Frugal Newlyweds

Goals for 2012

2011-12-31T08:52:00.000-06:00

Oh boy, we're almost at the start of a new year, which of course means a great time to make new goals. Money Saving Mom has some great posts about how to make your goals, so if you are having trouble you should head over here. I used her steps to make my goals for the year. Here is the break down of my goals this year (not including my teaching goals- that would probably add 3 pages ;) ).

1. Memorize at least 12 verses starting with Isaiah 41:10
Fear not, for I am with you;
Be not dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you,
Yes, I will help you,
I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
I decided on this verse because I have an extremely busy month ahead (my fault- if only I could say no), and so I believe this verse will really encourage me.

2. Read at least two "wife" books this year. I'm looking into When a Woman Inspires her Husband and Rekindling the Romance: Loving the Love of your Life.

3. Visit with each set of grandparents once a month. Visit each sibling (us driving) once in the spring and once in the fall.

4. Visit long distance friends over the summer.

5. Exercise. This year I am breaking it down by the month. Don't laugh when you read this- you have to remember that I currently don't really exercise other than the squats I do while my papers are copying at work (yes I am that crazy lady in the copy room). I'm trying to be realistic this year.
Jan: 30 min/week Feb: 40 min/week Mar: 50 min/week April: 60 min/week May: 70 min/week
June: 80 min/week July: 90 min/week Aug:80 min/ week Sept: 60 min/week Oct: 60 min/week
Nov: 60 min/week Dec: 60 min/week

6. We reached our small goal this last year and we are currently at 77% of our goal (2% higher than my goal!). My goal is to reach our big goal by October.

7. Use this website to choose a Bible reading plan for the year.

8. Tape my goals to our refrigerator (it isn't magnetic :( ). Revisit once a month online.

Gratituesday: Thankful for breaks

2011-06-14T21:40:00.001-05:00

I am partnering up with Heavenly Homemakers' Gratituesday. I am so grateful for quiet times and breaks in the action. It has been a little over a week since school has ended. My first week I felt like I was still on the treadmill from school because I was charging through everything and going here and there. This week has been a bit slower. Although that slow pace seems weird to me, it is good.

I have started watching a video series on Christian counseling. I decided that I do so much counseling at school (even though I'm just a teacher) that I really would like more training. I am thankful that my church has this amazing free resource for me to use.

I have been reading books! They refresh me so much. They've challenged me on many levels. Each one pushes me a bit farther. Once again, these were provided free through my local and church library.

The main focus of my thankfulness for this week is my husband. He is very wise. Last year I just couldn't handle the thought of staying home over the summer and not having a job. Actually what bothered me most was the thought that I would have to tell people I was doing "nothing" and that they would have the image of a housewife that sat home and ate bon bons all day (which was not at all what I did last summer). My natural tendency has always been to fill my day to the brim with activities from start to finish.

However, this is not always good. My husband really really encouraged me not to get a job. At first it felt really weird. But then, all of the sudden in the silence of the day I would just feel the peace of God. It was wonderful.

This summer has been even better. Not that God doesn't speak to me during the school year, but it is the quiet of a summer day in the country that forces me to slow down and reassess my priorities and goals. Even Jesus took time away from the group to go off and be with God.

In summary, I am extremely thankful that my husband is much wiser than I and realized that I need the quiet of the summer to force me to quiet my spirit. God is doing things in my life that weren't always possible when I would try to hear his still small voice in the din of my life.

Milky Way Coupon for Milky Way Brownies

2011-06-14T15:20:00.000-05:00

Money Saving Mom posted today that there is a $0.50/2 Milky Way Brand Bars coupon at Coupons.com. I've already printed it. One idea I saw at Recipe Girl I think will be especially yummy is to use them for Milky Way brownies.
Yum!

Photo Credit: Recipe Girl

Homemade Daily Shower Spray

2011-06-14T09:40:00.000-05:00

When I started teaching I fell in love with daily shower sprays. They were so easy and worked so well that I very rarely had to scrub down our shower.

The only drawback was the price. I searched online a while ago and saw that many people had posted recipes for homemade versions of this cleaner. I have never used homemade cleaner before, so I was a bit unsure whether this was worth trying.

Today I decided to try it. I mixed up a batch of this recipe and put it in one of my old daily shower spray bottles. I'll give you an update later to see how it works.

The cost for this spray would be minimal for anyone, and was free for me. I had used a coupon a long time ago to get Cascade Crystal Clear (similar to JetDri) for free and had never used it. If this works I'll be so excited to use some of my stockpile of dish soap (we mainly use the dishwasher).

Have you ever used homemade cleaners? Did they work well?

Whew! We made it!

2011-06-10T07:08:00.000-05:00

Summer is finally here! My last day was last Friday and I am just now getting a chance to write. So many wonderful things have happened this spring and I hope that maybe I will get a chance to write about some of them over the summer.

Last year by the time spring break rolled around I was already making my list for the summer. This year I've been a bit more behind. I have been pretty much making my list as I go, which is normally not a good thing. I am hoping that next Monday I will create a big "My Summer Goals List" to post up here to keep me accountable.

The main purpose of this post though has very little to do with any of that. My husband and I will have been married 3 years!!! this July. I just keep thinking how crazy that is because it has gone by so fast. One of the things that I believe has made our marriage as great as it is are all of the books/classes/online audios on marriage that we have gone through. I believe that we are naturally sinful people and without asking for God's help daily, we start only thinking of ourselves which causes us more pain. God's plan for marriage is perfect - "Submit one to another".

This summer though I think I'm going to be sneaky and not tell him the challenge that I am involved in. I am a huge Nancy Leigh DeMoss fan. This winter she did a 30 day Husband Encouragement Challenge. Today is day 1. We'll have to see how this goes.

Part of today's challenge is to say an encouraging word about him to others. I will be singing at the nursing home today- so I'll probably talk about him then. However, it wouldn't hurt to say something nice about him on here.

I love my husband because he has had a lot of obstacles in his life and those obstacles are never going to go away. Yet, each day he pushes through and succeeds despite the obstacles in his path. And the best part is, he does it without drawing any attention to himself, there's no "look at what I did" when you are around him.

I challenge you to take part in this challenge with me. Whether your marriage is good, bad, or ugly I believe this challenge can only help things out.

Goals for 2011

2011-01-11T19:48:00.001-06:00

I find it someone interesting that it wasn't until 1/11/11 that I actually got around to writing my goals, which is kind of fun I have to say as a numbers person. I decided that this is my year to stretch myself (hence the picture). Honestly at school I feel like I am doing the splits, but I still think it is a good theme for the year. Here are my goals, remembering that things change, always.

Spiritual:
This year I am taking a slightly different strategy towards my spiritual growth. Last year, my goal was to read through the Old Testament once and the New Testament and Psalms twice by following along with this website. This was very good in the fact that I did get into the Word most days. I also once again was able to see all of the amazing connections there are through the Word.

However, this year I want to be more focused. Each month I will either have a book or some theme for the month. This month's theme was inspired by a New Year's Eve service/singing that I attended. The person speaking talked about how although there are so many great things to look forward to in the new year that bad things will happen. Things that hurt. Things that drag us down. Things that make us want to give up and curse God like Job's friends. But..... We must remember. Remember all that God has brought us through. Remember the blessings that He has given us. Remember what He has done so that we might be able to be called sons and daughters of God. Remember. Don't be like the Israelites who had miracle after miracle after miracle and yet would turn away all of the time.

This month I am focusing on the word "remember" as it appears in the Scriptures. If you search the Bible you will find it appears over 200 times! I feel like this has already been speaking to me in so many ways.

I also want to do more of a Bible study with my husband. We used to do one together fairly regularly, but then school happened and it seems hard to fit in, and when we do fit it in, it feels forced. For right now, we are going to be taking classes at our church one night a week and I will use that for our time. I'm still brainstorming on how to fit this in as an effective way for us to grow together and not just be a chore.

I also want to keep a prayer/ Bible study journal. I just need to go out and by the most plain Jane notebook. For some reason I love writing in the cheapy spiral bound notebooks, and I actually don't like the dolled up diaries. Maybe its because I'm a teacher. Who knows.

Finally, I want to memorize 6 verses this year. I know that is very few, but I really want this to be an attainable goal. I'm still searching for my first one. I know that it will need to be something about trusting in God to give me strength, since right now teaching is wearing me down.

Personal:
I still want to make the goal to visit each set of grandparents at least once a month via any means (phone or in person). This was an amazing goal last year, and I'm afraid if I don't leave it on the list it won't happen.

Visit distant siblings at least twice a year at their homes. Right now while we are young and don't have kids, I think we should take more of an active role in keeping up relationships even if they are far away.

Have extended family over for dinner. Hopefully this will happen. I am scared half to death to cook a meal for other people, but I need to get over it.

Exercise three times a week. I have on permanent loan a really really really old treadmill. Seriously, it has no digital readings just a 4 ft long crank to make it go faster or slower. I can get it up to a fast speed walk, not quite a jog, so it is much easier for me to exercise even if I am not going overly crazy. I should be able to cram in 3 times a week.

Follow a housekeeping routine. I have been horrible at this recently. For a while I kept up with it, but now I am just surviving. I am thinking that for now I will focus on laundry on the weekends, bathrooms and kitchen maintenance on Monday/Tuesday and vacuuming/general house cleaning on Thursdays. Later I might break it down more, but for now I need to be vague.

Stretch often enough to where I can do splits all three ways again ( I miss that from my gymnastics days).

Buy a pedal for my loaned keyboard and practice playing again.

Education/ Career:

This sounds horrible, but reduce my responsibilities at work enough that I can get most everything done in 9 and a half hours all but one day a week.

Focus on strategies to deal with "joy busters," ie. other employees and occasionally students who don't even do this on purpose, but somehow just steal my joy.

Improve discipline in my classroom. Create a weekly schedule where the responsibility is more removed from me and is shouldered by more of the class.

Be less of a perfectionist. Worry less about what others think.

Continue reading education blogs. Continue organizing all materials.

Create a sub folder.

Read a book on small business.

Read a book on investing.

Read a book on discipline.

Financial:

Reach our "small goal" of money for our house by September. We are currently about 73% of the way there.

Reach 75% of our big goal by the end of the year. Right now we are tentatively planning to build in 2012. We might push it back to 2013, but we'll just have to see. If we do end up building in 2012 then this year we might actually start buying things for the house. That money even though it is spent, will be counted in our percentages of money saved towards building a home, since the items such as lumber are to be used on the home.

Continue giving to our local church and charities.

BIG GOAL:
To revisit these goals once a month on this blog and force myself to review and revise based on how we are doing.

Well there they are. I have many many other ideas especially for the summer, but this would be way to long if I wrote them all. Hopefully I will be able to get things under more control at school so that I can take back my time and be able to get some of these other things accomplished and write on here more often. I'll let you know how things go though, at least once a month (or at least that is my goal ).

2010 Goals Wrap-up!

2011-01-01T17:29:00.000-06:00

I am so thankful for this blog, if only as a way to keep me accountable to my goals. As you may remember, last year at about this time I wrote up my Goals for 2010. I have looked back at that post countless times. This year I might just print it off my future post on Goals for 2011 and post it near my fridge for easy access. Here's the wrap up on how each of my goals went:

Spiritual:

I did actually read through the entire old testament once and the new testament twice. This was quite the under taking and I have to admit that I would get very behind and then play catchup. Either way, it really kept me reading and studying the Word. I find that reading through the entire Bible helps me see the amazing way that everything is connected.
My husband and I took a class at our church last spring, but I have to admit that after a while we quit going. We didn't realize that it was a DVD series and it ended up causing more marital strife than what it was worth. I would end up staying to late at school and then we would be running late which would cause lots of stress for my husband. I only include these details because I want others to know that sometimes a good thing is not a good thing for everyone. Anyway, this last fall we did successfully go to a class that was wonderful for us. I had to rearrange my schedule at school, but then it worked and was a blessing!

Personal:

The BEST goal of last year was to visit with each set of grandparents at least once a month. This has completely changed our relationship with some of our grandparents. I know this is not doable for everyone, but I highly suggest investing this bit of time. I admit that we might have missed a visit to grandparent every now and then, but even though we missed some we still visited many times more than we did the year before. I can't even describe how wonderful fulfilling this goal has been!
I still have not had extended family over for dinner:(. Just called me a scared Sally!
I did read The Millionaire Next Door and would highly recommend it to anyone!
I didn't do such a good job at exercising twice a week. However, this summer I ran a lot and actually ran up to 3 miles without stopping! Woot woot!

Education:

I did not take any Master's classes. There are many reasons for this that I may write about at some point, main thing is its ok that I didn't take any.
I did read How the Brain Learns Mathematics. It was fairly interesting.
I don't know whether I have tried one new hands on lesson a week. This year I have been teaching new classes, working with other teachers who have taught these classes to create a new curriculum that takes into account the shifting order of classes for students, we are in the process of textbook adoption so there has been a lot involved with that, I have been improving my communication with parents, working on my classroom website, and also revamping how we assess our students. Furthermore, due to budget cuts my classes have nearly doubled in size which makes me wary of things that require a lot of moving around (not enough space!). Needless to say, all of that has been taking TONS of my time, so I always do my best to create "curious" lessons, but whether every week there is a "hands on" lesson, I don't know.
I did not take any online Spanish classes. I have taken quite a bit of Spanish, so a lot of the online stuff was a bit too low level. I've really been thinking about investing in a few used Rosetta Stone disks. We'll see though.

Blog:

I did not really do any of my blog goals. Somewhere through the year I realized that I was taking up husband/family/student time to write in this blog. I decided that I needed to reorganize my priorities, and so this blog is completely back burner. I can definitely see myself doing more with it in the future, but for now, it is really a way for me to be kept accountable:).

Financial:

My husband traded in his small truck and this really really old truck and finally bought his dream kind of new truck. It is exactly what he wanted. He had been looking for years for this truck (he was looking at this truck when we were dating!). We're lucky in that he does not have to drive very far to work, so this truck should last him a long time. It will be handy in the future when we build our house. Needless to say, we did not technically meet our financial goals:

2010 Small Goal: 89% Actual: 72% Started at: 48%
2010 Large Goal: 59.3% Actual: 48.4% Started at: 32%

Good news! Being the math person that I am I calculated the cost of the truck as a percent of the goal, and figured that we actually were saving at a higher rate per month than my goal rate. I consider this goal met!

Stay tuned for 2011 Goals!

30 Days of Giving: Day 6

2010-11-07T07:57:00.000-06:00

Today we went to Buffalo Wild Wings (with a coupon of course) before we went to my students' play. We had a nice waitress who seemed very "momish". Come to find out she had four children. I decided to write her an encouraging note on the receipt. Hopefully it lifted her day!

30 Days of Giving: Day 5

2010-11-07T07:55:00.000-06:00

On Fridays everyone just wants to get out of the school. I had just put in a large number of copies into the copy machine at the end of the day. Another teacher came in and I suggested that she interrupt my copies and put hers in. I feel bad because it wasn't much, but I figure that it is the little things that count!

30 Day Giving Challenge: Day 4

2010-11-07T07:52:00.000-06:00

Today I went to a bridal shower and of course brought a gift. I felt a bit silly because I bought a gift that was fairly practical off of their registry and a lot of the other ladies bought games and the like, but oh well. Marriage isn't all fun and games and occasionally you do need to open a can :).

30 Day Giving Challenge: Day 3

2010-11-03T20:12:00.000-05:00

Today is Day 3 of the thirty day giving challenge. We are 10% of the way done! Today I gave some of my time (ok lets be honest, probably too much of my time) to a struggling student who is a senior. This is where I am torn. One of the things I struggle with most is letting my job as a teacher overtake my marriage. My husband's love language is time, and so when I give time to students I feel that I am taking it away from him. I also gave some of my time (luckily I was driving-although that is probably not the safest) to help my younger brother with his college math.

I would like to expound more, but since I have already explained that my poor husband doesn't get that much time with me, I think I am going to go hang out with him a bit.

30 Day Giving Challenge- Day 2

2010-11-02T19:51:00.000-05:00

Seeing as today was day 2 in the challenge I was already trying to figure out what I was going to do to "give" for the day. I didn't figure that "giving" my opinion at the polls would count ;). Late in the day I had one of my old students stop by with a fundraisor. Although I am not a huge fan of fundraisors (I would rather just write a check for a certain amount and not be worried about picking out random fundraisor items), I decided that since it was November I would give in and buy a "cookie card" that allows me to go online and order 3lbs of cookie dough and supposedly gets me discounts. I was glad that I donated because my old students face just lit up. Who knows, maybe I will actually use that cookie dough over the holidays?

30 Days of Giving: Day 1

2010-11-01T19:50:00.001-05:00

Today is the first day of November which means that it is the beginning of the 30 Day Giving Challenge. I've decided that I am going to do my best to participate, even if my posts are not all that elaborate. Today I've decided to give a nice back scratch/rub to my husband. Poor guy, he doesn't get much attention during the school year. I would suggest you go and check out the challenge today.

A Long Time Coming

2010-09-27T19:12:00.000-05:00

Well, it has been a really long time since I have posted. Since then I have really started to analyze my priorities and realized that at that point, the little amount of free time I had I wanted to spend with my husband. I also went and considered shutting down this blog and creating a more "math teacherish" blog. When I thought of that I was a little sad because my faith and being frugal are very important to me and I didn't want to leave them out. My final decision has been to continue with this blog, but most definitely on the side and only for "kicks and giggles" and possibly for far away friends. Just a warning: it might contain a bit more math than the average person cares for.

So many things have happened since I last wrote. Family has come and gone. My husband and I have gotten baptized (finally!- long story). Lots of couponing over the summer, followed by practically no couponing now (Aldi's can fit better in my school schedule and still fits in the budget). Creating a "new to me" amazing teacher wardrobe all from Goodwill (seriously I have nice wool pants from Banana Republic, Gap, Limited, and Express for just a few dollars!). Creating a cleaning schedule (I used to have one before I was married, but somehow that went to the wayside after the ring went on the finger). Going to games to support my students. Reading and reading and reading lots and lots and lots of articles on teaching. Freezing corn, strawberries, blueberries, and wild raspberries.

My hope is to write down specifics on these accomplishments for days when I feel discouraged. Also, possibly I hope to possibly inspire some of you to try some new things or maybe try something again that didn't work for you in the past. In high school I tried to go to Goodwill and I could never find anything. However I have made out like a bandit this summer, and I am better dressed than I ever was before!

I am looking forward to sharing more with you in the future!

Free Best Life Buttery Spread

2010-06-23T14:41:00.001-05:00

I went to Meijer today and was able to pick up 6 FREE Best Life Buttery Spread. I also picked up a cup of Skinny Cow icecream for $0.25! Note: I only buy one newspaper a week, and I was able to accumulate 4 $1/1 coupons, plus 2 $1/1 printables. For more details go here.

Menu Plan Monday: 6/21-6/27

2010-06-21T10:17:00.000-05:00

It is the official beginning of summer! It has definitely arrived where I live. We have been enjoying the warm weather on the lake. I have been settling in to the new summer routine (vs. hectic schoolyear) and have learned that even though I now have a lot of time to cook, I dread it. I am definitely not a 1950's housewife.

Being a problem solver, I figured I needed to solve this problem of the "angst" that I felt every night when I had worked hard all day and still had dinner hanging over my head at night. Turning on the stove seems like the most awful thing to do when the house is heating up from the summer sun. I have found three possible solutions:
1. Cold meals- not easy to find suitable with a meat/potatoes husband
2. Crockpot/Homemade microwaveable dinner: lots of possibilities
3. Freezer meals- my personal favorite:)

This week I am back to freezer cooking. I am really looking forward to being able to just thaw something out and put it in the oven/microwave/crockpot/stove on any weeknight where I don't want to be "chained" to the kitchen. I really like being free to help my husband in the evening, so easy "heat and eat meals" are perfect for me. Here's my menu for the week:

Monday: Chicken, green pepper, mushroom BBQ kabobs (just brush BBQ sauce on the kabobs and grill until they are done)

Tuesday: Parmesan, Chicken, and Broccoli Noodles

Wednesday: Ground beef tacos

Thursday: Burgers on the grill

Friday: Chicken & Wild Rice Crockpot Casserole

Bonus Meals: Egg salad sandwiches/ cold meat sandwiches

**Freezer Meals**
Sausage Hash
Garlic Ranch Chicken
Pizza Calzones
Breaded Smothered Chicken

**Bible Study Snacks/Desserts**
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Fudgy Oreo Icecream Dessert - use homemade hot fudge recipe

For more menu ideas visit Organizing Junkie.

Frugal Fitness Friday: My Fitness Pal

2010-06-18T16:14:00.000-05:00

My Fitness Pal is the featured free fitness site of the week. This site is very similar to Sparkpeople because it provides an easy online free food and fitness diary. It makes it easy to keep track of everything you eat even when you go out to eat, because you can choose your meal from a list of common restaurants. It has nutrition facts on over 441,000 foods! It also has a physical activity diary where you can choose between a list of exercises and input personal data and it will compute an approximate amount of calories burned.

This site also encourages you to network with other people to keep you accountable. They have downloadable "badges" to place on your blog/emails/etc. that state how close you are to your goal. I don't know about you, but if I was trying to lose weight, having it broadcast to the world would probably motivate me.

The most interesting tool that this site has to offer is its free iPhone application. This way if you are out and about all day, you could easily document what you have eaten or what physical activity you have completed. That way as you contemplate getting that gigantic piece of chocolate cake, you could see whether that is an ok choice for the day, or not.

Also remember, if you are exercising to lose weight, help feed the needy by recording your pledge online. Read about it here.

Feel free to visit my past posts reviewing these free fitness websites:
Map my Run
Couch to 5k
Yoga Today
Livestrong
Women Workout Routines
My FitnessPal
Military Workouts
Exercise TV
SparkPeople

Worth Reading: One Pretty Thing

2010-06-15T12:01:00.000-05:00

Last week I found this website (One Pretty Thing) while surfing the web. It is an amazing website. Each day it give you a round up of the best DIY ideas of the day and also features a round up for a specific topic. After following it for a few days, I am thoroughly impressed. I suggest you head on over, since it is worth reading.

Menu Plan Monday: 6/14-6/20

2010-06-14T07:48:00.000-05:00

This week is VBS at my parents' church. They have programs for adults and children in the evening, so we will be busy most nights, which means quick meals! Also, things are heating up here, so most of the choices for the week shouldn't heat up my kitchen too much.

Monday: Lunch: Out to lunch with family
     Dinner: Grilled Cheese, Chips, Dill Pickles
Tuesday: Lunch: Leftovers from last week
      Dinner: BBQ Slow Cooker Chicken Breast (just throw he chicken into a crock pot and pour on some BBQ sauce and put it on low for a while), Broccoli, Cut up Apples
Wednesday: Lunch:
     Dinner: Leftover Chicken Quesdillas, Strawberry Smoothies
Thursday: Lunch: Black Bean and Corn Quesadillas
     Dinner: Grilled Moza-Chicken Sandwiches, fresh fruit and veggies
Bonus Meals: Homemade Pizza, Grilled Hot Dogs and Hamburgers

For more menu plan ideas, visit Organizing Junkie.

Frugal Fitness Friday: Map My Run

2010-06-11T13:23:00.001-05:00

Last week I brought to you the Couch to 5k program online. You can also go directly to the program by this link. This program helps you go from sitting on the couch to being able to run 5k in 9 weeks. If you are feeling stuck, because you don't know how far you are running currently, fear not, I have found a new online fitness freebie.

Map my Run is free program that allows you to "draw" the route that you take when running, walking, biking, etc. to determine the distance travelled. It will make note of mile markers (how far you have until you have gone 1 mile, 2 miles, etc.). It allows you to choose "up and back" and "loop". They also have a workout calculator which will determine your speed, calories burned, and bmi. They are in the process of testing a new format- which is the beta site. If you create a free account, you can save your routes and join "teams".

I have used this site this summer. I live in the country, so there is not a lot of choices for routes, but I really like knowing how far I have run. It really helps me push myself to go a little bit farther each day. The only draw back is that you have to sit through a 30 sec ad when you first visit the site.

If you are running to lose weight, help feed the needy by recording your pledge online. Read about it here.

Feel free to visit my past posts reviewing these free fitness websites:
Couch to 5k
Yoga Today
Livestrong
Women Workout Routines
My FitnessPal
Military Workouts
Exercise TV
SparkPeople

Worth Reading Round Up 6/11

2010-06-11T08:43:00.000-05:00

I just ran across two really great articles.

A Thrifty Mom just posted Get Out of Debt Part 1 of 3. It describes how they focused on staying out of debt when they got married and instead tried to focus on the things that really matter.

The Simple Dollar posted Make Each Day your Masterpiece. It describes looking at life in a way that you really try and make each day/dollar count.

Enjoy!

Free Subscription to Kiplinger's Personal Finance

2010-06-11T07:45:00.000-05:00

Go here to sign up for a free subscription to Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine.

Thanks, Freebie Blogger!

New Market Coupon Match ups: 6/7-6/13

2010-06-10T19:28:00.000-05:00

New Market's is having a Moonlight Madness Sale on Friday from 4pm-10pm. They will have Dean's Gallon Milk $0.99 with $25 purchase. This is not a triple coupon week, which means they will double coupons to $0.50.

Kellogg's Cereals 12.2-20oz - $1.88
Use $1/2 printable
Final Price: $1.38 each when you buy two

Keebler Wheatables 8.5oz - $2
Use $1.50/1 printable
Final Price: $0.50

Angel Soft BAth Tissue 12 Dble Rolls - $4.99
$0.50/1 printable doubled
Final Price: $3.99

Weight Watchers Smart Ones Entrees 8-11oz - $2
Use $1/5 printable
Final Price: $1.80 each when you buy five

Healthy Life Dieter's Dream Bread 16 oz $1.50
Use $0.25/1 doubled from the Smart Source 5/23 Insert
Final Price: $1

I Can't Believe It's Not Butter (8 oz spray or 15oz pkg) - $2.48
Use $0.75/2 printable
Final Price: $2.11 when you buy two

Land O Frost Premium Lunchmeat 16oz - $3.50
Use $1/1 printable
Final Price: $2.50

Eckrich Smoked or Polish Sausage 14-16oz - $3
Use $0.55/1 from the 05/09/2010 SmartSource Insert
Final Price: $2.45

Hot Pockets, Lean Pockets, or Croissants 8-10oz - $2
Use $1/3 from the 4/25/2010 RedPlum Insert
Final Price: $1.67 when you buy 3

Daisy Sour Cream 16oz - $2
Use $0.50/1 printable doubled
Final Price: $1

Shedd's Country Crock Spread 45oz - $3
Use $0.40/1 printable doubled
Final Price: $2.20

Nestle Drumsticks Lil' Drums 10pk - $3.99
Use $1/1 printable
Final Price: $2.99

Bar S Hot Dogs 16oz - $1
Use $1/2 from the 05/16/2010 RedPlum Insert
Final Price: $0.50 each when you buy two

Yoplait GoGurt 18oz - $2.50
Use $1.10/1 printable
Final Price: $1.40

Hunt's Ketchup 24oz - $1.25
Use $0.20/1 doubled from the 5/16/2010 SmartSource Insert
Final Price: $0.85

General Mills Cereal 8.7-14oz - $2.50
Use $1.50/2 printable
Final Price: $1.75 each when you buy two

Hershey's Syrup 24-26oz - $2
Use $1/2 from the 5/23/2010 SmartSource Insert
Final Price: $1.50 each when you buy two

Lawry's Marinades 12oz - $3
Use $0.50/1 printable doubled
Final Price: $2

French's Mustard 20oz - $1.50
Use $0.50/1 printable doubled
Final Price: $0.50

Thrifty Thursday: Cheap Sunscreen at CVS

2010-06-10T14:15:00.001-05:00

During the summer my husband and I go out on the lake with his family a lot. We go through a lot of sunscreen. This week at CVS, if you buy two Coppertone Sunscreens at $10.49 each, you get back $10 ECB. That made each bottle $5.50 each.

I sweetened the deal by using two $1/1 coupon printables (I got it off of coupons.com, but I believe that it is no longer there). Now the final price: $4.50 each.

I used the 2 ECB's that are printing at the in store scanners that only last 3 days. New final price: $3.50 each.

I used a $5/$15 coupon that had printed on a receipt that expired that day. New final price: $1 each!!!

I ended up picking up the bag of Skittles for my husband, so that I could use some of my other ECB's. I'm so excited about this deal, because the spray kind of sunscreen is absolutely wonderful because my husband always wants me to put on his sunscreen so that he won't miss a spot (he had a bad experience with this in the past). The spray kind really speeds up the process! So if you are ever wondering whether it is worth reading through all of the CVS deals each week, I and many others would definitely say yes!

For more thrifty ideas visit Coupon Teacher.

$10/$20 Smokey Bones Coupon

2010-06-09T10:29:00.000-05:00

Go here to print a coupon from $10 off $20 at Smokey Bones. I have used this coupon before, and my husband and I had a great date night. We had tons of food leftover and were able to eat out someplace nice:).

Thanks, Money Saving Mom!

Restaurant.com Gift Certificates 80% off !

2010-06-08T13:27:00.000-05:00

It's not even the end of the month and Restaurant.com has their gift certificates 80% off! That makes the $25 gift certificates $2 and the $10 gift certificates only $0.80! I have used these for date nights in the past and they worked perfect! Make sure that you read all of the fine print though.

Free Icecream at CVS!

2010-06-08T12:46:00.000-05:00

According to Money Saving Mom, CVS has Skinny Cow icecream on sale for $1 this week. Go here to print off a $1/1 coupon to get a free pint of icecream! I'm planning on going tomorrow because that is when my store restocks everything. If you are new to CVSing and get frustrated because all of the free stuff is gone, I highly recommend asking when your store restocks everything. It has saved me lots of trips now that I mainly go on "restock day."

Delayed- Menu Plan Monday: 6/7-6-12

2010-06-07T18:42:00.000-05:00

Well, Blogger has been down for most of today, so here is my "better late than never:)" menu plan. During the summer I plan on testing out on a small scale some meatless meals for my lunch. My hope is that I will be able to find at least a handful of recipes that my husband might not notice are meatless. I am not a vegetarian, but I think that just cutting out one dinner with meat would cut down on our grocery bill, and if done right, be very good for our hearts!

I also did not include sides this week. We were given a lot of leftover fruits and vegetables from my brother's graduation party, so we will mainly be eating those up before they go bad.

Monday:
    Lunch: Salad topped with grilled chicken and cherry tomatoes (see picture above:) )
    Dinner: Leftover pulled pork sandwiches from my brother's graduation

Tuesday:
    Lunch: Egg Salad Sandwiches
    Dinner: Pizzeria Chicken Packets - from Pat & Betty's No-Fuss Cooking

Wednesday:
    Lunch: Spaghetti with Maranara
    Dinner: Slow Cooker Chicken Fajitas - from The $5 Dinner Mom Cookbook

Thursday:
    Lunch: Leftovers
    Dinner: BLT's

Bonus Meals (to be made sometime over the weekend): Broccoli, Rice, and Chicken Bake; Breakfast for dinner

For more menu planning ideas, visit Organizing Junkie.

Frugal Fitness Friday: Couch to 5k

2010-06-04T02:00:00.004-05:00

It's summer, which means it is swimsuit season. If you're not motivated yet, think of how good exercise will be for your heart. Now that it is so nice out, it seems silly to stay in to exercise. If you are just as ready to go out as I am, visit the Couch to 5k program online. You can also go directly to the program by this link.

This program is very simple and easy to follow. By the end of the 9 week program you should be able to run a 5k in 30 minutes or less! I'm planning on using this program for my cardio a few days a week during the summer and I hope that you'll join me.

Highlights: There are tons of helpful links at the bottom of this page! I am planning on downloading the free Christian music with verbal cues of when to run/jog/walk onto my mp3 player (that is if I can find my chord).

If you are running to lose weight, help feed the needy by recording your pledge online. Read about it here.

If you're not a running fan, feel free to visit my past posts reviewing these free fitness websites:
Yoga Today
Livestrong
Women Workout Routines
My FitnessPal
Military Workouts
Exercise TV
SparkPeople

New Market Matchups: 5/31-6/6

2010-06-02T20:53:00.000-05:00

This week is Triple Coupon Week at New Markets. Remember that with New Market's current coupon policy they will triple to $0.50 and that is it. New Markets generally have higher prices, but if you live far away from other stores, it still might be cheaper to go there than to drive a long way. Here are the best deals that I see this week:

French's Mustard 20 oz - $1.50
Use $0.50/1 tripled printable
Final Cost: FREE!

Bar S Bologna or Hot Dogs 16 oz- $1
Use $1/2 from the RedPlum 5/16 insert
Final Price: $0.50 each when you buy 2

Hunt's Ketchup 24 oz- $1
Use $0.20/1 tripled from the SmartSource 5/16 insert
Final Price: $0.40 each

Banquet Value Meals 6.6-12 oz- $1
Use $1.50/4 printable
Final Price: $0.63 each when you buy four

Chef Boyardee Canned Pasta 14.5-15 oz- $1
Use $1.50/4 printable
Final Price: $0.63 each when you buy four

Post Cereals 11-14.5 oz- $1.99
Use $1/2 from the 05/16/2010 SmartSource Insert
Final Price: $1.49 when you buy two

Land O Frost Premium Lunchmeat 16 oz- $3.50
Use $1/1 printable
Final Price: $2.50 each

Tyson Anytizers 18-32 oz- $6.99
Use $1/1 from the 3/7/2010 SmartSource Insert
Final Price: $5.99

Daisy Cottage Cheese 16 oz- $2
Use $.45/1 tripled from the 5/2/2010 SmartSource Insert
Use $.65/1 printable
Final Price: $0.65 - $1.35

Daisy Sour Cream 16 oz- $2
Use $0.50/1 tripled printable
Final Price: $0.50

Lawry's Marinade 12 oz- $3
$0.50/1 tripled printable
Final Price: $1.50

I used Money Saving Mom's coupon database to help compile this week's deals!

New Market Updated Coupon Policy

2010-06-02T19:50:00.000-05:00

New Market's coupon policy has changed so that they can participate in Coca-Cola deals. The main change is that during the Triple Coupon period there won't be "double to a dollar" situations anymore. Here is New Market's new coupon policy:

We will gladly double manufacturers’ coupons everyday up to 50 ¢.
We will gladly accept coupons over .50 at the face value.
We will gladly accept internet coupons.
We will gladly accept duplicate manufacturers’ coupons per the purchase requirement at face value.
We will gladly accept manufacturers’ coupons for beer, wine, or tobacco products at face value.
We will gladly triple manufacturers’ coupons up to 50 ¢ during any advertised triple coupon period. 25¢ coupons are worth 75¢, 45¢ coupons are worth $1.35, and 50¢ coupons are worth $1.50.
Catalina coupons can be redeemed at face value.
Catalina coupons may not be used with a vendor coupon or any other checkout coupon for the same item.

School's out for Summer!

2010-06-02T19:43:00.000-05:00

It's official. Today was the last day of my first year of teaching. It has been an exciting and even emotional ride as I went from a baby teacher (the mistakes I made on my first day, still make me shake my head) to where I am at now (maybe a toddler teacher?). I have learned from both the good days and the bad. I have so many hopes for next year. I might even start a blog about my teaching. For the moment I am just enjoying other high school math teacher blogs. But, we'll just have to see how everything goes.

To answer the question that has been the most popular question of the past few weeks, I am technically doing "nothing" this summer. Normally I have a summer job at a local daycare. My husband and I both decided that it would be best for me not to take the job again this summer. My original plan had me taking classes to help me earn my Master's in Math, however due to the fact that my job is a long drive north and the closest university that offers it is a long drive south, it will not work unless I am able to get a teaching job closer to home. They only offer three of the eleven classes needed during the summer, so I would be forced to make the impossible drive during the school year. Online options are off the table for the moment, because each option is approximately double to triple the cost of the local university.

Since I will have more time on my hands this summer I have created many different lists in excel, to keep me on track and off of my fanny during the day. I hope to blog about many of my summer projects. There are sooo many that my husband just rolls his eyes. I'm also looking forward to finding more freebies, and posting more deals. I'm looking forward to sharing all the details with you in the days ahead!

Free OPI Nail Polish

2010-05-27T21:21:00.000-05:00

Go here to print off a coupon for a free bottle of Nicole by OPI nail polish at any participating Ulta. My husband once bought me a pedicure- I think it was for my birthday, and they used OPI nail polish. That stuff is absolutely amazing! It didn't really chip. Now you have to realize that the stuff that I normally use is really old bottles that were extremely cheap to begin with, but I have to say that I am really excited about this coupon!

Also, seventeen runs a decent amount of these type of free deals and they've always worked for me. I've scored a free tank top in the past, so it's worth printing off and bringing to the store.

Free Benjamin Moore Paint Sample

2010-05-27T20:29:00.000-05:00

From now until June 30, participating Benjamin Moore stores are offering 2oz color samples when you bring in this printable coupon. If you are anything like me, you have a lot of projects that this sample will be perfect, such as adding accents to a lamp, coffee table, etc.
Thanks, Freebie Blogger!

$25 Restaurant.com Gift Certificates for $2

2010-05-27T20:13:00.000-05:00

It's the nearing the end of the month which means Restaurant.com has cut their $25 gift certificates down to only $2! Now would be a great time to buy some to use next month for a Father's Day dinner. Just make sure that you read all of the fine print before you buy! Go here to check out this great deal.

Free Photo Magnet

2010-05-27T20:03:00.001-05:00

Right now Kodak Gallery is offering a free photo magnet when you use the code FREEMAGNET. This could be a great small item to add to a graduate's gift. You could have some type of inspiring quote or something as fun as "happiness is painted toenails."

Menu Plan Monday: 5/23-5/29

2010-05-23T20:32:00.000-05:00

Today we went to CVS (made $$ off of the Gillette Body Washes) and Aldi's. It was definitely my lucky day. They had marked down ($2 off) each package of boneless skinless chicken breasts. My husband laughed as I whipped out my cell phone to do the math to determine the price per pound. That's what you get when you are married to a math teacher/frugalista. We ended up buying nine packages (close to 18 lbs)of chicken because the price averaged out to be about $1.38/lb (the packages that weighed less cost slightly less per pound and the package that were heavier cost slightly more per pound- hence the average).

There was a time when I would have only bought a few packages because I would not have wanted to spend so much on one trip. However, I now completely abide by the stockpiling principle. If something is on a great sale that I use a lot (chicken, hamburger, peas, etc.) I will buy a ridiculous amount. It might be "expensive" that one week, but the price overall is great. My first experience with this was finding 93/7 hamburger marked down to only $2 package. I bought ten packages, which I thought was a lot then. However, now I would have bought out that section because after I used that I up I had to buy much more expensive hamburger. I have never seen that high percentage meat on sale for much lower than $3.

Moral of the Story: Strike while the iron is hot (as my mother would say). In other words, take full advantage of great deals (while of course keeping an eye on the budget).

The menu this week was pretty much designed by my husband (as was last week's which I didn't get around to posting). This is the end of the year and I have been pretty much living at the school. My husband has been taking care of much of the cooking (and I do the clean up:) ). Here's what he chose for the week:

Monday: Hamburgers on the grill, tater tots, carrots and dip

Tuesday: Chicken fajitas, strawberry smoothies

Wednesday: Spaghetti, salad, bread

Thursday: Grilled cheese, clementines, apples with peanut butter

For more menu plan ideas, visit Organizing Junkie.

Family Christian Bookstores Deals

2010-05-16T21:00:00.000-05:00

If you have a lot of graduations coming up, giving an encouraging book or CD can mean a lot to a graduate. Right now Family Christian Bookstores is running a few deals that could help with the upcoming graduation parties.

Save up to 75% at FamilyChristian.com's Clearance Center.

25% Off Any Regular Priced Item or 10% Off Any Sale Item - Enter Code 1284508 at Checkout

Receive $10 Off Your Purchase Of $65 Or More

Family Christian Stores - Buy One Item, Get One Item 50% Off
- Enter Code 1256775 At Checkout

Top 20 Bestselling titles in music just $13.97 or less at FamilyChristian.com.

Irregular Apron Sale!

2010-05-16T20:43:00.000-05:00

I am always interested in anything that will make me feel better in the kitchen. Right now Flirty Aprons is having an Irregular Apron Sale - $12.99, while supplies last (they are guessing it will last max of a week). So if you are on the market for an apron or could give one as a gift, then now's a great time to look for one! I have never seen them this cheap!

Frugal Flop: New Market Coupon Policy Print-Out

2010-05-15T15:27:00.000-05:00

New Markets are running their triple coupon sale this week. I just went today and I was in a slight hurry. Never plan on couponing in a hurry. I quickly scanned through the store looking for items that would match up with coupons and get a better deal than Aldi's. I only found a few items that were worth picking up because I believe they might have raised their prices even higher now that it is getting close to the start of "laker season" (lots of vacationers will be arriving to go to their lake homes).

I went through the checkout and noticed that the cashier was manually putting in every single coupon. There were no "bonus coupons" popping up. In fact on two occasions it said "bonus coupon suppressed". I was a bit upset, but I tried to stay calm as I let the cashier know that it did not double or triple my coupons. She says that "it will only double or triple $0.50 coupons." That doesn't make sense. Either it doubles at $0.50 or it triples, not both. I repeat that I was sure that they double to $1 and triple to $0.50, so she then asks the other cashier who says that my cashier is correct. Well, at that point I just decided that I just wasn't in the mood to be the "pushy customer", so I paid and left.

Now that I am home and can look through my receipt I can tell that none of my coupons doubled or tripled. I also looked through my past emails and pulled up the email sent to me by the manager of the Syracuse store which states:

Syracuse Coupon Policy:

Valid vendor coupons will double up to $.50, with a maximum value of $1.00.
During the specified triple coupon period, valid vendor coupons will triple up to $.50, with a maximum value of $1.50.
During the specified triple coupon period, valid vendor coupons with face value between $.51 and $1.00 will double, with a maximum value of $2.00.
One additional vendor coupon may be used per item that meets the purchase requirements and has a valid date. These additional coupons will be redeemed at face value.
In-store coupons and any vendor coupon that states “Not To Be Doubled” will be redeemed at face value.
Vendor coupons for beer, wine, or tobacco products will be redeemed at face value.
Catalina coupons may not be used until the next transaction.
Catalina coupons will be redeemed for face value only.
Catalina coupons may not be used with a vendor coupon or any other checkout coupon for the same item.
We will gladly accept internet or computer generated coupons.

Therefore, I have now printed this policy and will carry it with me any time I go to that store. I lost over $5 from not getting the doubles and triples today, and I am also trying to decide whether to go back and ask for a refund. I am not sure whether that is worth my time though.

Moral of the story: Have a printed copy of the store's coupon policy at all times. It can save you lots of time, $$, and mainly stress from dealing with uncooperative cashiers.

Have you ever had difficulty at the register with double/triple coupons at grocery stores? Tell us about it in the comments section.

Incredible CVS trip!

2010-05-12T21:45:00.000-05:00

In the middle of this crazy end of the school year rush, I actually had a bit of time tonight. I decided after seeing Money Saving Mom and Freebie Blogger's amazing CVS line up this week that it would be worth my time to go over to CVS and I am so glad that I did. This was the first time that I actually made more than a few cents from my transactions. The final tally for the trip:

Before Coupons: a little over $32 (with tax)
After Coupons and $11 Extra Care Bucks : $3.76
Total ECB's earned: $17!!!!!

Items purchased: Carefree liners, Bayer aspirin, 2 Right Guard deoderant, 2 Crest toothpaste, Kotex U tampons, Dove Dark Chocolate bar, 3 Hershey Candy Bars

Side-note: I know that many of you use the envelope system and only use cash. I think that is great. Someday we hope to switch to that. However, now is not the time to push that on my husband. We currently use our Discover card for almost everything (and pay it off every month of course!). If you happen to use Discover, use your rewards to get CVS gift cards. I buy my newspapers using that card (and get a ECB every four times for using my green bag tag), and I haven't paid a cent for any of my CVS purchases in ages (not that I spend more than a few dollars).

Showers of Babies (as opposed to baby showers)

2010-05-11T20:41:00.000-05:00

Whew! Three babies in five days! That's got to be a record. They have been keeping everyone busy! We've been able to visit all but one of them which we are desperately trying to find time to travel to meet. They have to be about the most loved babies in the world :).

Other news, there are three weeks of school left (students' last day is June 1), which means sadly that my absolutely pitiful lack of any posts of substance will continue until the end of the school year. Right now my life is filled to the brim with end of the school year happenings. However, I have such great hopes for things outside of school this summer like finally getting to writing all of my ideas for posts, but we'll have to see what happens. My mind has been percolating over what to do for the $20 challenge.......

Free Book: The Radical Question

2010-05-07T06:59:00.000-05:00

I have the day off today, yippee! Therefore, I have been catching up on printing coupons, clipping coupons, organizing my coupons, hopefully later cleaning my house, cvsing and more. I had hoped to go garage saling, but the weather is just awful.

I just found out about that if you go here you can sign up for a free copy of The Radical Question by David Platt. You will have to sign up for their mailing list and they send you an email that you must respond to in order to receive the copy. This offer expires May 9.

Thanks, Empowering Mommy!

Menu Plan Monday: 4/25-4/30

2010-04-26T20:37:00.000-05:00

Babies, babies, and more babies! It's official that there is only one more to go! We will be traveling a lot, plus there are birthdays and anniversaries, which means very little cooking for me. I have no idea how much I'll be blogging between now and the end of school (5.5 weeks and counting!). Here is the plan for the week:
Monday:
Spaghetti (with cottage cheese and meat sauce), salad, strawberry shakes (my husband makes amazing ones)

Tuesday:
Armsteak with carrots/onions (we are actually going to finally make that hunk of meat that has been in our freezer for months), potatoes

Wednesday:
Leftovers

Thursday:
Awards banquet (no cooking!)

Weekend:
Grilled steaks (given to us by family, thanks!), steamed broccoli with garlic, pineapple

For more ideas, visit Organizing Junkie.

The Importance of Lists

2010-04-14T21:31:00.001-05:00

I am a list person (it's ok if you're not-my husband isn't and still gets tons done), and I get it rightly by my mom. I used to sit and watch her write these gigantic lists on the weekend full of things that I knew that she would never get to and would wonder why she did it. Now I do the same thing and I understand completely. Seriously, I do.

When I get to my school each morning I write down on a piece of paper most of the things that I need to do, even though they are pretty much the same tasks each day. Do you know why I do this? Because of days like yesterday, when I was so excited about a project that I was preparing for my Geometry students which required me going out to the football field during my prep period, that I completely forgot that we were on a shortened schedule that day and that I had yet to write up all of my notes on the overhead. Luckily I came in before the bell rang to release the kids to come to my class. Who knows what would have happened if I had still been outside!

I also write lists to remember the "weird things." You know what I'm talking about. The random request by someone to show them how to do __________, or to send them directions to _____, or to please drop off ________. In others words, tasks that would rarely ever be on your list.

My husband has been incredible by nicely (that is the key) keeping me on task and remembering first things first. He helps remind me to prioritize my lists. I never used to do that because I would just stay up until all hours of the night to get things done, but now that would not work.

This summer I have completely and utterly off. I have already started making my lists for the summer, so that I won't forget that the windows need to be washed (my husband noticed this, and I honestly don't think I would notice that windows are dirty until I could no longer see through them), the doors need to be painted, the ceiling in the bathroom needs to be touched up, I have a photo project I want to do, stacks of books to read, more Spanish to learn, a garden to keep, updates to all lesson plans, family to visit, etc.

If you are a teacher I highly suggest making an excel spreadsheet for your goals for the summer. I have broken my lists down my type -school, home, business, volunteer. I plan on assigning each of my goals to different weeks. I only have 10 weeks, so I have to make the most of it!

If you are wondering how I got on this slightly boring, and yet important to me topic go here to read an interesting article that I found (that I might have shown to my husband to show that I am not the only weird list person)about the worth of lists- to some people.

$20 Challenge!

2010-04-13T21:12:00.001-05:00

Money Saving Mom has found an absolutely fabulous blog Life as I See It that includes a post about a $20 challenge between her and her husband. In summary they both have $20 that they can use to grow and make money throughout one year (they can also sell things). At the end of the year they will see who has made the most money. I think this is such a fabulous way to force yourself to think outside of the box! I have kind of gotten into a rut with just focusing on saving and not thinking so much about creative ways to grow my money.

I plan on taking this challenge starting in the summer to help push me a bit(possibly hitting up some garage sales!). Go to her blog to join in on the fun!

Free Event Season Grand Opening!

2010-04-13T20:46:00.000-05:00

Tonight was the official beginning of free event season. We went to our county's Taste of Ag. There are barns, barns, and more barns full of all kinds of booths, some with information, many with animals, and few with my absolute favorite..... freebies!

The night began with some rousing Ag Olympics, which included dressing up a piglet in baby's clothes. Who needs to pay anything to be entertained when you can watch four groups of high schoolers try to clothe a baby pig who is of course not happy about it and it showing it by wiggling and making a mess (if you know what I mean).

This was then followed by a children's peddle pull. It was so much fun to watch the little kids try so hard to peddle a tractor down the strip. It was amazing how they had rigged up a pull cart just like a real one for the kids!

The barns were full of free reusable shopping bags, seedlings (tomato, green pepper, cabbage, and broccoli), notepads, pencils, coloring books and crafts for children, balloons, meat samples, cheese samples, popcorn, and even yummy frozen yogurt!

I enjoyed tonight so much, I'm looking forward to the rest of spring and summer full of free events in all of the parks near us!

Menu Plan Monday (or Tuesday;)

2010-04-13T19:54:00.002-05:00

Whew! I'm back after a fabulous vacation. It was really wonderful and I have to say that I relaxed so much that by the end of the week I was ready to come home and get to work! This spring/summer is going to be full of weeks that will be a bit abnormal to plan meals for, since our plans could change daily. My husband is still in the middle of doing a remodel job for my parents, so some nights we eat with them. There have also been a significant amount of other family events and there will be many more (did I mention I'll be an aunt three times over in the next few weeks?!). Furthermore, whether good or bad, I have been really digging deep into my teaching now that I am much more comfortable with my job. Each day I spend a significant amount of time researching for my lessons which leaves me coming home a bit later.

Over the next few weeks I am going to try to find some really tasty, at least somewhat healthy, easy, quick, and of course cheap homemade meal recipes. If you have any that fit in those categories (I know I'm asking for a lot) please respond! I love to try new things.

Here's the plan for this week:
Monday: Grilled out hotdogs on whole wheat (on sale!) buns, carrots, strawberry shakes

Tuesday: Ham rolls, salads, bread

Wednesday: Rotini with meaty tomato sauce (and some sneaky spinach, hopefully my husband won't notice), broccoli

Thursday: Pizza bread or Crockpot arm steak, salads, cut up apples

For more menu plan ideas, visit Organizing Junkie.

Vacaciones!- Vacation!

2010-04-05T10:07:00.000-05:00

This is a little late, but I have been so busy that I could not write. I will not be writing for the remainder of the week because I am with family on vacation! If you need inspiration visit any of my favorite blogs (they're on my side bar). Enjoy the week!

Menu Plan Monday: 3/28-4/1

2010-03-29T21:06:00.000-05:00

This week we are leaving to go on a trip for spring break with the in-laws, so I'm trying to focus on using up our perishables for the week and not create more leftovers. It's going to be a busy week getting prepared for the trip and keeping up with all of my classes (I ask myself again, why did I plan quizzes and tests for the day before break?).
Monday: Pork chops (thawed), mashed potatoes, salad, carrots/dip

Tuesday: Spaghetti, fresh fruit/veggies

Wednesday: Quesadillas, apples/peanut butter

Thursday: we're on our way!

New Market $.99/lb Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast!

2010-03-25T07:11:00.001-05:00

Just a quick reminder to those of you around a New Market (mainly Indiana people). Today is the Meat Madness sale and they are running boneless skinless chicken breast for only $0.99/lb!

Menu Plan Monday: 3/21-3/27

2010-03-23T20:53:00.000-05:00

Ooops! This is a bit late getting posted. This week I looked through some of the cookbooks that I had been given and looked online a bit and just felt uninspired. Everything either required way to many ingredients (which is a problem for those who are making just enough for two) or sounded way too bland.

I was working on this at the table and ~~complaining~~ explaining to my husband my difficulty with this when he said he would help me. He promptly picked up a cookbook flipped through a couple of pages and said, "This looks good. How about this?"

I looked at the recipe and it was different - stirfry in a taco essentially. It was something that I would have never tried, but because he chose it I figured we might as well try it, especially since we already had almost all of the ingredients. I made it up tonight (with some modifications of course- I didn't have plum sauce or teriyaki sauce, so I used some Asian Sesame marinade and soy sauce). It turned out to be really pretty tasty. It was soooooo easy. I thawed out some grilled pork chops, cut them up and "stir fryed" them in a pan with some of the marinade, soy sauce, canola oil, and a bit of sesame oil. Once the meat was heated I added in the stirfry veggies and kept it on the stove for a few more minutes until the veggies were all cooked.

Finally we put that filling in warmed up taco shells and had a yummy and easy dinner!

Here was the plan for the week:

Monday: eat with family

Tuesday: Stir fry tacos

Wednesday: Hamburgers on the grill (first time this season!), cut up fresh fruit/veggies

Thursday: Bean/rice burritos (I've never made them without meat, so we'll see how it goes)

Weekend: Crockpot Beef Arm Steak/Potatoes/Carrots/Onions

For more menu planning ideas, visit Orgjunkie.com.

Gratituesday: Glimmers of Hope

2010-03-16T21:25:00.000-05:00

This week I am thankful for a glimmer of hope. The recession has hit the schools in the form of budget cuts. Our school has severe cuts to deal with in the next two years. All first and second year teachers were called in to let us know that we could all be part of the "cut", but that we might not be. We just had to wait and see. As a math teacher my job is fairly safe, but not entirely safe.

I have been very open to the fact that I could get cut. I have great faith that I will find something somewhere. However, this morning I got news that leaves me pretty hopeful that I will still have this position next year. I think I will still be receiving a RIF paper right before spring break, but hopefully come May I will be receiving a letter saying that they are hiring me back for another year.

As open as I am to moving to where ever life takes me, I do like the idea of being able to work with some of my students next year. Also, my job really helps us make steps forward on our house savings.

So until next week, I am happy with my glimmer of hope.

Menu Plan Monday: 3/14-3/20

2010-03-15T18:52:00.000-05:00

I have decided that I don't really think that life is ever going to slow down. Maybe when I'm 70 I guess. Until then I am running around like a chicken with its head cut off trying to help with my parents' renovation, pi day celebrations, struggling Algebra II and Geometry students, school meetings, buying a truck* (more on that later), and just trying to keep up with laundry and such. This week I have four possible meals planned based mainly off of stuff that we had on hand.

Monday: Tacos, cut up apples

Tuesday: Sausage rolls (this is a first time try on this recipe), peas, peaches

Wednesday: Pork Asian Tacos (this is from Fast Fix family food cookbook given to me-also a first try)

Thursday: Crockpot Arm Roast with potatoes, carrots, and onions

For more menu ideas visit Organizing Junkie.

Frugal Fitness: Free Pedometer

2010-03-10T17:06:00.000-06:00

(picture by Kitchen Table Chat)

I happen to be a huge fan of getting things for free that help me be fit. It is hard enough for me to get off of the couch some nights, but to have to get off the couch to use something that actually cost me money, now that my friends, would be dreadful. Freebie Blogger had posted that you can now go here to get a free pedometer and Keep Moving DVD from Tylenol. I have admit I was a bit skeptical, but then I found Kitchen Table Chat's blog about receiving this same freebie a year ago, so I think it's legit.

Thanks Freebie Blogger!

Gratituesday: Glad to be back!

2010-03-09T21:10:00.000-06:00

Until yesterday, it had been almost two weeks since I had been able to get on here and write anything other than a quick update. When life was busy at the beginning of those two weeks, I knew blogging had to go on the back burner compared to my husband and my students and my parents. However, after that I managed to mess up my computer by trying to install a better version of Windows which created an even longer lull in my writing.

During my time away from blogging I learned a few things about what this blog does to help me. First, it holds me accountable. Last week, while I was away from blogging I never got around to exercising even once. My husband and I are helping my parents do some renovations so we were gone a lot of evenings, and I didn't get home until late due to all of the pressure to successfully complete all of my old students' grades and to begin the new trimester in an amazing way.

Each night I would get home late and was too tired to want to exercise. I would think to myself, get up off of this couch, go upstairs, exercise and stick to your goals. Until this blog, I never really paid a lot of attention to my new year's resolutions. But now I can easily go back and remind myself of where I wanted to be, and so these goals are now so ingrained in me that they "nag" me even when I am away from blogging.

I also did not create a menu plan last week. I wrote a bit about this experience in my menu plan for this week. For some reason, adding the chaos of not knowing what was for dinner on top of everything else, just made the evenings much more stressful. I laugh because just a year or two ago I would have thought that a person who can't handle an evening with an unplanned dinner is weak. Now I know that it is not being weak, but rather being smart. When dinner is already planned I can use my "brain power" on so many more interesting things.

In conclusion, this blog helps me in so many ways. I feel more accountable, organized, and at peace when I am blogging. I also am encouraged by all of the other bloggers out there. They lift my spirits and inspire me daily.

Menu Plan Monday: 3/7-3/12

2010-03-08T20:45:00.000-06:00

I am so glad to be back after my busy weeks and broken computer kept me away. Last week we just ate up old leftovers. It was not a very good meal week. It was the first week in months that I didn't have a menu plan for, and I never realized how much of an effect it has made on my life.

Honestly if it was just me, I don't think I would menu plan much. I'm happy with salads and sandwiches. However my husband can eat like a horse, so it requires a plan otherwise it just feels chaotic when dinner rolls around. I can't imagine what it would be like if you didn't have a plan and you had a whole family to feed. This week though I am ready. Here it is:

Monday: Spaghetti (using up some sausage given to me), salad, bread

Tuesday: Pork chops (frozen), mashed potatoes, broccoli

Wednesday: Dinner at church

Thursday: BLT's, apples, cut up pineapple

Last thing, the sausage that was given to me was unseasoned. If anyone has some good ideas for seasoning it so it tastes a bit more like the spicy roll sausage from Aldi it would be greatly appreciated!

For more menu plan ideas, visit Organizing Junkie.

Woo hoo! I'm back!

2010-03-08T20:22:00.000-06:00

This weekend my computer I fixed my computer with the help of a bunch of people. I am sooooooooo glad to be back. Hopefully I will be able to get caught up on my posting!

Computer on the fritz!

2010-03-02T14:18:00.000-06:00

If you've been wondering where I've been, I can tell you that I tried to install a copy of Vista Ultimate on my laptop this weekend and now I don't have internet access on it. I'm not quite sure what I did wrong, but something is messed up.

This is also the beginning of the new trimester, which means lots of work to finish up last trimester's grades and get all of my new classes up and started. I am hoping to get my computer up and working tonight. Then I'll be back in action!

Thanks for your patience!

Off the air for a bit

2010-02-23T20:43:00.000-06:00

This week is finals for week for my kids (my students). There are a lot of things to wrap up from this trimester and a lot of things to get ready for next trimester and a whole bunch of students who put off getting help until the end. Today I left at about 6:20 and got back at 9. In order to not get completely out of whack, I will be offline until the weekend. If you need to be inspired visit some of my favorite blogs on the bar on the right.

Worth Reading: Flirting 101

2010-02-22T20:34:00.000-06:00

I'm always looking for ways to keep our love exciting... forever like newlyweds. This article on flirting from At the Well in Pursuit of Titus 2, and yes I did say flirting, gives a list of many ways to keep your marriage exciting. I believe that it is worth reading.

Free South Beach Living Smore Bar

2010-02-22T18:33:00.000-06:00

Go here to sign up for a free sample of South Beach Living S'more bar. This looks absolutely delicious and it is somewhat nutritious too! I love getting free granola bars in the mail!

Thanks Bargain Briana!

Sign up to win a free wedding dress!

2010-02-22T18:28:00.000-06:00

Wedding season is coming up and if you are in the market for a wedding dress go here to sign up to win a wedding gown or up to five bridesmaid dresses from David's Bridal!

Restaurant.com Certificates 80% off!

2010-02-22T18:20:00.000-06:00

It's nearing the end of the month which means it is time for Restaurant.com gift certificates to go on sale! My husband and I have used these with great success for cheap date nights. A word of caution, make sure that you read all of the small print.

Now save 80% Off Restaurant.com $25 Gift Cert. orders. Use code SAVOR and Pay $2 thru 2/28/10.

Menu Plan Monday: 2/21-2/27

2010-02-21T21:17:00.000-06:00

This is the last week of the second trimester, which means lots of students staying after school to take old tests that they have put off until now. Furthermore, I will be preparing for the next trimester, so this week consists of many meals that can be made ahead of time. My husband will almost be away for many nights working at my parents to help remodel their kitchen. Here's the plan for the week:

Monday: Hamburger Noodle Bake (I actually made this today and it is in the fridge ready to bake for tomorrow. I added Rotel and a bit of chili seasoning instead of the chili sauce.), salad, apples

Tuesday: Frozen Chicken Pot Pie (and here's my attempt), broccoli, grapes

Wednesday: Dinner at church

Thursday: Pizza Pasta Bake (I still haven't made this one, but it sounds like something my husband will love!), salad, apples

For more menu planning ideas, visit Organizing Junkie.

Frugal Fitness Friday: Yoga Today

2010-02-18T20:44:00.000-06:00

Featured this week for Frugal Fitness Friday is the site Yoga Today. This site has a lot of yoga information. Each week they provide a free video. These free videos are not just little short clips, but instead include an entire hour long class!

I have to admit that I do not know a whole lot about yoga. I was wary of it and it's Eastern religion connections, but I have tried some of the more "secular" yoga videos before and was excited about how my flexibility increased after just one or two classes (with a free video of course!). So if you are looking to try yoga at no cost to you, visit Yoga Today and choose their free weekly class!

Gratituesday: A Free Valentine's Day!

2010-02-16T20:55:00.000-06:00

This last weekend was of course, Valentine's Day. I have to say that I have never really been a huge fan of the day, but always tried to make the best of it. When I was single I was known to dress from head to toe in reds and pinks for a girls only Valentine's Day party.

Now that I am married I have tried to make it festive, but not necessarily in the "normal" Valentine's way (ie. expensive getaways to spas, hotels, and classy restaurants). Last year my husband and I made homemade heartshaped pizza (so incredibly gourmet of course ;) and then camped out in our basement.

This year I was able to have $40 worth of free flowers sent to my school (my husband was technically in charge of that one, but in order to ensure we got the deal I helped him a lot). My students kept on asking who they were from- they forget that I am married.

On the night before Valentine's, I got out some romantic movies from the library and we watched 27 Dresses. It was pretty cute, and even my husband stayed awake and liked it!

Then on Valentine's Day we went to church and went to Walmart afterward. We picked up some groceries and while we were there we were able to go through and show each other our favorite Valentine's Day cards. This was one of my most favorite things to do because I always have such difficulty choosing just one card and so I was able to show him all of my favorites and it didn't cost me a dime (even the expensive $10 gigantic Hoops and Yoyo card!).

Later that day we used a gift certificate to a random restaurant that we had received over a year ago for Christmas. It's a very nice restaurant that is located in a really small town. We had reservations for really early, so we ended up eating in a room full of people over 40 years older than us. Somehow that made it even more special to be around so many couples that were still "keeping the love alive."

We also had a newbie waitress that was oh so awkward, but really that just topped off the evening. For instance when I left for a moment to go the ladies room the waitress actually asked my husband whether I had gone to the bathroom. Mind you there were only four other couples in the restaurant. My husband and I laughed all of the way home.

For me and my husband, this was an absolutely amazing Valentine's Day weekend and we didn't spend a dime!

Menu Plan Monday: 2/15-2/19

2010-02-15T08:56:00.002-06:00

Today is President's Day and I have the day off! Yippy! I thought about doing a crazy baking day, but instead I think I will visit a bunch of different family members and help my mom start packing up her kitchen (my husband is helping remodel it).

Also, I will finish my month off as planned (since I planned for the entire month), but starting in March I will be trying out some recipes that are good for people with high blood pressure. This runs in both my husband and I's families, so I thought it would be good to start preventing it when we are young. Here's the plan for this week:

Monday: Crockpot BBQ chicken (basically I have a bag of chicken pieces, and I have poured BBQ sauce on top and put in the crockpot- my sil says this works great, but this is my first time, so we'll see!), sides: mashed potatoes, salad, clementines and cut up apples

Tuesday: Freezer Egg and Sausage Casserole, (I have to admit I am a bit nervous on how this one will taste-I have never frozen it before.) If it bakes like it usually does it should look like this:

Recipe (this one can easily be changed depending on how much you want to make)

1 lb spicy ground sausage, browned and drained

1-1/2 c. to 2 c. shredded cheddar cheese

8-10 eggs

6-8 pieces of bread, cubed

1-1/2 c. milk

Directions: Mix milk and eggs together. Then add cheese and sausage. Finally add in bread. Pour into a 9"x13" pan and bake at 350 F for 30 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.

Wednesday: Dinner at church

Thursday: Sloppy Joes (my dh's favorite), pickles, peas, and apples

Extra meal: Pizza Pasta Casserole (I still haven't made this one yet)

Go here for any of the following coupons that could be used on this week's meals:

$0.75/1 Dole Salad Mix

$0.55/1 Crisco Non-Stick Cooking Spray

$0.50/2 Green Giant Frozen Vegetables

$1/2 Litehouse Dressing Products

$0.30/1 Diamond Kosher Salt

Visit OrgJunkie for more menu planning ideas.

New Market Coupon Matchups: 2/15-2/21

2010-02-15T08:31:00.001-06:00

Here are the New Market Coupon Matchups for the week of 2/15-2/21.

Land O'Frost Premium Lunch Meat 16oz $3
$0.55/1 Land O'Frost Premium Product, exp. 4-30-10 (RP 01/31/10)
Final Price: $2.45

Edy's Ice Cream, Yogurt, and Sherbet 48oz $2.88
$1/1 Edy's Product, exp. 3-15-10 (SS 01/31/10)
Final Price: $1.88

Tyson Fully Cooked Steak or Chicken Strips 6oz $2.99
$1/1 Tyson Grilled & Ready Frozen Product, exp. 4-3-10 (SS #2 1/3/10)
Final Price: $1.99

Silk Soy Milk $3
$0.75/1 Silk Soymilk printable
Final Price: $1.25

Lean Cuisine Classic Entrees & One Dish Favorites $2.50
$1/3 Lean Cuisine Entree printable (IE) or printable (FF)
Final Price: $2.17 each when you buy three

Pillsbury Refrigerated Cookie Dough $2.50
$1/2 Pillsbury Refrigerated Cookie Dough printable
Final Price: $2 each when you buy two

Birds Eye Steamfresh Vegetables $1.25
$0.50/1 Select Birds Eye Steamfresh Items, exp. 3-7-10 (SS 02/07/10) doubled
Final Price: $0.25!!!!

Yoplait Light 4-6oz $0.49
$0.50/6 Yoplait Cups or Light Smoothie printable doubled
Final Price: $0.33 each when you buy six

Johnsonville Breakfast Sausage Links and Patties $2.50
$0.55/1 Select Johnsonville Sausage Products, exp. 2-28 (SS 1/17/10)
Final Price: $1.95

Pillsbury Toaster Strudel Pastries $2
$0.55/2 Pillsbury Toaster Strudel Pastries printable
Final Price: $1.73 each when you buy two

Capri Suns $1.99
$1/2 Capri Suns, exp. 12-30-99 (KraftRecipes.com)
Final Price: $1.49 each when you buy two

Tide Mountain Spring Laundry Detergent 32 loads $5.99
$0.35/1 Tide Detergent, exp. 2-28-10 (P&G 01/17/10) doubled
Final Price: $5.29

Luvs Jumbo Diapers 30-40ct $6.99
$1/1 Luvs Diapers printable
Final Price: $5.99

I used DealSeekingMom's amazing coupon database to help compile this week's deals.

Frugal Fitness Friday: Livestrong

2010-02-14T19:59:00.000-06:00

Ok, I'll admit that I did not get this posted on Friday. However, this can be a lesson for all of us. Fitness and posting about fitness is one of those areas where "better late than never" works. For instance, this last week I just barely squeeked in my two days of working out (I ended up doing in Friday/Saturday), but that is better than not doing it at all.

The feature of the week is Livestrong. Most of us first think of the plastic armbands used by this company as a fund raiser for research in cancer, but this organization has so much more. On their site is a plethora of videos describing how to perform specific exercises. They also have a large number of articles on every aspect of healthy living. So if you are looking for any information on fitness and health go to Livestrong.

New Market Deals: 2/8-2/14

2010-02-11T21:45:00.001-06:00

Here are a few of the deals at New Market for this week:

Betty Crocker Frosting 12-16oz $0.99

$0.50/1 printable doubled

Final Price: FREE!!!

Eckrich Smoked or Polish Sausage 14-16oz $2.50

$0.55/1 Eckrich Smoked Sausage Product, exp. 2-28-10 (SS 01/31/10)

Final Price: $1.95

Johnsonville Summer Sausage 12oz $2.99

$1/1 Johnsonville Summer Sausage, exp. 2-28-10 (SS 01/17/10)

Final Price: $1.99

Tyson Any'tizers 18-32oz. $6.99

$1/1 Tyson Any'tizers Snacks Bag, exp. 4-30-10 (SS 01/24/10)

Final Price: $5.99

Oscar Mayer Complete Lunchable 11.4-14.6oz $2.50

$1/1 Oscar Mayer Lunchables printable (IE) or printable (FF)

Final Price: $1.50

El Monterey Taquitos 28-30oz $6.99

$1/1 El Monterey Taquitos printable

Final Price: $5.99

Nabisco Ritz Crackers 13.66-16oz $2.50
$1/1 Nabisco Crackers, exp. 3-31-10 (SS 01/24/10)
Final Price: $1.50

Betty Crocker Warm Delights 2.9-3.6oz $1.66
$0.50/1 Warm Delights or Mini Bowls printable doubled
Final Price: $0.66

Betty Crocker Brownie Mix 18.3-20.5 oz $1.50
$1/2 Betty Crocker Box Supreme Brownie Mix printable
Final Price: $1 each when you buy two

General Mills Cereal 14.8-18oz $2.50
$1/2 Select General Mills Cereals printable
Final Price: $2 each when you buy two

I used DealSeekingMom's amazing coupon database to compile this week's deals.

Gratituesday: Wisdom to Pass Along

2010-02-09T19:47:00.001-06:00

A few of my students this last week have constantly been asking "When are we ever going to use this?" It's not a new question, and I normally respond with a real world example, such as designing a roof truss system or finding the heights of mountains.

The problem arises when I cannot give the bold student a "normal" example, such as something you would do everyday. I teach Geometry, and honestly a lot of the details many people will never use. I think I just heard a couple of my colleagues going running for paper bags so they won't hyperventilate. I am one of the few math teachers that realizes that my students are not going to have to know how to find the measure of an arc to be successful.

However, I still believe that taking Geometry is an important class for all students. Math teaches you how to analyze situations, and geometry requires you to look at everything from different angles (no pun intended).

Furthermore, I grew up in a home with an information lover and I caught the bug. If I could have a superpower it would be the ability to learn anything at an extreme speed. The question has very rarely been for me, why should I know this, but rather why should I not know this?

I believe that every bit of information that we learn helps us to grow and makes us understand the world better. I was really struggling with how to deal with this one class that kept on not wanting to learn anything. All that I could think about was how silly they sounded when they were essentially saying that they wanted to stay ignorant.

Luckily, I was able to go and visit my parents and they were able to give me great advice in how to work with that class. I am extremely thankful for their input. I was able to make what seems to be a successful discussion about the importance of gaining as many skills as possible.

In conclusion, when in a time that I am unsure how else to go on, I am thankful that I have the ability to still ask my parents for advice (it's amazing how much they know:) )

Worth Reading: Being Content

2010-02-08T20:41:00.000-06:00

Go here for a great article on being content living with less. As newlyweds, I believe contentment is something that is easy to struggle with.

Menu Plan 2/8-2/14

2010-02-08T19:01:00.001-06:00

I won't be cooking much at all this week, but I decided that I would post anyway. For a frugal Valentine's Day pizza go to the end. Here's the breakdown:

Monday: Eat with my parents (my husband is helping my parents to update their kitchen, so we went over to talk about the design)

Tuesday: Eat with my husband's parents (we haven't met with them for a while)

Wednesday: Dinner at church

Thursday: Freezer sausage and mixed veggies casserole, fresh fruits and veggies

Friday: I might whip up some Valentine's treats since I have the day off (I'll keep you posted)

Last year, my husband and I decided to stay at home for Valentine's Day. We enjoyed the time together and made a heart shaped pizza, as cheezy as that is. It is a great idea for those that don't need gourmet food for holidays. I decorated up our table with a white bed sheet and some random decorations that I had from helping with elementary students. We had a blast and paid only pennies for the evening.

We had wanted to travel, but couldn't stand paying the ridiculous prices they charge on Valentine's Day, so instead I got out our tent that we had gotten for a wedding gift and we "camped out" in our basement. I completely decorated our vacation basement, a la It's a Wonderful Life.

Who says you have to spend a lot for love?

A candlelight dinner for two.

If you would like to experience the heart shaped pizza :

First, pick out your favorite guy to spend the evening with.

Second, convince him that cooking can be fun.

Third, go here for the recipe for a pretty good pizza crust. This is not the time to introduce him to a wheat crust. You can also make homemade pizza sauce, or just buy some like I did last year (although since then I have made pizza sauce that I am still trying to perfect).

Fourth, spread the dough into a heart like shape, add sauce, cheese and all of your favorite toppings.

Fifth, bake and enjoy!

New Markets Deals: 2/1-2/7

2010-02-06T15:09:00.002-06:00

Here are the deals for the week (no triple coupons):

General Mills Cereal 8.9-12.8oz $2

$1/1 printable here

Final Price: $1 each

DiGiorno Pizza $5

$1/1 DiGiorno Rising Crust Pizza, exp. 2-28-10 (SS 01/24/10)

Final Price: $4 each

Tyson Anytizers & Crispy Chicken Strips 18-32oz $6.99
$1/1 Tyson Any'tizers Snacks Bag, exp. 4-30-10 (SS 01/24/10)
Final Price: $5.99 each

Johnsonville Summer Sausage 12oz $3
$1/1 Johnsonville Summer Sausage, exp. 2-28-10 (SS 01/17/10)
Final Price: $2 each

Armour Homestyle Meatballs 14-16oz $3
$0.55/1 Armour Meatball Product, exp. 2-28-10 (SS 01/31/10)
Final Price: $2.45 each

Claussen Pickles 20-32 oz $2.50
$1/1 Claussen Pickles, exp. 12-30-99 (KraftRecipes.com)
Final Price: $1.50

Nabisco Ritz Crackers 13.66-16oz $2.50
$2/2 Nabisco Crackers printable (IE) or printable (FF)
Final Price: $1.50 each when you buy two

Kraft Velveeta 2lb $4.49
$1/1 Velveeta Cheese, exp. 12-30-99 (KraftRecipes.com)
Final Price: $3.49 each

Oscar Mayer Pepperoni 6oz $2
$1/1 Oscar Mayer Meats, exp. 12-30-99 (KraftRecipes.com)
Final Price: $1 each

Oscar Mayer Bologna 12oz $1
$1/1 Oscar Mayer Bologna, exp. 12-30-99 (KraftRecipes.com)
Final Price: FREE!!!

Gatorade Thirst Quencher (32oz) or Propel Fitness Water (24oz) $1 each
$0.50/1 Gatorade G2, exp. 3-31-10 (RP 01/10/10) doubled
Final Price: FREE!!!

Lipton Pasta Sides or Rice 4-5.6oz $1
$1/3 Knorr Rice and Pasta Side Dish, exp. 2-28-10 (RP 01/31/10)
Final Price: $0.67 each when you buy three

Hunt's Spaghetti Sauce 26-26.5oz $1
$0.50/2 Hunt's Pasta Sauce printable doubled
Final Price: $0.50 each when you buy two

Chef Boyardee Canned Pasta or Micro Cups 7.25-15oz $1
$0.40/1 Chef Boyardee Microwaveable Bowl, exp. 2-28-10 (SS 01/10/10)
$0.35/3 Chef Boyardee, exp. 2-28-10 (SS 01/10/10) doubled
Final Price: varies

Eckrich Smoked or Polish Sausage 14-16oz $2.50
$0.55/1 Eckrich Smoked Sausage Product, exp. 2-28-10 (SS 01/31/10)
Final Price: $1.95 each

Bob Evans Roll Sausage 16oz $2.50
$0.35/1 Bob Evans Roll Sausage printable doubled
Final Price: $1.80 each

El Monterey Burritos 32oz Taquitos 11.3-12oz $3.50
$1/2 El Monterey Burritos printable
$1/1 El Monterey Taquitos printable
Final Price: varies

Cole's Garlic Toast 16-17oz $2.50
$0.50/1 Cole's Bread Product printable doubled
Final Price: $1.50each

Yoplait Original or Whips! Yogurt 4-6oz cup $0.50
$0.50/6 Yoplait Yogurt Cups printable doubled
Final Price: $0.30 each when you buy six

Dean's French Onion Dippz 16oz $1.50
$1/2 Dean's Dip, exp. 3-31-10 (RP 01/31/10)
Final Price: $1 each when you buy two

Jello Refridgerated Desserts 6pk $2.50
$0.60/1 Jell-O Refrigerated Mousse, Gelatin or Pudding Snacks, exp. 2-10-10 (SS 01/10/10)
Final Price: $1.90

Cheez-It 11.5-14oz $2.50
$1/2 Keebler Crackers or Sunshine Cheez-It Baked Snack Crackers, exp. 2-7-10 (RP 12/13/09)
Final Price: $2 each when you buy two

Betty Crocker Brownie Mix 18.3-20.5oz $1.50
$0.75/2 Betty Crocker Supreme Brownie Mix printable
Final Price: $1.13 each when you buy two

Luvs Jumbo Diapers 30-40ct $6.99
$1/1 Luvs Diapers printable
Final Price: $5.99 each

Old Orchard 100% Apple Juice 64oz $2
$0.50/1 Old Orchard Juice Product printable doubled
Final Price: $1 each

I used Deal Seeking Mom's amazing coupon database to help compile this week's deals.

Frugal Fitness Friday: More Online Workout Videos

2010-02-06T13:56:00.000-06:00

The Frugal Fitness Friday feature this week is women-workout-routines.com. They have several free online workout reutines. They really are pretty good exercises, however I will warn you that they have kind of bizarre outfits on.

Cheap Valentine's Date!

2010-02-02T21:25:00.001-06:00

Restaurant.com is offering a great Valentine's Day promotion (who doesn't want cheap flowers?).

Now save 60% off Restaurant.com $25 Gift Cert. orders and receive a $15 FTD® Floral Reward. Use code BLOOM and Pay $4 thru 2/8/10.

February Freezer Cooking

2010-02-02T21:01:00.000-06:00

Here is the starting point of my fun February freezer cooking: a huge pile of groceries. It was sooooooo exciting to go couponing again!

I was able to make four different freezer casseroles, and by I, I mean we! Yep, my wonderful husband helped me out and we actually had a blast!

This is a picture of the beginnings of my pie crust. Can you believe it? I made a pie crust. This happened because I forgot to buy extra pie crusts. I called my mom and asked for the absolute easiest pie crust recipe that she knew of and she sent me this.

Note: This is only strong enough to be used as the "bottom" crust.

Pat-in-pan pie crust

1 1/2 cups plus 3 T flour
1 1/2 t sugar
1/2 t salt (I probably don't put this in)
1/2 cup veg. oil, canola etc.
3 T cold milk

Mix dry ingredients in the pie pan with your fingers until blended.
Mix oil and milk in a cup with a fork til creamy
Pour at once over flour mixture
Mix with fork til completely moistened
Pat dough with your fingers up the sides of the pie pan and across the bottom
Flute the edges.

Ta da! There it is! I'm not up to Julia's standards, but it came out wonderful as my first pie crust!

My husband helped make the filling for the chicken pot pies. Go here for the recipe. He did such a great job with the little direction I gave him.

I am definitely not a food photographer, but the filling was absolutely delicious. Here's a picture of one of the final products (we already had one of the two pies for dinner!).

We also made a breakfast casserole (that we'll eat for dinner), and a sausage and mixed veggies casserole and even had some leftover chopped chicken that we used in sandwiches and wraps over the weekend.

There's the fruits of our 2 or so hours of work!

January Goal Check-up

2010-02-01T21:08:00.000-06:00

It's the start of another month, so it means it's time to do a goal check up. Go here to see my yearly goals. Here's the run down:

Spiritual

Keep up with the one-year Bible reading plan. I am amazed at how much I am learning. I have to admit that I would slip a day or two, but I am currently caught up.
My husband and I have started taking a class at our church and it is definitely pushing me to think about a lot of things differently.

Personal

I just barely squeeked in visiting all four sets of grandparents. This has been such a great experience, but it is still seems a bit unnatural. I would really push all of you out there to try it.
I haven't yet attempted dinner for family yet.
Haven't read The Millionaire Next Door.
I have exercised twice a week! I feel so much better! However, I can still say that it takes so much effort to rip my body off of the couch and get up and move. It really helps having accountability.

Education

The only goal that I have kept this month in this category is creating hands on lessons.

Financial

At the beginning of the month we were at 48% of the small goal and now we are at 52.33%. We were at 32% of the big goal and now we are at 34.89% of the big goal. By the end of the year we hope to be at 89% of the small goal and 59.3% of the big goal.

Menu Plan Monday: 2/1-2/7 Hamburger Pie

2010-02-01T18:47:00.002-06:00

It's Monday again, which means time to lay out my menu plan for the week. I have to say that I actually have a tentative plan for the entire month of February! In January I participated in the Eat from the Pantry Challenge, so I created a month long menu plan to ensure that I would have enough ingredients to last the month. I ended up really enjoying having most everything already planned. Therefore, this month I sat down and tried to create a tentative plan for the month and for my freezer cooking (I'll tell you more about that later). Here is what I came up with for this week:

Monday: Hamburger Pie (my husband's favorite and something he can make)-recipe below

Tuesday: Crockpot beef and vegetables

Wednesday: Frozen Chicken Pot Pie

Thursday: Leftovers

Sides include: lots of fresh fruits and veggies, salads, bread

Here's the Hamburger Pie Recipe. It is about the simplest thing ever; my husband loves it and will make it. It's not exactly gourmet, but I have to admit, it tastes pretty good!

Hamburger Pie Recipe

1 lb ground beef

Salt and Pepper to taste

1 c. shredded cheddar cheese

2 eggs-beaten

1-1/2 c. milk

3/4 c. bisquit mix

Directions: In a skillet, cook beef over medium heat until no longer pink, drain. Press into an ungreased 9" pie plate. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and cheese.

In a bowl, combine the eggs, milk, and bisquit mix just until combined. Pour over cheese.

Bake at 400 F for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.

For more menu plan ideas, visit Organizing Junkie.

Frugal Fitness Friday: My FitnessPal

2010-01-29T16:03:00.000-06:00

The Frugal Fitness Friday feature this week is myfitnesspal.com. Myfitnesspal.com offers a free online food journal/ calorie counter. I know that if I had to journal everything I ate, that I might think twice before having another chocolate. So if you are looking for a good online food journal that is free go to myfitnesspal.com.

Free Hershey's Pieces!

2010-01-28T19:41:00.001-06:00

Right now if you send in an empty back of any type of "pieces" candy, you can receive a coupon for free candy. Go to Colie's Kitchen for more information.

New Market Triple Coupons are Back!!!! 1/25-1/31

2010-01-28T18:05:00.001-06:00

This has been such a busy week that I never got a chance to look at the ad for New Market online and I just now was able to look at the one in the paper tonight. I was elated to see that triple coupons are back all week! Woo hoo! Here's a list of the deals I've matched with the ad in the paper including freebies!

Capri Sun Fruit Juice 10pk $1.99

$1/2 Capri Suns, exp. 12-30-99 printable coupon doubled

Final Price: $1 each when you buy 2!!!

Bar S Corn Dogs 3lbs $3.99

$1/2 Bar-S Product printable coupon doubled

Final Price: $3 each when you buy 2

Bob Evans Side Dishes 14.5-24oz $2.49

$0.50/1 Bob Evans Side Dishes printable coupon tripled

Final Price: $1.74 each!!

Oscar Mayer FunPack Lunchables 10.55-15oz $1.99

$1/1 Oscar Mayer Lunchables printable (IE) or printable (FF) doubled

Final Price: FREE!

Tyson Fully Cooked Steak & Chicken Strips 6oz $2.99

$1/1 Tyson Grilled & Ready Frozen Product, exp. 4-3-10 (SS #2 1/3/10) doubled

Final Price: $0.99 each!

Bagel Bites 9ct $1.59

$1/1 Bagel Bites printable coupon doubled

Final Price: FREE!

Wishbone Salad Dressings 16oz $1.99

$1.25/2 Wish-Bone Dressings printable (regional)

Final Price: $1.37 when you buy two

Betty Crocker Fruit Snacks 4.5-9ox $2.49

$1/2 Betty Crocker Fruit Flavored Shapes printable coupon doubled

Final Price: $1.49 each when you buy two

Hillshire Farms Ultra Thin & Hearty Sliced Lunchmeat 8-10oz $3.49

$0.35/1 Hillshire Farm Deli Select Ultra Thin Lunchmeats or Hearty Slices Lunchmeats, exp. 2-13-10 (RP 01/10/10) tripled

Final Price: $2.44 each

Bananas $.39/lb

I used DealseekingMom's amazing coupon database to help compile these! Thanks!

80% off Restaurant.com Gift Certificates

2010-01-28T17:10:00.000-06:00

It's the nearing the end of the month which means Restaurant.com has cut their $25 gift certificates down to only $2. Now would be a great time to buy some to use next month for Valentine's Day dinner! Just make sure that you read all of the fine print before you buy! Go here to check out this great deal.

New Vistaprint Deals

2010-01-28T17:04:00.000-06:00

Vistaprint is currently running lots and lots of deals.
There are a lot of deals where you only need to pay for shipping. Here's a list of the deals I have found:

Free Business Card Magnets
Free Note Cards
Free Business Cards
Free Custom Printed Hat
Free small vinyl banner sign
Free Invitations
Free Custom Printed T-Shirt
Free Photo Calendar
Free Photo Book

Free Sample of Avery Label Pads

2010-01-28T16:08:00.000-06:00

Go here for a free sample of Avery Label Pads. I know many wrote new year's resolutions to get more organized, and what a better way to do that than with free labels! I'm planning on labeling some of my storage boxes with the sample.

Thanks, FreebieBlogger!

Free Sample of Playtex Gentle Glide

2010-01-28T15:54:00.000-06:00

Go here to get a free sample of Playtex Gentle Glide.

Gratituesday: Alarming Music

2010-01-26T16:47:00.000-06:00

My husband and I have our own alarm clocks. Mine wakes me up to NPR (I will sleep through most music, but for some reason people's voices wake me up) and my husband's wakes him up to a station that plays a mix of everything.

Our alarms go off within minutes of each other and we alternate hitting the snooze button. It is a kind of comical mix. A few mornings ago we had hit the snooze button a few times and "Keep on Loving You" by REO Speedwagon was playing. I have to say that it put me in such a great mood for the day. It fun songs like that which can bring a smile to even my face at that time in the morning.

Go here if you want to listen to it (it came on at about half-way through the song-when the chorus is) or go here to download it and picture me singing it while half asleep in the morning.

Menu Plan Monday: Pantry Week Jan 24-30

2010-01-24T21:54:00.000-06:00

Whew, we've almost made it through the Eat from the Pantry Challenge, and honestly, my cupboards are still really full. Here's the plan for the week, so far:

Main Meals:

Monday: Mexican Chicken Wraps (basically use taco seasoning on chicken, throw in a tortilla with lettuce, cheese and sour cream, yum!)

Tuesday: Chicken, Broccoli, and Rice Freezer Casserole (hoping it is not freezer burnt, since I didn't wrap it that great)

Wednesday: Meal at Church

Thursday: Marinated chicken breast, with sauteed green peppers and mushrooms (they are on a great sale at Aldi!)

Sides: Lots of fresh produce: clementines, apples, fresh pineapple, carrots, peas

Pamida: 90% off Clearance!

2010-01-23T15:57:00.000-06:00

If you happen to have a Pamida near you, now is the time to stop in. They are currently running 90% storewide clearance. Last year I was able to pick up some really cheap wrapping paper, but they normally have all kinds of things on clearance.

Thanks, Mrs.BuysmoreandMr.Savesalot!

SeeHere 50% off Valentine's Day Photo Cards!

2010-01-23T15:43:00.001-06:00

SeeHere.com is running a 50% off photo cards promotion from now until Valentine's Day. Just use the code vday to receive the discount at checkout. I'm pretty sure that this can be used on any photo card, so if you are planning on sending out any types of announcements in the future (birth announcements, graduation cards, pregnancy announcements, etc.) now would be a great time to go online and use this 50% discount before it expires!

Coupons.com List

2010-01-23T13:56:00.000-06:00

Coupons.com is a great resource for printable coupons. I have saved a lot of money by using their printable coupons. Here's just a few of my favorites that you can print now:

$1/2 Kraft or Cracker Barrel Natural Cheese
$3/2 Fragrence Collection products by Glade (go here for a way to get these more than free at Kmart)
$1/2 King's Hawaiian products (excluding 4-pack rolls)
$1/1 GE Energy Smart light bulbs

Smokey Bones Buy One Entree Get One Free!

2010-01-23T11:55:00.001-06:00

Go here to print a coupon for Buy One Entree Get One Free at Smokey Bones. My husband and I like to go here on date nights, and Smokey Bones has so many of these wonderful coupons that we have been able to go out for and still have a really cheap date night!

Thanks, MoneySavingMom!

Frugal Fitness Friday: Military Workouts

2010-01-22T15:57:00.000-06:00

It's Frugal Fitness Friday again! This week I would like to focus on a website that I found provided by Military.com. If you go here you will find a huge list of links to all kinds of resources.

Many of the links are geared more towards men, but there are a lot of interesting ones on the site that could be for men or women. They have workouts for each branch of military and for specific types of training. They also have workouts for specific muscle groups. They even have some interesting articles on different exercises and their effectiveness!

So if you are looking for intense free boot camp style workouts go here.

*Go here for a list of all Frugal Fitness posts, including links to free workout music, free online workout videos, free food journaling, and more.

Free Fitness Music

2010-01-21T18:24:00.001-06:00

If you like peppy workout music, go here to download The Biggest Loser Workout Mix for free! I downloaded it and it has all kinds of songs including Stronger, which always keeps me motivated!

Thanks, FrugalFind!

Free ConAgra Coupon Booklet

2010-01-21T17:58:00.000-06:00

Go here to sign up for a free high value ConAgra Coupon Booklet. ConAgra produces Hunt's, Manwich, and Rotel and many other quality food products.

Thanks, Hoosier Freebies & Deals!

Restaurant.com Discount Code

2010-01-20T20:54:00.001-06:00

Save now on Restaurant.com Gift Cards. . Use code FEAST to save an additional 70% off through 1/26/20!

Remember to read all of the details for each gift card.

Free Redbox Code at Meijer

2010-01-19T19:56:00.001-06:00

There is a new free redbox code at Meijer. Use the code SMRTRY2 to get a free rental, but use it quick. It expires 1/21/2010!

Thanks, Carie's Coins & Cents and Freebie Blogger!

Gratituesday: Thankful for Budget Cuts

2010-01-19T19:00:00.000-06:00

In Indiana education, we have had drastic and I mean drastic budget cuts. This could in the end, mean my job, but for now its main effect is a paper shortage. Our school is practically out of paper. This is unheard of. At previous meetings we'd talk about how to better reach our students, what engaging lessons actually mean, but now the meetings have been reduced to, how to teach using less paper.......and yet I love it.

To me a budget cut means a time for me to be forced to be creative. If I had paper I would probably be still printing partially filled out notes for my students to use and doing most of the same old things. Now, my students are getting a glimpse at life after highschool and are starting to practice writing their own notes. I realize that this does not work for all of my students, so I have come up with many more ideas. We play a lot more games. My students love it. I have to write the questions on powerpoint slides ahead of time, which is a decent amount of work, but it means that I'll have a permanent copy already made up.

Next trimester I will be teaching this same subject and teaching another one that I have never taught before. Without this budget cut, I doubt that I would have so many resources made up that I can reuse.

Another weird plus is that I don't have the stress of the copy machine anymore. I used to make up a lot of my materials on my computer at home and then bring them in to make copies. One day when my principal came to observe me I came in late because the copy machine was broken and I didn't have a back up plan, so I had to wait for my copies and be slightly late. This would never happen now.

So as the budget cuts remove more and more of our resources, I am thankful it eliminates the clutter to bring to light some of the real treasures that we still have, our creative minds!

Pinecone Research Accepting New Applicants!

2010-01-18T13:01:00.000-06:00

Pinecone Research is now accepting applications again. Go here to sign up (and sign up quickly because they only allow new applicants for a very short time).

I cannot say enough good things about Pinecone Research. First, it is a survey company that pays you $3 for each survey you take. They email you when they have a new survey available. Most of the surveys take about 20 minutes or so to take (I normally bring my laptop to the couch and watch tv with my husband while taking one). Second, many times they send you full size samples to try of a product before reviewing it.

I have had the best experience working for this company. I get a check in the mail for $3 within a week after taking the survey (or you can choose paypal). You will not get rich by working for this company, but each of those $3 checks adds up!