Saving Some Green

Weekly Shopping Trip

2009-10-31T09:23:00.004-06:00

Would you believe I am under budget this week? Well, I am! I am way excited. This is the first time in a LOOONNNNGGG time that I have been under budget. On Monday night I braved the cold and the wind and the storms to go to Albertson's to used my doublers. I only got a few things, and I don't know if it was worth it, but...

Albertson's Transaction #1 2 crunch-n-munch - $2.00 (-$1.00 off 2 coupon doubled) = FREE

1 Marie Calendars Homestyle creation - $2.50 (-1.00 off coupon doubled) = $.50

1 Nestle chocolate chips - $2.50 (-.50 off coupon doubled) = $1.50

2 Banquet sausages - $2.00

I also found a $1.00 catalina on the floor on my way in! It was under the carts and looked like it had been run over a ton. I wonder if it was a $1.00 bill if it would have been gone long before??

Net OOP: $3.39

Transaction #2
1 Coke zero - $1.50 (-FREE coupon from My Coke Rewards) = FREE

2 Snuggle creme dryer sheets - $7.98 (-2 $3.00 off coupons) = $1.98

1 Little Debbie cupcakes - $2.50 (-1.00 off coupon doubled) = $.50

1 Alexia potato waffle fries - $2.00 (-1.00 off coupon doubled) = FREE

4 cans Rotel tomatoes - $4.00 (-1.00 off 4 coupon doubled) = $2.00

Net OOP: $5.38

I stopped by Walgreen's on my way home and got a few items.

Transaction#1
1 Vaseline Sheer Infusions lotion - $6.99 (-1.00 off coupon) = $5.99

Net OOP: $6.41 + I received a $7.00 Register Reward

Transaction #2

1 Hall's Refresh - $1.00

2 Ziploc bags - $5.00 w/in ad coupon (-1.00 off 2 coupon) = $4.00

2 Crystal light - $3.98 (-$2.00 off coupon) = $1.98

1 Hershey's w/ almonds - $.89

Used $7.00 RR from Transaction#1

Net OOP: $1.52 + I received a $1.00 RR for the Hall's

Then I hit up Fred Meyer for some great deals:

2 All detergent - $5.98 w/in ad coupon (-2 $1.00 off coupons) = $3.98

1 FF Cottage cheese - $.69 (clearanced)

2 Bar S Hot Dogs - $2.00 w/in ad coupon (-1.00 off 2 coupon) = $1.00

7 1/2 gallons milk - $7.00 w/in ad coupon

2 1/2 gallons OJ - $2.00 w/in ad coupon

1 1/2 gallon chocolate milk - $1.00 w/in ad coupon

Net OOP: $16.79

Finally I went to Boise Bargain Basket - I got some smokin' deals there. They are a closeout grocery store in Boise and they have some really great deals sometimes.

2 pkgs Grandma's cookies (not pictured) - $.66

10 pkgs Mentos sugar free candies - $1.00

4 cans tomato sauce - $1.00

2 5# bags whole wheat flour - $2.00

8 cans Veg-all corn - $2.00

1 pkg Keebler cookies - $1.50

2 pkgs Tennessee Pride sausage - $2.00

1 HUMONGOUS can of chow mein noodles - $.88

Net OOP: $11.66!

How did you do this week?

Giveaway winner!

2009-10-30T17:36:00.005-06:00

Thanks to all of you who entered my giveaway - I wish everyone could win! The winner for the Vaseline Sheer Infusion 3-pack is...

Ashley, I'll be e-mailing you shortly!

For those of you who didn't win...don't forget you can get your own Vaseline Sheer Infusions from Walgreens for $6.99, use THIS coupon for $1.50 off and you will receive a Register Reward for $7.00!

Last chance to enter my giveaway!

2009-10-30T14:39:00.002-06:00

I will be choosing a winner at 5:00 m.s.t. today, so hurry and enter HERE if you haven't had a chance yet!

Good luck!

Ham and Bean Soup

2009-10-30T06:00:00.000-06:00

This is a really yummy and inexpensive soup that is super quick to make. My husband who isn't a soup fan loves this. I got this recipe from The 2002 Taste of Home's Quick Cooking Cookbook. I have been making and freezing my own beans from dried and I decrease the amount of ham by about 1/2, so it is a cheap and filling meal.

2 cans great northern beans, rinsed and drained (I used 4 cups cooked beans from the freezer)

2 medium carrots, diced

1 small onion, chopped

2 T. butter or margarine

2 1/4 c. water

1 1/2 c. cubed fully cooked ham (I used about 3/4 c.)

1/2 tsp. salt

1/8 tsp. white pepper (I use regular pepper)

1 bay leaf

Mash one can (or 2 cups if you made your own) beans, set aside. In a large saucepan, saute the carrots and onion in butter. Stir in the water, ham, seasonings, while and mashed beans; cook over medium heat until heated through. Discard bay leaf before serving.

This soup is great served with some home made bread and a salad.

Enjoy!

To find more great recipes check out the Grocery Cart Challenge's Recipe Swap!

Leave some...take some

2009-10-28T08:54:00.004-06:00

Remember those leave a penny, take a penny dishes/jars at your favorite convenience store? The concept is if you need a penny to pay for your $2.01 purchase, you can take one, but if you buy something for $1.99, you can leave your penny in the dish for the next person. I have taken and left many a penny using this concept.

Fred Meyer has started using this concept, but with coupons. At the front entrance of their store they have a basket that is usually full of coupons. They have catalina machines for coupons that print at the point of sale. Usually they are for products (i.e. $.50 off Ball Park hot dogs, a % off at Fred Meyer jewelers). Sometimes they are for an amount off of your next order (i.e. buy certain products, get $$ off toward your next purchase). If people don't use their catalina coupons, they can leave the coupons in the basket on their way out of the store so that people that will use them can take them.

I started checking that basket every time I go to Fred Meyer. Yes, I am THAT person digging through the coupon basket. I am fine with that. It is so worth it to check, because the last time I was there I found a $2.00 off your next purchase catalina!

What about you? Have you found some great coupons at Fred Meyer's coupon exchange?

FREE Stuff (and Rockin' Deals)!!

2009-10-27T06:00:00.000-06:00

Get a coupon for 15% off your purchase at The Children's Place HERE. You can also shop online and get 15% off of your order. They have some great clearance online ($5.00 shipping on every order). I saw several cute little girl's shirts for $2.99 each, skirts and capris for $3.99, and tights for $2.49. Check it out!

Click HERE for a FREE sample of Enfamil.

Get a FREE $5.00 coupon for Neutrogena Acne Therapy Kit HERE.

Sign up HERE for a chance to win a 1 YEAR supply of diapers from Pampers.com. (Someone has to win, right?)

Get a FREE sample of Prilosec OTC HERE.

Get some cool FREE e-books:

Gardening
Kitchen Crafts
Angel Crafts
Cheap and Easy Crafts
Halloween Crafts
Knitting Patterns
Quick and Thrifty Crochet

Sign up HERE to receive a FREE Lowfat Recipes Cookbook from Crestor.

Get a FREE sample of Kashi Chewy Granola Bars HERE.

Get a FREE sample of Pamper's Extra Protection diapers HERE.

Get a FREE sample of Carefree Ultra Protection HERE.

Get a FREE sample of Goodnites Underpants HERE.

Enjoy!

Review and Giveaway - Vaseline Sheer Infusion

2009-10-26T06:00:00.002-06:00

I first noticed Vaseline Sheer Infusion when it was (and still is) a FREE after RR item at Walgreen's. They are $6.99 and when you purchase one you get a $6.99 Register Reward, essentially making the item FREE. Use the $1.00 off coupon from last Sunday's paper (10/18) and make $1.00. This deal is going on through 10/31. While still contemplating making this purchase myself, I was approached by Rocket XL to test all three types. They also have generously given me 3 full size bottles to giveaway to one lucky reader. Details below following the review...

Scent is an important factor for me in choosing a lotion. I like something that smells nice and works well. Vaseline Sheer Infusion comes in three scents:

Vitamin Burst - is a citrusy fresh scent

Botanical Blend - it a more flowery scent

Mineral Renewal- is a lighter flowery scent (I liked this one the best!)

What is different about Vaseline Sheer Infusion is that it claims to reach all three layers of skin - top, core, and deep down. I tested the lotion in the following situations:

Right before bed: When I woke up in the morning my skin still felt hydrated as if the lotion had just been applied.

My husbands dry knees and elbows: Holy cow! My husband has always had problems with dry knees and elbows. I give him regular "treatments" with different skin lotions and potions. The Vaseline Sheer Infusion seemed to soak in and cover better than other lotions I have used. My husband commented that his knees and elbows felt smoother the following day without having to reapply. Not bad!

My daugther's dry upper arms: My daughter has always had dry upper arms. I applied a small amount on her skin and even now a few days later they feel much more smooth and hydrated.

I would say that Vaseline Sheer Infusion is definitely superior to other lotions I have used in the past. It is more expensive, however, if you can use a coupon and stock up when it is on sale, it can be an affordable addition to your skin regimen.

Hurry by 10/31/2009 and go to Walgreen's and get some FREE after Register Rewards - and go HERE for a $1.50 off coupon, making this a MONEY MAKER!

Or you can just win some here :)! Here are the details of this GIVEAWAY:

I am giving a three pack of Vaseline Sheer Infusion lotions to one lucky reader. This will include all three scents in the 6.8 oz size.

To enter, please leave a comment on this post. (PLEASE!!!) Include your e-mail address so I can get a hold of you!

For additional entries:

Tweet about this giveaway, then leave a comment saying that you did so.

Blog about this giveaway on your own blog, then leave a comment saying that you did so.

Subscribe to my feed, then leave a comment saying that you did so. (leave a comment if you are already a subscriber.

This giveaway is open to US residents only and will end on Friday, October 30th. I will select a winner using random.org and will notify them via e-mail.

Good luck!

Menu Plan Monday - Week of October 26th-November 1st

2009-10-25T21:00:00.001-06:00

No way! November is right around the corner. I cannot believe it. Nor can I believe that Halloween is on Saturday. This year has flown by. Sigh...

Here are our plans for this week:

Monday: Polish sausage in BBQ sauce, rice, broccoli

Tuesday: Swedish meatballs, rice, cooked carrots

Wednesday: Lasagne, green beans, garlic toast

Thursday: Leftovers

Friday: Homemade pizza

Saturday: Church party/Chili feed

Sunday: Apricot Chicken, rice, peas

What's cooking at your house this week? Check out other menu plan ideas HERE.

Computer Issues are the Worst!

2009-10-24T10:54:00.004-06:00

Our computer has been out of commission for over a week now and I have been going crazy! Okay, not really for a while I enjoyed it - until it was time to go grocery shopping. A computer is a must to find coupon matchups, etc.

Well, we purchased a new computer this week and my hubby just set everything up...so I'm back to blogging. I have a great giveaway coming up and some fun things to share. Please stay tuned...

Works for me Wednesday - Photo Organization

2009-10-14T06:00:00.000-06:00

I have always had this dilemma about how to store our digital photos. We purchased our first camera when my nephew was born and we sorted our pictures by family and events (i.e. a folder for my brother's family, a folder for our family, Christmas etc.). When we had our first child we had a folder for his 0-6 months, 6-12 months, etc. When our second child came along we had a dilemma because we started a folder for our daughter. Most of the pictures had both kids in them so we were feverishly trying to put copies in each folder and basically we failed miserably.

We were still using that system when I recently attended an Enrichment Activity at church where we talked about taking photos and photo preservation/storage. I was really impressed by my friend Maggie's explanation about how she stores photos. First of all she has six children and is (or at least seems to be) super organized. Her method just made sense. So much that I went home and reorganized all my photos - and I love it! Now all of our photos are organized by year. That's it. Now that it is 2009 everything gets dumped directly from our digital camera into that folder. Then at the end of the year, I will copy all of the photos onto a disc and store it in our safety deposit box. That if our computer crashes, our house burns down, etc., etc., etc,. I will have all of our photos tucked safely in a secure location. It works for me!

To find more Works for me Wednesday ideas check out We are THAT Family!

Menu Plan Monday - October 12-18

2009-10-11T18:00:00.001-06:00

Last week I was sick. When Mommy is sick everything just stops. I did make some of the items I had planned last week, but not everything. My hubby was very helpful and made dinner a couple of nights, too. I really am thankful for the plan because when I don't feel well, I still know that we have all the makings of dinner for the whole week. This feels good!

Monday - Whole chicken in the crock pot, rice, broccoli

Tuesday - Tuna Helper, fruit

Wednesday - Taco soup, corn muffins

Thursday - Bisquick pie, green beans

Friday - Ham and bean soup, bread (I'll share this recipe on Friday)

Saturday - Leftovers

Sunday - Leftovers

Weekly Shopping Trip

2009-10-10T18:00:00.004-06:00

Computer problems + camera problems = ugly shopping trip post. Sorry, I don't know what is wrong with our camera, and I did take one pic with my cell phone, but ick - these are terrible. Anyway, I did have a pretty good week this week, however, I am frustrated with things not ringing up correctly and at myself for not catching these things as they happen. I was over budget by about $5.00 and had about $5.00 in errors at Albertson's and Walmart. I didn't notice this until I started looking at my receipts. Ugh. Ugh. Ugh. I should go back and fix it, but ugh. It is always so annoying. Anyway, here's the scoop:

Boise Bargain Basket (not pictured):

1 big bag of yellow onions - $1.98

1 bag apples - $1.72

10 snack size doritos - $2.00

2 cans peaches - $1.76

4 cans tomato sauce - $1.00

Net OOP: $10.96

Then I hit up Albie's for the quaker deal and the other deal. I ran into some problems:2 cup o noodles - $1.00 (my kids totally wanted these...I know they are way cheaper elsewhere)

1 A&W rootbeer - $1.29 (again, kids)

5 Ronzoni pasta - $5.00 + 2 Sargento finishers - $5.00 (-3.00 for the spend $10 get $3.00 sale, plus used 2 $.75 off 2 coupons) = $5.50

Then I tried to do this deal again with Steamfresh meals, but the was an error:
2 Steamfresh meals - $10.69 (they were supposed to be $5.00 each, then generate a $3.00 discount) (-2 $1.50 off coupons) = $7.69

2 OM bacon - $5.49 (these were marked down to $1.99 each, one rang up correctly, one rang up at $3.50. Ugh!)

2 Quaker life + 2 Quaker oats + 2 Quaker true delights + 4 Quaker granola bars - $17.00 (-$5.00 for the buy 10 get $5.00 off, -$1.25 off 2 Quaker oats, -2 $1.00 off 2 True delights, -2 $.75 off 2 granola bars) = $7.25

Net OOP: $30.47

Then I got home and realized that I didn't buy any milk and we were totally out, and I didn't have as many diapers as I thought. So I made the (HUGE) mistake of going to Walmart. I hate that place for many reasons - which I will not go into right now. What made me so angry this time is that everything I purchased rang up wrong. In their favor. I got (not pictured)

3 gallons milk - $6.51 (these were $2.17 each, but rang up at $2.25, so I told the cashier and he fixed it.)

1 pkg diapers - $5.88 (what made me mad is that these were supposed to be $5.74 and I didn't catch that!)

Net OOP: $13.14

Anyway, that's it. I hope next week is better...how did you do this week?

Works for me Wednesday - Cleaning Tip Edition

2009-10-07T06:00:00.001-06:00

This week the "theme" for Works for me Wednesday is cleaning tips.

Let's just say I am not a fan of cleaning.

I try to find as many shortcuts as possible.

Here are a few shortcuts that work for me (from the archives):

The Laundry Basket Solution

Enjoy!

Menu Plan Monday - October 5-11

2009-10-05T06:00:00.000-06:00

October is upon us and I have been in a baking frenzy. There is just something about the cold weather and the innate need to bake. I made THIS delicious bread and I was in heaven. It was so good - and no need to knead it (hee hee)!

Anyway, I'm sure I'll be doing some more baking this week. But for now, here is the menu plan:

Monday - Grilled cheese sandwiches, tomato soup

Tuesday - Hamburger helper, peas

Wednesday - Pork tenderloin, crash hot potatoes, broccoli

Thursday - Spaghetti, garlic toast, green salad

Friday - Spicy roasted chicken legs, baked potatoes, green beans

Saturday - Leftovers

Sunday - Leftovers

For more menu plans go here.

Giveaway Winner!

2009-10-03T09:42:00.002-06:00

Yay! I love giveaways! This morning I used Random.org to choose the winner of this giveaway: Number 5 was Beth who said:

Congratulation's Beth - I hope you and your family enjoy the prize pack! Thanks again to My Blog Spark for providing this fun giveaway!

Last chance to Enter my Giveaway

2009-10-02T20:32:00.003-06:00

Only 12 more hours to enter my AWESOME giveaway - check out the details HERE!

**UPDATE: This giveaway has now ended.

Frugal Friday - Frugal Decorating

2009-10-02T06:00:00.000-06:00

Last week or so I asked for some ideas and/or advice on cheap decorating. Sometimes I just get sick of the way things look and am itching for a change. On of the comments came from my flesh and blood (as opposed to Internet :)) friend Elisa. She said:

Some designer on Oprah said to go "shopping" in your house. Go from room to room and browse the pieces in your house and pick up the ones you like. Then take the pieces and put them in other rooms or move them from the shelf that they've been on for 10 years

That is exactly what I did...well sort of. I needed somewhere to put these pieces. I purchased an unfinished shelf from Michael's for $7.49, painted it, then added the pieces from around my house.

The funny thing is, these things were all in different places and/or in storage, but they totally match on this shelf! I love it!

I guess the point is that if you purchased something at one point, you probably still like it. Switching, changing, and rearranging could be just the thing you need for a "new" look!

Frugal Friday is hosted each week on Life as Mom - go check it out for some more frugal ideas!

Weekly Shopping Trip - and underbudget!

2009-10-01T20:39:00.005-06:00

I've been pretty good at sticking to the budget - or at least very close for the past several weeks. This week I was underbudget by $.90 - woo hoo! It feels pretty dang good. I was happy to get in on some great deals at Fred Meyer: I lost my receipt and I looked everywhere so I am going to attempt to do this from memory...I know for a fact the total was $38.50 because it was an evenish amount. Here we go:

2 FM Butter - $2.50 (w/in ad coupon)

2 FM cheese - $7.98

2 FM chocolate milk - $2.00 (w/in ad coupon)

2 FM OJ - $2.00 (w/in ad coupon)

4 Kraft Singles - $5.00 (w/in ad coupon)

6 Yoplait yogurt - $3.00 (-1 $.40 off 6 coupon) = $2.60

2 All detergent - $5.98 (-2 $1.00 off coupons) = $3.98

3 bunches of broccoli - ??? I just know it was $.68/lb

1 pork tenderloin - $2.99 (clearanced)

1 bunch of chicken legs - $2.87 (clearanced)

1 pkg round steak - $2.94 (clearanced)

Net OOP: $38.50

Next I went to Winco. I just looked at the FM ad to get the prices of the stuff I bought and saw that I could have purchased the 18 ct. eggs for less at FM. I hate it when I do that. Anyway...

18 ct. eggs - $1.74

bulk bay leaves - $.04

bulk nutmeg - $.18

bulk cloves - $.12

3 gallons milk - $5.94

5# red potatoes - $1.98

Net OOP: $10.60

I'm pretty happy with how this turned out (other than the egg thing). How did you do this week? Check out some other trips HERE and HERE.

Favorite Blog/Site of the Week - Mint.com

2009-10-01T06:00:00.000-06:00

Have you checked out Mint.com yet? Holy cow - it is the coolest thing ever. I literally just heard about it and I can't believe I had never heard of this before. First of all it is FREE.

It is a FREE software/website that keeps track of all of your finances - spending, net worth, etc. It automatically downloads your transactions and categorizes them for you. It helps you set up a budget and allows you to track it. In fact, you can set up all sorts of charts and graphs for your money and it will recommend ways and/or accounts that could help you save money.

Mint.com is way cool! What are you waiting for? Check it out!

Works for me Wednesday - Pantry Organization

2009-09-30T06:00:00.000-06:00

Do you ever wonder what to do with all of your "packets" of stuff for the pantry? Jello boxes? Koolaid envelopes? I saw this idea on another blog (I can't remember which one, it was forever ago - sorry!) and I love it!

This is an over the door shoe organizer. The clear pockets are perfect because you can see everything. The size is perfect because it comfortably fits 2 boxes of jello or several taco seasoning packets.

I got this for about $7.50 at a 50% off sale it is so worth it! This storage solution works for me!

Check out more great Works for me Wednesday ideas at We are THAT Family!

Restaurant.com Discount Offer

2009-09-29T21:09:00.002-06:00

Have you checked out Restaurant.com yet? It is a fun site where you can get a $25.00 gift certificate to local restaurants for $10.00. Periodically they run great promos where you can get a % off. Right now you can get 80% off - that means you can get a $25.00 gift certificate for $2.00!

Usually you must spend a certain amount and an 18% gratuity is added to your ticket, but that's it. This is a great way to try new places or enjoy your current favorites.

Some of my local favorites are:

Carino's
Baja Fresh
Fiesta Guadalajara
Pizza Pipeline

It seems like more new restaurants are added all the time! To save on your next dining out experience click on the picture below and enter promo code CHEF at checkout!

Enjoy!

My New Game Closet

2009-09-29T08:00:00.001-06:00

I have always wanted a game closet in our house. Our house has a large storage room off of the kitchen so the games have always been there. When we wanted to play a game it was always so inconvenient to go dig one out of the storage room. Then I though of a solution. We have this tiny closet in our living room that is supposed to be a coat closet. There were a few coats in it, but we never used the closet. We have a hanging rack by the front door for coats - so I decided that we would convert it into our game closet. My kids had never seen the closet empty before, so they enjoyed playing in it after we cleaned it out. (Do you like how my daughter is wearing dinosaur pajamas? I have never bought her girly pajamas - any that she has are gifts or hand me downs!)We had some old wood laying around in the garage, so my hubby cut it to size for brackets and shelves.

Voila! My game closet. I love it so much! I did have to get rid of 3 games to get them all to fit, but that's fine with me. They were games we hardly ever played.

Now all of our games are at our fingertips...I think family game nights will start happening way more often around here.

Side note...what are some of your favorite board games?

We have some unusual games as favorites:

Pig Mania (pigs as dice, it is so wierd, but so fun!)
Milles Bournes (a french card game all about driving - so fun!)

I don't know if they make either of these anymore - we found them at thrift stores for super cheap.

G-G-G-Giveaway!

2009-09-28T21:17:00.005-06:00

I have always enjoyed Nature Valley granola bars. I love the crunchiness of them - they always seemed more filling and healthy than the chewy granola bars. When My Blog Spark offered me the chance to try Nature Valley's new granola nut clusters I was very excited.

I was very impressed with the all the flavors of the nut clusters - but my favorite were the almond clusters! Yum. The Nature Valley nut clusters make great trail food, great lunchbox food, and great snack food!

Now for the fun part...I get to give away a Nature Valley Prize Pack just like the one pictured above to one lucky reader! It could be you!

Here's how to enter:

Leave a comment - be sure to leave your e-mail address so I can get a hold of you.
Tweet about this giveaway - and leave a comment saying you did so.
Blog about this giveaway on your blog - and leave a comment here saying you did so.
Subscribe to Saving Some Green - and leave a comment here saying you did so (if you are already a subscriber, leave a comment too!).

This giveaway starts now and ends on Saturday, October 3rd at 9:00 a.m. MST. I will e-mail the winner and request a physical address. They will have 48 hours to respond - no response and I will choose a new winner.

What are you waiting for? Enter this giveaway. Right. Now!

Menu Plan Monday - September 28-October 3

2009-09-27T21:00:00.001-06:00

Another week has gone by - I can't believe it! We are almost into October...what happened to 2009? Seriously - it is almost over!

For some reason, I was in a cooking frenzy all weekend, so our fridge is full of leftovers. This is a good thing because Monday and Tuesday I work. When I don't plan ahead the result is fast food, so I'm grateful for the leftovers. I made a (huge) turkey breast for Sunday dinner and we will be enjoying it for most of the week!

Monday - Leftover turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans

Tuesday - More leftovers

Wednesday - Poppy Seed Chicken casserole (with turkey instead!), green beans

Thursday - Pulled pork sandwiches, homemade rolls, jello salad (didn't get to this last week!)

Friday - Chicken and rice soup (with turkey)

Saturday - Hamburger helper, corn

Sunday - Pasta Carbonara, green salad

What's on your menu this week? For other menus check out orgjunkie!

Motivation

2009-09-25T16:32:00.003-06:00

I was feeling a little unmotivated this morning, but I had so much to do. You know those days? I hate them.

Anyway.

I posted a status update on Facebook that said:

Michelle is in need of some motivation...

About an hour later I got back on my computer and checked Facebook and received one response to my request for motivation. My uncle who I honestly don't know very well and have only met a few times in my life left the most uplifting response that truly changed my outlook:

Obviously you have forgotten who you are: The daughter of heroes, the wife of a saint, the mother of miracles, and the friend of multiple admirers. If that doesn't motivate you then think of the magical body you have that has articulating fingers, binocular vision, the heart of a lover, the vision of a friend, and a child of God. I could go on but by now you should be tuned in. Go rock your world!

It made me realize how often I get bogged down with life that I take for granted what a miracle life really is. I am blessed beyond measure. I am all of those things and I have all of those things. I have so much to be grateful for. Reading that truly did change my day. It made me want to be a better person, wife, mother, and friend. My mundane life didn't feel so mundane anymore. I have a purpose. I hope I can pray I can live up to more than a portion of what God have been me with.

From now on when I am feeling down, sad, lonely, unmotivated I will remember these simple and powerful words then I will go rock my world!

FREE Restaurant Copycat Recipes E-Book

2009-09-25T14:20:00.003-06:00

I love to copy restaurant recipes. A few years ago I got this great book called Top Secret Restaurant Recipes and I have enjoyed making some of the things listed like Olive Garden's Fettuccine Alfredo (YUM!). Last year I shared a yummy potato cheese soup copied from Ruby Tuesday from this cookbook.

Right now there is a great E-book now available from Recipe Lion called 27 Secret Restaurant Copycat Recipes. Find out how to make Chili's Boneless Buffalo Wings, Wendy's Frosty, Pizza Hut Pizza Dough and more!

Click HERE to get yours! (You will need to enter your e-mail address (use a junk address!), then click skip to get through the next two pages, then download your FREE book!)

Enjoy!

Weekly Shopping Trip

2009-09-25T08:00:00.000-06:00

When I took a month off from blogging, I felt weird not taking pictures of my groceries. Then I got used to it. Now that I am doing it again, I feel weird again. Anyway, I did find some great deals this week! One super deal was a total accident!

For those of you who have been reading my blog for awhile, my annual goal for his year was $2,600 for groceries or $50.00 per week. This included food, household items, and diapers. If you notice, the word I used above is WAS not IS. Unfortunately, I have not been able to stick to the budget of $50.00 per week. My current total is $2,454.47. That leaves me $145.53 for the next 13 weeks of 2009. That is $11.00 per week. Yeah...not going to happen. I have learned a lot along the way though, and my stockpile is still pretty big. This makes my average for the year about $63/week. This is also way better than my average from last year, which was $118/week.

Now that I got that out of the way...here is my shopping trip:

Walgreen's:1 Glad trash bags - $7.99 (-$1.50 coupon in September savings booklet) - $6.49

2 Scott Bath Tissue - $5.00 (w/in ad coupon)

4 Domino sugar - $3.20 (yes, you read that right - this is 20 pounds of sugar for $3.20. I love clearance! This was the deal I found by accident!

2 Baskin Robbins chewy candies - $.64 (clearance)

Net OOP: $16.24

Then I hit Fred Meyer: 8 Country Oven bread - $10.00 (w/in ad coupon)

2 Cheerios - $3.00 (w/in ad coupon)(2 -$1.00 off coupons) = $1.00

2 Big K Rootbeer - $1.00

1 A&W Rootbeer - $1.69

1 Coke Zero - $1.39

2 FM tuna - $1.00

1 bunch bananas - $1.14

1 Oscar Meyer lunchmeat - $1.79 (marked down from $3.99)

2 Land o' Frost lunchmeat - $5.00 (w/in ad coupon) (-2 $1.00 off coupons) = $3.00

2 Fresh Express salad - $2.50

2 Oscar Meyer bacon - $5.00 (-1.25 off 2 coupon) = $3.75

3 gallons milk - $5.97

2 Bumble Bee Tuna bowls - $4.00 (-2 $1.00 off coupons) = $2.00

1 bunch celery - $.34

Net OOP: $38.95

So my total for the week is $55.19 - not terrible! How did you do this week?

Shopping Day

2009-09-24T08:30:00.002-06:00

My cute son Owen turned 4 this summer is now attending preschool. I am just sitting here wondering where all the time went!

This is a long confusing story, so try to keep up...:)I work two days per week (Monday and Tuesday), and preschool is Tuesday and Thursday. My MIL watches my kids on Monday and Tuesday (it is such a blessing!). I have a great arrangement with her for preschool. Preschool is close to her house and isn't close to mine. She takes him on Tuesday when I am at work, then on Thursday my husband drops him off at her house on the way to work, then takes him to preschool. I just have to pick him up. I get to be all alone with my daughter during that time.

That has been another great blessing. We have turned our Thursdays into our grocery shopping days and it has been so much fun with just the two of us! She will actually stay in the cart, which is great. We also get to go check out stores that we don't live near like Boise Bargain Basket.

Have a great day! We are off for another shopping day!

Works for me Wednesday - Cheap Thrills

2009-09-23T06:00:00.002-06:00

Do you remember going to Chuck E. Cheese as a kid (or Showbiz Pizza - as it was called when I was a kid)? I hardly ever got to go because it was so expensive. Granted, my kids are still very little, but we have found a way to get maximum enjoyment there for a minimum price.

Periodically there are coupons in the paper for discounts on tokens. A few months ago, I picked up 100 tokens for $15.00. This takes them for $.25 each to $.15 each. Because there is no admission price, you don't have to eat to play there (we never do), and 10 games each is plenty for my kids we can go up to 5 times for just $15.00 - or $3.00 for a fun morning.

By the way...I'm not big on crowds - especially at Chuck E. Cheese, so we go around 10:00 and are usually the only ones there! This works for me! Looking for more great Works for me Wednesday ideas? Go to We are THAT Family!

On a mission to redecorate...

2009-09-22T10:00:00.000-06:00

Do you ever just want to light a match and start over?

That is how I feel about my house right now.

I want a new look, but I can't spend much. I wish I were more creative with decorating!

Any ideas or great sites to help me?

FREEbies for the week

2009-09-21T06:00:00.000-06:00

Get some FREE Fall Samples from Quality Health HERE.

Click HERE to print a coupon for FREE Venom Energy Drink.

Click HERE to make your own FREE printable calendars! These could make great gifts!

Get a FREE Financial Education CD from the FDIC called Money Smart for Young Adults HERE.

Potty Training? I feel for you! Get a FREE potty training kit from Pull Ups HERE.

Enjoy!

Menu Plan Monday - September 21-27

2009-09-20T20:00:00.000-06:00

Ahhh...getting back into the swing of things is so good! While I took a one month break from blogging I also took a break from doing a menu plan each week. I still had a general plan, but a plan not written down can sometimes get lost.

So, now I am getting into it and it feels great! I am also very excited for the cooler weather and soups, stews, and yummy comfort foods!

Monday - Taco soup, corn muffins

Tuesday - Spaghetti w/ Italian sausage, garlic toast, sauteed zucchini

Wednesday - BBQ pork sandwiches on homemade rolls, oven roasted potatoes, jello salad

Thursday - Roasted chicken, rolls, green bean casserole, lipton pasta sides

Friday - Pizza, green salad

Saturday - Leftovers

Sunday - Steak, baked potatoes, green salad

Check out orgjunkie for other menu plans this week!

I'm back!

2009-09-19T11:28:00.003-06:00

So has everyone had a chance to make the Creamy Black Bean Dip yet? After all, I did leave it up for about a month!

I decided to take an unscheduled blogging break for many reasons. Mostly I just felt like I have been so worried and focused on my blog and making sure I was posting and neglecting the things that really matter. My husband. My kids. My house. Myself. Now that I have taken this break I think I am different. I think my blog will be different. I think it will be a good thing.

I have some fun and exciting posts to come - and a great giveaway coming. So please stay tuned!

-Michelle

Recipe Swap - Creamy Black Bean Dip

2009-08-21T12:00:00.000-06:00

My mom loaned me a recipe magazine called Taste of Home Potluck - a great magazine full of great recipes! I made this for a family gathering last weekend and it was superb! Here is the recipe:

2 pkgs cream cheese

1 can black beans, rinsed and drained, divided

3/4 c. shredded cheddar cheese

6 green onions, chopped

1 1/2 t. ground cumin

dash cayenne pepper

Topping:

1/4 c. shredded cheddar cheese

2 T. diced fresh tomato

2 T. chopped green onion

In a food processor, cover and process cream cheese until smooth. Add 1/2 of the beans, cover and pulse until blended. Transfer to a bowl; stir in the cheese, onions, cumin, cayenne and remaining beans. (I spread it in a pie plate at this point.) Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.

Just before serving garnish with cheese, tomato, and onion. Serve with tortilla chips.

This is what it looked like before I put the tomatoes, onions, and cheese on top. Doesn't it look like cookies and cream ice cream?

I would also recommend leaving it out for a little while before serving it so the cream cheese can soften.

For more recipes this week check out The Grocery Cart Challenge!

Enjoy!

-Michelle

Frugal Friday - Substitution List

2009-08-20T22:19:00.004-06:00

There are so many times that I run out of something when I am making a recipe. In the past I would run to the store and buy said item. Not anymore with my new frugal ways!

Today I wanted to make these Molten Chocolate Cakes, but I didn't have semi-sweet chocolate squares. I did some Swagbucks searching and found this awesome substitution list. I used 3 T. of cocoa + 1 T. of butter for each square. It worked like a charm. I have totally bookmarked this list. I know it will come in handy for many future baking adventures!

For more Frugal Friday ideas check out Life as Mom!

-Michelle

Reverse Tornado

2009-08-19T17:55:00.003-06:00

I got this picture here.

My husband is so cute. I work full days outside the home on Monday and Tuesday and between that and the weekend, my house usually goes to you know where in a handbasket. Kudos to you moms who work full time outside the home and keep it together! Anyway, Wednesday is my catch up day. My husband never says anything about the house being a mess. I love that about him.

Today he came home from work to a spotless (more or less) house. He said to me - it looks like our house was hit by a reverse tornado! I laughed so hard I cried.

-Michelle

Works for me Wednesday - Shopping List

2009-08-19T06:00:00.003-06:00

In order to save money at the grocery store, mission critical is having a list. I found in the past as I was making my list I would always forget things that we really needed, so I started keeping a magnetic list on my refridgerator.

Now, throughout the week as I run out of something/notice I am low on something I simply add it to this list. Then as I am reviewing the sales flyers, organizing my coupons, and planning my attack I can make sure to include the items on the list.

It works for me!

To find more great Works for Me Wednesdsay ideas go to We are THAT Family!
-Michelle

New Restaurant.com Offer

2009-08-19T00:28:00.002-06:00

There is another great promo from Restaurant.com - use code PALATE to get 70% off! This means you can get a $25.00 gift certificate for $3.00! This is a great deal - see more details about how it works HERE.

This works for any part of the country - just enter your zip code for restaurants in your area.

Enjoy!
-Michelle

Weekly Shopping Trip - the $5.00 budget edition!

2009-08-18T22:11:00.003-06:00

So, I seem to have a problem. I am chronically over budget. My goal is $50.00 per week. My current average is $65.00 per week. Not terrible by any means, but above what I have budgeted. I set a goal for myself to see how far I could stretch $5.00 this week.

Yes, $5.00!

I needed bread, milk, toilet paper, and distilled water. I started the week with a $5.00 catalina for Albertson's and a $5.00 Register Reward from Walgreen's. I wasn't hurting for sure. I knew I could get some or a portion of all of those items with those two coupons that I had. I have been really low on cereal, and I REALLY wanted to get in on the deal Albertson's was having, so I got creative and came up with a pretty dang good scenario. If I do say so myself. And I do! Are you ready...? Here we go!

Albertson's Transaction#1 was:

4 boxes of Post Selects - $10.00 (-$4.00 instant discount - 1 $1.00 off 2 coupon doubled) = $4.00

2 Velveeta shells & cheese cups - $2.00 (-B1G1Free coupon) = $1.00

Used $5.00 catalina - paid $.42 tax + I received a $3.00 catalina for the cereal and a $1.00 catalina for the mac&cheese!

Transaction# 2 was: 4 boxes of Honey Bunches of Oats - $10.00 (-$4.00 instant discount -2 $1.00 off 2 coupons doubled) = $2.00

2 gallons milk(not pictured) - $3.98

Used $3.00 and $1.00 catalina from tran#1

Net OOP: $2.46!

Next I went to Walgreen's:

3 rolls of TP - $1.47

1 Soft Soap Serum - $3.99

Used $5.00 Register Reward

Net OOP: $.79 + I received a $4.00 Register Reward for the Soft Soap!

Transaction#2 was:

3 gallons of distilled water - $2.00 (w/in ad coupon)

1 can olives - $.99 (w/in ad coupon)

3 rolls of TP - $1.47

Used $4.00 RR from Transaction#1

Net OOP: $.73

So for everything you see here, I spent a total of $4.40! I have $.60 left and no bread.

Hmmm...we have been doing okay that past few days without it (we have 3 pieces left!), but I am going to make some bread and or bread items like Pita Pockets, rolls, and bread in my bread machine. I think we will make it until Monday!

Does anyone have any great bread recipes I should try?
-Michelle

See more shopping trips at The Grocery Cart Challenge!

Monthly Financial Check Up

2009-08-18T21:22:00.004-06:00

In January, I set some financial goals for our family. We are getting closer to being 3/4 of the way through the year and I think we are doing pretty well - especially over last year.

Here is the update:

Grocery Spending - My goal for the year is $2,600 or $50.00 per week. This includes food, household items, and diapers. As of today, our total spending is $2,141.42. I have spent 82% of our budget, but we are only 63% of the way through the year. My average has been $65/week. Even though I am chronically over budget, I am happy with this. In 2008 I spent $6,111.87 or $118.00/week, so I have almost cut this in 1/2. I'm still sticking with this goal and am cutting back on my spending were I can. It's all about necessities. I just need to remember that ice cream is not a necessity!

Emergency Fund - My goal was to reach $1,000 by the end of the year. Thank goodness for my credit union! Every two weeks they take $38.46 from my paycheck and deposits it directly into my savings - I currently have $615.62 which is right on track. Woo hoo!

Car Savings - Yeah...about that...my goal was to save $2,500 toward purchasing another car. We were driving a 1996 Honda Accord and a 1986 Jetta. The Jetta died on me and it had been sitting in our driveway since the end of December! We worked it out with the Honda for about six months. During that time I was casually looking for a good deal on a minivan. A great deal landed in our laps and we purchased a 1999 Chrysler Town and Country with only 90,000 miles for a steal - only $4,000! My husband is such a good negotiator, he was able to get $1,800 off of the asking price. We both felt like it was the right time and we got a small loan to pay for it. We are working to get it paid off a.s.a.p! By the way...if you want to buy a Jetta that needs a new fuel pump (we think) send me an e-mail!

Christmas Savings - I have had my credit union pull $20.00 from each paycheck to go to our Christmas Savings. This has worked out great as well. I have been picking up items as I find them for great deals. It is great to have that money set aside!

So, that's it - I think we are doing pretty darn good - not exactly on track, but I am willing to make changes based on our needs/situation.

How are you doing with your financial goals?

-Michelle

Weekly Shopping Trip

2009-08-15T23:00:00.000-06:00

This week I was under budget - YAY! I got some great deals and some fresh produce, so I was happy. Here is the scoop:

Fred Meyer

3 roma tomatoes - $.67 (which is funny because I didn't think the tomatoes in my garden were quite ready yet, the next day I was able to pick two roma tomatoes from my own plant!)

2 heads cauliflower - $2.73

several broccoli crowns - $.92

Green onions - $.50

1 coke zero - $1.39 (used FREE coupon I got from My Coke Rewards)

4 peaches - $1.57

1 cantaloupe - $2.59

1 bag "mojo mix" trail mix - $2.99 (clearanced)

Net OOP: $12.77 Albertson's was also good to me - however - there is some debate about the items in the rebate. I'm still going to send mine in and see what happens. My transactions did generate a rebate slip. Here is what I got:

2 Velveeta cheese cups - $2.00 (used B1G1FREE coupon) = $1.00

1 distilled water - $.99

1 Nilla wafers - $3.00

2 Kraft mayo - $5.00 (-$2.00 coupon) = $3.00

1 Ritz Cracker + 1 pkg wheat thins - $5.00 (used buy Ritz get Wheat thins FREE) = $2.50

1 log? velveeta - $5.99 (-$1.00 off coupon) = $4.99

1 Digiorno flatbread - $2.50 (-$.75 off coupon) = $1.75

1 California Pizza Kitchen - $2.50 (-$1.00 off coupon) = $1.50

1 beef roast - $5.35

2 pkgs ground beef - $5.32

Used my 3 $5.00 catalinas from last week

Net OOP: $16.66 + I got a $5.00 catalina back and may receive a $20.00 rebate!

So my total for the week was $29.43. My total for the year so far is $2137.75. My goal is $2,600.00 for the whole year so that means I only have $462.25 left and there are about 20 weeks left in the year that only give me just over $23.00 to spend each week! YIKES!

So, to even things out my goal/challenge for next week is to spend only $5.00 OOP. With the following needs:

I only have one gallon of milk - so I will need at least 1 gallon this week, maybe two.
We are down to 2 rolls of toilet paper. We use Scott and each roll lasts us about 1 to 1 1/2 days.
I just pulled my last loaf of bread out of the freezer - so I will need to make and/or buy some bread this week.

I have in my arsenal.

Some good Alberson's scenarios to get FREE groceries and/or catalinas back.
a $5.00 register reward my mom gave me because "she always forgets to use them"

Wish me luck. I am going to need it!

-Michelle

I'm a dot com!!

2009-08-14T20:21:00.004-06:00

I am super excited to announce that I have gone DOT COM!

A few months ago I wrote a blog series about my experience called blogging for fun and profit. In order to make money blogging, you have to get your name out there. Sometimes that can be hard when you have to tell people the name of your blog is __________.blogspot.com. If you aren't a blogger, don't regularly read blogs, or don't read every URL when you click on a link - blogspot isn't always an easy thing to remember. I also read Mommy Snack's series Begin to Blog where she suggest to buy a domain name. I'm so glad I did that - first of all It was only $10.00 for a whole year through google - and it was super easy!

If you are a blogger - I highly recommend becoming a "dot com." If you aren't a blogger - please bookmark my new "dot com" address - www.savingsomegreen.com. If you are already a follower or have my blog bookmarked, my former address - www.savingsomegreen.blogspot.com will still take you here.

Now it is much easier to say - check out my blog saving some green DOT COM!
-Michelle

Works for me Wednesday - Scoops!

2009-08-12T06:00:00.001-06:00

One of my favorite kitchen tools is my Pampered Chef scoop (or any scoop of this type will do!). They come in three different sizes and I use them ALL THE TIME! Here are some examples:

It makes perfect cookies!

The small one works great for deviled eggs!

It is perfect for meatballs (you don't have to touch meat!)

It is great for melon balls

Use the big one for pancakes/waffles

I love my using my scoops! It works for me. For more Works for me Wednesday posts check out We are THAT Family.

-Michelle

Johnson's Right@Home - Great FREEbies!

2009-08-11T22:39:00.002-06:00

Click HERE to sign up for Johnson's Right@Home. I love them! I signed up for them several months ago and have received some great FREEbies. Their gift packs are great - I once even received a whole 50 pack of Ziploc bags in the mail!

Check it out!
-Michelle

FREE Stuff!!

2009-08-10T06:00:00.001-06:00

There are some great FREEbies available this week...

Coupons:
$1.25 off Fiber One Yogurt

$1.50 off Pond's Wet Cleansing Towelettes

Samples:
Scope Outlast Mouthwash

Baby formula from Enfamil

Kotex Ultra Overnight Pads

Prilosec OTC Heartburn Relief

Bodycology Hand and Body Lotion

Goodnites Sleep Pants

Carefree and Stayfree Pantyliners

Enjoy!
-Michelle

Menu Plan Monday - August 10-16

2009-08-09T18:46:00.004-06:00

Last week I did pretty darn well with the menu planning. I tried a few new things - the no-fry fried rice was delicious! We also enjoyed the potato bundles, but I had to cut back on the butter and cream. Holy cow - 2 tablespoons per packet was WAYYYY too much for me! So now, on to a new week!

Monday - Baked potato bar with chili, cheese, and sour cream

Tuesday - Apricot chicken (we didn't get to this last week), corn on the cob, rice (Lipton sides)

Wednesday - Creamy Chicken and Green Chile enchiladas, rice

Thursday - Pork roast (we didn't eat this last week), Crash Hot Potatoes, broccoli

Friday - Layered Nacho Bake

Saturday - Leftovers

Sunday - Leftovers

-Michelle

And the winner is...

2009-08-08T12:12:00.005-06:00

I hosted a giveaway this week for Pond's Wet Cleansing Towelettes, read my product review HERE.

I chose a winner using random.org and the winner is...

#9 Emily who said...

I just sent you an e-mail, please send me your address within 48 hours and I'll get those right out to you. If I don't hear from you, I'll choose another winner.

Thanks for everyone who entered - and remember if you didn't win and would like to try these, you can get a $1.50 off coupon HERE.

-Michelle

Weekly Shopping Trip

2009-08-07T21:30:00.005-06:00

This week was a really good week - other than the fact that I am over budget yet again! My goal is to spend only $50.00/week or $2,600/year for groceries. For me this includes food, toiletries, household cleaning products, and diapers/wipes. So far this year I have spent $2108.32 or an average of about $66/week. The good news is that my refrigerator and freezer are both full to overflowing and my stockpile is very well stocked. So I should be able to cut back for a few weeks. Stay tuned.

So here is my shopping for this week. I got some seriously great deals and would be under budget but I went to Costco with my dad. Oops - but I only spent $40.00, which is pretty darn good for Costco. I don't have a picture of it, or an exact total (I lost the receipt), but I got:

6 gallons of milk
2 gallons of vinegar
the largest bag of tortilla chips I have ever seen
a bag of pot stickers
a three pack of turkey breast lunch meat
3#s of cream cheese

I think that was it. Hopefully the milk will last more than a few days - my family have been drinking milk like there is no tomorrow!

My first shopping trip of the week was to Albertson's on Tuesday night. I was able to use a total of 7 doublers from three different ads, which made me very happy! Here is how the transaction went.
2 BC Brownie mixes - $4.00 (-.75 off coupon doubled) = $2.50
3 Wishbone dressing - $5.00 (-3 .75 off coupons doubled) = $2.75
2 Best Foods mayo - $5.00 (-2 $.60 off coupons doubled) = 2.60
2 Reese's puff's - $4.00 (-$1.00 off 2 coupon doubled) = $2.00
4 Breyer's ice cream - $12.00 (-$4.00 off coupon) = $8.00

Net OOP: $16.83 + I received $15.00 in catalinas + I received a coupon for a FREE Sobe life water!

Today I went to Fred Meyer and did 2 transactions: Transaction#1
4 Honey Bunches of Oats - $6.68 (-2 $1.00 off 2 coupons) = $4.68

Net OOP: $5.07 + I received a $3.00 catalina for my next purchase!

Transaction#2

4#ish ground pork - $2.89 (clearanced)

1 dole juice - $.99 (clearanced)

1 half&half - $.69 (clearanced)

2 FM orange juice - $2.00 (w/in ad coupon)

2 FM chocolate milk - $2.00 (w/in ad coupon)

4 cobs of fresh corn - $1.00

4 butter - $6.00 (w/in ad coupon)

Used $3.00 off coupon from Transaction#1

Net OOP: $13.51

So I wasn't going to "roll" my catalina from Albertson's because when I was there earlier in the week they didn't have everything I wanted, but I decided to do it anyway and get some "non-necessities" - and another $15.00 in catalinas!

4 Knorr rice sides - $4.00 (-2 $.75 off coupons) = $2.50

1 Sobe life water - $1.49 (used FREE coupon from earlier transaction)

6 chocolate cake mixes - $6.00 (I totally ran out of chocolate cake mixes recently - I have a ton of yellow and carrot cakes, though!)

2 BC brownie mixes - $4.00 (-$.75 off coupon) = $3.25

2 All liquid laundry soap - $7.00 (-2 $1.00 off coupons, doubled) = $3.00

2 BC fruit snacks - $4.00 (-.60 off coupon) = $3.40

2 Chex mix bars - $5.00 (-2 .75 off coupons) = $3.50

Used $15.00 in catalinas from the earlier transaction.

Net OOP: $8.52 + I received $15.00 in catalinas for a future purchase!

So, my total for the week was $83.93 - again overbudget! Ugh, but I still have $15.00 in catalinas that I can use at Albertson's - I think I am going get some meat.

How did you do this week?

-Michelle

New Restaurant.com Offer

2009-08-07T08:54:00.003-06:00

Click on the banner to get a great deal with restaurant.com now through August 13th! Use promo code PORTION to get 80% off - that means a $25.00 gift certificate for $2.00!

Enjoy!
-Michelle

Recipe Swap - Bacon, Eggs, and Rice

2009-08-07T06:00:00.000-06:00

For some reason I had an abundance of leftover rice and I was trying to think of something fun to make with it.

I started rummaging through the fridge and found a few pieces of bacon that were already cooked.

Hmmm...

Then some great memories came flooding back...my dad used to make bacon, eggs, and rice when I was a kid and I loved it. It was always a special treat. I'm sure my dad just sat back and smiled when we all wolfed it down because it is super cheap to make and super easy and a great way to use up leftovers. Win, Win, Win!

So I decided to make it - and it was just as good as I remembered - so now I am going to share it with you.

Bacon, Eggs, and Rice

3-4 pieces of bacon - cooked, and cut into small pieces (you could use leftovers, cook raw bacon then cut it, or cut raw bacon then cook it)

3-4 eggs (or 2 or 5 whatever your preference is!)

2-3 cups cooked rice (again, however much you want!)

Beat eggs, add to a hot skillet. Stir around until partially cooked. Add bacon and rice. Stir until heated through.

Enjoy!
-Michelle

I have to say I love this recipe swap - Gayle at The Grocery Cart Challenge hosts it every week. Please check out the other recipes and share yours too!

Favorite Blog/Site of the Week - Restaurant.com

2009-08-06T06:00:00.001-06:00

This week I had my first experience with Restaurant.com - I am now a believer.

Basically, this is how it works:

You enter your zip code and locate Restaurant.com restaurant new you.

You purchase a $25.00 gift certificate from Restaurant.com for $10.00 (or whatever amount is offered)

Be sure to review the stipulations - (i.e. spending requirements) to make sure you will be getting a good deal.

You print the certificate and take it to the restaurant.

They will take $25.00 (or whatever you purchased) off of your purchase price.

I went to Carino's in Meridian. The stipulations for their certificate is you must spend $35 (before the Gift Certificate) and they automatically add the 18% tip into your total (so you can't only tip on the amount you spent - not the check total). We really enjoyed it, it ended up being a great deal for our whole family.

Periodically, Restaurant.com will offer discounts on the $10.00 gift certificates. Last month they offered 80%! Today only you can get your gift certificates for 50% off - or a $25.00 gift certificate for $5.00 (still awesome)! When you make your purchase and go to check out use promo code SUPPER and your 50% off will automatically be calculated. Woo hoo!

If you enjoy Saving Some Green - this is one way you can support my site. I receive a small commission for every purchase that is made through this link. I'll be sure to update with any specials as they offer them.

If you are interested, go check it out HERE and let me know how it worked for you!

Enjoy!

-Michelle

Product Review and GIVEAWAY!

2009-08-05T08:14:00.011-06:00

This past week I was sent a packet of Pond's Wet Cleansing Towelettes to try out and review on Saving Some Green (including an additional packet to give away - details on that later in this post!).

There are three different varieties of Pond's Wet Cleansing Towelettes - Original, Micro Dermabrasion, and Age Defying. I received Original.

First of all, I always think of Pond's when I think of cold cream and make up remover. It is kind of like Kleenex - ever type of facial tissue is a Kleenex in my mind - every cold cream is Pond's.

For several reasons, I really liked these towelettes:

Convenience - they come in a compact plastic package with a sticky flap that can open and close to keep the towelettes moist. You can easily keep these in your purse or diaper bag. You also, obviously use these then throw them away - so you don't have to deal with a washcloth when washing your face.

Quality - With many facial cleansing wipes I have used in the past, they are thin and easily dry out. I liked that these were think and soft. You could also see "suds" on the towelette as soon as you pull it out.

I used these during a few different circumstances to test how they work in different situations.

I first used them when I was all hot and sweaty from working in the yard. Afterward I felt very refreshed. The wipe was sooooooooooooo dirty afterward.

I also used it to wash my face before I went to bed. It was great at removing make up my face felt really soft when I woke up in the morning.

I also used it to wash my face first thing in the morning - again it was refreshing and my face felt soft and clean.

So - do you want to try some Pond's Wet Cleansing Towelettes? Let's have a giveaway! There are several ways to enter:

Leave a comment on this post (please make sure there is a way for me to contact you if you win!)

Subscribe to Saving Some Green - then leave a comment that you did (or that you are a current subscriber!)

Follow me on Twitter - then leave a comment that you did (or that you are already a follower!)

This giveaway will be open until Saturday at noon - then I will close comments and choose a winner through random.org. This giveaway is open to US residents only. I will e-mail the winner on Saturday and they will have 48 hours to respond, if I don't get a response I'll choose another winner.

So what if you really, really, really want some Pond's Wet Cleansing Towelettes, but you don't win?

They are on sale this week at Walgreen's and along with some other products are offering a Register Reward - see all the details HERE!

You can also get a printable coupon for $1.50 off HERE.

Check it out - and good luck with the giveaway! I hope you win!

-Michelle

Works for me Wednesday - Uses for Pork Roast

2009-08-05T06:00:00.002-06:00

Up until a few months ago, I had never really been a fan of pork roast. Mostly I hadn't really ever had it and I didn't really know how to use it. I became a big fan when I was finding it at Winco for around $1.50/lb and a couple of weeks ago I even found it for $1.28/lb! I found out that I like pork roast and enjoy the versatility it offers.

When I make a pork roast, initially I cook it in the crock pot then I love getting creative with the leftovers.

To cook it in the crock pot:

Place the pork roast in the crock pot
Add 1 T. vinegar and 1 T. worcestershire sauce to a measuring cup and fill the rest with water.
Pour mixture over pork roast.
Sprinkle pork roast with your favorite seasoning. For us it is Montreal Steak Seasoning - we love this. We got one of the huge honkin' ones from Costco a few years ago and we are slowly but surely working our way through it. If you haven't tried it before, you should.
Cook on low for 8ish hours.

We eat it this way the first night - it basically just shreds apart.

For leftovers I have tried:

Making my quesadillas replacing the chicken with pork.
Shredding then adding BBQ sauce (which there is a lot of in my stockpile!), serve in a burrito or on a bun
When it started to get a bit dry, I once shredded it and added mayonnaise and made a sandwich out of it (like a tuna sandwich) it was delicious.

I must say, I love the frugality and versatility of pork roasts - it works for me! We are THAT Family has some other great Works for me Wednesday ideas HERE. This week the theme is back to school ideas...this doesn't apply to me yet...hence the Pork Roast Post!

-Michelle

FREE Stuff!!

2009-08-03T08:00:00.001-06:00

There are some great FREEbies available this week! Get yours before they are gone!

I always find great FREEbies on Absurdly Cool Freebies - here are just a few that I was interested in:

Get a FREE sample of Honey Nut Cheerios plus $1.00 off coupon HERE.

Get 2 FREE tacos at Jack in the Box on Tuesday, August 4th click HERE.

Other great FREEbies:

Get a FREE sample of Enfamil baby formula HERE.

Crafty? Sign up for Free Crafts Newsletter and receive a FREE e-book HERE!

Planning a trip? Receive FREE travel information from FREE Travel Guides HERE.

Get your FREE summer sample pack from Quality Health HERE.

Get your FREE sample of Kotex Overnight HERE.

Get your FREE sample of Prilosec OTC (heartburn relief) HERE.

Enjoy!
-Michelle

Menu Plan Monday - August 3-9

2009-08-02T13:47:00.003-06:00

I can always tell the weeks that I don't plan a menu. I wander around the kitchen and the pantry looking for something to cook. Last week was one of those weeks and I totally regret it! I need to be better at planning a menu each week and sticking to it! So here we go:

Monday: Hot roast beef sandwiches, cucumber, fried zucchini strings (yes - our garden is starting to produce, we have picked 4 so far!)

Tuesday: Spaghetti, sauteed zucchini, garlic toast

Wednesday: Polish sausage in Ginger Sesame BBQ sauce, no-fry fried rice

Thursday: Apricot chicken, baked red potatoes (in the microwave!), green beans

Friday: Dinner with friends, I am bringing something - haven't been assigned yet!

Saturday: BBQ and pool party with friends - not sure what (if anything) we have to bring

Sunday: Pork roast, potato bundles, peas

How's your week looking? Be sure to check out The Happy Housewife who is hosting Menu Plan Monday this week!

-Michelle

Weekly Shopping Trip - and finding a new gem!

2009-08-02T12:59:00.006-06:00

For some reason I ended up shopping a lot this week on several different days. I didn't get pics of everything...but I think you all know what spaghetti sauce looks like!

Long story short I am over budget. I am happy with what I bought, but I need to cut back if I am going to reach my $2,600/year goal. I just have to. However, I got an insert from Albertson's in the paper for a catalina that starts today, so I really want to stock up on this stuff while I can get it for nothing! (Spend $30 get a $15.00 catalina for your next shopping trip - it is General Mills/Betty Crocker/Lipton, etc. - all stuff I use all the time!)

Anyway, here are the trips for the last week and the breakdown.

Wonder Bakery Outlet:

I'm not sure on the individual prices, but the total here was $8.64.

Then I went to Fred Meyer (use your imagination)

8 cans Classico spaghetti sauce $12.00 (w/ in ad coupon) - this isn't the greatest deal on the planet, but we LOVE this spaghetti sauce and I never see it below $2.00. At $1.50 each, I wanted to stock up!

1 cantaloupe - $2.00

4 bottles Root Beer - $2.00

1 cold diet coke - $1.69

Net OOP: $18.22

For you locals - did you know that Honk's $1.00 store on Cole/Ustick sells everything for $.88 on Tuesdays? It is a fact! I don't usually go there, but I happened to be there on Tuesday so I stopped. I found some great stuff, but was excited that they had some food stuff that was a good deal. I got (again, use your imagination):

1 bag of 6 sourdough rolls

1 bag of Orowheat wheat hamburger buns

4 cans of spaghetti sauce (I know what you are thinking, but the Del Monte garlic and onion is our second favorite, and $.88 is a good deal!)

Net OOP: $5.60

Then I discovered a hidden gem of a store (for all you locals!) on Broadway (between Linden and Boise Ave) called Boise Bargain Basket. I was a bit skeptical because it looks kind of trendy, like the Boise Co-op and I thought their brand of bargain may not be my brand of bargain. But I was pleasantly surprised.

They have close-outs and scratch and dented items for really cheap. Some items were a bit overpriced, but as you will see I got some great deals. Their produce selection is small, but very reasonably priced.

I got all this stuff for $15.35! I was pretty impressed. Here is the breakdown:

2 loaves Classic white bread - $2.76 (this is good hearty white bread!)
2 pkgs Hidden Valley ranch dip - $.50
2 cantaloupes - $3.56
2 boxes of Honey Smacks - $3.32
5 individual bags of doritos - $1.00
1 pkg of muffin cups - $.48
4 cans of green chilies - $1.00
1 5# bag of potatoes - $.88
1 bag of Swedish Fish (yum!) and sour patch kids (yum!) - $.98

Net OOP: $15.35

IF I had stopped there (like I was planning to) I would have been under budget. HOORAY! But we ran out of milk, sugar, eggs, shortening, and butter (I was cooking for a bake sale!) So I had to go to Winco and I found a few "necessities." I am such a bad girl.

1 10# bag of sugar - $4.44
2 8ct package of Yoplait - $2.98 ($.37 each!)
2 pkgs butter - $3.92
5 dozen eggs - $3.96
2 gallons milk - $3.96
2 boxes Post Shredded Wheat - $4.96 (- $1.00 off 2 coupon) = $3.96 (there is a story here, my husband wants better cereal than what we have. I told him we should wait for a sale and he didn't agree :), funny thing - Fred Meyer has a great sale this week (3 for $5.00) on the same stuff, so I'll stock up!)
1 box Kellogg's Corn Pops (they are in there somewhere!) - $1.48
1 box Kellogg's Corn Flakes - $1.48
1 Breyer's ice cream - $2.78
2 whipped topping - $1.48
4 candy bars - $2.32 (-2 $1.00 off 2 coupons) = $.32
1 M&M peanut (not pictured) = $.48 (used FREE coupon) = FREE
1 shortening - $3.12
2# roast beef - $5.99 (another request of the hubs)
1 4# strawberries - $5.98
2.5#ish bananas - $1.12

Net OOP: $50.02 - yes, my budget for a whole week! Ugh!!!!!

Let's just say in the next few weeks, I'll be doing some "challenges" like my $100.00 budget mission I did last year. Stay tuned!

-Michelle

Yard Salin' and Givin' Back

2009-07-31T19:30:00.000-06:00

Tomorrow is the big day for the Pay it Forward yard sale hosted by the gals at Fabulessly Frugal that I posted abou HERE and HERE. For the past few days I have been helping out with sorting all the donations - and there were a lot - and baking. If you want to try some of my Grandma's Famous Snickerdoodles - you better stop by for the bake sale!

Now that all the dontations are collected and sorted and the baking is (probably) done - now all that is needed are shoppers! Please stop by the sale and say hi - and pick up a few things too!

Get all the details HERE.

-Michelle

Recipe Swap - Busy Day Ham Bake

2009-07-31T14:00:00.000-06:00

I made this last week and promised to do a post if it was good. IT WAS GOOD! I had to improvise a little bit because I didn't have everything on hand to make it, but I'm sure the original was just as good as my improvisation!

Original Recipe - Busy Day Ham Bake (Taste of Home's 2002 Quick Cooking Annual Recipes page 144 - I got this at a yard sale for $.50 - I use it all the time!)

1 can condensed cheddar cheese soup, undiluted
1 10 oz. pkg frozen chopped broccoli, thawed
1 c. cooked rice
1 c. cubed fully cooked ham
1/4 c. sour cream
1/4 c. mayonnaise
1/4 c. dry bread crumbs
1 T. butter or margarine, melted

In a large bowl, combine the first six ingredients. Transfer to a greased 1 1/2 quart baking dish. Toss bread crumbs in butter, sprinkle over the top. Bake, uncovered at 350 for 30 minutes or until heated through.

My version - Busy Day Ham Bake

1 can cream of mushroom soup (I didn't have cheddar cheese soup)
1 12 oz. pkg frozen chopped broccoli, thawed
1 c. cooked rice (I had this already cooked and in the freezer! Try it some time!)
1 c. cubed fully cooked ham
1/4 c. sour cream
1/4 c. mayonnaise
1/4 c. dry bread crumbs
1 T. butter or margarine, melted
shredded mozzarella cheese

I followed the directions above except sprinkled cheese on top, then the bread crumbs.

It was good and so creamy.

Enjoy!

For more recipes this week check out The Grocery Cart Challenge!
-Michelle

Happy Blogiversary to Me!!

2009-07-30T00:35:00.006-06:00

I can't even believe this...but it has been a year since I started Saving Some Green! What a year it has been! Here are some of the highlights of the past year:

I have "met" some really great bloggers and readers through blogging!

I have enjoyed the accountability that blogging provides. It helps me stay (relatively) within my budget!

I now take pictures of my food so I can post it online. Somehow, it doesn't seem weird anymore - even to my family!

I have enjoyed sharing the ups and downs of my life with all of you!

I have made a few bucks!

I have received a TON of FREE Stuff!!

I have found my niche in the money saving arena - I'm not obsessed with getting every deal and I love that I am okay with that!

Not only that, but the last year has brought a lot of joy to my non-blogging life. I just surpassed going from working full-time outside the home to working only part-time two days per week. I started blogging as a way to fill up all the time I seemed to have when I was home. Now I can't believe I thought I had so much free time!

This year it has also been fun to see my husband transition into our "new" lives together. Instead of the weekends being rush, rush, rush we have enjoyed doing family activities together. I still don't think he is used to having dinner on the table when he gets home (almost) every day!

In the past year, my kids have grown so much! They have gone from this:

To this:

Sometimes it makes me sad that they are so grown up! We would also love to add to our family - and we are leaving that in the Lord's hands. I'm so thankful for my precious family!

Thanks to all of you for helping to make this a great year in my life and I look forward to many more!

-Michelle

Amazing Coupon Database

2009-07-25T10:21:00.006-06:00

The Krazy Coupon Lady is a local Idaho blogger with a great coupon/deal website. She has taken things a step further to make things easier for all of us with her new Internet Printable Coupon Database. It is in alphabetical order by brand and I swear it has every printable coupon available anywhere!

Go HERE to check it out - then bookmark it (I'll also be adding it to my sidebar)! I have a feeling you will be using it all the time!

Thanks Krazy Coupon Lady for putting this together and maintaining it!

-Michelle

Frugal Friday - Putting the Word Out 2.0

2009-07-24T13:08:00.004-06:00

A concept I learned from Amy Dacyczyn from the Tightwad Gazette (see my side bar if you don't own this book - it is worth EVERY PENNY!) was the concept of putting the word out. I have a lot of success with this (read some previous posts HERE).

I recently realized/discovered/thought about another great way to put the word out. Through the internet, especially Facebook, Twitter, and Blogging!

I have around 100 friends on Facebook - imagine the possibilities. I share a need with 100 people through my status update, one person (or some of the people they know) is bound to be able to fill that need! This is an exchange between me and my Aunt Judy about a need that she posted this morning.
Think of the time that she saved by not calling everyone she knows to try and find a high chair. I'm sure also that she wouldn't have thought of asking me because my baby that age where she could go either way - high chair or booster.

Try it - put the word out (digitally) and see what you end up with!

Check out more Frugal Friday ideas on Life as Mom!

-Michelle

Weekly Shopping Trip

2009-07-24T09:12:00.003-06:00

It has been awhile since I posted a shopping trip. This doesn't mean I haven't been shopping. It just means that things were way too crazy and I didn't get around to it etc., etc., etc!

Just an update for the year...YTD I have spent $1,928.56. My goal for the year is $2,600.00 or $50.00 per week for groceries (food, household items, and diapers). I am a little bit over this budget (my average has been $64/week), however, I am still happy with my spending. Last year, I spent more than $6,000 for the year!

With that, I spent $48.52 at Winco, got quite a few items, and used no coupons. This picture looks like a big mess because I mostly got produce and bulk foods items, so a lot of bags! Here is what I got:

4 gallons Milk - $6.72 ($1.68 each!)

2.5#ish grapes - $2.48

bulk Parmesan cheese - $1.59

1 pint heavy cream - $1.43

2.9# bananas - $1.38

1 artichoke - $.68

2 2# blocks cheese - $7.96

5# red potatoes - $2.98

1 Breyer's ice cream - $2.78

1 wedge Parmesan cheese - $2.39

bulk Fetuccine noodles - $.94

bulk Great Northern Beans - $1.01

bulk cocoa - $3.13

3#ish onions - $1.62

Pork roasts - $8.68 ( I think there are about 4-5 boneless pork roasts in this big bag - it was $1.28/lb! Score!)

Net OOP: $48.52

About the bag of ice...as I was walking out of the store, a gal offerred me this 1/2 bag of ice that she couldn't fit in her cooler. Who am I to turn down a freebie? I'll figure out a use for it.

How about you? How did you do this week?

-Michelle

Recipe Swap - A Successful Experiment

2009-07-24T06:00:00.000-06:00

For dinner earlier this week, I wanted to make some roasted red potatoes. I happened to also have a squash and a zucchini from our garden that was ready (YAY!). So I decided to roast them all together. The results were YUMMY! Here is how I did it:

4-6 red potatoes, cut into chunks
1 medium onion, cut into thin wedges and separate
1 medium zucchini, cut into chunks
1 medium squash, cut into chunks

Put all ingredients into a large bowl, add 2ish tablespoons of olive oil and some salt and pepper. Toss around to make sure everything is coated.

Place on large cookie sheet in a single layer and cook at 400 for about 35-40 minutes.

Enjoy! For more recipes - check out The Grocery Cart Challenge!
-Michelle

Favorite Blog/Site of the Week - Tasty Kitchen

2009-07-23T06:00:00.004-06:00

A few months ago a reader left a comment about how I might like The Pioneer Woman's cooking blog. Not only did I like it...I LOVED IT! I have enjoyed the recipes, the humor, and have started reading The Pioneer Woman's other blogs.

She just recently started a new recipe site for sharing recipes and it is WAY COOL! It is called Tasty Kitchen. What is even cooler than that is that she is choosing recipes from the site and making them on her cooking blog. Right now she is on a Zucchini kick!

Seriously, this is a way fun site that I highly recommend.

What are you waiting for? Check it out HERE.

-Michelle

Pay it Forward Yard Sale Details

2009-07-22T06:00:00.001-06:00

A few days ago I posted about this fundraiser yard sale hosted by the awesome gals at Fabulessly Frugal.

They have worked out a lot of the details (location, drop off locations, dates, times, needs, etc.) and you can find them HERE. They are going to need a lot of volunteers and donations to really make this successful! There is also a link for cash donations for those outside the Treasure Valley. Let's all pitch in if we can/where we can!

For my local pals...I'm getting involved and would be happy to arrange to pick up your donations up for you until the 29th. If you would like to donate baked goods to the yard sale I can arrange to pick those up before the day of the sale. Please call or e-mail me!

Don't forget to get all the details so you can come and SHOP at this sale too! See, everyone can benefit from this!

Thanks again for your support!

-Michelle

Tweet! Tweet!

2009-07-21T22:56:00.005-06:00

Okay, so maybe I am the last blogger on the planet to sign up for Twitter...but I finally did it! I'd love some followers...what do ya say?

Click HERE to follow me! Send me an e-mail or leave a comment and I'll follow you too!

I am SUPER new to this(and feeling pretty dorky!)...is anyone a PRO-TWEETER that can give me some advice?

-Michelle

p.s. click HERE to get some cute FREE Twitter buttons for your blog!

The last can of soup...

2009-07-21T12:46:00.002-06:00

Last year in September I bought a TON of soup from Albertson's on a great sale. I was sad to see that I pulled out the last can of Cream of Chicken soup to make for dinner tonight!

I still have quite a bit of Cream of Mushroom and Tomato, but I'm hoping for another great sale in September...I know to buy more chicken and less mushroom!

-Michelle

What it is all about!

2009-07-20T19:48:00.004-06:00

Calling all locals!

I'm talkin' about Boise, Idaho (and the surrounding area).

Do you ever want to help those in need but don't know where to start?

The great gals over at Fabulessly Frugal not only know where to start - they know how to do it - and they need your help! Do you want to Pay it Forward?

I love this movie!

Here's the scoop... on Saturday, August 1st they will be having Pay It Forward Garage Sale & Bake sale to help a wonderful, caring, giving person in our own community who is in need. Rather than asking for cash donations (which a lot of us don't have right now!) they are asking for your stuff to sell. I know you all have stuff. I have stuff, and I'm going to donate it!

Check out the details HERE.

Thanks for your help!

-Michelle

FREE Stuff!!

2009-07-20T08:00:00.001-06:00

Want some FREE stuff?? HuH? Do Ya?

Okay! I hope you enjoy the FREEbies available this week:

Sign up HERE to receive a FREE pedometer from Halton Hikes.

Fave Crafts is offering a FREE cheap and easy crafts E-book HERE and a FREE gardening E-book HERE.

Get your FREE sample of Kotex Overnight Pads HERE.

Get a FREE sample of Prilosec OTC Heartburn Relief HERE.

Walmart offers the BEST FREE samples! Click HERE to see what is available now! (Platex Sport, Viva Paper Towels, Goodnites Underpants to name a few!)

Enjoy!

-Michelle

Menu Plan Monday - July 20-26

2009-07-19T23:27:00.004-06:00

Is anyone else wondering what happened to July? It is almost over! I am getting back into the swing of blogging after about a week off. I needed the break, but not planning my menu wreaked some serious havoc on my life! Never again! I love this planning thing too much - even though there are plenty of weeks I don't stick to it. It helps so much.

Here is the plan for this week:

Monday - Turkey sandwiches, pasta salad

Tuesday - Quick creamy Italian chicken (a version of this, but on the stove with cooked cubed chicken breast - I think it will turn out fine!), pasta, broccoli

Wednesday - Pork ribs in BBQ sauce, red potatoes, zucchini (I have some in my garden that are almost ready!)

Thursday - Busy Day Ham Bake (I'm trying a new recipe, so I'll post it on the Recipe Swap if it is any good!), rolls

Friday - Leftovers

Saturday - Hamburger helper, green beans

Sunday - Chicken Crescent Bundles, veggies

There you have it. I think it will be a pretty good week! Want to see some more menus? Visit Orgjunkie!

-Michelle

Recipe Swap - My Favorite Green Salad

2009-07-17T22:25:00.002-06:00

Yum, yum, yum, yum, yum, yum...I love this salad with all my heart and soul. My mouth is watering as I write this! I combined what I love from the Olive Garden salad with what I love from the Smoky Mountain Pizza & Pasta(a local Boise gem) salad.

Here is what is in it...adjust the amount to what you and your family like:

Pre-bagged romaine lettuce salad
Olives (I like to slice them in 1/2)
Tomato
Thinly sliced red onion (YUM!)
Feta Cheese

I like to serve this with Cesar dressing, Italian dressing, or Ken's Greek dressing (YUM!).

Have I mentioned that I LOVE this salad? I hope you do too!

Enjoy!

-Michelle

Freezer Cooking - Part Five - Resources

2009-07-17T18:00:00.000-06:00

This is my 5th and final article on my series on Freezer Cooking. Check out the last 4 articles HERE. This week I'd like to talk about Resources.

So you are all jazzed about freezer cooking...where do you get the recipes?

Swagbucks or Google it! You'd be amazed at how many links will come up!

Frozen Assets: how to cook for a day and eat for a month by Deborah Taylor-Hough (check the I Recommend section in my sidebar)

The Freezer Cooking Manual from 30 Day Gourmet – A Month of Meals Made Easy by Nanci Slagle (check the I Recommend section in my sidebar) I LOVE this book!!!!!

The 30 Day Gourmet Website

Dinner's In the Freezer

What about you? Where do you get your Freezer Cooking recipes?

I hope you enjoyed this series on Freezer Cooking as much as I enjoy doing it!

-Michelle

A break...

2009-07-15T17:40:00.002-06:00

It seems like my life has been a bit crazy the last few weeks.

I just realized it has been almost a week since my last post. Apparently, blogging has been the last thing on my mind!

I hope to get back in the swing of things in the next few days.

Stay tuned!

-Michelle

Favorite Blog/Site of the Week - Absurdly Cool Freebies

2009-07-09T06:00:00.003-06:00

I've got a secret...

Many of the FREEbies that I post here come from this great site called Absurdly Cool Freebies. I was approached by the site owner several months about to check out the site and I shared some info about it in previous posts.

I love this site, basically it searches the web for FREEbies all day then posts the links for anyone to see. Most of the FREEbies are great and don't require complicated sign ups, etc.

Go check out Absurdly Cool Freebies HERE and find some GREAT FREEbies for yourself!

Enjoy!
-Michelle

Freezer Meals - Part Four - Other Modifications

2009-07-07T06:00:00.005-06:00

This is part four in my blog series on Freezer Cooking. Read the rest of the series HERE.

This week I am sharing some ideas about what you can and can't freeze and other modifications you should make when considering freezer cooking.

1. Walk up and down the frozen food aisle and you can see most things can be frozen! Don’t be afraid to try new things. Chances are many of the recipes that you currently make can be frozen!

2. Mayonnaise, sour cream, cream cheese, gravies, and other sauces alone will change consistency. They can be mixed with other ingredients with great success.

3. Cooked potatoes don’t freeze well in soups – although I have frozen twice baked potatoes and potato skins with great success. YUM!

4. Remember you can make more than just main dishes – freeze muffins, biscuits, waffles, pancakes, breakfast burritos for breakfast. You can also freeze cookie dough, cakes, cookies, or other desserts. Just don't freeze cakes that are already frosted, the frosting gets wierd.

What other modifications should I make with freezer meals?

1. Pasta should be undercooked before freezing. If you don’t do this, it can end up being overcooked in the thawing/heating process. I don't know about you, but I am not a fan of soggy noodles!

2. When making foods you would normally bake (i.e. lasagna, casserole, etc.) prepare them up to the point that you would put them in the oven, then freeze– this way they taste fresh when you are ready to cook them.

3. When freezing individual items like cookie dough balls, muffins, twice baked potatoes, or bananas put onto a cookie sheet and freeze then put in a freezer bag. This prevents the items from sticking together and being difficult to remove when ready to use. I love doing this with cookie dough! When I taught this class at church, one of the attendees said that she froze Grands biscuits this way - these can be found for almost nothing from time to time, so that was a great tip!

4. You can take meals from freezer to oven, just increase your cooking time by about ½ and do not put glass dishes directly into the oven.

How about you? Any great tips on Freezer Cooking? Don't forget to come back next week for part 5!

-Michelle

FREE Stuff!!

2009-07-06T06:00:00.001-06:00

Another week is upon us! Here are some great FREEbies available this week:

Did you get your FREE feminine products samples I blogged about last week? Don't fear, they are still available HERE.

Pregnant or Father to be? Check out Baby to Bee HERE for some great FREEbies!

Get a FREE Breastfeeding support kit from Enfamil HERE.

Get a FREE 2009 Entertainment book HERE when you reserve one for 2010. These are still good until November!

Sign up HERE for a FREE Prescription Drug Discount Card.

Get a FREE sample of Prilosec OTC heartburn relief HERE.

Sign up for CVS Photo Center HERE and get 50 FREE prints!

Get a FREE sample of Pull-ups HERE.

Enjoy!
-Michelle

Happy 4th of July!

2009-07-04T09:00:00.001-06:00

I hope that all of you have a Happy and Safe 4th of July! I am so grateful for the freedoms I enjoy:

To worship as I choose
To live where I choose
To work where I choose
To raise my children as I choose
To be able to express my thoughts and opinions as I choose

Now go have a great time and enjoy the holiday with your family, friends, and loved ones!

-Michelle

Recipe Swap - Chocolate Waffle Cookies

2009-07-03T15:00:00.000-06:00

During the summer I am all about recipes that don't heat up my whole kitchen. These chocolate cookies are cooked in the waffle iron, I usually always have the ingredients on hand, and they are delicious!

Chocolate Waffle Cookies

1/2 c. butter
6 T. cocoa
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla
3/4 c. sugar
1 c. flour

Melt butter and cocoa in a small pan. Combine eggs, vanilla, and sugar. Mix well. Add cocoa mixture. Add flour, stir well. Drop by spoonfuls (I use the Pampered Chef small scoop) on a hot waffle iron. Close cover and bake on medium heat for 2 minutes. Frost with chocolate frosting (homemade or store bought). Makes about 2 dozen cookies. YUM!

Go check out some other recipes on The Grocery Cart Challenge's Recipe Swap!

Enjoy!
-Michelle

Frugal Friday - How I Save Money On Meat

2009-07-03T06:00:00.005-06:00

I will admit, I love meat. When I think about what to make for dinner, I usually automatically think MEAT - VEGETABLE - PASTA or POTATO. I think that is the standard. Meat, however, is the most expensive part of the budget. I have found a few tricks that have helped me still enjoy meat in meals while still staying within my budget.

++Eat more chicken and ground beef. My target price for both of these is $1.99 per lb. When I see it for less than this, I stock up. There are many, many great meals that can be made with this type of meat. For a casserole, a little bit goes a long way. Check out my ideas HERE and HERE for uses for chicken and HERE for ground beef.

++Look for markdowns! The two stores I shop the most here in Boise, ID are Fred Meyer and Albertson's. Both of these stores mark down meat at certain times. I have found ground beef for $1.69/lb at Albertson's late at night. Usually on Saturday nights Fred Meyer has a ton of marked down meat. I have found some amazing deals this way. Figure out which stores in your area do markdowns and check them out!

++Shop the sales - then stock up! Watch for sales on other types of meat. I recently purchased pork roasts at Winco (a local grocery store) for $1.48/lb! Shop the sales and stock up!

++Shoot for a meatless meal once or twice per week. If you aren't eating meat, you aren't spending money on it! Read my article on going meatless HERE.

I'm sure there are other ways to save on meat - like buying a whole cow or something, but I don't have the room for that!

How about you? How do you save on meat?

Check out more Frugal Friday posts on Life as Mom!

-Michelle

FREE {ahem} Feminine Products!

2009-07-02T17:21:00.006-06:00

Let me tell ya, I have so many FREE samples of Tampax, Kotex, Always etc. that I haven't had to buy any (ahem) feminine products in a while. When they are available, I jump on them!

Here are some that are available now:

This is a new sample of Kotex that just became available. Get yours HERE.

Get a FREE sample of Platex Gentle Glide HERE.

Get a FREE sample of Carefree Ultra Protection Pantyliners and Stayfree pads HERE.

Get your FREE sample of OB tampons HERE.

Stock up, and enjoy! (I guess :))

-Michelle

Favorite Blog/Site of the Week - BabyNames.com

2009-07-02T06:00:00.001-06:00

This is just for fun, of course. I am not making any announcements! I just love this website to check out the latest names, celebrity names, etc.

BabyNames.com

I checked this site all the time when I was pregnant and we were trying to pick out a name. We had about a MILLION boy names but we couldn't agree on a girl name. It was from this site that I discovered that Faith Hill's real name is Audrey Faith. I like Faith Hill, but I'm not a die-hard fan but I loved the sound of her real name.

I presented the case to my husband, who informed me that we could not have any "feelings" as middle names - no Faith, Hope, Charity...you get the idea. I was bummed, but he did like the name Audrey.

So, when we had our baby girl we named her Audrey Elizabeth. I attribute the idea for her name to Baby Names.com (and Faith Hill)! Go check it out!
-Michelle

Works for me Wednesday - My NEW Label Cloud

2009-07-01T07:54:00.007-06:00

Do you like my new Label Cloud? I have seen these on other blogs and thought they were so cool. It puts all of your tags (topics for your posts) in alphabetical order and the size of the font indicates the number of times you have blogged about it. I love it.

I tried doing this on my own and I hoped there was some blogger widget that would help me do this. There wasn't.

This is why I am in love with searching for things online. You can find LITERALLY anything! If you want to do something, chances are someone else has posted how to do it.

I did a Swagbucks search and came across the step-by-step instructions HERE.

It was easy...and all I had to do was search the web and I found something that works for me!

Go check out We are THAT Family for other Works for me Wednesday ideas!

Now go add a label cloud to your blog!

-Michelle

Freezer Meals - Part Three - Packaging Methods

2009-06-30T12:30:00.001-06:00

This is part 3 in my blog series on Freezer cooking. Check out my other posts here and here.

What is the best way to package freezer meals?

Let's just say it isn't going to be a super frugal way to cooking if you are going out and buying all new dishes to package the stuff, so try to use what you already have. With that in mind, here are the basics...

++The enemy to frozen food is air. Package your foods so there is minimal air.

++You can purchase disposable tin pans. I do not do this because of the unnecessary expense. They are also difficult to reuse and are flimsy to wash. These do work great for meals that you give away. You can usually pick these up at the dollar store.

++Freezer bags (in various ways)

++Foil (line a casserole dish with foil, put your casserole into it, freeze, then wrap in foil. On baking day place back into the casserole dish and bake.) This doesn’t work great for tomato based meals, the acid wears holes in the foil. I picked this one up from Gayle over at The Grocery Cart Challenge. Check out her post HERE. It works GREAT!

++Glad or Ziploc reusable containers.

++Glass Pyrex dishes with lids (no they don't break).

++Don’t forget to label, label, label! Will you know the difference between spaghetti sauce and taco soup if it isn't labeled? I'm just saying.

Come back next week to find out more about freezer cooking and what you can or can't freeze!

Enjoy!

-Michelle

You know you have an obsession when...

2009-06-28T19:39:00.002-06:00

...your son asks you to hurry and take a picture of the groceries...

...so he can eat a banana.

-Michelle

Menu Plan Monday - June 29-July 5

2009-06-27T23:49:00.006-06:00

Last week was a good week. Not because I stuck to my menu plan exactly. Because I didn't. But I did pretty well. I must say, the Bruschetta Chicken Bake was really good. My husband LOVED it - which is great. When I can find a cheap casserole recipe that he really likes, it makes me so happy!

Here is the plan for this week:

Monday: Leftovers

Tuesday: Macaroni and cheese, green beans (I work this day!)

Wednesday: Baked chicken, Herb and parmesan roasted potatoes, vegetable

Thursday: Hamburger Helper, corn

Friday: Pizza night - haven't had one in a awhile!

Saturday: Happy 4th! Potluck BBQ at our house!

Sunday: Leftovers

-Michelle

Check out other menu plans at orgjunkie!

Weekly Shopping Trip

2009-06-27T06:00:00.003-06:00

Not a bad week if I do say so myself. And I do. I'm so glad I was able to get in on the end of the $10.00 catalina deal at Albies. (Buy $25.00 in certain products, get a $10.00 coupon good on your next purchase). Here is what I did:
Most of the coupons I used in this transaction came from a coupon book I signed up for from ConAgra several months ago. They are no longer available.

3 snack pack puddings - $3.00 (-1 $1.00 off 3 coupon) = $2.00

2 microwave popcorn - $3.34 (-1 $1.00 off 2 coupon) = $2.24

1 Hunt's Ketchup - $1.00

2 Wesson canola oil - $6.00

2 Manwich - $2.00 (-1 $.40 off 2 coupon)

2 Smart Water (one pictured, my hubby was drinking one of them) - $2.00

10 Chef Boyardee - $10.00 (-2 $.35 off 2 coupons, 1 $1.00 off 4 coupon) = $8.30

Net OOP: $24.88 + I received a $10.00 coupon good on my next purchase.

I did this transaction on Tuesday night.

2 Coke Zero - $2.78 (-2 FREE coupons I got from My Coke Rewards) = FREE

6 yoplait yogurt - $3.00 (-$.40 off 6 coupon) = $2.60

1 Dove chocolate bar - $.50 (Used FREE coupon) = FREE

2 Gallo hard salami - $6.00 (-2 $.50 off coupons) = $5.00

1 Sara Lee Cheesecake - $4.50 (-$1.00 off coupon) = $3.50

2 Sara Lee Simple Sweets - $6.00 (-2 $1.00 off coupons) = $4.00

2 Ronzone Smart Taste Pastas - $2.50 (-$1.00 off 2 coupon) = $1.50

Received $5.00 off for purchasing 5 SaraLee items (salami was included), used $10.00 catalina from transaction above.

Net OOP: $2.82

My net total for the week was $27.70 - under budget! YAY! This brings my YTD total to $1503.09. My budget for the year is $2,600 or $50.00 per week. I am a bit over for the year, but I am happy with my progress, which is a huge improvement over last year. Last year I spent $6111.87!

How did you do this week?

-Michelle

Favorite Blog/Site of the Week - Linda's Low Carb Recipes

2009-06-25T06:00:00.004-06:00

My hubby's doc told him to cut back on his carbs. If you follow my menu plans at all you can see they are full of carbs! I was looking for some good low carb recipes that I can incorporate into our diet and came across Linda's Low Carb Recipes.

This is a great site filled with low carb alternatives that won't leave you feeling deprived. We tried the Diner "Potatoes" which were like cheesy potatoes using cauliflower instead of potatoes. They weren't bad. I was pleasantly surprised.

If you are looking for a great site for low carb recipes, look no further than Linda's Low Carb Recipes. You won't be sorry!

Enjoy!

-Michelle

Works for me Wednesday - Discover Where I Live

2009-06-24T09:00:00.004-06:00

I have never been a big traveler. Then a married someone who doesn't like to travel. So basically we don't travel. That is just fine with me, but I do like to discover/explore things and have fun. I really love the concept of a "staycation" and discovering where I live.

I am blessed to live in Boise, Idaho where there are tons of fun FREE or inexpensive things to do and see. I was super happy that this weekend in the Idaho Statesman there was an insert called Gems of the Treasure Valley. It listed 69 things to explore within Boise and the surrounding cities in the Treasure Valley, most of them FREE. There were several places I have been meaning to see but forgot about and several places I didn't even know about! I can't wait to start re-discovering where I live! You locals - check it out! Non-locals, look for ways to re-discover where you live!

I love discovering where I live it Works for Me! Find out other fun Works for me Wednesday ideas HERE.

-Michelle

Garden Bounty

2009-06-24T06:00:00.001-06:00

FREE DVD from Fisher Price

2009-06-24T00:33:00.002-06:00

Get a FREE Precious Places DVD from Fisher Price HERE. This is so cute!

Enjoy!

-Michelle

Freezer Meals - Part Two - Methods

2009-06-23T06:00:00.002-06:00

This is the 2nd of a 5-part series on Freezer Cooking. Read part 1 here.

This week I will share some of the methods for freezer cooking. The reality is that there is not one perfect method for freezer cooking. It all depends on your life and your preferences. Don't get overwhelmed! Do what works best for you.

Here are some of the options:

Cook for one day solid and fill up your freezer for the entire month. This usually entails selecting 10-12 recipes and make doubles or triples.

Join (or start) a freezer cooking group where everyone is assigned one or more recipes. The person assigned brings the ingredients to make those dishes, then everyone gets together to prepare the dishes then trades. Everyone pays an equal share based on the number of servings per family.

Join (or start) a freezer cooking group where everyone is assigned a few recipes and brings the prepared/packaged recipes to exchange with others in the group. In other words, they do the cooking at home and bring the packaged labeled meals and everyone exchanges. Again, everyone pays an equal share based on the number of servings per family.

The casual freezer cooker or mini sessions. This is how I do it. When I have time I make several of one item and throw it in the freezer. If I am making a casserole, I make two or three and put one in the freezer. If I find a great sale, I buy a lot and cook like crazy.

Watch the sales on meat – then buy a lot of it and make several meals with that type of meat.

Precook your meat - I love to buy a family pack of ground beef, chicken, Italian sausage, pork or beef roast (shred and freeze) and cook all of it then portion it into freezer bags in the amount I would use for a meal. Check here and here for some ideas on how to use your precooked meat.

There is no right or wrong way to do freezer cooking, just do it!

Come back next week to learn about how to package your freezer meals on a budget.

-Michelle

FREE Stuff!!

2009-06-22T06:00:00.002-06:00

You know you love FREEbie$!

Check out the great FREEbie$ this week:

++Love to garden or want to learn? Get a FREE garden e-book from Fave Crafts HERE. They are also offering a FREE subscription to their Craft Newsletter HERE.

++Speaking of gardening...have you signed up for the Home Depot Gardening Club yet? Sign up HERE and get FREE advice and valuable coupons!

++Planning a summer getaway - or want to stay close to home? Get your FREE travel guides HERE. There are some you can download and some that they will mail to you!

++Get a FREE coke from Blockbuster with THIS coupon. Cool!

++Costco member? Get a FREE sample of Vaseline Intensive Care HERE.

++Get your FREE sample packs of Emeril's Essence HERE.

Enjoy!
-Michelle

Menu Plan Monday - Week of June 22-28

2009-06-21T21:00:00.004-06:00

Another week in my life has flown by. I can't believe it is already Menu Plan Monday! Here is the plan for this week:

Monday: Polish sausage/mashed potato casserole, green beans

Tuesday: Beef stroganoff over rice, steamed cauliflower

Wednesday: Bruschetta chicken bake (we missed this last week), vegetable

Thursday: Spaghetti, garlic toast, green beans

Friday: Dinner out!

Saturday: Tuna Helper, peas

Sunday: Leftovers

-Michelle

Weekly Shopping Trip

2009-06-20T09:31:00.004-06:00

This week was a pretty good week although I am over budget. I took my hubby with me to the store and that is always a budget disaster! Here is the damage for the week:

This is our trip to Winco where I took my husband. I'll let you guess what wasn't on the list. :)

5#ish bulk popcorn - $3.36

8 cans green beans - $4.40

2.82# bulk powdered sugar - $1.64

1.90# bulk bulk rigatoni - $1.60

1 pkg frozen burritos - $2.48

2.80# bulk rice - $1.54

2 bags shredded lettuce - $2.56

1 Vlasic pickles - $1.98

1 family pack pork ribs - $4.17

1 bag pretzels - $1.68

1.5#ish tomatoes - $1.50

1 bag doritos - $2.98

Net OOP: $31.68

I also went to Albertson's on Monday before their Unilever sale ended. I got:
4 All laundry detergent - $18.00 (-2 $1.00 off 2 coupons doubled) = $14.00

1 Ragu pasta sauce - $1.50 (-$.60 off coupon) = $.90

1 M&M - $.69 (-FREE coupon) = FREE

2 Breyer's ice cream - $6.00 (-2 $1.00 off coupons (one doubled) ) - $3.00

Net OOP: $19.29 + received $10.00 catalina good on next purchase + a phone number for a survey was on the receipt. If I take the survey I get a code for $2.00 off my next purchase!

I swear I took a picture of my second Albertson's transaction, but it wasn't in my camera when I downloaded pictures. Just imagine...

3 pkgs ground beef (marked down to $1.69/lb) - $6.89

2 Kraft easy mac cups - $2.00 (-$1.00 off 2 coupon) = $1.00

6 Kraft velveeta shells and cheese cups - $6.00 (-1 $1.00 off 2 coupon, 1 b1g1Free coupon, 1 2 FREE coupon) = $2.00

Used $10.00 catalina from 1st transaction.

Net OOP: $.73

I was pretty much done, but I made a quick trip to Fred Meyer on Thursday night:
1 whipping cream - $.69 (clearanced)

1 head cauliflower - $3.96

1 package pepperoni bites - $3.00

2 salad mixes - $1.98 (clearanced)

1 bunch bananas - $1.63

1 pkg green onions - $.50

1 32oz sour cream - $.99 (clearanced)

Net OOP: $13.52

My total for the week was $65.22. This is $15.00 over my budget, but I'm okay with that! My budget is $2,600 for the year or $50.00 per week. This includes food, household items, and diapers. These purchases bring my total for the year to $1,475.39.

How did you do this week?

-Michelle

Frugal Friday - Save on your Backyard BBQ's

2009-06-19T06:00:00.003-06:00

I love summer for many reasons, but most of all I love a great backyard BBQ! I love to eat, chat, and just enjoy the weather. If you are the host of a backyard BBQ, it can get rather expensive! Before I started really budgeting and couponing, I would spend over $100 on meat! Ugh!

Now I know that it is the company and atmosphere that make a BBQ great - not expensive cuts of meat!

Here are some tips for a fun FRUGAL backyard BBQ:

Make it a potluck! Don't take on all the work (or expense) yourself! Ask your guests to bring a dish to share. I have attended many "bring your own meat bbq's" that were fun and very successful! Just ask people to bring raw meat and you can grill it for them!
Plan your menu based on what you already have. I currently have a freezer full of cheap or FREE hotdogs. Our next BBQ will be hot dogs and hamburgers! I also scan my stockpile for ideas for jello salads, pasta salads, and desserts.
Plan your menu based on the sales. If you find a great deal on chicken, stock up for your BBQ!
Plan fun FREE activities. For our 4th of July BBQ a few years ago we spent a lot of money just to get entertaining activities for the kids - a cheapo slip and slide, Frisbees, balls, a mini pool, etc. Most of the items were no good after the party! This year they can play with our existing toys, run through the sprinkler, etc. and have just as much fun! The adults can play charades, other fun games, or just chat!

How about you? How do you make your backyard BBQ's fun and frugal?

Check out other Frugal Friday posts on Life as Mom HERE.

-Michelle

Favorite Blog/Site of the Week - Shop4Freebies

2009-06-18T06:00:00.000-06:00

There are a lot of FREEbie sites out there some okay, some good, some great, and some exceptional! Shop4Freebies falls in the exceptional category.

Here's why:

++The site is updated daily with great FREEbies.

++There is a link to the cheapest gas prices in your area! You enter your zip code and it gives a list with current gas prices!

++You can subscribe to get their FREEbie list in your inbox each week.

++FREEbies are categorized for ease of navigation.

++There is a money saving tips section where readers add their best tips. Check it out, there are some great ones!

Go check out Shop4Freebies today! You'll love it!

Enjoy!

-Michelle

Works for me Wednesday - Toothpaste

2009-06-17T06:00:00.003-06:00

If you do any shopping at Walgreen's you probably have a closet full of FREE toothpaste and will never have enough dirty teeth to clean!

I was recently having a conversation with a man from work and I was complaining about how dirty my wedding ring was. He told me that his wife cleans hers with toothpaste! I tried it and it worked great! It got me to thinking about what other great uses their could be for toothpaste.

I came across this article in Reader's Digest online and was amazed with all of the choices. You can read the article HERE.

The ones I have tried are:

-Clearing up pimples (this works great!)

-Cleaning my wedding ring

One that is not listed that I have done is use it as a temporary filler for holes in the wall - this was white toothpaste, but it worked surprisingly well!

I love finding new ways to use toothpaste, it works for me!

Looking for more great Works for me Wednesday ideas? Check out We are THAT Family!

-Michelle

Freezer Meals - Part One - Why?

2009-06-16T06:00:00.001-06:00

I have been casually doing freezer cooking since I first got married. I LOVE being able to grab something out of the freezer and quickly cook it on busy days or days I just don't feel like cooking. Freezer cooking is also a way to be able to save money and share with others.

This is the first part of a 5-part series on Freezer Cooking and how it can work for you. I hope you enjoy!

WHY should you do freezer cooking?

Saves time – I call this preparing things when you have time to save time when you don’t have time. Pull a meal out of the freezer to thaw in the morning, pop it in a dish, make some sides and you are done with dinner. There are even some great meals that you can prepare, freeze, thaw overnight and throw in your crockpot. Quick, easy, and delicious.

Saves money – prevents the temptation for grabbing fast food or frozen dinners from the store. Allows you to portion meals appropriate for your family for minimal waste. One of the best ways to save money on your grocery budget is to buy as much as you can/will use at the lowest possible price. You can buy food in bulk at the lowest possible price and prepare meals from it and freeze them for later.

Allows you to share meals with others without notice or extra work (i.e. extra shopping trips for an ingredient) on your part. Wouldn’t you love to bring a home cooked meal to a friend who had a particularly hard day without dirtying any dishes in your house?

It is healthy - You know exactly what is going into your meals. You will eat less convenience food because you will already have home cooked meals in your freezer!

It can help in any life situation - Single, Newlywed, or Empty Nester? Make meals portioned just for you or the two of you! Taking care of an elderly family member? Fill their freezer with freezer meals! Hate to cook? Cook for one full day and fill your freezer with meals for the month!

This is just the beginning...come back next week to find out some of the methods for freezer cooking. It can work for you!

-Michelle

FREE Stuff!!

2009-06-15T06:00:00.001-06:00

Here is your FREEbie list for the week! Sometimes these don't last long...so act fast!

FREE $ample$:
Get a FREE sample of Active Radiance Serum HERE.

Get your FREE sample of Head and Shoulders HERE.

Get some FREE sticky notes from Sandy Paper HERE.

Get a FREE sample of Pamper's Underjams HERE.

Check out all the FREEbies from Walmart available now HERE. (some examples are Aveeno Nourish shampoo, Sun Crystals sweetener, Crest Whitestrips, Tampax Pearl and more!)

Other FREEbie$:
Register with Luv's Diapers HERE for savings, offers, and advice.

Download some fun FREE fonts HERE. During the installation process it will ask if you want other offers, just click decline if you are not interested.

Request a FREE fitness plan from Curves HERE.

Sign up for the FREE Home Depot Garden Club HERE. Get gardening tips and coupons for Home Depot! Cool!

Enjoy!

-Michelle

Menu Plan Monday - Week of June 15-21

2009-06-13T18:20:00.005-06:00

So I didn't make everything on my menu last week, but I did pretty well. I also came up with a tater-tot/sloppy joe casserole at the last minute that turned out really good. I love it when experiments work!

Here is the plan for this week:

Monday: (workday) Leftovers (I made a yummy impromptu beef stew in the crock pot late last week, so we will finish that up!)

Tuesday: (workday) Macaroni and cheese, green beans

Wednesday: BBQ Pork Ribs, cheesy potatoes, broccoli

Thursday: Brushetta chicken bake, vegetable

Friday: Potluck BBQ at our house!

Saturday: Whatever is leftover, hanging around the house

Sunday: Turkey breast, mashed potatoes, gravy, rolls, veggies

-Michelle