Event: Home Depot Kids Clinic - Saturday, April 4, 2009

Just wanted to post a reminder of the FREE Home Depot Kid Clinic for April. Not familiar with this clinics? You can read some my previous posts here and here about the Home Depot and Lowe's Kid's Clinics.

April 4th @ Home Depot – 9am-noon: Window Birdhouse

Talk About and Tackle It Tuesday: Taxes!

This week I didn't exactly tackle the office as I wanted to. Instead, I did my taxes. I was actually quite surprised at how quickly and smoothly it went. I claimed one of the kids this year versus both of them (as it was my year to claim both). My fiance' had to claim our son in order to carry insurance on him. Next year, I will claim both to help with the taxes that I will owe on my unemployment.

Anyways, I gathered all the paperwork and laptop then headed for the living room floor. Within an hour, I was done! Not only that but I am getting a refund. A much larger one than expected.

One thing I had done when I found out (actually got the feeling I was being laid off), I switched my tax exemptions from 1 to 0. Some people would disagree and say I should have kept the money rather than give it to the government to hold on interest-free terms. Had I received it, I probably would have spent it because it wouldn't have been that noticeable. Once I was laid off I was no longer paying the ridiculously high child care fees so that amount was put towards my debt. Now that I've been trying to survive on a less than 50% off my old wages, I will be getting a lump sum of money that was "planned" (in the budget). For me, it worked. I didn't blow the money, I grew my savings and I focused on paying my debt down (all on my measly unemployment check).

Sorry to bore all you with the details but that's what I tackled this week and have been trying to tackle over the past couple of months. I didn't tackle all my debt but hope to by year-end.

Visit 5 Minutes For Mom to see what others are tackling. Visit Lazy Organizer's Talk About Tuesday to see what others are talking about.

CVS: April Monthly ECB Book - Free After ECB Offers

Interested in a preview of the CVS April Monthly ECB deals? Check out the ad scan here.

There are a few FREE after ECB offers that are good during the month of April...
Accu-Chek Aviva Diabetes Monitoring Kit $9.99 - Earn $9.99 ECB (Limit 1)

Another worth mentioning...
Mentos Gum - Buy 3, Get $1 ECB ($1.00/1 3-1-09 SS) - Should come out to be free after coupons and ECB

Walgreens: April Easy Saver - Free After ESR

I missed getting this out to you early this month. It's been pretty crazy around here...super busy. You can see the scan here. (Thank slickdeals) These are valid from March 29 - April 25, 2009.

Free After Rebate Items:
One A Day Multivitamin Drink Mix, 2-pack $1.49 ($1.00/1 3-22-09 SS)

Free Redbox Code for 3/30/09

Rent a free movie from your local Redbox kiosk using code: 89ZQJ3. This code is good for today only. Using the code is very easy. We've been renting them for a couple weeks now...the kids love it. We also used a few of the free codes found at Inside Redbox.

Here are the steps to follow:

1. On the first screen, select “Rent with Promo”.
2. You will be prompted to enter the code; enter the code.
3. Choose your movie.
4. Swipe your credit card (or debit card).
1. This is just in case you do not return the movie on time (by 9pm the next day). You will be charged $1 per day up to $25, if the movie isn’t returned.
5. You will be prompted to enter your zip code and email address.

You can use the code multiple times; however, you need to use a different debit or credit card.

Returning the movie is even easier. You can return the movie to any Redbox. It doesn’t have to be the one you rented it from.

Here are the steps to return a movie:

1. On the first screen, select “Return a Movie”.
2. When prompted, slide the movie in the slot.

That’s it!

Menu Plan Monday - Week of 3/30/09

We did fairly well with our menu last week. We didn't get to the Easy Baked Manicotti so it will stay on the menu for this week. My fiance' cooked tilapia for us one night. I'm not a fish/seafood person but I gave it a try. It was actually pretty good. It didn't have a fishy taste.

Our baseball practices start this week. We will have practice every day with the exception of Friday and Sunday. I'm hoping this menu works. Practices start at our normal dinner time and last for 2 hours so we've got to adjust to that making things a little more rushed. If it doesn't work, next week we'll probably do a lot of crockpot meals until we adjust to the new schedule.

Here's my menu plan:

Breakfast and Lunch options will be available all week. I do not plan breakfast and lunch for the weekends since it seems our schedules are a little too hectic for it. We do have fruit available for the kids with each meal and as a snack during the day.

Breakfast Options:
Waffles
Pancakes
Omelet/Scrambled Eggs, toast
Cinnamon Rolls
Cereal
Fruit Salad

Lunch Options:
Soup/Grilled Cheese
Chicken Nuggets, Fries
Fish Sticks, Fries
Turkey Sandwich, Salad
Salad, Fruit
Homemade bean burrito

Dinner (no options - you get what's cooked):
1. Brown Butter Tortellini With Spinach & Ham

2. Cheeseburgers and/or Smoked Turkey Sausage Dogs, fries
3. Honey Mustard/Dijon Chicken, egg noodles, broccoli, dinner roll
4. Salisbury Steak, Mashed Potatoes, Green beans, dinner roll
5. Leftover Crockpot Santa Fe Chicken (served over rice)
6. Easy Baked Manicotti

To see more menu plans, visit Organized Junkie's Menu Plan Monday.

Tim Horton's: Free Chicken Wrap Snacker - April 1, 2009

Tim Hortons will be giving away a FREE chicken wrap snacker on Wednesday, April 1 from 11:30 am - 2:00 pm. Select one of two flavors, chicken ranch or BBQ chicken. At participating U.S. stores. Limit one wrap per customer. While supplies last. Click here for more information.

Event: Lowe's Build & Grow Clinic - Saturday, March 28, 2009

Lowe's Build & Grow Clinics will be making a yard mobile on Saturday, March 28, 2009 from 10:00am-11:00pm. You can read my previous post about these clinics here.

Coupon Inserts for 3/29/09

There will only be 2 inserts in Sunday's paper - March 29, 2009. It will be a Smart Source and a Red Plum insert.

Remember that when you purchase your paper from the store, you are not guaranteed coupon inserts. I would check each paper before purchasing multiples. Or save money and trees, purchase only the coupons you need at The Coupon Clippers.

Friendly's: Free 3-scoop Sundae

Become a Best Friend of Friendly's and receive a free 3-scoop Sundae! Yum! Doesn't some ice cream, peanut butter, hot fudge, whipped topping and sprinkles sound good? You'll also receive birthday offers as well.

Curves: Free Registration With Bag of Groceries

Simply bring a bag of groceries into your local Curves with you as a donation to the local food bank and they will waive the registration fee. You will still need to pay the monthly fee. Click here to find a location near you.

Weigh In Wednesday - 3/25/09

Wow! Wow! Wow! I think I'm pretty much speechless this week. I lost 3.2 pounds last week! Now that's according to my scale. I stopped at Weight Watchers to weigh in before I went to the dentist. According to their scale (probably more accurate than mine), I was down 5.2 pounds!!! I updated my figures at the bottom. My weight loss to date on the top is smaller than the bottom chart because I had to work my way out of a few gains.

I still really didn't get any exercise in except for spending a lot of time walking around. I did climb the stairs at the EJ Nutter Center a few times on Saturday when we went to the Thunder Nationals. That was quite a workout each time I did it. Other than that, I've been staying busy and getting out of the house now that the weather is warming up. I find that I'm not snacking as much and eating to feed my feelings. It's paying off too!!

One thing that I've really been focusing on is "Stop, Rest, and Assess" my hunger. I'm trying to find my satisfied point rather than eat until I'm extremely full. I'm also eating more filling foods that way I avoid being extremely hungry. My biggest hunger comes on the weekends. I don't know what it is...maybe everyone being home all day and we really aren't on a schedule. I'm working on figuring it out though.

My goal this week is to drop 1.5 pounds and workout for at least 30 minutes 4 days this week. I've really got to get back into working out. I've made it to week 4 (maybe 5, I don't have the sheet in front of me) of the Couch to 5K and would like to finish the program and run a 5K before summer is over.

How did you do this week? What challenges are you facing? Are you seeing that you are more active now that the temperatures are warming up?

Goal 12/31/09	56.2
2009 Weight Loss-to-date	-3.0

Weight Watcher Weight Loss

Goal #1	5
Weight Loss (since 3/11/09)	-6.4

Free Redbox Code for 3/25/09

It's March Movie Madness at Redbox. There will be a free code every Wednesday in March. Rent a free movie from your local Redbox kiosk using code: MMM325. This code is good for today only. Using the code is very easy. You can also find free codes at Inside Redbox.

Marsh Supermarket - Easter Candy - Week of 3/26/09 - 4/1/09

Andrea @ Mommy Snacks contacted me about joining in on an Easter candy sale hunt. I was really excited about this opportunity. I will be bringing you the Easter deals for Marsh Supermarket.

This week's deals were almost nonexistent. As a matter of fact, I had to look at the ad twice to find any Easter candy.

Here's what I did find:
Easter Candy $2.00
Includes: Brach’s Tiny Jelly Bird Eggs - 14oz, Classic Jelly Beans - 18oz, Chocolate Covered Marshmallow Rabbits 3.1oz or Milk Chocolate Malted Eggs 8oz, Cadbury 4-Pack Caramel or Créme Eggs, Hershey’s Whopper Robin Eggs 10oz, Twizzlers Tweeterz 13.5oz or Jolly Rancher Jelly Beans 14oz

Easter Candy $1.00
Includes: Brach’s Assorted Varieties Jelly Bird Eggs 9oz, 12-Pack Lightning or 1-ct. Marshmallow Pop , Kandy Kastle Bunnies 1-oz. Frankford Hannah Montana Chocolate, Maramor Peanut Butter Chocolate Bunny 1ct, Palmer Chick a Dees 3-Pack, Double or Dairy Good Carrot Patch, Assorted Palmer Pastel Pals 1.75oz or 10-Pack to 12-Pack Assorted Varieties Peeps

Stop over at Mommy Snacks to check out all the Easter Candy deals here.

Back to the Dentist AGAIN!

Well, I'm off to the dentist again this morning. I have the last of my dental work...my crown being put on my tooth. It's the tooth that I had the root canal done on that caused me lots of problems (couldn't eat on that side of my mouth for over a week). They had the appointment down for a prep only. After a few minutes of back and forth on hold, I was able to get in to have the prep and crown done. My fight - I only have dental insurance until March 31st! Unless of course I pay the COBRA premium but I was told 2 weeks ago this would be my final visit until time for my cleaning.

I will be back this afternoon with my Wednesday posts and some weekly posts that aren't up yet. I have to work on a volunteer project that needs to be completed by Friday as well. Can I squeeze all that into my afternoon? We'll see.

Michaels Arts & Crafts Store: 40% off Coupons

There is a new printable Michaels coupon. It's for 40% off coupon good until Saturday, March 28, 2009. This coupon is only good on one regular priced item.

Restaurant.com: 70% off Restaurant Gift Certificates Until Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Restaurant.com offers gift certificates for restaurants, at discount prices. You can pay $3 for a $25 gift certificate. You can buy a $25 gift certificate to selected restaurants for only $3! Yes, that’s right $3 – use code SAVE when you checkout. Offer good until Tuesday, March 31, 2009.

Before you click over to Restaurant.com directly, why not click through Ebates, Mr. Rebates or Upromise to earn money back on your purchase? Receive 15% back on your purchase through Ebates and Upromise, or 20% from Mr. Rebates (with Mr. Rebates you cannot use PayPal as payment method). Not a member of any of these sites? It's easy and free to join. Just click the cash back shopping site you would like to use, register, then search for the store you would like to shop. Shop and start earning cash back for doing it! Who doesn't love getting paid to shop?!?

Talk About and Tackle It Tuesday: Making Rooms Complete

Over the past couple of weeks, I've been trying to do some catching up. However, it's been at home versus on my blog or even my emails (sorry folks). I finally got around to getting some curtains hung in the living room. It looks so much better in there. They aren't the most expensive valances but they complete the room. It should have taken three but I made do with 2.

Before

AfterWe also spent some time working on the family room that I painted a few months back. We didn't have seating out there. We now have a futon. I even put the train table back together so it could get some use before my youngest son out grows it. The treadmill finally got moved out of the family room and into the workout area in the garage. Now I need to work on the computer area which is in the same room. We'll see if I can accomplish that before next week.

Before

After

Besides working on the house and finishing rooms up, I've been doing a lot of volunteering. This is one area that I didn't do a lot with when I was working full-time. I hope to be able to continue volunteering when I find full-time employment (or even a part-time job).

To see what others are tackling, visit 5 Minutes For Mom's Tackling it Tuesday or to see what others are talking about, visit Lazy Organizer's Talk About It Tuesday.

Only In A Woman's World - New Webisode

Have you heard of Only In A Woman's World? It's a new mini web series about 4 ladies, each unique with her own personality..

They have a few short webisodes that you can watch. See the latest one here. If you missed the others, you can find them at the bottom of the screen. Just click on the webisode that you'd like to watch. They are quite funny. It's worth taking a short break from you hectic day to watch. You may find that you can relate them too.

You can also download some wallpaper for your computer too.

Menu Plan Monday - 3/23/09

Last week, I tried a new Turkey Stuffed Peppers recipe. The family loved it! It was great for me because it was only 4.5 WW points per serving and I was full after eating just one serving. As far as this week, we are going to try a few new recipes. I'm also going to be baking some dinner rolls and making homemade bean/onion burritos for a quick and easy lunch/dinner this week.

Here's my menu plan:

Breakfast and Lunch options will be available all week. I do not plan breakfast and lunch for the weekends since it seems our schedules are a little too hectic for it. We do have fruit available for the kids with each meal and as a snack during the day.

Breakfast Options:
Waffles
Pancakes
Omelet/Scrambled Eggs, toast
Cinnamon Rolls
Cereal
Fruit Salad

Lunch Options:
Soup/Grilled Cheese
Chicken Nuggets, Fries
Fish Sticks, Fries
Turkey Sandwich, Salad
Salad, Fruit
Homemade bean burrito

Dinner (no options - you get what's cooked):
1. Lemon Pepper Chicken, Noodles & Lite Cream sauce, broccoli, dinner roll

2. Veggie Pizza (similar to this recipe)
3. Turkey Rolls Cordon Bleu - 5 WW Points (not sure of side items yet)
4. Turkey Mini Meatloaves, Mashed Potatoes, Green beans, dinner roll
5. Crockpot Santa Fe Chicken (served over rice)
6. Easy Baked Manicotti

To see more menu plans, visit Organized Junkie's Menu Plan Monday.

Free Redbox Code for 3/23/09

Rent a free movie from your local Redbox kiosk using code: HG7W56. This code is good for today only. Using the code is very easy. We've been renting them for a couple weeks now...the kids love it. We also used a few of the free codes found at Inside Redbox.

Here are the steps to follow:

1. On the first screen, select “Rent with Promo”.
2. You will be prompted to enter the code; enter the code.
3. Choose your movie.
4. Swipe your credit card (or debit card).
1. This is just in case you do not return the movie on time (by 9pm the next day). You will be charged $1 per day up to $25, if the movie isn’t returned.
5. You will be prompted to enter your zip code and email address.

You can use the code multiple times; however, you need to use a different debit or credit card.

Returning the movie is even easier. You can return the movie to any Redbox. It doesn’t have to be the one you rented it from.

Here are the steps to return a movie:

1. On the first screen, select “Return a Movie”.
2. When prompted, slide the movie in the slot.

That’s it!

Bath & Body Works: Free Signature Collection Body Care Item w/$10 Purchase

Bath & Body Works is offering a free Signature Collection Body Care Item with any $10 in-store purchase. This offer is good until April 12, 2009.

Franklin Covey: Free 2009 Planner for The Recently Unemployed

I found this on Money Saving Mom's website this morning and figured I share it - just in case you missed it.

To receive a free planner, visit a FranklinCovey store this Saturday, March 21. Individuals recently unemployed can receive a 2009 Franklin Planner for free by providing the names of their last employer and supervisor, and the date they were laid off.

FranklinCovey wants to help those who have recently lost their job get a leg up during these recessionary times, so join us this Saturday at a FranklinCovey store near you!

I think I will stop and pick one up since I will be in the area of my local store. Unfortunately (some times fortunately), for those that don't know I was laid off from my job last year. I used my Franklin Covey planner everyday at work and used it up to the point that my pages ran out. So, I'll be glad to get back on track.

Coupon Inserts for 3/22/09

There will only be 1 insert in Sunday's paper - March 22, 2009. It will be a Smart Source insert.

Remember that when you purchase your paper from the store, you are not guaranteed coupon inserts. I would check each paper before purchasing multiples. Or save money and trees, purchase only the coupons you need at The Coupon Clippers.

There will be Aleve, Bayer, One-A-Day Multi-Vitamin Product, Playtex, Schick Quattro and Yoplait coupons.

Meijer One Day Saturday Sale - March 21, 2009

Meijer is having a one day sale starting Saturday, March 21, 2009. Here are the deals that I saw. You can view the full ad here.

There are 2 in-ad coupons for $5.00 off Any One (1) General Merchandise or Apparel Item priced $19.97 or more.

Grocery deals:
Doritos $1.88
Meijer Cooked Tail-On Shrimp $4.49
Meijer Chunk Cheese $2.49
Kellogg's Special K Bars (Big Box) $3.50
Keebler Chip Deluxe Cookies $1.88
Aunt Millies Healthy Goodness Bread ($0.353/1 1-11-09 RP)
Meijer Grape Juice 64oz 1/2 price
Thomas Original English Muffins $0.99
Purina Friskies Canned Cat Food 3/$0.99 ($1.00/15 2-8-09 RP)
Always Maxis and Liners, Tampax Tampons and Tampax Pearl B2G1Free (Lots of coupons: 3-1-09 P&G and P&G $120 Savings Booklet) **Remember use three coupons

General Merchandise:

Sunrise or Valley Splendor Wild Bird Food - B1G1

Next Day Prints $0.10 each

Falls Creek Kids', Infants', and Toddler's Folded Fashion Tees and Shorts $3.99

Twilight 2-Diisc DVD $17.99 (available 12:01 on March 21)

Kohl's: 15% Off Shopping Pass - Good online or in-stores March 20-21, 2009

Photo by Stones 55

Kohl's is offering an extra 15% off savings - good in-stores or online. Just enter SAVE15PASS at the checkout, if shopping online. If you area heading out to the store, print this shopping pass. Promo code is good March 20 - 21, 2009.

Want to save an extra $5 in-store or 10% online? Sign up for Kohl's sale alerts.

Like the other shopping deals, receive 4% back on your purchase through Ebates, 3% back from Upromise, or 2% from Mr. Rebates. Not a member of any of these sites? It's easy and free to join. Just click the cash back shopping site you would like to use, register, then search for the store you would like to shop. Shop and start earning cash back for doing it!

Marsh Supermarket Deals - Week of 3/19/09 -3/25/09

There are a few things that Marsh has on sale this week. You can check out their full ad here.

Now these sale prices are based on you using your Fresh Idea card. Don't have one? No need to worry, just stop by the front office on your way into the store. Also, you may want to check out their internet coupon policy before heading out. They do double coupons up to $.50, everything over is face value. You will also want to link your Fresh Idea card to UPromise and to Fresh Ideas for Education (points go to your school for your purchases).

Boneless Chuck Roast $1.98 lb

5-lb Bag Red Potatoes $1.88

Tyson Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts 2.5lb bag(frozen) $4.98

Dean's Dip $1.56
-$1.00/2 1-25-09 SS
Final Price: $2.12/2

Perdue Split Chicken Breasts $1.48 lb

Bob Evans Roll Sausage $2.50
-$0.35/1 1-25-09 SS
Final Price: $1.80

Bob Evans Fresh Sausage Links or Patties $2.49
-$0.35/1 1-25-09 SS
Final Price: $1.79

Cook's Ham $0.98 lb
-$1.00/1 Woman's Day December '08, BHG December '08 or InStyle November '08
Final Price: Depends on lbs

Gorton's Fish Sticks $3.99
-$0.40/1 3-1-09 SS or $1.00/2 3-1-09 SS
Final Price: $3.19 or $6.98/2

Duncan Hines Brownie Mix $1.50
-$0.35/1 2-1-09 SS
Final Price: $0.80

Aunt Millie's Bagels B1G1
-$0.35/1 1-11-09 RP
Final Price: Varies (use 2 coupons)

Aunt Millie's Mini Bagels B1G1
-$0.35/1 1-11-09 RP
Final Price: Varies (use 2 coupons)

Aunt Millie's Buns $1.39
-$0.35/1 1-11-09 RP
Final Price: $0.69

Kellogg's Rice Krispie Treats $1.66
-$1.00/2 3-15-09 RP
Final Price: $2.32/2

Yoplait Kids Cups $2.50
-$1.00/2 printable
Final Price: $4.00/2

Dannon Yogurt $0.50
-$.60/6 3-15-09 SS or $1.00/10 3-15-09 SS
Final Price: $2.40/6 or $4.00/10

Breyers YoCrunch 100 Calorie Yogurt $2.50
-$0.75/1 3-8-09 SS
Final Price: $1.75

Weight Watchers Smart Ones $2.00
-$1.50/7 printable or $1.00/5 WW booklet
Final Price: $12.50/7 or $9.00/5

Final Touch Fabric Softener $2.50
-$0.25/1 9-21-08 or 2-22-09 SS
Final Price: $2.00

Herbal Essences Assorted Hair Care $2.88
-$3.00/2 2-8-09 P&G or $1.00/1 3-15-09 P&G
Final Price: $2.76/2 or $1.88/1

Aussie Assorted Hair Care $2.88
-$3.00/2 3-15-09 P&G
Final Price: $2.76/2

Turnip, Collard, or Mustard Bunch Greens $0.88

If you heading to Marsh with the kiddos don't forget the Kid's Club Treat of the Week - Fielding Silly Straw. You can also get their card at the front desk as well.

If you see anything else, let me know.

Meijer Easter Egg-citement Event!

It's Easter Egg-citement time at Meijer! Wondering what it is? I was when I first saw it on the checkout screen while shopping at Meijer.

Here's the scoop... Now through Easter Sunday, a funny little bunny will be hiding eggs all over Meijer.com. Simply follow his clues, find the egg and crack open and eggs-clusive coupon or promo code for purchases online or at their stores. Play every day as discounts only last for 2-3 days at a time. Join in on the hunt here.

Now for the egg-citing news, Meijer has offered my readers a sneak peek at all of the March promo codes. That's right, you and anyone you share this with will know before it's announced on Meijer.com. You can go here and check out the online promo codes as well as which in-store coupons are being released.

Have you signed up for the Home Depot’s Free Do It Yourself Workshop yet? The next workshop is scheduled for Thursday, March 26, 2009 from 7:00pm - 8:30pm! What a way to save money - learn to do-it-yourself!

Weigh In Wednesday - 3/18/09

Last week I told you I was living the weight loss roller coaster. With all the ups and actually more downs than ups, I decided to join Weight Watchers. I had followed (without meetings) the program back in 2007 from January - March. I had lost 30 lbs! Yes, 30 lbs and I felt great! Since that time, I've gained it back plus some. I decided to give it another try but this time I'm attending the meetings. Not only have I been held accountable for my weight loss, I've met some wonderful ladies.

This week I lost 1.0 pounds according to my scale (1.2 lbs at WW). I still have .2 lbs that I had gained before I'm back at my starting point. I'm going to add my WW information under my yearly goal information at the bottom. One thing that I still need to work on is working out. Now that the weather is getting nicer, I've found that I spend more time outside playing with the kids but that's about it. I have a treadmill in my family room and a YMCA membership that's yelling at me to use them. I think I'm going to make some adjustments to our schedule to fit them in.

One thing that I learned this week is that physical activity doesn't necessarily increase appetite. Exercise is an emotional challenge and after emotional challenges we're conditioned to look for rewards. Yep, there are people out there that will eat as a reward. Drink liquids first to see if that will satisfy you. If not, try a healthy snack like fruit.

There are times that we feed ourselves as rewards but we also celebrate by eating. We go out to dinner to celebrate birthdays, anniversaries and other events. As we discussed today, you need to be in control of your emotions and don't feed it! Find a way to distract yourself - with a walk, exercise, stretching, knitting, or even reading a book but don't head to the kitchen. It's really not going to make you feel better except for the few minutes right after you feed the emotion. This is one area that I really lack in...I will eat because I'm bored. So, today I've made a list of 25 things I can do when I get the "I must eat because I'm bored" feeling. We'll see if it helps.

My goal this week is to drop 1.2 pounds and workout for at least 30 minutes 4 days this week. I'm also continuing to document my food intake and points. Would it help you in finding WW friendly choice if I go back to posting on here? I did it for quite a while last year and have been considering adding it back.

How did you do this week? What challenges are you facing? Are you seeing that you are more active now that the temperatures are warming up?

Goal 12/31/09	56.2
2009 Weight Loss-to-date	.2

Weight Watcher Weight Loss

Goal #1	5
Weight Loss (since 3/11/09)	-1.2

Weight Watcher Free Registration Extended until March 21, 2009

Free registration (in participating areas) for Weight Watchers has been extended until March 21, 2009! You can experience a meeting for free. Not sure if it's for you, give it a try for free. If you like it, remember to register before March 21, 2009 to receive free registration (in participating areas).

Free Redbox Code for 3/18/09

It's March Movie Madness at Redbox. There will be a free code every Wednesday in March. Rent a free movie from your local Redbox kiosk using code: GTL456. This code is good for today only. Using the code is very easy. You can also find free codes at Inside Redbox.

Freebies Found, Freebies Shared

Grate Chef Grill Wipes sample

Astroglide Personal Lubricant sample

Betty Crocker Warm Delights sample

Playtex Gentle Glide sample (usually includes a coupon)

Caress Evenly Gorgeous Body Wash sample

Free Tote from Vix Swimwear

Wildflower seeds from Bentley Seeds (GA only)

OneTouch UltraMini Meter

Source of Life Cup and sample

Arthritis Today Supplement & Vitamin Guide

Bread Breakthrough Recipe Book

Diabetes Value Pack

GoodNites Boxers sample

2009 Betty Crocker Recipe Calendar

Free discount drug card

Yappy Treat sample


Get a free sample (non-medicated) and $7 coupon for Nicoderm CQ with SmartControl

Acuvue 1 Day Moist Free Trial Pair

Acuvue Colors Free Trial Pair

Quality Health Spring Slim Down samples

Sign up for Skinny and the City to receive free daily emails with exclusive tips that you won't find on the site or anywhere online.

Free Tempur-pedic information kit with DVD

Join Pillsbury for Spring Recipes and coupon savings.

Join Eat Better America to receive $10 in coupon savings.

Sign up for Dinner Made Easy newsletter to receive a free $10 coupon book.

Join Diet Bug today. It's an online weight loss support site and community for women only.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Magazines: Woman's Day, Forbes Investor's Guide, Total Landscape Care, Heritage Magazine, Redbook, OR Nurse 2009, Bridal Guide, Car And Driver, American Baby, Town & Country, MET-RX, Automotive News, Elle, Remedy Life, Transportation and Logistics, Modern Woodworking,
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Coupons:
$5.00 Halo Coupon

$5.00 Smokey Bones Coupon

Hardee's Free Cinnamon Raisin Biscuit w/breakfast combo purchase

$3.00 Johnson & Johnson coupon

$7.00 in Pledge coupons

Buy 1 Windex Outdoor All-in-One Starter Kit, Get Free Refill

$1.00 off Kraft Mac & Cheese

$10.00 off Men's Rogaine

Event: 50th Birthday Party for Little People - Saturday, March 21, 2009 @ Toys R Us

Join Toys R Us in celebrating the 50th Birthday Party for Fisher Price Little People. The event will take place on Saturday, March 21, 2009 from Noon - 2:00 PM. There will be story time every half an hour, coloring fun, and free Little People DVDs (while supplies last). Click here to find a location near you.

They even have Fisher Price Little People Retro Sets on salve this week for $12.99.

February Challenge Results

I'm a little behind on posting. I'm trying to play catch-up.

How did you do with the February Challenge? I saved $37.61 in change! As I had stated in my original post, I am a change saver most of the time. I hate to spend change.

Now that the money has been counted, rolled and converted to dollar bills, it was time to decide what to purchase. The purchase was to be something that will save us money. Since we already have many items that do that for us, I had decided to get the Energy Smart light bulbs and check the price of a new shower head that uses less water.

In the end, I picked up 2 packs of Sylvania 11-watt Compact Fluorescent Bulbs. With three bulbs in each pack, I had enough of that wattage. So, I picked up 2 packs of the Sylvania 20-watt Compact Fluorescent Bulbs. That used up all the money that I had saved during the February Challenge. I still need to purchase 2 - 3-way Compact Fluorescent Bulbs at some point.

Since purchasing these items, I have found that they put off more light that the older bulbs we were using. It's helped to eliminating turing on multiple lights in a room. We'll see if it really saves us on the energy bill.

Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Here's the recipe for Chicken Fried Rice that's not quite as fattening as your favorite Chinese restaurant. If I calculated correctly, it's approximately 6-7 points.

Makes 2 servings

• 1 pkg Birds Eye Steamfresh Chicken Flavored Rice
  
• 1/4 cup Egg Beaters
  
• 2-4 tbsp soy sauce
  

1. Cook rice according to package (approx. 3 1/2 - 4 1/2 minutes)
2. Place soy sauce in frying pan over medium heat. Add egg.
   
3. Cook until eggs are done. Break into pieces as you cook it.
   
4. Remove rice from microwave and pour into serving bowl. Add egg and mix.
   
5. Serve.

Events: Pottery Barn Kids - Free Decorating Series Classes - Saturday, March 21, 2009

Participating Pottery Barn Kids stores will be hosting two classes this weekend. The classes are free; however, you must RSVP.

Transitioning from Nursery to Toddler Room from 10:00 am - 11:00am on Saturday, March 21, 2009
This class will discuss timing, tips for easing the transition and the necessary items to transition from a nursery to a "big kid" room.

Arby's: FREE Roast Burger with any Pepsi Drink Purchase

Still haven't tried the new Arby's Roast Burger? Get a FREE Arby's Roast Burger when you purchase any Pepsi drink with this coupon. Coupon is good through March 20, 2009. Click here to find an Arby's location near you.

IKEA: Seize The Day Sale and Free Breakfast - Friday, March 20-Sunday, March 22, 2009

IKEA is having three day sale offers with free breakfast valid Friday, March 20th - Sunday, March 22nd, 2009 only until 10:30 am. One small breakfast (99 cents) and one cup of coffee (99 cents) is included in the free breakfast.

Three day sale offer:
INGOLF bar Stool $19.99 each

Sale offers Saturday only:
Droppar jar w/lid $0.99 each

Sale offer Sunday only:
IKEA 365+ 11qt stockpot w/lid $9.99

Click here for more information.

Recipe: Sesame Chicken

Here's the recipe for Sesame Chicken that's not quite as fattening as your favorite Chinese restaurant. If I calculated correctly, it's approximately 5-6 points.

Makes 4 servings.

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts halves
  
• 3 tbsp sesame seeds
  
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
  
• 1/4 tsp salt
  
• 1/4 tsp pepper
  
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. Coat 2-qt baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
3. Place EVOO and sesame seeds in bowl. Microwave for 1-2 minutes (until slightly brown).
   
4. Place soy sauce in separate bowl. Add chicken, coating it in soy sauce. Discard remaining soy sauce.
   
5. In resealable plastic bag, add sesame seeds, salt & pepper. Shake to mix.
   
6. Add chicken to plastic bag and shake to coat.
7. Place chicken in prepared 2-qt baking dish.
8. Bake 20-25 minutes
   
9. Remove from oven, serve.

Menu Plan Monday - 3/16/2009

I'm glad to say that we finally ate from our menu every night. I had also left open a night for carry-out which usually occurs Friday or Saturday. We ended up eating in every night except Monday for our son's birthday (as planned). It was great!

This week my fiance' is out of town. I really hate to cook when he's not at home. So, this is the time the kids really get to pick what's for dinner rather than just one night during the week. It looks like it will be a chicken week.

Here's my menu plan:
1. Chicken nuggets, fries, pineapple slices

2. Turkey Stuffed Peppers
Note: These were REALLY good. I was surprised how well they went over. I have the pickiest of kids and they ate it (well, minus the pepper). I had one serving (1/2 pepper) and it was REALLY filling).
*I did make a few substitutes: no garlic or cilantro and I used diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce (I'm not a fan of tomato sauce.)

3. Sesame Chicken & Chicken Fried Rice
4. Chicken Patties, Mashed Potatoes, Salad
5. Homemade Beef Burritos or Homemade Pizza (we had a change in plans for this weekend)

UPDATE: When I put the menu together earlier in the week, I forgot that I had to take my oldest son to his grandparents on Friday night. The kids also have a school carnival that night. It will be a late night. It will either be homemade beef burritos, homemade pizza or a "You find it, You eat it" kind of night.

To see more menu plans, visit Menu Plan Monday @ $5 Dinners this week.

Rite Aid: Free After Rebate & Other Deals - Week of 3/15/09

Here's the deals that I saw at Rite Aid this week. You can see the full ad here. Don't forget about the $5/$25 coupon.

Hershey's Chocolate Bliss B1G1
-$1.00/1 3-1-09 SS (2)
Final Price: Varies (approx. $2.39/2)

Johnson & Johnson Band-Aid Bandages or 1" First Aid Adhesive $2.99
-$1.00/1 2-8-09 SS
-$1.00 SCR
Final Price: $0.99

Herbal Essence Shampoo, Conditioner or Stylers $2.99
-$1.00/1 3-15-09 P&G or $3.00/2 2-8-09 P&G
Final Price: $1.99 or $2.98/2

Samy iStyle Spray, Mousse, Wax or Glue $4.99
-$2.25/1 Kroger Mailer (if you still have coupon)
-$4.99 SCR
Final Price: FREE (possible overage)

Nexxus Shampoo, Conditioner or Stylers - Spend $15, $7 SCR

Easter M&M B1G1
-$1.00/2 3-1-09 RP
Final Price: Varies (approx. $2.29/2)

Secret Flawless Anti-Perspirant/Deodorant $3.99
-$2.00/1 2-22-09 SS or $1.00/1 3-15-09 P&G
-$2.00 SCR
Final Price: FREE or $0.99

Colgate Total Advanced Toothpaste $1.74
-$1.00/1 ALL You Magazine (March & April) or $0.75/1 3-15-09 SS
Final Price: $0.74 or $0.99

Lexar 1GB Memory Card or USB Drive $7.99
-$5.00 SCR
Final Price: $2.99

O-Cel-O Sponges - 4pk $0.99
-$1.00/2 or $0.75/2 3-8-09 RP
Final Price: $.98/2 or $1.23/2

Scotch Brite Scrub Sponge $0.99
-$1.00/2 or $0.75/2 3-8-09 RP
Final Price: $.98/2 or $1.23/2

Wet Ones $1.99
-$0.75/1 2-8-09 SS or printable
Final Price: $1.24

Meow Mix $3.99
-$1.00/1 3-1-09 RP
Final Price: $2.99

Bumble Bee Premium Pouch Tuna $1.25
-$0.55/1 2-22-09 SS
Final Price: $0.70

Whitman's Sugar Free Bagged Candy $1.50
-B1G1 11-2-08 SS
Final Price: $1.50/2

Whitman's Weight Watchers Bagged Candy $1.50
-B2G1 9-7-08 SS
Final Price: $3.00/3

Sign up for MyRiteAid and get a $5/$25 coupon.