How LOW can we GO???

How LOW can we GO???

Well, it's been about 9 months since I've started this new way of shopping:  strategic shopping, couponing, stockpiling, etc.  At the start, I instantly saved about 50% OFF our usual grocery bill....and I was thrilled!  As time has gone on, our grocery bill has continued to fall :-)...

Currently, for our family of five, I spend about $100/week on groceries.  By "groceries", I mean basically anything you could purchase at a grocery store:  food, toilet paper, kleenex, shampoo, razors, laundry & cleaning supplies, etc.  I've still been building up our stockpile at this $ amount.  Now that we're becoming a bit more more "stocked up",  & as I'm becoming more skilled at this new way of shopping, I can be a little more picky about which deals I decide to take.  I hope to see this $ amount continue to fall...

How LOW can we GO??? I think my next major goal will be to get our grocery budget down to $50/week ($200/month).  There are definitely others who have a much lower grocery budget, but $200/month is my new personal goal.  This probably won't happen right away...but it sure would be great to get there!

I'd love to hear what kind of savings you've been seeing so far!  

What are your grocery budget goals?

Reminder: Tuesday is National FREE Pancake Day at IHOP!

Visit IHOP on National Pancake Day, Tuesday, March 1st, 2011 (7am-10pm), and receive one complimentary short stack per guest!

 The offer is valid at participating restaurants for dine-in only while supplies last and is not valid with any other offer, special coupon or discount.  In return for the free pancakes, IHOP asks that you consider leaving a donation for Children's Miracle Network Hospitals and other designated local charities. 

IHOP Locations in Madison:

2825 University Avenue, Suite 1

 608-236-4200

4614 E. Washington Avenue

608-244-5807

Hy-Vee Deals Week of 2/27/11 - 3/5/11!

Hy-Vee is having a "3-Day Sale" Thurs 3/3 through Saturday 3/5, this week.  Their orange juice is $0.99 again (my dad will be thrilled as this is one of his favorite deals!)...great price! Also, if you've been thinking about buying a chest freezer for stockpiling, you may want to consider Hy-Vee's 5.3 cubic ft. Haier Chest Freezer offer during the "3-Day Sale"!  With purchase of the $199 freezer, you would receive up to $200 in products FREE (using coupons you'll receive with the freezer).  I'd ask what they mean by "up to $200", though.   

Here are the deals that caught my eye this week (2/27 - 3/5, 2011):

Produce

Sunkist Choice Navel Oranges, 4 lb. bag, $1.98 3-Day Sale!
= $1.98 ~ update: nearby ALDI has the same amount of oranges for half the price this week!

Red Ripe Strawberries, 16 oz. pkg., $1.68
= $1.68

Chilean Green Seedless Grapes, $1.28/lb.
= $1.28/lb.

General Grocery

Chicken of the Sea Chunk Light Tuna, in water or oil, 5 oz., $0.48 (limit 2) 3-Day Sale!
= $0.48 each

Meat

Hy-Vee 100% Natural Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, $1.88/lb.
= $1.88/lb.

Hormel Marinated Pork Loin Fillet, 1.7 lb., BOGOFREE ($9.99 for first)
+ use two $1/1 Hormel Always Tender Flavored Meat, exp. 4-18-11 (SS 02/13/11), if allowed
= $3.99 each (or $2.35/lb.) ~a pretty good price for this marinated variety if Hy-Vee allows use of two coupons with a BOGO deal...does anyone know if they do at the Madison Hy-Vee?

Refrigerated

Hy-Vee Orange Juice, from concentrate, regular or with calcium, half gallon, $0.99 3-Day Sale!
= $0.99

Athenos Greek Yogurt, selected varieties, 5.3 oz., $1.00 each
+ use $0.75/2 Athenos Greek Yogurt, exp. 3-31-11 (ALL YOU Jan '11)
= $0.62 each, when you buy two

8th Continent Soymilk, selected varieties, 64 fl. oz., $2.50 each
+ use $1/1 8th Continent Soy Milk printable
= $1.50 each ~not bad, if you need some, but, you could double this coupon at Copps and pay $0.50 each, when Copps has the same sale price.

Frozen

Hy-Vee Ice Cream, select varieties, 56 oz. square, $1.88
= $1.88

Dansko Shoes up to 66% OFF! TODAY ONLY!

Whoa, here's an incredible deal at 6pm.com!  "Dansko" is definitely one of my all time favorite brands of shoes!  They are super comfortable and treated me very well in my days as a hospital nurse.  I still wear mostly Dansko now, too, because they have so many different styles!  Visit this link at 6pm.com to see the list of Dansko shoes sorted by % off!  There are currently a wide variety of styles to choose from!  You can also sign up to for 6pm.com's "Daily Deals" to get a promotional code via e-mail that will add an additional 10% OFF (see button toward the top of their web page)!  

This sale goes through today, 2/27/11, only and selection & prices are subject to change...so be sure to check it out soon!

Thanks, Stretching a Buck!

Sentry Deals Week of 2/24/11 - 3/2/11!

Some Sentry Stores in our area are having double coupon days, so if your store is doubling (check in with customer service to ask & get any details), there are several great deals for you this week.  Here are a few of my favorites:

TransOcean Crab or Lobster Classic $2
+ use $1/1 Crab Classic printable coupons
= FREE after doubled coupon!

Bar S Jumbo Franks $1.25

+ use $1/2 Bar S printable coupons

= $0.25 each after doubled coupon

Gain Dish Detergent 24-30 ounce $1.99

+ use $1/1 from P&G Everyday Solutions book

= FREE after doubled coupon

Downy Fabric Softener $3.99

+ use $1/1 from P&G Everyday Solutions book

or + use $1/1 from 2/27 P&G

= $1.99 after doubled coupon

DanActive or Activia $1.99

+ use $1/1 from 1/9 SS

= FREE after doubled coupon

 

Thanks, Building Shangri-la!  

Visit Building Shangri-la for the rest of the list!

Walgreens Deals Week of 2/27/11 - 3/5/11!

Here are some of the better deals I'm seeing at Walgreens this next week (2/27 - 3/5, 2011).  There are quite a few Register Reward deals you might want to cash in on! 

Personal Care

Colgate Total Advanced or Total Gum Defense - $2.99
~buy one, get $2.99 RR
+ use $0.50/1 Colgate Toothpaste 2/13/2011 SS Insert (exp 3/5/2011)
or + use $0.35/1 Colgate Toothpaste 2/13/2011 SS Insert (exp 3/5/2011)
or + use $1/1 Colgate Total Advanced Toothpaste All You Jan 2011 12/22/2010 (exp 2/28/2011)
= $0.35-$1.00 MONEYMAKER!

Schick Hydro Razor System - $8.99
~buy one, get $6.00 RR
+ use $2/1 Schick Hydro Razor 1/30/2011 SS Insert (exp 3/13/2011)
= $.99

Copps Trip 2/26/11...100% OFF! + $0.26 MONEYMAKER!

Copps Trip 1/26/11...$0.26 MONEYMAKER!

Fun little Copps trip this morning!  I actually made money buying these items!  OK, I've been doing this for about 9 months now, but I'm still amazed each and every time, with how much $ can be saved with coupons!  It's crazy! 

   

As my husband has said in a quirky little haiku he made up recently: 

Saving is virtue.

Paying retail? Last resort.

Coupons are money.

 "Coupons are money!"...so true!   

Why on earth did we ignore them for so long???  

Here's what I chose to buy today:

1-gallon Roundy's milk, $2.29 
+ used $3.25 milk coupon from my last trip 
= $0.96 MONEYMAKER!

1-Coffeemate Hazelnut Creamer, 32 oz., $3.35
+ used FREE Coffeemate coupon (from Facebook deal a while back), no longer available
= FREE!

1-Silk Soy Milk with DHA, $2.50 
+ used $1/1 printable coupon, doubled
= $0.50

Operation $40K Give-Away!

Dannelle, the writer of another money saving blog in the Madison area, Operation $40K, is celebrating her 500th post with a give-away valued at $200!   

Here's what will be given away:

1) $100 Tupperware Package
2) A Tupperware Seasoning Collection
3) A Tupperware Coupon Box, complete with divider tabs.
4) A $25 Roundy's Gift card!
5) A Tupperware Reusable Green Shopping bag

Visit Operation $40K for the details & entry info!

BOGO Deal at Chipotle Mexican Grill!

Get a great deal at Chipotle Mexican Grill! Simply "Like" "America's Next Great Restaurant" on Facebook, watch a short video promoting their new "America's Next Great Restaurant" TV show, which premiers Sunday March 6th at 7pm central on NBC, and you'll be able to print a coupon to "buy one get one free" burrito, bowl, taco or salad at Chipotle Mexican Grill!  Promotion runs from 2/23/11 - 3/6/11. Offer expires seven (7) days after video is viewed.

Here are three Chipotle Mexican Grill locations in the Madison area 

(all are open Mon. - Sun. 11am-10pm): 
4628 E. Washington Ave. 
658 State St. 
8422 Old Sauk Rd. 

  Thanks, Steve! 

 

Walgreens March 2011 Coupon Book List!

The new March Walgreens Instant Value Coupon (IVC) Booklet (valid 2/27/11 - 3/26/11) should be available in most stores soon! Look for these near the door by the weekly ads...This booklet has over $440 worth of Walgreens store coupons and rebates! Remember, these coupons can be combined with manufacturer’s coupons for additional savings.  

Here's the list!

GROCERY

$1/2 Hellmann's Mayonnaise, 22 or 30 oz (5630)
$1/1 Aquafina 24 pack, 16.9 oz ea (5634)
$1/1 Lil’ Drums 10 pk, Skinny Cow Ice Cream Sandwich or Truffle Bar, 6 pk or Edy’s or Dreyer’s Fruit Bars, 6 pk (5628)

$1/2 Lipton Green Tea Bags 40 pk, Decaf 48 pk or Original 100 pk (5631)
$1/2 Skippy Peanut Butter, 16.3 oz (5629)

$1/2 Welch’s 100% Grape Juice 64 oz (5632)

Madison Area Mall Coupons (2/25/11)!

Planning a trip out to the mall or other retail stores this weekend?  Here's this week's list of printable coupons that apply to Madison area stores!  Let us know (in comments below this post) what kinds of fantastic deals you find!  Happy Shopping! 

• Aeropostale - $10 off $50 Exp 2/27 
• Banana Republic Factory Outlet - 15% off $100+ purchase Exp 2/29/12
• Barnes & Noble - 30% off select titles & Vera Bradley products Exp 3/1
• Bath & Body Works - Free Signature Travel Item with any purchase Exp. 3/9
• Bed Bath & Beyond - Sign up for email newsletter and get 20% off coupon
• Big Lots - 20% off purchase Valid 3/6 only
• Carter's - $10 off $50 Exp 3/9
• Children's Place - 15% off purchase Exp 3/10
• Coach Outlet - 30% off purchase Exp 2/27 
• Coldwater Creek - $30 off $100 Exp 3/13
• Express - Sign up for their Email Newsletter and get 15% off your next purchase
• Family Christian - 25% off purchase Exp 2/27 
• Fashion Bug - Sign up for their Email Newsletter and get 15% off your next purchase
• Gap Outlet - 15% off $75+ purchase Exp 2/29/12
• Gap Outlet - 15% off first purchase when you sign up for their email newsletter 
• Hobby Lobby - 25% off regular priced item Exp 2/26
• JC Penney - $10 off $25 Valid 2/25 - 2/26
• JC Penney - $10 off $50 Exp 3/10
• Justice - 40% off purchase Exp 2/28
• Kirkland's - $5 off $25 Exp 3/14 
• Kohl's - $5 off any purchase
• Michael's - 40% off regular priced item Exp 2/26
• New York & Co - $40 off $100 Exp 2/27 
• New York & Co -  Get Offers for signing up for their Email Newsletter
• Nine West Outlet- 15% off purchase Exp 2/27
• Office Depot - $10 off $50 Exp 2/28
• Old Navy - $5 off $25 Exp 3/3
• Party City - 20% off $40 Exp 2/28 
• Payless - 20% off purchase Exp 3/8 
• Payless Shoe Source - 15% off next purchase for signing up for their Email Newsletter
• Sears - $5 off $25 Facebook Exclusive Valid 2/25-2/26
• Tanger - Get Coupons for your Tanger Outlet Mall
• Target - Various Coupons
• Walgreens - Various Coupons in the February Coupon Book (found in-store).
• World Market - 10% off purchase Exp 3/1
• Yankee Candle - $10 off $25 Exp 3/6
• Yankee Candle - $15 off $45 Exp 3/20

Thanks, Your Retail Helper!

Sunday 2/27/11 Coupon Insert SNEAK PEEK!

It looks like we're going to be getting two coupon inserts this next Sunday (2/27/11)!

One SmartSource

One Procter & Gamble

Click here to see the list at Sunday Coupon Preview!

Please note:  Regional coupon inserts & value differences are to be expected...but this sneak peek should give us an idea of what types of coupons are coming our way! :-)

Mission Tortilla Chips...Most "Like"ly FREE!

NEW UPDATE:  

Mission made it to 30,000 likes in one day! I hope you were able to "Like" them in time!  If you did, be sure to check back at missioncoupons.com on March 4th, to claim your coupon!

Mission is having a "Chips Across America" event...which may mean we can get FREE chips! 

Copps Deals Week of 2/24/11 - 3/2/11!

You can double up to five manufacturer coupons (with a value of $1.00 or less) on Saturdays and Wednesdays (through Sat. July 9th, 2011).  Your total order needs to be at least $25 before tax and after store coupons, and you need to use your Roundy's rewards card in order for your coupons to double.  Individual store coupon policies may vary, so be sure to check in with customer service.

Here are the better deals I'm seeing for this next week (2/24 - 3/2, 2011):

Produce

Broccoli from California, $0.89/lb.
= $0.89/lb.

Red Seedless Grapes from Chile, $1.29/lb.
= $1.29/lb.

Copps Trip 2/23/11 $12.62...86% OFF + MORE!!!

Copps Trip 2/23/11...Overall $0.38 MONEYMAKER!

OK.  Now, I'm going to have to donate some cereal.  This may be my best Copps trip, so far.  After accounting for all of the coupons I received for FREE stuff, I actually left the store earning $0.38, overall!  Craziness!  Oh, and ummmm, my sincere apologies to the guy who came up behind me in line to buy just two donuts! ;-). 

I did this trip in three transactions.   To see more details about these deals (& others) available yet today, see my prior post: "Copps Deals Week of 2/17/11 -2/23/11":

Transaction #1:

10 Ronzoni pasta: 6-smart taste + 4 healthy harvest, $1.00 each

+ used three $1/2 Ronzoni Smart Taste, exp. 3-31-11 (SS 01/23/11)
+ used two $1/2 Ronzoni Healthy Harvest, exp. 3-31-11 (SS 01/23/11)
= FREE after doubled coupons!


1-Roundy's fresh boneless skinless Chicken Breasts, family pack, $1.99/lb (limit 2 pkg)
= $1.99/lb. (bought 3.2 lbs. for $6.37)

~bought $10 Copps gift card to bring my subtotal up above $25 so coupons would double

Total: $16.37 - $10 gift card
= $6.37

Transaction #2:

Fantastic Frozen Food Deal at Target this Week!

Target has a fantastic deal on Frozen Food this week! FREE $5 Target GiftCard when you buy ANY seven frozen food items in store!  Since many frozen food items are priced near or under $1.00, this makes for an incredible deal!  Prices may vary by store, but see Creative Couponing for a great list of super savings!   
Shelves will be clearing fast...get there soon!

This deal is regional, so be sure your ad (page three), has the picture above (some areas are just getting a free frozen food bag with purchase, instead).

Hy-Vee Deals Week of 2/20/11-2/26/11!

Hy-Vee is having a special "1-Day Sale" again this week, on Thursday 2/24/11.  You'll find many of the best deals fall on that day.  For instance, Orange Juice, 64 fl. oz. is only $0.99!  See the list of the better deals I'm seeing at Hy-Vee this week, below:

Produce

Exotic Kiwi, $0.25 each
= $0.25 each

Fresh Mangoes, $0.99 each
= $0.99 each

Fresh Green Onions, bunch, $0.50 each
= $0.50 each

Mission Ripe Avocados, $1.00 each
= $1.00 each

Grimmway Farms Baby Carrots, 16 oz., $1.00 each
= $1.00 each

FREE Finish Dishwasher Tabs at Target!

FREE Finish Quantum Dishwasher Tabs at Target!

 Here's how:

Finish Quantum Dishwasher Detergent, 10 ct., $2.50 (price cut through 3/12/11)

+ Target store coupon:  1.50 off 10-ct. or larger Finish by Quantum dishwasher detergent

+ Manuf. printable coupon:   $1/1 any Finish Quantum Automatic Dishwasher Detergent 

= FREE! (just pay tax) ~these are likely to sell out quickly!

Thanks, Totally Target! 

Walgreens Deals Week of 2/20/11 - 2/26/11!

Before I began couponing & strategic shopping, items like razors, soaps, cleaners, feminine products, etc., used to be the most expensive on my grocery bill.  Now, they tend to be the least expensive!  See below for great match-ups that you can use to find the same great savings!

Here are my favorite deals at Walgreens the week of 2/20 - 2/26, 2011:

Mentos Gum, 15 piece or Trident Xtra Care or Layers, 14 piece, $0.99
+ use $1/3 Mentos Gum 15pc. or larger bottles from SS insert 2/6/11
or + use $0.50/1 Mentos Item, any from SS insert 2/6/11
or + use $1/3 Trident, any single packs from SS insert 1/2/11
= $O.49-$0.69 each

Tilex, 16 or 32 oz., Clorox spray 30 or 32 oz., Clorox Toilet Bowl 3.5 or 24 oz., Clorox Wipes 35 pack, Liquid Plumr, 32 oz, Formula 409 32 oz, or Green Works 22 or 32 oz., $3.00 each
~Buy two, receive $2.00 Register Reward, limit 1
+ use two $1.00/1 – Tilex Mold and Mildew Remover & Mildew Root Penetrator and Remover – (tilex.com)
or + use $0.75/1 – Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner, Manual or Automatic – (bricks.coupons.com)
= $1.00- $1.25 each after coupons and register reward

Glade Surface Disinfectants & Air Sanitizers, 9.7-32 oz., $2.50
~Buy two and receive $1.00 Register Reward, limit 1
+ use two $1/1 on any Glade Premium Room Spray 9.7 oz 
or + use two $1/1 on any Glade Fabric & Air Odor Eliminator
= $1.00 each after coupons and register reward

RepHresh Brilliant PH Tampons, 18 pk, $5.99
~Buy one, receive $5 Register Reward, Limit 1
+ use $1/1 RepHresh Brilliant Tampons Super or Regular
= FREE after coupon and register reward

Goody Ouchless Elastics, 27 pk., $2.99
~Buy one, receive $2.00 Register Reward, Limit 1
= $0.99 after register reward

Gillette Fusion ProGlide or Venus Embrace Razor System $9.99
~Buy one, receive $4.00 Register Reward, limit 1
+ use $4/1 Gillette Fusion ProGlide Manual or Power Razor from P & G insert 1/30/11
= $1.99 after coupon and register reward

Dove or Degree Antiperspirant/Deodorant, 2.6-3 oz., $1.99
+ use in ad coupon to get sale price (limit 4)
+ use $2/1 Dove deodorant or body mist, any excluding trial and travel size from RP insert 1/30/11
= FREE!

See The Krazy Coupon Lady for more Walgreens deals available this week!

 Thanks, The Krazy Coupon Lady!

Copps Trip 2/19/2011...69% savings!

$16.88 + tax...69% OFF!

I made a trip to Copps this afternoon & was able to save 69% overall...not too bad!  Part of the reason my % savings was a little lower today was that I chose to buy some boneless, skinless, chicken breast.  It just sounded really good, though...and was a pretty decent price for the prepared stuff (@ $1.99/lb).  I was so glad to see that Ronzoni Garden Delight has a Radiatore pasta, too!  Yum!...my all time favorite pasta shape!...and I got all of this pasta for FREE! :-) 

I did this trip in two separate transactions.   If you would like to see details of these deals and others available at Copps this week, see my earlier post:  Copps Deals Week of 2/17/11 - 2/23/11!

Here's what I chose to buy today:

Transaction #1:

8-Ronzoni Pastas, $1.00 each + used 4 $1/2 coupons, doubled = FREE!
2- cans Wolf Brand Chili, $1.50 each + used 1 $0.75/2 coupon, doubled = $0.75 each!
~bought one $15 Copps gift card to be sure my total was at least $25 (so my coupons would double)
= $16.50 - $15 gift card = $1.50!

Transaction #2:

2-Ronzoni pastas, $1.00 each + used on $1/2 coupon, doubled = FREE!
2-Gain He detergent, $5.49 each + used two $1/1 coupons, doubled = $3.49 each
2- 24 oz. Propel waters, $1.19 each + used one B1G1FREE catalina coupon and one FREE catalina coupon = FREE!
1-approx. 3 lbs. chicken breast, $5.77 ($1.99/lb) = $5.77
1-Total care swabs (like Q-Tips), 300 ct., $1.00, = $1.00
1-8 oz. fresh whole mushrooms + used cut back coupon book coupon to get sale price = $0.88
2-Poise liners (for our sweet little senior dog), $2.98 & $1.98 each + used cut back coupon book coupon to get sale price of $1.98 on the first one + used two $1/1 coupons, doubled = $0.48 each!
= $15.38 + tax (used $15 gift card from first transaction to pay for this transaction)

Totals for this Trip:

TOTAL Spent:  $16.88 + tax  (including purchase of gift card used in second transaction)

Total SAVED:  $37.23 (69% OFF!)

??? Two Coupon Inserts this Sunday ???

It's looking like there will be just one coupon insert this Sunday (Redplum).  However, I did see one blog, Creative Couponing, that posted they expect a Procter and Gamble as well...we'll have to wait & see, I suppose.  To see the coupons expected for the Redplum insert, visit Sunday Coupon Preview, here.  UPDATE:  Well, in the WI State Journal I received this morning, there is only a Redplum...and a pretty skimpy one, at that.  See the list of coupons in my redplum below

List of coupons included in my WI State Journal Redplum Insert (2/20/11):

Save $1/1 on any one California Pizza kitchen product (4/30)
Save $2/1 Dial Nutriskin lotion, any (3/12)--Good one!
Save $1/1 Sprayaway glass cleaner, do not double (4/10)
Save $0.50/1 any SuperPretzel Product (3/20)
McDonald’s FREE Fruit & Maple Oatmeal wyb a medium Beverage (3/27)
McDonald’s FREE Fruit & Maple Oatmeal (3/27)--FREE, no other purchase required!
McDonald’s FREE med. Fries & FREE medium soft drink or tea wyb any Angus 1/3 Pounder (3/27)
McDonalds Buy a Filet-O-Fish Sandwich and get a FREE Filet-O-Fish Sandwich (3/27)
McDonalds Buy any Regular Menue Sandwich (excludes dollar menu items) and get a FREE Regular Menu Sandwich of equal or lesser value (3/27)
McDonalds Buy any Breakfast Sandwich (excludes dollar menu items) and get a fREE Breakfast Sandwich of equal or lesser value (3/27)

I think my favorite is the Bertolli pasta coupon.  If this coupon is included in our insert (it was not included, but could be ordered from ebay or a coupon clipping service) & allows doubling, it should be really helpful toward getting a great deal:   

Save $0.60/1 Bertolli any Pasta Sauce (3/20)

Please note:  Regional coupon inserts & value differences are to be expected...but this sneak peek should give us an idea of what types of coupons are coming our way! :-)

Michaels 20% Off Entire Purchase...including sale items!

 Michaels Craft store has a "Michaels Madness Event" going on this weekend (Sunday 2/20 & Monday 2/21, only) in which you can use a coupon to get 20% OFF your entire purchase (including sale items!).  You can print this as well as other Michael's coupons here.  See coupons for any details and exclusions. 

 

 TIP:  Some of their baskets are going to be 50% off before the 20% off coupon!  If you need baskets for organizing/other...a 70% savings is GREAT!

Craving Chocolate?...Head out to Hy-Vee!

I was just at Hy-Vee today to pick up some $1 pretzels and $1.99/lb. 85% lean ground beef (see the rest of the Hy-Vee deals list for this week here).  I also found that they have a major sale of their valentine chocolate going on right now.  Most of it was priced at $0.50 per ~10 oz. bag!  Yum!...and as of around 1pm today, Friday 2/18/11, they still had plenty to choose from! 

Here's a photo of a bag I bought...the chocoholic in me just couldn't resist! ;-)

Palmers Chocolate, 10 oz., $0.50!

 If you're craving chocolate, or just want to have some on hand to use in cookie recipes, etc...it's a good excuse anyway, right???  Be sure to head on out soon!

 

Sentry Deals Week of 2/17/11 - 2/23/11!

I've been hearing that some area Sentry stores are doubling coupons!  You'll need to check with your store's customer service to determine whether (and when) they are doubling.  If your store is doubling, you can snag some great deals this week!

Here are some of my favorite deals for the week of 2/17 - 2/23, 2011:

Produce

Cut Watermelon $.49/lb.
= $0.49/lb.

Green Giant Red B Size Potatoes, 3 lb. bag, $1.89
= $1.89 (0.63/lb.)

Grocery Deals

Newman's Own Pasta Sauce $2.49
+ use $1/1 any Newman's own product (facebook)
= $.49 after doubled coupon

Madison Area Mall Coupons (2/18/11)!

 Planning a trip out to the mall or other retail stores this weekend?  Here's this week's list of printable coupons that apply to Madison area stores!  Let us know (in comments below this post) what kinds of fantastic deals you find!  Happy Shopping! 

• Aeropostale - $10 off $50 Exp 2/27
• Banana Republic Factory Outlet - 20% off $75+ purchase Exp 2/21
• Barnes & Noble - 15% off one item Exp 2/21
• Bath & Body Works - Free Signature Collection Travel Size item with any purchaseExp 2/22
• Cacique (Lane Bryant Intimates) - $25 off $75 Exp 2/22
• Carter’s - $10 off $50 Exp 3/9
• Children’s Place - 15% off purchase Exp 3/10
• Coldwater Creek - $20 off $100 Exp 2/21
• Family Christian - 25% off purchase Exp 2/27
• Famous Footwear - 10% off purchase Exp 2/21
• Gap Outlet - 20% off $75 purchase Exp 2/21
• Hobby Lobby - 40% off regular priced item Exp 2/19
• JC Penney - $10 off $50 Exp 3/10
• Kirkland’s - $5 off $25 Exp 3/14
• Lane Bryant - $25 off $75 Exp 2/22
• Macy’s - 10%-15% off Select Sale & Clearance Items Exp 2/21
• Michael’s - 50% off regular priced item Exp 2/19
• Nine West Outlet- 15% off purchase Exp 2/27
• Old Navy - 25% off single purchase Facebook exclusive Exp 2/17
• Party City - 20% off $40 Exp 2/28
• Sears - $10 off $100 Valid 2/18-2/19
• Tanger - Get Coupons for your Tanger Outlet Mall
• Target - Various Coupons
• Walgreens – Various Coupons in the February Coupon Book (found in-store).
• World Market - $10 off $30 Exp 2/20
• Yankee Candle - $10 off $25 Exp 3/6
• Yankee Candle - BOGO Free Large Jar Candle or Tumbler Exp 2/21

Thanks, Mojosavings!

"Old" Entertainment Center is "New" again...for FREE!

Not sure what to do with your old entertainment center after buying a newer (& differently sized) TV?  My family and I have really been holding back on spending much for "extras" lately.  However, during the 2010 Black Friday Sales, I was able to find a great deal on a newer TV & we decided to make this our "family" Christmas present.  The new TV is larger and would no longer fit our old entertainment center, so we had to decide if we wanted to buy a new entertainment center (most "good" quality pieces I was looking at were in the $400-$600+ range...and it was just killing me to spend that amount) or make an attempt at hacking up our old one to fit the new TV!

Here's a (slightly corny) video showing what my husband came up with...

I'm loving it!  It meets all of our needs & it didn't cost us a dime!

Have you come up with other ways to use your old entertainment center?  Please share your thoughts & ideas in the comments section below this post!

Copps Deals Week of 2/17/11 - 2/23/11!

You can double up to five manufacturer coupons (with a value of $1.00 or less) on Saturdays and Wednesdays (through Sat. July 9th, 2011).  Your total order needs to be at least $25 before tax and after store coupons, and you need to use your Roundy's rewards card in order for your coupons to double.  Individual store coupon policies may vary, so be sure to check in with customer service. 

There are several special promotions going on at Copps this week...

~$5 FREE Gas Rebate Offer: Buy $20 of Participating General Mills Products in a single transaction, with Roundy’s Card, Get $5 in Free Gas Via Mail-in Rebate UPDATE:  Be aware, shoppers have been finding that the $20 General Mills purchase required is calculated AFTER all coupons are taken into account. Thanks, Dannelle!

~$5 OFF next trip promotion:  $5.00 your next shopping trip when you buy $15 in participating products (using your Roundy's card)

~For every $50 spent in a single shopping order with Roundy's card from 2/17 - 2/19, receive a checkout values coupon good for $10 off a purchase of $25 or more at Boston Store or Younkers (redeemable from 2/17 - 2/26)
 

 ~General Mills cereal promotion:  ~Save $10 instantly when you buy 6 boxes (selected 8.7 - 25.25 oz. varieties) at regular price, with card, plus get coupons at check out for 1 gallon of milk and 1 dozen eggs FREE!  Update: Be aware that if you are trying to combine this deal with the General Mills $5 free gas rebate deal, the $10 that comes off instantly counts against your $20 total.  Thanks, Dannelle!

Here are Copps deals that stand out for me this week.  What are your favorites?:

Produce

Fancy navel oranges from california, 4 lb. bag), $2.00 (only Sunday 2/20 and Mon. 2/21)
+ use in ad coupon to get sale price
= $2.00 ($0.50/lb)

Whole White Mushrooms, 8 oz., $0.98 (limit 1, thereafter $1.49 each)
+ use cut back coupon booklet coupon to get sale price
= $0.98

Another Way to Find and Print Coupons!

 

Madison Coupon Connection now has another way for you to find and print coupons!  Be sure to check it out! 

• Just click the "Print Coupons!" tab toward the top of the page of the Madison Coupon Connection blog.  This will take you to the "Printable Coupons!" page!
• Click on the offers you'd like to print.
• Once you're done selecting offers, make sure your printer is on. Then, click the red "Print coupons" button. If you've never printed online coupons before, you will need to take a short moment to install coupon printer software.  For more information on the Coupons.com coupon printer software, visit the coupons.com website by clicking here.
• Take your printed & clipped coupons to the store and save!

You can still search for more coupons in the "Coupon Database" at the bottom of the page, too!

Incredible Egg Coupon is Back!

Yay!  The Printable Incredible Egg Coupon is back!

$0.55 off when you buy any 2 one-dozen cartons of eggs!

Go to Smartsource.com to find & print yours!

Thanks, Hip2Save!

Hy-Vee Deals 2/13/11 - 2/19/11!

This week (2/13 - 2/19, 2011), Hy-Vee doesn't seem to be having their typical 1 or 2 Day special sale.  So, we'll be able to shop for these deals any day this week :-).   

Here are the better deals I'm seeing for this week.  Which are your favorites?:

Produce

Monterey Whole White Mushrooms, 8 oz. pkg, $1.18

= $1.18 ~slice and freeze these for later use!

Grimmway Farms Baby Carots, 32 oz., $1.77

= $1.77 ($0.88/lb.)

General Grocery

Kellogg's Cereal, Corn Flakes 12 oz., $1.33 each

+ use $1/3 Kellogg's Cereal, exp. 3-27-11 (RP 02/13/11) 10 oz. or larger

= 1.00 each, when you buy three

Betty Crocker Super Moist Cake Mix, select varieties, 18 to 19.5 oz., $0.99 each

AND Betty Crocker Frosting, select varieties, 12 to 16 oz., $1.50 each

+ use $0.75 off Betty Crocker Cake Mix AND Frosting, exp. 3-26 (SS 1/30/11) 

= $0.87 each, when you buy both cake mix and frosting

Knorr Sides, select varieties, 4 to 5 oz., $1.00 each

+ use $0.50/2 Knorr Rice or Pasta Side, exp. 2-27-11 (RP 01/30/11) 

= $0.75 each, when you buy two

Hy-Vee Pretzels, select varieties, 10 or 15 oz., $1.00 

= $1.00

Swiss Miss Cocoa Mix, select varieties, 10 ct., $1.00 each

+ use $0.50/2 Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa, exp. 3-31-11 (ALL YOU Jan '11) 

= $0.75 each, when you buy two 

La Choy Soy or Teriyaki Sauce, 10 oz, $1.00 each

= $1.00 each

Meat

85% Lean Fresh Ground Beef, $1.99/lb. (limit 2 lbs)

= $1.99/lb.

Refrigerated

Blue Bonnet Sticks, Regular or lower fat, 16 oz., $0.48

= $0.48

Dean's Dip, select varieties, 12 or 16 oz, $1.50 each

+ use $1/2 Dean's Dip, exp. 3-31-11 (SS 01/23/11)

or + use $1/2 Dean's Dip Product printable 

= $1.00 each, when you buy two ~if you need some, this is a decent price. However, if you shop at Copps during a sale on a double day you can often use this type of coupon combo to get these for free or nearly free!

Household

Ziploc storage or freezer bags, select varieties, 10 to 20 ct, $1.79

+ use $1/2 Ziploc Brand Bags (SS 02/13/11) 

or + use $1/2 Ziploc Brand Bags, exp. 3-5-11 (SS 01/09/11 #2) 

= $1.29 each

Free Redbox Movie Rental on Valentine's Day!

Rent a movie for FREE at Redbox with this code!

Promotional code:  BEMINE (valid 2/14/11, only)

Choose the "rent with promotional code" button once you get to the redbox kiosk.

Remember to return your movie by 9pm the following day to avoid a $1.00/day charge.

Thanks, My Frugal Adventures!

Walgreens Deals Week of 2/13/11 - 2/19/11!

Here are the better Walgreens deals I'm seeing for this week (2/13 - 2/19, 2011):

Chex Mix or Kettle Chips, $1.50 

+ use $0.50/1 coupon from the 1/30 SmartSource insert 
or + use 
$0.50/2 Chex Mix or Chex 100 Calorie Snack printable
or + use $1/1 coupon from the 1/30 RedPlum insert 

= $0.50-$1.00 each

Campbell’s Chicken Noodle or Tomato Soup, $0.50
+ use in ad coupon to get sale price

+ use  $0.50/3 printable 

or + use $0.40/4 coupon from the 2/13 SmartSource insert 

= $0.33 - $0.40 each!

Reach Total Care Toothbrush or Floss $2.99

~buy one, get $2 register rewards
+ use $0.50/1 coupon from the 1/9 SmartSource insert 

or + use Buy One Get One Free coupon from the 10/10 RedPlum insert 

or + use $2/1 coupon from the 10/10 RedPlum insert 

= $0.49 - FREE + moneymaker!

Twizzlers, 11 to 16 oz., $1.33 each
~buy 3 or more Twizzlers, get $3 coupon at checkout good on your NEXT in-store purchase of Hershey's easter Candy, 8.2 - 12 oz.
= $1.33 each + $3 toward easter candy

Gilette Fusion Razor System, $9.99
~ buy one, get $4 register rewards 

+ use $4/1 coupon from the 1/30 P&G insert 

= $1.99!

For more Walgreens deals this week, visit Money Saving Mom!

Thanks, Money Saving Mom! 

Attention: Facebook News Feed Fix!

Attention all FACEBOOK users!  Due to a recent default setting change on Facebook, you may not be seeing all of Madison Coupon Connection's posts in your News Feed! 

Here's how to fix this:

1. Log in to your Facebook page
2. Click on the "Most Recent" drop down menu toward the top of the page
3. Highlight and click "Edit Options" at the bottom of the menu
4. Under "Show posts from:", choose "All of your friends and pages".
5. Be sure you have "Liked" Madison Coupon Connection's facebook page by clicking the "Like" button when you go here. OR, simply click the "Like" button on the Facebook side banner of the Madison Coupon Connection blog.

Copps Trip 2/12/11 $10.72...74% OFF!

Copps Trip 2/12/11...$10.72 (74% OFF!)

I had a pretty good Copps trip this morning & am pretty happy with grabbing this stuff at an over-all 74% OFF!  The Frigo Cheese was all sold out, though, even at 7:00am!...I'll probably make a trip to Copps again on the next double-day (Wed. 2/16) to see if it's in stock again, by then.  I also received two new catalina print out coupons for $1/1 on the Activia Dessert yogurt, which can be doubled to get more of this yogurt FREE this week! See my transactions from this trip below & see more detail about coupons available for match-ups this week at Copps in my previous post:  Copps Deals Week of 2/10/11 - 2/16/11!

Here's what I chose to buy today (in two transactions):

Transaction #1:

1-Roundy's Large eggs, 1 dozen, $0.99 (sale price)

1-Philadelphia Cooking Cream, original, 10 oz. $0.50 (with coupon) 

1-Dannon Activia Dessert Yogurt, 4 pack, FREE (with doubled coupon)

2-Kemps Sour Cream, 16 oz., $0.10 moneymaker, each (with doubled coupons)!

1-$20 Copps Gift Card (to be sure my transaction met the $25 required to double coupons)

= $21.29-$20 Copps Gift Card = $1.29 :-)

Transaction #2:

1-1.02 lb Asparagus at $1.49/lb, $1.52 (sale price)

2-Roundy's Large eggs, 1 dozen, $0.99 (sale price)

2-Silk Soymilk with DHA, 1/2 gallon, $1.89 (sale price) (rang up as $2.50 each, though,...so I need to go back to customer service on this one)

1-Dannon Activia Dessert Yogurt, 4 pack, FREE (with doubled coupon)

2-Nestle Refrigerated Cookie dough, $0.50 each (with doubled coupons)

1-Coffee-mate, hazelnut, 16 oz., $0.34 moneymaker (with doubled coupon)

1-8th continent Soymilk, 1/2 gallon, $1.49 (with doubled coupon)

= $10.65, + used Copps gift card from first transaction to pay for this! :-)

Totals this Trip:

TOTAL Spent: $10.72 (not including Copps gift card)

Total SAVED: $30.62 (74% OFF!)

Sunday 2/13/11 Coupon Insert SNEAK PEEK!

It looks like we're going to be getting two (?three?) coupon inserts this next Sunday (2/13/11)!

One General Mills

One RedPlum
update: There may also be a SmartSource Insert coming!

Click here to see the list at Sunday Coupon Preview!

Please note:  Regional coupon inserts & value differences are to be expected...but this sneak peek should give us an idea of what types of coupons are coming our way! :-)

ALDI Trip 2/11/11...$15.80!

ALDI Trip 2/11/11...$15.80!

I typically go to ALDI about once per week & usually stock up on milk & produce, at least.  Oh, and of course there's the occasional cheese puffs purchase I just can't pass up! ;-).  

Here's what I chose to buy today...all for $15.80!:

1-box of 4 "Honey Bear" pears, $0.99!

1-box of red seedless grapes, 2 lbs., $1.78 = $0.89/lb!

1-box Mercer animal crackers, $0.99

1-box "Savoritz for Kids, Sharks" baked cheddar snack crackers, $1.39 ~my kids love these!

2-gallons skim milk, $1.99 each

1-pineapple, $0.99!

1-bag Clancy's cheese puffs, $0.99 ;-)

1-package "Boulder" decorated plates, 45 ct., $1.89

1-bunch Del Monte bananas, $0.81 ($0.39/lb.)

1-bag "Little Salad Bar" garden salad, 12 oz., $0.99!

2-packages "Bake House Creations" crescent rolls, on sale for $0.50 each ~I haven't tried these yet but figured they might be worth a try for the price!

TOTAL cost = $15.80! :-)

If you would like to see more of my trips to ALDI, click the "ALDI" tab toward the top of the page, or click here!

Madison Area Mall Coupons (2/11/11)!

Heading out to the mall or other retail stores this weekend?  Here's this week's list of printable coupons that apply to Madison area stores!  Let us know (in comments below this post) what kinds of fantastic deals you find!  Happy Shopping!

• Aeropostale – Donate pair of Jeans get 25% off Jeans purchase Exp 2/13
• Barnes & Noble - 30% off select titles & Valentine’s Day Gifts Exp 2/14
• Barnes & Noble - BOGO 50% Kids Valentine’s Day Titles Exp 2/14
• Bath & Body Works - Free Signature Collection Travel Size item with any purchase Exp 2/22
• Borders (with Borders Rewards Membership) - Save 40% off list price of any one item Exp 2/14 (Thanks, Hip2Save!)
• Build A Bear - $5 off $25 Exp 2/14
• Children’s Place - 15% off purchase Exp 3/17
• Coldwater Creek - $30 off $150 Exp 2/13
• Family Christian - 25% off purchase Exp 2/27
• Forever 21 - 30% off regular priced intimates Valid 2/11-2/14
• Gap Outlet - BOGO Free Valid 2/12 Only
• Gap Outlet - 20% off $75 purchase Exp 2/21
• Gordman’s - 20% off one item Exp 2/14
• Hobby Lobby - 40% off Vintaj products Exp 2/12
• JC Penney - $50 off $250 jewelry purchase Exp 2/14
• Kirkland’s - $5 off $25 Exp 3/14
• Kohl’s - 15% off purchase Valid 2/11 – 2/14
• Michael’s - 40% off regular priced item Exp 2/12 UPDATE: more great Michael's coupons here!
• Office Depot - $10 off $50 Exp 2/14
• Old Navy - 25% off single purchase Facebook exclusive Exp 2/17
• Sears - $20 off $99 Jewelry/Watch purchase Exp 2/14
• Tanger - Get Coupons for your Tanger Outlet Mall
• Target - Various Coupons
• Victoria’s Secret - Free Lace Panty & Mini Purse with any Pink purchase (while supplies last)
• Walgreens – Various Coupons in the February Coupon Book (found in-store).
• World Market - $10 off $30 Exp 2/20
• Yankee Candle - $10 off $25 Exp 3/6
• Yankee Candle - B2G1 Free Large Jar or Tumbler Candles Exp 2/13

Thanks, Mojosavings!