Friday, October 11, 2013

Frugal Friday: Rock Bottom CENTSable Beauty Prices



The a few weeks ago (Rock Bottom Prices Part One and Part Two), we’ve talked about rock bottom sales on all your grocery store items. So, this CENTSable Beauty post is going to follow along the same lines. We’re going to talk about some rock bottom prices for makeup, and in some cases why rock bottom may not be the best choice.

My first tip on finding a good sale on a product you’ve never tired is to wait until it’s at least 50% off its regular price. That being said, if you find a “holy grail” item, I completely understand paying a little more for it. Just remember, when it’s on sale and you have a coupon, stock up!

Primer:
I’m still looking for a favorite drugstore primer, but my current “best” is Rimmel Fix and Perfect ($7.29). Because I’m still exploring brands, I have been using the strategy above, and waiting until a brand is at least 50% off.

Foundation:
I have two favorite foundation at the moment, and they’re extremely far away in price. Revlon Photoready ($13.99) and Rimmel Lasting Finish 25 Hour Foundation ($7.49). Rimmel has more coverage, although Revlon seems to wear better throughout the day. What would make the difference? Revlon’s sales tend to be better (Rimmel’s sales tend to stick around 30% off) and the coupon tend to be higher value. Combine this with the fact that you get more product in the container, Revlon tend to win this battle, even though it has a higher regular shelf price.  If you like a slightly lighter foundation, but still love the coverage, Angela's favorite is the Mayballine's FitMe Stick Foundation.  Great for covering dark spots without feeling heavy like some of the full coverage foundations listed above.

Eyeshadow:
I have shadows from nearly every drugstore brand, and most of the time they are relatively the same in quality. With shadows, because I tend to OVER-purchase, I limit myself to only buying shadow if the sale is 75% or better. I also prefer shadows that are sold in a pallet versus single shadows, although that’s just a personal preference. Just in case you’re curious, my favorite pallet is Almay Intense i-color Eyeshadow Powder, Bold Nudes for Blues 412. I wear it almost daily to work, although I get much more colorful during the weekends.

Blush/Highlighter/Concealer:
I’m cramming these three in the same category for one reason: a lot of people don’t see them as necessities. Blush? Most people I know have 1 or 2 colors of blush and wear the same product for years before they purchase another one. Concealer? This one I think a lot of people use, but it’s one of those items that deserve a little more money thrown at it. A cheap concealer, or just a concealer that doesn’t work with your skin type, can make you look older and can actually emphasize the areas you’re trying to conceal. My advice? Find a concealer that works for you and don’t worry about the price. Look for sales and coupons, but don’t feel bad about buying it full price if necessary. Highlight? I sometimes feel like I’m the only person that uses this. If you do, I use Physicians Formula and got it free at CVS over a year ago. I use it every weekend and I haven’t even made a dent. It’ll last for a lifetime.

Eyeliner:
The cheapest brand I’ve found that isn’t’ too dry, is NYC. Liquid pen is $3.69 and pencil is $2.39. They often have sales that can be combined with coupons. Another good liner is the Physicians Formula Smokey Eye Trios. With sale and coupon combinations, we can get it up to 80% off at times, and the black eyeliner is the creamiest I’ve ever tried.

Mascara:
This is another product that I would pay a little more for a brand I liked. My current favorites are Maybelline’s The Rocket ($7.49) and Rimmel’s Volume Scandaleyes ($6.99). I’ve recently gotten Mililani, Ulta brand, and Revlon for under $5, but I would have rather paid more for a product that I enjoyed.

Lipstick:
I treat lipstick and lipgloss like I treat eyeshadow. I have a little from every brand, and I either love it or hate it. However, just like eyeshadow, I limit myself to not buying more lip products until it’s at least 75% off. In case you’re interested, my favorite gloss is Revlon Super Lustrious Lipgloss and my favorite lipstick is Fergie Wet n’ Wild Lipsticks (MUST wear lipliner... the "bleed" like crazy) and Mayballine SuperStay. My LEAST favorite is Revlon ColorStay Suede lipstick (drying and starts flaking!).

Leave me some comments below about your favorite makeup products! Any you think I should try next?

Friday, October 4, 2013

Frugal Friday: It's Flue Season!



After my family doctor mentioned that they would not be ordering as many of the flu vaccine because so many of the pharmacies are now offering them; I decided to start looking at who is doing flu shots, and where I can find the best price. Who is offering additional benefits to getting it done there?

Tom Thumb offers 10% off coupon towards groceries. Also, if you transfer a prescription, you earn a $25 off $50 groceries. Brookshire’s locations are offering $25 flu shots plus you earn 100 Bonus Your Points. If you have pharmacy rewards at Target, the flu shot counts towards your reward.

CVS only offers vaccines at their Minute Clinic, so you will need to find out which locations have Minute Clinic. I believe that all Walgreen’s are now offering vaccines. It does not appear that Wal-Mart offers vaccines at the DFW locations. Select Target locations offer the flu shots.

Only CVS and Walgreen’s listed the prices for their vaccines. They offer more than just the flu shot. Here is the list of the prices. Remember there are now different types of vaccines available.

Use this list as a reference for flu shots if you do not have insurance.

AGE                SHOT TYPE                  WALGREENS  CVS
ages 2–49         Flu (FluMist Intranasal)         $39.99        n/a
ages 65+          Flu (Fluzone High-Dose)        $54.99        $49.99
ages 2+            Flu (Influenza)                      $31.99        $31.99


Hopefully this will help you in finding the best place for you and stay healthy this winter!

Friday, September 27, 2013

Frugal Friday: Homework Help, When Parents CAN'T Help


So, it’s the end of September. School has been in full swing for over a month. By now, you've seen those progress reports. You've started getting the questions from your kids. Those questions that make you feel like you are the dumbest adult on the face of the earth. I mean seriously, how do I not understand my kid’s math? Never fear. There are free online options to help you.

Khan Academy is my favorite. The founder of Khan Academy started this as a helpful uncle trying to help his nieces in another state. He recorded tutorials to help the girls. Others began to find them and use them, and the rest is history. I've used it for my family. It has really helped to make sense of high school math and science. I searched for other free tutorial sites. I have to say, they are not easy to find. I found Learn To Be, which allows you to request an online tutor. This could be good if you just need explanation and might need to ask follow up questions.

I was disappointed to see so many only offer “free trials.” I wanted to be able to give you a list of free homework helper sites. Once you have a subject you are struggling to find the correct answer, you will have better luck getting a site that can help you.

You will love Khan Academy. It’s free, no strings, no gimmicks. My kids school has issued iPads and several of the teachers are using Khan Academy in the classroom. Khan offers special sections for teachers to use. It’s all about being frugal. You shouldn’t have to pay for tutorials when there is at least one exceptional tutorial site available. Check it out, let me know what you think!

Friday, September 20, 2013

Frugal Friday: Rock Bottom Prices Part 2



Last week, we talked about rock bottom prices on our most common food products. This week, we’re going to talk about some non-food items! The great thing about some of these products is one item could last your family for weeks, so it’s not as much of a necessity to stock up before another sale comes along. This makes getting bottom dollar for every day products that much easier!

Here are some examples of good sales on personal items:
  • Shampoo/Conditioner: Under $1 for lower quality brands (VO5 or Suave) and $2-$2.50 for higher quality brands (Herbal Essence or Aussie)
  • Body Wash: $3
  • Bar Soap: $1 for 3 pack
  • Deodorant: $2
  • Toothpaste: $1
  • Toothbrush: $1 for single pack, $2 for multipacks
  • Floss: $1
  • Mouthwash: $1.50-$2
  • Toilet Paper: $.20 per roll
  • Paper Towels: $.25 per roll
  • Razors $5 for handles
  • Shaving Cream: $1
  • Shaving Gel: $1.50 
Most of your makeup is going to vary by brand, so I try to make sure it’s at least 50% off and I have a coupon before I buy something. This strategy also goes for specially soaps and beauty serums (think face cleanser, hair masks or moose). It needs to be at least 50% off of its regular price.

Prices are always subject to change, but this list is a good starting point. Of course, coupons always make that price a little better!

Friday, September 13, 2013

Frugal Friday: What's Our Rock Bottom Price



In a recent post (read here), I explained how you need to start pricing the items you would be on a regular basis. I always say that a sale isn't always the best price. Cereal is always on sale, but that doesn't make it worth the price. So I've compiled a list of what I consider the maximum price I would pay for items.

GROCERY ITEMS
  • Beef: Hamburger meat - $3 or less, other beef or steak $5 or less (I don’t buy a lot)
  • Beverage: soda $1 – 2 ltr, case $5, fruit juice $2, coffee $6 (but that’s because I am brand specific) tea 24 count tea bags $1
  • Breakfast: hot cereal $1, cold cereal $2, breakfast bars $2
  • Butter 1 lb. $3
  • Canned foods $1
  • Chicken: Never pay more than $2 a pound. And often, you can find it under a $1. 
  • Dairy: Eggs $1, milk $2 (both can be purchased at Aldi at this price or less) cheese $3
  • Deli: lunch meat $3, bacon $4, sausage $3, hot dogs $1
  • Dry pasta $1
  • Frozen dinners (single serve) $2 for larger size $1 for smaller size
  • Frozen pizza $4
  • Frozen veggies $1
  • Jarred pasta sauce $1.50
  • Produce: In general I prefer to stay under $1.50 per pound. By buying the fresh produce that is on sale, you can generally keep it under this price. 
  • Rice $1 per pound
  • Seafood: Shrimp - $6 or less, Tilapia (frozen) $3 or less. I don’t buy a lot of other seafood products. But I've seen lobster tails for $6. 
This list isn't perfect. And you will find prices change all the time. But hopefully as you start your frugal living journey, this list will help guide to towards saving.

Friday, August 30, 2013

Frugal Friday! How To Shop At Target





My new favorite store for groceries is Target. If you have a Super Target nearby, check out their prices on groceries. Because my Target isn't as close as other grocery stores, I didn't really pay attention to the grocery items. I would go in for clothes, personal items, etc. Especially when they offer gift cards.

Recently, I really started looking at their grocery prices, what coupons they offered, what cartwheel is available and is there a gift card. I was surprised to discover that their prices are better than the grocery stores (in most cases). Often when they have a sale, they offer a Target coupon and a Cartwheel to combine with it. I was so surprised to see how much I could save on produce, meats, frozen foods, and pet items.

Target offers a variety of ways to save. 
  • Printable coupons at Target.com 
  • Mobile coupons at Target.com or their mobile app 
  • Cartwheel mobile app 
  • Text coupons. 827-438
I love that I can use Target coupons and cartwheel on Target and manufacturer brand items.

Here’s how it works: 
     Find an item on sale 
     They will deduct the Target coupon 
     Next they will deduct the percentage of savings from Cartwheel 
     Finally, they deduct the manufacturer coupon

Here’s an example: 
Market Pantry frozen chicken. $6.99 for 2.50 lb bag. 
Printable coupon for $1.50 off two Market Pantry frozen chicken products 
5% off of Market Pantry frozen chicken via Cartwheel 
2 @ $6.99 = 13.98 - $1.50 = $12.48 - .62 cents (5% Cartwheel) = $11.86 or $2.37 per pound.

Also Target will price match other stores. You will need to have the ad, using a phone to show the ad won’t work.

Friday, August 23, 2013

Frugal Friday! How To Begin Couponing and Savings at the Grocery Store!



Step ONE: Pick a few stores that are close to you. Start following their ads each week. They should have a sales cycle of around eight weeks.

Mine is Aldi, Albertson’s, and Target (sometimes Walmart and Kroger)

Step TWO: Make a list of the items you like to buy on a regular basis

I always look for deals on hamburger meat, chicken, and steaks. I LOVE pasta. I like to have Wolf brand chili, lunch meat, and lots and lots of cheese. I keep yogurt and frozen dinners for my husbands lunch.

The condiments that I usually try and find are any brand of mayo, and Heitz ketchup

Step THREE: Start taking the time to pay attention to the prices of the things you like to buy all of the time.

Things that I like to keep under a dollar
  • Pasta
  • Soups
  • Chili
  • Yogurts
  • Eggs
  • Frozen veggies
  • Fresh produce
  • Things that I like to keep under two dollars
  • Breakfast cereal
  • Milk
  • Chicken
  • Frozen dinners
  • Beef, I try to keep it under $3

I like shopping at Albertson’s because they double and triple coupons (triple up to .35, double up to .50), Aldi because their prices on eggs, milk, and cheese are usually lower without coupons. Target because their sale prices are very competitive and they usually have Target coupons and cartwheel deals that increase the savings.

Once a grocery store ad comes out, look at the items you prefer to buy. Is it the best price? Cereal is on sale all the time. But it is only under $2 every couple of months. So once you know if the item the best price you’ll see for a couple of months, add it to your list. If it is a manufacturer item (ie Pillsbury or Kraft) and not store brand, use an online coupon database to see if there is a coupon.
Couponmom.com
Survivingthestores.com

Take your list, and the coupons, and go shopping!!

Make your weekly menus based on the items that are on sale. Maybe you normally buy frozen chicken breast. But if the fresh chicken breast are sale cheaper, go with fresh. But if they have frozen on sale, and there is a coupon, buy the frozen. You have to ask yourself, which gives me the best overall savings.

Plan the menus based on meats, produce, and other items on sale.

When you do see that it’s a good price, and if there is a coupon, buy enough to last for two months. (if you would normally buy a box a pasta per week, buy 8 of them to last you until they go on sale again)

Plan your other items the same way. You may have to no longer be brand exclusive. I no longer buy Tide because its usually not a good deal. But I am happy to switch around other brands. For those items that I have to buy a particular brand, (dog foods, coffee, etc) I try and stock up more.

Because certain items like bread, milk, eggs are not shelf stable, I check to see who has the best price. Because I’ve check a few different locations that are close to home, its usually not a big deal to go to that store for that item. Some weeks, all I need to do is make the quick trip to Aldi to get my basics because I have a stock pile of everything else I need.

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

CENTSable Beauty: Are Beauty Subscription Boxes Worth It?


Two months ago, I talked myself into subscribing to a beauty box.

A beauty subscription box is a service that charges us a monthly fee for a random bag of beauty items.  There are several out there, all ranging from $10 a month to $50 a month and all with their different pros and cons.  After doing some research on the $10 a month subscriptions (specifically Ipsy Bag and Birch Box), Ipsy one out.

My reasons for this were that although they both had "high end" brands, Ipsy tended to also include either newer/unknown brands (i.e. cheaper) which led to bigger samples or full size samples in the bag.  Birch Box did always have the same amount of items as Ipsy, but they tended to have smaller samples because they were well known and expensive brands.

My first bag came in the mail in July.



The items included were:
Coola Moisturizer with SPF 20
Big Sexy Hair Weather Proof Humidity Resistant Spray
Derma E Microdermabrasion Scrub
BH Cosmetics California Collection Eyeshadow Sample
POP Beauty Pouty Pop Crayon

I really enjoyed the July bag.  I took the hairspray on vacation with me and have already used it up, and the full size lipstick sample was a great product (although, I wish I got a different color).  I haven't had a chance to try the moisturizer and scrub yet, but I've heard good reviews.  None of the samples were too small and will last me a good while.  Plus, the little pink bag in the background was pretty cute.

Last week, I got my second bag!



The items included:
Urban Decay Revolution Lipstick
Pixi Beauty Lash Booster Mascara in Blackest Black
MicaBeauty Eye Shadow in Bronze
Michael Todd Jojoba Charcoal Gentle Exfoliating Facial Scrub
Chella Dazzling Dark Brown Eyebrow Color Pencil

I was even more excited about this bag!  First, I love the purple bag in the background that the products came in.  Second, the eye-pigment in Bronze was beautiful.  I've been wearing it to work every day for the last week.  I've tried Pixi mascara before and like it, so I was happy to get another decent sized sample to last me until I find a good sale.  I haven't had a chance to use the eyebrow pencil yet, although I don't normally fill in my brows and I've heard WONDERFUL things about the Michael Todd line.  The Urban Decay lipstick applied beautifully... but why do they keep giving me the bright fuchsia colors?  I looked like a clown.  The sample did make me want to buy a full size in another color though...

All in all, out of the two months I've received my Ipsy bag, I've more than gotten my $10 out of each bag.  They are sample sizes, but they're deluxe to full size samples of product that retail over $20 each.  If every item in the bags are used, then we get around $50 worth of products to try, plus a bag, for $10.  Even if we don't try everything (anyone want my clown lipstick!?) I've still gotten well over the $10 I've spent of usable products.

Final verdict: I love it.  I'm kind of a cosmetics nerd, so this subscriptions allows me to get 5 new products a month for $10.  I get my fix, and don't go over budget... plus I get some cool higher end products as well!  I can't wait for September!

If you'd like to give Ipsy bag a try, click here for subscription information.

Have you ever tried a beauty subscription box? Let me know in the comments below!

Friday, August 16, 2013

Dollar Tree: What to Get, and What to Skip



Don’t you just love Dollar Tree? It’s like a gigantic dollar hot spot of items. Unless you’re buying your Sunday paper, it’s hard to walk out of that store without feeling like you got a great deal! On the other hand, just because everything is $1 doesn't necessarily mean that it’s worth $1. Let’s take a look at some of the things I always buy at the Dollar Store, and items I’m willing to pay extra for somewhere else.

What to Get 

Bagged Gift Items: Greeting cards are .50 cents. Gift bags and tissue paper is $1 a package. This is the ONLY place I will buy these items. Some big box stores have now opened a “dollar” section for greeting cards, but the selection is very poor compared to Dollar Tree. Gift bags at other stores can cost upwards of $3 to $4, especially if you’re gift is big enough to need a jumbo bag. Stick to Dollar Tree for all your gift wrapping needs. 

Bread: Dollar Tree carries a full loaf of bread for $1. Great Value white bread normally runs around $1.19 in my area, and DT bread is just as good. This one is a no brainier! 

Personal Hygiene Items: If you’re a couponer, you know that you can get most of your shampoos, soaps and deodorants for free from time to time, but if you’re just trying to live frugally then Dollar Tree’s personal items are a great option. DT sells full size shampoos, body wash, bar soap and deodorant that work just as well as some of your lower end products at the big box stores. Plus, they often have smaller sizes of the name brand products; including in their make-up section. 

Hair Tools and Accessories: Dollar Tree has an AMAZING selection of bows, ribbons, clips and elastics at a great price. I've never had a problem with any of the clips, and only once has a pack of headbands been poor quality (All three snapped in two on top of my head… but I also have a big head, so I’m not blaming the headbands). On top of this, they also carry hair tools like heatless curlers, combs and brushes in a variety of sizes of styles. No need to spend high dollar on these basic items. 

What to Skip: 

Gift Wrap: Section is mostly in reference to #1 on the What To Get list. White Gift Cards, bags and tissue paper are GREAT to purchase at Dollar Tree, gift wrap is not. I noticed this last Christmas, when I bought several rolls to wrap multiple gifts. The rolls from Dollar Tree were not only thin and ripped easily, but the roll contained less than half the paper that a $3 roll from Target contained. I was able to wrap around 2 medium sized gifts with one roll of wrapping paper at Dollar Tree, and that’s if the gift’s sharp corners didn't poke a hole in the thin paper. Next Christmas, I’ll spend a little more for better quality paper. 

Batteries: These normally come in a pack 1 to 2 batteries per pack, which on the surface is a good deal. The problem I've run into with the Dollar Tree batteries is they don’t last! It is much more cost effective to buy a pack of batteries for $2 or $3 that will last over 4 times as long. 

Paper Products: Unless you have a coupon for a brand name item, the price per inch is a better deal at Target or Wal-Mart. As far as the “store brand” Dollar Tree products, they are mostly of the 1-ply variety. You’re better off paying a little more for better quality. Their plastic wrap and foil have been poor quality compared to what I pay a little more for at the larger stores.

Dish and Laundry Detergent: I have two major problems with dish and laundry detergent from DT: size and quality. Every name brand detergent is in such small bottles, it’s not worth it to spend $1 when I can get one slightly bigger for the same price on sale! The store brand detergents, while in a nice sized container, are so watered down and thin that it’s hard to believe there is enough cleaner in the container to do the job. Bottom line, skip it.

Hydrogen Peroxide: The same size that Dollar Tree carries can be found at both Walmart and Target for around .89 cents.

Canned Vegetables:  Dollar Tree will have their canned vegetables priced anywhere from $.79 to $1, but that isn't a good deal.  Most grocery stores have their canned goods priced around $.85 but will often fall even cheaper with a good sale.  Dollar Tree is also notorious for putting close to expiration items on the shelf, so stocking up on canned goods at DT is never a good idea.

Friday, August 9, 2013

Frugal Friday: What To Do With a Free Item Coupon



Have you ever opened up your mailbox to find coupons like the ones listed above?  I LOVE when this happens! Free is the best way to be, right?  While getting a free item, no purchase necessary, is a great feeling, there are certain strategies we can use to make sure we get even more out of these coupons.


1. Wait For A Reward
Drug stores frequently give rewards for purchasing products. If we get a coupon for a free bottle of shampoo, for example, and CVS offers a $1 in ECBs, then that makes this free product a money maker! Use the coupon to purchase the shampoo, pay nothing but tax (depending on your state), and receive $1 back on your next purchase.

2. Wait For A BOGO Sale
What's better than getting one item for free? Well... getting TWO item for free! Buy 1 Get 1 free sales are a perfect time to use a free product coupon. Let's say you have a coupon for a free bottle of shampoo. If you come across a sale that's Buy 1 shampoo, get 1 free, then you can use your free shampoo coupon to buy the 1st bottle of shampoo and then get your second bottle for free.

3.  Wait For A Sale
If your coupon's expiration date is coming in quickly and you haven't run across any sales listed above, then your best strategy would still be to wait until the item is on sale.  The reason?  If you're in a state that charges full sales tax after a coupon, then your tax will still be cheaper if the item is on sale.

If, for any reason, you don't come across a chance to use any of the above strategies, there is still good news!  The good news is that you still have a free product coupon, so run to your local store and pick it up!

Hope this helped and fee free to post any questions or comments below.  Happy Couponing!

Tuesday, August 6, 2013

CENTSable Beauty: Store Brand Adventures, Family Dollar


Welcome back to CENTSable Beauty, our Frugal Beauty series from the ladies at Auntie M Coupon Training.  Today, we will be taking another look at the good and the bad of store brands. To see our Target Store Brand Adventure, click HERE.

Now, onto the reviews.

Night Firming Cream
Price: $2.00
Grade: F


I really wanted to like this cream.  The first time I applied it, it had an interesting tingling sensation that made me feel like it was working.  Turns out... it was just breaking me out.

Pros:
  • Moisturizing

Cons:
  • Made me break out.  Within a week of using this nightly, I had tiny, under the skin bumps that were not clearing up.  This is not for sensitive skin.
  • I didn't like the scent.  It smelled like basic body lotion, which I wouldn't put on my face.
  • Too thick in consistency.
  • No "Firming" action, or really no benefits to the product.
Clear Hand Soap
Price: $1.25
Grade: B



Bottom line: I would repurchase this product just for the price to quantity ratio.

Pros:
  • This is a BIG bottle for the price.
  • Think formula and no sticky residue.
  • Pleasant Smell

Cons:
  • Didn't work for exceptionally dirty hands (Example, my husband tried to get grease from the car off his hands and NOTHING happened).
Shave Cream for Sensitive Skin
Price: $2
Grade: A



I may be the only person who still uses shave cream (as opposed to shave "gel") but I just prefer it.  Family Dollar did not seem to offer a Shave Gel at my location.

Pros:
  • Foamed Well
  • Spread Well
  • Unscented (or unnoticeable scent)
  • Good size product for the price.
  • Shaved my legs with a new razor and this cream.  Left my legs without a single bump or ingrown.

Cons:
  • No cons worth mentioning.

Foaming Facial Cleanser
Price: $3
Grade: B



This cleanser is supposed to be comparable to the Neutrogena Foaming Cleanser.

Pros:
Left my face feeling clean.
I tested it by using toner after cleansing, and there seemed to be no left over makeup or dirt on the cotton pad.
Unscented or undetectable scent.
No breakouts!

Cons:
Little to no foaming... should just be called "Facial Cleanser."

Oil Free Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin
Price: $3
Grade: A-



This product is comparable to the Neutrogina Oil-Free Moisturizer for Sensitive Skin.

Every once in a while, I find a product that completely surprises me. I bought this knowing it would get an average grade, but I find that I like it even better than the product it is trying to imitate.

Pros:
Very light, but still moisturizing.
No breakouts!  So, it's good for sensitive skin.
No scent or undetectable scent.
Absorbed into my skin very quickly.  I normally wait 10 minutes after moisturizing to start my makeup, but with this product I felt like I didn't have to.  It was set into my skin at least 5 minutes after application.

Cons:
Wish it was a few cents cheaper, just for being an off brand.

Friday, August 2, 2013

Frugal Friday: Another Use For Blue Dawn Dish Soap




Here is a simple frugal carpet cleaner. And it works better than any carpet cleaner I've purchased.

32 oz hydrogen perioxide (.88¢ at Walmart, .89¢ at Target, and $1 at Dollar Tree) 32 oz water A quirt of blue Dawn dish soap (9 oz bottle can be purchase $1.49 when not on sale. And as low as .88¢ when on sale. Combine with coupon and only pay .13¢ after sale and coupon. )

I use an empty laundry detergent bottle to put it in. (32 use) I have put this in spray bottles to spray on stains, or put directly into carpet cleaner. It cleans better than anything I've ever used.

You do not have to worry about the color of the carpet. It will not discolor the carpet. I’ve used it on dark carpet and light carpet alike, no problems.

Friday, July 26, 2013

Frugal Friday: Coupons in the Mail!



Finding coupons for products we love isn't always easy. We look in the Sunday paper, we Google printables, and even search around their websites and Facebook pages without any luck! One of the many things we teach during our Couponing 101 class is, that when all else fails, email a company and ask for a coupon!

A lot of us have been doing this for years, but a few months ago I came across this blog post on Pinterest. It is a gigantic list of all the companies that have sent out coupons to shoppers who send them an email. So... I was on a mission. In a few hours I had emailed all of them with the simple message "Hello! I really love your products. Do you ever send coupons out to customers through the mail?"

This message didn't work for all of them, but I was shocked at how many envelopes were in my mailbox within the week! Below, I've collected a list of all the great coupons I received.

(2) $.75/1 Dreyer’s Ice Cream Product
(2) $.50/1 Haagen-Dazs 14 oz or package of bars
(1) $1/1 Carbonell Olive Oil 17oz or larger
(2) $.50/1 Florida’s Natural Fruit Juice
(2) $1/1 Barber Foods Entrée 2-pack
(1) $.55/1 Horizon Organic Product
(2) $1/1 Whiskas Product or Temptations Treats
(2) $1/1 Jose Ole Item 16oz or larger
(2) $1/1 Tide Product
(1) $.55/1 Kozy Shack product
(1) .55/1 Land O Lakes Saute Express package
(1) $.55/1 Land O Lakes Margarine or Buttery Taste Spread
(1) $.55/1 Land O Lakes Butter Product
(1) $.50/1 Land O Lakes Egg Product
(2) $.75/2 Blue Diamond Nut-Thins 4.25oz
(2) $.75/2 Blue Diamond Nut Chips 4.25oz
(2) $1/2 Blue Diamond products 4oz or larger
(2) $1/1 Farm Rich product
(3) $.50/1 Tribe Hummus Product
(1) $1/1 Tribe Hummus Product
(2) $1/1 Mt. Olive Product (they also sent two refrigerator magnets!)
(2) $.75/1 Welch’s Product
(2) $1/1 Ling Ling Product
(2) $.75/1 Malt-O-Meal Cereal 15.5 oz or larger
(4) $1/1 Boathouse Farms Salad Dressing
(2) $.50/2 Zatarain’s Rice or Pasta Mix
(1) $.50/2 Birdeye items
Booklet of 6 different Stonyfield Products
Booklet of 13 different GlaxoSmithKline products

So, if you've got some time to kill, start emailing! It didn't take as long as I had thought it would and now I have a few binder pages FULL of higher value coupons. WOOT WOOT!

Tuesday, July 23, 2013

CENTSable Beauty: The Cheapest Brush Cleaner... EVER





Cleaning your makeup brushes is an essential step in order to keep bacteria away from your face.  There are plenty of different cleaners out there, ranging from $50 high end solutions to store brand serums for $5... but nothing, and I mean NOTHING beats the price of this Pinterest find.

Ingredients for DIY Brush Cleaner

  • 1 Cup Warm Water
  • 1 Tablespoon White Vinegar
  • 1 Tablespoon Blue Dawn (Must be Blue)
  • Paper Towel and/or dish towel
  • All Your Dirty Brushes



Mix water, vinegar and Dawn in a bowl.  I like to stir it up with one of my smaller brushes.  It'll turn a weird grey color, so it's not very pretty.  If it turns any other color... you must have too much makeup on your brush. ;)


Don't judge the dirt... I wear a lot of foundation.


After swirling a brush in the solution, take it and run it across a dish towel.  Daily use brushes, like my foundation brush pictured to the right, might not rinse clean the first time.  Dunk it back in he solution until the brush swipes clean.

Rinse each brush with cold water after cleaning, or else they will forever smell of vinegar!

Shake, squeeze or push our as much of the excess water as possible, then lay your brushes out on a paper towel to dry.  Note: It may take up to 24 hours for your bigger brushes to completely dry, so don't clean them right before you want to use them!

Friday, July 19, 2013

Working with Money Makers!

Has anyone noticed the $2 off any Almay Cosmetic item coupon this weekend?  We LOVE seeing this coupon, because not only are we able to get some makeup removing pads for free... but we get to make some money on them too!

Here's the deal:
Almay Eye Makeup Remover Pads (15ct) $1.14
Use $2 off
Final Price - FREE + .86 cent overage!

Here are some example trips, just to show you how it could work.

                   
Micki's Trip!
4 Makeup Removers and Color Safe Bleach
Only Paid $2.64!
Angela's Trip!
10 Makeup Removers, 12 boxes of pasta, and a tank
top to soak up the overage.

She only paid $.85!


 Here are some great trips from Auntie M Students and Friends!


5 Makeup Removers, 4 Bayer Chewables and 2 Axe body
spray for only $4.62!
"3 make up removers, two pks filler paper, 1 crate, an a candy
bar my son devoured... OOP $.68!!"

If you have access to these coupons, run and get some!  These are great products anyway, but even better when you can put them towards the rest of your basket!

Friday, July 12, 2013

Frugal Friday: Weekend Back to School Deals




Academy
Back packs starting at $7.99
Uniform shirts for kids $5.99
Juniors $8.99 (Walmart is a better deal)
Uniform shorts and scooters $8.99
Girls jumpers $9.99
Boys pants $11.99


Office Depot
Five Star Poly Clear Folders $1
Select supplies 50% off!
4 pack of Expo Dry Erase $3 (Great to give to teachers!)

Staples
25-50% off all backpacks!

Penny Deals this week: (With additional $5 purchase)
4oz Liquid Glue
Plastic Pencil Box
Rose Art Crayons

Quarter Deals:
Staples Memo pad with magnetic closure

Dollar Deals
Pack of Multipurpose Printer Paper (After Rebate)
Zebra Z-Grip Mechanical Pencil 7-pack
200 Page Notebook 5.5" x 4.25"

Two Dollar Deals
Rose Art 10 Pack Washable Markers
6 Pack Pen Style Highlighters
3 pack of Elmers Glue Sticks

Office Max
Penny Deals: (With Additional $5 Purchase)
Multi Color Plastic Folders
4 oz. Liquid Glue

1 Subject Spiral Notebook $1
Solid Color Composition Notbook $.50

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

Albertsons Matchup 07/10/13 through 07/16/13





Check your local store for a coupon policy. Each location is different, and experiences may vary.

Albertsons Large Eggs Dozen $1.00 0 $1.00
Arrid Extra Dry deodorant 2.6 oz $1.00 0 $1.00
Barilla Pasta 12-16 oz. $1.00 0.55/2 $0.73 05-19 S2
Betty Crocker Cake Mix 15.25 oz. $1.00 0 $1.00
Borden Grill Melts 12 oz. 12 oz. $2.50 0 $2.50
Essential Everyday Singles, 10.7-12 oz. 10.7-12 oz $2.50 0 $2.50
Bowl Appétit! 2.4-3.10 oz. $1.00 0 $1.00
C&H Sugar 4 lb. $2.79 0 $2.79
Capri Sun 100 % Juice 10 Count $3.49 0 $3.49
Chicken of The Sea Chunk Light Tuna 5 oz., In Oil or Water $0.88 0 $0.88
Chicken Split Breasts, Drumsticks or Thighs Previously Frozen $0.98 0 $0.98
Chobani Yogurt 6 oz. $1.00 0 $1.00
Clif Bar, Clif Mojo Bar, Clif Builders Bar, Pure Protein Bar, Zone Perfect Bar or PowerBar Performance Bar, Energy Blasts Chews or PowerGel Energy Gel 1.58-2.4 oz. Select Varieties $1.00 $1/5 $0.80 03-31 AY
Coke, Sprite, Diet Coke or Coke Zero 2 Liter $1.00 0 $1.00
Conair hair accessories $1.00 0 $1.00
Dannon Activia 4 Pack $2.00 1 $2.00 exp 7/13 05-19 S1
Dawn Dish Detergent 9 oz. $0.88 0.25 $0.13 07-07 PG
Essential Everyday Chunk Cheese Bars or Shredded Cheese 8 oz., Select Varieties $2.00 0 $2.00
Freeman Shampoo or Conditioner 6-13.50 oz $1.00 0 $1.00
Fresh From Your Bakery Focaccia Bread 12 oz. $1.00 0 $1.00
Healthy Choice Lunch Entrées 8.5-10.5 oz., $1.99 0 $1.99
Herbal Essences shampoo, conditioner, styling ads 6-10 oz $2.50 $5/2 $- 07-07 PG
Hot Pockets 9 oz. Select Varieties $1.88 0 $1.88
Stouffer’s Signature Classics 6-11.5 oz. Select Varieties $1.88 0 $1.88
Hot Shot Wasp & Hornet Flying Insect or Roach & Ant 14 - 17 oz $2.50 1 $1.50 05-19 RP
Hunt’s Pasta Sauce 24 oz. $1.00 0 $1.00
International Delight Iced Coffee 64 oz. $3.00 0 $3.00
Keebler Snack Cups 2.75-4 oz. $1.00 0 $1.00
Maruchan Instant Lunch Cups 2.25 oz. 2.25 oz $0.29 0 $0.29
Shawnee Mills Cornbread Mix 6 oz. 6 oz. $0.29 0 $0.29
Michelina’s Zap’ems Gourmet 7.5 oz. $0.44 0 $0.44
Minute Maid Fruit Drinks 59 oz. $1.25 0 $1.25
Nestlé or Mars King Size Candy 1.77-3.7 oz. Select Varieties $1.00 0 $1.00
Nivea Body Was 16.9 $2.50 0 $2.50
Pictsweet Frozen Vegetables 12-16 oz. $1.00 0 $1.00
Plum Organics Baby Food 3.17-4 oz., Beech-Nut Fruities 4 oz., Gerber Pure Purified Water 128 oz. or Looney Tunes Wipes 80 Ct. Select Varieties $1.00 $1.00
Puffs Facial Tissue 56-64 ct. $0.88 .25/3 $0.63 07-07 PG
Pure Silk shave cream 8 oz., Select Varieties $1.00 0 $1.00
Red Gold Canned Tomatoes 14.5-15 oz. or Libby’s Canned Vegetables 14.5-15.25 oz. $0.88 $0.88
Rice A Roni or Pasta Roni 4.20 -7.20 oz. $0.88 0 $0.88
Scunci hair accessories $1.00 0 $1.00
Tony Chachere’s Rice Dinners 3-8 oz. $1.00 0 $1.00
Tony Chachere’s Seasoning Blend 5-8 oz. $1.00 0 $1.00
Totino’s Party Pizza 9.8-10.5 or Pizza Rolls 15 ct. $1.00 0.2 $1.00 Printable
Wrigley’s Orbit, Extra, Eclipse or Classics Gum 14-18 Ct. $1.00 0 $1.00

Tuesday, July 9, 2013

CENTSable Beauty: Store Brand Adventures, Target

It's happened to all of us at one time or another.  We've run out of something essential, and there is not a sale or coupon in sight.   It's happened... We're going to have to bite the bullet and pay regular price.

I hate this as much as the rest of you do.  On the other hand, I also hate going without body wash or make up remover just because I'm waiting on a sale.  So what's the frugal option? Store Brands.


Today, we're going to explore 5 products that Target has to offer.  The really great thing about Target is that they DO offer coupons on some of their store brand products (Market Pantry for food items, and Up & Up for Home, Health and Beauty items).  In this post, I will review and rate five different beauty products that Target has to offer!

Up & Up Exfoliating Apricot Facial Towelettes 30 Ct.
Price: $ 2.54
Grade: D+


Let me preface this by saying that I normally use Neutrogena towelettes for make-up removal, which is the cheapest name brand on the shelf.  These store brand towelettes did not cost that much less, and only had 5 more towelettes in the package than the Neutrogena brand.  If I needed makeup removers, I would probably just spend the extra cash to get the name brand product that works.

Pros:
  • Freshens a clean face (no makeup)
  • Smells Nice, the apricot smell was present but not overwhelming

Cons:
  • Did not remove all my makeup. It did get a good portion off, but I went back with an Almay wipe to check residue, and there was A LOT of product that came off with the second wipe.  
  • Very dry.  I like a wet cloth, and this one was hadn't moist when the package was first opened.  As I got closer to the bottom and more air got into the package, they continued to get even dryer.
  • The exfoliating beads were a nice touch, but it's too rough with a dry formula.


Bottom line, I wouldn't repurchase.  I'm going to use the rest of these up as a "refresher" for days I'm not wearing makeup, but it doesn't function as a cleansing cloth or as a makeup removing towelette.  Skip this, and buy name brand.

Up & Up Facial Scrub
Price: $ 3.97
Grade B+

I was pleasantly surprised at this product.  The packaging says that it is comparable to the St. Ives Blemish and Blackhead Control Apricot Scrub, and it reminds me a lot of that product.  If you're a big fan of St. Ives, this will not completely duplicate the feeling that product gave me, but it comes really close and is was a great general scrub.

Pros:
  • Smells great
  • Was rough enough to exfoliate, but still gentle.
  • Didn't break me out (BIG WIN)

Cons:
  • Wouldn't recommend for sensitive skin.  I don't have sensitive skin, but I can see how some people that LOVE the St. Ives product will be disappointed with how big the exfoliating beads are.
  • Didn't give me the fresh/tingly feeling that St. Ives did.  This isn't really a negative mark, just that I hoped that it would.

 I would purchase this product again.  It did was it was supposed to do and didn't irritate my skin.

Up & Up Oil Free Body Wash
Price: $ 4.19
Grade: A+



This product got such a high grade for one big reason: it's better than the product it's trying to imitate.

Pros:
  • Smell is great.  Fragrant but not overwhelming.
  • Lathered well.
  • Left me feeling clean!
  • Oil free, but still moisturizing.  This was why I thought I WOULDN'T like this product.  The Neutrogina Oil Free wash, for me, is so "oil free" that it dries out my skin.  I hated it.  This body wash left mys kin soft without it feeling "slick."

Cons:
  • I found none for this product.

I would absolutely purchase this product again.  Price was great for the amount of product I got, and I found that I liked it even better than the name brand.  Win, win!

Up & Up Oil-Absorbing Sheets
Price: $ 2.54
Grade: B



Pros:
  • Compared to the Olay sheets (which these are trying to emulate) they work close to the same.  I needed to use an extra sheet now and then, which I never had to do with Olay, but overall they did their job.

Cons:
  • Price.  I think the $1 sheets from Elf are a better value than these sheets are.

The main reason these sheets got so low a grade was completely because of price.  It is still a good value compared to Olay, but next time I will end up buying Elf brand blotting papers instead.

Up & Up Nail POlish Remover Dip-It Acetone
Price: $ 4.04
Grade: A+



This remover was the reason I wanted to do Target products first.  I saw a raving review about this product and wanted a reason to try it.  This is not your typical "sponge" pot remover, but instead has a rubbery plastic interior with bristles to help scrub off polish.

Pros:
  • Remove regular nail polish in less than 5 seconds, very little scrubbing
  • Removes glitter polish within 15 seconds, moderate scrubbing.
  • Removes Acrylic nails with moderate soaking and scrubbing, depending on how thick the nails are.

Cons:
  • I wasn't completely happy with the acrylic nail removal, but it worked better than any other method I tried.
  • This product is pure acetone, which some people have issues with.
This is will probably be my #1 nail polish buy from now on.  The packaging doesn't state that it's comparable to any name brand product, and I have never seen anything quite like it.  From what I can tell, this is a Target invention.  I purchased this originally to remove my acrylic nails, and it took much longer than I expected to remove them.  On the other hand, it was still easier than any other method I've tried.  Fantastic product!

Are there any Target products that you love? Any store brands you'd like me to look at next? Let me know in the comments below!

Saturday, July 6, 2013

Frugal Friday: Important Stockpile Items



Some people seem to think that couponers have these huge stockpiles of things they will never use.(Thank you Extreme Couponers TV). Well, maybe that’s why I don’t consider myself an extreme couponer. I have some basic items I will stock up on when they have their extreme discounts. Usually these are based on the time of year. It’s important to know what is the normal price, so you know when it’s an extreme discount.

Yes, I've been known to buy 24 jars of spaghetti sauce when I was getting them for .30 cents each or less.

This is my list of my stock pile must haves. Some items, like condiments, we just have to have. The others have become my “go to” meals. Not long ago, we had an unexpected vet bill of $600. Well, that killed my grocery budget. But I was able to make meals for a few weeks just from my stock pile of frozen meats, veggies and items from my go to list.

My go to list includes:
  • Pasta 
  • Pasta sauce 
  • Rice 
  • Chili 
  • Salad dressing 
  • Condiments 
  • Barbeque sauce 
  • Soups (basically “cream of” soups) 

Here are my suggestions of how I use these items repeatedly and keep it meals interesting:

  • Chili – I can make enchiladas, chili dogs, frito pie, or just serve chili 
  • Pasta sauce - spaghetti, chicken parm, use as pizza sauce, even serve with rice. 
  • Rice – I love rice because I use it plain, in casseroles, with meat or without, and even as breakfast or dessert. 
  • Pasta – where to start?? I love pasta with butter, garlic and spinach. But you can make spaghetti, all kinds of pasta salads (remember that Italian dressing you bought??) Make a sauce from the cream soups and pour over the pasta. 
  • Barbeque sauce – I use this over chicken, with hamburger meat, my kids love it over hot dog weinies, add it to beans. 
  • Salad dressing - my kids eat ranch dressing on everything. I love Italian for marinades, pasta salads, etc. I usually keep an Asian or something with ginger to use in stir fry. I’m now hooked on Strawberry vinaigrette for spinach. 

I try to look outside the box for ways to use these items. Most of these items I will find on sale for less than a dollar and stock up. I can use combinations of these to create meals that cost me less than a dollar per person.

These are my basics. I keep a supply of frozen veggies. And stock up on all types of meats, poultry, and fish as they go on sale. Having those basics really saves me time and money. Start thinking about your own “go to” meal items. Pay attention to the regular price, and then you’ll know when the time is right to buy them in mass quantities. You won’t regret it!

Thursday, July 4, 2013

Brookshires Match Up 07/03/13 through 07/09/13


Don't forget to print your Brookshires Coupon Acceptance Policy!

BR All Laundry Detergent 33 loads $4.99 $1/1 $3.99 RP 06/02/13 or printable Printable
BR Angel Soft Bath Tissue 24 rolls $5.00 .25/1 $4.25 Printable
BR Betty Crocker brownie mix 19.9 oz $1.00 0 $1.00
BR Betty Crocker cake mix 15.25 oz $1.00 0 $1.00
BR Betty Crocker dinner helpers 12.2 oz $1.00 .75/3 $0.75 SS 06/30/13 R
BR Blue Bunny pops 12 ct $2.00 0 $2.00
BR Brawny paper towels 8 rolls $5.99 $2/2 $4.99 RP 06/30/13 R or printable for $1/1 Printable
BR Chicken of the Sea chunk light tuna 5 oz $0.79 .50/1 free if coupon works this is for no drain tuna, so it may not work Printable
BR Clorox clean up cleaner 32 oz $2.50 0 $2.50 75
BR Clorox disenfectant wipes 75 ct $3.99 $1/2 $3.49 Printable
BR Clorox bleach 64 oz $2.00 0 $2.00 50
BR Clorox Disinfecting bathroom cleaner 30 oz $2.50 0 $2.50 75
BR Daisy brand sour cream 16 oz $2.00 0 $2.00
BR Dean's dip 16 oz $2.00 $1/2 $1.50 Printable
BR El Charrito dinners 11 oz $1.00 0 $1.00
BR El Charrito Taquitos or rolled tacos 16 oz $3.50 0 $3.50
BR Formula 409 cleaner 32 oz $2.50 0 $2.50 75
BR French's mustard 14 oz $1.25 .30/1 $0.35 SS 06/16/13
BR Fresh Express salad blends 6 oz $2.50 0 $2.50
BR Glad Cling Wrap or Press'n Seal 100 sf $2.00 0 $2.00
BR Glad trash bags 80 ct $5.99 0 $5.99
BR Harvest Club mini peeled carrots 1 lb $1.50 0 $1.50
BR Harvest Club russet potatoes 5 lb $2.99 0 $2.99
BR Herdez Salsa 16 oz $2.00 0 $2.00
BR Hidden Valley ranch dressing or Farmhouse originals 18 oz $3.00 $1/1 $2.00 SS 05/19/13 R
BR Honey sweet yellow onions per lb $0.99 0 $0.99
BR Hormel boston butt pork roast per lb $1.99 $1/1 $0.99 05-19 S1
BR Hormel compleats 10 oz $2.00 0 $2.00
BR Hormel Country Crock side dishes 24 oz $3.00 .55/1 $2.45 06-09 S2
BR Hormel Country Style pork ribs per lb $1.99 $1/1 $0.99 05-19 S1
BR Hormel Cure 81 ham 12 oz $3.00 0 $3.00
BR Hormel Natural Choice sandwich meats 8 oz $3.00 .50/1 $2.00 05-19 S1
BR Hormel or Lloyd's Woodfire entrees 15 oz $4.99 $1/1 06-09 S2
BR Hormel Pork Loan Filets 24 oz $6.99 $1/1 $5.99 05-19 S1
BR Hormel Rev wraps 3 oz $1.50 $1/2 $1.00 06-23 S1
BR Hot Pockets or Lean Pockets 2 ct $2.00 0 $2.00
BR John Morrell Rath Black Hawk Hot Dogs 12 oz $0.89 0 $0.89
BR John Morrell Thick bacon 3 lbs $9.99 0 $9.99 this is 3 lbs, so price per lb. is $3.33 which is a good price
BR Kc Masterpiece BBQ sauce 18 oz $1.25 0 $1.25
BR KC Masterpiece marinade 16 oz $2.50 0 $2.50
BR Kellogg's pop tarts 14.7 oz $1.69 $1/3 $1.36 06-23 RP
BR La Victoria salsa 16 oz $2.00 $1/2 $1.50 05-19 S1
BR Land O' Frost lunchmeat 9 oz $2.00 .55/1 $1.45 06-23 RP
BR Large peaches or nectarines per lb $1.49 0
BR Lloyd's Shredded BBQ 18 oz $3.79 $1/1 $2.79 06-09 S2
BR Marie Callender's Cream Pies or Cobblers 39 oz $4.99 0 $4.99 must load .50/1 coupon to your Brookshire card
BR Mt Olive Pickles 32 oz $1.79 .75/1 $1.04 06-30 S
BR Nature's Own Bagels 6 ct $1.99 0 $1.99 must load .50/1 coupon to your Brookshire card
BR Nature's Own cinnamon Raisin Swirl bread 16 oz $1.99 0 $1.99
BR Nature's Own English muffin 6 ct $1.99 0 $1.99
BR Oscar Mayer beef franks 16 oz $2.50 0 $2.50
BR Red Ripe tomatoes 4 ct $2.00 0 $2.00
BR Smithfield Deli Think lunchmeat 9 oz $2.50 0 $2.50
BR Sno White Cauliflower each $2.00 0 $2.00
BR Snuggle Fabric softener 32 load $3.49 .50/1 $2.49 RP 06/30/13 100
BR Sparkle Paper Towels 8 rolls $5.00 $1/1 $4.00 ALL YOU July '13 100
BR Sun Laundry detergent 125 loads $4.99 $1/2 $4.49 RP 06/23/13 R
BR Tyson Boneless skinless chicken 43 oz $4.99 0 $4.99
BR Van Camp's pork and beans 15 oz $0.50 0 $0.50
BR Wholly guacamole 14 oz $3.99 $1/1 $2.99 $1/2 \SS 06/30/13 printable on facebook is $1/1 Printable and another Printable
BR Wolf Brand Chili 15 oz $1.50 0 $1.50

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

Dollar General Match-Up 06/30/13 through 07/06/13




Don't forget to print and carry your Dollar General Coupon Policy!




DG Bic Flame disk $4.50 $2/1 $2.50 SS 05/19/13 #2 R
DG Capri Sun big pouch 2 qt $1.00 0 1
DG Capri Sun liquid drink 2 qt $1.00 0 1
DG Cheetos 9.75 pz $1.67 0 1.67
DG French's Yellow mustard 8 oz $1.00 $1/2 0.5 SS 06/16/13 R
DG Hawaiian Punch gallon $2.00 0 2
DG Hershey's chocolate bar 6 pk $3.00 $1/2 $2.50 SS 06/23/13 DG coupon .50off WYB both Hershy and Honey Maid
DG Honey Maid graham crackers 14.4 oz $2.75 $1/2 $2.25 SS 06/23/13
DG Jello instant powder pudding or gelatin 3.9 oz $0.75 0 0.75
DG Kraft jet puffed marshmallows 10 oz $1.00 .20/2 0.9 SS 06/23/13
DG Snickers or milky way bites 7 oz $2.85 0 2.85
DG Suavitel liquid fabric softener 56 oz $3.00 .25/1 2.75 SS 06/16/13

Kroger Price Match 07/03/13 through 07/09/13


Don't forget to take your Kroger Coupon Policy and you Kroger Digital Coupon policy with you!

KR Capri Sun 10 pk $1.49 0 $1.49 buy 10 save $5
KR Cheez it 13 oz $1.49 0 $1.49 buy 10 save $5
KR Country Time 6-8 qt $0.79 $- $0.79 buy 10 save $5
KR Frito Lay 13 oz $1.49 0 $1.49 buy 10 save $5
KR General Mills cereals 13.5 oz $1.99 $1/2 $1.49 SS 06/09/13 buy 10 save $5
KR Green Giant steamers 12 oz $0.99 $1/3 $0.66 Printable buy 10 save $5
KR Hot Pockets 2 ct $1.19 0 $1.19 buy 10 save $5
KR Kool aid 6-8 qt $0.79 0 buy 10 save $5
KR Kraft American singles 16 oz $1.99 0 $1.99 buy 10 save $5
KR Lay's 10-5 oz $2.00 0 $2.00 buy 10 save $5
KR M & M candies 19.2 oz $3.49 $1/1 $2.49 RP 06/02/13 R buy 10 save $5
KR Minute Maid orange juice 59 oz $1.99 0 $1.99 buy 10 save $5
KR Oscar Mayer beef franks 16 oz $2.77 0 $2.77 buy 10 save $5
KR Oscar Mayer shaved lunch meat 16 oz $2.49 0 $2.49 buy 10 save $5
KR Pillsbury Grands biscuits 8 ct $0.98 $1/2 $0.48 SS 05/19/13 R buy 10 save $5
KR Purex launddry detergent 50 use $2.49 $1/2 $1.99 RP 06/30/13 buy 10 save $5
KR Ragu pasta sauce 24 oz $1.18 .30/2 $1.03 Printable buy 10 save $5
KR Red Diamond tea gallon $2.00 0 $2.00
KR Schick xtreme razors 4 ct $4.49 $3/1 $1.49 SS 06/09/13
KR Totino's party pizza 10.9 OZ $0.69 $1/5 $0.49 coupons.com buy 10 save $5
KR Town House crackers 16 oz $1.49 0 $1.49 buy 10 save $5
KR Ziploc containers 8 ct $1.99 $1/2 $1.49 Printable buy 10 save $5

Albertson's Matchup 7/3/13 through 7/9/13



Check your local store for a coupon policy. Each location is different, and experiences may vary.

AA Albertson's hamburger bun 8 ct $0.69 0
AA Albertson's hot dog buns 8 ct $0.69 0
AA Axe deoderant $3.50 0
AA Beneful dog food 17 oz $14.99 3 SS 04/28/13 must buy Purina Beneful Dog Food AND Beneful Baked Delights Dog Snacks
AA Blue Bell ice cream half gallon $3.98 $1/1 $2.98 bluebell.com
AA Blue Bunny bomp pops 12 ct $1.50 .75/1 $0.75 bluebunny.com
AA Borden American singles 12 oz $2.00 0
AA Borden cheese 8 oz $2.00 0
AA Bounty Basic paper towels 6 rolls $4.99 .25/1 $4.29 07-07 PG coupon triples
AA California Pizza Kitchen 34 oz $4.88 0 $4.88
AA Charmin double roll 12 rolls $4.99 .25/1 $4.29 07-07 PG coupon triples
AA Dial complete hand wash 7.5 oz $2.00 $1/2 $1.50 06-16 RP
AA Digiorno Pizza 34 oz $4.88 0 $4.88
AA Dr Pepper 2 ltr $0.99 0 $0.99
AA Edwards pies 36 oz $4.99 $1/1 $3.99 06-23 S2
AA EggLand's best egg whites 16 oz $2.99 .35/1 $1.94 04-28 S2
AA Essential Everyday storage bags 25 ct $1.67 0 $1.67
AA Essential Everyday veggies 16 oz $0.88 0 $0.88
AA Finish Dishwashing detergent 32 ct $5.99 0 $5.99
AA French's flavor infuser 3.5 oz $2.29 $1/1 $1.29 06-16 S
AA Frito Lay 13 oz $2.00 0 $2.00
AA Garland Jack 18 oz $0.49 $1/2 free SS 05/12/13 R
AA Hawaiian Punch 128 oz $1.99 $1/1 $0.99 This is for Aloha Morning, so not sure it will work for this product. Printable
AA Hefty plates, cups or bowls 24-50ct $1.67 $1/2 $1.17 Printable
AA Heinz ketchup 38 oz $2.00 0 $2.00
AA Hot Lean or croissant pockets 9 oz $2.00 0 $2.00
AA Hunt's ketchup 24 oz $1.29 0 $1.29
AA Imperial sugar 4 lb $2.69 .50/1 $1.69 Printable
AA International Delight iced coffee 64 oz $3.50 .55/1 $2.95 Printable
AA Ivory body wash 12 oz $2.00 $1/2 $1.50 07-07 PG
AA Keebler cookies 15 oz $1.67 $1/2 $1.17 RP 05/12/13 R
AA Keebler crackers 16 oz $2.99 0 $2.99
AA Keebler's sandies 15 oz $2.99 $1/2 $2.49 RP 05/12/13 R
AA Kraft Mayo or MW 30 oz $2.99 0 $2.99
AA Kraft Salad Dressing 16 oz $1.50 0 $1.50
AA Lay's 13 oz $2.00 0 $2.00
AA Libby's canned fruit 15 oz $1.25 0 $1.25
AA Little Debbie snack cakes 16 oz $1.50 0 $1.50
AA Lou Ana Veggie oil 48 oz $3.49 .55/1 $2.94 03-10 RP
AA Lyson No Touch starter kit 1 ct $5.99 .75/1 $5.24 Printable
AA Minute Maid fruit drinks 59 oz $1.25 0 $1.25
AA Minute white rice 42 oz $4.99 .50/1 $3.99 Printable
AA Mission fajita grande flour tortillas 10 ct $1.25 0 $1.25
AA Mrs Smith pie 36 oz $4.99 0 $4.99
AA Nabisco oreo or chips ahoy 20 oz $3.79 $1/3 $3.46 SS 05/19/13
AA Nabisco snack crackers 9 oz $1.67 $1/3 $1.34 SS 05/19/13
AA New England coffee 12 oz $4.49
AA Newman's Own pasta sauce 24 oz $2.29 .50/1 $1.29 06-16 RP
AA Newman's Own salad dressing 16 oz $3.29 .50/1 $1.29 06-16 RP
AA Old Spice bar soap 6 pk $3.50 $1/1 $2.50 SS 06/30/13
AA Old Spice body wash 18 oz $3.50 $1/1 $2.50 SS 06/30/13
AA On the Border chips 12 oz $2.50 0 $2.50
AA Owens roll sausage 12 oz $2.99 0 $2.99
AA Pringles 6.73 oz $1.67 $1/4 $1.42 RP 06/30/13
AA Purina Cat Chow 16 lb $13.99 $1/1 $12.99 SS 04/21/13
AA Ranch Style Beans 15 oz $0.59 0 $0.59
AA Reser's classic salads 3 lb $3.99 .55/1 $3.44 Printable
AA Reynold's foil 37 ft $2.99 .75/1 $2.24 05-19 S2
AA Right Guard deoderant 3 oz $2.00 $2/2 $1.00 06-16 RP
AA Snyder's pretzel 16 oz $2.50 $1/1 $1.50 05-19 S2
AA Tony Chachere's sandwich sauce 14 oz $3.00 $1/2 $2.50 06-30 S or 4/28 S
AA Tony's crispy pizza 7 oz $1.00 0 $1.00
AA Tradewinds tea gallon $2.50 $1/1 $1.50 06-30 RP
AA Van Camp's beans 15 oz $0.59 0 $0.59
AA Vidal Sassoon shampoo or conditioner 12 oz $2.00 $0.75/1 $1.25 Printable
AA Vlasic pickles 16 oz $2.00 $1/1 $1.00 Printable
AA Yoplait yogurt 6 oz $0.60 .50/8 $0.48 SS 06/23/13

Friday, June 28, 2013



One of the many ways we make couponing and frugal living work is by stockpiling products when they go on sale, in order to use them when they’re full price.  We should buy up to 10 weeks’ worth of items that regularly go on sale, such as toilet paper or pasta, and up to a years’ worth on certain seasonal items. Ketchup and paper plates during barbecue season are a good example.  This is easy for shelf stables products that can sit in a closet for up to a year without needing to be used, but what do we do about those items that must be kept cold in order to stay fresh?

The answer is: use your freezer.  Some items are a no brainier when it comes to freezing in order to keep an item fresh for months at a time, but exactly how long can we keep that uncooked Christmas ham?  You might be surprised.

According to USDA, most uncooked meats can be kept frozen for 4 months or longer. 
                Whole Chicken – 1 year
                Chicken Pieces – 9 Months
                Fish – 3 Months – 6 Months (leaner fish keep longer)
                Ground Meat (Beef or Pork) – 2-3 Months
                Roasts or Chops (Beef or Pork) – 6 Months
                Steaks (Beef or Pork) – 6 Months

If you’re freezing cooked leftovers, then subtract the total by about 2 months.

Did you know other items could be kept in the freezer as well?  See below for some great stock pile items that can be kept in the freezer:
Milk – Milk can be kept good for up to 2 months in the freezer.  For plastic containers, remove one cup of milk in order to leave room for expansion.  This is not necessary for cardboard containers.  Thaw in the refrigerator and shake well before use.

Butter – Butter freezes and thaws LIKE A DREAM.  It can last up to 9 months in the freezer.

Eggs – It’s a bit of a chore, but if you find a great deal on eggs in bulk, this is best way to keep them fresh.  Unfortunately, you can’t just stick them in the freezer like some foods, because the shells with crack under pressure.  The video below is from a great frugal saver by the name of tipresource.  She did a fantastic “how to” video on freezing chicken eggs at home!

See The Video Here

Fruit – Bite sized fruit, such as grapes or berries, can be put in a zip lock bag and frozen as is.  Larger pieces of fruit, such as apple slices, can be spread out on parchment paper on a cookie sheet and frozen.  Once frozen, they can then be put together in a bag and stored in the back of the freezer.

Monday, June 24, 2013

CENTSable Beauty: An Introduction

Hello all, Micki here, and welcome back to Auntie M Savings Blog!  Today, we'd like to introduce a new blog series that touches on how to be frugal with the high cost of beauty products.

I think all of us ladies have at least a small (or not so small) addiction to beauty products.  It might not be makeup, but it could be a great cleanser that gets your skin squeaky clean or a shampoo that makes your hair shine like nothing else.  The problem we all run into is when we run out of product is that even the drug store brands can get a bit pricey.  With any luck, this blog series should give some helpful tips on how to stay beautiful on a not-so-beautiful budget.

This will be a bi-weekly series, so look for our first official post in two weeks.  But, for now, a small sample of some of the drug store beauty steals of the week!

CVS has three great deals I'd like to mention:

Revlon:
Buy $10 worth of Revlon products, get $4 ECBs

The deal I got was only available on Sunday, but I'd like to share a product I really like with you all anyway. Here was the deal I got:


Purchased Revlon Photo Ready Translucent Powder $13
Used (1) 25% off regular priced item coupon
Got $4 ECBs
Used (1) $2/1 Revlon Face Product (Expired Sunday)
Paid $3.75 for Translucent Powder

I've used this product for two days now, and it has to be the best translucent powder I've ever tried.  I used a loose powder by Makeup Forever on my wedding day, and it didn't even keep my oily skin at bay as long as this drugstore product did.  Amazing.

But, if you were unable to get to the store Sunday with you $2 coupon, there are still some great Revlon coupons that were released this Sunday!  $1/1 Eyeshadow, $1/1 Lip product and $1/1 Nail Polish, all of which are covered in the sale.   Most lip products run in the $8-$9 range, and the Eyeshadow palettes were $9.79 at my local store.  To get over the $10 mark, I'd suggest purchasing a low cost beauty tool, like a Revlon eyelash curler or Tweezers.

NYC Cosmetics:
Buy $5, get $2 ECBs
There are currently no coupons available for this deal, but you can still get some inexpensive makeup on a brand that is already on the lower end of affordable!

**NOTE: Wet 'n Wild cosmetics, although not in the ad, is reportedly on this same sale in stores that carry the line.  (I'm checking back at my local store for this one... Wet 'n Wild Eyeshadows are AWESOME)


Physician's Formula:
45% off all Physician's Formula Cosmetics

I wasn't originally going to mention this, because it wasn't as great of a deal as CVS normally runs ($7 ECBs for a $10 purchase makes it 70% off without even using a coupon).  However, after I purchased my Revlon powder on Sunday, a coupon appeared at the end of my receipt for $3 off any Physician's Formula cosmetic item.  This, stacked with the $1/1 manufacturer coupon from SS 4/21/13, could make a really great deal!

Do you have a frugal beauty tip you'd like to share? Have a topic you'd like us to cover in a blog post? Any great deals I missed at drug stores this week?  Feel free to share in the comments below! See you next time. 

Friday, June 21, 2013

Frugal Friday! Geocaching: Great Kids Activity

I have been trying to find various activities to help keep the kids entertained this summer. Have you ever heard of geocaching? It’s a modern version of treasure map. It can be a lot of fun, especially for the kids.

The website is http://www.geocaching.com Geocaching is a method of finding geocache (also just called a cache or treasures) that people have left for others to find, At the website, you can type in your zip code and find cashes in your area. Once you’ve typed in your zip code you’ll get something that looks like this: 


If you type on the first one on this list, you’ll get to this page.


I downloaded this beginner app from geocaching. You can do this without having to use a paid service. Once you have decided it’s something you want to do more often; then look into whether you want to upgrade to the paid service.

Once you allow them to use your location to notify you of nearby geocaches. I love the feature that once you click on a nearby geocache, you have the option of map or compass. 

I have to say I haven’t done these in a few years, and way before I had an iPhone. The phone makes it much easier than what I did in the past.

This is a great way to get out, get some exercise. Each cache is different. Most just have a log for you to sign. Others will let you know that there is a prize inside and to plan on taking it but replace with something you bring. You’ll be able to research each cache before you go searching for it.

Another option once you have done this, put out cache’s for your kids. How fun to put a hot wheel car or miniature character in a box and place it for your kids. They will have a blast finding it.