Free Copies of your Resume, Faxing and Business Cards

Staples is offering 20 free copies of your resume and 40 free business cards. Stop by a Staples between now and June 13, 2009. More information here.

Remember that Office Depot is also offering 25 copies of your resume and free faxing through May 30, 2009. Click here for more information.

Another Free Card Code from Hallmark

Code at checkout is APRILCARD and to get it free- have Hallmark mail it for you and the earliest you can choose to send it is May 6th.

Free Personalized Card from Hallmark!

Through May 4, 2009, you can send a FREE 5x7 paper card from Hallmark.com for any occasion! While this promotion was specifically created for Mother's Day, you can create a card for any occasion.

Go here and create a card up to $3.49 in value (excludes cards with sound and invitation/announcement cards). Personalize your card and add photos if you'd like. Then, when you go to check out enter the code CARD4MOM. You'll get the card for free plus shipping will be free as well.

If you don't have anyone you need to send a card to in the next few weeks, you can even order a card for a future date and have it scheduled to be sent then. How cool would that be for people like me who always forget to send cards until the event is almost past?!

.31 Cents Scoops at Baskin Robbins tomorrow night!

.31 Cent Scoop Night at Baskin Robbins tomorrow only from 5-10pm. Honoring American Firefighters, the National Volunteer Fire Council and the National Junior Firefighter Program. Call you local store and see if they are participating.

You can get more details here.
Happy Cheap Ice Cream!!

Coupons at the Doctor's Office.

I'm lucky that I don't go to the Dr. very often but a daughter with double ear infections warranted a visit today. The ear infections are being caused by allergies and I got 3 prescriptions that needed to be filled. Two were cheap but one was for Nasonex and on our insurance plan it's $25. I planned to use prescription transfer coupons to get the $25 back and I did end up with $75 in free groceries.

We had to wait around to make sure the shots she got didn't cause a reaction. I'm sitting in the waiting area and a nurse opened the sample closet and there were samples for everything under the sun and many had coupons on them! Including Nasonex and I got 2 samples with $10 instant coupons on each. Plus information to join a personalized savings program at Nasonex.com that will save me $15 on each refill.

So, I was able to get the medicine for $15.00, net $10 in groceries and a way to save on refills. I forget to ask for samples and now I also know to ask if there are any coupons or rebates. Never hurts to ask- all you are risking is being told no and you're possibly gaining money!

I just checked out the Nasonex.com website and it's $15 per refill so if you have someone in your family that uses Nasonex- check it out and print your coupon.

Do a survey for Dots and get $10 off any purchase

I know nothing about this store but noticed at the new shopping center just above Windward where Kohls and Target are has one. There does appear to be several in my area.

Go here and complete the survey to get your $10 off coupon.

Happy Shopping!

Pop Tart Movie Ticket Deal

Certain boxes of Pop Tarts have a Free Star Trek movie ticket offer on them. If you read the back, the ticket is good for any movie! You just need 5 movie tickets off the back and you can send in through the end of June.

With a coupon, Pop Tarts are .70 cents at Publix through Wednesday, so you can technically get a $12 movie ticket plus the Pop Tarts for $3.50!!

Coupon 101: Don't become a Coupon Crazy!

The stores are buckling down on coupon use again! Publix has changed their policies on the penny items and how you can purchase. Two stores in my area now have the policy that you have to hit $10 AFTER coupons to get 1 penny item. The cashiers are also really checking the coupons and your number of items. I spoke with some friends in other areas and they are experiencing the same thing.

This is the result of people going overboard and ruining it for the rest of us. Clearing shelves, taking advantage of the penny item and being excessive. If you want to buy a lot of an item and you have the coupons- break the deals up and stay under the radar.

Just be wise so we can all enjoy the fun!

Concert For A Cure- this Saturday! SCB will be there!

This is going to be a fun, family event and for a great cause! Southern Coupon Belle is going to have a vendor table and if you are in the area- come have fun and say hello! I'll be available for questions and promoting the coupon seminars.

This Saturday, May 2nd from 2-6:30 at Hobgood Park Amphitheater.
6688 Bells Ferry Road
Woodstock, Georgia 30189
Bring your chairs and blankets.

Advanced tickets are $1 off by contacting karenreevespt@yahoo.com and you can visit the official site here for more information.

Tickets on Saturday are $10 per adult (13 or older) and $5 per child (2-12). There is an alternate location- Woodstock High School Auditorium if the weather acts up!

Raffle tickets are $1 each or $10 for 12 and $20 for 30.

There is a FIRST CLASS event with a Silent Auction, Vendors, Raffle for a 40" HD Flat Screen, Concessions, Inflatable and a Fire Truck. The featured concert is award winning Greg Roth and he will perform 2 concerts- Greg's Musical Madness for the kids and his band, Blankety Blank, for the adults.

This is going to be a fun afternoon for a wonderful cause and this team that's walking the 3 day has worked so hard.

Check out the website and I hope to see you there! I'll also have a table for my Uppercase Living business- a great, affordable way to decorate your home. It's addicting!
http://tracir.uppercaseliving.net

Kroger this week... slim pickings!

I didn't find much at Kroger this week but make sure you go to Coupon Mom and run the list yourself and see if there are need items for your household.

Colgate Toothpaste
Sale: $1.50 Coupon: 4/26S Final price: .50 or 78% off
Ortega 33% off their products (lowest price shown)
Sale: $1.00 (will vary) Coupon: 4/19S Final: .63 (on lowest price) or 58% off
Kroger Comfort Jumbo Diapers
Buy $15 worth and get $3 off- Sale price is $6.49
Note: Not great but we need diapers
Green, Red or Romaine Lettuce
$1.39 each or 31% off

This is a great example of the stockpiling and how I'm cherry picking at this point. I do have need items and they will add to the list but I don't need very much.

RUMOR: Walgreens + this week's deals!

I just found a post that says the Easy Saver Program at Walgreens will end officially on May 1st. They have promised to be making improvements to their current programs so maybe that means they might be making the Register Rewards better to compete with the ECB program at CVS. I sure hope so!!

Here's the hot deals this week:

Rimmel makeup--on sale Buy One, Get One Free
Buy 2 mascara and use free Rimmel mascara coupon from the April All You magazine
Get both mascaras free after coupon and sale

Campbell's soup--$0.59 after in-ad coupon
Buy 2 and use $1/2 printable coupon
$0.09 each after coupons

Scotch Packaging Paper--$0.99 after in-ad coupon
Use $0.50/1 coupon from 4/19RP
$0.50 each after coupons

Visine--on sale for $3.99
Use $3/1 coupon from 3/15RP
$0.99 after coupon

Trident Gum Value Pack--on sale 2 for $4
Use $1/1 coupon from 3/8S
$1 per value pack ($0.33 per single pack) after coupon

Flipz--on sale 2 for $3
Use $1/2 coupon from 4/5S
$1 each after coupon

Starbucks ice cream (pints)--on sale 2 for $6
Use $1/1 printable coupon
$2 each after coupon

REGISTER REWARDS DEALS

Buy 1 Bayer Breeze or Contour Blood Glucose Meter at $14.99, Get $5 Register Rewards
Use $30/1 coupon from 3/1 or 3/22RP (coupon will need to be adjusted down)
Free plus $5 in overage after the coupon and Register Rewards

Buy 1 Ecotrin Tablets (45 ct.) at $2, Earn $2 Register Rewards
Use $2.25/1 printable coupon (coupon will need to be adjusted down)*
Free plus $2 in overage after the coupon and Register Rewards

*Note: If you have trouble getting this coupon to go through at the register, you might consider buying 2 Ecotrin and then using the $2.25/1 coupon plus the $1/1 coupon from the 1/25 S. You'll pay $0.75 plus tax out of pocket and get back a $2 Register Reward.

Buy 1 Nivea Body Wash at $4.99, Get $4.99 Register Rewards
Use $1/1 coupon from 4/19RP
Free plus $1 in overage after coupon and Register Rewards

Buy 1 Rembrandt Toothpaste or Mouthwash at $5.99, Get $5.99 Register Rewards
Free after Register Rewards

Buy 1 Bayer Quick Release Crystals at $2.49, Get $2.49 Register Rewards
Free after Register Rewards

Buy 2 Listerine Mouthwash at $4 each, Get $4 Register Rewards
Use 2 $2/1 coupons from the 2/8 RP or here
Free after coupons and Register Rewards

Buy 3 Suave hair care products (on sale 3 for $5), Get $2 Register Rewards
Use $1.75/3 coupon from the 3/1RP
$0.42 each after coupon and Register Rewards

Buy 2 Got2B Hair Products at $5 each, Get $5 Register Rewards
Use (2) $2/1 printable coupon
$0.50 each after coupon and Register Rewards

Buy $10 in Participating Band-Aid and Neosporin Products, Get $4 Register Rewards

*Deal Idea*
Buy two Band-Aid products at $3 each
Buy one Neosporin product at $4
Use two $1/1 Band-Aid coupons from 3/15 or 4/26 inserts
Use $1/1 Neosporin coupon from 3/15 or 4/26 inserts or printable here
$1 each after coupons and Register Rewards

Buy 2 TreSemme Hair Products at $3.50 each, Get $2 Register Rewards
Use (2) $1/1 printable coupon
$1.50 each after coupon and Register Rewards

Buy 1 Schick Quattro for Women razor at $8.99, Get $3 Register Rewards
Use $4/1 coupon from 3/22S
$1.99 after coupon and Register Rewards

Buy 1 Scrubbing Bubbles Automatic Shower Cleaner Starter Kit at $13.99, Get $3 Register Rewards
Use $7/1 printable coupon
$3.99 after coupon and Register Rewards

Buy 2 Huggies Pull-Ups (on sale 2 for $20), Get $2 Register Rewards
Use two $3 coupons from the 4/19S
$6 per package after coupons and Register Rewards

Great deals and I'm sorry to see the Easy Saver Rebate System go but again, I'm hoping they are trying to compete more with CVS with the Register Rewards. Luckily for all of us- they compete hard with CVS- in Atlanta they are usually sitting on opposite corners from one another so I find it hard to believe that they wouldn't have a better game plan in place. CVS forces you to use ECBs in the store and your rebate check from Walgreens can be used anywhere. Making Register Rewards their new way to go would force the same thing at Walgreens. Keep your fingers crossed!

Product Review: Starkist SeaSations Fish Fillets

This is a new item and free at Publix this week- see list below.

We've bought several and I've tried two flavors so far and I've been pleased.
There are 2 fillets per box, more like a lunch portion for two or a single dinner portion if you were really hungry. They come in individual pouches that you steam in the microwave. 4 minutes for one and 7 1/2-8 minutes for two. Will depend on your microwave.

There are four flavors: Teriyaki Orange & Ginger, Savory Lemon & Herb, Thai with Basil and Mediterranean Tomato & Basil. I've tried the last 2 and they were pretty good. It's not restaurant quality but all have low calories, few carbs, sugar and fat grams. I've had one with a salad for lunch and it was the perfect amount.

Definitely worth trying for the price and like I said- makes a nice, healthy meal paired with the right sides.

SCORE!! At Publix this week!!

Here's the deals that I've already taken advantage of this week and plan to do another shop with the penny item tomorrow. Penny item is scheduled to be: water or 1/2 Gallon Deli Tea.

Yoplait Go-Gurt 8 pack BOGO
Sale: $1.40 Coupon: 4/19S Final: .70 or 75% off
General Mills Cheerios Cereal 8.9 box
Sale: $1.99 Coupon: 4/5S1 Final: 1.66 and you must buy 3 or 53% off
Pop Tarts BOGO
Sale: $1.20 Coupon: 4/5RP Final: .70 and you must buy 2 or 71% off
Shout BOGO
Sale: $1.50 Coupon: 3/29S Final: .95 or 68% off
Scrubbing Bubbles- BOGO
Sale: $1.45 Coupon: 3/29S Final: .70 or 76% off
Blue Diamond Almonds
Sale: $1.70 Coupon: 3/22S Final: .70 or 79% off
Wish Bone Dressing BOGO
Sale: $1.35 Coupon: 3/15RP Final: .73 and you must buy 2 or 73% off
Soft Scrub
Sale: $2.49 Coupon: 3/8S Final: $1.49 or 50% off
Pasta or Rice A Roni- BOGO
Sale: .75 Coupon 3/8RP Final: .50 and you must buy 4 or 66%off
HOT HOT HOT- StarKist SeaSations Fill Fillets- Frozen section
Sale: $3.00 Coupon: 3/8RP Final: FREE or 100% off
Nabisco Teddy Grahams, Ritz Bits or Kraft Mac N Cheese Crackers- BOGO
Sale: $1.50 Coupon: 3/1S Final: $1.00 or 67% off
Go to Target.com and print 2 coupons for $1 off and these would be FREE or 100% off
Florida Red Potatoes, 5lb bag
Sale: $1.97 or 51% off

GREAT deals this week on great items!!

Trust the 12 week sale cycle!

It's late... working on a project but I just ran my list for Publix since it just came up for this week. Good deals and I'll post what I think is great shortly.

I laughed when I checked off Pop Tarts on the list this week just minutes ago. It's another example of why to stock up when the deals are great and why the 12 week sale cycle works. Even I get nervous when I start running out of something and this week was no different.

We ran out of PopTarts 3 days ago and my child has asked for Pop Tarts every morning and even for snack since. I was thinking about doing a coupon search on CouponMom to buy a box or two waiting for the sales to hit. Mackenzie asked today about Pop Tarts and I said this morning- let Mom wait for the sale that is about to hit. We stocked up just about 3 months ago.

Publix has Pop Tarts BOGO and with the coupon on 4/5RP, the final price comes to .70 cents or 71% off! I will be able to stock back up and I know how many to get to wait the next sales cycle out.

I can't preach it enough and I know anyone just starting to do coupons finds it overwhelming to believe in the 12 week sale cycle. Get extra inserts, hit the rock bottom prices and stock up! Again- I get worried when I find myself running low... the sales cycle will hit when it should. I've been doing this for years, Coupon Mom got to be on Oprah because of the system and her methods... Trust in the System and you will save a ton!

Discounted Golf for your Hubby!

Or you too if you play! One way to get your significant other to join into the savings game is to find ways to save money on their favorite hobbies/obsessions.

www.lmtt.com is Last Minute Tee Times for the Atlanta area. Memberships is free and they list discounted tee times for very nice courses all over Atlanta and the surrounding areas. And I know most of these courses because my husband had his PGA card when we were married and was a teaching apprentice in the PGA.

Check it out or share with the golfer in your family if they don't already know about this site.

Coupon 101: How to work the deals at CVS

I promised this over a week ago- sorry for the delay!

CVS has a loyalty card called the Extra Care Program. You sign up for free, they track your purchases, reward you quarterly for your purchases and will email you coupons to print for $X/$X purchases... usually over the weekends. Most are $5 off $25.

CVS has monthly and weekly ECB deals on products that you can get for free or even make money when you combine a coupon with the ECB deal. ECBs print on your receipt and you can use them like cash on future purchases. Most are good for a month so just make sure you keep track of your ECBs and don't throw them away!!

The goal at CVS is to get these great products but spend as little out of pocket each week. You do that by "rolling" the ECBs you get and you do this by doing multiple transactions.

Here are my ways to work the deals at CVS:
1. Go to Coupon Mom each week, do the % upside down triangle on the deals at CVS. The free after ECBs will show first and she will match the coupons with the ECB deals each week.
2. Just like the post for the deals this week I did- I am going to try to do my best to create the smaller purchases for you and how to "roll" the ECBs each week.
3. Be considerate of the store, the cashiers and the managers. We have no trouble doing multiple transactions and most employees know what you are doing. Some might have get an attitude and we do have 1 store that we prefer not to go to. In my opinion, ECBs are ways for companies to get you to try their product and CVS to get you in their store. They want your pharmacy business and they are hoping you will spend more money buying need items.
4. There are die hard ECB fans that are in the stores first thing Sunday morning and some even hit the 24 hours stores right at midnight on Saturday. If you are having trouble finding an item- find out when their trucks come and ask if they have more items in the back. Ask a manager and they are usually more than happy to help you out.
5. Have your game plan ready- work out your scenarios and be ready to have a Plan B if you can't find an item. Living in Atlanta (and I realize that some of you live in more rural, smaller areas) there is a CVS pretty much on every street corner. I can get to at least 8 in about a 10 mile radius of our house. Mike passes so many on his different ways home from work that he can try other locations if we can't find the items we want each week. Keep your lists, coupons and ECBs in the car so if you are taking your children to sports, lessons etc.- you can stop and work your lists.
6. Do your first transaction and tell the cashier that you want to break your purchases up. If they are busy or helping people with photos- ask them if they want to call a manager or another employee up to help you on a different register. And if you start doing your transactions and a line forms- get out of line and go to the end of the line. The deals are worth the few minutes, the cashiers will appreciate and so will the people behind you! Be nice about it! There are very few people that understand what you are doing and they consider you one of "those people." And people throwing invisible daggers in your back will only stress you out and you might mess up your game plan. I've had that happen before.
7. Don't clear the shelves and if you do- tell a manager or employee. CVS sends mystery shoppers into stores and managers get in big trouble in their districts if there are items missing on the shelves. Getting in trouble makes some managers hate the ECB program. Be courteous
and if you frequent that store- the managers will remember you.
8. If you are new to rolling ECBs at CVS- take baby steps and just start out slow. Email me for help- I will walk you through the process and how to start. It's fun to try to products and get great products for free or very little out of pocket. And if you are at the store and have your gameplan but can't find the products- get a manager to help you! When a product is free or close to it- the store may move it to an end cap or feature it in another area. Tell the manager what you are trying to do and if you are nice about- I can assure you they will help you out.


CVS is really easy to master and I know it sounds confusing at first. It's really fun and I know you will have fun with it too!

And again- email me!! I love helping people and I am so proud of my friends that I meet through the blog and we talk all the time about the deals.

Deals at CVS this week!

Here's what I found for CVS this week and how to start getting some Extra Care Bucks to roll.

Edge Infused Comfort or Hydrate Shave Gel Limit 1
Free after receiving a $2.89 ECB or 100% off

Crest Pro Health Rinse Limit 2
.88 cents after $2.00 ECB or 69% off

Crest Pro Health Toothpaste
.13 cents after coupon from 4/5PG and $2.00 ECB or 95% off Limit 2

Rimmel Lip- BOGO and you need two coupons. Prices vary from $2.99 to $7.99
Sale: $1.50 Coupon: 4/19RP Final Price is 50% off based on which products you choose.

Here's how you roll this deal:
#1 Transaction:
Buy 1 of the Crest Pro Health Rinse
Pay $2.88+ tax and get $2 ECB back
#2 Transaction:
Buy another Pro Health Rinse
Pay .88 plus tax and get another $2 ECB back
#3 Transaction:
Buy the Edge Shave Gel
Use one $2 ECB and pay .89 cents plus tax and get $2.89 ECB back
#4 Transaction:
Buy the 2 Pro Health toothpastes
Use (1) $2 ECB from the Crest Rinse and the $2.89 ECB from the Edge Shave Gel
Pay .87 cents plus tax and get $4.00 ECB back
#5 Transaction:
Buy the Rimmel Lip Deal- spend just over $4.00 on the various lip products or get what you want up to $7.99
Use 2 coupons and pay the difference.

So, for just under $5.00 out of pocket- you get all these great products. And if you don't want the Rimmel or other products- save your ECBs for another deal.

This is a great, little out of pocket way this week to start collecting and rolling Extra Care Bucks.

Smokin' HOT at Kroger this week!

Here's the deals I've already scored at Kroger this week. We spent $23.00, saved $72.76 and just used coupons from the paper.

If you have the coupons for the Barilla Pastas- both are a .20 cent money maker.

Capri Sun Drinks 10 pack
(coupon is for Sunrise if included- I haven't done this one yet)
Sale: $1.79 Coupon: 4/19S Final Price: .79 or 68 % off
Angel Soft 4 pack Toilet Paper
Sale: $1.00 Coupon: 4/19RP Final Price: FREE or 100% off
McCormick Grill Mates Seasonings
Sale: $1.00 Coupon: 4/19RP Final Price: FREE or 100% off
Betty Crocker Frosting (unadvertised deal)
Sale: $1.69 Coupon: 4/5S1 Final Price: .69 or 66% off
Barilla Whole Grain Pasta (unadvertised deal)
Sale: .75 Coupon: 3/29S Final Price: FREE and .20 cent money maker
Barilla Piccolini Pasta (unadvertised deal)
Sale: .75 Coupon: 3/29S Final Price: FREE and a money maker
Pillsbury Brownie Mix
Sale: $1.00 Coupon: 3/29S Final Price: .30 or 85% off
Rice A Roni or Pasta Roni
Sale: $1.00 Coupon: 3/8RP Final Price: .75 or 63% off
Melitta Coffee Filters (unadvertised deal)
Sale: $1.09 Coupon: 3/1RP Final Price: .09 or 94% off
Fuze Drinks
Sale: $1.00 Coupon: 1/4S1 Final Price: .50 or 75% off
Sunburst Laundry Detergent
Sale: $1.88 or 37% off
Pepperidge Farms Goldfish Crackers
Sale: $1.00 or 50% off
Kool Aid Bursts Drinks 6 pack
Sale: $1.00 or 50% off
Softsoap Elements Liquid Soap
Sale: $1.00 or 50% off

Freebies from Southern Coupon Belle

Finally- I've had time to post some GREAT freebies!
Go to the new blog on the right under favorites.

Magazines, free breakfast, free Gillette Fusion razors etc.

Check it out!

70% Off Restaurant.com

Use the code FEAST and get a $25 Gift Certificate for $3!
Good through Monday, April 20th!

Sample Kroger Shops this week

Hey- here are 2 Kroger shops from this week and what I got. I only had coupons- no prescription gift cards, extra Kroger coupons etc. I want you to see that these shops included need items like meat, produce and diapers.

Shop 1: Total Spent: $23.59 Saved: $46.78 or 68% saved
Red Leaf Lettuce
Green Leaf Lettuce
1.62 lbs of red grapes
Bananas
Ham for lunches this week
2 packages of skinless, boneless chicken thighs (Manager's Specials for $2.89 and $2.93 each)
3 Packages of Quaker Quakes
14 Suave Shampoos and Conditioners
7 Brut Deodorants
8 Suave Deodorants
7 SoftSoap hand soaps
Total items: 46 or just .51 cents an item

Shop 2: Total Spent: $20.94 Saved: $27.05 or 58% off
Smoked ham lunch meat
Flat Iron Steak
Kroger diapers
15 Suave Shampoos and Conditioners
6 Suave Deodorant
7 SoftSoaps
Total items: 31 or just about .67 cents an item

Now- this is an extreme shop with all the Suave and no my husband doesn't wear Brut (if you do- no offense!) The Suave, Brut and Softsoap are part of my Great Disney Stockpile Experiment which I will explain next. I'll take out the Softsoap I need for my stockpile.

$1 Printable for ALL detergent

Click here and register for the Celebrity Apprentice Sweepstakes and a $1 printable coupon for ALL.

And always click you want to receive other offers so you'll get more coupons offers like this one for other products.

Check your local "little" papers for a great coupon!

EDIT- someone just reported that the Johns Creek Herald has a coupon for free eggs with a $10 purchase at Kroger so the coupons may vary by publication.

I have a free paper around here called the Alpharetta-Roswell Revue. It's a local publication but I believe the company publishes other areas as well. Look for it because someone told me that there is a $2/$10 coupon for produce at Kroger.

So be on the lookout- there's no expiration date so grab a couple but don't get greedy so others can take advantage of this coupon as well!

Getting your Significant Other excited about coupons!

I didn't have the opportunity to finish with a couple of points I had left last night but I think they are important so I wanted to share on the blog.

1. Again, thank you for attending!
2. Don't feel overwhelmed- take baby steps and take the processes in at a slow pace. I have readers and friends that went from using 1-2 coupons a week to saving 60% in just a few weeks. And I have readers that all they do is the use the CouponMOM coupon database to just search for items they need and don't mess with the lists at first or at all. And they saved $30+ on their next grocery shop! Very few people master all the tricks of the trade right out of the gate. Try a trick or two, when you feel comfortable with those- add a couple more and create your own system that works for you.
3. I was inspired by all the couples at the seminar. My husband is definitely on board with helping with the lists, grocery stores and drugstores. Your significant other will join the fun with you when they see how much more you are buying each week and how little you are spending. And encourage your SO to help out- like I said last night, with 2 small kids- you can't go to the store and stick to your list without feeling like pulling your hair out! Even if it's just to watch the kids or be at home after they go to bed so you can go to the store with a clear head, organized and lists+ coupons ready to go. And I know your husband will be so excited about all the different types of foods you are bringing home for your family to try!

And remember- I'm here to help. I highlight the deals that I like and where to find the coupons. Email me and let me know how I can help you get started in the game!

Thanks Hamilton Mill UMC MOPs!

Just got back from speaking at the Super Savers Seminars and I would like to thank everyone that came out tonight. I know a lot of information was thrown out to you in a short amount of time but if you go to my Coupon 101 label and start reading from the very first post- I promise this is easy to learn and master quickly.

If you didn't get to ask a question or realized as you were processing everything on the way home, you did have a question- email me at southerncouponbelle@comcast.net
I will answer any and all questions you have! I'm committed to helping you so don't feel like questions will bother me or be too simple or silly. You're also helping me see how to improve my presentation and explain the processes better.

Here are some answers to some of the questions I had tonight:

Someone asked about lowering your bills. The website I was talking about is www.lowermybills.com and start there for insurance quotes etc.

The website to order coupons is:
http://www.couponsthingsbydede.com/

Click here to go to the Coupon 101 section I mentioned tonight.
Coupon101
Scroll down for the very first post and then click on Newer Posts at the bottom after you read that page.

SMOKING HOT! Free children's glasses at Target Optical Departments

UPDATE: Apparently this deal is only good in Kansas only but I'll leave it since I have readers in Kansas. Again, call your Target if you are in Kansas and see if the deal is still good.


Thanks Holly for the heads up on this great deal! You need to research your Target, find out if they have an Optical Department and if they are participating. I have not verified this promotion since I don't have a child who wears glasses. But I definitely think it's worth checking out in your area.

In case you have a child or know of someone who does (ages 12 and under), they can get a FREE pair of eyeglasses from Target. Target is doing a special promotion for their Optical Services. It could end any time but will definitely not end before April 29th.

Children 12 and under can get a free pair of glasses. They need to bring in a valid prescription for glasses from their doctor and Target will let the child pick from about 40 different frames. They will place their best lenses in the frames which are non-glare and scratch resistant and normally sell for $200.00.
There are no income guidelines. Any child 12 or under is eligible.

Again- do your research and find out if your Target is participating.

Coupon 101: Q&A

Hey! And welcome all new readers since the mention on 11Alive. If you are new- go to Couponing 101, go to the very first posts and I will walk you through these processes. The feedback I get from readers from all over the country is how simple the site is, my explanations are easy to read and follow; and I show how I use these great systems plus my own tricks of the trade. I also do product reviews on new products or those that you can get at heavy discount or free.

I got some great questions today from several on southerncouponbelle@comcast.net!
Instead of answering directly- I want to share my answers with everyone.

1. Why are the printable coupons pretty much the same ones over and over?
My answer and I will admit- I'm not an expert on internet printables. I weigh the cost of the ink, the constantly changing policies on them and I normally just rely on other sources. However- IPs do refresh the first of each month on all the sites and yes- they tend to be the same each month. These companies are paying to be on these sites so you are going to typically see the same coupons on the "official" printable coupon sites each month. But it's still worth putting on your Coupon 1st of the Month To Do list to go check these sites out and see what's being offered.

Here's how to possibly get around it. I have mentioned before that if you pay attention to commercials and ads- most companies are offering coupons on their websites for their products.
If there is an item you like, want to try or need- go to the companies' website. If there aren't printables available, sign up for email newsletters, clubs etc and see what is sent to your email. Of course- I will tell you when I find these deals. Another way- call the company. Tell them you LOVE their product, want to tell your friends about it, TRY their product and see if they have coupons available. Most companies do and with the economy plus couponing popular again- I'm sure you could score some great coupons!

2. What is the limit for printing coupons online?
Typically, it is 1 or 2 per IP address. Some sites will allow more but unfortunately there are some people in the coupon game that just can't help themselves and abuse the systems. These people are one of the reasons that IPs can be hard to use and companies are really setting tight policies on them. Great example was the Cottonelle Toilet Paper for free. Print your coupons and if it's a product you need or really like- see if a friend or family member will print more for you. But be fair to everyone- don't use them all at once because the stores get freaky and just remember that if everyone buys 20 packs of TP for FREE a month- the coupon and in this case- the product will go away and everyone loses out.

3. Stacking Coupons- If I have a coupon from SmartSource and one from Red Plum or P&G for the same product... can I use them together on one item? I heard you can use a store coupon with a manufacturer coupon but I don't come across that very often.
Great question and honest... after almost 9 years doing this- you aren't going to find coupons for the same product in multiple inserts. I know it seems like you can but certain companies only advertise in certain inserts. Proctor & Gamble will normally only advertise their products in their monthly insert. What you may find is coupons in different dated inserts but in the same sections like SmartSource or RedPlum. That's the tip I just gave on the blog about using the CouponMOM coupon database to see if you have multiple coupons from different weeks for the same product that hasn't expired yet.

Where can you stack?
Usually the drugstores like Walgreens and combine their rebate book coupons, in-ad coupons plus the manufacturer coupons. Or using the e-load coupons from Kroger or your chain loyalty card and paper coupons.

Keep reading the blog and I will always show you how to stack and get the best deal, staying "legal" and how to save the most each week! Trust me, my simple blog, email for help and I'm here 24/7. Thanks for all the great emails, questions and letting me know how great you are doing!

Fred's Hometown Discount Stores- A GREAT TIP!

Thanks Stacey for your email and telling me about Fred's Discount Stores. I don't have one near me but visit their site and see if you have one nearby.

www.fredsinc.com

Fred's accepts coupons and on Saturdays will double up to 70 cents!

She also reminded me that Dollar General accepts coupons. They do not double.

Feel free to email me and tell me about deals and stores you have so I can share with others. Thousands are reading each week from all over the country so you may have a great deal source that I don't have here in Atlanta!

SCB on VALues blog on 11ALIVE.com!

Southern Coupon Belle was written about by Valerie Hoff and her VALues Blog for 11Alive!
I'm speaking at Hamilton Mill UMC on Wednesday and they have almost sold out! It's not too late if you would like for me to send you some information.

Thanks Valerie!
www.11Alive.com
Scroll down and Click on VALues!

Extended Sale and Penny Item Tomorrow at Publix

It's a lucky week for couponers at Publix. Since they were closed Easter Sunday, the penny item is available again on Tuesday this week. The new sale is valid now through April 22.

Here's some great deals this week!

Betty Crocker Potatoes BOGO
Sale: .80 Coupon: 4/5S1 Final Price: .30 or 81% off
Fantastik Cleaner
Sale: $2.00 Coupon: 3/29S Final Price: $1.00 or 64% off
Crystal Light Drink, On the Go, Iced Tea etc. BOGO
Sale: $2.00 Coupon: 3/29S Must Buy 3 Final Price: $1.33 each or 67% off
Pam Cooking Spray BOGO
Sale: $1.70 Coupon: 3/29S Final Price: $1.00 or 71% off
Lysol Disinfectant Bathroom Cleaner BOGO
Sale: $1.85 Coupon: 3/15S Final Price: .85 or 77% off
Dial Liquid Hand Soap
Sale: $1.25 Coupon: 3/8S Final Price: .55 or 65% off
Kens Steakhouse Marinades BOGO
Sale: $1.40 Coupon: 3/8S Final Price: .40 or 86% off
Quaker Chewy Granola Bars BOGO
Sale: $1.50 Coupon: 3/8RP Must buy 2 Final Price: $1.13 or 62% off
Kraft BBQ Sauce BOGO
Sale Price: .80 or 50% off
Motts 100% Apple Juice, Mots for Tots, Kids Health or Plus Light BOGO
Sale Price: $1.48 or 50% off
Juicy Juice 100% Premium Juice BOGO
Sale Price: $1.75 or 50% off

If you bought all these items you would spend $14.38 and save 65%!!

Hot Deals this week!

Here's what I found interesting this week:

Kroger:

Red Seedless Grapes
.99/lb. or 50% off
Suave Shampoo or Conditioner
Sale Price: .88 Coupon: 3/1RP Final Price: .30 or 70% off
Rice or Pasta Roni
Sale: $1.00 Coupon: 3/8RP Final Price: .75 or 56% off
Quaker Rice Cakes
Sale: $1.00 Coupon: 3/29RP Final Price: FREE
Suave Deodorant
Sale: $1.00 Coupon: 3/29RP Final Price: FREE
Softsoap Liquid Soap
Sale: $1.00 Coupon: 3/29S Final Price: .30 or 84% off
Brut Deodorant
Sale: $1.00 Coupon: 4/5S1 Final Price: .45 or 77% off
Green Giant Vegetables
Sale: $1.00 Coupon: 4/5S1 Final Price: .50 or 76% off

And remember is an item is FREE or close to it- if you don't use this item...buy it and donate!

CVS:

Colgate Enamel Protect, Sensitive or Whitening Toothpaste
Free after $3.99 ECB and use coupon from 3/29S to make money!
Softsoap Body Scrub
Free after $4.99 ECB and use coupon from 3/29S to make money!
Colgate Plus or Wave toothbrush BOGOF- must buy 2 and you use 2 coupons
Sale price: $1.00 Coupon: 3/29S Final: .25 or 87% off
Colgate Total Cavity, Baking Soda or Peroxide toothpaste BOGO- must buy 2 and use 2 coupons
Sale price: $1.00 Coupon: 3/29S Final: .25 or 87% off

Ways to save when you travel

Like I posted earlier- we took a 2 day trip for Spring Break. I have some tips for saving on a trip even when it's just overnight.

1. Research your hotel and read reviews.
Go to all the sites like Expedia and find the rates being offered. Read the reviews. A hotel with a rate of $29.99 might sound wonderful but if people are complaining about roaches and dirty bathrooms- you might want to skip it. Or it can go the other way. I found a Days Inn that was $65 total including tax if I prepaid. I read the reviews and they were wonderful! The hotel was behind a shopping mall and hard to find but people said it was super clean and comfortable to stay in. It was and we were pleased.
2. You found the room- now find the best price.
Try all the discount websites but most hotel companies now guarantee to beat the lowest price available. Many do so by asking for pre-payment with no refund or credit. You can get around it- I pre-paid for our room about 5 minutes before we left the house. I didn't want to pay for the room too far ahead of time, afraid Murphy's Law would kick in and someone would get sick or Mike's work would blow up. Also- make sure you sign up for a rewards program for the hotel you are staying at so you can get your points towards future stays.
3. Research the area and where you are going.
Check out the local Chamber of Commerce sites, sites like OpenTable.com or simply just google the area. Open Table has reviews for restaurants in certain areas so again- you can find out what people think, what is really good or bad on the menu, etc. I read about a "hip" West LA restaurant called Ketchup in Southern Living that is also in Huntsville. I researched and found the menu so I knew the prices, if they were kid friendly, the dress, and what people raved about or disliked. We went Tuesday night and the food was great- going off the reviews we knew what to order and we had a great time. I was reading a gossip magazine in the hair salon today and there was mention of Leonardo Dicaprio eating at LA's Ketchup this past week!
4. Research the attractions you are planning to visit plus your travel route.
Again, google the attractions and see if they offer Web specials or coupons online. Find out the hours, the ticket prices and what age child you have to start paying for. Our original plan was to go straight to Huntsville and go to the Space Museum that afternoon. By checking the website out- the cute 3-D movie is only shown at 11am each day. That changed our plans big time! I then did a Yahoo Map to see how we needed to go and realized the most direct way to Huntsville was through Chattanooga. That's when we added Ruby Falls to our plans. Planning ahead and trying to schedule your events keeps your trip in control and at least start the trip with as little drama as possible.
5. Stop at Welcome Centers and the lobby of your hotel.
Why? They are full of coupons and discounts for hotels, restaurants and attractions. We stopped as soon as we hit Tennessee and got a coupon for Ruby Falls. Your hotel will have discounts as well. And... if you don't find a coupon- ask the Welcome Center people. I didn't see a coupon for Ruby Falls but I asked and the guy working gave me a flyer with coupons for various restaurants and attractions in the area. Tell the Welcome Center folks where you are going, is your route the best and what they recommend to do in the area.
6. Check a restaurant out before you get everyone out of the car.
Again, you ask why? Perfect example on our recent trip. At the base of the mountain to go to Ruby Falls was a restaurant called Mt. Vernon. There was a coupon for a free appetizer. Lots of cars so we decided to check it out. Mike ran in before we got the girls out of the car and our friends got out and checked the menu. It was very upscale, sandwiches started at $12, no kids and patrons were obviously local and very professionally dressed. It would have been a nightmare to walk in as a party of 8 including 4 kids, dressed for travel and spend more for lunch than we did for dinner.
7. If you find a restaurant like we did- find out the group it falls under and sign up.
Ketchup is a restaurant in the Dolce Group which I found out during my research. I signed up for their email club and immediately got a coupon to print for free dessert for signing up. The four children split a wonderful Strawberry Shortcake Tower and thought it was just the neatest!
8. Take snacks, breakfast items and drinks with you.
Obviously in the car on the road but plan ahead for your stay and the attractions. Bring a 24 pack of water and put in your hotel frig. Freeze a couple and put in an insulated bag like one of those freebie diaper bags you get at the hospital. Don't spend $3 a pop on water when you can bring your own. Same thing on snack items- pack them and take advantage of the huge deals you get at home. And if your hotel doesn't offer free breakfast- take items like Pop Tarts, Breakfast bars, instant oatmeal packs and instant grits. You'll most likely have a coffee pot- run a pot of water through it to clean it (I actually bring vinegar with me) when you get there so the next morning you can run a pot of hot water and make breakfast while the family gets ready to go. Bring disposable bowls and spoons so you've not only saved money on breakfast but time skipping a place to have breakfast so you can go straight to the attractions.
9. Set the rules on souvenirs before you go.
Tell your children ahead of time how much money they can spend and that they need to choose wisely. For example, we told the girls they had a certain amount and they could spend when they wanted. Of course, immediately they saw stuff and it was the usual tourist junk at our first stop. I explained they could buy it but that was it or they could wait and choose at the Space Museum. OR they could take that money and buy a DVD or Wii game that they would enjoy much longer than a plastic souvenir that they would forget about by the time we got home. The girls chose the latter and got a Wii game tonight.
10. Plan ahead and think ahead.
I can't stand it when I forget something whether it's a week long trip or overnight. Think about what can happen and make it a goal to not pay full price for something last minute. When you pack- think about an "accident" and pack an extra outfit for your kids. Know that a child can get sick or hurt in a second- pack Tylenol, cold medicine, bandaids etc. I actually keep an emergency backpack in the car at all times with 1 outfit for each girl, basic first aid and over the counter medicine, a nail file plus clippers, sunscreen, bug spray, cold packs, etc. It only comes in handy every so often but it did on our trip this week. Mackenzie had a hangnail and all Mike had to do was go the car and get the clippers.

Trips can be fun but so stressful at the same time. Being smart and researching your agenda can make an adventure even more fun and you are still saving money. And it's nice when we were at Ketchup and I could tell our great friends what to order, what to avoid and we had a great dinner.

Again, saving money takes time and effort but when you have a blast and create great memories for your family and didn't spend a ton- it's always worth it.

My new favorite store!!

We are on Spring Break and we took a mini trip to Ruby Falls and the Huntsville Space Museum. On the way from Chattanooga to Huntsville... I saw the billboard for Unclaimed Baggage. I was on Cloud Nine because I knew exactly what it was.

Unclaimed Baggage is located in Scottsboro, AL and been in business since 1970. What is it? This store buys all the stuff that people leave and never claim from airports all over the country. They then sell at high discount prices! This place is so big that they have 2 buildings and you can only imagine what they sell. Jewelry, clothes, luggage of course, books, toys, electronics, DVDs etc. etc.

It really is eye opening what people leave at the airport. High end watches, engagement rings, there was a kayak, sporting goods, Boise headphones, video games, IPODs and on and on. And then crazy stuff like souvenirs, vitamins, make up etc. It was cool and bizarre at the same time. There were even large flat screens- not sure how that happened or if they also buy from closeouts. I find it funny that someone would leave a 52 flat screen TV at the airport and not realize it!

You might think it sounds gross but everything was clean and in good or even brand new shape. There were probably 50+ brand new high end designer purses including Coach and Michael Kors. You still need to know your prices but the prices were great! Prices are based on the condition of the item.

I didn't get to look as much as I wanted- we had another family with us and I didn't want to ask them to stick around too long. However, I will be going back soon!

My score- a Maclaren Volo umbrella stroller in almost brand new condition. It retails for $135 and I got it for....$10!!!! It had Disney stickers all over it and it honestly looks like someone used it at Disney for a week then left it. The stickers were the in park stickers passsed out so that's why I have that theory. I used alcohol and got rid of all the stickers in no time. It's missing the rain shield but I checked online with the company and I can get a replacement for $30. We are 99% out of the stroller stage and selling our Sit and Stroll but I worried about having nothing. This is a bigger umbrella stroller that my oldest can sit it and still easy to push her. We like it also because we are tall and felt like we always had to bend over to push a normal umbrella stroller.

Check out their website: www.unclaimedbaggage.com

Free Milk at Kroger this week!

Buy 3 participating General Mill products and get a FREE gallon of Kroger Milk.

We like the Nature Valley Granola Bars so if I buy 3 for $1.49 each using the coupon from 3/8S then I'll score the milk. There are other items and a P&G deal at Kroger as well. Just go to Coupon Mom and generate your Kroger list to see what qualifies.

There are some great deals at Kroger for Easter this week. Go check out the list and see how you can save big on your Easter dinner next week!

CVS Deals this week!

Great deals with Extra Care Bucks and using coupons. Read tomorrow CVS 101 that I plan to post.

Skintimate Dry Skin or Extra Gentle Moisturizing Cream Shave
FREE after $3.49 ECB
Oval or Rectangle Bamboo Baskets
FREE after $1.99 ECB on Sunday and Monday only. Limit 2
CVS Batteries- BOGO Prices Vary
Nivea A Kiss of Moisture
BOGO and assumes you have 2 coupons since you have to buy 2.
Sale Price: Starts at $2.99 Coupon: 2/8RP Final Price: .50 or 83% off
Glade Air Freshener 9 oz.
Sale Price: .99 Coupon: 3/15S Final Price: .50 or 67% off
Schick Intuition Plus Razor Kit or 3 count cartridges
BOGO assumes you have 2 coupons
Sale Price: $5.00 Coupon: 3/22S Final Price: $1.00 or 90% off
Colgate MaxWhite or MaxFresh Toothpaste
Final Price with coupon on 3/29S is .24 after $2.00 ECB
Pringles Potato Crisps (excludes Fat Free and Select)
Sale Price: .88 Coupon: 4/5PG Must buy 2 Final Price: .38 or 79% off

If you bought all these items, you would pay $13.99 out of pocket if you don't have ECBs to roll and save 76%. You would also have almost $7.00 in ECBS to use on your next shop. Or put these deals into smaller shops and roll your ECBs this week. Like I said- CVS 101 is tomorrow. I'll show you how to roll ECBs!

Target Deals this week!

Again, I'm generating my lists from Coupon Mom and these are the items I think are rock bottom prices in the sale cycle. You may need other items but I like these deals and the other ones that I am posting tonight.

Gillette Shave Gel
Sale Price: $1.89 Coupon: 4/5PG Final Price: .89 or 68% off
Note: We have been waiting forever for a shave gel deal
Gillette Fusion Power Razor
Sale Price: $5.49 Coupon: 4/5PG Final Price: $3.49 or 56% off

Buy both these deals and receive a $5 Target Gift Card. Fusion Razors can be free at CVS with the ECB program but combining the 2 to get the $5 GC- you are making a little bit of overage. And it's not like you have absolutely nothing else to buy at Target again so that GC will come to good use on your next shop!

Glaceau Vitamin Water 10
Sale Price: $1.00 Coupon: 4/5S1 Final Price: FREE or 100% off

Secret Clinical Strength Deodorant
Sale Price: $7.49 Coupon: 3/1PG Final Price: $6.49 or 28% off
Combine with the Fusion Razor to get the $5 Target Gift Card to really save!

Rite Aid Hot Deals

Deals at Rite Aid this week:

Blink Tears: Free after $7.99 online rebate
Coupon: 3/1RP will earn you $2.00
Trident Xtra Care Gum 14 pieces
Sale Price: .99 Coupon: 3/8S Final Price: .24 or 83% off
Air Wick Ultra Freshmatic Kit
Sale Price: $6.00 Coupon: 4/5S1 Final Price: $2.00 or 83% off
John Frieda Products- $10 rebate if you buy 4 and have 4 coupons
Coupon: 4/5S2 Final Price: .50 each or 90%

Will require some money out of pocket but you get these great products, make some money and after you get your rebate- final cost if $2.24 or 94% off

Check CouponMom like I just did to find these deals fast!

Hot Deals at Walmart this week!

Here's what I found to be good deals at Walmart:

Quaker Rice Cakes
Sale: $1.36 Coupon: 3/29RP Final Price: .36 or 74% off
Halls Cough Drops
Sale: $1.18 Coupon: 3/29S Final Price: FREE or 100% off
Oust Surface and Air Sanitizer
Sale: $2.50 Coupon: 3/29S Final Price: .50 or 80% off

Final Price for 3 items: .86!

Remember that Walmart prices can vary from Coupon Mom's list so be prepared that there may a slight price difference.

Took me just a minute to scan the Walmart list this week at Coupon Mom!

Disney- Free Tickets for Military and cheap tickets for their families

I knew Disney had a program that active military could visit the parks for free but I just learned that retired service men and women can get a 5 Day Ticket for FREE!!

Click here to get more information.

It's a one park per day ticket but can be upgraded to a Park Hopper for just $25! You can also purchase up to 5 additional 5 Day Tickets for $99 each and they can be upgraded for $25. There is also discounts on hotel rooms.

What a great deal and a nice Thanks from Disney for your service to our country!

What's looks like a deal at Publix this week!

Here's what I'm stocking up on this week:

Duncan Hines Brownie Mix BOGO Sale: $1.30 2/1S Final Price: .60 or 77% off

Totinos Party Pizza Sale: $1.25 2/8GM Final Price: .55 or 73% off

Chex Mix BOGO Sale: $1.28 2/22S Final Price: .28 or 89% off

Lipton Family Size Tea Bags Sale: $1.33 3/15RP Final Price: .83 or 69% off

HOT!! Kraft or Seven Seas Dressing BOGO Sale Price: $1.50 3/29S Final Price: FREE!!

Duncan Hines Cake Mix BOGO Sale Price: $.83 3/29S Final Price: .13 or 92% off

Breakstone Sour Cream Sale Price: .99 3/29S Final Price: .44 or 74% off

If you bought these items you would spend $3.66 and save 80%!

Combine with the Penny Item and you would save even more!

Free Rite Aid RX Prescription Card

Click here and sign up for the Free Rite Aid RX Prescription Card.

Card members get their next qualifying 30 day generic prescription free!

It's April 1st- your To Do list

It's the first of the month so you have some things to do:

1. Download new ecoupons onto your Kroger Card.
2. Get your top Restaurant.com gift certificates that go quick.
3. Check the printable coupon sites to see what has reloaded.

Hamilton Mill UMC MOPS Super Saving Seminar

If you are interested in attending, please email me so I can send you the reservation information ASAP. There are less than 100 seats left so you need to hurry!

It's 2 weeks from tonight on April 15th from 6:30 to 8:15.

Jessica Northcutt, a MOPS member, will be speaking about ways to cut your household budget and where to shop, eat and play. I'll talk about saving money at the grocery store and drugstores.

Childcare is provided and it's just a $10 donation to the MOPS group to reserve a seat.

Hurry! I'd love to meet you!

Free McCormick Grill Mates

This week, McCormick Grill Mates are 10/$10. There is a coupon in the 3/15 Red Plum insert for $1.00 off making these free!!

Perfect time to stock up for grilling when the weather finally warms up!

If your Kroger affiliate has the 10/$10 program- you may want to see if you can take advantage of this deal too!