We interrupt your regularly scheduled program...

I just wanted to let all of my readers know that my husband and I are going away for 8 days to a Steam and Gas Show on the Eastern Shore, to set up at a Flea Market.  I'll post some pictures when we get back, but I won't be posting this week since there is no wi-fi where we are, and we have ancient phones!  :)

See you all next Tuesday!

Weekly Spending Report: 07/21-27/2013

This week I spent more than I wanted to, but there was the monthly BJ's trip, and that always runs us on the high side for that week.  Next week we'll be away at a Flea Market, so I won't be able to do much shopping after Sunday.  Here's what we ended up with this week...

• Sunday's Shopper's Trip (donuts, and Doritos): $4.98 oop
• Giant Trip (2-100 ct boxes Tea Bags): $2.50 oop
• Wednesday's BJ's Trip: $50.42 oop, Earned $2 Refund
• Wednesday's ALDI Trip (Lettuce and Shredded Cheese): $5.28 oop
• Wednesday's CVS Trip: $0.79 oop 
• Wednesday's Dollar Tree Trip (6-1 lb bags Evap. Sugar Cane, and 2 bags 'Doritos'): $8 oop 
• Saturday's Shopper's Trip (2 newspapers, 2 donuts): $5.97 oop

Total OOP: $77.94 - $2 Refund = Net OOP: $75.94

Linked to Couponaholic! 

Wednesday's BJ's Trip

This week we were in desperate need of some items at BJ's, and since I had some great coupons that were going to expire, I went ahead and did a larger order than I normally do.  Here's what I ended up with...

• 1-28 ct Pop-Secret Popcorn (for our upcoming trips): $9.99
• 1-3 ct Land O Lakes Olive Oil Butter Spread $5.99
• 1-2 pk (makes 4 meals for us) Apple Gate Farms Hot Dogs $7.99 - $2/1 MC = $5.99
• 1 LARGE bag Alexia French Fries $6.99 - $2/1 BJ's C - $1/1 MC = $3.99
• 2 pkgs Crystal Light $5.99 ea - $1.75/1 BJ's C x 2 = $4.24 ea or 2/$8.48
• 2-3 lb boxes Harvest Land Frozen Chicken Breasts (free range, no antibiotics, etc) $10.99 ea - $3/1 BJ's C x 2 = $7.99 ea or 2/$15.98 ($2.66/lb!)

Total OOP: $50.42 - $2 Refund for coupon that didn't come off = $48.42 oop!!!!

Wednesday's CVS Trip

This week there wasn't really anything that I needed in the way of ECB's deals go at CVS, but we were in need of some olive oil.  So when I got a free $3 ECB's email from CVS, I decided to go anyway.  Here's what I ended up with...

• 1 Basics Paper Towels $1.19 - $0.40 Sale - $0.79/1 CVS Coupon = FREE!
• 1 York Patty (for my husband, since he was a good sport and went shopping with me): $1.19 - $0.42 Sale = $0.77
• 1 Filippo Berio Olive Oil $7.99 - $4 Sale - $1/1 MC = $2.99

+ $0.03 Tax

- $3 ECB's 

Total OOP: $0.79!

Linked to Simply CVS!

ALDI Deals, Starting 07/24/2013

Here are a few of the awesome deals this week at ALDI...

• Fit and Active  Protein Meal Bars Chocolate Caramel or Cranberry Walnut 6-1.59 oz bars $3.99 ea
• Fit and Active Nonfat Yogurt Pineapple Upside Down Cake or Orange Cream 6 oz $0.39 ea
• Fit and Active Cracker Crisps Sour Cream and Onion or Zesty Tomato 4.4 oz $1.39 ea
• Fit and Active Rice Snacks Ranch or Chocolate 6-7 oz $1.89 ea
• Fit and Active 100 Cal Dipped Pretzels Chocolate or Yogurt 6 pk $1.79 ea
• Fit and Active 100 Cal Cheese Crackers 6 pk $1.99 ea
• Fit and Active No Sugar Added Fruit Snacks 12 ct $1.99 ea
• Fit and Active Drizzled Multigrain Crisps Chocolate or Cinnamon Streusel  3.5 oz $1.19 ea
• Fit and Active Lean Stuffed Sandwiches Meatball or Philly Cheese steak 9 oz $1.89 ea
• Fit and Active Sugar Free Syrup Blueberry, Blackberry, or Raspberry 12 oz $3.49 ea
• Fit and Active Fat Free Thousand Island or French, or Light Raspberry Vinaigrette with Walnut Flavor or Honey Mustard Dressings 16 oz $1.29 ea
• Fit and Active 14 Calorie Bars Assorted Varieties 7.5 oz $1.99 ea
• Millville 90 Calorie Low Fat Chewy Granola Bars Assorted Varieties 8.4 oz $1.69 ea
• Millville Fiber Now Chewy Bars Assorted Varieties 7 oz $1.89 ea
• Baker's Corner Gluten Free Brownie or Baking Mix 16-17 oz $2.99 ea
• Sweet Additions Sucralose or Stevia No Calorie Sweetener 9.7 oz $3.79 ea
• Kitchen Living 2 pc Kitchen Shear Set $6.99 ea
• Kitchen Living 11" Cast Aluminum Grill Pan $14.99 ea 
• Friendly Farms Milk all gallons $1.99 ea
• Aloe Vera Plants $3.99 ea
• Sweet Corn 4 pk $1.49 ea
• Beef Steak Tomatoes 2 pk $0.99 ea
• Seedless Watermelon $3.69 ea
• Green Bell Peppers 2 pk $0.89 ea
• Sweet Onions 2 lbs $0.99 ea
• Zucchini 24 oz $0.99 ea

For more information about shopping at ALDI, visit their Homepage!

Tempt My Tummy Tuesday: Potato Soup

My husband Joe can be particular when it comes to food.  There are a lot of things that he won't eat (mostly vegetables), and a lot of things that he doesn't really consider a meal, like salad, sandwiches, or soup.  However, when you make the soup, salad, or sandwich a little heartier, or pair it along with something, then he's more on board with it.  But finding a soup that is hearty, and not filled with veggies he doesn't like is hard.  So, when I stumbled upon this SIMPLE and EASY Potato Soup recipe from a friend, I thought I'd at least give it a go.  And lo and behold, he loves it!  I usually make some garlic bread or homemade french bread from the bread maker to serve alongside the soup.  Here's how it goes...

1. Melt 1 stick butter in your soup pot.
2. Saute 1 minced onion in butter until soft.
3. Add enough flour to make the butter like paste.  Then add 6 c liquid (this can be chicken broth, or a combination of bouillon, broth, and water, your choice), and bring to a boil, stirring frequently.
4. Add 5-6 diced potatoes (I like mine with lots of potato chunks), and boil until the potatoes are done.
5. Stir in diced ham (the amount is up to you, I use some leftover Easter ham from the freezer).
6. Sprinkle in some salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste.  Lastly, stir in 1 c Milk or Half and Half (either one is fine).  Continue cooking until soup is your desired thickness.
7. Serve with salad, and/or bread.  This is absolutely delicious, and the leftovers are just as good.  Enjoy!

Linked to Ginger Jamboree, the Inspiration Exchange, One Project at a Time, The Natural Living Link-up, Think-tank Thursday, Thrifty Thursday, and Homemade Mondays!

Menu Plan Monday: 07/22/2013

This week Joe and I need to go to his grandfather's house to load up for a steam show were setting up at the following week.  I also work several days this week, and Joe has to take my dad to an eye appointment.  Add to that unwinterizing the trailer, and cleaning, and packing it to go away next week, and you get one busy week.  That's okay though, I have plenty of easy meals up my sleeve, and in the freezer.  Here's what's on the menu this week...

Breakfasts: Cold Cereal, Waffles

Lunches: Leftovers, Salad, and/or Sandwiches

Dinners: (all served with salad or steamed veggies)

Sunday - Taco Salads

Monday - Crock-pot Chili

Tuesday - Working at Joe's Grandfather's, so we'll probably eat out with him  :-)

Wednesday - Crock-pot Pork with Baked Potatoes and Rolls

Thursday - Spaghetti with Garlic Bread

Friday - Homemade Pizza

Saturday - Out or Leftovers

Extras: Chocolate PB No-bake Cookies, and White Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

For more AWESOME Menu Plans, visit Org Junkie!

Weekly Spending Report: 07/14-20/2013

This week was crazy.  There was a lot of great deals to be had.  I did some major stocking up, but I also spent a good bit to get stocked up.  Next week should be better though.  Here's how the week went down...

• Sunday's Walgreen's Trip (6-24 pks H2O): $12.66 oop
• Sunday's ALDI Trip (1 pkg Spaghetti, and 2 loaves White Bread): $2.89 oop
• Sunday's Big Lots Trip: $22.85 oop (used 20% off coupon and saved $5.52)

• Sunday's Giant Trip: $29.08 oop
• Sunday's CVS Trip: $26.51 oop, Earned $3 ECB's
• Tuesday's ALDI Trip (just Quick Oats): $2.29 oop
• Tuesday's Wal-mart Trip (stomach and allergy medicines): $11.28 oop
• Friday's Walgreen's Trip (3 more 24 pks H2O): $6.33 oop
• Friday's Kohl's Trip (used a $10 coupon, got 3 Christmas presents): $1.26 oop
• Friday's Rite-Aid Trip (1 Clear Shampoo, 2 Gillette Body Washes, and 1-4 pk Cheap TP, used coupons and $2 UP+Rewards to Pay): $6.73 oop, Earned $3 UP+Rewards
• Saturday's Shopper's Trip (donuts): $2.61 oop 
• Saturday's Flea Market Trip (3 children's books, 1 ironing board holder, 3 boxes toilet scrubbers, 1 litter box): $10.50 oop

Total OOP: $134.99 - $6 Rewards Earned = Net OOP: $128.99 - ouch!  I did get stocked up on a lot of great deals though.  Hopefully next week will be better!

Linked to Couponaholic! 

Frugal Finds Friday: Shop a Flea Market

Shopping at yard sales and flea markets can save you a boat-load of money, as long as you only purchase needed items, and stay within your budget.  Joe and I frequent the flea markets in our area, and stop at year sales when they are available.  Pictured above is one of our flea market stops from June.  I was in the process of redoing our hall closet, which has no doors, so everything is visible, and baskets are so much nicer to look at then just stuff.  So, I knew what I needed, approximately, and out I went in search.  I was able to pick up 2 large baskets, one of which now holds pillow cases (1 is on my basket shelf, waiting for a use), for just $1 each.  These baskets would have cost at least $10-$12 each at Micheal's prior to a coupon, that's at least an $18 savings!  The 3 smaller flat baskets, also just $1 ea are from some fancy store, maybe Pier One; the seller told me his wife paid about $8 a piece for them --- wow!  That's a $21 savings!  Lastly we picked up beef jerky for Joe 3/$1, and Crystal Light sticks for me for $1.  I'm not sure the savings on these since we usually don't buy the jerky, and Crystal Light sometimes has sales and coupons.  But, the baskets alone saved me $39, and I have a beautiful hall closet, and utensil drawer to show for it...

 7 baskets in the Hall Closet, total cost: $4.25

Misc Utensil Drawer, 3 baskets, total cost: $3


What's your frugal find for this week?

Linked to Works for Me Wednesday!

Sunday's Giant Trip

Sunday Joe and I also stopped into Giant while we were out running errands, and I loaded up on some great deals.  I am especially loving the $2 jars of organic pasta sauce!  Here's what we ended up with...

4 pkgs Simply Smart Perdue Chicken Tenders $5.99 ea - BOGO Free Sale - $1/1 MC x 4 = 4/$7.98

8 jars Newman's Own Pasta Sauce $2.99 ea - $0.49 ea Sale - $1/2 MC x 4 = $2 ea or 8/$16

2 bottles Wisk Laundry Detergent $6.29 ea - $4.30 ea Sale - $1/1 MC x 2 = 2/$1.98

2 loaves Italian Bakery Bread $2.49 ea - $0.50/1 day-old Coupon x 2 = 2/$3.98

+ $0.24 Tax

- $0.10 Reusable Bag Credit 

- $1 off you next order Coupon

Total OOP: $65.44 - $36.60 Discounts and Coupons = $29.08 oop!!! Savings of 56%

Sunday's CVS Trip

This week at CVS Joe and I stopped in to roll our rewards, and use up 2 $3/$15 CVS Coupons we had.  We spent more than normal, but we are now stocked up on vitamins/probiotics for a while, and have sodas for our vacation next month.  Here's what we ended up with...

3-12 pks Coke Products $6.29 ea - $8.87 Sale - $1 ECB's wyb 3 = 3/$8.99

2-100 ct CVS Probiotics $9.99 ea - BOGO Free Sale = 2/$9.99

2-100 ct CVS Prenatal Vitamins $10.99 ea - BOGO Free Sale = 2/$10.99

2 Colgate 360 Toothbrushes $5.49 ea - $2.99 ea Sale - $1/1 MC x 2 - $2 ECB's wyb 2 = 2/$1

1 box Reese's Pieces $1.67 - $0.67 Sale - $0.25/1 CVS Coupon = $0.75

+ $0.78 Tax

- $3/$15 Vitamin Purchase CVS Coupon

- $3/$15 Total Purchase CVS Coupon

- $3 ECB's used to Pay

Total OOP: $26.51, Earned $3 ECB's for next week!  Savings of $50.75 or 68%!!

Linked to Simply CVS!

ALDI Deals, Starting 07/17/2013

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

• Weds. 07/17 ONLY: Backyard Grill Fresh Green Chile Cheddar Burgers 1.33 lbs $5.99 ea
• Zucchini 24 oz $0.79 ea
• Baby Lettuce 14 oz $1.59 ea
• Multicolored Peppers 20 oz 3 pk $2.19 ea
• Blueberries pint $1.29 ea
• Peaches, Nectarines, and Plums $0.39 ea
• Pineapple $1.79 ea
• Friendly Farms Milk Gallons, all varieties $1.99 ea
• Kirkwood Frozen Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts 48 oz $5.99 ea
• Peanut Delight Natural Creamy Peanut Butter 16 oz $1.89 ea
• Benton's Ice Cream Cups 24 ct 3.5 oz $0.99 ea
• Stonemill Essentials Grilling Marinade Mixes Assorted Varieties 0.87-1.25 oz $0.59 ea
• Bolthouse Farms Strawberry Banana Smoothie 32 oz $2.99 ea 
• Milky Way and Snicker's Minis Ice Cream Bars 12 oz $2.99 ea
• Easy Home Cordless Wet and Dry Hand Vacuum $39.99 ea
• Easy Home Toilet Brush (with Caddy) White or Gray $2.99 ea
• Easy Home Stacking Shelves White or Black 19.75" L x 12" W x 8.6" H $3.99 ea
• Freshine Glass Cleaner 32 oz $0.89 ea
• Anchor Hocking 6 piece Glass Storage Bowls with Lids 2, 4, and 7 c set $9.99 ea

For more information about shopping at ALDI, visit their Homepage!

Tempt Your Tummy Tuesday: Big Mac Salad

 Last week I gave you the low-down on some tasty Thousand Island dressing, so this week I'll share one of my favorite ways to use it: a Big Mac Salad!  Other than the pickles, it's all there, beef, 'special sauce,' lettuce, cheese, onions, and 'bun' (croutons).  This recipe is simple, and easy - my favorite kind of recipe!  It also takes only a handful of ingredients, and is hearty enough that even my husband considers it a meal.  That's a win in my book!  Here's what you need...

• Fried Ground Beef with Diced Onions (I fry this up ahead of time and freeze it is 1/2 lb portions, so all I have to do is nuke it when it's dinner time)
• Lettuce and Veggies of your choice (I like to add tomatoes and cucumbers to mine, Joe likes bell pepper and tomatoes in his, so it's up to you)
• Shredded Cheese (anything with cheddar is good, I've used the Mexican blend before, and it's just fine tasting)
• Croutons
• Homemade Thousand Island Dressing

1.  Fry ground beef with onions and drain (or nuke like me if you cook and freeze ahead).
2. Add lettuce and veggies to bowls, top with beef/onions, cheese, and croutons.
3. Dress salad with Thousand Island Dressing, to your liking.
4. Enjoy!

Linked to The Inspiration Exchange, The Natural Living Link-up, Make Your Own Monday, and Homemade Mondays!

Menu Plan Monday: 07/15/2013

This week is going to be a little crazy.  I'm use to working about 3 days a week, this week, I work 5.  Which is nice for my paycheck, but not for my back, which gave out on Sunday.  My dad is having some eye problems, and since I'm working, my husband Joe has to chauffeur him around for me.  And we have an event this Saturday at the museum, so like I said, crazy!  Anyway, this is what were eating this week...

Breakfasts: Cinnamon Sugar Granola Bread Toast (using up a loaf from the freezer), and Waffles

Lunches: Leftovers, Salads, and/or Salads

Dinners: (all served with Salad or Steamed Veggies)

Sunday - Rice Cooker Mac and Cheese

Monday - Spaghetti with Garlic Bread

Tuesday - Chipped Beef Gravy with Pancakes

Wednesday - LO Chipped Beef Gravy and Pancakes

Thursday - Crock-pot Pork Roast with Baked Potatoes

Friday - Grilled Hot Dogs with Garlic Potato Salad

Saturday - Pizza Pockets (probably Ham and Cheese)

Extras: No Bake Cookies

For more AWESOME Menu Plans, visit Org Junkie!

Weekly Spending Report: 07/07-13/2013

This week was a little crazy, but I got an okay paycheck, so it was time to stock the kitchen back up on some essentials.  Here's what I ended up with...

• Tuesday's Giant Trip: $28.34 oop, Earned $1 Off my Next Order Coupon
• Tuesday's Hoffman's Trip (1 gal Chocolate Almond Ice Cream): $12.50 oop
• Friday's ALDI Trip: $20.73 oop

• Friday's CVS Trip: $6.35 oop, Earned $3 ECB's (Glucose Tablets were free with CVS coupon)

• Saturday's Rite-Aid Trip (2 Newspapers): $4.24 oop
• Saturday's Dollar Tree Trip: $11.36 oop

Total OOP: $83.52 - $4 Earned Rewards = Net OOP: $79.52

Last Tuesday's Giant Trip

Tuesday Joe and I stopped into Giant after I was finished at my dentist appointment.  I had a $5 off a $30 purchase coupon, so I tried to stay as close to $30 as I could.  I am so glad to have some snack cheese and yogurt back in the house, and overall, I think we did pretty good.  Here's what we ended up with...

4 Loaves Oatnut Bread $4.29 ea - $1.79 ea Sale - $1/2 MC x 2 - $1 OYNO Coupon wyb 2 = 4/$7

1 Loaf Italian Bakery Bread $2.49 - $0.50/1 Reduced Bakery Coupon = $1.99

2-4 pks Dannon Light and Fit Yogurt $2.09 - $0.20 ea Sale = $1.89 ea or 2/$3.98

4 pkgs Cracker Barrel Cheese $3.69 - $0.70 ea Sale - $1.96 Special Deal - $1/2 MC x 2 = 4/$8

2 cans Muir Glen Organic Tomatoes $1.99 and $2.19 - $1/2 MC = 2/$3.18 ($1.59 ea)

1 Newman's Own Frozen Pizza $6.99 - $1/1 MC = $5.99

1 bunch Bananas 2.22 lbs @ $0.59/lb = $1.31

1 bottle Rubbing Alcohol on clearance $1.19

- $5/$30 Giant Coupon

- $0.10 Reusable Bag Credit

Total OOP: $28.34, Earned $1 Coupon off my next order for buying the Oatnut Bread

ALDI Deals, Starting 07/10/2013

Here's some of the awesome deals at ALDI this week...

• Weds. 07/10 ONLY: Simply Nature Fresh 85/15 Organic Grass Fed Ground Beef 1 lb $4.49 ea
• Weds. 07/10 ONLY: Simply Nature Fresh Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts Antibiotic and Cage Free $2.99/lb
• Multicolored Peppers 3 pk $2.19 ea
• Baby Carrots 16 oz $0.59 ea
• Baby Lettuce 14 oz $1.59 ea
• Cucumbers $0.29 ea
• Grape Tomatoes pint $1.29 ea
• Mushrooms 8 oz $0.79 ea
• Friendly Farms Milk 1 gal $1.99 ea
• Millville Fruit and Grain Cereal Bars Apple Cinnamon or Strawberry 10.4 oz  $1.89 ea
• Simply Nature Organic Linguine or Spaghetti 16 oz $1.19 ea
• Simply Nature Organic Pasta Sauce Marinara or Tomato Basil 25 oz $1.99 ea
• Simply Nature Extra Virgin Olive Oil 17 oz $3.99 ea
• Simply Nature String Cheese 6 oz $2.99 ea
• Simply Nature Organic Salsa Mild, Medium, or Hot 16 oz $1.99 ea
• Simply Nature Organic 100% Apple Juice 64 oz $2.49 ea
• Simply Nature Fruit Bars Chunky Strawberry, Creamy Coconut, or Creamy Banana 4 pks 10 oz $2.69 ea
• Simply Nature Organic Agave Nectar 11.75 oz $2.49 ea
• Simply Nature Rice Crisps Garden Salsa or Sweet Chili 7 oz $2.29 ea
• Simply Nature Organic Dressing Aged Balsamic Vinaigrette or Peppercorn Ranch 8 oz $1.99 ea
• Simply Nature Mild Italian Chicken Sausage 12 oz $3.49 ea
• Season's Choice Steak Fries 28 oz $1.69 ea
• Season's Choice Diced Onion Rings 16 oz $1.29 ea
• Easy Home Hanging Closet Organizer Assortment Blue, White, Purple, or Black, 6 or 10 shelf, or 24 pocket $2.99 ea
• Easy Home Pop-up Hamper Blue, White, Purple, or Black $5.99 ea
• Easy Home 8" Air Circulator Fan 3 Speed $9.99 ea 
• Huntington Home Twin or Twin XL Sheet Sets Assorted Colors $8.99 ea
• Huntington Home 2 pk Jumbo Bed Pillows 20x28" $7.99 ea
• Huntington Home Reversible Twin or Twin XL Comforter (solid/design) $14.99 ea
• 6" Sunflower Pot $2.99 ea

For more information about shopping at ALDI, visit their Homepage!

Tempt Your Tummy Tuesday: Homemade Thousand Island Dressing

 I love a good salad in the summer time.  It's just so refreshing when it is ridiculously hot outside.  Part of a good salad, is good dressing.  A dressing should accentuate the veggies and meat in the salad without overpowering them.  As you all know, I like things simple, and if I can make some thing serve more than one purpose, even better.  This thousand island dressing is just that, simple, and is great for a multitude of things.  It's good on salad, veggie dippers, and even for baked french fries and chicken tenders.  It's just so very yummy! 
Here's what you need (and probably already have)...

• 1 c Mayo (Your choice, everyone has their own favorite)
• 1/2 c Ketchup (I use Hunts, so there's no HFCS in it)
• 1/2 c Pickle Relish (I use the sugar-free vlasic so there's no HFCS in it)
• 1/2 tsp Worcestershire Sauce
• 1/2 tsp Lemon Juice

1. Mix all ingredients together.
2. Chill thoroughly before serving (I usually make it in the evening, so it will at least have chilled overnight).  Refrigerate leftovers.

See, told you it was simple, and tasty.  You should go make some, like, now ;)
 

*Next week I'll share a tasty salad that uses this dressing*

Linked to Homemade Mondays, and Tuesday Talent Show!

Menu Plan Monday: 07/08/2013

This week begins the 2 week pantry challenge.  It should be interesting, you can see my goals here.  As for the menu, we'll be using up some items from the freezers.  Here's what's going on this week...

Breakfasts: Cold Cereal, Waffles, Fresh Fruit

Lunches: Leftovers, Sandwiches, and/or Salads

Dinners: (all served with Salad, or cooking veggies)

Sunday - Taco Salads

Monday - Spaghetti, with Foccacia Bread, and Sauteed Green Beans

Tuesday - Homemade Pizza

Wednesday - Working at Joe's Grandfather's house, we'll probably go out to dinner with him :)

Thursday - Crock-pot Pork Chops, with Mushroom Gravy, and Rice

Friday -We'll be at Tuckahoe Steam Show on the Eastern Shore all day, so we might end up with a frozen pizza, or some grilled cheese

Saturday - Crock-pot Pork Chops with Mushroom Gravy, and Rice

Extras: Homemade White Chocolate Chip Cookies

For more AWESOME Menu Plans, visit Org Junkie!

Weekly Spending Report: 06/30-07/06/2013

  Well, let's just say that by looking below, you can see that we were out of a LOT of things, and it's the beginning of the month.  TP, Crystal Light, snack purchases, yeah, definitely the beginning of the month.  But, we got a LOT of great deals, and are stocked up for now.  Next week begins the pantry challenge, so that should be better on the budget.  Here's how this week went...

• Sunday's CVS Trip: $1.41 oop, Earned $1.50 ECB's
• Sunday's Dollar Tree Trip: $6.65 oop

• Sunday's Giant Trip: $51.34 oop
• Monday's Dollar Tree Trip (1 mop, since mine broke mid-cleaning): $1.06 
• Wednesday's Giant Trip (1/2 gal Milk): $4.29 oop
• Wednesday's ALDI Trip (shredded cheese, sour cream, fruit granola bars, lettuce, potatoes, chicken broth, macaroni, and salsa): $19.30 oop
• Friday's BJ's Trip (2 pouches Crystal Light, used $1.75/1 coupon): $10.23 oop
• Saturday's Dollar Tree Trip: $5.18 oop

• Saturday's Wal-mart Trip (2-12 double roll pks TP, and 1 tube Hairball Medicine): $17.82 oop
• Saturday's Rite-Aid Trip (not pictured 3-12 pks Coke Products, used $4 in coupons): $17.59 oop, Earned $2 UP+Rewards

Total OOP: $134.87 - $3.50 Earned Rewards = Net OOP: $131.37

Linked to Couponaholic! 

Frugal Find Friday: Refillable Cooking Spray

I like to spray my pan with cooking spray before I do things like fry an egg or bake french fries.  However, with the new healthier life style my husband and I are trying to live, I was very surprised when I started reading what was in cooking sprays.  A LOT of things that I couldn't pronounce, including propellants which helps with the spraying action.  Eww!  So I was on a quest to find something else that would serve the same purpose, but didn't gross me out with all of it's additives.  I was in Kohl's one day, and then I found this...

(amazon affiliate link above)
...encircled with a glowing halo of light of course :)
I LOVE IT!  I works super well.  I can easily fill it with whatever my oil preference is (I use Olive), and twist on the top, pump, and spray.  Not only is it healthy (no weird ingredients), but green (totally reusable), and uber frugal (no more buying a replacement every month or so).
In my opinion, you should definitely get one as your budget allows, it will save you a ton in the long run!

Linked to Works for Me Wednesday!

What's your frugal find for this week?

Happy 4th of July!

Happy Independence Day to everyone!

Sunday's CVS Trip

This week there wasn't really a whole lot that I wanted from CVS, but I stopped in for some vacation snacks to stash away, and to roll my ECB's.  This is what I ended up with...

4 bags Gardetto's Snack Mix $3.49 ea - $2.50 ea Sale - $0.50/2 MC x 2 = $0.74 ea or 4/$2.96

1 Puffs Tissues $1.59 - $0.40 CVS Coupon (25% off) - $1/1 MC (mailer exp 06/30) = $0.19

1 Speed Stick Deodorant $3.69 - $0.70 Sale - $1/1 MC - $1.50 ECB's = FREE!

+ $0.27 Tax

 - $4 ECB's used to Pay

Total OOP: $1.41, Earned $1.50 ECB's for next week!

Linked to Simply CVS!

ALDI Deals, Starting 07/03/2013

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

• Seedless Watermelon $3.99 ea
• Strawberries $1.29/lb
• Cantaloupe $1.49 ea
• Red Grapes $1.98/2 lbs
• Blueberries $1.29/pint
• Sweet Corn $1.59/4 pk
• Specially Selected Feta Cheese Crumbles Assorted Varieties 4 oz $1.99 ea
• Specially Selected Kalamata Olives 6 oz $2.79 ea
• Southern Grove Dried Cranberries 5 oz $1.19 ea
• Tuscan Garden Tortilla Strips Lightly Salted or Santa Fe 3.5 oz $1.19 ea
• Tuscan Garden Large Black Pitted Ripe Olives 6 oz $0.99 ea
• Little Salad Bar Spring Mix or Sweet Butter Lettuce 5-6.5 oz $1.99 ea
• Little Salad Bar Cranberry Almond Chicken Salad 16 oz $3.79 ea
• Season's Choice Whole Onion Rings 16 oz $1.99 ea 
• Fresh Gourmet Croutons Garlic Herb or Parmesan Caesar 5 oz $1.29 ea
• Nature's Nectar 100% Pineapple Juice 46 oz $2.19 ea
• Nature's Nectar Sweet or Lemonade Tea 59 oz $1.79 ea
• Nature's Nectar All Natural Lemonade or Raspberry Lemonade 59 oz $1.69 ea
• Happy Farms Pepper Jack Singles 12 oz $1.79 ea
• Kirkwood Frozen Chicken Tenderloins 40 oz/ Chicken Breasts 48 oz $5.99 ea
• Stonemill Essentials Italian Seasoning or Parsley Flakes 0.5-1.35 oz $0.99 ea
• Kitchen Living Mandoline Slicer $3.99 ea
• Kitchen Living Salad Spinner or Produce Keeper $8.99 ea
• Kitchen Living 4 piece Flexible Cutting Mats (BPA free) $2.99 ea
• Kitchen Living Vegetable Peeler, Citrus Zester, Apple Corer, Ice Cream Scoop, Melon Baller, or Garlic Press Assorted Colors $1.69 ea
• Kitchen Living Extendable Sink Colander $7.99 ea

 For more information about shopping at ALDI, visit their homepage!

Flea Market Wicker Trash Can Transformation

This is the before of the bedroom trash can.  It cost me a whole $1 at a flea market earlier this year.  I took a can of white spray paint (which I always have on hand), and two afternoons to turn it into this...

and this...

 and this is where it lives.

Pretty nice, huh?

Much better!  A super cheap, and simple transformation, but so worth the time to get every nook and cranny coated.  It will live in our bed room here until we move, one day far away.

What do you think?  What have you all been transforming lately?

Linked to One Project at a Time, the Inspiration Exchange, and Thrifty Thursday!

Sunday's Giant Trip

This week I got a 500 bonus gas points when you buy $50 coupon, so, since we are going to the eastern shore the beginning of next month, I thought it would be a good time to gas up the suburban for the trip.  We ended up with a total of $0.90 off each gallon up to 35 gallons!  We also got these good deals...

1 Flat Iron Steak $7.98

2 Cascadian Farms Crinkle French Fries $2.99 ea - $0.85/1 MC doubled to $1.70 x 2 = $1.29 ea or 2/$2.58

2 pkgs Laura's Lean Ground Beef $7.20 and $7.13 - $3.08 Sales = 2/$11.25

1 Smart Ones Meal $2.29 - $0.29 Sale = $2

6 Betty Crocker Pasta Salads (Joe's Fav) $2.49 ea - $1.49 ea Sale - $0.50/2 MC doubled to $1 x 3 = 6/$3

3 boxes Special K Bars $2.99 ea - $0.50 ea Sale - $1.47 wyb 3 - $1/3 MC = 3/$5

1 Suave Body Wash $2.50 - $1 Sale - $1/1 MC = $0.50

1 Treseme Dry Shampoo Spray $2.34 on clearance - $1/1 MC = $1.34

2-100 ct Giant Vitamin C $3.49 ea - BOGO Free Sale = 2/$3.49

2 bags Doritos $4.29 ea - BOGO Free Sale = 2/$4.29

2 bags Chex Mix $2.69 ea - BOGO Free Sale - $0.60/1 MC Doubled to $1.20 x 2 = 2/$0.29

2 pkgs Country Choice Organic Oreos $3.79 ea - $1/1 MC x 2 = $2.79 ea or 2/$5.58

2 pkgs Lance Crackers $3.09 ea - $0.59 ea Sale - $1/2 MC = 2/$4

+ $0.24

- $0.20 Reusable Bag Credit

Total OOP: $94.04 - $42.94 Savings and Coupons = $51.34 oop!!!  Savings of 46%!! + Earned 552 Gas Points!!!!

Tempt Your Tummy Tuesday: Layered Taco Dip

In honor of 4th of July, and all of the picnics people will be having to celebrate our independence day, I thought I would share a super easy dip recipe with you all.  I've been making this dip for over a decade, and it is always what I am requested to bring to family get-togethers, well, and cookies :)  Here's the low-down...

1. Layer 1 can Refried Beans into your dish.

(You can use a pie plate, a Tupperware, or a baking pan, they all work just fine)

2. Top beans with a layer of Sour Cream.

3. Top Sour Cream with a layer of Salsa.

(I like ALDI's, but I've used homemade as well.)

4. Top salsa with a layer of shredded lettuce.

5. Top Lettuce with shredded cheese (I use the Mexican blend, but cheddar is tasty too.)  I wait and add some diced onions to the top, and only on 1 half, that way people can see where they are if they don't like them.

And, it's that easy!  Serve with some tortilla chips, and you are good to go!

Linked to Make Your Own Monday, and Homemade Mondays!

Menu Plan Monday: 07/01/2013

This week will again be jam-packed, but being busy is good.  Joe and are going to my sister's to pick up a few things she doesn't want before she moves the end of the month.  Tuesday, we are going down to Joe's grandfather's house to work.  Thursday is 4th of July, and I work Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday this week.  It's gonna be a little crazy, but we'll make it work.  Here's what's on the menu for this week...

Breakfasts: Cold Cereal, Waffles, Fruit

Lunches: Leftovers, Sandwiches, and/or Salads

Dinners: (all served with veggies or salad)

Sunday - Taco Salads

Monday - Pasta with Meat Sauce, and Garlic Bread

Tuesday - Working at Pap's, probably Applebee's or Chili's with him

Wednesday - Potato Soup, with Homemade Bread

Thursday - Something from the Event at the museum

Friday - Homemade Pizza

Saturday - Grilled Hamburgers, with Baked Potato Wedges

Extras: White Chocolate Chip Cookies

For more AWESOME Menu Plans, visit Org Junkie!