YTD Savings

Around March or so, I decided to create a spreadsheet to help me keep track of my coupon & rebate savings. According to my calculations, I have saved a total of $2,991.09 by using coupons, and earned $1,030.32 in rebates, for a total of $4,021.41!

For 2009, I've decided to keep track of how much I spend at each of my store trips, so I can get a better idea of just how much I am saving (or spending).

So, for those who don't use coupons or do rebates, let this be an eye opener for you that you really can save money with them! Of course, I'm still learning, there are folks out there who spend very little, if anything out of pocket for their groceries. One day, hopefully, I will be just like that.

HAPPY NEW YEAR everyone!

Week of 12/28/08-1/3/09

WOW! I can't believe that at the end of this week we'll be into 2009! Where has time gone?! Anyways, here are some deals I think are noteworthy for this week:

Walgreens
Glade Scented Oil candle holder $3.99
Use $2.50 coupon from 12/7 insert
$1 Easysaver rebate
= $0.49 out of pocket

Scotch packing tape $1.99
Use $1 coupon from 11/23 insert
=$0.99 out of pocket

Dawn dish soap $0.99
Use $1/2 coupon from 12/14 insert
= $0.98/2 out of pocket

Fusion Razor $8.99
Get $3 register rewards when you buy one
Use $4 coupon from 12/28 insert
Use FREE Gillette bodywash or shampoo coupon from 12/14 insert
like paying $1.99 for razor & bodywash (or shampoo) after register rewards

Dr Scholls Massaging Gel Insoles 2/$20
Get $10 register rewards when you buy two
Use 2 $2 internet printable coupons
like paying $6/2 after register rewards

Auto Expressions Vent Fresh elite auto freshener $4.99
FREE after rebate from Walgreens
Moneymaker when you submit for manufacturer rebate

Rite Aid
Crest ProHealth toothpaste
$2.49- $1 SCR - $1 manuf (11/30 insert)=$0.49

Orajel Antiseptic mouth sore rinse
$5.99 - $5.99 SCR= FREE

Pampers
10.99-$1 manuf= $9.99

JC Penney rewards

When doing some after Christmas shopping today, I noticed a brochure about a new rewards program at JC Penney.

Here are the details:
Earn a JC Penney Card bonus when you shop using your JCP card, you get 25% extra points
Earn 1 point on all regular & sale priced purchases when you shop in store, online or by catalog.
Reach 250 point in a month & you get a $10 JCP rewards certificate.

To sign up, go to www.jcprewards.com, enter promo code 1011 where prompted (from the back of the brochure I picked up, in no way associated with myself), register your credit card(s), start shopping & earning points!

Like Santa?

This morning while laying in the bed cuddling, my (almost) 3 year old son, Lucas, rolled over to me and told me I was just like Santa. When I proceeded to ask him why, his response was: "Because you're big and fat!" Boy, was I sorry I asked.

Sales this week 12/14-12/20/08

Walgreens
99c Progresso soups w/ in ad coupon, use $1.10/1 IP for 11c overage!
Pampers $10.99, use $1.50 manuf = 9.49

Rite Aid
Gift of Savings program still going on, enter all receipt information to earn your extra rebate up to $20

99c Blistex , use 25c off any manuf = 0.74
Select Xmas movies $3.99 FAR
Nicorette (100-110ct), $10 RA coupon, $10 IP = $32.99
Huggies, $2 RA coupon, $1.50 manuf = $8.99 - $1 caregivers marketplace = $7.99
BOGO Halls sugar free cough drops, use 50c manuf = $1.99/2
Mentos gum, use $1/2 manuf, (2) 55c RA = 88c/2

Super Fresh (ends Thursday 12/18)
Pepsi 12 packs 4/$11 WYB $25 additional items (ends Monday 12/15)
Pampers $10.99 - $1.50 manuf = $9.49

P&G Year of Savings
Purchase $50 worth of P&G products (doesn’t have to be on 1 receipt) & receive a booklet of coupons worth $120+, purchases must be made 12/14 or after

Pampers Gift to Grow program
Enter WEAPPRECIATEU08 for 10 points credited to your account.

Fernando Guerrero press conference

Today at 12pm sharp, there was a press conference at Black Diamond Lodge in Fruitland, Maryland with Fernando Guerrero & his trainer/manager, Hal Chernoff. The purpose was to tell his fans the details of his next fight, to be held here in Salisbury on Friday, February 6, and will be televised on ESPN.

I'm super excited about this, even though I'm not a huge boxing fan, but after watching his first fight here in Salisbury, I'm hooked. He's a super great guy, doing everything he can to get the community together, and even giving back to the communities that support him. As an entrance "fee" to the press conference today, you were supposed to bring a canned good and/or a toy for Toys for Tots. When my husband & I left, it looked like they got a pretty decent assortment of gifts, but the canned good collection containers had already been removed.

Fore more details about the fight, you'll have to keep watch here as I'm sure Joe will have some pics & details to post later.

Here are some pics my hubby & I got with the fighter:

FREE Sesame Street book from Earth's Best

Click here for more details.

Teach your child wholesome habits about nutrition, exercise, hygiene, and good sleep with these "Happy Healthy Monsters" books from Sesame Street. These stories feature your child's favorite Sesame Street characters, who make learning fun.

Get your free book by mailing in 2 UPCs from Earth’s Best Sesame Street Products, plus shipping and handling. Then one of these four titles will arrive in the mail.

Sales this week 11/30-12/6/08

RITE AID
The Gift of Savings is still going on, so be sure to enter all your receipt information, even if you didn't purchase rebate items.

Noteables this week, include:
Gillette Fusion men's razor $9-$5 SCR-$4 manuf coupon=FREE
Duracell batteries=B3G2 FREE, great for the buy $20 get $10 SCR, don't forget to use the $1.50 manuf coupons that have been in the inserts recently. Time to stock up for all those batteries you'll need for toys Christmas morning! There is also a $2 coupon in the RA flyer which is good on 12 pack, makeing them &7.49 each. Not sure if the B3G2 free deal works with this or not.
Nicorette gum is on sale for $39.99-$5 SCR-$ manuf coupon (I have several, the highest is a $8 value)
The Gillette Fusion razor gift set is also a nice gift for that hard to buy for man at only $5.99 when you use the $4 manuf coupon on it instead of the single razor.

SUPER FRESH
Has triple coupons again this week, so if you didn't use all your coupons under $1 last week, use them up this week. With 2 weeks of triples in a row, who knows when we'll see them again.

Get $10 worth of Pillsbury coupons by signing up on their website.

WALGREENS
There is a $5/$25 coupon available on the Wags website. They're changing things up again, making it off a larger amount, and also making it valid on Monday & Tuesday. There's only 1 FAR item for this month, so a good time to get it if you haven't already.

What have you done?

Because I'm unoriginal, and don't want to sit & think about what to post today, I stole this from my friend, Erin....Thanks for the idea!

So, here goes (things I've done are in bold):

1. Started your own blog
2. Slept under the stars
3. Played in a band
4. Visited Hawaii
5. Watched a meteor shower
6. Given more than you can afford to charity
7. Been to DisneyWorld
8. Held a praying mantis
9. Climbed a mountain
10. Sang a solo
11. Bungee jumped
12. Visited Paris
13. Watched a lightning storm at sea
14. Taught yourself an art from scratch
15. Adopted a child
16. Had food poisoning
17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty
18. Grown your own vegetables
19. seen the Mona Lisa
20. Slept on an overnight train
21. Had a pillow fight
22. Hitch hiked
23. Taken a sick day when you're not ill
24. Built a snow fort
25. Held a lamb
26. Gone skinny dipping
27. Run a Marathon
28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice
29. Seen a total eclipse
30. Watched a sunrise or sunset
31. Hit a home run
32. Been on a cruise
33. Seen Niagara Falls in person
34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors
35. Seen an Amish community
36. Taught yourself a new language
37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied
38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person
39. Gone rock climbing
40. Seen Michelangelos David
41. Sung karaoke
42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt
43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant
44. Visited Africa
45. Walked on a beach by moonlight
46. Been transported in an ambulance
47. Had your portrait painted
48. Gone deep sea fishing
49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person
50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris
51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling
52. Kissed in the rain
53. Played in the mud
54. Gone to a drive-in theater
55. Been in a movie
56. Visited the Great Wall of China
57. Started a business
58. Taken a martial arts class
59. Visited Russia
60. Served at a soup kitchen
61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies
62. Gone whale watching
63. Got flowers for no reason
64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma
65. Gone sky diving
66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp... Dachau, the most depressing place I've ever been.
67. Bounced a check
68. Flown in a helicopter
69. Saved a favorite childhood toy
70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial
71. Eaten Caviar
72. Pieced a quilt
73. Stood in Times Square
74. Toured the Everglades
75. Been fired from a job
76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London
77. Broken a bone
78. Been on a speeding motorcycle
79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person
80. Published a book
81. Visited the Vatican
82. Bought a brand new car
83. Walked in Jerusalem
84. Had your picture in the newspaper
85. Read the entire Bible
86. Visited the White House
87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating
88. Had chickenpox
89. Saved someone's life
90. Sat on a jury
91. Met someone famous
92. Joined a book club
93. Lost a loved one
94. Had a baby (or two)
95. Seen the Alamo in person
96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake
97. Been involved in a law suit
98. Owned a cell phone
99. Been stung by a bee
100. Read an entire book in one day

Rebate company files for bankruptcy!

Thanks to my friend Kris for giving me the heads up on this story.

Apparently, there is a rebate company who has filed for bankruptcy. If you go here, you can read the entire story for more details on what companies/rebates have been affected.

Baby, Let's Go Green!

I had a wonderful lady named Debbie String recently send me several packages of her product, called Fresh Sacks, so I'm giving away a box to 1 lucky reader. They are available at Walgreens, and typically cost $8.99 If you go to her website, there is a $5 rebate on there, which ultimately makes them $3.99 for the box! They are available in boxes of 25, 50 or 250. What's even better, is that they're biodegradeable, so they don't harm the environment (hence the title of this post)!

In addition to the box of Fresh Sacks, I will also send the winner a reuseable shopping bag.

To enter, please leave me a comment. If you subscribe to this blog, then you will receive an extra entry, but you must leave a separate comment telling me that you did so. Be sure that I have a way to contact you, either through your blog and/or an email address.

Contest is open until Sunday, November 24th at 6pm (eastern time). At that point, I will choose the winner using a random number generator. Winner will have until Wednesday to contact me with their mailing information. Good luck!

SUPER Diaper Deal!!!

Thanks to my friend, Meliss, for bringing this to my attention!

Go over to Amazon to score some Huggies diapers, size 1-2, for $0.12 per diaper. Hurry though, not sure how long this deal will last! Too bad my daughter is past this size now, or I'd be all over it!

ETA: It gets even better...We're talking $0.05 per diaper if you spend $25 (2 boxes) you can get a $15 rebate (or Cookie magazine subscription if you so choose, but then your diapers aren't $0.05 each)!

Bloggy Winners!

Random Integer Generator
Here are your random numbers:
38
57
31
Timestamp: 2008-11-02 22:58:41 UTC

So, winners are:
kathy-mom of many
becca
katie stacey at Savannah Stories

I have left you comments on your blogs or emailed you to let you know. If for some reason the winners above don't contact me by Wednesday, Nov 5, then I will choose another winner in your place. CONGRATS!!!! Thanks for all the entries, I hope that you enjoyed what you read & will continue to visit. I look forward to participating in the spring Bloggy Giveaway Carnival.

A tear in my eye

Our doggy died on Labor Day. We're not sure if he was bitten by a snake (we'd seen a few copperheads around recently), or if he ate something he shouldn't have (ie poison). Well, we explained to Lucas that Scraps was in Heaven. Of course, we got the string of "Why" questions when we told him this. His daddy buried Scraps & made a cross to mark his grave in the back yard. Occassionally, Lucas will peer out the back window & mention it, but not recently.

Well, the past 2 mornings, my poor son has whined while getting into the car because he wants to know where Scraps is. You see, Lucas dumped out the remaining portion of his McDonald's dinner on Monday evening, and it's still sitting in the yard, where if Scraps were still with us, he'd have gobbled it up as Lucas was dumping it.

It breaks my heart to see my little boy want his doggy back so badly. He was just getting to the age where they played together. Maybe for Christmas Santa will bring him a puppy....

Home Depot video contest

The Home Depot wants to know how people are saving energy in their home in its "Save Money. Save Energy. Win Big." video contest. Just shoot a short video to show how you're saving money and helping the environment by making your home more energy efficient.

Anyone can log on to www.homedepot.com/youtube to enter their video between now and November 9, 2008. The contest winner will receive a $5,000 Home Depot gift card and up to $2,000 for installed insulation or radiant barrier products from The Home Depot. The energy savings videos should focus on conserving energy in your home and addressing issues to prevent high energy bills. The videos will be judged on relevance to the energy savings theme, originality and creativity. The second and third place winners will receive a $1,500 and $500 gift card, respectively.

Fall Bloggy Giveaway!!!!

It's that time again: Bloggy Giveaway Carnival. Go here for more information, and for a link list of all the blogs participating.

This time around, I'm offering a few things as well:
1--A potluck envelope of coupons to help you save some $ on your grocery bill.
2--Some scrapbooking supplies that I purchased to use, but haven't yet.
3--A box of random things from my "stockpile" This might be shampoo, hair dye, medicine, cleaning supplies, etc. You never know what you might get.

In order to be entered, please leave me a comment. For each of the following you do, you will receive 1 additional entry: subscribe to my blog & participate in my other promotions I have posted about as well. Don't forget to leave me an additional comment letting me know you've done one (or both) of the above. You may also want to consider visiting my business blog to participate in that giveaway as well.

Winner will be chosen on Sunday, Nov 2 after 5pm (Eastern time), using a random number generator, and posting the information here. If there is no way to contact you via your comment, and you haven't contacted me by mid-week (will have a reminder post up once winners are chosen), then I will choose another winner at random. Open to US addresses only, please.

Thanks a bunch! Happy couponing.

Random assortment

FREE Dr Pepper

Terms & conditions for a FREE Taco Bell taco, thanks to someone stealing a base during the World Series.

$5 off $20 at Walgreens on Fri/Sat, Oct 24 & 25.

$5 off $50 at Super Giant, HURRY, expires Oct 25. During step 3 of registration, check the bpx to receive monthly emails and you will get a coupon for $5 off $50 in the November monthly e-newsletter.

Superfresh FREEBIES!

I walked out of Superfresh without paying a dime for all this (and more that I forgot to put in the pic). Everything I bought was either on sale and/or I had coupons for the item. I definately didn't plan on paying nothing, but it was an instant high!

Here's a complete list of everything I bought:
Kellogg's Froot Loops--on sale
Similac ready to feed formula--club savings + $5 coupon
2 Tylenol PM--$3 store coupon + 2 $1 manuf coupon
Stroehman bread--$0.55 manuf coupon (doubled to $1.10)
2 Earths Best baby food jars--$1/2 manuf coupon
2 Kellogg's Poptarts--on sale, $1/2 manuf coupon
Kleenex--$0.75 store coupon + $0.55 manuf coupon (doubled to $1.10)
Edy's ice cream--on sale, $1 manuf coupon
Breyers 6pk Disney yogurt--$0.50 manuf coupon (doubled to $1) + $0.75 store coupon
White Castle hamburgers 6pk--on sale, $0.50 manuf coupon (doubled to $1)
4 Progresso can soups--on sale, 2 $0.50 manuf coupons (doubled to $1 each) + $0.50 store coupon

Superfresh finds!

Here's what I got at SuperFresh last night:


And, I paid a whopping $2.05 out of pocket (which I actually paid with a gift card), after coupons & Bonus savings card!!!!
I used: Free Pampers coupon (from Pampers rewards program), 55c Stroeman bread coupon-doubled to $1.10, 75c/4 Gerber baby food SF store coupon/catalina, $5 Similac "check" What's even better is I hit the $200 mark for the Baby Club reward, so I also got a $20 coupon for my next purchase. Now I'm just hoping there's a triples promo before it expires.


I went in there again today to fill a prescription, and picked up a copy of the Easy Solutions magazine & their sales flyer. You can find a list of the coupons in the ES book here. Don't forget that you can stack a manufacturer coupon with these coupons for extra savings. Notables in this week's sales flyer (for me) include:
Kellogs cereals (Corn Pops, Foot Loops, Apple Jacks) for $1.49 from Oct 17-23 only! There are several printable coupons for Kellogs cereals to use, however, SuperFresh policy is to NOT accept printables. So, my suggestion is to take the SF sales flyer to WalMart (or store of your choice) and have them price match, so you can use the IPs. Rumor has it that My Points also has these coupons available to print as well. If you're not already a member, please leave a comment with your email address & I am happy to send you an invite.
Progresso classic soups are 10/$10 (with card, 18-19oz). There were coupons in last week inserts that are $0.50/2, which would be doubled to $1, so it would be a BOGO situation.
FREE Crocs when you buy $40 worth of P&G products on 1 receipt. Sounds a little daunting at first, but if you buy a box of Pampers, you're over half way there. Use the P&G insert coupons that come out monthly to help you find items you can purchase using coupons for extra savings.

FREEbies for you!

Good for 1 FREE coffee, cappuccino, espresso, freshly brewed coffee, or hot tea from Barnes & Noble. Must be used by 10/31/08. Note that directly under it, there's a coupon for 15% off 1 item.

FREE Arby's beef & cheddar sandwich coupon via email.

Shoebuy.com

Crocs are my weakness....I own a pair of every color in the rainbow (brown, black, light blue, red, pink). Well, almost, but I'm still working on it. Rather than paying full price for them at a retail store, I always buy mine from Shoebuy.com

I'm asking for a favor. Click on this referral link for a $10/$50 purchase coupon. When you sign up & make a purchase, I will receive a gift certificate once 5 of my referrals have made purchases. Did I mention that you will have the opportunity to do this same thing once you join? Oh yeah, and they always offer FREE shipping via UPS, FREE returns, and a price guarantee! Plus, if you make a second purchase within 60 days of your initial purchase, you will get an additional 10% off that order as well.

In addition to using the coupon I send to you, here are some more promo codes you can use for additional savings:
10% off SHOEBUY exp 12/31/08
15% off ENTSHOE15 exp 12/31/08
$5/$50 BUY5 exp 12/31/08

To (hopefully) get some more participation, I'm offering $10 (in the form of cash, PayPal, or a giftcard) to 1 of the first 5 (randomly chosen using a # generator) who use the referral link to sign up AND make a purchase. I can track it, so I'll know who does and does not make purchases. This offer is open through Oct 31. If there are not 5 who participate, then the deal will remain open until I do have 5 participants.

Fresh Sacks diaper disposal bags

Taken from Hot Coupon World:
Hi fellow mom's!! I am a mother of 3 boys, my youngest is 7. I now have a product that I manufacturer, this came about because of my childrens stinky diapers. The product is Fresh Sacks. They are a scented, odor neutralizing, degradable bags to dispose of the stinky diaper. We were so blessed to get shelf space with Walgreen's but if we don't sell the product they will not buy more. How do I get the word out about my product??? They are on the baby aisle near the ointments. Fresh Sacks come on a roll of 250 bags for $8.99, but if you go to my website there is a rebate for $5.00. www.freshsacks.com So you will only be paying $3.99. Can anyone give me some good advice. We can not afford advertising at the moment, but maybe with your help someday we can. Or maybe we won't need it if I get some good tips.....

A mom trying to make it happen!!!
Debbie String
800-371-0395

While I haven't tried these myself, it seems like a fantastic idea, especially when you are out & about with no where to dump that stinky package. Part of the reason I haven't tried them is because I can never find them at my Walgreens...but, next time I'm in there (which isn't too terribly often), I'm going to ask someone to help me find them.

Rite Aid deals 10/12-10/18

It's about time that Rite Aid offer some freebies. It's been pretty sparse the last few weeks, at least for me. Well, they're making up for it this week. Just wish I didn't have to front so much money to get the items first. I have a $30 gift card I will use for some of it, from transferring a prescription there, but that won't cover everything free after reabte--guess I'll just have to be selective in what I buy.

Thanks to jerzyaltyangl, hatch347, SwapSavers & BudgetQueen at Hot Coupon World for their assistance in finding the coupons & rebates to match up with the deals to give overage! I have posted links for printable coupons, but please remember it is corporate policy at Rite Aid to NOT accept them, however, YMMV.

All rebates are limit one, except noted otherwise. All are Purchase One (1).

Rebate #116
NeilMed
Nasaflo Neti Pot, includes 50 premixed packets
Up to $10.99 SCR
Look out for peelies on this product. Reported to be found: $2 at CVS, $1.50 at Walgreens

Rebate #117
Ayr
Saline Nasal Rinse Kit + 100 refills
Up to $6.99 SCR

Rebate #118
NeilMed
Pediatric Sinus Rinse Starter Kit
Up to $4.99 SCR

Rebate #119
Simply Saline
Sinus Kit
Up to $6.99 SCR

Rebate #120
Theraflu
Warming Relief Liquid, 8.3 oz., any variety
Up to $3.99 SCR

Rebate #121
Excedrin Express Gels
Extra Strength or Tension, 20 ct.
Up to $3.99 SCR

Rebate #122
Triaminic
- Cough Syrup, 4 oz., or
- Congestion Spray, 6.7 oz., or
- Thin Strips, 14 ct., or
- Soft Chews, 18 ct., or
- Vapor Fan, 1ct.
Up to $3.99 SCR

Rebate #123
Children's Advil
Liquid, 4 oz., any flavor
Up to $3.99 SCR

Rebate #124
Children's Throat Cooler
Strawberry or Grape, 6 ct.
Up to $2.99 SCR

Rebate #125
Mentholatum
Cherry Chest Rub for Kids, 1.76 oz.
Up to $2.99 SCR

Rebate #126
Little Colds / Little Noses
Little Noses Saline Mist, 1.7 oz. or
Little Colds Descongestant Plus Cough, 1 oz.
Up to $3.99 SCR

Rebate #127
Simply Saline
Allergy & Sinus Relief or Baby, 1.5 oz.
Up to $3.99 SCR

Rebate #128
Simply Saline
Nasal Mist Cold Formula, 3 oz.
Up to $4.99 SCR

Rebate #129
Hyland's
- Sniffles'n Sneezes 4 Kids, 125 ct., or
- Cough Syrup, 4 oz.
Up to $3.99 SCR

Rebate #130
Breathe Again
Adult or Child Nasal Spray, 3.3 oz.
LIMIT: TWO (2)
Up to $7.99 SCR

Rebate #131
Zucol Coldcare
Original, Menthol or Orange Creme, 18 ct.
Up to $5.99 SCR

Rebate #132
Sambucol Immune System Booster
- Syrup, 4 oz, or
- Lozenges, 30 ct.
Up to $7.99 SCR

Rebate #133
Comtrex
Cough & Cold or Cold & Sinus, 20 ct.
Up to $3.99 SCR

Rebate #134
Bee M.D.
Natural Cough Drops, any flavor, 21 ct.
Up to $2.49 SCR

Rebate #135
Nexcare
Microvex Cold Sore Treatment, 0.07 oz.
Up to $8.99 SCR

Rebate #136
Novitra
Cold Sore Relief Cream, 0.25 oz.
Up to $8.99 SCR

Rebate #137
Orajel Cold Sore Treatment
- Brush, 0.5 oz., or
- Overnight Patch
Up to $6.99 SCR

Rebate #138
Softlips
Lip Conditioner 1 or 2-pack
Up to $2.99 SCR

Rebate #139
Chapstick
True Shimmer, 0.15 oz., any flavor
Up to $1.99 SCR

Rebate #140
Buckley's
Buckley's Cough Mixture or Chest Congestion, 4 oz.
Up to $3.99 SCR

Rebate #141
4Way
Nasal Spray, 0.5 oz.
Up to $3.99 SCR

Rebate #142
Sucrets
Throat Lozenges, 18 ct. or Sucrets Ice
Up to $2.99 SCR

Rebate #143
Chloraseptic Max
- Sore Throat Spray, 1 oz., or
- Max Wildberries Lozenges, 15 ct.
Up to $2.99 SCR

Rebate #144
Lizard Lips
Lip Balm, 0.15 oz
Up to $0.99 SCR

Rebate #145
LypSyl
LypMoisturizer, 1 ct
Up to $1.99 SCR


$3 coupon for rebate #116
NeilMed Pharmaceuticals, Makers of Sinus Rinse, NasaFlo Netipot, Nasal Irrigation

Coupon & Satisfaction Guarantee form for SCR #135
http://www.3m.com/us/home_leisure/Nexcare/ColdSoreTreatment/NCSTCoupon.pdf

http://www.3m.com/us/home_leisure/Nexcare/ColdSoreTreatment/NCSTGuaranteeform.pdf

$1.50 Mail in rebate for SCR #137
http://www.orajel.com/rebate.pdf

$2 Mail in rebate for SCR #142
http://www.sucrets.com/Sucrets_Rebate2008.pdf

BOGO coupon for SCR #124
http://www.throatcooler.com/TC_Buy1get1_FSI_V2_HI.pdf#zoom=125

$2 Mail in rebate for SCR #130

$1 coupon for SCR #123


TheraFlu coupon
Excedrin coupon

I also have a PDF mail in rebate for Sambucol. Please let me know if you would like for me to send it to you via email. Or, if you know a way I can post it on here, let me know & I'll try to figure it out.

Happy Birthday, little brother!

Happy 22nd birthday, "Brother Bear"! I'm sure you might already know it, but then again, you might not, but, you are one of my bestest friends in the entire world, and your neice & nephew think you're a pretty cool dude, too (along with a lot of other peeps I'm sure). Hope you had a good celebration at the fight & dinner before. I love you!

Be Careful!

My brother was sitting at his house (Fruitland) yesterday afternoon when there was a knock at the door. It was a young(er) black man who stated that he needed some $ for gas, his car had run out down the road w/ his "baby mama" in it. My brother stated he had no cash, but he had some quarters he could offer, and told the guy to wait outside. The man then proceeded to push his way into the house & sat on the couch. Roomate casually went to get his golf clubs, just in case. Then the young man followed my brother back to his room, all the while being told to stay outside. My brother gave the guy a handful of quarters, then told him to leave. He did, but then he went right to the next house & did the exact same thing. They called the cops just to give a statement in case something happened in the near future, it would be on record. The cops told them that a similar situation had happened last week to an elderly couple.

I have a cousin who lives in Princess Anne who had the SAME thing happen to her just last week....Except she was home alone w/ her young sons when the man came into her house "to use the phone" because his car had broken down/run out of gas. She told him she'd bring him the phone, and get her husband (who wasn't home), and he should wait outside. She returned to the window to show him a 9mm handgun and demanded he leave NOW. This only agitated him and he argued with her. It took the police over an hour to arrive!

LUCKILY, in these 2 situations, no one was hurt. This is SCARY! Please be aware of who you are answering your door to. Even if it seems harmless, it might not be. It's most definately an eye opener to me....since hearing of these 2 stories, I've heard even more, and not just things that happen at home, but even in public parking lots. With the way things are going in the world right now, it's only bound to get worse, so protect yourself, your family & your belongings when you're out & about!

Excited!!!

I'm SOOOOO excited! I saw a post on a local community board yesterday in regards to some fall/winter clothes for my baby girl. I was able to get the lady down from her $35 asking price to $20, if I came to pick them up. I was excited, but not nearly as excited as I was once I got them home & out of the bag to be washed. The 2 trashbags she gave me have almost single handedly outfitted my daughter for this winter! And these clothes are absolutely ADORABLE & in EXCELLENT condition. I didn't find one piece in there with stains on it or rips/holes in it. They're in the dryer as I type, and since it's supposed to be pretty chilly tomorrow, Miss Caroline might even get to wear one of her new outfits to "school"!


Tomorrow night's the BIG night! It's "Showtime in Salisbury" with a live boxing match to be aired on Showtime, and I'm going to be attending. While I'm not a fan of boxing (really, why would you want to let someone beat the crap out of you, or you do the same to them?? Sorry, I just don't see what "fun" that might be), I'm very excited to be going to see local Fernando Guerrero go for his 10th win, and remain undefeated. This was my birthday present from my folks, and we're lucky enough to be going with my little brother & his girlfriend, to celebrate his own birthday that very night.

Hey, Walmart lady!

To the lady who I was parked next to at Walmart: That wasn't my cart you were pointing at & giving me nasty looks for leaving there. I walked mine over to the cart "garage" but I guess you didn't see it. Had I not had 2 small (& crying) children in the car waiting for my return, I would have walked that one over there as well, just because I hate it when someone leaves their cart right next to my car (yes, I am guilty of this sometimes, too).

I got it!

I got the job I interviewd for in Wicomico! I kinda had a feeling I would, but hadn't heard anything official until today. My first day will be Nov 5. It's doing pretty much the same thing I'm doing now, just a different (busier) atmosphere, and a little closer to home. Although it's not more money, I figure I'll save around $150/week between gas & daycare costs, not to mention the time it will save me, being closer to home. Thanks to all those who said prayers!

High School

This one's from Michelle & Kathy.

1. Did you date someone from your school? no
2. What kind of car did you drive? Toyota Tercel
3. What was the most embarrassing moment of HS? hmmmm, can't think of anything too embarassing
4. Were you a party animal? definately NOT
5. Were you considered a flirt? no
6. Were you in band, orchestra, or choir? band & chorus
7. Were you a nerd? I suppose maybe so
8. Were you on any varsity teams? no
9. Did you ever get suspended/expelled? no
10. Can you still sing the fight song? Do we even have a fight song?!
11. Who were your favorite teachers? D. Wilson
12. Where did you sit during lunch? depending on the weather, outside whenever possible
13. School mascot? eagle
14. Did you go to homecoming, and with who? which year? Michael, Josh, Stephen
15. If you could go back and do it again, would you? not sure
16. What do you remember most about graduation? hanging out afterwards
17. Where did you go on senior skip day? OC
18. Were you in any clubs? You name it, I was probably in it: band, MCJROTC, math club, foreign language club, SADD, NHS, Legal Interns (I'm sure I'm forgetting something)
19. Have you gained some weight since then? ya think? (having kids tends to do that to you)
20. Who was your prom date? Jon T (junior) & Aubrey (senior)
21. Are you planning on going to your 10 year reunion? I hope to, the time has flown, and even though I'm still local, there are a lot of people who I don't see & can't wait to catch up with.

What's Buggin' Ya Wednesday?

The radio station I listen to in the morning had this segment on their morning show today, so I thought I might post it here rather than my usual "Wordless Wednesday"

1. As soon as I get the kids packed in the car for school/daycare in the morning, I smell a poopy diaper, and of course, because I'm running late, have to drive the 45 miles to daycare/school smelling it (or be late to work, which wasn't an option this morning).
2. It bugged me when I heard that the president was speaking tonight at 9pm....I was a little perturbed because for a split second, I was thinking it was Thursday & I was going to miss the opening episode of the new CSI season.
3. I can't find my social security card...and I need it for a job. I was told (or maybe read somewhere) a while ago that you shouldn't carry it in your purse/wallet in case of theft (or losing it, more my luck). Well, I took it out of my purse, but now I can't for the life of me remember where the heck I put it. I found the kids, and thought mine was in the same place, but I've not run across it yet. So, I'm either going to have to look harder (and FAST!) or take some time off work to go the the Social Security office, which will no doubt be more trouble than it's worth. I'm actually hoping that the HR office at my current job has a copy so I can just copy the copy & save me some trouble, even if only for the present time.

OK.....you're turn!

Couples Tag

Since no one has tagged me yet, I took it upon myself to accept Michelle's challenge.

What is his name? Rudy
What is her name? Melissa
How long have you been married? Will be 5 years on Valentine's day.
How long did you date? a year & a half
How old is he? 32
How old is she? 26 on Sunday
Who eats more? I eat more, he eats more often
Who said I love you first? me
Who is taller? Rudy
Who sings better? Me I guess....
Who is smarter? Honestly, I think we're both pretty darn smart!
Who does the laundry? Depends on who needs clean clothes first. Just kidding! Usually I do it, but I make him put his own clothes away (after folding them).
Who pays the bills? I like Marly's answer: "He hands the money to me. I hand it to others."
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Facing the bed, it's him. Laying in the bed, it's me.
Who mows the lawn? That's his job.
Who cooks the dinner? Well, since I burn tea bags, most of the time he does....though on rare occassion, I have been known to throw a pizza in the oven without burning the house down.
Who drives? I do....I don't mind it, and I tend to get carsick when riding. He doesn't much like driving, so it works out well.
Who is more stubborn? He's a typical man in the sense that he never thinks he's wrong.
Who proposed? Rudy
Who is more sensitive? Most definately, me
Who's next? Chad & Maria Jackie & Jason Erin & Nick

Help a girl out!

Fellow blogger Tanya is participating in a walk for autism later this month & is looking to raise some money. Go on over to her blog for more details!

My friend Penny is also doing a fundraiser for the Susan G Komen (breast cancer) foundation. Visit her Etsy shop to see all the beautiful items she's made to promote breast cancer awareness.

Walgreens Deals

There's a $10/$40 coupon out for today (well, yesterday too, but I didn't have a chance to post about it) if you go here.

When I was in there earlier this week, doing the cleaning deal (Buy 7, get $10 RR) and the Robitussin deal (buy 3, get $10 RR), I picked up a flyer that advertises you can get their "Ultimate Value Pack" of pictures for $5.99 if you bring in the flyer (which I dound at the register) and a pic of your little one heading off to school. Sounds like a pretty good deal. The Ultimate Value Pack includes: (3) 8x10, (20) 4x6, (3) 5x7, and (20) wallets. This deal runs through the end of this month.

Wordless Wednesday

Fun Things

My hubby ever so gently reminded me today that I hadn't posted anything on my blog in a few days, and I needed to do so....it's nice to know someone reads what I write. He even knew that tomorrow is "Wordless Wednesday!" :-D

So, just for you, hubby, here is my post for the day. It's a listing of some fund products/promotions that I've run across. Some end soon, so check 'em out quick!

Pull-Ups Big Kid Central potty training DVD

Purchase Baby Orajel, Orajel toddler training toothpaste or Gentle Naturals & receive free product samples, information & bandages in fun designs ($29+ value). Submit original receipt for any product listed above dated 7/15-9/15/08. Mail to: Healthy Kid Kit 375 Lexington Ave New York, NY 10017

$1.50 Orajel rebate

$2 Gentle Naturals rebate

Solo Cups now has a line of Sesame Street products. Their webpage includes coloring pages, recipes, and other fun activities for the kiddies.

Kelloggs promotion--save $1 on produce when you buy 2 qualifying Kelloggs Healthy Beginning products

Aquafina lip balm product review

Let me start off by saying that I have NOT been compensated in any way for posting this product review. I decided to post it simply because I LOVE this product! However, if someone from the manufacturer sees my post & decides to send me something, I certainly wouldn't refuse it ;-)

So we all (or most of us I assume) know that Aquafina makes bottled water. This is my preferred brand of bottled water actually, but that's not what this post is about. Little did I know until about a month ago that Aquafina also has skin care products, bath & body products and lip products.

I was in the check out line at Dollar General, when I saw the lip balm there by the register. I am a self proclaimed lip balm addict. I'm generally a chapstick girl, but have been known to "stray" for another brand (Carmex, Lypsyl, Blistex, etc--and usually only if I have a coupon or it's free). I figured for a dollar, I wouldn't be out much if I didn't like it, so I added it to my pile of things to buy.

I carried it around in my purse for about 2 weeks until finally deciding that I was going to open & use it. Was I surprised! At first, I wasn't sure if I liked it...it was a little minty for my liking, but then again, I kinda liked the tingly feeling it left on my lips, and it smelled so sweet. The square shape is neat too, because it keeps it from rolling away like most other brands of lip balm do. Ingredients include: jojoba oil, almond oil and vitamin E.

Now I can't wait to go out and buy more, in several different "flavors" if they make them like that. According to the Aquafina website, the lip oils come in flavors, but I'm not clear on whether or not the balms do too. I highly suggest that if you should see this item in your travels, pick it up & try it for yourself. You will be pleasantly surprised.

Coupon Links

I am posting a bunch of links for coupons to print, hoping that someone out there can use them. Most you can print 2x (per IP address), but a few you are able to print several more times and/or save to your computer and print at your leisure. Heck, if you want to, print them out & mail them to me to use (the ones with print limits). If you don't mind, leave a comment telling me which ones you printed, so I have a mental note of what kinds of things my readers are looking for. Enjoy!

$2 Seventh Generation diaper product
$1 Seventh Generation baby wipes
$1 Seventh Generation dishwashing product
$1 Seventh Generation cleaning product
$1 Seventh Generation laundry product

$1/10 Earth's Best jar foods
$1/2 Earth's Best Sesame Street products
Buy 5 get 1 FREE Gerber 1st foods
$1/8 Gerber 3rd foods
Buy 2 get 1 FREE Gerber DHA dinners in glass jars
$1/2 Gerber Grads Healthy Meals
$1/2 Gerber Grads fruit twists
$1 Hylands product

$1/5 Smart Ones
$1 Lean Cuisine
$2 South Beach Tide me Over drink mix
Healthy Foods (Green Giant frozen box veggies, Yoplait yogurt, Wheaties cereal, Total cereal, Fiber One cereal, Muir Glen, Cascadian Farms)

Sierra Mist
Buy 4 get 1 FREE Pepsi products

$5 K-mart coupons via email when you sign up

Horizon Organic Milk
Kashi Go Lean cereal
$3/5 SoyJoy bars

$1 Totinos pizza rolls
Deli Creations
Deli Creations #2
$1 Quaker Simple Harvest
$1/2 Delmonte Fruit Chillers
$1 Bush's homestyle chili

FREE bag of Iams pet food (choose from cat or dog, via email)

Wordless Wednesday

Labor Day meme (a day late)

Sorry it's late, but here it is. My friend, Emily, posted this meme on her blog.

How long were your labors?
I never went into labor with my son. I was induced at 38w (and a few days) due to high blood pressure. Even after a full day of pitocin drip, I made no progress, not even enough for the doc to break my water to try to get things moving.

I had a c-section for both kids....unfortunately, I was under the impression that the hospital where I delivered at didn't allow VBAC, so I was okay with it the second time around too. Now that I know different, our next kid (?) will be an attempted VBAC, even if it means that I don't show up there until the head is out.

How did you know you were in labor?
See above...never went into labor with my son.

I did experience some pre-term labor contractions with my daughter (at 34w and some days), and was given a shot of terbutaline to calm them. It worked, and even the contractions I did experience weren't strong enough to make any change to my cervix.

Where did you deliver?
At the hospital both times.

Drugs?
Spinal both times....I was numb from the waist down for a good hour after surgery.

Csection?
Yes, both times.....see above in regards to VBAC.

Who delivered?
My OB.....She's GREAT!

Four Things

I stole this from Marly (even though I wasn't tagged)....

Four place I go over and over:
Rite Aid
work
mom & dad's
WalMart

Four people who e-mail me (regularly):
Angela
Aunt Carol
spammers
Kathy

Four places I would rather be right now:
still in bed
on a cruise
Australia
somewhere other than home (assuming my family is with me too)

Four TV shows/programs that I watch over and over:
CSI (original)
House
Survivor
daily news

Four things I have for breakfast:
oatmeal
kids cereals (Fruity Pebbles, Froot Loops, Lucky Charms)
eggs
bacon & scrapple

Four animals I like best:
Monkeys
Dogs
Fish
Baby ducks

Four beaches I’ve been to:
Clearwater Beach, FL
Myrtle Beach, SC
Ocean City, MD
Virginia Beach, VA

Tag 4 people:
Jackie
KathyM
Emily
Erin

FREE kids coloring pages

It never occured to me to look online for coloring pages/books rather than buying them at the store (even if I already get them at the Dollar Tree). Just do an internet search for "coloring page," adding whatever theme it is you are interested in.

Here are some links for some cute things. You'll have to pardon the fact that most of them are health related.
Scrub Club
Color Me Healthy
Farmer's Market

Wordless Wednesday

***Yard Sale Announcement***

I will be holding my annual Labor Day weekend Yard Sale this coming weekend.

Saturday, Sunday & Monday
Aug 30-Sept 1
7-11am, no early birds please

Deal Island, MD
1st house on left just over Deal Island harbor bridge

A little something for everyone:
baby stuff (clothes-boys & girls, swing, toys)
adult woman clothes & shoes
books
household items (lamp, etc)
NEW health & beauty items (diabetes monitors, shampoo, soap, etc)
NEW Home Interiors items (former consultant looking to get rid of her "inventory)

Exciting Savings!

Here are some savings thoughs for this week that I'm pretty excited about, so I thought I'd share with you.

Walgreens
The store brand diapers are being clearanced out, because the packaging has changed (old is red, new is light green). I found some BIG packs for $2.50 each, and the "regular" packs were $2. They had a $5 off $20 coupon that was valid Fri & Sat, which I used when buying these diapers. Oddly enough, there were only sizes 3 & 6 left on the shelf, which are the sizes my kiddos are in, so I cleared the shelf. I got 7 packs of diapers, a bag of cheetos, a Cars book for Lucas, and 2 Baby Einstein teething toys (which were also on clearance for $1 each) for Caroline all for $18.xx
After I left there, I had an "AHA" moment, remembering there is also a $5/2 Walgreens coupon in the Easy Saver book that I could have used, which would have made the diapers FREE (but then I wouldn't have been able to use the $5/$20 coupon unless I bought some other stuff). They also had Pampers Easy Ups (girls) on clearance for $3, which there are coupons out there to use.

SuperFresh
Is having triple coupons and Bonus Bucks this week! Not sure what I'll be getting yet, but I'll definately be making a trip (or 2) in there! Be sure to pick up a copy (or 2) of the current Easy Solutions booklet as there are some store coupons in there to be combined with manufacturer coupons for sale items (BirdsEye Voila!) that are also Bonus Bucks items.

Rite Aid
Has a few things that (I consider) are a good deal, including some FAR (free after rebate) this week, including:
~Duck Brand EZ start packing tape ($1.50, FAR)
~Huggies $9.99 (counts towards Kimberly Clark rebate offer, this is now almost $3 cheaper than RA regular price of $12.49 since the diaper increase at the beginning of this quarter)
~Pert shampoo 99c (after $2 rebate, there are $2 coupons out there to use, as well as a mail in rebate, both of which would make this a money maker)
~Bandaids B1G1 50% off (counts towards Johnson & Johnson rebate offer, $1
coupons out there to use)
~ItchX ($3.99, FAR)
~Adult Aconomel treatment 99c (after $5 rebate)
~Albolene cleanser 99c (after $7 rebate)
~Certain Dri feet 99c (after $4 rebate)
~CompoundW 99c (after $6 rebate)
~Pledge dusters 2/$2 (after $2/2 rebate, $3/1 coupons out there to use on )
~Oust Surface & Air (1.99 after $1 rebate, there is a $2/2 printable here)
~Lysol sanitizing wipes B1G1 ($1/2 printable here, a good deal if you're interested in the $5 Lysol pediatrician deal)
~Fantastik & Shout 2/$2 (after $2/2 rebate, $1 coupons out there to use)

***Rite Aid policy is to NOT accept internet printed coupons, however, YMMV.

ebay rant

I used to sell (& buy!) a lot on ebay. But, since they changed the rules, and increased their fees (ie commission), I have backed away from it, finding other outlets to sell my items. Recently though, I have run into a situation that I want to vent about.

Before my daughter was born, I purchased a beautiful pink toile & polka dot design car seat cover from littlesheepboutique. I was pleased when I received the item. However, upon washing it this past weekend, it came apart at the seam where the 2 patterns met. I took a picture of it, and emailed the seller, asking her how we could remedy this problem. At first she seemed like she was willing to work with me, asking if there was another pattern in her store that I liked. I picked one out, and she then emailed me back with the (reduced) price that she would charge me. When I replied that I didn’t have the funds to purchase at this time, she got snippy, and advised me that she would only be able to offer me this price for a few more days. I (kindly) asked how I would be sure that the new one I bought would not do the same thing upon washing it. She then told me that her “new” patterns were double stitched, whereas her “old” design was only single stitched. In other words, since I had an older, single stitched pattern I was simply $h!t out of luck. That’s customer service for ya!

Even though she has a pretty good feedback score, I am offering some words of wisdom to beware of this seller if you are looking to purchase a similar item.

I'm a Winner!

I failed to post about this sooner, but not because I wasn't excited about it!

During the Bloggy Giveaways, I entered A LOT of giveaways, not really expecting to win, just because, well, I don't ever win things. But, I did win! In fact, I won a brand new Lord of The Rings DVD from danandmarsh.

I also got a comment from Jennifer to let me know that I'd been selected as the winer to receive business cards of my choice from Giggle Print. The cards themselves are free, so she was covering the shipping (which is a steal at only $5.25). This came at just the right time since I needed to get some more for my doula business.

Thanks for the opportunity to enter & win on your blogs!

Yucky

Lucas must think I'm Yucky...he put an entire sheet of Mr Yuk stickers on my arm, and not just once. He took them off & put them back on later. Maybe he's trying to tell me something?

Backseat driver

My darling little boy, Lucas, is already too much of a backseat driver for my own liking. Yesterday, he was ever so politely asking for mommy to hand him a book (which happened to be in the floor in front of his car seat)....happy to oblige, I handed him the book, but as I was doing so, I ever so slightly crossed the yellow line (no worries, we were on a pretty quiet road & there was no traffic in sight). He did nothing but look at me and say, "Mommy, you not driving good"

Wordless Wednesday

Random Household Tips & Tricks

I got the following tips in an email from my mommy friend, Tarin. Thanks for sharing!

*Peel a banana from the bottom and you won't have to pick the little 'stringy things' off of it.
*Take your bananas apart when you get home from the store. If you leave them connected at the stem, they ripen faster.

*Store your opened chunks of cheese in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh much longer and not mold!

*Peppers with 3 bumps on the bottom are sweeter and better for eating.
*Peppers with 4 bumps on the bottom are firmer and better for cooking.

*Add a teaspoon of water when frying ground beef. It will help pull the grease away from the meat while cooking.

*To really make scrambled eggs or omelets rich, add a couple of spoonfuls of sour cream, cream cheese, or heavy cream in and then beat them up.

*For a cool brownie treat, make brownies as directed. Melt Andes mints in double broiler and pour over warm brownies. Let set for a wonderful minty frosting.

*Add garlic immediately to a recipe if you want a light taste of garlic and at the end of the recipe if your want a stronger taste of garlic.

*Leftover snickers bars from Halloween make a delicious dessert. Simply chop them up with the food chopper. Peel, core and slice a few apples. Place them in a baking dish and sprinkle the chopped candy bars over the apples. Bake at 350 for 15 minutes!!! Serve alone or with vanilla ice cream. Yummm.

*Heat up leftover pizza in a nonstick skillet on top of the stove, set heat to med-low and heat till warm. This keeps the crust crispy.

*For easy deviled eggs, put cooked egg yolks in a zip lock bag. Seal, mash till they are all broken up. Add remainder of ingredients, reseal, keep mashing it up mixing thoroughly, cut the tip of the baggy, squeeze mixture into egg. Just throw bag away when done for a super easy clean up.

*When you buy a container of cake frosting from the store, whip it with your mixer for a few minutes. You can double it in size. You get to frost more cake/cupcakes with the same amount. You also eat less sugar and calories per serving.

*To warm biscuits, pancakes, or muffins that were refrigerated, place them in a microwave with a cup of water. The increased moisture will keep the food moist and help it reheat faster.

*Start putting in your plants, work the nutrients in your soil. Wet newspapers, put layers around the plants overlapping as you go cover with mulch and forget about weeds. Weeds will get through some gardening plastic they will not get through wet newspapers.

*Use a wet cotton ball or Q-tip to pick up the small shards of glass you can't see easily.

*Place a dryer sheet in your pocket to keep the mosquitoes away.

*To keep squirrels from eating your plants, sprinkle your plants with cayenne pepper. The cayenne pepper doesn't hurt the plant and the squirrels won't come near it.

*To get something out of a heat register or under the fridge add an empty paper towel roll or empty gift wrap roll to your vacuum. It can be bent or flattened to get in narrow openings.

*Pin a small safety pin to the seam of your slip and you will not have a clingy skirt or dress. Same thing works with slacks that cling when wearing panty hose. Place pin in seam of slacks and no more static!

*Before you pour sticky substances into a measuring cup, fill with hot water. Dump out the hot water, but don't dry cup. Next, add your ingredient, such as peanut butter, and watch how easily it comes right out.

*Hate foggy windshields? Buy a chalkboard eraser and keep it in the glove box of your car . When the window s fog, rub with the eraser! Works better than a cloth!

*If you seal an envelope and then realize you forgot to include something inside, just place your sealed envelope in the freezer for an hour or two. Viola! It unseals easily.

*Use your hair conditioner to shave your legs. It's cheaper than shaving cream and leaves your legs really smooth. It's also a great way to use up the conditioner you bought but didn't like when you tried it in your hair.

*To get rid of pesky fruit flies, take a small glass, fill it 1/2' with Apple Cider Vinegar and 2 drops of dish washing liquid; mix well. You will find those flies drawn to the cup and gone forever!

*Put small piles of cornmeal where you see ants. They eat it, take it 'home,' can't digest it, and it kills them. It may take a week or so, especially if it rains, but it works and you don't have the worry about pets or small children being harmed!

Driver's Ed 101--Melissa style

Apparently I have a case of raod rage when it comes to how others drive. There are certain things that just irritate the crap outta me when I'm driving. So, here's Driver's Ed 101 for you--Melissa style:

~Here in the great state of Maryland, it is a law that you must use your headlights when operating your windshield wipers. Reason behind this is, if you need to use them, then chances are, visibility isn't all that great, and others probably can't see you all that well either. Certain highways even require the use of headlights at all times. It's to protect you AND those driving on the road with you. Another time to use them is when it's foggy....dusk and dawn...heck, just make it a habit to turn them on when you start the car. But, don't forget to turn them off when you get out. I can bet if you do forget, you won't do it but once, especially if you come back to a dead battery.

~If I'm riding in the fast lane, which I have a habit of doing (since I'm usually going [slightly] faster than the speed limit), please don't come speeding up behind me, thinking that you are going to intimidate me to moving over in the "slow" lane. I have just as much right to be there as you do. Also, don't try to speed by me in the right hand lane if you want to get around me. If I have the opportunity, I will speed my vehicle up, so you are unable to pass, with the help of other cars in the right hand lane. Blinking your headlights at me won't get you anywhere either. If by some chance you do pass me, make note, because most likely, we'll be sitting at the next stoplight/sign together anyways, so you won't have gotten too far ahead in the grand scheme of things.

~Use your blinker! You know, that little "arm" on the left side of the steering wheel...push up when turning right (or moving to the right lane), down when turning left (or moving to the left lane). Again, this is not for you, but so others know what you are doing while driving....Myself, I'm not a mind reader, so I can't tell what your intentions are if you move into the same lane as I. If no blinker, I assume you are not paying attention/drunk/sleeping & drifted over there by mistake, and are therefore a risk to me & my family. On occassion, I have been known to call the police with vehicle descriptions.

~If I do manage to piss you off with my driving skills, don't think you're going to hurt my feelings by cursing at me or making certain hand gestures at me. When I notice people doing this, usually I just smile & wave at them. You know, kill 'em with kindness kinda mind set.

Birthday wishlist

My birthday is coming up next month. My dear husband usually asks me about a week before what I want, and I never can think of anything to tell him....my parents ask as well, but a little sooner than that.

Well, this year I'm on top of things & am posting my list of "wants" here for them to refer to when they need to.
--I want someone to come hook my dishwasher up that we bought brand new almost 2 years ago when we moved into our house....but it's just been sitting there because it's not hooked up.
--I want ceiling fans installed in the kids' bedrooms & 1 in the family room. I think we have them all purchased, again, it's just we need someone to come do the installation.
--I would like to have a new glass front door so I can open my door on a cool fall/spring day and let the breeze blow through.
--A new door installed between the dining & utility rooms, so we can take down the afghan that's been hanging there for over a year now.
--A nice set of silverware to go w/ the new dishes I'd like.
--If all else fails, Bath & Body Works sweet pea body cream is always a welcome item


While I'm at it....Honey, I want this (or something like it) for our 5 year wedding anniversary coming up in February. :-)

Be Prepared--part II

I realized after posting, that I left out our furry friends when preparing for a disaster.

Since many times, warnings are issued well in advance of the potential disaster's occurance, you may want to bring your pet inside so you don't have to search for them should you need to leave your area quickly. Make sure your pet has on a collar and up to date identification.

While I mentioned that most shelters do not accept pets, in the event that you find one who does, it might be important for you to know what to take with you.

1. Medications & medical records, especially rabies vaccination information.
2. Leash, harness, and/or carrier to keep pet confined.
3. Photos in case your pet gets lost.
4. Food, water, bowls, liter pan & can opener.
5. Pet bed and/or toy(s).

Be prepared for the fact that while the shelter may offer space to temporarily house your pet during a disaster, most likely they will not be allowed to stay with you, but in a separate part of the shelter. You may also be required to sign an agreement of sorts which explains the guidelines for having your pet in the shelter.

Be Prepared!

Since I have a job in Emergency Preparedness, I thought I might post a blog about how you can prepare your family for a disaster. It might just come in handy (though I honestly hope not) now that we're entering the most active part of Hurricane Season.

1. Make a plan
~Consider what events are most likely to occur in your area. Think about the different ways to respond to a natural disaster (hurrincae, tornado, flood, etc), terrorist event (9/11/01), or a major public health emergency (Avian Influenza outbreak).
~Know who you will contact. Ask an out of state friend or relative to be your "family contact" so other family members can call this person for updates from you in case you are unavailable.
~Know where you will meet. Pick 2 places--one right outside your house in case of a sudden emergency (like a fire), and the other outside of your neighborhood in case you can't return home. Everyone should know the address & phone # of this location.
~Know where you will stay. Discuss the possibility of evacuation the area or sheltering in place (staying where you are aka "riding it out"). Develop a plan for kids in daycare and/or school, older adults, those with special needs and/or assistance. Don't forget to plan for the care of your pets as well. Most shelters do not generally accept animals.

2. Make a kit In the event that you have to shelter in place, the following items are considered essential in the event of an emergency.
~Water--You will need 1 gallon of water per person for a minimum of 3 days
~Non-perishable food--consider pop-top lidded cans of pasta, tuna, soup, etc. You should have a 3-5 day supply of food for each person.
~Clothes--At least 1 change of clothes (including footwear) for each person, which is seasonally appropriate.
~Medications--3 days worth of any medicines you are currently taking
~Flashlight & extra batteries for use when there is no electricity
~Manual can opener (in case you forgot to purchase pop-top lidded cans)
~Radio--Battery powered for listening to news & weather reports in case electricity is out.
~Hygiene items--Basics like soap, toilet paper & a toothbrush
~First aid basics like antiseptic, gloves, bandages & non-prescription medicines (Tylenol, Benadryl, etc)


Sources: Red Cross, FEMA, CDC, Homeland Security, Disaster Help

Coupon brags of the week

This week (8/1-8/7), SuperFresh (SF) is having triple coupons! I went on Saturday to pick up a few things. While it wasn't my best trip, savings wise, I was still pleased with what I picked up....and I do plan to go back again before it's over.

Pampers Baby Dry diapers were on sale for $8.99--I had $2 coupons to use
Pampers Easy Ups were also on sale for the same price--I had $3 coupons to use However, over on their clearance shelf, I found some Pampers Feel & Learns marked down to $6.99, which I could also use my $3 coupons on, so I put the Easy Ups back on the shelf.
Lysol foam hand sanitizer (small bottle) is on sale for $1.99. I have a 75c coupon to triple ($2.25), so it ends up being free. Plus, they are sponsoring a promo where if you buy 2 Lysol products & have a pediatrician visit, you are eligible for a $5 rebate. Here's the info in case anyone is interested.
Land o' Lakes butter was $1.99 and I had a 40c coupon to triple ($1.20), plus a 40c store coupon, so I only paid like 39c for a tub of butter. We might not need it right now, but we'll use it sooner or later before it gets yucky.



My FAVORITE store to shop at is RiteAid (RA). They make their rebate redemption so seemlessly easy with online submission, which in turn makes it even easier to "double dip" on rebates you need the original receipt to mail in. They also allow coupon "stacking" (using a store coupon & a manufacturer coupon at the same time for deeper savings), which is another incentive to shop there (they often distribute store coupons via their website, in store, etc).
This week I plan on buying a few things, which will be free after rebate (FAR):
ReNu contact solution twin pack
Revlon nail polish
Gillette Fusion mens razor
Gillette body wash
Charles Worthington hair care products
Old Spice mens disposable razor

Heads up because there is a coupon book coming out this weekend with store coupons in it, valued at over $260. I was able to get my hands on one last night, but the coupons aren't valid until 8/10-8/23.



Last week, I ventured into Walgreens (WAGs), which is something that I don't normally do, mainly because I'm not as familiar with their rebate system as I am RiteAid (and I find it a bit more time consuming & confusing). WAGs also allows "stacking" of coupons, and with this I did score some deals.

Apparently the WAGs brand diapers just went through a packaging design change, so they clearanced out all the old styles at $5.99 Well, that was last week, but the signs were still up, so I scored 2 packs at that price. Plus, there was a coupon in their booklet for $5/2 packs, so I paid a total of $6.98 for 2 packs for diapers for Caroline to grow into.
Kotex had a $1.50 store coupon & I had a $1 manufacturer coupon, so I paid 49c each for 2 packs of pantyliners. Not free like you can get elsewhere, but I was also trying to rack my bill up to a little over $20 in order to use my $5 off $20 coupon that was valid last Thurs.
If you visit this blog, you can get some great WAGs deals as well. Thanks for sharing, Mercedes!

We have a WINNER!

Random Integer Generator

Here are your random numbers:

59

Timestamp: 2008-08-01 19:47:56 UTC

So, this means that kathleen is the winner! If I have not received her information by Sunday night, then I will choose another winner. Thanks to everyone who visited. Come back soon!

Random Thoughts

Sitting here at work, I think of random things. Here are some of my ponderings for the day:

1--Isn't it strange how certain songs bring back old memories and remind you of certain people??? I hear this one song at least once a week, and it makes me think back to about 6 years ago, and I would almost swear it's a "sign" to get in touch with the person the song remind me of, just to see how things are going.

2--Who in the world names their kid after a cereal, and then they go on to be a professional athelete? Apparently someone does: Coco Crisp

3--Do you carry on a conversation with others who are in the restroom at the same time as you? I'm sorry, but I just find it awkward to carry on a conversation while performing bodily functions, and without being able to see the person I'm talking to (though I suppose I do this when talking on the phone/internet, but still).

Giveaway time!

It's time for the Bloggy Giveaway Carnival, and I wanted to offer a giveaway on my personal blog in addition to the one already on my business blog.

Rules:
1--Open to anyone, anywhere.....you do NOT have to have a blog of your own. Just be sure to provide a valid email address as this is how I will contact the winner.
2--Comments will close at 3pm EST on Friday, Aug 1. Winner will be announced on Friday, Aug 1, by 10pm EST. I will use random.org to choose a random # for me. Winner will have until 7pm EST Sunday, Aug 3 to get me their address for mailing. If no response, I will choose another winner.
3--Post a comment here telling me your favorite store to save money at, and how you do so.

What you'll win:
An assortment of 50+ coupons (not expired). I will try to include coupons for items that you use regularly, which you will be responsible for telling me once I contact you as the winner. If you don't include anything, than I will just send a potluck of anything.

Doesn't take much

Apparently it doesn't take much at all to impress my 2.5 year old son. One night last week for dinner, I cooked breakfast (scraple, bacon, eggs & hubby did the french toast). When Lucas was eating his scraple, he looked at me and said "Mommy, you did good. It's yummy. Good job!" I couldn't help but chuckle. However, for those who don't know me, cooking isn't my forte by ANY means (I've been known to burn tea bags--more than once--by boiling the water completely out of them because I put them on & get doing something else & forget about what I was doing to begin with), which is what made it so funny.

Lazy Sunday

Our Sunday ritual is pretty much the same each week....get up, play w/ the kids, go to dinner at hubby's grandmother's house, come home & nap....Well, today, everyone is napping but me, and I'm enjoying the silence in the house....it's dark here, there's thunder rumbling outside, there's a storm coming. I'm not a big fan of thunder storms (thanks, Mom), but today for some reason, I'm finding it relaxing, almost theraputic. After I get done posting this, I'm going to close the computer & lay here on the bed & listen to it pass by, hoping it doesn't wake Lucas...wait, I think I hear him stirring....so much for relaxing I guess.

Welcome!

Welcome to my blog!

After much contemplation, I decided to separate my business & personal blogs. This is my personal blog. If you are trying to find my doula business blog, go here, or my business website, here.

On here you will find random posts, about life in general, my kids, work, etc. Not sure how often I'll post, but I promise I'll make a conscious effort to try to do it at least once a week.