Random things

I'mmmmmm baaaacccckkkk!!!!

2009-06-19T20:06:00.000-07:00

Wow...no shopping for 4 weeks!!!....It was hard to get back and I am still organizing coupons from my absence.....BUT....it felt great to get back out there and SAVE!!! I am discovering that things go on sale so often, there is no need to buy 10 at a time for most things! I don't want my garage to be converted to storage and I don't want to invest to come up with additional storage. We have a good balance...lots of extras....and saving money!!!!

I need to work on my menu planning....but that is another day! Today...I am happy to have saved money again!!! I am buying 1 paper each week and I get my MILs....and I print off line.....I can't keep up with 6-10 papers...to much life going on to cut that many coupons....BUT again the sales happen so often I don't need 10-20 of everything that goes on sale.....You can make it work for you and your family. You can do more, you can do less....but do something and you will SAVE $$$$$!!!!!

Free KFC chicken!!!

2009-05-05T22:10:00.000-07:00

Still here...still saving money and loving it but no time for pictures lately! I am excited about the free chicken at KFC though! oprah.com/kfc for free two pieced grilled chicken meal coupon....can download 4 free meals per person

Some recent savings

2009-04-14T20:52:00.000-07:00

OOP was $50 at K-Mart...saved $150

Bi-Lo OOP was $32
So, where have I been? Saving money of course! I have taken pictures but have been so busy that I haven't had a chance to post them! I want to share a few pictures....When K-mart doubled several weeks back...I spent $50 and saved $150!!Today, I spent $24 at Bi-Lo (mostly HBA) and saved almost $85!!! Publix was OOP $38 and saved $56. Last week Bi-Lo was $32 and before coupons and bonus card was $102. I am going to load pictures but I have to say a word or two about the coupons and savings! It does take time but it has taken less and less time the longer I have done it! I wish I could tell you how much I have saved total and how much I have spent....it would be an amazing #!!! Today I bought 7 Gillette shaving creams for FREE....4 2 packs of Oil of Olay bar soaps for FREE...it just takes the time to clip and check out the online resources that do the work for you! I love the challenge and my like minded friends and I love to discuss what deals we got and how much we saved!!!!

There are far worse things to be addicted to!!!

2009-03-19T20:09:00.001-07:00

After my ECBs back--my oop on this was $2.37!!! You can't buy 1 of thing in the picture for that!!! Not even at Wal-mart....Loving CVS this week! Also got a free sample of a brownie bowl in the mail!

Publix is my ALL TIME FAVORITE!!!! I spent $39.04 and saved $83.33

I am ADDICTED to these coupons.....My friend sent me a text....a lady in front of her checked out with a grand total of $5...my friend said "GAME ON!!" That is how I feel...I want to do as well as Kasey....no I want to do better but how I will be thrilled to just do as good! She is amazing and I am sooooo thankful God planted this mission on her heart! God is at work in my life and is using people I hardly know to get me where he wants me. Trish and her Reading the Bible Blog....it has put me where God wants us all....in his word and everyday. She encourages me and keeps me accountable on the blog and by email--God is using r...and he knew he would when I briefly met her in Nashville at Maggie's b-day party! Now, he is using Kasey....Those ladies are AMAZING and I am so grateful for the money savings they are sharing! I am now disappointed if my savings are below 50%.....anything less is just not good enough!!! :-) I feel like I am making a great contribution to my home's bottom line by aggressively looking for the best for our money--good stewardship with what God has give us!!! We have so much food and other stockpiles...it falls right in with Dave Ramsey's emergency fund...but with food and toiletries.....

Me...yep me....the one that HATED going to the grocery store...I can't wait for Sunday coupons and Wednesday ads!!! I look forward to the trips to the stores and love all the savings!!! Today I spent $76.07 and I SAVED $162.58 and I have $6 ECB.....so I could say I spent 70 and saved 168!!!!! My kind of week....these are the pics of what I bought today!!!!

One last comment...our kids watch and do everything we do....think I am wrong...listen to them--sometimes it is embarrassing to hear my words come back out of a 4 or 6 year old....God uses everyone to teach us things! My girls love to help cut out coupons and look for them all the time! They cut out there own coupons from Sonic....they are too funny...and mirroring me...this is one I can say I am proud of!he

Natural high!!!

2009-03-08T20:46:00.001-07:00

OK...so I have decided I love saving more than I spend....and if I don't do that I don't think it is a good deal! I DO NOT buy if it isn't on sale and I don't have a coupon....and if I have a coupon BUT it isn't on sale....no go! This game is fun!!!
Today my OOP was $51.43....check out the pictures....Total savings was $149.60 (counting the ECB and RR in my wallet!) It is fun, it is easy, it is a natural high--feeling financially responsible to save all I can! What about you...what were your deals/savings?

I love to save!!!

2009-03-06T21:34:00.001-08:00

First stop TARGET!!!! These wipes cost $5.99 each...my OOP was $3.09 I saved $10.00!...and I have 2 more $5.00 off coupons!!!!
Next stop Walgreens....My OOP after my rebate is $4.99...I saved $21.18. I bought 2 more chex mixes, more emery boards--FREE, Walgreens head ache meds--FREE after rebate, 4 Oust air fresheners...Q BOGO plus rebate!

My rough numbers are total spent: $23.24 and total saved ~$113.00

Next was CVS...Another FREE Fusion RAZOR, 3 tubes of toothpaste and a pack of peanut butter M & M's....OOP $0.87...and that was for the M & M's....I had an ECB to use , plus Qs but my total amount had to be $5.00 before tax to use the ECB...so I will enjoy my reward of M&M's!!

Last for tonight was Rite Aid....I bought 2 eyeliners, 2 blushes, 2 mascaras, 2 lip glosses, a power and a foundation plus a box of tampons...all for $14.29 after Qs and rebated!! The before tax total was $55.23....SAVED around $46!!!

OK...so yes...this is addictive and so much fun! I want everyone to do it!!! Check out Kasey and Kelly's blog....they are amazing...no AMAZING!!!! I am going to their advanced classes! Wouldn't it be great to be like them? They are Godly women that are saving money like crazy! I am happy and excited at what I am saving.....and then I look at them and think wow...I have so much to learn and so far to go! That is OK...I love to learn for all who know me!!!!

There site: http://time2save.blogspot.com/
There upcoming classes are listed on the right side and so is there contact info!!! Hope to see you there!!!

Walgreens quick trip

2009-03-04T18:56:00.000-08:00

So tonight I hit Walgreen's....What I bought:
3 Johnson & Johnson flosses--FREE
32 oz. Formula 409....$1.50
Revlon emery boards--FREE
2 boxes of Fiber one bars--1.39 each
2 boxes of Chex Mix trail bars--
2 bags of chex mix--$1.00
1 Fiber one poptarts
Total OOP $11.86 TOTAL SAVINGS $26.49....I had a RR to use but it wouldn't let me b/c I had used so many coupons....I am wondering if I had used it first or if I had thrown in one more item, if I could have used it???? I will ask that at my coupon class tomorrow! The manager said he thought it was because I had as many Qs as items...it said my purchase was less than the RR.....it is for $3.50...clearly it wasn't less! If I had been able to use it my OOP would have been $8.36 and savings would have been $29.99...oh well...I can use it another day!

Side note...I was told at Target tonight they will no longer allow you to stack coupons.....

I love the grocery store!!!

2009-02-28T19:04:00.000-08:00

It is funny...I used to hate the grocery store...I have NEVER liked going...ever!!! Now, I can't wait to go!!! I love finding the deals and trying to "beat" my friends on savings....of course I love sharing the deals so they can save too! It just makes it all so fun...and saving money--well who doesn't love that!!! It almost feels like I am doing something wrong....and I want to tell everyone that I see in the store to clip the coupons...it is all so easy....takes a bit of time BUT unless you can just afford to throw away money--and that is what I have done until now...I love it...have I said that? I am contributing money to the bottom line...they are right...it is a part time job....but doesn't my family deserve it? I say YES!!!! Thank you so much to the coupon ladies!!!!

Publix: spent $61.51....saved $102.13
Bought:
10 Mueller Pasta
4 Classico Pasta Sauces
10 Kellogg's pop tarts
2 Tropicana OJ's
8 Betty Crocker Supreme Brownie Mix
20 Green Giant canned veggies
Bananas
2 Muir Glenn diced tomatoes
3 Renuzit triscent starter kits
2 Kraft M & Cheese dinners
3 Angel Soft 4-double rolls
6 Mentos gum

Walgreen's: spent $14.61....saved.......$71.96 (this includes the rebate)
4 Glade Lasting Impression fan...
4 Glade Sense and Spray

Total spent: $76.12
Total saved: $174.09

I have to say....my Publix receipt is the longest one I have ever had....It is just a little short...like 1/2 an inch--of 4 feet!!! Yep....this one is hanging at the desk!!!!

2009-02-25T20:45:00.000-08:00

I ran out and picked up a few more deals tonight!!! LOVE this!!! Walgreens: Fusion razor: 8.99...$4 coupon and $6RR...
Mixed bag of twix/snickers etc 3.00...my cost FREE
I paid 6.10 with $6 RR...I am out of $0.10
BUT I needed powder SO I used my RR and it was FREE!!!
My total savings at Walgreens tonight was $14.69

THEN came CVS....
2 Nyquil products 2/$9.98
2 Ban deodorants 1.99 each
1 Venus razor 7.99
After my coupons, ECBs, and the coupon for $5 off of $15 my grand total was:
$7.10 I saved $22.00!!!!

It is addictive, it is FUN and I almost feel like I am doing something wrong!!! Crazy deals and with a bit of work you can do it too!!! I want to share with everyone!! It is so easy to do....what are you waiting for????

Grocery giveaway at southernsavers.com

2009-02-25T11:52:00.000-08:00

Jenny at southernsavers.com is hosting a giveaway!!!! $50 in free groceries--gift card to the store of your choice!!!! If you haven't been using her site--what are you waiting for??? Go over and check it out at www.southernsavers.com !!!!
Free Groceries Giveaway!
Posted on Feb 24 2009 | By Jenny · Comments

With all the great deals at Publix this week, and the past few at Kroger & Bi-Lo, it’s time to see how far you could stretch a gift card.

I am giving two lucky folks a $50 gift card to the Southern Savers grocery store of their choice.

The catch, the two winners will have to take a picture of their trips and report back (on Southern Savers) to tell us how much $50 actually bought them!!

It’s the first time I’ve made the winners work for their prize, but it makes it more fun for everyone. This giveaway will go until Friday at noon. You can enter two different ways:

Comment below with what store you would want a gift card to, and how much in retail value you think you could get with $50.
Blog or Twitter about the giveaway and then comment here letting me know you did.
Winners will be randomly chosen and will be emailed Friday afternoon. If you have never left a comment on Southern Savers new comments are moderated and might not appear for a little while.

More shopping....more savings!!!

2009-02-24T05:48:00.000-08:00

At Walgreens I spent a total of $16 and saved $24.67....the paper towels alone would have been $19.00! Missing from the picture is 2 candy bars--we couldn't wait til we got home!

AT Target I spent $11 and saved $28.17...one of those razors is usually $9.00!!!

Trip 2 Publix was $15 and I saved $12.06

This was my first Publix trip and it won't be may last!!! Trip one cost me $29 and I saved $50.73.

Food lion was 1 trip but I forgot the bread so it is in a separate picture! :-) I spent $22 and saved $18.82

Rite Aid was $7.32 but after my rebates of $5.00 oop is $2.32

Finally CVS was 6.26 BUT I have $5.00 ECB so it was like spending $1.26...and the ECB didn't print correctly--it gave me $5 off of $15 spent so she let me keep that and my $5.00 ECB....so it is like I made 4.74!!!
So...I planned my shopping....all my stops and coupons.....and we were off for a day full of shopping and savings!!!! I bought the baseball card holders to organize the coupons--and had them organized for each store I was going to...it was a GREAT help!!! I also bought toilet paper on sale and with coupons at K-mart--$10 for a good start on a stock pile!

So on my savings trips yesterday...I spent a total of $118.40 and SAVED $148.56.....now I know these #s don't sound as good as $40 a week BUT since that is normally my weekly Walmart bill, I am very pleased!!! My freezer is stocked and my pantry is full. I have paper towels, toilet paper, Reynolds wrap, shampoo, razors, candy, hair product and more!!! I know I will get to where I can shop only the sales so my total will go down! I also know what is a good deal will change! For me $.13 for toothpaste is still great....for the experts it is free all the way! :-)

How is your shopping going? Any troubles? I know Leslie, Donna and I shared notes yesterday and we all had little things happen....patience and attention to details make it smoother....we are learning a new way of shopping and it will pay off greatly in the end!

More deals!

2009-02-17T19:40:00.001-08:00

This money saving thing is addictive!!! It is like a game to see how much I can save! I love games and I LOVE to win!!! I went back to Bi-Lo tonight to grab a few more deals and I revisited all 3 drug stores for a few more deals!!!

I want to post my before and after prices....I KNOW they will get better the more I do this.....and I love it because I am contributing to our household bottom line!!! My Bi-Lo total was $43.92 and after my savings it was $14.12!!!!! I am going to group the 3 drug stores together: the before was $50.47 and after was $15.40!!!

Thomas told me last night that I had the toothpaste deals down, so let's move on to another deal! :-) So now we have toothpaste, shampoo, and deodorant! I am also building up my stock in the pantry!!!!

I will post pictures later.....off in search of more deals!!!

By the way, the lovely ladies that did the coupon class I went to have a blog now.....check them out......and if you can--go to one of their classes!!!!
http://time2save.blogspot.com/

CVS and more

2009-02-16T19:23:00.000-08:00

Clearly I have been MIA from here! Life is so busy BUT I have to tell you about the coupon class I went to!!!!!! These ladies are AMAZING!!!!! Cutting grocery bill from $150 to $30-40 per WEEK!!!! They gave us handouts and a great overview BUT there is so much to learn and the only way to do it is just get out there!!! So, last week I bought 3 papers and jumped in with my clipping! Clip them all because you just don't know what the deals might be on.....
In the picture on the left:
2 Bounty Basic paper towels
1 colgate total toothpaste
1 Finesse shampoo/conditioner
2 Crest kids toothpaste
Revlon foundation
Revlon mascara
Revlon eyeshadow
Revlon lip creme
box of Band-aids
Garnier hair product
4 cans of Purina One dog food (only 3 pictured--Zoey couldn't wait)
Contact lens solution
Grand Total would have been $64.28 (these deals were at Walgreens, Wal-Mart, CVS and Rite Aid)
My total was $9.97 for everything!!!!!

The picture on the right was from tonight at CVS.....
3 Crest toothpastes
1 Colgate Total
1 snickers egg
Total: $0.53.....and that is because she made me buy one thing to get my total over my ECB....so I bought the egg.....my total had been -$0.02!!!!

SWWWEEEEEETTTTT!!!!!

I am no pro but I am so excited to do this!! I ran into Casey--the coupon class lady tonight and they have started a business.....the basic class is free and then if you are interested in the advanced savings class and drugstore class....I think it will be $50 for the 2.....and it woould so be worth it!! She went to Publix today--left with 30 bags of groeceries--bill before coupons $104...final was $2.11....she is GREAT!!!!

Last week I bought almost everything with a coupon and saved--it is baby steps though--I didn't get my bill to where they are but it will take time...so no frustration! I took a picture of some of my deals.....in a few weeks or months I may laugh that I thought these were deals because of the REAL deals I will be getting......

Why I LOVE Kohl's!!!

2008-11-22T19:53:00.001-08:00

OK....so I have had a hard time being 100% faithful to my Dave Ramsey committment....and her is why.....both girls have had birthdays--so with parties and presents....I spent some money that would have gone into the debt snowball.....NOW...Christmas....I love watching them open and be excited on Christmas morning--and I love to shop for them!!!! I went today.....I spent $366 BUT if I had paid full price (as my husband reminded me--I would not have because I AM NOT a full price girl!) but it still makes me feel good to say--I would have spent $939.46!!!! I would tell you waht I bought but my oldest gets on and checks out the blogs....so I can't do it--but I know they are going to love everything!!!! Most importantly we remember the most importatn gift--why we celebrate Christmas!!! Anna told me she was so excited about Christmas because it is Jesus' birthday! Heartwarming moment!!!

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!!!!

Backgrounds!

2008-11-06T20:34:00.001-08:00

In keeping with the name, Random Things, I love the new backgrounds I have discovered for my blogs! How fun and how cute!!!

Don't buy new cars until....maybe never!

2008-10-04T07:14:00.000-07:00

We are enjoying this class so much! He is just so straight forward when he calls you decision STUPID....and you KNOW he is right--but he has a gift and you don't get angry--you laugh with him.....then go to work on fixing the problems.....make that budget--use cash--make your money work for you!!!! He teaches most weeks a new word for many--NO!!!!
As a parent, I have learned to never say never....unless you like to eat words....but I will go out on a limb and say we will NEVER buy a new car....unless....well Dave says unless you have a million in the bank....but I will say UNLESS I can pay CASH!!!! He showed opportunity cost this week.....and talked about immaturity....so I want to share two of his pearls of wisdom this week!!!

Opportunity cost....
His friend wanted to buy a 1986 Mercedes when he made 6 figures...and he made 6 figures in his early 20's....went and test drove the car...sucked in the smell, looked at the symbol of Mercedes on the hood and steering wheel....the symbol for him that said he had arrived.....he had $40,000 in a mutual fund to pay cash for it....he wanted it...oh he so wanted it and had worked for it and was going to pay cash for it. He told the salesman he wanted to think about it overnight......he went home and did his financial calculator and knew he could not buy that car!!!! Opportunity Cost made him say NO!!! 12 years later he pulled up next to someone with a temporary tag on that same 1986 model Mercedes......he asked what he had paid--the man replied BOOK vlaue......$4000.....$36000 less than what it cost new 12 years earlier (WHAT KIND OF STUPID INVESTMENT IS A NEW CAR???) His mutual fund--the one that had $40,000 was now worth $300,000....so tell me what was the better investment?? Easy answer for me....and like Dave, who will tell you he is going to step on toes.....I am not trying to offend but for me--it is ridiculous to pay--that much for a car....the highest I could stomach would be $25,000 and let me tell you that makes my stomach hurt....so don't look for that to happen! I have financial goals for my family and car debt is not included in that.....I don't like bondage and that is what debt is!!!
This is long so I will just say that the immaturity pearl is about the inner child that wants it....DON'T let him make you buying decisions!

Godliness with contentment is a great thing.....be content with what you have a new car, purse, shoes, outfit, house...whatever it is that you think will make you happy if you only had....well news flash--IT WON'T...if you are not happy with the car you drive or the house you live in etc....a new one may please you shortly but there is something else lacking--and the thing won't fix it!!!

Who can find a virtuous wife? For her worth is far above rubies. The heart of her husband safely trusts her; so he will have no lack of gain. Proverbs 31: 10-11

Women talk to your husbands--make your opinions known--work together!!! You are supposed to be one so you need to act like it!!!! This is STRAIGHT from Dave....many times we don't want to make our spouse upset or tell them no but Dave points out you are doing an injustice by not speaking up.....

More on Dave Ramsey....

2008-09-29T14:09:00.000-07:00

If you have the chance to go through Financial Peace University (FPU), you need to do it!!! I was a bit hesitant because someone said they thought you had to share all your numbers with the class. I also was unsure if I wanted to pay for the class when I had A Total Money Makeover....and although I had not implemented anything, I knew the basics. Lastly, I wasn't sure it was for us....our finances are in pretty good order. WRONG on all counts....you don't share your numbers in our class....yes, I had the book BUT had done nothing with it and EVERYONE can benefit and improve from Dave Ramsey!!!!!

Lots of things are just common sense but it seems common sense is in short supply these days. We are an instant gratification generation. Our Great grandparents and grandparents didn't believe in debt or credit.
The 1910 Sears catalog said 'buying on credit is folly'.....can you say DISCOVER card?
JC Penney only took cash--that changed on his death.
Ford didn't offer credit until 10 years after GM.

Our grandparents thought debt was DUMB and a SIN!!! Their homes were paid for and so were there cars....today it seems very few people plan to pay off anything. It seems like so many today are caught up in materialism....what can I buy next, what can I change, what do I want in my next house, what about my next car.....

Dave gave some statements that come from rich and poor people--hey if it is you--don't be mad at me--just repeating what DAVE says....and if it hits a nerve--maybe it is an area that you need to work on! :-) He didn't miss any one's toes last week!!!
POOR PEOPLE QUESTIONS: When buying a car, you ask them to get a payment of X amount...for 5 years or more.

RICH PEOPLE QUESTIONS: When buying a car, you ask them what the car is costing you--and then pay cash. If you are on your way to being rich, you never finance for more than 18 months to 2 years....if it is more than that....look at where you want to be! Once it is paid off--you put the car payment money in an account to save to pay cash for your next car.

DO NOT BUY A NEW CAR unless you have a MILLION dollars in the bank!!! New cars lose 70% of their value in the first 4 years--it is one of the worst investments you can make!! (Side note--when doing your budget--the right way--you figure out what % your transportation allowance is 10-15%....that includes car payments, gas, repairs....go do your math!!!)

HOUSES: NEVER take more than a 15 year fixed rate loan out on a house.

Children do what feels good--don't be a child--YOU ARE AN ADULT!!! Wait until you have the cash. NO it isn't always easy to wait to buy things, go places, or do projects on our house....but YES, it feels GREAT to come back from a vacation we paid for and owe nothing....it feels great to do a house project and not owe on it and we appreciate things so much more that we have saved to buy! These are the ways of Dave....he is a multi-millionaire and a Christian...he knows what he is doing and who he is doing it for!
I think we have about 60 families in our class--our consumer debt is $1,072,000....that includes NO homes...just something to think about!!!

Check out Dave's site for a FPU near you!
http://www.daveramsey.com/

DAVE RAMSEY ROCKS!!!

2008-09-18T11:42:00.000-07:00

Okay, Okay...so it was July when I thought I was back on track.....and it is now September! I just have to say Dave Ramsey ROCKS!!!!! We are taking Financial Peace University (FPU) right now....and WOW!!!!! We are good with money but we want to be great--and DEBT-FREE!!!! I have several things that have really hit me--common sense but not in practice. I want to share several of the things but will have to do it a bit later!! If you have the chance to take FPU....DO IT!!!! We bought The total money makeover--awesome stuff but I had not implemented it. The FPU class makes you accountable--you have homework--so it has to be done!!! We had all written down our consumer debt total...everything but the house payment--and I was AMAZED at the debt our class has.....I just can not say enough about Dave Ramsey....God has given him a gift--not only is he great with money--using common sense things but he is so fun to listen to!!!! We were laughing our heads off--in a financial class--I look forward to the videos each week--and leave even more motivated!!! That is the difference in the book and doing the class along with it--the support group of like minded people is great!!!

I am back and getting on track!!!

2008-07-14T15:15:00.001-07:00

I feel like I have been on a hiatus from saving, coupons and good deals!! I have to get back in gear--who doesn't love to save?! I want to get our budget done--and stick to it--I have MS Money....so what am I waiting for? I need to be more diligent at checking PPP....signed on last night....opportunity waiting...I missed a couple today....it is easy, easy, easy.....not going to get rich quick but I have $35 deposited in my account and more pending post approval....too easy....and I enjoy it!!! Check out payperpost.com and start making money!!!

Take Control Stem Cell Innovation for Women

2008-07-13T20:51:00.000-07:00

Future Stem Cell Research Therapies May Be Found in Women's Menstrual Blood...whhhhaaaa? Yep...you read that right....keep on reading...
Many people have strong opinions on stem cells and their use....depending on where/how they are harvested.....I would say I am one of those people BUT this press release reveals a possible new way of obtaining them that had never occurred to me!!! I love learning and educating myself on new things and old things....so check out this innovative use of something we have to face as women!! Please read the article on CNNMoney !!

Science and technology have come so far and still have many things in the works! How great would it be to find a way to cure and treat illnesses or diseases with stem cells from something that most women have every month! How great would you feel to be able to extend someone's life or at least play a part in being helpful? That is something that is happening anyway--like it or not--why not help someone with it! I am thankful for the insight God gives to men and women to develop these life helping and life saving ideas! Keep your eyes on the news and your home page for more cutting edge developments on this process!!!!

Taking Control: Future Therapies for a Host of Serious Diseases May Be Found in Women's Menstrual Blood!!!

July 07, 2008: 01:28 PM EST

OLDSMAR, Fla., July 7 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- With today’s hectic lifestyle, where most women are juggling careers, family, relationships, and a host of activities, the idea of possibly facing a serious illness in the future is not something that readily comes to mind -- especially when a woman is in the prime of her life. But what most women don’t know, is that the key to treating a number of possibly life-threatening diseases that she, a parent, a sibling or even her children may face in later years, such as osteoporosis, heart disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, may be found within her own body -- in vital stem cells, which can now be harvested from her own menstrual blood.

Now, thanks to the revolutionary research and technology of C’elle, a service dedicated to providing women with a safe and easy method of collecting and preserving stem cells found in her menstrual fluid each month, even the busiest woman can take control of her future, right in the privacy of her own home. With C’elle’s non-invasive collection process, menstrual cells are processed and cryo-preserved (stored at a very low temperature) for potential cellular therapies that may be used in the future. These self-renewing cells one day may even be used for sports medicine or cosmeceutical treatments, such as anti-aging therapies.

Tough Economy? Take control...with the click of a mouse on a pop-up calendar to mark your next cycle, order C'elle online for a limited-time introductory price at www.Celle.com

For more information about C’elle, please call 1-877-892-3553 or visit www.celle.com.

2008-06-11T16:21:00.000-07:00

Proverbs 13:20 Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.
ARRRRGGGGHHHH!!! OK so this is a vent....the top is a reminder to me!!! We are very aware of what we spend--and try to be responsible and frugal while enjoying life!!!! It is sooooo frustrating to me when people complain about money but spend it like there is no end to their account.....now hear what I said--they complain about having no money but are always buying what they want!!!! We do not want debt and will not take anything from others....so we save until we can afford things. I know that all I should care about is my own finances but it is so frustrating to be on this mission to be debt free--and it is so good to say we won't have a house payment in just over 3 years!!!! That should be all the reward I need to keep me focused but when we make the conscious effort to not buy unnecessary things or save money until we can save cash for what we want to do....it gets a little hard to see immediate gratification.....

So God has me where I am supposed to be because I am surrounded by great debt slayers this week.....thanks God for putting good friends and good stewards around me! Thank you for allowing me to vent!!

Free Krispy Kreme doughnut today!!!

2008-06-06T05:11:00.000-07:00

It is National Doughnut Day......
To mark the occasion, doughnut purveyor Krispy Kreme is offering a free calorie bomb. You can choose one of any of their varieties at participating stores.

A little history....It is always on the first Friday in June......
The celebration was launched in 1938, in the depths of the Great Depression, as a Salvation Army fund-raiser honoring the volunteer “lassies” who served coffee and fresh doughnuts by the thousands to homesick soldiers in France during World War I.

I am loving Pay Per Post!!!

2008-05-30T08:11:00.001-07:00

Making money while being home doing something fun--I am doing it!!! Don't listen to me if you are looking for a get rich quick scheme...but I have done my 4th blog....and you get to pick what you blog on....you don't HAVE to do anything you don't want to! I think it is fun to read about things I didn't know about--so it is fun to write....but again only things I am OK with writing about! I just got my first deposit!!! Check it out!!! Your first approved post is $20!!! Check out the site....
I just don't want to be selfish and keep it to myself!!! The customer service has been great to answer any questions I have had!!!

Is it too early to think about Christmas shopping?

2008-05-29T16:40:00.000-07:00

It is never to early to think about Christmas shopping, is it? I love a good deal, who doesn't! What I don't like are the crowds, getting up early and waiting in long lines!!! Do you ever shop on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving? What if I told you there is a website that lets you buy Black Friday items without all the hassle of those long lines, getting up early and crowds??? Well this site exists!!! Get a jump on your Christmas shopping by checking out black-friday.net!!!! The site also offers email updates to let you know when new black Friday ads are posted!

I am sure you can find your favorite store--I found several! Target, Kohl's, Circuit City is always good for dh and Tommy Hilfiger is always a hit!! So check it out for toys, sporting goods, home goods, office goods, books.....it is endless and it will help you get a great list started for Christmas!!!! If you are a planner and love to save money this is perfect for you!!!! So why are you still here....hurry go check it out!!!!

Gas is making everything higher

2008-05-15T23:11:00.000-07:00

In case you didn't know....how could you not.....the prices at the grocery store are effected....my friend's lawn mowing service has a gas surcharge....and now I just noticed my electric bill is higher--depends on how much you use but I did the math and we are paying 10-11 dollars more this month!!! So...what am I doing...continuing to look at the store ads for the good deals, and working on getting even better at coupons! I saved about $25 between coupons and BOGOs and store sales yesterday.....but I know I can do better....I am working on stockpiling up what I can when it is on sale....next week, I want to see if I can not go to the grocery store at all and use things on our shelves....it is a shame to say we have nothing to eat....when there are people who really don't.....so looking over the pantry and freezer, I will make my menu for next week.....other than a few staples....I think I can spend almost nothing on groceries this week.

Since we bought that car in March, I am on a mission to pay it off in 18 months or less...preferably less!!! Debt free--that includes the house is less than 4 years away!!!

Lap Band surgery

2008-05-15T14:55:00.000-07:00

Not sure what your opinion is on lap-band surgery but I do know in some cases it can be helpful. Many people have tried--and it is not always easy to lose weight....if you are not in that position or have not been in that position--don't judge. It can be a life saving and life changing procedure. If you are seeking this type of treatment, check out Dr. Collier's site, lapband houston , for more information. The site can tell you if you qualify with a BMI calculator, there are success stories and free seminar information!!!

Dr. Richard Collier is a Lap-Band Surgery Specialist, who provides a comprehensive Lap-Band©, weight loss surgery program as an alternative to the more invasive Gastric Bypass Surgery in The Woodlands, Conroe, Houston, Kingwood, and Spring, Texas areas. His premier weight loss program combines his well respected 30 year level of surgical experience with a highly-praised after care team program approach for patients following their surgery.

FREE sandwich at McDonald's--just today May 15th

2008-05-15T10:48:00.000-07:00

McDonald's is giving away a free Southern Chicken sandwich today, with the purchase of a medium or large soft drink. If you go in the morning/breakfast hours(7am-10:30), you must purchase a large coffee or a medium to large soft drink & you will get the Southern chicken biscuit free. Dinner time hours(10:30am-7:00pm), purchase requirement is a medium or large soft drink & you get the Southern chicken sandwich.

Money..what can we do with it!

2008-05-13T06:06:00.000-07:00

5 things you can do with your money:
1. Spend it
2. pay back debt
3. taxes
4. save it
5. give it
(HOW MOST OF US DO IT)

or consider this order:
1. give
2. save
3. taxes
4. reduce debt
5. spend

It becomes more important to me to see where the dollars are going as gas has continued to climb!!! $.46 in one month and still climbing....I just wanted to share a few points from a lesson a few Sundays back.....

Lust of the eye--you didn't NEED it until you saw it! Set boundaries!!! (I am good at this in most areas except I love to buy for my girls!! So I need to NOT buy clothes just because they are cute or on sale....how many clothes do they really need, seriously!)

Everyone lives that way....well so what...it is NOT OK....I do not want to be a slave to debt!!!

God loves a cheerful giver....give anyway--you can become cheerful later! Break the cycle of greed....and watch how you get money back...an unexpected check in the mail, a cheaper bill, a free prescription, the thing you need is on sale for super cheap.....it is kind of fun to see where the blessings show up!!

Create a budget!
1. find you annual income (net)
2. Debts (home, utilities, clothes) how much you spend!

One big point that was made that stuck with me follows. We are a nation of gratify now--Parents and grandparents delayed and saved until they could pay--and they appreciated it much more. We rush out and borrow money to have it done NOW not when we can pay cash. So what are you teaching your kids--something to think about! Think of what you can do for your children and your grandchildren if you were debt free!
Ending with 2 verses:

Proverbs 13:20 Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble.

Proverbs 16:3 Commit your plans to the Lord, and your plans will succeed.

Q-Ray Bracelet....check it out!!!!

2008-05-12T09:11:00.000-07:00

Do you like jewelry? Well, you should check out the Q-Ray bracelet. I love things that are practical--not all the bangles type jewelry....so this is perfect!! It is worn by professional athletes, celebrities and people with an active life style! Why...because it is fashionable and not in the way!! It holds 3 patent designs....you can hear what others that have the Q-Ray bracelets have to say about it at QRay Bracelets !!!!

DisclosurePolicy.org

If you don't set goals, you will NEVER reach them!

2008-05-06T20:05:00.000-07:00

I can't wait until our activities wind down this month! My goal is to set goals! I want to make out my budget and get to My Total Money Makeover!!! Jennifer at All Things Frugal is always reminding me I can do better! So, I added up what we spent on eating out in the last 30 days--and remember we are limited in that area--and I was sick at what we spent! So with Dave and his cash system at the grocery store, using more coupons and cutting back in the just plain wasteful spending.....I am excited to see what we will do!!!!

So, I checked out Aldi's and was not disappointed!! I spend $53 and was amazed at all that I got! I have been told that most of the things people have bought there are as good as name brands and they do carry some name brands. As gas and grocery costs keep creeping higher, I am finding I am not such a brand name snob on my food! I have been slowly venturing into store brands here and there over the last year or so but am cranking it up as my check out prices keep getting higher! I am finding my taste buds are OK with everything I have tried to date! The pictures at the top are of all the things I bought for $53!!! Fresh fruits and Veggies, bread, eggs, pizzas, ground turkey, french toast sticks, cereal, spaghetti and sauce, salsa, cookies, ham, shredded cheese, sliced cheese, cinnamon rolls.....ooohhhh...I can't wait to go back and save more money!

Setting goals and achieving them....

2008-05-01T13:20:00.000-07:00

I just read a post from a couple of homeschool families that really inspired me in a few ways. I hear people complain that they have no money yet they always have the latest clothes and toys. I hear people complain that they can't afford to take vacations....

Well, I just read one Mom that homeschools and is a single MOM. Then I read about a family with a limited budget--the kids want to go on vacation--guess what--they are earning it!! I am so independent and I am teaching my kids that--we don't do it if we can't afford it....we don't borrow or have someone else pay for anything...sometimes I think it would be nice to have someone to pay for things--but then I realize the lessons my kids see.....and they are priceless! They know the value of a dollar--yes they still ask for toys but no they don't get them. They see us save to buy things and plan our vacations...do they get all the budgeting--not yet but it will rub off....and we will raise good money managers--they will be the lender NOT the borrower!!! The head and not the tail...the first...not the last!

This last paragraph is from the family that is earning their vacation:

Our philosophy on 'I don't have the money" is "go to work". Our kids want to go on vacation this year, but we have a limited budget for that. They want to have some "spending money" while there so they are taking 3 weeks while Daddy is off and doing lawn care. You can easily make money during the summer cutting grass and cleaning up lawns and in the fall by raking leaves. If people truly want something they will find a way to get it...sell something or don't buy that big screen TV! hahahaha

money, money, money

2008-04-30T03:41:00.000-07:00

Everyone needs it....everyone wants to save more of it, everyone wants to make more of it....some people have easy ways of making it....lots have an easy time spending it.....as for me I am hoping to make some and pay off our house and car quicker....check out payperpost.com--there is a link to the left....it is quick and easy and FUN and you make a little extra money!

I have looked at different ways to make just a little extra money at home--they all promise $10,000 a week...come on--who believes that....this doesn't promise that and if it did I wouldn't be here! Being home with my kids is the most important thing to me...so I am so excited to be able to contribute financially--even just a little helps. I am working on saving us money through coupons, we are pretty decent shoppers for clothes--yep...you will see my kids and myself repeat clothes...especially if you see us on a regular basis....they will wear their clothes out because they WEAR them.....we don't spend $30K or $40k or more on cars--we don't buy new cars--the goal is to pay it off in 18 months or less--if we can't so that--we don't buy it--simple.....we don't carry balances on our credit cards....and if we can't afford it, we wait until we can--it makes it much sweeter having to wait to buy something until you can afford it, you appreciate it so much more--so we are doing pretty good in terms of getting debt free....this extra money will help and I am happy to be able to help!

Pay Per Post...so excited!!!

2008-04-29T08:55:00.000-07:00

I have joined the world of pay per post! I am so excited as this is a great way to express my opinions--I love doing that--and finding new exciting deals!! The best thing is I can do this from my house--in my pjs--and make a little extra money! I learned about pay per post from an on-line friend and she is doing great with it--check out her blog, All Things Frugal on blogger to see how she is spending her money and how much she has made!!! I was inspired by her because, as I said, I love to write and who doesn't love to make extra money!?! I am hoping PayPerPost is the way to do it!!!

I would love to use the extra money to pay off our house even faster....or it could go to a car payment....or groceries...or gas....come on who couldn't use extra money for gas! I am just so excited to feel like I can be at home with my kids and still contribute some financial help!

I would encourage any of you out there in blog land to check out pay per post for fun things to write about and make a little money...I am ready to get started!!! You are free to pick and choose topics that interest you--I will do a monthly update on how much I have earned while having fun with this new venture!

http://payperpost.com/bloggers/ethics.html

FREE PICTURES!!!!

2008-04-28T20:53:00.000-07:00

I copied this from http://allthingsfrugal.blogspot.com/.....you should check out her site--she ahs great advice!!!

400 Free Prints & Free Photo Book
Woo Hoo!!If I love a deal on anything, it's pictures!Scrapbooking is dear to my heart, so I take lots of snapshots.ArtsCow is giving away 400 prints (a combination of 4x6 AND 5x7's!) and a free 8x8 photo book if you sign up now.I can guarantee this offer won't last long, so I would do it NOW.I signed up and it took less than three minutes.So go to ArtsCow today and sign up.What are you waiting for? :o)Get your free 400 prints & photo book, here.

Aldi....

2008-04-22T08:24:00.001-07:00

I was told about Aldi the other day...and then read about it in the money savings book. Well, my plan was to go there yesterday but we didn't make it because I had a sick baby! I have heard that you can easily save $30-40 on what you would normally buy. You pay a quarter for a cart but your get it back when you are done shopping. I think you pay .10 a bag but think you can bring your own bags......if you have been please share you experiences and opinions!!

http://www.aldifoods.com/index_ENU_HTML.htm

Savings.....think cheap!

2008-04-18T07:16:00.000-07:00

There are a few things that I have been unwilling to switch brands on....Mayfield milk--just used to it and Cascade--cheaper brands leave spots.....Welllllll......I did it! I found a cheap brand of dishwashing detergent--Sun Source at the dollar tree--and it works GREAT no SPOTS!!!! And it is only $1.00!!!! I also made the switch to Great value milk this week--and I am alive and have more money --no worse the wear and can't tell a difference.....!! I also bought a book called 101 ways to pay less for almost anything....for .25!!!! I will let you know if I find any HOT tips!!!!

thoughts.....

2008-04-15T10:58:00.000-07:00

There are just a couple of things I wanted to share about the weekend.
1. Parked at a local grocery store...Thomas ran in to get something....his door was unlocked but the rest were locked. I am always on the look out for people--OK--I know I am a bit paranoid but I want to stay safe! So, I glance at the little man coming out of the store headed in our direction--65-70 white hair cute grandpa.....nothing to worry about...people around and he looked harmless (yes, I know you can't go on looks)....so he reaches for the door, glances in the back and realizes it isn't his car because there are kids....but he saw me looking so he came back and opened the door and said, "I am sorry, I am old and drunk!" He was kidding and it was too funny--his wife was laughing her head off--they were parked 2 spots over!

2. We take for granted the no smoking in restaurants here!! We were out of state and in a BK--the little cheap ashtrays on the table and people smoking!!! Ugh!!! We couldn't get out fast enough!!!

I guess that is all I will share for now...gotta run!!

Gift Card

2008-04-07T20:53:00.000-07:00

Yeah me! I got a free Target gift card today!!! I had to get a RX filled so I had it sent to Target--where I would get a FREE $10 gift card for a new or transferred RX. Watch those coupons!! I also enjoyed a FREE smoothie!!! What a day....how I love saving money!!!

Target Dollar BIns

2008-04-04T14:51:00.001-07:00

CHECK them out!!! There are great treasures just waiting to be found!!! Some of our treasures today included:

nature series puzzles--great pictures--24 piece puzzles--great to do and then pick an animal and look it up!

paint by numbers

butterfly garden and wildflower garden seed mixes--we will have some sort of landscaping this year--the kids are so excited to plant!!

They also have a lot of scrapbook stuff too!!! Gotta LOVE that store!!!!!

surprise money!

2008-04-03T14:02:00.000-07:00

An on-line friend had posted the other day about unexpected refunds....well God blessed us with one today! I thought it was a bill--nothing better than unexpected money when you think it is a bill!!! Only $25.71 but hey....no complaints here!

We took our ink for refilling at Wal-greens--they will be done on Saturday. I have wanted to try that--it is so much cheaper--but had been afraid to spend the money and it not be any good.....so now I can try it and it was free!

Wal-green's has FREE ink refill!!!!

2008-04-02T05:25:00.000-07:00

I love discounts and free things and have really enjoyed all teh coupon savings and free things I have come across. Here is Walgreen's coupon--for APRIL 2--ONLY.....free ink cartridge refill!!!

http://www.walgreens.com/dmi/inkrefill/default.html?ec=hn522p_getcoupon

Sunday's lesson!

2008-03-31T19:10:00.000-07:00

I have to share what we talked about in Sunday School yesterday. The lesson pertained to marriage and finances.
Figure out what % of your income you are living on! Do not live on 100%....and if you are cut back...there are always things that are not needed!!! You have to know where you are going or you will never get there!!! So know what % you are living on!

Children will live like you do--teach your children well!!

4 things that are very important to a successful marriage
1. religion (being the same/agreeing on it)
2. in-laws (HAVE to set boundaries!)
3. parenting (how to raise them)
4. money

Happy Saturday

2008-03-29T08:04:00.001-07:00

I hope everyone had a good week....we did and have landed on Saturday....the week flew by! I wanted to share a new link as a cable TV option from a Christian perspective. It was shared on a yahoo board by a family that was tired of all the garbage their kids were being exposed to and I am talking about commercials!

http://www.skyangel.com/

Blogs and things

2008-03-27T10:57:00.000-07:00

This blog thing is so much fun and so easy! I am telling everyone to do it! I love keeping up with my friends and getting pictures and this just makes it so easy!

It is step by step to set it up....and it is free! What a great tool for communication! Sign up with blogger.com today....

Patches

2008-03-26T14:58:00.000-07:00

Here are a couple of pictures of Patches......again just keep them in your prayers...it was sudden...she wasn't ill and they are hurting. Don't hear me comparing this to a human loss but the pain is real all the same!

Loss of a friend

2008-03-26T10:08:00.001-07:00

The latest in random things....death of a pet....my parents just lost their dog, Patches. She has been a faithful friend and snuggle companion for many years. Some don't understand how you can be upset over the loss of an animal--to them I say--you must either 1. not be a pet owner or 2. be cold. Our pets have always been like part of the family....so I ask that you lift them up as they are heartbroken today over the loss of a faithful friend!!! (It was also unexpected--she had shown no signs of being sick)

BB9

2008-03-25T17:48:00.000-07:00

Big Brother....does anyone watch it? I have to admit it is my favorite Reality TV show! I love that it is on 3 nights a week....I get so mad.....crack up laughing....and left hanging on the cliff.....who will be the next head of house? It is the one reality show that I don't think I can tire of.....they do add twists and new things to try and keep it fresh but there is just something about that house that keeps me hooked!

Survior--over it Amazin Race--over it American Idol--over it Next Top Model--over it The Bachelor--COME ON--but BB9.......still watching....

Do you use coupons....

2008-03-24T06:05:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a Happy Easter! We did....any time with family and friends is always good! I wanted to share some coupon sites that have been shared with me...one is free and one is paid but so minimal.....there are minimums that you have to order.......I saved so much that the cost was totally worth it!!!

http://www.thecouponmaster.com/ (this one is pay--but so minimal)
http://print.coupons.com/couponweb/Offers.aspx?pid=12933&zid=lw26&nid=10&bid=080324060348tdpwuvlu&cid=14477143%7e14480046%7e14476088%7e14476191%7e14480006%7e14474138 (this one is free)

coupons.....

2008-03-24T05:58:00.000-07:00

Hope everyone had a great Easter! We did....time with family and friends is always great! I wanted to share to coupon sites that have been shared with me. You do pay for the coupons, but it has been so worth it for me....

http://www.thecouponmaster.com/

LOCKED OUT! ha ha

2008-03-22T16:07:00.000-07:00

I am back! I was locked out of here because it picked up as a SPAM blog somehow? So....here is what I hope to see on this blog....money talk, money saving ideas, free samples or great ideas that I have heard about! Just random things....as the name suggests!

So we had a life lesson in math yesterday. We bought a new car (new to us) and I took the opportunity to explain why you borrow money from a bank--cars or houses were the only things I told them. I want them to have good financial heads on their shoulders! Then I told them to pay the money back as fast as possible! I love when life happens and you get to make it a teachable moment!

Happy Easter!!!

Money....

2008-03-20T07:34:00.000-07:00

I have just read the book The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey....it is packed full of budgeting ideas and ways to save money--many of which you have thought of but aren't doing.....and many that are so common sense, we over look them! I am so motivated to make this life changing that I recommend it to everyone!!!