Still at the beach and I mentioned earlier that I bought Restaurant.com gift certificates for 2 local restaurants here in Destin. One was the infamous Gravel Road restaurant that has been featured in Southern Living for their grouper sandwich. The other was a place called Bluz and we tried it tonight.
We normally have one night that we take a break from seafood and do something different. Bluz was excellent and we really enjoyed our meal. Everyone ate every last bite of what we ordered and the girls ate like linebackers.
The bonus I mentioned? I would have never noticed this restaurant or even thought about trying it if it wasn't for Restaurant.com. I love the feature that you can view the menu before you buy and we had a large, wonderful Bluz Special pizza and a hot antipasto platter for 2 for a grand total of $23.00 including a 20% tip! The platter had good sized appetizer portions of calamari, homemade ravioli, cheese dipping sauce, marinara sauce, spinach-artichoke-crap Florentine Dip, Bruschetta, chicken tenders and their bread. We all ate like kings and it was so good. The Bluz Special Pizza was pepperoni, sausage, green pepper, onion and fresh basil. Awesome!!
Bluz looked like a fun place also- karaoke was tonight and they clearly have an after dinner appeal. One of the things I love about Restaurant.com is their target clients are good, authentic restaurants that aren't chains (most of the time or if they are- good chains) that offer great food.
And- if you haven't climbed on board with Restaurant.com or wonder if restaurants would give you an attitude or you're embarrassed to use one- don't be! We had just sat down, gave her our printout and 3 minutes later- 2 women came in with their printout in hand! The chef came out and talked with us. We had just told our waitress how much we enjoyed the food and how we would have never gone there without the gift certificate. He said he has had more business at night and lunch since he started using the program and how happy he had been with it.
Restaurant.com found us a great restaurant that will become part of our vacation traditions when we come to Destin.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Proof in the Pudding: How I did today
Here's my two shops today down at the beach and how well we did. Definitely on vacation mode and there's no reason to save money but my motto is "Why waste money at the grocery store or Walmart that is meant to be spent at the Premium Outlets??"
Breakdown- What came with me?
1. Publix lists were generated for both Atlanta and Florida on Wednesday night. Did Atlanta first so I could cross check the items I was interested in that I could bring with me since Georgia Publix doubles coupons up to .50 in Georgia and Florida doesn't double at all! (GASP!) Figured out what was on the Florida list not on Georgia and made sure I printed those items and got the coupons.
2. Thanks to our germ fest lovely fun filled strep week- I had 2 $25 Publix gift cards from our antibiotics. One was used to complete the Atlanta list on Friday and the other took care of our trip down here.
3. I also did the Winn Dixie list and found a great promotion. Buy 4 Kellogg Cereals- get a gallon of milk and a dozen eggs for free with their Customer Card. Had coupons to cover all 4 cereals. Went to Customer Service and asked if there was a courtesy card at each register. A courtesy card will let you take advantage of the savings of the card but not get a card for a place you are visiting and not bog down that store's customer loyalty base with "fake customers."
4. Had great coupons for buy 2 Coca Cola 2 liters, get one free. Mike found them on a tearpad in our Publix. Another reason to always have those "Shopper's Eyes" on whenever in a store.
Found another 2 liter coupon blinkie when using the Buy 2 Get 1 coupon. I'll explain that later but it worked and we rocked it on 6 liters of Coke products.
5. Armed with a $4 off $20 CVS coupon so I went to Publix Customer Service and found out that while they don't double in Florida- they did take this coupon.
Publix Trip: In Destin.
Atlanta rocked us 40 items, saved $45 and had almost $3 left on the $25 GC.
Note: This is not an all coupon trip like usual- this is what we need for the beach.
Smart Blend Wesson Oil $2.00
Kraft Horseradish $1.89
Yes I forgot this even though I blogged about it and we use it to spice up cocktail sauce
Pancake Mix $1.39
This is for a killer frying mix with sparkling water for shrimp- very light like Low Country meets Tempura
HotPockets- Madi wanted out of the blue $2.60
Large Classic Salad Mix $2.09
(2) Sargento Large Shredded Cheese $4.00 total
(2) Santtitas Tortilla Chips $4.00 total
Bisquick Cheese Biscuit Mix (girls love) $1.09
Bullfrog Sunscreen Spray for Mike's fishing trip $9.29
Publix Hot Dog buns $1.23
(3) Zephyrhills 3 Liter Waters $3.00 total
(6) Coca Cola 2 Liters $8.00 total before coupons (Next to nothing after)
(6) Publix Sodas $2.60 or so
After $11 in coupons (no doubling) the total came to $34.89. Between the 2 GCs from our StrepFest- out grand total was $8.20 OOP.
Winn Dixie
Bag of 10lb Ice
Bag of assorted cream cookies for girls to snack on this week
(8) Arm & Hammer Complete Care toothpaste full size
My fav and love the Peroxide and Baking Soda and final price was .35 each! Yes, I even stockpile at the beach!
(4) 12 oz or more boxes of Kellogg's Cereal. Going home for school what we don't use here.
Free Gallon of Milk from above purchase
Free dozen eggs from above purchase
(2) Armour Sizzle and Serve sausages for our fab breakfasts planned
Muscadines (2lbs)
Squash (2lbs)
Limes (2lbs)
Strawberries (2lbs)
(2) Crystal Lights 3 count
Roma Tomatoes (2lbs)
After coupons and promotions: $25.94 and I saved $53.42.
Had I just walked in a drug store alone and bought the Arm & Hammer toothpaste- I'd spend over that total.
So final for my staples for the week with splurges and SOME "wants" added to the vacay week- I spent $25 at home beforehand and $35 here. And that's including the toothpaste and cereal coming home that will last for a long time.
We can eat off the fishing trips, the seafood markets, stay out of Walmart and the stores for at least 3/4 of the week. If the weather cooperates- this time in Destin is awesome- calm beaches, fair temperatures and the family spent the late afternoon finding some of the most amazing shells that I haven't seen in Destin in 20 years. I didn't put a bathing suit on- just planned to watch the girls and I was soaked getting the shells Madi found with her net. We'll go out to eat where it's great and definitely spoil the family... I promise it is so much more fun when you spoil the masses on truly special things and not just that "needed" luxury that vacation means eating out. Vacation to me means hanging out, keeping things simple, eating well, loving life and appreciating a beach that has been such a part of Mike and I.
Destin beaches hold such a special connection for Mike and I. The decisions we have made together can be linked to sitting on these beaches and watching this gorgeous shore. Our lives ahead are going to hold even more special times here for our family this year and onward. Too many decisions from PGA Cards to Marriage to Fortune 5 companies to Family to Moving have been discussed here sitting in this white sand and we want our family to continue this tradition that has been working for the Mike and Traci Rogers Family in the last 18 years. All I know is when I take that "free" (any Destin person will laugh) bridge across the bay on 331- I breathe easier, I smile more and I feel like I am home.
We rocked it- we have a fun week planned, little money spent on petty stuff and it's going to be a great week! If you want help planning your vacay- let me know!!
Breakdown- What came with me?
1. Publix lists were generated for both Atlanta and Florida on Wednesday night. Did Atlanta first so I could cross check the items I was interested in that I could bring with me since Georgia Publix doubles coupons up to .50 in Georgia and Florida doesn't double at all! (GASP!) Figured out what was on the Florida list not on Georgia and made sure I printed those items and got the coupons.
2. Thanks to our germ fest lovely fun filled strep week- I had 2 $25 Publix gift cards from our antibiotics. One was used to complete the Atlanta list on Friday and the other took care of our trip down here.
3. I also did the Winn Dixie list and found a great promotion. Buy 4 Kellogg Cereals- get a gallon of milk and a dozen eggs for free with their Customer Card. Had coupons to cover all 4 cereals. Went to Customer Service and asked if there was a courtesy card at each register. A courtesy card will let you take advantage of the savings of the card but not get a card for a place you are visiting and not bog down that store's customer loyalty base with "fake customers."
4. Had great coupons for buy 2 Coca Cola 2 liters, get one free. Mike found them on a tearpad in our Publix. Another reason to always have those "Shopper's Eyes" on whenever in a store.
Found another 2 liter coupon blinkie when using the Buy 2 Get 1 coupon. I'll explain that later but it worked and we rocked it on 6 liters of Coke products.
5. Armed with a $4 off $20 CVS coupon so I went to Publix Customer Service and found out that while they don't double in Florida- they did take this coupon.
Publix Trip: In Destin.
Atlanta rocked us 40 items, saved $45 and had almost $3 left on the $25 GC.
Note: This is not an all coupon trip like usual- this is what we need for the beach.
Smart Blend Wesson Oil $2.00
Kraft Horseradish $1.89
Yes I forgot this even though I blogged about it and we use it to spice up cocktail sauce
Pancake Mix $1.39
This is for a killer frying mix with sparkling water for shrimp- very light like Low Country meets Tempura
HotPockets- Madi wanted out of the blue $2.60
Large Classic Salad Mix $2.09
(2) Sargento Large Shredded Cheese $4.00 total
(2) Santtitas Tortilla Chips $4.00 total
Bisquick Cheese Biscuit Mix (girls love) $1.09
Bullfrog Sunscreen Spray for Mike's fishing trip $9.29
Publix Hot Dog buns $1.23
(3) Zephyrhills 3 Liter Waters $3.00 total
(6) Coca Cola 2 Liters $8.00 total before coupons (Next to nothing after)
(6) Publix Sodas $2.60 or so
After $11 in coupons (no doubling) the total came to $34.89. Between the 2 GCs from our StrepFest- out grand total was $8.20 OOP.
Winn Dixie
Bag of 10lb Ice
Bag of assorted cream cookies for girls to snack on this week
(8) Arm & Hammer Complete Care toothpaste full size
My fav and love the Peroxide and Baking Soda and final price was .35 each! Yes, I even stockpile at the beach!
(4) 12 oz or more boxes of Kellogg's Cereal. Going home for school what we don't use here.
Free Gallon of Milk from above purchase
Free dozen eggs from above purchase
(2) Armour Sizzle and Serve sausages for our fab breakfasts planned
Muscadines (2lbs)
Squash (2lbs)
Limes (2lbs)
Strawberries (2lbs)
(2) Crystal Lights 3 count
Roma Tomatoes (2lbs)
After coupons and promotions: $25.94 and I saved $53.42.
Had I just walked in a drug store alone and bought the Arm & Hammer toothpaste- I'd spend over that total.
So final for my staples for the week with splurges and SOME "wants" added to the vacay week- I spent $25 at home beforehand and $35 here. And that's including the toothpaste and cereal coming home that will last for a long time.
We can eat off the fishing trips, the seafood markets, stay out of Walmart and the stores for at least 3/4 of the week. If the weather cooperates- this time in Destin is awesome- calm beaches, fair temperatures and the family spent the late afternoon finding some of the most amazing shells that I haven't seen in Destin in 20 years. I didn't put a bathing suit on- just planned to watch the girls and I was soaked getting the shells Madi found with her net. We'll go out to eat where it's great and definitely spoil the family... I promise it is so much more fun when you spoil the masses on truly special things and not just that "needed" luxury that vacation means eating out. Vacation to me means hanging out, keeping things simple, eating well, loving life and appreciating a beach that has been such a part of Mike and I.
Destin beaches hold such a special connection for Mike and I. The decisions we have made together can be linked to sitting on these beaches and watching this gorgeous shore. Our lives ahead are going to hold even more special times here for our family this year and onward. Too many decisions from PGA Cards to Marriage to Fortune 5 companies to Family to Moving have been discussed here sitting in this white sand and we want our family to continue this tradition that has been working for the Mike and Traci Rogers Family in the last 18 years. All I know is when I take that "free" (any Destin person will laugh) bridge across the bay on 331- I breathe easier, I smile more and I feel like I am home.
We rocked it- we have a fun week planned, little money spent on petty stuff and it's going to be a great week! If you want help planning your vacay- let me know!!
Living Smart 101: Savay on Vacay!
Be sure to scroll down to my other post. It talks more about the pre-planning side of vacation and this is more about what we do to save once we get down to the beach. The next post will show exactly how we saved today when we arrived.
Headed to the beach today for Fall Break and it's funny how with a little planning, you can still save big on your groceries while away from your stores and your home. So many people think that the beach ritual includes checking into your condo or house, unload the car then head to the grocery store to see how many carts you can fill in record time. I watched family after family head up to the cashier, loaded to the hilt and I could just cringe. And then the biggest thought hit me- they are going to throw 1/2 if not more of that food out at the end of this week!!
It is vacation and you should have fun and we have plenty of fun things planned and don't think being in the "Luckiest Fishing Village in the World" that we won't be eating like kings. I just spent a little time, prepared a game plan and didn't break the bank on the staples and splurges we will need this week to survive and enjoy. I brought some with me, found ways to save on others and brought just enough for the week.
1. I pulled Coupon Mom's lists for the 2 stores in this area before I left, created my list and cut the coupons. Knew how the policies varied in Florida and had my coupons ready and organized.
2. I started paying attention to the lists from Coupon Mom the last 6-7 weeks looking at items not only for lowest price, items needed to add to my stockpile but also items that would be needed at the beach or we would enjoy at the beach. I got printer paper box and just kept adding until 2 full boxes came down with us, Side items, pickles, salad dressing, extra roll of paper towels, bottle of cleaner etc. Just enough to get us through the week and not have to purchase once we got here. Knowing we will be cooking a lot of seafood so a nice wild rice, some mac & cheese for the kids are items I already had so why buy more?
3. In reference to #2: "No crazy ideas like let's take 6 things of mac & cheese." I brought 2 which is reasonable and if we go through 2 boxes and we are out- that's fine. If they are begging for M&C at the end of the week- we'll head to the store and get another box. The goal of bringing food with you is to not take food home with you or the bare minimum. I don't condone throwing anything away unless it's unsafe to travel but minimal is better in this department.
4. Take 5 minutes the night before you leave and go through the frig. Clear a space and put condiments, pickles, dressings, creamers etc you would need at the beach in a group. Get up the next morning and throw in a cooler. If you have a 3/4 bottle of ketchup- why not bring it with you, use it instead of buying a new one a few hours later? This is also a good way to purge the frig and you often use condiments like horseradish more at the beach than at home. (we do)
5. Keep your shopping "eyes" open even at stores you aren't used to shopping at that aren't in your local area. Shopping at the Winn Dixie today- I found the manager specials and I didn't even realize I was looking. Saw a rack in the back by the backroom for produce and hit a gold mine. 2 dozens limes, 2lbs of squash, 2lbs of roma local tomatoes, 1lb of muscadines and 2 lbs of strawberries for just under $7.00.
6. We did get 2 Restaurant.com gift certificates when they were 90% off. One is for Gravel Road which has been featured by Southern Living Magazine numerous times.
7. This area was very rainy last week so I pulled all of my resources and found activities to do before we left home if we aren't having fun in the sun. I had free bowling coupons from a Tony's Pizza deal and found a local alley that will accept them, I had free movie tickets from Pop Tarts so I did the same thing, and I researched the local malls and shops to find Family Nights and Activities during our stay. I have found a jam packed week of things to do at night including free Princess face painting, the Purina Dog Jumping Championships and free ice cream at Stone Cold Creamery on 9/24 for a $1.00 donation.
8. Final last tip- we checked the occupancy of our condo the week prior to ours. No one had rented it so Mike called yesterday to see if we could check in a couple of hours early- that would be around 2pm in our minds. Nope- try 10:30 am! That's a whole extra day in our eyes. We got up this morning and we were in the condo by noon CST. Had we added an extra day, it would have been $77 plus taxes and charges.
It may seem like a little work but when you are excited about a week at the beach, want to get there with a plan, not spend a fortune on staples and the basics, don't waste your time wandering the grocery store everyday... it's worth it in the end. I'll break it down in my next post and show how it really works!
Sorry for the quiet- time is just flying by!
Headed to the beach today for Fall Break and it's funny how with a little planning, you can still save big on your groceries while away from your stores and your home. So many people think that the beach ritual includes checking into your condo or house, unload the car then head to the grocery store to see how many carts you can fill in record time. I watched family after family head up to the cashier, loaded to the hilt and I could just cringe. And then the biggest thought hit me- they are going to throw 1/2 if not more of that food out at the end of this week!!
It is vacation and you should have fun and we have plenty of fun things planned and don't think being in the "Luckiest Fishing Village in the World" that we won't be eating like kings. I just spent a little time, prepared a game plan and didn't break the bank on the staples and splurges we will need this week to survive and enjoy. I brought some with me, found ways to save on others and brought just enough for the week.
1. I pulled Coupon Mom's lists for the 2 stores in this area before I left, created my list and cut the coupons. Knew how the policies varied in Florida and had my coupons ready and organized.
2. I started paying attention to the lists from Coupon Mom the last 6-7 weeks looking at items not only for lowest price, items needed to add to my stockpile but also items that would be needed at the beach or we would enjoy at the beach. I got printer paper box and just kept adding until 2 full boxes came down with us, Side items, pickles, salad dressing, extra roll of paper towels, bottle of cleaner etc. Just enough to get us through the week and not have to purchase once we got here. Knowing we will be cooking a lot of seafood so a nice wild rice, some mac & cheese for the kids are items I already had so why buy more?
3. In reference to #2: "No crazy ideas like let's take 6 things of mac & cheese." I brought 2 which is reasonable and if we go through 2 boxes and we are out- that's fine. If they are begging for M&C at the end of the week- we'll head to the store and get another box. The goal of bringing food with you is to not take food home with you or the bare minimum. I don't condone throwing anything away unless it's unsafe to travel but minimal is better in this department.
4. Take 5 minutes the night before you leave and go through the frig. Clear a space and put condiments, pickles, dressings, creamers etc you would need at the beach in a group. Get up the next morning and throw in a cooler. If you have a 3/4 bottle of ketchup- why not bring it with you, use it instead of buying a new one a few hours later? This is also a good way to purge the frig and you often use condiments like horseradish more at the beach than at home. (we do)
5. Keep your shopping "eyes" open even at stores you aren't used to shopping at that aren't in your local area. Shopping at the Winn Dixie today- I found the manager specials and I didn't even realize I was looking. Saw a rack in the back by the backroom for produce and hit a gold mine. 2 dozens limes, 2lbs of squash, 2lbs of roma local tomatoes, 1lb of muscadines and 2 lbs of strawberries for just under $7.00.
6. We did get 2 Restaurant.com gift certificates when they were 90% off. One is for Gravel Road which has been featured by Southern Living Magazine numerous times.
7. This area was very rainy last week so I pulled all of my resources and found activities to do before we left home if we aren't having fun in the sun. I had free bowling coupons from a Tony's Pizza deal and found a local alley that will accept them, I had free movie tickets from Pop Tarts so I did the same thing, and I researched the local malls and shops to find Family Nights and Activities during our stay. I have found a jam packed week of things to do at night including free Princess face painting, the Purina Dog Jumping Championships and free ice cream at Stone Cold Creamery on 9/24 for a $1.00 donation.
8. Final last tip- we checked the occupancy of our condo the week prior to ours. No one had rented it so Mike called yesterday to see if we could check in a couple of hours early- that would be around 2pm in our minds. Nope- try 10:30 am! That's a whole extra day in our eyes. We got up this morning and we were in the condo by noon CST. Had we added an extra day, it would have been $77 plus taxes and charges.
It may seem like a little work but when you are excited about a week at the beach, want to get there with a plan, not spend a fortune on staples and the basics, don't waste your time wandering the grocery store everyday... it's worth it in the end. I'll break it down in my next post and show how it really works!
Sorry for the quiet- time is just flying by!
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Germs Invaded! What I like at Publix this week!
Dealing with strep but have to admit that I am impressed we've made since 8/3 and now dealing with our first DR visit and out of school. It actually worked out- 10 days of antibiotics for the girls will put us right on the day before we leave for Fall Break...hopefully will keep us well until then. It's going to be a long sick season once the weather turns cold if this is any indication.
I thought Publix looked great this week- here's what I put on my list from CouponMom.com.
All Small and Mighty 3X Laundry Detergent or All 2X Ultra Concentrate- BOGO
Sale Price: $2.50 Coupon: 8/2RP Final Price $1.50 or 70% off
Skintimate Shave Gel
Sale Price: $1.67 Coupon: 8/2S1 Final Price: $.67 or 71% off
Edge Shave Gel
Sale Price: $1.67 Coupon: 8/2S1 Final Price: .92 or 60% off
Kraft Philadelphia Cream Cheese (8 oz tub)
Sale Price: $1.00 Coupon: 8/9RP Must buy 2 Final Price: .50 or 66% off
Newmans Own Pasta Sauce- BOGO
Sale Price: $1.35 Coupon: 8/23RP Final Price: .35 or 87% off
Quaker Instant Oatmeal BOGO
Sale Price: $1.95 Coupon: 8/30RP Must buy 2 Final Price: $1.33 or 66% off
Green Giant Frozen Veggies
Sale Price: $1.00 Coupon: 9/13S1 Must buy 2 Final Price: .50 or 66% off
If I bought everything- I'd spend $8.09 and save 68%.
I thought Publix looked great this week- here's what I put on my list from CouponMom.com.
All Small and Mighty 3X Laundry Detergent or All 2X Ultra Concentrate- BOGO
Sale Price: $2.50 Coupon: 8/2RP Final Price $1.50 or 70% off
Skintimate Shave Gel
Sale Price: $1.67 Coupon: 8/2S1 Final Price: $.67 or 71% off
Edge Shave Gel
Sale Price: $1.67 Coupon: 8/2S1 Final Price: .92 or 60% off
Kraft Philadelphia Cream Cheese (8 oz tub)
Sale Price: $1.00 Coupon: 8/9RP Must buy 2 Final Price: .50 or 66% off
Newmans Own Pasta Sauce- BOGO
Sale Price: $1.35 Coupon: 8/23RP Final Price: .35 or 87% off
Quaker Instant Oatmeal BOGO
Sale Price: $1.95 Coupon: 8/30RP Must buy 2 Final Price: $1.33 or 66% off
Green Giant Frozen Veggies
Sale Price: $1.00 Coupon: 9/13S1 Must buy 2 Final Price: .50 or 66% off
If I bought everything- I'd spend $8.09 and save 68%.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Living Smart 101: Saving On Vacation
I was asked to share how I save money when we go to the beach. I've shared my tips and hints for Disney so I thought I'd share how I save when we go to the beach. A lot of us are about to have Fall Break in September and if you are from Atlanta or the surrounding areas- the majority of us make a mass exodus to the Gulf Coast.
1. Shop around and check out different companies. Pit them against one another. Mike did this and played 2 different companies against one another. We are repeat renters with both and we found out who wanted to retain our business. Mike told the person he was working with how much he wanted to spend, the amenities he wanted, location, size etc. Both companies offered a repeat business discount that wasn't featured on their websites. They each offered to take 20% off the weekly rate.
2. Talking to a real person than just relying on the websites. The person Mike was working with was able to tell him all about the condo we ended up renting. It's one of her favorites (these are smaller companies in Destin so she just wasn't blowing smoke), how clean it was, newly renovated etc. We got a lot more information about different units which made our choice easier to decide on.
3. Check out companies that offer amenities like free golf, free fishing, movie rentals etc. The two companies we like to use have a full amenities package that comes with your rental. Mike gets a free round of golf including cart fee for every day we are there!! And 2 courses he can choose from are in Sandestin. Rates on these 2 courses are pushing $100 a round. We get a free dolphin cruise, fishing excursion and dvd rentals every day. When you take in account what it would cost to do these things on our own- the value of our rental is even better than just a place to stay on the beach.
4. Start making lists now for things you need at the beach. I have a goal that I stay out of Walmart then we are in Destin. I have an excel spreadsheet for the beach that lists all the stuff we need so I can check everything off when I'm packing. And I start modifying the list about a month out from our trip. When I think of something, I put it on the list. And I put even the most obvious on the spreadsheet. We've actually had to buy Mike a bathing suit one year when we got there!!
5. Start watching deals for food and supplies you can take with you. For example, I picked up several things of salsa when it was a steal for the beach. Same thing on breakfast and lunch items. Taking it with you when you can find great deals will keep you out of the grocery store also while down there and cut your food costs while there.
6. Once Labor Day hits, watch the clearance aisles at the grocery stores and drug stores for rock bottom prices plus coupons on items like swim pants, sunscreen, beach toys etc. Keep coupons on you for items like these so when you run across a deal then you can grab it and save!!
7. Watch for coupons for eating out and check out Restaurant.com to see what's available for the area you are headed to. I make a travel binder with our reservations, directions to the office and unit and include a pocket for coupons. I got a Buy 1 Get 1 coupon for Outback so I'll throw it in there. We eat a lot of seafood so a lunch or dinner to change things up a little might be nice. We don't do chains in Destin but with a coupon- we might make an exception.
8. Speaking of seafood- we do try to take our sides down like pasta, rice etc. so we are primarily just buying produce, milk and seafood while down there.
Planning ahead not only saves money but allows you to stay out of the stores and making your week at the beach even more stress free and relaxing!!
1. Shop around and check out different companies. Pit them against one another. Mike did this and played 2 different companies against one another. We are repeat renters with both and we found out who wanted to retain our business. Mike told the person he was working with how much he wanted to spend, the amenities he wanted, location, size etc. Both companies offered a repeat business discount that wasn't featured on their websites. They each offered to take 20% off the weekly rate.
2. Talking to a real person than just relying on the websites. The person Mike was working with was able to tell him all about the condo we ended up renting. It's one of her favorites (these are smaller companies in Destin so she just wasn't blowing smoke), how clean it was, newly renovated etc. We got a lot more information about different units which made our choice easier to decide on.
3. Check out companies that offer amenities like free golf, free fishing, movie rentals etc. The two companies we like to use have a full amenities package that comes with your rental. Mike gets a free round of golf including cart fee for every day we are there!! And 2 courses he can choose from are in Sandestin. Rates on these 2 courses are pushing $100 a round. We get a free dolphin cruise, fishing excursion and dvd rentals every day. When you take in account what it would cost to do these things on our own- the value of our rental is even better than just a place to stay on the beach.
4. Start making lists now for things you need at the beach. I have a goal that I stay out of Walmart then we are in Destin. I have an excel spreadsheet for the beach that lists all the stuff we need so I can check everything off when I'm packing. And I start modifying the list about a month out from our trip. When I think of something, I put it on the list. And I put even the most obvious on the spreadsheet. We've actually had to buy Mike a bathing suit one year when we got there!!
5. Start watching deals for food and supplies you can take with you. For example, I picked up several things of salsa when it was a steal for the beach. Same thing on breakfast and lunch items. Taking it with you when you can find great deals will keep you out of the grocery store also while down there and cut your food costs while there.
6. Once Labor Day hits, watch the clearance aisles at the grocery stores and drug stores for rock bottom prices plus coupons on items like swim pants, sunscreen, beach toys etc. Keep coupons on you for items like these so when you run across a deal then you can grab it and save!!
7. Watch for coupons for eating out and check out Restaurant.com to see what's available for the area you are headed to. I make a travel binder with our reservations, directions to the office and unit and include a pocket for coupons. I got a Buy 1 Get 1 coupon for Outback so I'll throw it in there. We eat a lot of seafood so a lunch or dinner to change things up a little might be nice. We don't do chains in Destin but with a coupon- we might make an exception.
8. Speaking of seafood- we do try to take our sides down like pasta, rice etc. so we are primarily just buying produce, milk and seafood while down there.
Planning ahead not only saves money but allows you to stay out of the stores and making your week at the beach even more stress free and relaxing!!
Monday, August 24, 2009
Publix Preschool Club
Click here to sign up! You get several cool things like a game (my children love it. Mac plays it all the time now and Madi did when she was three), newsletter, birthday cards, freebies and coupons.
And if you are expecting- search the Publix site for the Baby Club. Several great freebies and coupons!
And if you are expecting- search the Publix site for the Baby Club. Several great freebies and coupons!
Sunday, August 23, 2009
What can $7.42 buy you at Kroger with NO COUPONS???
HORROR!! We went to Kroger and GASP!! didn't have any coupon??? I didn't see anything on the lists this week that interests me but we were right there and we needed bread for Madi's lunches this week.
For $7.42 and no coupons... we got:
Dozen Eggs
Jumbo 16 pack of hot dog buns
Loaf of sandwich bread
5lb bag of Russet Potatoes
Cheese Slices 16 count
2 Summer Toys for our beach trip on clearance
Great deals to round out our stockpile, help keep our week simple and our stress levels down. How? Just for taking a quick minute and walking the store to see what's on sale and what's on Manager's Special. All staples, needed items and tremendous savings!
For $7.42 and no coupons... we got:
Dozen Eggs
Jumbo 16 pack of hot dog buns
Loaf of sandwich bread
5lb bag of Russet Potatoes
Cheese Slices 16 count
2 Summer Toys for our beach trip on clearance
Great deals to round out our stockpile, help keep our week simple and our stress levels down. How? Just for taking a quick minute and walking the store to see what's on sale and what's on Manager's Special. All staples, needed items and tremendous savings!
Living Smart 101: No Waste in my house!
I've mentioned how crazy the gardens have become this time of year as they wind down and produce way more than we can consume before the produce goes to waste. We've taken things a step further and been canning. We've canned over 60 quarts of pickles, created several relishes and been working on some hot pepper sauces, gumbo bases, banana pepper rings, pickled peppers and jalapenos, hot refrigerator pickles (those have been the hit of the summer) and salsa just to name a few of our many products! I think I could probably start a SCB line! LOL
Luckily, Mike's grandmother has retired from the canning business :) and gave us all of her jars. Mike's mom gave us several as well. We made a goal- NO WASTE! We didn't want to look back during the Winter months and remember all the produce we had right now and instead enjoy the fruits of our labor all year round. With times the way they are right now- utilizing every resource available is crucial. We used coupons to get our spices, supplies etc. ...we even found a coupon for the lids for the cans. We had a few cans pop their lids and we wasted those but had so many cucumbers that we just sanitized the jars and tried again. We used traditional, no fail recipes and our family and friends have loved our results.
Again, we've taken this mindset to a new level. For example, we had 3/4 of a gallon of milk that is expiring tomorrow. Milk was fine but no way it could be drunk today. Was I going to let it go to waste? HECK NO! I had a bag of potatoes that needed to be used, a killer week coming up with Curriculum Night Tuesday night right after Scouts so I made Baked Potato Soup! It's ready to be heated up when we rush home from Daisy Scouts and have just a few minutes before the babysitter gets here and we need to be at school. Had milk left- so I made 2 boxes of mac and cheese for the girls to eat throughout the week. It will work for Mac's lunch (get it? Mac for Mac? LOL) and again, it's all ready, easy week with meals already planned and prepared for the most part!
There are other areas too to think about. I needed half a red onion the other night. I chopped the whole thing and froze the remainder for future use. Tomatoes are going faster than we can eat them so we made Garlic, Basil and Tomato Soup this weekend.
Just think outside the box and make it your goal to see how much you can utilize what you have and eliminate as much waste as possible. Before you know it... it will be second nature!
Luckily, Mike's grandmother has retired from the canning business :) and gave us all of her jars. Mike's mom gave us several as well. We made a goal- NO WASTE! We didn't want to look back during the Winter months and remember all the produce we had right now and instead enjoy the fruits of our labor all year round. With times the way they are right now- utilizing every resource available is crucial. We used coupons to get our spices, supplies etc. ...we even found a coupon for the lids for the cans. We had a few cans pop their lids and we wasted those but had so many cucumbers that we just sanitized the jars and tried again. We used traditional, no fail recipes and our family and friends have loved our results.
Again, we've taken this mindset to a new level. For example, we had 3/4 of a gallon of milk that is expiring tomorrow. Milk was fine but no way it could be drunk today. Was I going to let it go to waste? HECK NO! I had a bag of potatoes that needed to be used, a killer week coming up with Curriculum Night Tuesday night right after Scouts so I made Baked Potato Soup! It's ready to be heated up when we rush home from Daisy Scouts and have just a few minutes before the babysitter gets here and we need to be at school. Had milk left- so I made 2 boxes of mac and cheese for the girls to eat throughout the week. It will work for Mac's lunch (get it? Mac for Mac? LOL) and again, it's all ready, easy week with meals already planned and prepared for the most part!
There are other areas too to think about. I needed half a red onion the other night. I chopped the whole thing and froze the remainder for future use. Tomatoes are going faster than we can eat them so we made Garlic, Basil and Tomato Soup this weekend.
Just think outside the box and make it your goal to see how much you can utilize what you have and eliminate as much waste as possible. Before you know it... it will be second nature!
Coupon for Free Yoplait Yo Plus Yogurt!
If you do the Publix deal this week on the Yo Plus, making it just a quarter for a 4 pack- I've got a way to make it even sweeter!!
Save your receipt, get a UPC off a package and print the form from www.yoplus.com. Fill it out, circle your purchase on your original receipt and get a coupon for a free 4 pack in the mail.
And if you don't have Publix- get the coupon, buy some yogurt and know you are getting a 2nd 4 pack for free down the road.
Save your receipt, get a UPC off a package and print the form from www.yoplus.com. Fill it out, circle your purchase on your original receipt and get a coupon for a free 4 pack in the mail.
And if you don't have Publix- get the coupon, buy some yogurt and know you are getting a 2nd 4 pack for free down the road.
A1 Steak Sauce .09 cents at Target!
Smaller bottles of A1 are $2.09 at Target (not on sale) and in the 8/16 SmartSource, there is a coupon for $2.00 off 1 bottle which would make A1 just 9 cents each!! Perfectly legal, not size limit coupon from this insert!
We got 4 the other night. Cashier really studied the coupon but found nothing to say it wasn't valid.
GREAT DEAL!! Remember- your stores may vary by region but if you are going there for something else- grab your coupons and check it out!
We got 4 the other night. Cashier really studied the coupon but found nothing to say it wasn't valid.
GREAT DEAL!! Remember- your stores may vary by region but if you are going there for something else- grab your coupons and check it out!
Living Smart 101: A little time saves A LOT of Money Part I
Old habits die hard and new habits can save money!
I've started a new habit that is saving us money on our electric bill. I've mentioned in an earlier post about unplugging things we don't use often and I did see a difference on the bill. I've taken it a step further and now the whole family is in on it.
We do the monthly averages on our electric bill which means they average our bill throughout the year and we pay the same each month owing anything over that average in May. Usually, because of running the AC, we are over the averages by a good bit this time of the year. For July- we were just $40 over average for the month and if you are here in Atlanta... you know how hot it is.
Here's the habits we are doing and it is working!
1. When we leave the house, everyone turns off all TVs, ceiling fans and we bump the thermostats up to 81-82 degrees. It's hot when we get home but once the fans start running again and we bump the air down- it's very quick for the house to cool down. We don't bump it down to 78 to put the AC in overdrive but we gradually bump it down until we are comfortable.
My new mindset is why cool the air in the house when no one is here! I've really not noticed it being uncomfortable at all and back to normal very quickly.
2. I'm trying very hard to keep the AC at 80 degrees. The fans keep the air moving and it's usually not until the afternoon that it gets uncomfortable if it's really hot outside. It works for us and I realize not everyone can do it but our downstairs stays very cool despite how hot it gets outside. I also make sure I bump the air up into the 80s when I go to bed or upstairs for the night for the same reason. And throughout the day- if we are upstairs, turn up downstairs and vice versa.
3. Turning ceiling fans off in rooms we don't frequent. I realized one day that I didn't really pay attention to rooms that had fans on 24/7 and no one is using these rooms!
4. We had a floor fan in the garage and since we had it- why not use it? We'll use it upstairs on really scorching days to just generate more air flow in the late afternoon.
These new habits are working, my family is doing them without being asked and we're seeing results on the bill!
I've started a new habit that is saving us money on our electric bill. I've mentioned in an earlier post about unplugging things we don't use often and I did see a difference on the bill. I've taken it a step further and now the whole family is in on it.
We do the monthly averages on our electric bill which means they average our bill throughout the year and we pay the same each month owing anything over that average in May. Usually, because of running the AC, we are over the averages by a good bit this time of the year. For July- we were just $40 over average for the month and if you are here in Atlanta... you know how hot it is.
Here's the habits we are doing and it is working!
1. When we leave the house, everyone turns off all TVs, ceiling fans and we bump the thermostats up to 81-82 degrees. It's hot when we get home but once the fans start running again and we bump the air down- it's very quick for the house to cool down. We don't bump it down to 78 to put the AC in overdrive but we gradually bump it down until we are comfortable.
My new mindset is why cool the air in the house when no one is here! I've really not noticed it being uncomfortable at all and back to normal very quickly.
2. I'm trying very hard to keep the AC at 80 degrees. The fans keep the air moving and it's usually not until the afternoon that it gets uncomfortable if it's really hot outside. It works for us and I realize not everyone can do it but our downstairs stays very cool despite how hot it gets outside. I also make sure I bump the air up into the 80s when I go to bed or upstairs for the night for the same reason. And throughout the day- if we are upstairs, turn up downstairs and vice versa.
3. Turning ceiling fans off in rooms we don't frequent. I realized one day that I didn't really pay attention to rooms that had fans on 24/7 and no one is using these rooms!
4. We had a floor fan in the garage and since we had it- why not use it? We'll use it upstairs on really scorching days to just generate more air flow in the late afternoon.
These new habits are working, my family is doing them without being asked and we're seeing results on the bill!
Living Smart 101: A little time saves A LOT of Money Part II
Here's my second story about how just taking a little time and effort can help you save even more money! Can't guarantee it will work every time but if you have a few minutes, it's worth the effort. I find it pays off somehow, some way in the end. I'll explain once I tell you what happened today.
Madi had a birthday party in Canton. I had my Publix trips to finish so the 3 of us went to the shopping center that Publix is located in. There is also a Ross (like TJ Maxx if you don't have Ross) and Belk Department Store (popular in the South).
The Belk at North Pointe Mall is closing and everything is marked down with an additional 80% off final price. Mike's parents scored some great deals but this mall is a good distance from Canton so I was trying to decide when I should go check it out. Definitely couldn't do the trip right then and leave Madi in Canton in case something happened. We checked out Ross- didn't see that great of deals so we checked out Belk. They aren't closing but their clearance was HUGE with an additional 40% off. I found several great deals but it hit me- 40% before Labor Day? They had a lot of inventory to move so what was my rush? I did find a really nice pair of khaki shorts and I got those. Normally, $40 for $9.00.
Speeding things up- on the way home- we were passing our local Goodwill. It's very nice- I know that opinion can vary by location but we like ours. So we stop and not only did I get a pair of Macy's brand khaki shorts but a NY&Co. pair of black pants. BOTH NEW WITH 1 with TAGS!! Shorts were $1.95 and pants were $4.89.
My point is- I took a little bit of time, thought outside of the box and I maximized my savings. I still like the shorts I got at Belk- Mike goes right by the location closing so he knows what I'm looking for and hoping he can find the 80% savings. Yes, I have a wonderful husband but I know he wants to go look for him too!
Taking a little time, not impulse shopping and being patient will always pay off in the end!!
Madi had a birthday party in Canton. I had my Publix trips to finish so the 3 of us went to the shopping center that Publix is located in. There is also a Ross (like TJ Maxx if you don't have Ross) and Belk Department Store (popular in the South).
The Belk at North Pointe Mall is closing and everything is marked down with an additional 80% off final price. Mike's parents scored some great deals but this mall is a good distance from Canton so I was trying to decide when I should go check it out. Definitely couldn't do the trip right then and leave Madi in Canton in case something happened. We checked out Ross- didn't see that great of deals so we checked out Belk. They aren't closing but their clearance was HUGE with an additional 40% off. I found several great deals but it hit me- 40% before Labor Day? They had a lot of inventory to move so what was my rush? I did find a really nice pair of khaki shorts and I got those. Normally, $40 for $9.00.
Speeding things up- on the way home- we were passing our local Goodwill. It's very nice- I know that opinion can vary by location but we like ours. So we stop and not only did I get a pair of Macy's brand khaki shorts but a NY&Co. pair of black pants. BOTH NEW WITH 1 with TAGS!! Shorts were $1.95 and pants were $4.89.
My point is- I took a little bit of time, thought outside of the box and I maximized my savings. I still like the shorts I got at Belk- Mike goes right by the location closing so he knows what I'm looking for and hoping he can find the 80% savings. Yes, I have a wonderful husband but I know he wants to go look for him too!
Taking a little time, not impulse shopping and being patient will always pay off in the end!!
Rockin it at Publix this week!!
Three trips today and yes, I only bought the best deals- I'm still really stockpiled.
Here's what I liked today:
Trip 1:
(2) Double AJC papers for 4 sets of coupons $5.00
(1) Huggies Swim Pants-
On clearance for $4.40 plus a coupon from 8/16S for $1.50 additional Final Price: $2.90
(6) Luzianne Tea Bags 24 count BOGO
Sale Price: $1.15 Coupon: 6/21S .60/1 Final Price: .55 or 76% off
Penny Item was a roll of Publix Paper Towels
Total: $11.71 and I saved $17.66
Trip 2:
(1) Huggies Swim Pants-
On clearance for $4.40 plus a coupon from 8/16S for $1.50 additional Final Price: $2.90
(4) Yoplait Yo-Plus 4 packs BOGO
Sale Price: $1.25 Coupon: 8/9GM $1.00/1 Final Price: .25 or 90% off
(8) Barilla Pasta- Assorted
Sale Price: .79 Coupon: 8/23S $1.00/1 Final Price: FREE plus overage .21 each
(4) Chinet Beverage Napkins
Sale Price: $1.19 Coupon: 6/28S $1.00/1 Final Price: .19 or 87% off
(2) Starbucks Ice Cream BOGO
Sale Price: $1.80 Coupon: 6/21S $2.00/1 Final Price: FREE with .20 overage
Penny Item was a roll of Publix Paper Towels
Total: $3.49 and I saved $40.60.
Trip 3:
(8) Yoplait Fiber One Yogurt 4 packs BOGO
Sale Price: $1.25 Coupon: 8/9GM or 7/12S $1.00/1 Final Price: .25 or 90% off
(4) Purina Chef Michael's Canine Creations
Sale Price: .89 Coupon: 8/23RP for up to $1.00 free can Final Price: FREE or 100% off
Penny Itemwas a roll of Publix Paper Towels
Total: $2.22 and I saved over $23.00.
Grand Total Spent: $17.42
Grand Total Saved: $81.26
Total Items: 42
Total % Saved: 79%
And remember that $10.80 was in papers for coupons and 2 packages of swim pants for our beach trip!
Note: It's a lot of yogurt but we all eat a lot and it's good until the end of September. Always check the expiration dates when you buy a lot of an item. It's not a deal if you can't use it all before it goes bad.
Here's what I liked today:
Trip 1:
(2) Double AJC papers for 4 sets of coupons $5.00
(1) Huggies Swim Pants-
On clearance for $4.40 plus a coupon from 8/16S for $1.50 additional Final Price: $2.90
(6) Luzianne Tea Bags 24 count BOGO
Sale Price: $1.15 Coupon: 6/21S .60/1 Final Price: .55 or 76% off
Penny Item was a roll of Publix Paper Towels
Total: $11.71 and I saved $17.66
Trip 2:
(1) Huggies Swim Pants-
On clearance for $4.40 plus a coupon from 8/16S for $1.50 additional Final Price: $2.90
(4) Yoplait Yo-Plus 4 packs BOGO
Sale Price: $1.25 Coupon: 8/9GM $1.00/1 Final Price: .25 or 90% off
(8) Barilla Pasta- Assorted
Sale Price: .79 Coupon: 8/23S $1.00/1 Final Price: FREE plus overage .21 each
(4) Chinet Beverage Napkins
Sale Price: $1.19 Coupon: 6/28S $1.00/1 Final Price: .19 or 87% off
(2) Starbucks Ice Cream BOGO
Sale Price: $1.80 Coupon: 6/21S $2.00/1 Final Price: FREE with .20 overage
Penny Item was a roll of Publix Paper Towels
Total: $3.49 and I saved $40.60.
Trip 3:
(8) Yoplait Fiber One Yogurt 4 packs BOGO
Sale Price: $1.25 Coupon: 8/9GM or 7/12S $1.00/1 Final Price: .25 or 90% off
(4) Purina Chef Michael's Canine Creations
Sale Price: .89 Coupon: 8/23RP for up to $1.00 free can Final Price: FREE or 100% off
Penny Itemwas a roll of Publix Paper Towels
Total: $2.22 and I saved over $23.00.
Grand Total Spent: $17.42
Grand Total Saved: $81.26
Total Items: 42
Total % Saved: 79%
And remember that $10.80 was in papers for coupons and 2 packages of swim pants for our beach trip!
Note: It's a lot of yogurt but we all eat a lot and it's good until the end of September. Always check the expiration dates when you buy a lot of an item. It's not a deal if you can't use it all before it goes bad.
Monday, August 17, 2009
I'm BACK!!!
Forgive me but rookie school mom had no idea that the summer is really only a slightly longer break than what feels like a Spring Break or Fall Break. One minute we were out of school- the next... getting ready for our school year!
Readers who aren't in Atlanta- I live slight NW of the Metro Atlanta area in Cherokee County. We have a school calendar that is technically considered "year round." Meaning- we are in our 3rd week of school! I have friends all over the country that think we are crazy!! However, we get a week off almost every 6 weeks which is essential not only to the students but my teacher friends tell me that these breaks restore not only their energy but their sanity.
I'm back on the blog 110%, will be finding the deals once again, keep adding to the Coupon 101 for the essential skills to get you started and letting you know what I find for great deals all over.
Just got pulled in too many directions and something had to fall behind. So please check back everyday!!
Thanks for your support, please email me with questions and if you have emailed and not heard from me- there was an issue with my email account that has finally been restored. I wasn't ignoring you! LOL
Readers who aren't in Atlanta- I live slight NW of the Metro Atlanta area in Cherokee County. We have a school calendar that is technically considered "year round." Meaning- we are in our 3rd week of school! I have friends all over the country that think we are crazy!! However, we get a week off almost every 6 weeks which is essential not only to the students but my teacher friends tell me that these breaks restore not only their energy but their sanity.
I'm back on the blog 110%, will be finding the deals once again, keep adding to the Coupon 101 for the essential skills to get you started and letting you know what I find for great deals all over.
Just got pulled in too many directions and something had to fall behind. So please check back everyday!!
Thanks for your support, please email me with questions and if you have emailed and not heard from me- there was an issue with my email account that has finally been restored. I wasn't ignoring you! LOL
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Great Deal at Ultra this week!
If you use "salon" products- there is a great sale at Ultra this week! Liter sizes of select Matrix and Redken shampoos and conditioners are on sale this week for $13.99.
Matrix line includes: Biolage, Amplifly and Sleek Look
Redken line includes: Blonde Glam, Color Extend, Smooth Down and many more.
Combine with the $3.50 off $10.00 or more purchase and you're getting an incredible deal. Liters go for $14.95 at Walmart and much more expensive at other stores and salons. There is a limit of 6 liters per customer. Gather multiple coupons, do multiple shops and you can save big and stock up for a long time.
I'm constantly asked what I am willing to spend money on and it's shampoo and conditioner. I think it last longer, my color last longer and my hair is healthier in the end.
Matrix line includes: Biolage, Amplifly and Sleek Look
Redken line includes: Blonde Glam, Color Extend, Smooth Down and many more.
Combine with the $3.50 off $10.00 or more purchase and you're getting an incredible deal. Liters go for $14.95 at Walmart and much more expensive at other stores and salons. There is a limit of 6 liters per customer. Gather multiple coupons, do multiple shops and you can save big and stock up for a long time.
I'm constantly asked what I am willing to spend money on and it's shampoo and conditioner. I think it last longer, my color last longer and my hair is healthier in the end.
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