ALDI Deals, Starting 02/27/2013

Here are some of the deals at ALDI this week...

• Weds. 02/27 ONLY: Fresh Chicken Breasts 5 lb avg weight $1.69/lb
• Welby Adjustable Rollator $69.99 ea
• Welby 9" Ice Bag - Reusable $4.99 ea
• Casa Mamita Taco Shells 4.6 oz $0.99 ea
• Casa Mamita Pasta and Sauce Mixes Assorted Varieties 4.3-4.5 oz $0.89 ea 
• Benita Chopped Green Chilies 4 oz $0.69 ea
• Benita Salsa Diced Tomatoes 14.5 oz $0.89 ea
• Benita Mexican Style Corn 11 oz $0.79 ea
• Benita Cafe Espresso 10 oz $2.99 ea
• Benita Mini Ice Cream Bars Variety pk 18 oz $2.99 ea
• Clancy's Tortilla Chips Restaurant Style or White Rounds 13 oz $1.19 ea
• Sea Queen Battered Fish Tenders 18 oz $2.99 ea
• Breakfast Best Heat and Serve Patties 6.4 oz $0.99 ea
• Gardenline Seed Packets Assorted Varieties $0.49 ea
• Roma Tomatoes 16 oz $0.99 ea
• Avocados $0.59 ea
• Multi-Colored Peppers 3 pk $1.99 ea
• Mandarin Oranges 3 lb $2.49 ea
• Mangoes $0.69 ea

For more information about ALDI, visit their homepage!

Sunday's CVS Trip

This week everywhere I went deal shopping, they were out of most of what I wanted.  Rite-Aid had absolutely nothing left in stock, CVS only had a couple deals left, but were our of the freebies, and I didn't even try Walgreen's - come on Westminster drug stores, get with the program!  Anyway, I did get a couple things at CVS, luckily one of those things was the Advil PM, which Joe needed.  Here's how it went down...

3-20 ct Advil PM Caplets $5.99 ea - $0.99 ea Sale - $1/1 MC x 3 - $3 ECB wyb $15 = 3/$9

2 Poise Panty Fresheners 24 ct $4.99 ea - $1 ea Sale - $3/1 CVS x 2 - $1/1 MC x 2 - $1 ECB Lmt 1 = 2/FREE + $1 Money-maker!

+ $0.46 Tax 

- $2.67 ECBs used to Pay

Total OOP: $9.77 - $4 ECB's Earned = Net OOP: $5.77, which is pretty good for the Advil PM which I needed to buy anyway!

Linked to Simply CVS!

Tempt my Tummy Tuesday: Pork Chops in Mushroom Gravy

Pork chops in mushroom gravy were always my requested birthday dinner growing up.  My mom made the best.  It's not the healthiest meal in the world, but everything in moderation, right?  Anyway, it's really quite delicious, and so VERY simple!  Crock-pot simple that is, totally my style!

1. Add pork chops/tips to crock-pot.
2. Top with 1 can/carton Cream of Mushroom Soup (I use an organic variety), 1 can/carton's worth of water, and 1 packet Onion Soup mix. 
   
   Stir.
3. Cook on low 6-8 hours until pork chops are done and falling apart.  
4. Thicken liquid in crock-pot with a flour/water mixture to make gravy.
5. Serve pork chops and mushroom gravy over rice and with a vegetable.
   
6. Eat and enjoy! Refrigerate leftovers.

For more AWESOME recipes, visit Tempt my Tummy Tuesday!

Menu Plan Monday - 02/25/2013

This week Joe and I have some decluttering we want to do around the house, so I am keeping our meals simple.  I shouldn't have to but much this week, hopefully!  Here's what's on the menu this week...

Breakfasts: Cereal, Waffles, or Bagels with Fruit

Lunches: Leftovers, Grilled Cheese or PB and J Sandwiches

Dinners:

Sunday - Zuppa Tuscana with Foccacia Bread

Monday - Baked Fish Fillets, and French Fries, Vegetable

Tuesday - Crock-pot Pork Roast with Baked Potatoes and a Vegetable

Wednesday - Fried (leftover) Potatoes and Onions, Sausage, Eggs, and Toast

Thursday - TBA, We will be working at Joe's Grandfather's house again.

Friday - Baked Ziti with Garlic Bread and Broccoli

Saturday - Homemade Pizza with Veggies and Dip

Extras: Single Layer Cake with leftover homemade frosting

For more AWESOME menu plans, visit Org Junkie!

Weekly Spending Report: 02/17-23/2013

This week was, well crazy, see...

• Wednesday's Shopper's Trip (Kraft singles, 2 pks breads, and a variety pk of chips): $19.86 oop
• Thursday's CVS Trip (1 pkg Chocolate Covered Blueberries): $0.72, Earned $0.67 ECB's
• Thursday's Rite-Aid Trip (5 Garnier Fruitis Shampoos): $1.65 oop, Earned $5 UP+Rewards
• Thursday's Micheal's Trip (1 Gorilla Super Glue, used a Coupon): $3.17 oop
• Thursday's Petco Trip (new kitty litter scoop and a free can of cat food): $5.33 oop
• Thursday's Walgreen's Trip (2 Windex Touch up cleaners, 1 Snicker's Heart): $2.64 oop, Earned $1.50 in Balance Rewards
• Thursday's ALDI Trip (Eggs, Potatoes, and 2 lbs butter): $7.96 oop
• Thursday's Lowe's Trip + Return (bought items for my new water faucet, and pellets for litter): $28.46 oop, Earned $12.17 Cash from Return
• Saturday's Dollar Tree Trip: $7.24 oop

• Saturday's Giant Trip: $31.75 oop

Total OOP: $108.78 - $19.34 Earned Rewards/Refund = Net OOP: $89.44  Not great, but we did get stocked up on some good deals, that should last us through March!

Lined to Couponaholic

Linked to Frugal Follies 
x 2

Frugal Finds Friday: Bone Broth

 Bone broth is something I discovered last year, and have been making ever since.  It is a great way to use up something that would normally get thrown away, and is very nutrient dense.  I also LOVE how SIMPLE it is to make; simple is definitely my style!  The way I do it is:

1. Cook a whole chicken in the crock-pot during the day.

2. Pick chicken after dinner, placing meat into freezer bags, and skin and bones back into the crock-pot.

3. Add any vegetable scraps you have (I save mine in a bag in the freezer), and 6-8 cups of water (depending on the size of your crock-pot).

4. Let your broth cook on low overnight about 12-16 hours.

5. Allow broth to cool some, and drain through a colander into a large bowl or pot.  Skim any fat off the top, and measure your broth into containers or bags for the freezer (I usually do 1 or 2 cups each).

6. Repeat.  I usually do just 2 batches, but some do 3 or 4.  Each subsequent batch will be weaker than the first.

Finished broth.

Linked to Homemade Mondays
Linked to Works for Me Wednesday
Linked to Simply Rebekah

What are your frugal finds for this week?

ALDI Deals, Starting 02/20/2013

Here are some of the great deals at ALDI this week...

• Weds. 02/20 ONLY: Tyson Fresh Beef Pot Roast Kit 2.75 lb $7.99 ea
• Kitchen Living Stainless Steel Fry and Serve Pan $19.99 ea
• Kitchen Living Stainless Steel 5 Qt Colander $3.99 ea
• Simply Nature Kids Hidden Vegetable Mini Penne or Twisted Macaroni 12 oz $1.39 ea
• Priano Italian Diced Tomatoes 14.5 oz $0.59 ea
• Priano Roasted Garlic Alfredo Sauce 15 oz $1.69 ea
• Priano Filled Italian Pasta Assorted Varieties 8.8 oz Dry $1.79 ea
• Priano Lasagna Sheets 9 oz $0.99 ea
• Tuscan Garden Croutons Assorted Varieties 6 oz $0.99 ea
• Tuscan Garden Italian Dressings Original or Zesty 16 oz $1.39 ea
• Savoritz Mini Cheese or PB Crackers 7.5 oz $1.99 ea
• Organic Russets Potatoes $2.29/3 lb bag
• Multi-colored Peppers $1.99/3 pk
• Mushrooms $0.89/8 oz
• Organic Grape Tomatoes $2.29/8 oz
• Green Bell Peppers $0.99/2 pk
• Carrots $0.79/2 lbs

For more information about ALDI, visit their homepage!

Tempt my Tummy Tuesday: Chili's-style Salsa

Chili's is one of my favorite places to eat, and the best part, chips and salsa of course!  So I finally decided, after some persuasive begging from my husband, to find a knock-off recipe that I could make at home.  I had several lined up to try, but I only got through the first recipe, because it was almost identical!  This recipe is simple, easy, and delicious!

Ingredients:

1 - 29 oz Can Whole Tomatoes, Drained

1/2 small Can Whole/Sliced Jalapenos, Drained (not pickled)

1/2 tsp Salt

1/2 tsp Sugar

1 tsp Lime Juice

I put everything into a mixing bowl, and use an immersion blender to puree/mix it all up, but you could probably use a blender or a food processor too.  Refrigerate at least one hour to allow the flavors to blend, and store leftovers in the refrigerator as well.  I'm not sure how long this will last, about the longest we've kept it is two weeks, because that's about as long as it lasts; it's very yummy!

For more AWESOME recipes, visit Tempt my Tummy Tuesday!
Linked to How to Tuesday!

Menu Plan Monday: 02/18/2013

This week Joe and I have a LOT of projects around the house that I want to get knocked out.  I know we can do it once we get ourselves started, that is always the hardest part, just getting started.  I'm going to try and not buy much at the stores this week either, so we'll see how that goes.  Here's what's on the menu this week...

Breakfasts: Waffles, Cold Cereal

Lunches: Leftovers, PB and J/Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Dinners:

Sunday - Chili's with Joe's Grandfather

Monday - Fried Leftover Potatoes and Onions, Bacon, Eggs, and Toast

Tuesday - Shrimp Poppers with Baked French Fries

Wednesday - Zuppa Tuscana with Foccacia Bread

Thursday - Spaghetti with Meatballs, Green Beans, and Garlic Bread

Friday - Homemade Pizza, Carrot and Celery Sticks with Dip

Saturday - TBA, probably out again with Joe's Grandfather, since we'll be working in his basement all day.

Extras: Pudding, Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies

For more AWESOME Menu Plans, visit Org Junkie!

Weekly Spending Report: 02/10-16/2013

This week I continued restocking the freezers and pantry, and stocking up on good deals.  Here's what I ended up with...

• Sunday's CVS Trip: $1.33 oop, Earned $2 ECB's
• Sunday's Walgreen's Trip: $1.99 oop, Earned $3 RR and 2000 Balance Points (= $2)
• Sunday's Rite-Aid Trip: $7.13 oop, Earned $9 UP+Rewards
• Sunday's Target Trip: $22.17 oop, Earned $5 Gift card 

 + 2 large bags cat chow, not pictured

• Monday's CVS Trip (just Doritos Joe picked up with a prescription): $4.29 oop 
• Tuesday's Thrift Store Trip (Jeans and Shirt for me): $9.98 oop

• Tuesday's Wal-mart Trip: $57.05 oop

• Tuesday's Staples Trip (Ink and Tissues 2/$0.99): $11.11 oop
• Earned $107.76 in a Rebate Check from a Dr, so we decided to add it to the grocery money
• Thursday's Giant Trip: $31.62 oop

• Thursday's Micheal's Trip (just 1 bag of candy for a gift): $3.17 oop
• Thursday's ALDI Trip: $23.99 oop

Total OOP: $173.83 - $128.76 Earned Rewards/Cash = Net oop: $45.07 -- Without the check, that's a LOT, but the freezers are finally starting to look stocked again.  I am going to try r-e-a-l-l-y hard next week to stay out of the stores, and away from the good deals, and hopefully save some money in the process!

Frugal Finds Friday: Stretching Taco Meat

When I first got married, I made taco meat the same way my mother always had, 1 lb ground beef + 1 seasoning pkt and water = taco meat.  But as I got older, and money got scarcer, I began experimenting with ways that I could make everything stretch further, including our meat.  Meat is expensive, so I really want to get the most bang for my buck.  I started out just adding a can of tomatoes to my taco meat.  That was received well; the tomatoes stayed on the tacos better because they were already in the meat, and it was one less thing to balance on top.  The latest thing I've added is cooked pinto beans.  I put these in our chili, so it seemed like a natural pairing for the taco meat.  It is super YUMMY!  My husband isn't that into beans, and he even liked it - score!  I also learned to stretch the meat even further by not serving tacos, but making nachos or taco salads instead.  This makes it easy for Joe and I to fill up with using little meat.  A pound of beef now makes at least 6 meals + leftovers for us, just by using the above tips!

For my taco meat recipe, go here!

Linked to Homemade Mondays!
Linked to How to Tuesday!

ALDI Deals, Starting 02/13/2013

Here are some of the deals at ALDI this week...

• Wednesday 02/13 ONLY: Fresh USDA Choice Boneless Ribeye Steak $7.99/lb
• Fusia Soy, Light Soy, or Teriyaki Sauce 15 oz $1.19 ea
• Fusia Wok Sauces Assorted Varieties 12 oz $1.69 ea
• Fusia Rice Crackers 3.53 oz $1.49 ea
• Fusia Asian Trail Mix 8 oz $1.99 ea
• Fusia Pork or Chicken Egg Rolls 12.26 ea $2.49 ea
• Fusia Mini Egg Rolls 7 oz $1.99 ea
• Bolthouse Farms Amazing Mango Juice Smoothie 15.2 oz $1.99 ea
• Sea Queen Fish Fillets Crunchy or Battered 19-19.2 oz $2.99 ea
• Sea Queen Tilapia 16 oz $3.49
• Sea Queen Tilapia Fillets Value pk 32 oz $5.49
• Strawberries $1.99/lb
• Pineapple $1.89 ea 
• Cantaloupe $1.39 ea
• Lemons $1.69/2 lb bag
• Blueberries $1.79/6 oz 
• Navel Oranges $1.79/4 lb bag

For more information about ALDI, visit their homepage!

Sunday's Rite-Aid Trip

Rite-Aid was a very fruitful stop this week.  I was able to get some deals for our stockpile (body wash and a light bulb), as well as some things that I can sell at the Sept. flea market we do (toothpaste and Sucrets).  Here's how it went down...

1 GE Light Bulb $6.99 - $3 Sale - $3/1 in ad Coupon - $1/1 MC = FREE!
2 Colgate Toothpastes $3.99 ea - $0.49 ea Sale - $1/2 MC - $3 UP+Rewards x 2 = 2 FREE!
2 tins Sucrets $4.99 ea - $3.49 ea Sale - $1/1 MC x 2 - $1 UP+Rewards wyb 2 = 2/FREE!
2 Gillette Body Washes $4.99 ea - $0.99 ea Sale - $1/2 MC - $2 UP+Rewards wyb 2 = 2/$5
+ $1.14 Tax
- $8 UP+Rewards from last week used to Pay
Total OOP: $7.13, Earned $9 UP+Rewards for next week!

Sunday's Walgreen's Trip

Lastly, we stopped into Walgreen's, and they had everything I wanted except the razors, so I just stocked up on some PB instead.  It wasn't as good of a deal, but at least it was something that we use on a regular basis.  The cashier was having a horrible time with the coupons, finally a manager came up to over-ride things, I'm not sure why he didn't just do that in the first place?!  Anyway, I still got my deals, and that's all that mattered...

1-10 ct Advil Congestion Relief $7.29 - $2.29 Sale - $3/1 MC = $2 +
1-10 ct Advil Congestion and Allergy Relief $7.99 - $2.99 Sale - $3/1 MC = $2 - 2000 Balance Points wyb 2 (= $2) = 2/$2!
2 JIF PB $3.99 ea - $1.49 ea Sale = 2/$5
1 Chloraseptic Spray $6.79 - $2.80 Sale - $1/1 MC - $3 RR = FREE!
- $10 RR used to Pay
Total OOP: $1.99, Earned $3 RR and 2000 Balance Points (= $2)

Sunday's CVS Trip

There wasn't a whole lot for me at CVS this week, but I stopped in and rolled my ECB's anyway.  Here's what I ended up with...

1 Colgate Max Fresh Toothpaste $3.99 - $0.99 Sale - $2.50/1 CVS Coupon = $0.50

2 Halls Defense drops $2.67 ea - $1.19 ea Sale - $1/2 MC - $1 ECB/2 = 2/$1

1-24 pk Just the Basics H2O $3.99 - $1.49 Sale = $2.50

- $4 ECB's used to Pay

Total OOP: $1.33, Earned $2 ECB's ($1 from Green Bag Tag) for next week!

Linking to Simply CVS!

Tempt my Tummy Tuesday: Taco Meat

When I do a freezer cooking session I almost always include taco meat, it's a favorite around here, and pretty versatile too.  I use it for tacos, burritos, nachos, taco salad, and a Mexican lasagna.  I usually fry up two pounds at a time which makes about 6 meals for us + leftovers.

1. Fry 2 pounds of ground beef (or turkey) with 2 medium finely diced onions until meat is cooked through and onions are soft and transparent.
2. Drain the meat and onions in a colander and then add back to the skillet.
3. Add 2 small cans diced tomatoes, (I got Muir Glen ones from the Dollar Tree), or 2 pints home-canned diced tomatoes + all juice.
4. Add 2 cups cooked pinto beans.
5. Add recommended/desired amount of taco seasoning (I use the large canister of McCormick from BJ's I think it was 1/4 or 1/2 c for 2 lbs).
6. Stir everything together and let cook until juice (from tomatoes) has reduced greatly.
7. I measure our meat out into Ziploc freezer bags by the cup.  This go round I made us nachos for dinner with a little leftover for my lunch the next day, plus put 5-1 c bags in the freezer!

For more AWESOME recipes, visit Tempt Your Tummy Tuesday!

Menu Plan Monday: 02/11/2013

This week Joe and I don't have a whole lot planned.  I am going to continue to go through scrapbook paperwork, so that hopefully all 8 years of it will be sorted out and I can start scrap-booking again in March!  Also we are having my sister and dad over for dinner on Saturday for their birthdays.  Which means I also have some presents to make, and a little spot cleaning to do later this week.  It should be a great week though.  Here's what's on the Menu...

Breakfasts: Cold Cereal, Waffles, or Bagels, with Fruit

Lunches: Leftovers or Grilled Cheese or PB and J Sandwiches

Dinners:

Sunday - Homemade Alfredo with Foccacia Bread, and a Vegetable 

Monday - Homemade Pizza

Tuesday - Nachos (made with this meat)

Wednesday - Pancakes, Cooked Apples, and Bacon

Thursday - Valentine's Day! Grilled Steak, Sauteed Mushrooms, Baked Potatoes, Imperial Crab, and a Vegetable

Friday - Fried LO Potatoes, Eggs, Bacon, and Toast

Saturday - Birthday Dinner! Chicken Pot-pie with Dumplings, Broccoli, and Birthday Cakes (1 yellow with homemade chocolate frosting, 1 yellow with black walnuts and homemade vanilla frosting with coconut on top)

Extras: Chocolate Pudding with Mint Chocolate Bar Chopped up in it (for Joe)

For more AWESOME Menu Plans, visit Org Junkie!

Weekly Spending Report: 02/03-09/2013

I definitely spent a LOT of money this week, but after doing the freezer/pantry challenge last month, everything in the kitchen was looking a little bare.  I did some freezer cooking, so a lot of this food will last through February and into March, including the beef, chipped beef, bacon, butter, sugar, and a few other items I'm sure.  So in the long run, it's definitely worth it, and it was nice to be able and do a little stock-piling shopping this week.  Here's how it went down...

• Tuesday's Giant Trip: $6.42 oop, paid with gift card as well
• Tuesday's Home Depot Trip (4 bags pellets for cat litter): $17.36 oop
• Tuesday's ALDI Trip: $16.42 oop
• Tuesday's CVS Trip: $0.72 oop, Earned $4 ECB's
• Tuesday's Rite-Aid Trip: $7.59 oop, Earned $8 UP+Rewards
• Tuesday's Walgreen's Trip: $2.12 oop, Earned $10 RR and 1,000 Balance Rewards Points (= approx. $1)
• Friday's Amish Market Trip: $40.31 oop
• Friday's BJ's Trip: $38.44 oop
• Friday's Baugher's Trip (just 1/2 gallon Ice Cream): $5.25 oop
• Friday's Safeway Trip (2 Newman's Own Freezer Bag Meals): $8 oop
• Saturday's Shopper's Trip (2 newspaper): $3.99 oop

Total OOP: $146.62 - $19 Rewards Earned = Net OOP: $127.62, That's a lot for us, but most of this will last at least thru February, and into March.  Hopefully next week will be a lot cheaper!

Pantry Challenge Update #5: 01/27-02/02/2013

I am hoping this week ends as well as it started in regards to health in the Rogers' household.  I was finally feeling better Sunday morning, and I was so glad!  Joe and I were able to get a LOT accomplished, I LOVE it when that happens!  We also ate well...

Day #27: Sunday Joe had a meeting to go to so I worked on getting some things caught up around the house, you know, after being sick for-like-ever!  Two loads of laundry, dishes, straightening, tidying, the usual.  Plus we got to chill in the evening with 2 FREE Red-boxes!  We ate pretty good too.

B - None

L - Waffles, Butter and Syrup for Me, PB and J for Joe

D - Fried Potatoes and Onions, Bacon, Eggs, and Toast, with Apple Slices for Dessert

Day #28: Monday brought ice to Westminster, so Joe and I stayed in and cleaned the house today.  I LOVE a clean house!  We also started to put away Christmas.  I know we are a little late in getting everything put away, but I like to make it last as long as possible.  :-)  We also ate pretty well...
B - Waffles
L - Macaroni and Cheese, and Hotdogs
D - Leftover Fried Potatoes, Pancakes, and Creamed Chipped Beef Gravy

Day #29: Tuesday I focused on getting the Christmas decorations put away, which I finished all but getting the tree in the box, which Joe does anyway.  I also decorated for Valentine's day, and thought about a few decoration crafts I'd like to make in February.  Joe and I also mended some jeans that needed iron-on patches.  I ended the day with finishing a load of jeans laundry, and getting my coupon binder all caught up - LOVE it!!  I was definitely feeling better and the day turned out to be a very productive one!  However, the frozen chicken I had gotten down to thaw last night in the fridge was still completely frozen, so we used a gift card for dinner :-)
B - Waffles
L - Leftover Pancakes and Gravy for Me, Leftover Mac and Cheese and Hotdogs for Joe
D - Olive Garden!

Day #30 and #31: I just realized that I never posted the last pantry challenge update, so I have no idea what we ate the last two days of the month, but I'm sure it was good, everything else was!  I can't wait to do this challenge again this summer!

BJ's Trip: 02/08/2013

I've been out of Crystal Light for a while, and just making due, but since a coupon came up, I decided that I didn't want to let it go to waste.  Since we needed butter and bacon anyway after the challenge last month, I decided to go to BJ's and get the best prices on all three items.  Here's what I ended up with...

3 pkgs Nitrate, Nitrite-free Bacon $10.49

3 pkgs Land o Lakes Olive Oil Butter Spread $5.99

4 pkgs Crystal Light Lemon Ice Tea Mix (my secret addition) $5.99 ea - $1/2 MC x 2 = 4/$21.96

 

Total OOP: $38.44

Amish Market Trip 02/08/2013

Today Joe and I had to go to Cockeysville to do some work at his grandfather's house, so while we were there, we did a little more re-stocking of our pantry/freezer.  Things were pretty bare after last month's challenge, so it's been really nice to hit so many good sales this week and get things restocked.  I have spend a good chunk of change this week, but it will be worth it in the long run!  Here's what we ended up with today...

0.80 lb Chipped Beef = $8.76 (I have this packaged for 4 meals worth of Gravy + leftovers)
1.08 lbs Little Cheezers Cracker Pretzels @ $4.69/lb = $5.06
17.78 lbs Raw Sugar @ $1.49/lb = $26.49

Total OOP: $40.31

Frugal Finds Friday: Homemade Astringent

I have used astringent/toner since I turned 13, and that's been quite a few years ago.  I usually bought whatever was on sale, leaning towards Clean and Clear or Sea Breeze Sensitive varieties.  I decided to start making more things from scratch around the house last year, including health and beauty items.  I researched recipes for homemade toner/astringent until I found one that was simple to make, and only took a couple of ingredients.  That's how I roll, simple and cheap is my style, anyway, here's my recipe...

1. I use an old Sea Breeze bottle to start.  Fill the bottle up 1/3 of the way with witch hazel.
2. Fill the bottle just about the rest of the way up with distilled water (2/3).
3. Add a few drops of tea tree oil (mine doesn't have a dropper, so I just eye ball it, but it's probably about 1/2 tsp).
4. Apply your toner with a reusable cloth face pad (I got mine from the Dollar Tree, that way I can wash and reuse them without having to always buy more cotton balls which end up in the trash), or a cotton ball.

 Simple, green, and frugal!

What about you, what was your frugal find this week?

Walgreen's Trip 02/05/2013

Last stop we made on Tuesday was Walgreen's, where I used a $10 gift card from awhile ago to get some free probiotics that we needed.  Here's what I ended up with...

1-30 ct Culturelle $22.99 - $12.99 Sale - $10 RR = FREE!

4 Butterfingers (for Joe, 1 missing, because of Joe) 2/$1 - 1000 Rewards Points wyb 4 (= about $1) = 4/$1

+ $0.12 Tax

- $10 Gift card used to Pay

Total OOP: $2.12, Earned $10 RR and 1000 Rewards Points!

Rite Aid Trip 02/05/2013

I also got to stop into Rite-Aid this week, and I scored some AWESOME deals there...

2 pks Stayfree Maxi Pads $3.99 ea - $0.99 ea Sale - BOGO Free MC ($3) - $2 UP+Rewards x 2 = 2 FREE + $1 Money-maker!

1 CLEAR Shampoo + 1 CLEAR Conditioner $5.99 ea -$1 ea Sale - BOGO Free MC ($4.99) - $1/1 Rite-Aid Values Coupon - $2 UP+Rewards x 2 = 2 FREE!

+ $0.60 Tax

Total OOP: $7.59, Earned $8 UP+Rewards for next week!

CVS Trip 02/05/2013

I was so excited to get back into shopping at the drug stores.  Our stock-pile is growing thin, so I was so happy to get back in the action.  CVS was pretty uneventful.  I had $10 ECB's expiring, and Joe has been asking for some chocolates, so that's what I got, win, win!

4 Variety pks Mars Chocolates $4.49 ea - $1.49 ea Sale - $1/1 CVS Coupon - $1/2 MC x 2 - $4 ECB wyb $12 = 4/$5

1 Wonderful Pistachios $1

+ $0.72 Tax

- $10 ECB 

Total OOP: $0.72, JUST TAX!  Earned $4 ECB for next week!

ALDI Trip 02/05/2013

Joe and I also stopped into ALDI this week to stock up after our freezer/pantry challenge in January.  Here's what we ended up with...

2 containers Sour Cream $1.29 ea = 2/$2.58

1 bunch Organic Bananas $1.38

1 bag Yogurt Raisins $1.79

1 box Onion Soup Mix $0.79

1 bar Mint Chocolate $1.89

1 box Baking Mix $1.99

1-5 lb bag Baking Potatoes $2.39

1-3 lb bag Onions $1.69

1 pk Plain Bagels $1.69

+ $0.23 Tax

Total OOP: $16.42

Giant Trip 02/05/2013

Tuesday Joe and I stopped into Giant to use the rest of our gift card towards a $50 purchase, which would earn us an additional $0.30 off per gallon of gas (up to 35 gallons).  We now have a total of $1.10 off each gallon, I cannot wait to go fill up the suburban, and then let it set until the tool show we are doing next month!  Here's how our grocery shopping went down!

Turkey Hill Naturals Chocolate Ice Cream $4.69 - $1/1 MC - $3.69

1 box Eggo Waffles $2.79 - $0.79 Sale = $2

2 boxes Mrs Paul's Fish Patties $5.99 ea - $3 ea Sale - $1/2 MC = 2/$4.98

1 Qt Organic Half and Half $3.79 - $0.25 Sale = $3.54

1 pt Organic Heavy Cream $3.79 - $0.25 Sale = $3.54

2 lbs Laura's Lean Ground Beef $6.30 and $6.36 = 2/$12.66

1 large JIF PB $5.49

1 Nature's Promise Organic Beef Broth $1.25

4 Newman's Own Pasta Sauces $2.89 ea - $0.89 ea Sale - $1/2 MC x 2 = 4/$6

1 Organic Cream of Mushroom Soup $2.69

2 Bull's Eye BBQ Sauces $1.99 ea - $0.32 ea Sale = 2/$3.34

1-100 ct Giant Tagless Tea Bags $1.25

1 pkg Potato Rolls $3.49 - $0.99 Sale = $2.50

2 bottles Giant Bleach $0.77 ea (50% clearance price) = 2/$1.54

+ $0.10 Tax

- $0.15 for using 3 reusable bags

- $48 Gift card used

Total OOP: $70.81 - $16.49 Sales and Coupons - $48 Gift card = $6.42 oop!

ALDI Deals, starting 02/06/2013

Here are some of this week's deals...

• Wednesday 02/06 ONLY: Cattlemen's Ranch Fresh Filet of Beef Garlic Peppercorn 16 oz $5.99 ea
• Baker's Corner Red Velvet Cake Mix 18.25 oz $1.29 ea
• Aunt Maple's Pancake Mix Pink Chocolate Chip or Red Velvet 8-8.5 oz $1.99 ea
• Belmont 9" Chocolate Cheesecake Sampler 50 oz $9.99 ea
• O'Donnell's Strawberry Cream 750 ml $8.99 ea
• Reggano Fettuccine or Linguine 16 oz $0.99 ea
• Chef's Cupboard Beefy Onion Soup Mix 2.2 oz $0.99 ea
• Baker's Corner Honey or Cajun Cornbread Mix 14.25-15 oz $1.29 ea
• Fit and Active Yolk Free Noodles 12 oz $0.99 ea
• Happy Harvest Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes 14.5 oz $0.89 ea
• Anchor Hocking True Seal 6 piece Glass Bowls with Lids $9.99 ea
• Navel Oranges 4 lb bag $1.79 ea
• Strawberries $1.99/lb
• Cantaloupe $1.39 ea
• Pineapple $1.89 ea
• Grapefruit $0.39 ea
• Mandarins 3 lb bag $2.59 ea

For more information about ALDI, visit their Homepage!

Tempt My Tummy Tuesday: Chili Recipe

With the Superbowl just over, this recipe was fresh in my mind, so I thought I would share it with you today.  My husband loves this chili recipe, and I love that it is so easy to make!  This chili is great with crackers and cheese, and is also wonderful atop a taco salad!  You should make a pot today!

 Ingredients:

1/2 lb fried and drained Ground Beef (or turkey if you want)

1 diced Onion
1 large Red Bell Pepper, diced
1 medium Green Bell Pepper, diced
1 can Pinto Beans, rinsed (or 1 cup crock-pot cooked beans)
1 can Great Northern Beans, rinsed (or 1 cup crock-pot cooked beans)
3 large cans Diced Tomatoes (or 1 Qt + 1 pt home canned)
1 can Chili Seasoned Diced Tomatoes (I get my from ALDI)
1-2 pkts McCormick Mild Chili Seasoning

1. Fry ground beef (or turkey) with onion, drain fat.
2. Add beef/onion mixture to crock-pot with peppers, beans, tomatoes, and seasoning.
3. Cook on low for at least 2 hours and up to 8.
4. Serve with shredded cheese, and crackers.  Refrigerate leftovers.

Linking up to Tempt your Tummy Tuesday!

Menu Plan Monday: 02/04/2013

This week I am planning on doing a lot of paperwork sorting, filing, and organizing.  It should be a nice quiet week here.  We had a good flea market on Saturday, and made enough for groceries for this month, plus some, so that was nice!  Here's what's on the menu for this week...

Breakfasts: Cold or Hot Cereals, Waffles, and/or Bagels with Cream Cheese

Lunches: Leftovers, PB and J Sandwiches, or Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

Dinners:

Sunday - Nachos - Superbowl Sunday!

Monday - Zuppa Tuscana with Foccacia Bread

Tuesday - Pork Chops in the Crock-pot with Mushroom Gravy over Rice, with a Vegetable

Wednesday - Salsa Chicken Bake with a Vegetable

Thursday - Homemade Shrimp Alfredo with Garlic Bread and a Vegetable

Friday - Homemade Pizza 

Saturday - Out :-)

Extras: Brownies leftover from last week, and maybe some new-recipe cookies later in the week.

For more AWESOME menu plans, visit Org Junkie!

Weekly Spending Report: 01/27-02/02/2013

Here's this week's spending totals...

• Monday's Shopper's Trip (1 box Baking Mix): Zero oop, used gift card to pay
• Thursday's ALDI Trip (2 dozen Eggs, and 3 cans Chili Diced Tomatoes): $5.07 oop
• Thursday Giant Trip: Zero oop, cashed in coins for a gift card, and used that to pay

• Friday's Dollar Tree Trip: $16.92 oop (used $3.50 in coupons!)

• Saturday's Shopper's Trip (2 newspapers, PB, and Doritos): $11.98 oop

Total OOP: $33.97 - I LOVE gift cards!

Frugal Finds Friday: Slower Cooker Beans

I have discovered the joys of freezer cooking, and I am finding new ways to get food into the freezer without a lot of work.  Cooking beans in the crock-pot is not only cheaper than buying canned, but healthier as well, and so easy!

I sorted 3 cups dried Pinto Beans, and washed them thoroughly.

I put them in the crock-pot with enough water to cover them, plus a little more, and a little salt. 

I let them cook on low for 8 hours, and then let them cool until I could touch the crock.

I measured the beans out into freezer bags, by the cup, I ended up with 5-1 cup bags for the freezer (which equals about 5 cans), plus 2 cups to use in my 2 lbs of taco meat.

Healthy, easy, and FRUGAL!

What kind of frugal finds did you discover this week?

Linked to Works for Me Wednesday!