Like a Merchant Ship

Publix Kelloggs 50% Sale & $5/30 gift card success

2012-02-19T22:37:00.000-05:00

Had a very successful day today shopping Publix's Kelloggs 50% sale. I made 4 trips. Yes, four, and at 4 different Publix stores. And in one day because I did not have time to take advantage of the sale Saturday.

So, I didn't lay everything out for pictures, but I will add a picture of my pantry soon. We're growing quite a stockpile, and I am compiling a very large donation for a local battered women's shelter. Couponing is such a gift from YHWH :)

Okay, so here's the breakdown. I made a few mistakes (grabbing wrong items), but overall it was extremely successful.

QTY	ITEM	PRICE	COUPONS	subTOTAL	SAVINGS	TOTAL
TRIP 1 (Sunday)
9	Up2U gum	1.49	(9) $1/1 (9) 0.55/1	13.41	13.95	+0.54
4	Wish-Bone dressing	2.89	(2) 0.65/2 (2) $1.50/2	5.78	4.30	1.48
1	Powerade 30oz	1.25	(1) free	1.25	1.25	Free
2	Kelloggs Krave	50% 1.99	(1) $5/5=2 (1) $1/2	3.98	3.00	0.98
2	Crunchy Nut	50% 2.00	(1) $5/5=2 (1) $1/2	4.00	3.00	1.00
1	Smorz	50% 1.63	(1) $5/5=1	1.63	1.00	0.63
4	Sundown Folic Acid	3.79	(4) $3/1 (2) $3/2	15.16	18.00	+2.84
			$5/30		5.00
				45.21	49.50	+4.29-tax
				Paid OOP: -$3.27—I MADE $3.27

Trip 2 (last trip I made before I picked up the children from my parents'):

TRIP 2 (Sunday)
1	Corn Flakes	50% 2.05	(1) $5/5=1	2.05	1.00	1.05
2	Rice Krispies	50% 2.17	(1) $5/5=2	4.34	2.00	2.34
2	Cocoa Krispies	50% 2.17	(1) $5/5=2	4.34	2.00	2.34
1	Cinnabon	50% 1.63	(1) $5/5=1	1.63	1.00	0.63
1	Frosted Mini Wheats	50% 2.00	(1) $5/5=1	2.00	1.00	1.00
1	M&Ms	3.91	Free w/ cereal	3.91	3.91	free
2	Powerade	1.25	(2) free	2.50	2.50	free
1	Kelloggs Krave	50% 1.99	(1) $5/5=1 (1) 1/2=0.5	1.99	1.50	0.49
1	Crunchy Nut	50% 2.00	(1) $5/5=1 (1) 1/2=0.5	2.17	1.50	0.67
6	Sundown Folic Acid	3.79	(6) $3/1 (2) 2/1 (2) 3/2	22.74	28.00	+5.26
			$5/30		5.00
				47.67	49.41	+1.57-tax
				Paid OOP: -$0.93—I MADE $0.93

More to come later...

2 In-Store February Publix Booklets

2012-02-14T16:07:00.001-05:00

I went to a different Publix than usual and came across two books we don't yet have at my local store:

Take The Special K Challenge--

Coupons included (manufacturer coupons, all w/ exp. 2/25/12):

$2/1 Dasani multipack when you purchase 1 pkg of Special K Cereal bars (5ct+) AND 1 Kellogg's Special K2O Protein Water Mix (7ct+)

$1/1 Starkist Tuna pouch when you purchase 1 Kellogg's Special K crackers (8oz+)

$3 off fresh produce when you purchase 2 pkgs Kellogg's Special K crackers (8oz+) AND 1 pkg Special K Protein Shakes (4ct)

$1/1 Minute Maid Pure Squeezed Light Orange Juice beverage (59fl oz) when you purchase 1 pkg of Kellogg's Special K cereal (11.4oz+)

$1/1 Morningstar Farms Veggie Foods Product when you purchase 2 pkgs of Special K cereals (11.4oz+)

$1/1 Wholly Guacamole product (7 or 14oz) when you purchase 2 pkg Kellogg's Special K crackers and/or cracker chips (4oz+)

$1/1 Sargento reduced fat or reduced sodium Shredded, Sliced, or Snack item when you purchase 1 pkg Special K crackers (8oz+)

**I will look through the Publix/Target coupons to find matchups. Any ideas??

Return the love. Publix pet booklet--

Coupons included (Publix coupons, all w/ exp. 3/7/12):

$1/1 Purina One dog food (18lb)

$1/1 Nylabone Nutri Dent dog treat (8-36ct pkg)

$1/3 Iams canned dog food (13.2oz)

$1/1 Adams Flea & Tick item (12-24oz bottle)

Buy 1 Whiskas multi pack cat food (30-72oz multipack), Get 1 Crave cat treat free (3oz)

B5G1 Whiskas food for cats (3.5oz cup)

$1/1 Purina One Smart Blend cat food (3.5oz)

$1/1 Hartz dog or cat toy

$1/1 Hartz Nodor Litter Spray (17oz)

$1/1 Arm & Hammer cat litter (14lb)

$2/1 Newman's Own Organics cat food (3lb)

$1/1 Meow Mix cat food (6.3lb+)

$1/1 Iams dog biscuits (24oz)

$2/1 Iams dry dog food (17.5oz)

$0.50/1 Rachael Ray Nutrish Just 6 dog treats (10oz)

$1/1 Kibbles 'N Bits dry dog food (3.6lb+)

Weekly Freebies

2012-02-14T04:24:00.001-05:00

Nivea lip care-- $2/3 at Publix-- use $3/2 Nivea coupon from the 2/12 RP insert

Got2B products-- $5.99 B1G1 at Walgreens-- use (2) $3/1 Got2B fullsize product coupons from 2/12 RP

Printable Coupon Sites

2012-02-13T16:05:00.000-05:00

Just found this one today: ClickCallMail-- it has Publix/ General Mills coupons (the Publix ones are pdf)-- I think the $1/2 Muir Glen coupon will be a nice matchup for the manufacturer's coupon I have. Now, where was it??

Cooking with Kraft-- Kraft/Publix coupons-- my favorite is the "SAVE $1.00 on Publix® Produce when you buy OSCAR MAYER Deli Fresh Chicken Breast Strips or Cuts (6 oz. or larger)" I used this one a few weeks ago to get a pkg of 6ct donuts for $1.47 (& bought the meat). There is also one for $1/2 Kraft shredded cheeses with a touch of Philidelphia. Kraft cheeses are B1G1 starting Thursday (Wed. for some), so I hope these are included.

In Stores Now @ Walmart-- this is a great place to sign up for free samples and print various coupons (not all are restricted to Walmart). Right now there are a handful of printable coupons including Crystal Light & Glade Expressions. You can also sign up to see if you qualify for a free Life Choice bar.

Pillsbury/General Mills-- many Pillsbury and GM printable manufacturer's coupons without store limitations

Facebook-- there are literally TONS of printable coupons on company's respective facebook sites. Just type in "facebook" in the coupon database for an exhaustive list.

Thursday 3-- Three {FREE} Rewarding Sites

2012-02-09T21:43:00.002-05:00

Recyclebank-- This is one of my favorites. Participate in different activities (watching videos, taking quizzes, pledging to recycle and actually recycling) to earn all sorts of great rewards. Recently there was a $2 off any Kashi item coupons that were great. There are retailer discounts, buy one get ones and tons more. Others have reported Harris Teeter and Publix $5/35 coupons at times. It's easy, free and you'll learn quite a bit about protecting our environment as well. ***Tip: Have your kids participate with you for a wonderful science lesson :)

DailyFeats-- I just discovered this one, but I already love it. Click on activities as you do them daily, give others props for their accomplishments, join a group or challenge, and earn rewards like $5 Ebay gift certificates and $5/35 Walgreens cards. Or provide a donation to a worthy organization :) All for working on creating habits that are good for you anyways. Can ya beat that?

Facebook-- Okay, perhaps this site needs no introduction. Even my mother, who refuses to create her own account, has added this social media giant's title to her common vocabulary. So, it isn't that surprising that so many companies have facebook pages. Likewise a large majority of these sites offer printable coupons and promotions. Lately I have earned 3 free bottles of Pantene and scored countless coupons that granted me very discounted (if not free) items.

Favorite Coupons & Freebies

2012-02-06T19:42:00.005-05:00

There are so many good deals right now. I am rediscovering my love of shopping {sans the desire to spend money} ;)

Here's a list of just some of my favorites:

for Publix:

Sominex & Phayzyme $2/1-- use these (you should be able to print twice per computer) stacked with the $5/2 coupon in Publix's Green Advantage Flyer & make $2.62 and $2.02 in overage, respectively
**NOTE: Publix shoppers are a savvy bunch, so oftentimes good deal products run out quick (I find this especially true with vitamins/medicines), so try going Wednesday morning (restocking occurs on Tuesday, at least in my area) for the freshest selection OR you can always put in a special order for the next week. And, if all else fails--ask for a raincheck.

Tena $7/1-- this is a pdf coupon you receive when you sign up. There are no restrictions. It reads "up to $7", so depending on the cashier you may receive $7 off or simply the price of the product ($5.19 at Publix). The coupon will beep prompting the cashier to enter the amount, so it is up to their discretion. It reads that the vendor will receive reimbursement for the amount of the coupon plus the $0.08 handling, so it shouldn't harm Publix to go ahead and take off $7, giving you almost $2 in overage.

Sambazon for FREE-- "like" them on facebook & share the deal with a friend--earn a free 10.5 oz bottle, cashier will have to write in the amount, but it'll be FREE
Sambazon $2/1-- (use zip 33614 if you don't see it) Sambazon 10.5 oz (found in produce section) are on sale 2 for $4, so score free drinks with this one :)

Beech-Nut $1/3-- the Stage 2 glass jars of baby food are B1G1 (so, 2 for $0.55), so with 6 jars & 2 coupons, you can earn $0.35 in overage

Birds Eye $1/2-- complete activity to print coupon, most Bird's Eye frozen veggies are 50% at Publix right now, so stack this coupon with the $1/2 Publix coupon (found in the "Find Yourself in Good Health" booklets at the store) and get free or very cheap veggies

Kikkoman $1/1-- the seasoning packets are $0.89 at regular price at Publix, so they are $0.11 moneymakers each

Produce coupons??

2012-02-06T14:11:00.005-05:00

One of the most common questions I get about my couponing is...

..........."Are there any coupons for produce or meat??"

Well, my usual response is that I use my overage to get those items or sometimes coupons that give you a discount, say, on orange juice for buying another product. But sometimes, there are actually coupons for fresh produce as well. (Um, yay!!!!)

Here are a few I've recently come across:

B1G1 Chiquita Avocados-- I believe these are on sale B1G1 at Publix, so if they are chiquita brand--they're free :) Just "like" their facebook page for the coupon.

Driscoll's Berries-- sign up for their email & receive a $0.50/1 any Driscoll's berry coupon. My local stores often carry Driscoll's strawberries & rasberries, so this could make a good discount there :)

Earthbound Farm-- I wrote them an email, using their contact form & received an email containing a $5.00/1 coupon for any Earthbound Farm item-- easily possible to get a free deal out of this one :)

And, I just came across this one: Organic Girl $1/1-- Thanks, I Heart Publix!!

So, there ya have it. They do exist!

spent $5.21 on $302.08 worth of groceries---2 Publix Trips today for 2 $10 gift cards

2012-02-05T16:54:00.010-05:00

So, I'm not all interested in the Super Bowl. Figured I'd spend the morning stocking up on some more groceries. My goal is to earn 5 $10 Publix gift cards this week {I have until Wednesday night for this promotion). Earned 1 yesterday & 2 today. Two more to go. I already have 1 list prepared; I plan to get the fresh produce items on the 4th trip. But I am going to take a break for a day or 2 while I finish up some Etsy orders & work on schoolwork with the boys.

So, here ya have it. I did it in 2 trips (at 2 different Publix stores) because the first (my favorite) didn't have enough stock for both. I'll write up the lists later like I did in my last post, but right now I must go cook dinner.

First trip:

Total OOP: $0.53 (forgot to use gift card, so I actually paid cash--plus Dalton wanted Starburst which were $1.01 & for which I paid full retail--gasp! ;) The lady behind me was actually shocked I bought it without a coupon, hahaha ;P

Trip 2:

Total OOP: $4.68 (used Friday's gift card so it actually didn't cost me anything)

Total spent: $5.21 Total saved (according to Publix): $302.08 (**unfortunately many of these items were store promotions so they came off the total immediately, making my total under $300 in both trips, so thus not making me eligible for 3 cards. But, I think I did okay nonetheless ;P)

Then, there's this, the donuts from the first trip that were quickly devoured ;), the coupons from products I purchased (I didn't use them on the purchase b/c I had better ones, so I've got those for later), and the 2 gift cards I received. I also earned one on Friday's trip.

So, there ya have it. I'd like to be able to match up all the coupons for ya, but I HEART PUBLIX is really all ya need. That, the coupon database at Southern Savers, a few coupon printer downloads & well, the Sunday paper (lots of them).

Alrighty then. I feel like I accomplished something today :)

1st Publix Shopping Trip for $10 GC

2012-02-03T20:40:00.005-05:00

Had a very successful trip to Publix earlier this afternoon. I had a begrudgingly helpful assistant (ahem, my 12yo)& one of the most wonderful cashiers. Thanks, Connor!! I think I'm just going to start only going to this one Publix where my 2 favorite cashiers work. I'll just make sure one of them is there ;P Sure makes for a happier trip & removes so much of my anxiety about unhappy cashiers.

So, here ya have it. My 6yo was a wonderful helper organizing these items into the pantry :) Thanks, buddy :)

3 Tena pads @ 5.19
-used 3 $7/1
= overage, yay!
4 Aunt Jemima waffles @ B1G1 (2 for) 2.50
-used 2 $1/2
2 Lloyds BBQ @ B1G1 (2 for) 5.99
-used 2 $1/1
3 Bandaid trial packs @ 0.79
-used 3 $1/1
= overage, yay!
5 Method dish soaps @ 2.50
-used 5 $1.50/1 (mc) & 5 $1/1 (cc)
4 Bird’s Eye Southland Squash @ 50% off 1.49 (0.75 each)
-used 2 $1/2 (sc) & 2 $1/2 (mc)
= overage, yay!
6 Bird’s Eye spinach @ 50% off 1.39 (0.70 each)
-used 3 $1/2 (sc) & 1 $1/2 (mc) & 2 $0.50/1
= overage, yay!
2 Bird’s Eye veggies @ 50% off 1.99 (1.00 each)
-used 3 $1/2 (sc) & 2 $1/2 (mc)
= free J
6 Muir Glen diced tomatoes @ $1.69
-used 2 $2/3 (sc) & 3 $1.10/2 (mc)
14 Barilla whole grain pasta @ B1G1 (2 for) $1.49
-used 7 $1/2
2 Smithfield bacon @ $3.34
-used 2 $1/1 (mc) & 1 $1/2 (sc)
4 Planters peanuts @ B1G1 (2 for) $3.99
-used 2 $1.50/2 (mc) & 2 $1/2 (cc)
2 Cheez-It @ $1.67
-used $1/2 (mc) & 1 $1/2 (cc)
4 Sun Drop 2L @ $1.89
-used 2 B1G1 (mc) & 1 B3G1 (sc)
24 Beech Nut baby foods @ B1G1 (2 for) $0.57 ***for donation
-used 8 $1/3 (mc)
= overage, yay!

TOTAL OOP: $14.98
Earned $10 Publix gc (for spending $100 before coupons)

TOTAL= $4.98

mc=manufacturer’s coupon
sc= store coupon
cc= competitor coupon

My First Giveaway!!!

2009-05-05T23:00:00.001-04:00

This giveaway has ended. Please visit again soon for some more wonderful products!

Now, what am I giving away, you ask. Well, let's see. . .

The winner will receive:

--350+ coupons-- Most have expiration dates in June or later, and I have separated all the coupons that expire at the end of May. There are some duplicates, but also TONS of variety. Some of the advertisers represented are:

Post, Kraft, Mrs. Smith's, Pledge, Windex, Hefty, Loreal, Cottonelle, Dole, Pillsbury, Dawn, Frenchs, Glade, Reynolds, McCormick, Whiskas, Clorox, Arm & Hammer, Yoplait, Advil AND TONS MORE!!

-- 1 Glade Sense&Spray unit and 1 Glade Lasting Impressions unit (both Clean Linen scent)

--And my favorite!! The coupons will come all bundled up in this cute little box, quite fitting for this giveaway, if I do say so myself (and I do :) )
HOW TO ENTER:
Leave a comment on this post with your favorite money-saving/frugal tip. ***Please leave a email address so I have a way to contact the winner.

EXTRA ENTRIES:
1. Follow me on Blogger and/or Twitter (1 comment per each, up to 2)
2. Subscribe to my feed via RSS or email.
3. Tweet about this giveaway (and come back and comment that you did) **this can be done once a day**
4. Add 1 or all 4 of my buttons (see sidebar) to your blog, (1 comment per each, up to 4)

EXTRA EXRA ENTRIES:
1. 3 extra entries per each when you enter 1 or all 3 of my son's giveaways by commenting HERE, HERE, and/or HERE Please leave three separate comments on this post per giveaway entered there (3 comments per each, up to 9)
2. 5 extra entries if you blog about this giveaway. Come back and leave the link, please.

THE DETAILS:
Giveaway will end on Wednesday, May 13th at 11:59pm ET. The winner will be chosen via Random.org. I will announce the results here (this post and a new one), as well as I will contact the winner via the given email. The winner will have 72 hours to contact me or a new winner will be chosen. I'm sorry, but this giveaway is open to US residents only.

GOOD LUCK!!!

traveling (yes, with kids)

2009-05-01T22:31:00.000-04:00

INSPIRE: Travel Edition
Blog Trilogy

Please visit my other two "homes" for a themed continuation of this series. See some perfect accessories for your trip at Olive Shoot Makes Stuff and chuckle reading about traveling mercies at Olive Shoot. Enjoy!

Odd-numbered highways run north to south. Even-numbered highways run east to west. Two-digit interstates are often the most direct routes through a city (i.e. I-95), while three-digit interstates go around the cities. (also true in Jacksonville I-295 goes around)

SOME VERY HELPFUL RESOURCES:

Roadfood -- find the best food in the small towns along your route
Roadside America -- guide to the often missed, offbeat attractions
Road Trip America -- estimate gas costs based on gas prices and your car's fuel efficiency then go to WHERE? and find the gas stations with the cheapest prices
-- Check out the Funny Signs section!
-- Tons of great links here to sites such as:
Road Trip Planning
Families On the Road
Road Sign Math

TRAVELING WITH KIDS:

Mom's Minivan -- 101 car games for kids, road trip ideas, printables and travel freebies
-- one of my boys' favorite games for the car was Battleship (Did you know you could
play this game without the obnoxious tiny white and red pieces??)
-- also check out Road Trip Mom's Blog for even more resources
Family Fun Travel Games -- there are a few good ones here
What Would You Do? Family Game printables
Crayola -- Crayola has a fair selection as well

I hope that if you do take a trip this summer (or anytime!) with your kids, that it is pleasurable for everyone (including mom ;)

In HIM~

Yes, more giveaways ENDING SOON

2009-04-28T22:02:00.000-04:00

Okay, so here are some giveaways ending tonight through Friday, so HURRY UP and enter if you are interested!

4/28 (that'd be today)
Make More Cents Piggy Bank @ Baby Loving Mama
Green Party Goods Set @ Prissy Green
Throw Out Fifty Things (book) @ Trying 2 Stay Calm
Dancing With the Stars Nintendo DS Game @ Buzz Focus

4/29
Rubiks World for the Wii @ Organizing With Sandy Reviews
Marie Claire Magazine Subscription @ Shop It To Me
Sea Breeze Necklace @ Up North Preppy
Good Clean Love Travel Set @ Wedded Bliss (Blissfully Domestic)
Swarovski Crystal Bracelets @ Sweeps 4 Bloggers
CZ Hammered Gold Filled Necklace @ Simag Jewelry

4/30
Gaia Necklace and Earrings @ Love and Lust Designs
Frecklebox Personalized Gift @ Baby Loving Mama
Charm Bracelet or Necklace @ Trenches of Mommyhood Reviews
Pendant, Earrings & Art Clay Silver @ Murano Silver
Handmade Necklace and Earrings @ Coupon Center
ImmCreations Guardian Angel Earring and Necklace @ Nana's Box
The Good Home Cookbook @ Nicki's Thoughts, Art & Friends
Alphabetica by Lynne Perrella (childrens book) @ One Creative Queen
$200 Home Depot Gift Certificate @ One Project Closer
J. Crew Glass Bead Ribbon Necklace @ J.CrewAholics

Some pretty fly giveaways

2009-04-20T09:25:00.001-04:00

Too good not to share. . .

**listed by deadline dates**

4/20
Jack & Lily Children's Shoes @ Babes and Kids Review (Jack & Lily)
See Kai Run Shoes @ Parentgear (See Kai Run)
Build-A-Bear Workshop A Friend Fur All Seasons for WII @ Full Nest Reviews (Game Factory)
Dream Sacks Woven Bamboo Throw @ Prissy Green (Dream Sacks)
Diamond Pendant @ My Fashion Cents
Monsters vs. Aliens Video Game @ Momma's Review (Activision)
1928 Jewelry Earrings and Necklace @ The Fashionable Housewife (1928.com)

4/22
Croc shoes @ Simple Finds (Crocs)
I Get Around Travel Activity Set from Little Jet Set @ Doublebugs (Little Jet Set)
What's A Dame to Do Game @ annies home (games for dames)

4/23
Younginz Children's Shoes @ Cool Baby Kid
Gourmet Gift Basket for Mother's Day @ Playground for Parents (Printamentals)
Sweet Irie Wristlet @ Sweet Irie Originals

4/24
Bon Bon Cupcake Leggings @ Mom Fuse (Bon Bon Cupcakes)
Dapper Tags @ Peanut Butter and Smelly's Dad
$50 Crocs gift certificate @ Apron Strings Aflutter
Boon Animal Bag @ Steals and Deals (Boon)
Samsung SC-DX103 Digital DVD Camera @ Gourmet Mom on the Go

4/28
Eco-Friendly Cupcake Goods @ Prissy Green (Green Party Goods)

4/29
WowWee Toys Tribot and WowWee Alive Club @ Superdumb Supervillian
$50 Bamboosa Gift Certificate @ Prissy Green (Bamboosa)
Rubiks World for WII @ Organize with Sandy (The Game Factory)

4/30
Superhero jewelry from Superhero Designs @ Unexpected Bliss in honor of her 1 year Blogiversary
Pair of ShooShoos @ Piece of ME (ShooShoos)
Dapple Baby-Friendly Cleaning Package @ Momtrends
Bissell Carpet Cleaner @ Cutie Bootie Cakes
Frecklebox Personalized Gift @ Baby Loving Mama (Frecklebox)
Gaia Necklace and Earrings @ Love and Lust (**her first blog giveaway :)

5/3
Tiny Tag Designs: A Mothers Day Giveaway! @ Piece of ME (Tiny Tag Designs)
----oooohhH! One of these days I will have a stamped silver necklace, I tell ya! Just wait;)

5/8
Vivre Evita Hobo Handbag @ Purse Blog (Vivre)

Good luck!!

Today's REDBOX codes

2009-04-13T12:33:00.000-04:00

Wanted to share a few codes with ya:

Today's Monday Promo code is: J89LA2
It is good until 11:59 tonight.

These codes worked for me today, getting me 3 movies for the price of. . .$0.00
And you can actually rent up to 5 a day as a returning customer, so 5 for $0.00-- I believe they just have to be separate transactions.

REDBOX --for new customers only, so I used this one first
BREAKROOM
DVDONME
DVDATWAG-- Walgreens only

Coupon Ladies-- I have a question

2009-04-11T13:54:00.000-04:00

I have a question for any of you women who have become such geniuses with the use of coupons.

What are the actual rules concerning coupon usage? Some stores let me use multiple coupons for the same product (given they aren't duplicates), but other places say I can only use one. One the coupons it often says, "Limit one per customer". Is there an across-the-board understanding or does it vary by store? I see some of you women save tons of money, but I don't know how that can be done with just one coupon.

If you can enlighten me on this, I would be most grateful. Thanks so much!

Did you know about these?? giveaways for the next week

2009-04-09T21:34:00.000-04:00

Here is a list of some exciting giveaways going on in the next week. I purposely left out the ones this weekend, as I will be celebrating Easter and not participating in any. But, there are plenty out there if you look. Feel free to check on my sidebar for the buttons and blogroll-- many great giveaways hostesses there!

4/13
Sweater Coat or Hoodie from Picaflor Kids @ Piece of Me
Shoes from See Kai Run @ The Laughs Will Go On
$25 Ecostore Giftcard @ Mommies With Cents
Camera Clutch by Funksion @ Simple
12 Month Subscription to Relish! Weekly Menu Planner @ Kid Buy Products
Kate Quinn Organics Longsleeve Tee @ dkMommy Spot
$25 Gift Certificate from Paper Shout @ "Catch the Drift" with Mama Snow

4/14
Fortamajig Kid's Indoor/Outdoor Tent @ dkMommy Spot
**Check out all the giveaways listed at the linky on her site: HERE
O Yikes! 24/7 Diaper Bag @ Simple
Pair of Shoes from Eleven Collection @ Kid Buy Products
2 Aller-ease Protective Pillow Covers @ Babies Gotta Have It
Necklace from Amanda Davie @ articulations
Mrs. Meyer's Clean Home Book @ Monkey's Momma
Safe Sippy from Calamari Baby @ The Soothie Ranch (Calamari Baby)

4/15
Free Night's Stay at a Hyatt @ Travel Savvy Mom
6 Months of Ragu Sauce & Robin Miller's New Book @ Skimbaco Lifestyle
Dinner for 2 at Chilis @ Frugal Plus

4/16
Nature's Inventory Organic Wellness Oils @ Prissy Green
Exergen Temporal Thermometer @ The Soothie Ranch (Exergen)

4/17
"Parenting Cards" from The Natural Parenting Project @ Frugal Freebies

4/18
dylbug Baby Apparel @ Parents Gear

4/19
Handmade Crafts @ Urban Craft

4/20
See Kai Run Shoes @ Parents Gear
LanoLip Pamper Package @ The Lano Company

STORES MENTIONED ABOVE:
EcoStore
See Kai Run
Eleven Collection
dylbug
The Happy Kid Company (Fortamajig)

**Also check out the "Gimme Giveaways" Linky on A Blog of Goodies

ENJOY!!
**If you participate in any of these, please tell them I sent ya!**

Enter giveaways with me at Steals and Deals & A Giveaway Addicted Mommy

2009-04-07T17:48:00.001-04:00

Okay, I've told you before, but I'll tell you again. . .I LOVE STEALS and DEALS! In fact, I think this is the second site I went to hunting for giveaways, and I've been a faithful follower ever since. So, logic suggests I should mention the great giveaways at this site first:

@ STEALS and DEALS

Olive Kids-- These are the cutest little "floor pillows". I think I need one for each of my boys now! Take a look at the Olive Kids site, what are your favorites? (**Hint hint, I love the Pirates!)

'Last Child in the Woods' from Powell's Books-- Ooh, have I told you how much I love Powell's Books?! (boy, I'm lovey today, huh?) Whenever I need an old, rare, out-of-print book, which is surprisingly often, I only visit one site, Powell's. Now, to my surprise, Steals and Deals is offering a giveaway for a great book on nature-deprivation with today's kids, called "Last Child in the Woods" by Richard Louv. I strongly suggest you take a look, we could all learn something! If not, remember Powell's Books for all your book needs!!

Oh Happy Day!- I am a big fan of Gospel music, so this giveaway must be for me ;). Okay, so maybe you aren't a huge fan of Gospel music, but I bet you are a fan of Queen Latifah, Three Doors Down, Jon Bon Jovi (yes, the Jon Bon Jovi) or Joss Stone. If so, you are in luck too, because they all perform on this compilation album. With Easter just around the corner, what a wonderful way to celebrate!!

@ A GIVEAWAY ADDICTED MOMMY

-Hand-stamped Silver Family Necklace from Lauren Nicole Gifts-- These are popular necklaces these days, and I have to have one (I can feel hubby cringing!) Enter the giveaway here. And, I suggest you check out some of Lauren Nicole Gifts' other great creations. Some of my favorites?? Well, the Fine Silver Wax Seal Initial Necklace tops the list! But, only one initial?? I would have to use my name I guess (or else get 5, that would be great too ;) I also adore ALL, yes all, the copper creations, it's so hard to pick a favorite! And I thought there were too many options in silver! I could hang out at Lauren Nicole all day!!

-Cart Stopper-- Oh my goodness, this. . .is. . .brilliant!! A suction cup attachment for your shopping cart allows you to "stick" onto your car preventing future rollaway carts with babies inside. You may have never had this problem, but I'm quite familiar with it. Visit My Lil Monkeys and see for yourself!

-O Yikes! changing pad and onesie-- I almost stopped blogging after the Cart Stopper, but then I noticed this giveaway and postponed dinner (*just a bit) so I could let you know about this one too! O Yikes! has really stylish bags for mamas, making mommyhood for the hip and trendy (not just us baby puke-covered style challenged moms like me!)

Tired of giveaways, yet? Me neither. I'm off to cook some "din-din" (*yes, I have reduced myself to the vernacular of my 3 year old--forgive me!), but never fear, in the overused, trite words of the Terminator: I'LL BE BACK!

Wishing Willow/Tip Junkie site reviews & giveaways

2009-04-07T11:27:00.001-04:00

I told you I planned to write a bit about Wishing Willow. I'd like to consider myself a woman of integrity ;), so here ya go.

I have to be honest and admit that I only discovered Wishing-Willow through giveaways, but by no means does that mean giveaways are the only draw to this site. Wishing-Willow is full of wonderful product reviews, and the companies that are chosen to be displayed speak to the great taste this blogmistress, a.k.a. Tara, has. Just look down the left column of her site, and see for yourself the great companies, it is like a collage of great creativity. And, Tara isn't missing her own unique eloquent style, as she manifests her dream, stated on her "About" page: "My goal in creating this blog is to provide for all of you a forum where products that are truly special can be featured, reviewed, and shared with a community that remembers what it was like to make wishes…and the magic of finding out that some wishes come true..."

She said it better than I could, and I have to emphatically agree that Tara is achieving her goals. And for special products and companies? There are plenty, and I would not hesitate to call any of them by that name. Let me share with you one of my favorites. Nanny Deprived is the first button you see, and if the buttons were placed in order of importance, I might just believe this one is in the right place. It's ingenious, if you ask me. But what if you weren't asking me. The uber-honest and creatively sarcastic Amanda is the webmistress behind this innovative blog and store bearing the same name. At Nanny Deprived (the store), you can find hilariously useful products like "Mommy Spit" and "Bad Ass Bootie Balm (er, diaper rash cream), and the chuckles will continue when you scroll on over to the blog. If you want to know how to be the best toddler you can be or you haven't yet been enlightened to the definition of "flabdominals" I suggest you hurry your little butt up and go visit Amanda.

And if you need any more convincing of the treasures that reside at Wishing Willow, how about a little inspiration? Just take a look at Tara's poetry written on the right sidebar. Or check out some of her featured artists: naokos stoop, lineanongrata, Gumball Grenade Illustrations, and loveallaround and talented jewelry designers: The Baker's Wife, Jesse McCann, and Helene's Dreams (**please note** this is just a taste of her extensive list)

If you have made it all the way through this review, checking at least some of the links I shared, I'm sure I needn't say anything more. I'm sure you're hooked too! So, let me share with you another giveaway website that I have quickly come to love because, like Wishing Willow, it contains far more than links to good giveaways (though it does that very, very well...)

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I have to say I love Tip Junkie's giveaway format! I'm not surprised because I am already a die hard fan of her site. I mean, "Tip Junkie"--brilliant! What I so appreciated about the giveaways is that only one, only one offered extra entries, and it was only one for putting a button on your blog, thus reducing the obnoxiousness of fluffy, chit-chatty extra posts! Since I wrote the last post, I've been so turned off by my ability to be so greedy and indulgent that I feel so guilty if I enter with more than one comment. So, thank you, Tip Junkie, for solving this problem and relieving my burden ;) Another brownie point for Tip Junkie: not only are there like a bazillion (if bazillion is approximately equivalent to 20 or so) different giveaways, they are very varied (do you enjoy my alliteration?--sorry, too much Mountain Dew makes me a little punchy). There are prizes from blog makeovers to real makeup, car seats to cakes (oh my goodness, Gerber Mama, I'm coming to you next, that Clineff's Confections cake looks delish). Take a look at just some of the great giveaways going on now (did you notice Wishing Willow's Laila Rowe bag in the picture too? Yep, she's one of the listings):

Make sure you don't just visit Tip Junkie for the giveaways. If you do, you will miss out on all the other wonderful resources this blog has to offer. Some of the highlights: Top Tips, Submit a Tip (makes me wonder if I even have any ;), and my other favorite, Shop!

Jolly Mom/Go Graham Go site review & giveaways

2009-04-07T11:26:00.001-04:00

Jolly Mom

Well, I checked out Jolly Mom, and I have to say, this blogger is much more than just giveaways (but aren't her giveaways great?? --see below)

This mama also has these great sites:
-The Jolly Kitchen- which is full of recipes, tips and offers! It just about makes me wanna cook (and, if you know me, you'd know that's a stretch :) And, I was surprised to find one of my new favorite desserts: Unbaked Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies!! One of my best buddies, Tara, brought these to a get together a few weeks ago, and I ended up taking them home and eating all of them myself!! T- did you get the recipe here?
-Save Your Sen$e at Home- this is a thrifty blog which has even more giveaways, can you believe it?? And freebies! And, I just love her memes, one for each day: More Money Monday, Tuesday Giveaway Roundup, Work at Home Wednesday, Thrifty Thursday, and Freebie Friday. Coupons, freebies and giveaways, I'm almost beside myself!!
-Saving With Style- which is just what it sounds like, a blog about saving stylishly. You'll find the wonderful coupons and reviews on here as well, but with a minimalistic, direct feel, which is a surprisingly welcome contrast to her busier sites (which happen to be more my style!!--but for those of you who are far more organized and focused than I am, this is the place for you!)

So, my final verdict is that Jolly Mom (a.k.a. Piera Jolly) is a passionate, legitimate, popular, reputable giveaway hostess, and I totally recommend her and will continue to promote her on my blog! (yes, with multiple buttons on my sidebar :)

And, if you already love her (or trust my opinion), I suggest you follow Piera on Twitter.

And. . .

I'm not sure the relationship--I'd guess friends, Piera and Felicia, feel free to correct me :)--but there is a connection between Jolly Mom and Go Graham Go!'s webmistress, Felicia, so I feel I should give you my review of her site as well. So, here goes. . .

Go Graham Go!

This is just such a cute blog to look at, I almost don't care about it's content. (No, I'm just kidding, but I do think the little boy in the header looks like my middle one, bandaids and all) Felicia subtitles her blog, "A Mom's Take on What Products Work and the Best Bang for Your Buck"--and I think it's quite fitting. There are tons of great coupons, free blog templates, product reviews and my favorite, a testimony to our Lord. Like Jolly Mom, this site has plenty of resources if you want to advertise. Go Graham Go! also has different (but equally exciting) giveaways. See...

I'd have to say that Felicia's site is just as interesting, reliable, and helpful. I have no qualms about leaving her button on my sidebar, and I will gladly promote her giveaways in the future (and participate as well!!)

If you want to know more about Go Graham Go!'s, Felicia, follow her on Twitter or find her on Facebook. I did!

***Since I've written this, Jolly Mom has added more giveaways, GO SEE! So has Go Graham Go! Don't believe me? Check out her site too!

Extra entries are like chit-chat

2009-04-07T11:25:00.001-04:00

Like I mentioned in a recent post, I have a new-found obsession with giveaways. I love the chance of it all; I love checking out new products; I love the circular system of advertising as it never really cheats anyone and everyone gets the promotion and exposure they seek. I comment about them, I tweet about them, I add the link to my blogroll, I even post their button on my sidebar (and I don't think I'm the only one). It's fun and addictive and exciting, but...

I do have one problem with the whole idea.

Participating in giveaways, namely the ones that offer "extra entries", just doesn't always settle well in my stomach. It reminds me of phone calls with friends you had to call only because you wanted something, but to not sound completely rude, I had to feign interest with bit of irrelevant, mindless chitchat until a reasonably comfortable time to break out the, "Hey, I was wondering..." bombshell. Extra entries are like that chitchat. I mean, tell me if I'm wrong here, but putting a link on a sidebar to promote another site should indicate that I personally recommend that site and each one could reflect upon my blog's credibility. But, I placed it on there so I'd win something. Not because I went to the site and thought it was awesome :) enough that I wanted everyone to check it out. So it's a game where contest participants promote a blog under the guise of actual devotion because it gives them another chance. (**And please tell me if I'm off here!)

So, because I like giveaways, and I like promoting blogs/sites that I think are of value, I have a solution. I am going to go through the links that are on my sidebar from giveaways and actually post about what I think. If I find something unacceptable, I can remove the button (and subsequently comment again on their blog letting them know--hey, it might count as another entry!- j/k) How does that sound?

Right now, Jolly Mom, Go Graham Go!, There Once Was a Girl, and Mom Giveaways are off to the right. Oh, and at the bottom, let's see, Vanilla Joy (doesn't count because, yes, I do like that site, I know I do!, but I'll write a review anyway), Mom Saves Money, Steals and Deals, That's Just Nifty Thrifty, All Because Two People Fell in Love, and Simple Finds. ooh, that's bad. I didn't know I was this bad, forgive me.

Well, my children seem to think that I bear the responsibility of feeding them (;) so I have to attend to that, but later I will let you know what I think, starting with Jolly Mom. If you'd like, go take a look around for yourself.

To see a longer list of the giveaway sites I've discovered lately, read my previous post.

Gimme giveaways #2

2009-04-07T11:20:00.001-04:00

Here ya go. . .tons of links for giveaway addicts (like me):

Like It Win It
Prizey--**Sign up for their emails and find out about tons of good giveaways each week (I just printed 17 pages worth!)
The Giveaways Blog
A Blog of Goodies
Tip Junkie
Laura Williams' Musings
All Because Two People Fell In Love
Sweepstakes Advantage
the Good, True and Beautiful
Blog Stalkers Unite
Mom Fuse
Jolly Mom
Wishing Willow
Mrs. Snowman's Savings
5 Minutes for Giveaways
Steals and Deals
Simple-Finds
The Gerber Babies Blog
Vanilla Joy
A Soft Place to Land
Barely Domestic Mama
There's Always Room for One More
Jillian: just me and my life
That's Just Nifty Thrifty
Mommy Mandy
The Giveaway Addicted Mommy
The Soothie Ranch
Adventures in Mommyland
Bellaziza's Favorite Things

All Because Two People Fell in Love & Steals and Deals site review and giveaways

2009-04-07T11:19:00.001-04:00

GREAT GIVEAWAYS:

All Because Two People Fell In Love

Visit the site, on the left top corner, are listed the giveaways currently going on:

World Championship Nintendo DS Game (Ends March 31)
Windex Outdoor All in One Window Cleaner (Ends April 4th)
DaBib (Ends April 6th)
Spray n Wash Bright & White (Ends April 7th)
Clorox Wipes Decor Canister (Ends April 8th)

And, just to add to the fun, Clorox is having the Listen to Your Clothes Sweepstakes- click on the link and enter to win a Luxe Laundry Room Makeover (I guess one would actually need a laundry room for this, huh? Well, unless they will make over my garage, count me out)

-Clorox is having yet another contest, this time "Design it Clean"

Steals and Deals

Gimme giveaways

2009-04-07T11:17:00.001-04:00

I had never participated in any blog giveaways before the one Miss Amanda had on The Daily Planet, but I have wanted to host one, and plan to in the near future. Then, I actually won something!!! (from Amanda) SEE??? Can you believe it?

I just think it is so cool to participate in giveaways- not only do you possibly win, you help others by promoting their blogs. Win-win! I just have to share the wealth. . .

Check out these great giveaways going on now:

Vanilla Joy's LAST CRAFT GIVEAWAY

Mom Saves Money's COUPON GIVEAWAY

Steals and Deals' FLIP AND TUMBLE GIVEAWAY

and other great giveaways from STEALS AND DEALS:

EARTHLUST giveaway

PUZZIBITS giveaway

COMPOST CROCK giveaway

HAPPILY NEVER AFTER 2 giveaway

LUCKY ME TEE giveaway

places to save

2009-03-28T13:52:00.000-04:00

Box Tops for Education

budget weddings

trash day

reuse:
-business envelopes
-vaccuum bags
-ziploc bags
-coffee grounds