 ECBs

Buy 1 Revlon Nail Color at $3.99 (Sun & Mon only), Get $3 ECBs

Buy 1 Right Guard Sport, Xtreme, Soft & Dri or Dry Idea: $2.99, get $2 ECBs

I used a $1 L'Oreal coupon, $1 Right Guard coupon and $2/$10 CVS coupon*. I paid with $8.79 in ECBs and .42 cents on a giftcard...got back $10.99 ECBs! If I would have had a Revlon coup, I could have saved even more!

For more CVS deals this week go here.

*The $2/$10 is from this issue of Richmond Parents magazine....coupon is on page 30.

Menu Plan Monday

I was sick last week so my menu was altered a bit...hubby picked up take out one night...so the soup got bumped to this week. Soup and chili will definitely start making the menu now since cooler weather is coming in! The menu is short because I will be away a couple of days this week.

Monday ~ quick & heart soup, fruit, bread

Tuesday ~ waffles, scrambled eggs, bacon, fruit

Wednesday ~ soup leftovers, fruit, bread


Visit Org Junkie for more recipes!

Deals of the Day...CVS & Target

Finally! A moneymaker at CVS this week. I have gone so long with just having to spend my ECBs on stuff so that don't expire, not always making back what I put in. I haven't been impressed with too many of their deals lately. This week I lucked out...they actually had what I went in for and had good coupons. I got 2 Covergirl lip colors (only ECBs back on 1...$5.99, but had a B1G1 coup and $1 off) and Colgate toothpaste (got $2 ECBs and had $1.50 coup). I also used a $2/$10 coup. So, I payed with $4 ECBs and .74 cents.....got back $7.99 ECBs!!!

If you haven't done the Kellogg's $10 rebate yet this is the week to cash in...Target has a deal where if you buy 4 of certain items you get a $5 gift card. All the items in the deal are eligible for the Kellogg's rebate. I only had one set of coupons so I did the best I could with those. I got the 10 items pictured to qualify for the rebate...after sale, coupons, gift cards and rebate I will have made $5.00!

What great deals have you found this week?

Freebies...

Get a free granola bar sample from Quaker Simple Harvest. They will surprise you with a sample of one of their three flavors: dark chocolate chunk (my favorite), honey roasted nut, or cinnamon brown sugar with apples and cranberries. I have noticed $1.00 off peelies on boxes at several stores.

Free Fisher-Price GeoTrax DVD

Free sample of The Healing Formula

Free sample of John Frieda Luxurious Volume

Creative Corner...1st bday invite

In keeping with the hippo theme, of course the invitations would have a hippo on them! My good friend Jamie loaned me this stamp. Inside the card all the party info is listed.

Happy Almost Birthday...

We had Little Bits 1st birthday party with family back home over the weekend. She will be one at the end of the month but Labor Day weekend was a good time to get everyone together to celebrate. She was a little timid around all the people but really had fun and got some great stuff!

Since we've been home, she has been having a blast playing with all her new stuff. I am anxious for fall and winter so she can try out some of her new clothes as well! You know my love of hippos...and Little Bits too, of course! So I had to work them into the party. I found plates with a hippo, giraffe, elephant, and lion...and designed everything around that. The bakery did an awesome job of making her a hippo finger cake! Here is a picture of her...not quite sure what to do with her finger cake! She did finally get into the icing a bit but Daddy had to help her get a few bites of cake. Yummo!

Menu Plan Monday

Even though it's Tuesday I will still post my menu...still have to cook, right?!

Monday ~ hamburgers, green beans, watermelon

Tuesday ~ pasta, salad, bread

Wednesday ~ almond coconut tilapia, corn on the cob, sauteed zucchini, bread

Thursday ~ quick & heart soup, fruit, bread

Friday ~ leftovers or takeout

Visit Org Junkie for more recipes!

Deals of the Day...Walgreens

If you plan on getting into Walgreens today or tomorrow you might want to print out this $10/$40 coupon good Fri. and Sat. only. I went today with high hopes, since this is an overlap day with the Aug. & Sept. Easy Saver catalogs...but several things didn't pan out they way I'd hoped. So I didn't use the coupon but still made out pretty good. I spent $18.26 but will get back $17.78 after rebates and register rewards...so really only paid .48 cents!!! The John Freida was really a great deal...It was on sale B1G1 50% OFF plus register rewards. The 2 products ring up as bought items, then the 50% off rings up on a separate line so the computer thinks you bought 3 things...producing $9 RR instead of $5!

Go here for the September Free After Rebate deals.

Aveeno tote bag

I love Aveeno products...especially the baby line! "Little bit" has sensitive skin so I use the Aveeno wash and lotion on her. Also, the sunscreen is great! If you have purchased any Aveeno products lately go here to get a free tote bag from Aveeno. All you need to do is fill in your information and enter two UPC codes from Aveeno products. It does say...while supplies last...so you better act fast.

Cosmo also has a promotion for an Aveeno tote. You must purchase any 2 Aveeno products and send in your original receipt by September 30, 2008. Find more details here.

Also, if you love Aveeno like I do...sign up here to get coupons. You can print one as soon as you sign up and then they send you more periodically. I just got one today for $2.00 off any Aveeno product!

Creative Corner...more taggies & a card too!

I was craftin' up a storm last night! I made 3 more taggie blankets. One was a special order from a friend, another is a birthday gift for "little bits" cousin. They were born on the same day...how cool is that!
I also made a card. I have been inspired by the new Stampin' Up catalog and all the goodies in it. I don't have any of them yet so I am working with what I've got for now. I haven't made cards in awhile so it was nice to get those creative juices flowing again. I am slowly but surely restocking my stash!

Creative Corner...srap club

July Scrap Club 1st page of layout 1

August Scrap Club 1st page of layout 1

If you want to join in scrap club, it's month-by-month so it's never too late to jump in! Participants receive all contents needed to put together one or two layouts with that month's theme, all cutting and stamping done for you! And you assemble at home on your own time. What a great way to keep up with your scrapbooking this year! Stop by Jamie's Stamping Cafe for pics of her layouts, more information on the club or to sign up.

Giveaways...

Check out this Robeez giveaway over at The Redheaded Lefty! Enter for your chance to win one of 2 darling pairs!!!

Look at this beautiful Nicole Original!! Go HERE to see how you can WIN it!!

Thrifty and Chic Mom is giving away two necklaces and bracelets of Smart Mom Jewelry. (This stuff is really cool!). You've got all week to enter! Go check it out HERE

Jenn at the Coupon Coup is giving away a Coupon Binder and an uncut August All You so that you can clip away to your heart's content!
Just go HERE

Menu Plan Monday

Last weeks menu was great but we still have a few leftovers! Plus a few nights we will be out late so her comes another short menu...

Monday ~ pork fajitas, rice, corn on the cob

Tuesday ~ pot pies, sauteed zucchini, grapes

Wednesday ~ almond coconut tilapia, salad, bread, grapes

Thursday ~ leftovers

Friday ~ dinner out

Visit Org Junkie for more recipes!